Leaders in Education
Educational Technology Innovator
Lakota is one of just three school districts worldwide to earn the “2020 Distinguished District Award” from the International Society for Technology in Education (ISTE).
The award recognizes districts that are moving the needle in big ways. According to ISTE, these districts demonstrate effectiveness and innovation in the application of educational technology. They ensure equitable, accessible and appropriate technology use for all students, aimed at improving learner outcomes and increasing learning opportunities. Finally, they exhibit a progressive mindset when it comes to challenges in education and embrace new ideas and act on them.
ISTE serves more than 200,000 educators and education leaders around the world, providing resources and support to organizations that are committed to using technology to overcome challenges in education.
Lakota’s partnership with ISTE has grown over the last few years and the district became one of just eight districts worldwide to pilot ISTE’s “District Partnership” program during the 2018-2019 school year. A cohort of Lakota teachers also participated in ISTE’s first “Educator Certification Program,” equipping them with industry-recognized strategies and resources to transform learning through technology. Since then, over 65 total Lakota educators have participated in the certification program.
League of Innovative Schools Member
Lakota Schools is one of the 125 forward-thinking public school districts in the Digital Promise League of Innovative Schools, a national coalition across 35 states representing more than 3.8 million students. Through its membership in the League of Innovative Schools, Lakota has been very involved in the Innovation Portfolio program.
Innovation Portfolios is a new storytelling platform where school districts can widely share ideas, programs, and implementation practices they’ve designed, supported, and grown in their districts. Lakota’s Innovation Portfolio highlights the district’s work to empower teachers and students through innovative approaches to education including reimagining the high school experience.