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Every month, Lakota Local Schools will shine the spotlight on some of the District's most precious gems - the teachers, administrators and support staff who are a cut above the rest. At any time throughout the year, staff, parents, students and community members are invited to nominate Lakota staff who bring a sparkle to our schools. Nominate a staff member for the inaugural group of "Lakota Gems" before Oct. 31.
In preparation for our community’s 26th annual celebration of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Day, all Lakota students in grades K-12 are invited to participate in a contest that challenges students to reflect on one of the activist's lesser known speeches, sermons or readings.
Entries are due Nov. 26. Winners will share their entries with the public as part of the Jan. 20 community celebration.
The Lakota Board of Education’s 17th annual district-wide food drive for Reach Out Lakota will run Sept. 30 through Oct. 11. In true “WE are Lakota” fashion, the district is challenging families, staff and community members (who are able) to “stuff the bus” with canned goods and other non-perishable items most needed by the primary food and clothing pantry for families in West Chester and Liberty townships. Donations can be dropped off at any Lakota school or Central Office.
Last year, Lakota filled nearly three school buses. But the need in 2024 is even greater. On average, Reach Out Lakota’s pantry visits are 31% higher than the prior year!
MISSION STATEMENT
Everything WE do is designed to provide a future-ready, student-centered learning experience for every single child.
We are
Personalized
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At Lakota, personalized learning is tailoring the instructional environment to address the individual needs, skills and interests of the whole child, while developing a deep, personal connection to maximize student ownership of learning. Our students grow academically, socially, emotionally and culturally, while learning critical life skills. We provide a safe and secure environment in which our students can build character and develop their unique strengths as a foundation for their future success.
Action Plan
- Clearly articulate and strengthen Lakota personalized learning
- Improve structures and systems to align to the vision for personalized learning
- Develop a Portrait of a Graduate to clearly identify the skills and competencies necessary for the future success of each studentImplement multi-tiered systems of support to align services targeted to the needs of the whole child
- Ensure success and continued expansion of mental health and wellness initiatives district wide
- Establish professional development and training plans for all tiers of student support
We are
Personalized
We are
Future Ready
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We are
Future Ready
Through innovative and engaging learning, enhanced with leading edge technology, Lakota maximizes student readiness for the four Es: Employment, Enrollment in higher education, Enlistment in the military and Entrepreneurship.
Action Plan
- Design instruction and technology systems to pilot innovative models and programs aligned with the Portrait of a Lakota Graduate
- Support personalized learning with the appropriate student technology devices and tools
- Continuing to develop instructional strategies to include STEAM2 and project-based learning
- Develop cutting edge pathways in secondary curriculum to prepare each student for future success
- Develop real-world learning opportunities to enhance learning and expand student internships
- Create break-through business partnerships that dramatically enhance enrollment, enlistment, employment and entrepreneurship
- Create a comprehensive facilities plan that supports student needs and financial stability
- Innovate spaces that encourage personalized, project-based and real-world learning
We are
Fiscally Responsible
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We are
Fiscally Responsible
As we continue to expand our learning opportunities to prepare our students to successfully meet the demands of life after graduation, we are committed to aligning our resources to Lakota’s educational priorities while ensuring financial stability.
Action Plan
- Be good stewards of our residents’ tax dollars by operating a strategically aligned and efficient budget, as fiscal responsibility is a top priority for the District
- Monitor spending and re-prioritize dollars to enhance personalized student learning
- Continue to put the majority of our resources toward instruction, pupil support and instructional support
- In FY 18, this amounted to 68% of Lakota’s general fund spending
- Continue to provide financial transparency to our community through annual publications like the Annual Comprehensive Financial Report and Financial Prospectus
We are
In this Together
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We are
In this Together
At Lakota, we embrace a strong partnership with our stakeholders - students, staff, parents and community members – to meet high expectations and encourage teamwork for student success.
Action Plan
- Incorporate and encourage student and staff voice into the Lakota learning experience
- Continue developing non-traditional programs and opportunities to inspire parents and community members to take an active role in shaping the Lakota experience
- Broaden organizational capacity through the continued development of district leadership opportunities and team structure
- Develop personalized professional growth strategy aligned with district priorities for all staff
- Continue transparency and strengthen two-way communication with all stakeholders
- Lead a dynamic culture across the District, embracing diversity and inclusion for all
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Points of
Pride
Culturally Diverse:
With 42% of students celebrating their multicultural backgrounds, Lakota provides a culturally-diverse experience where respect and inclusion are taught as core values.
Fiscally Responsible:
Fewer than 5% of all entities that are audited annually earn the "Auditor of State Award with Distinction" - and Lakota has received the honor 10 years in a row.
1:1 Technology:
Through Lakota's WE are Empowered initiative, all students in grades K-12 have access to their own Chromebook for daily learning.
Dogs of Lakota:
Lakota's pack of ten therapy dogs are wagging their tails around the district, providing therapy and emotional support to even our youngest learners.
The 4Es:
We believe in preparing every student for success after graduation in one of the 4Es: Enrollment in higher education; Enlistment in military service; Employment as a contributing member of our community; or Entrepreneurship.