Tuesday, February 24th was a day a century in the making for Oak Grove.
In 1906, Oak Grove was first formed as Oak Grove Lutheran Ladies Seminary, based in Christian values and intended to serve primarily Norwegian students. The school would prepare girls from rural areas for service in the home, church and community at a time and place where high schools were not already available.
Twenty years later, the school would also open to boys. At the same time, the school became accredited. Now, in 2026, it is the longest-accredited private school in North and South Dakota.
Grovers celebrated the milestone with a special chapel. School officials were presented with a plaque by Cognia, the accrediting agency Oak Grove holds membership with.
Student Body President Aspyn Kjos also spoke at the chapel, remarking on Oak Grove’s long legacy and her gratitude to the faculty and staff who have made it possible. Her father attended the school in the 90s, making her a second generation Grover.
“Knowing that he went here and that Oak Grove was here way before him and knowing how he loved Oak Grove so much that he wanted me to go to this place, shows how trustworthy and strong our education truly is,” said Kjos in an interview with KVRR.
Today, Cognia membership includes approximately 500 schools in North Dakota.
Kjos with representatives from Cognia
Bishop Tessa Moon Leiseth offers a blessing
Oak Grove Presidents: Sher Thomsen, (’26 – Present) Jerry Gorden (’73 – ’88), Bob Otterson, (’22 – ’25)
Dr. Marilyn Guy (’09 – ’11)
The Concert Choir performs at the chapel celebration
