What's New

East, West Go Orange and Gold for Dragonfly, Raise More Than $10K

02/20/2019

The student sections at two crosstown basketball games on Jan. 25 may have been painted two different colors, but their mission was the same.

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Nominations Sought for Barb Bossu Volunteer Spirit Awards

02/20/2019

Nominations are being accepted now through March 22 for 2019 Barb Bossu Volunteer Spirit awards.

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Mark Your Calendars for Upcoming Theater Productions

02/19/2019

It’s time to mark your calendars to see Lakota’s talented students in their upcoming theater productions. This year’s spring lineup includes something for everyone.

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Student Videos Welcome Sixth-Graders to Ridge

02/15/2019

The transition from sixth to seventh grade can be daunting. Ridge Junior School teacher Alexandra Cook tasked her students to help ease the way. Cook used the video production unit in her Media Design and Communications class as an opportunity to get her students involved. The project: create a video to welcome incoming seventh graders to Ridge.

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Plains Puts Digital Spin on Traditional Language Arts Unit

02/15/2019

A digital spin on a traditional language arts unit got Plains Junior School students outside of the four walls of their classroom in more ways than one.

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Latest Lakota Shout Outs

02/14/2019

So many great things are going on around Lakota. Read about the latest Shout Outs that highlight our talented artists, musicians and athletes.

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Students Tour the World With Multicultural Events

02/14/2019

Students at Cherokee Elementary and Creekside Early Childhood schools went on a world tour recently. Events at both schools were an opportunity to celebrate the different heritages of their students and learn about different cultures.

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Spontaneous Food Drive a Glimpse into LODI's Year-Long Efforts

02/13/2019

Lakota schools may have been closed last Friday for inclement weather, but Central Office was bustling with volunteers - and mounds of canned goods. After three consecutive days of no school, including school-provided breakfasts and lunches, Lakota’s Outreach Diversity and Inclusion (LODI) department organized a spontaneous food drive to provide emergency relief to 55 area families. Using staff email and the viral power of social media, the district put out a call for support and within just two hours, the front lobby at Central Office was overflowing with donations.

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New High School Schedule Adds Seventh Bell, Gives Students More Flexibility

02/12/2019

More opportunities for Lakota high school students is on the horizon. As registration season opened at the end of January, the district announced expanded options for its seventh class period.

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WE are Pushing Boundaries: Winter 2019 Community Newsletter

02/05/2019

Several times a year, Lakota produces a community newsletter to help parents and residents stay informed about important district-wide news and updates. The piece is mailed to every household and business in West Chester Township and Liberty Township for just 16 cents per piece. The winter 2019 edition, titled "WE are Pushing Boundaries", was mailed to all residents this week. If you do not receive a copy at your home or if you need additional copies, please visit Lakota’s Central Office or any school’s main office.

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Superintendent to Deliver State of the Schools March 13

02/04/2019

Superintendent Matthew Miller will deliver the district’s second annual “State of the Schools” address on March 13. The event is open to the entire community.

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Mobile Dentist to Visit Lakota Elementary, ECS Schools

02/04/2019

Last week, 21 Freedom Elementary students got a full dental exam with x-rays -- without having to leave school. Lakota’s new partnership with the Primary Health Solutions Mobile Dental Program made it possible.

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2019-2020 Kindergarten Registration Begins March 1

02/01/2019

Open registration for Lakota’s all-day kindergarten program will begin on March 1 and run through April 5. All students are eligible for the all-day kindergarten option, with the option to enroll in the half-day program, if desired.

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Creekside Economics Unit Teaches the Value of Hard-Earned Dollar

02/01/2019

A lot of lessons were wrapped up in a recent economics unit that tasked Creekside ECS second-graders with just one homework assignment over winter break: household chores.

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Q&A with Lakota's Second Career Educators

01/31/2019

For these five Lakota educators, K-12 education was a second or third stop in their career paths. But in the end, the decision to push their own professional boundaries has landed them in a place where they were meant to be.

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Lakota Students Big Winners in Regional Scholastic Art & Writing Contest

01/31/2019

Lakota high school students were big winners in the Regional Scholastic Art & Writing Awards with 99 students amassing 187 individual awards. “I’m not quite sure but these could be record-breaking results,” said West Visual Arts Teacher Stephanie Gauer.

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Regional Bus Tour Stops at East to Show Student Voice in Action

01/30/2019

Lakota East High School was one of just four stops on a bus tour designed to showcase innovative learning spaces around the Greater Cincinnati region. Hosted by the Hamilton County Educational Service Center (HCESC), the tour gave 55 local educators and students an inside look at each school’s journey to redesigning their spaces and leading change.

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Inaugural 'WE are Lakota Honor Choir' Performs for the Community

01/29/2019

With the return of daily specials this school year for grades K-6 has come yet another opportunity for sixth-graders to take their music skills to the next level. “Music is an art form that needs to be performed,” explained Hopewell Junior School choir teacher Jennifer Akers. “Yet most of our students come to us in seventh grade with no concept of what an evening choir performance looks like."

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Playtime is More than Meets the Eye at Wyandot ECS

01/28/2019

For the kindergarten team at Wyandot Early Childhood School, right up there with reading, writing and math is open playtime - which is exactly why they’ve created something this year called “Play Workshop.”

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Students Share Words of Wisdom at 20th Annual MLK Day Program

01/25/2019

“The common ground is that we are all Americans. The human pyramid is a reminder that we are one. It doesn’t matter what you look like. You are an important piece of the pyramid. If one falls, we all fall, but if we stand strong together, we can do anything together.” These were the words of Wyandot Early Childhood School first-grader Nicci Back, as she explained her winning painting in this year’s Martin Luther King Jr. student writing and art contest.

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Student Reimagines, Transforms West Freshman Innovation Hub

01/24/2019

Lakota West freshman Lora Broz did more than just reimagine her school’s media center, recently turned Innovation Hub. She made her vision a reality, rolling out the red carpet for her classmates’ return from winter break and just in time for the school’s rollout of Chromebooks to every student.

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West Chester Hospital Medical Series Takes Off at East, West

01/24/2019

his week’s spotlight on the rehab services industry blazed the trail for a first-ever 10-week medical speaker series that UC Health West Chester Hospital is hosting at both Lakota East and Lakota West high schools.

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Indy Third-Graders Explore Passions with Personal Learning Projects

01/23/2019

Did you know that human DNA is 50 percent identical to the DNA of bananas? Third grade students at Independence Elementary School learned interesting facts like this and more while researching their Personal Learning Projects (PLP).

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One-to-One Initiative Launches at High Schools, Freshman Campuses

01/15/2019

Students at the freshman buildings and high schools returned from winter break only to receive one more present. Nearly 4,000 district-owned Chromebooks were distributed to students in grades nine-through-eleven as part of Lakota’s WE are Empowered initiative.

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Lakota Launches into 2019: Here WE Go Social Media Contest

01/04/2019

Lakota is launching into 2019 and has a lot to look forward to in the new year! We'd love to hear from the Lakota community about what you are trying new this year or what you are looking forward to in 2019.

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Lakota District, Five Schools Receive ODE's Momentum Award

01/03/2019

Lakota Local Schools, including five individual schools within the district, has received the Ohio Department of Education’s Momentum Award for 2018. Additionally, two schools received the All A Award.

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East, West Collaborate to Expand ASL Holiday Tradition

12/28/2018

Since 1993, Lakota West American Sign Language teacher Gwen Trujillo has been challenging her ASL students to learn and sign a holiday song from start to finish for their peers. But a new twist introduced this year by ASL teachers Katie Nicol and Jessica Frye transformed the tradition into a learning experience for ASL students at all levels.

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West Chester Hospital Hosts High School Medical Speaker Series

12/21/2018

Both Lakota East and Lakota West high schools are partnering with UC Health West Chester Hospital to bring students a 10-week medical speaker series that kicks of Jan. 9.

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December Video Update: A Look Around Lakota

12/21/2018

Please enjoy our next installment of A Look Around Lakota. This month's edition takes you into our schools to highlight some of the many happenings in our district, including the new strategic plan, the Lakota Cyber Academy, and service learning.

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East's Student Voice Efforts Highlighted on National Stage

12/21/2018

Empowering student voice is something in which schools in Lakota excel. Just ask Dr. Blaine Alexander from the Arkansas Leadership Academy. Recently, administrators, teachers and students who are passionate about empowering student voice gathered at the University of Arkansas to participate in the Student Voice Institute.

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Lakota's Youngest and Oldest Students Build Special Bonds

12/20/2018

Liberty ECS second-grader Isaiah Givens greets Assistant Principal Caryn Gross each day with a hug and a countdown that goes something like this: “Seven more days until Big PAWS! I wish we had it every single day!”

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Jan. 21: Martin Luther King Jr. Day Community Celebration

12/19/2018

The entire West Chester Liberty community is invited to the 20th annual celebration of Martin Luther King, Jr. on Monday, Jan. 21. The March for Unity will begin at 10:30 a.m. at Union Centre’s Clock Tower and conclude at Lakota West, where the program, beginning at 11:15 a.m., will lead into a free lunch donated by local restaurants.

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Students Lead Way in Giving Back this Holiday Season

12/18/2018

Learning through service is a year-round occurrence in Lakota classrooms. But during the holiday season, it takes a front row seat in many of our schools.

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Lakota School Board Approves New Strategic Plan

12/17/2018

At its Dec. 10 meeting, the Lakota Board of Education unanimously approved a new three-year strategic plan for the district. “This new strategic plan has been designed to be a blueprint for Lakota’s future,” said Superintendent Matthew Miller. “It reflects where we are now and where we want to go.”

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2019-2020 Preschool Registration Open through Jan. 31

12/12/2018

The registration application for Lakota's tuition-based preschool program is now available and will run Jan. 3 through Jan. 31. An informational meeting for parents will be held on Jan. 23 at Liberty Early Childhood School at 6 p.m. in the gymnasium.

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Save the Date, Exhibit at Lakota Summer Fun Fair March 4 & 6

12/11/2018

Does your business or organization offer a summer program or activity that’s perfect for kids? Are you looking for ways to keep your kids active this summer? Lakota Local Schools will partner with more than 100 local businesses and organizations to host its seventh annual Summer Fun Fair this March 4 and 6. The event features local organizations with programs and services to keep students in grades K-12 active this summer. Vendors range from summer camps, learning centers and childcare facilities to athletic leagues, art programs and local parks and recreation.

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Adena Has High Hopes for New Greenhouse Learning Space

12/07/2018

Adena Elementary has big plans for a new greenhouse just gifted to the school by Eagle Scout hopeful and Lakota West Freshman Matthew Hollowell.

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East Teacher's Passion Project Delivers Engineering, Technology Career Day

12/06/2018

It’s not every day that the school gymnasium doubles as a holding place for robots, augmented reality, a topographical sand pit, model bridges and other representations of career paths marked by technology and engineering skills. But on Nov. 16, this was the scene at Lakota East High School as about 15 local businesses put their best work on display.

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Lakota Shout Outs: Nov. 30

12/05/2018

The latest Lakota Shout Outs go to the Lakota East Marching Band, some Women of Excellence with Lakota ties, and a Lakota West student photographer who won the grand prize in a local contest. Congratulations to all!

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ECS Students Start the Day Calm, Focused and Ready for Learning

12/04/2018

Every single day, over 600 Wyandot students start their morning calm and focused, ready for learning. Many other Lakota early childhood students begin their school day the same way. It’s because of a program called Mindful Music Moments.

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'Above the Line' Volunteers Build Special Relationships

12/04/2018

Each day from 10:45 to 11:50 a.m., you’ll see Plains Junior students building special relationships by working together on academic activities, getting some exercise in the gym and moving through the lunch line side-by-side.

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#LakotaGivesBack on Social Media

12/04/2018

This December, as we celebrate the season of giving as the ultimate example of what is encouraged in our schools all year long, help us highlight all the ways Lakota staff, students, parents and residents care for one another and give back to the community. Look back on the last year and help us recap the many acts of service that have happened all year long.

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Lakota to Launch New Cyber Security Academy

12/03/2018

Computer hackers beware! A new wave of cyber security analysts will be coming from Lakota Local Schools. Beginning in the fall of 2019, the new Lakota Cyber Academy program will launch for sophomores, juniors and seniors.

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Lakota Students Collaborate to Solve Real World Challenges

11/26/2018

Three school districts joined together with Butler Tech to put real-world learning into practice at an event known as Project Chaos. Approximately 100 students from Lakota, Loveland, Middletown and Butler Tech worked together to offer solutions on how best to solve the problem of making transportation available to everyone.

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Student-Athletes Recognized During Signing Events

11/21/2018

Lakota East and West Athletic Departments hosted their first college athletic signing events of the year on Nov. 14, the first day of the NCAA National Letter of Intent signing period for fall sports (except football). Congratulations to these student-athletes who signed early commitments to continue their academic and athletic careers at the collegiate level.

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#LakotaGivesThanks on Social Media

11/20/2018

As we count down the days to Thanksgiving break, Lakota is asking staff, students, parents and residents to help us count all the ways we are blessed as a school community. Looking back at the last year, who or what gives you a good reason to be thankful for your Lakota experience?

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Sport Stacking at Shawnee, Hopewell Exercises Brains & Bodies

11/20/2018

In addition to being part of a worldwide event, students at Shawnee and Hopewell early childhood schools got to exercise both their bodies and their brains in gym class last week.

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November Video Update: A Look Around Lakota

11/20/2018

Please enjoy this next edition of "A Look Around Lakota." In this month's video update, Superintendent Matthew Miller is joined by Treasurer Jenni Logan to provide a special update about Lakota's recent five-year financial forecast. Plus, see more district-wide highlights from November!

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#GivingTuesday Kicks Off Year-End #GiveLakota Campaign

11/19/2018

The Community Foundation of West Chester Liberty, in partnership with Lakota Local Schools, invites the community to tranform #Giving Tuesday into #GiveLakota this Nov. 27, in support of The Lakota Schools Foundation.

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Lakota Students & Staff Present, Perform at State Conference

11/19/2018

Lakota Local Schools was well represented at the Ohio School Boards Association Capital Conference. The annual event, held in Columbus, includes three days of in-depth learning for school administrators and board members from across the state.

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New Student Groups Take Action this Veteran's Day

11/16/2018

Veteran’s Day gave two new student groups at the high school an opportunity to shine, but most importantly, do what they set out to do this school year: honor our local veterans. Although the recent Tri-State Honor Flight brought the Patriotic Firebirds and East Veterans Network together in a unique way last month, both groups are forging their own path. Even just a few months after their inception, both have several impactful programs underway, not to mention even bigger plans for the future.

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New Netflix Series Features Plains Junior Family

11/16/2018

Several Plains Junior seventh-graders will make their first television appearance on a Netflix documentary series called “Dogs” premiering on Nov. 16. Although not the focus, their parts support an emotional story about Plains Junior seventh-grader Corrine Gogolewski and her family. They were followed by a production crew for an entire month last fall while she and her twin sister, Carly, were sixth-graders at Endeavor Elementary. They follow the family’s journey through receiving, training and welcoming Corinne’s service dog, Rory, into their family.

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Cherokee Student One of Only Six Tri-State "Heroes of Character"

11/13/2018

The standing ovation Cherokee Elementary sixth-grader Landyn Bomar received from a gymnasium full of his classmates last week demonstrated that his depth of his character went far deeper than the words expressed in a recent nomination letter from his former teacher, Todd Overbeck.

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Liberty Junior's 'Hawk's Choice' Offers Over 30 Learning Activities

11/12/2018

Advisory period at Liberty Junior School looked a little different last week. Encouraging teacher voice, student voice and student choice were all a part of creating an event called Hawk’s Choice.

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Lakota East's 4E Day 'Not Your Grandma's Career Day'

11/08/2018

For the first time, Lakota East dedicated an entire afternoon to encouraging students to explore the full range of post-graduation options available to them. Called “4E Day,” the event tapped into 70-plus local professionals representing career paths involving one or more of the 4Es Lakota promotes to all students: employment, enrollment, enlistment and entrepreneurship.

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Cherokee Sixth-Grader Youngest of Only Six Tri-State “Heroes of Character”

11/07/2018

Cherokee Elementary sixth-grader Landyn Bomar was among just six students in the Tri-State honored at the Oct. 25 Heroes of Character Celebration. Hosted by the Character Council, which serves Greater Cincinnati, Northern Kentucky and Southeast Indiana, the event honors youth and adults who consistently demonstrate outstanding character traits in their everyday lives. Landyn was the youngest recipient of all six student honorees.

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Over 200 Lakota Students Take Part in Honor Flight Tri-State

11/06/2018

Over 200 Lakota students honored 75 veterans as they participated in Honor Flight Tri-State’s last flight of the year on Oct. 23. The morning began bright and early for a group of about 20 Lakota West students, as they headed to CVG airport at 3:30 a.m. in order to welcome the veterans and their guardians to their flight. The event was organized by the school’s new club, Patriotic Firebirds. Advisor Kristin Henley explains that the purpose of the group “is to support Firebirds who have joined the military or who are in the process of joining the military, their families and all veterans.”

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Lakota Leads Crosstown Food Drive, but Three Communities Win

11/05/2018

The longstanding tradition behind Lakota’s annual food drive, hosted by the Lakota Board of Education, helped the district bring home a win in the inaugural match-up against neighboring school districts Mason and Middletown. But the real winners were all three communities that collectively brought in more than 53,000 items for their respective relief organizations.

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Nov. 17 CommUnity University: Understanding Gender-Expansive Youth

11/01/2018

Lakota’s new monthly learning series, Family & Parent CommUnity University in partnership with Miami University Voice of America, continues with a session focused on understanding the complexities of gender-expansive youth. In the spirit of love, curiosity and respect, Lakota parents, staff and residents are encouraged to attend Saturday, Nov. 17 from 8 a.m. to noon at Miami VOA Learning Center, located at 7847 VOA Park Drive.

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New Junior School Elective Explores Media and Communication

10/29/2018

Creativity and communication have Lakota’s junior school students thinking about media in a whole new way. Media Design and Communication, a new English elective, gives students the opportunity to explore communication through a wide variety of tools and media. Students are also challenged to apply media and communication to real world learning.

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Endeavor Turns Tradition Upside Down for Future-Ready Experience

10/24/2018

When the sixth grade teaching team at Endeavor Elementary was seeking a future-ready experience for their students, they looked no further than one of the school’s longest standing traditions - an annual field trip to Camp Kern.

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Welding Engineer Helps Connect the Dots on Industrial Revolutions

10/24/2018

Which invention had a bigger impact on our world - the steam boat or the light bulb, the telephone or the elevator, the 3D printer or the smartphone?

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Wyandot Students Partner with Canadian Second-Graders

10/23/2018

The world is getting a little smaller for Wyandot second-graders in Melissa Riehle’s class. That’s because they are participating in the 9th annual Global Read Aloud (GRA).

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October 2018 Video Update: A Look Around Lakota

10/23/2018

Please enjoy this next edition of "A Look Around Lakota." In this month's video update, Superintendent Matthew Miller shares just some of the highlights and happenings around Lakota in October.

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High Schools Kick Off Theater Season

10/23/2018

Lakota high schools are getting ready for their first theater productions of the school year. Get your tickets now to see our talented students present these top-notch plays: James and the Giant Peach, Jr. and Radium Girls.

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One-to-One Chromebook Pilot Expands to High Schools

10/22/2018

Lakota Local Schools is excited to announce the district is expanding its one-to-one (1:1) technology pilot to both Lakota East and Lakota West students in January.

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Lakota Offers 'E+R+O' Parent Training Oct. 25 & Nov. 8

10/19/2018

Has your son asked you to “press pause?” Have you heard your daughter say that something is “above the line?” Are you wondering what it all means? Lakota Local Schools is offering parents two opportunities to learn what E+R=O is all about and why we are teaching it district-wide.

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Liberty ECS Celebrates 90 Years

10/16/2018

Liberty Early Childhood School, in partnership with the Liberty Township Historical Society, celebrated the school’s 90th birthday on Sept. 16. The school welcomed past and present students, parents, teachers and residents to bear witness to the opening of a time capsule buried in 1976 following the building’s restoration.

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Students Become Archaeologists in Indy's Innovation Lab

10/15/2018

Fourth grade archaeologists in Susan Smith’s class took over the new Innovation Lab at Independence Elementary this week. They rotated between four hands-on stations using ingredients like cookie dough, bread and gummy candies to learn about trace fossils, molds and casts, and fossil creation.

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MLK Day Writing, Art Contest Encourages Students to 'Find a Common Ground'

10/12/2018

In preparation for our community’s 20th annual celebration of Martin Luther King, Jr. Day, all Lakota students are invited to participate in a contest that promotes self-reflection about diversity and inclusion in our community and nationwide.

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Oct. 20 CommUnity University Focuses on Mental Health

10/11/2018

Lakota’s new monthly learning series, Family & Parent CommUnity University in partnership with Miami University Voice of America, continues with a session focused on students’ mental and emotional health. Lakota parents, staff and residents are encouraged to attend Saturday, Oct. 20 from 8 a.m. to noon at Miami VOA.

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West's Fourth Annual Cultural Fair Has New Twist

10/10/2018

Students in the English Language Learners (ELL) program at Lakota West had an opportunity to share about their cultures and home countries at the school’s annual Cultural Fair. Guests were able to hear about what life is like in many different countries from 35 student presenters.

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Hopewell Junior Community Profits from Inaugural "Color Run"

10/09/2018

Who knew that combining colored corn starch, community and competition could result in more than $18,000? The final fundraising figure was a welcome surprise for the school and PTSO leaders behind Hopewell Junior School’s inaugural “Color Run” on Sept. 28.

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First High School Open Houses Welcome Future Families

10/08/2018

Lakota is welcoming future and prospective students to visit its two high schools on Saturday, Nov. 3, 2018 for the district’s first open house. “We are excited to invite both up-and-coming students and families who may be considering Lakota to visit our open houses,” said Superintendent Matthew Miller. “We are proud of the high quality, student-centered education we provide and want others to see what exactly that looks like.”

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Howl-o-ween Photo Contest Spotlights Best-Dressed Pets

10/03/2018

Pets are the second best-dressed to kids on Halloween - so we’re dedicating this month’s social media photo contest to them. Share your funniest, funkiest and most creative “Howl-o-ween” photos with the rest of the Lakota community.

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September 2018 Video Update: A Look Around Lakota

10/01/2018

Lakota Local Schools is proud to share this next edition of its monthly video update, "A Look Around Lakota." The September edition features just some of the latest highlights and happenings around Lakota.

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New Child Nutrition Website Offers Interactive Menus

09/28/2018

Lakota’s new and improved Child Nutrition website makes it easier than ever for parents to keep health and wellness top of mind. Now available from the district website, the new tool features interactive menus that allow visitors to view nutritional information just by scrolling over individual menu items, plus more health and wellness tips and resources.

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Lakota Issues 2017-18 Quality Profile

09/28/2018

Lakota Local Schools is proud to share with the community its 2017-2018 Quality Profile. This annual publication, mailed to every household and business in both West Chester and Liberty townships, is designed to give every Lakota resident a quick look at the major priorities and areas of focus driving our daily work.

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Ten Lakota Students Named Among National Merit Semifinalists

09/26/2018

Ten students from Lakota East and Lakota West high schools have earned positions as semifinalists in this year’s National Merit Scholarship Program, recognizing the nation’s most academically talented high school seniors.

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One-to-One Junior High Chromebook Pilot Underway

09/25/2018

To the delight of 2,579 Lakota students, the district’s one-to-one technology pilot is now up and running at all four junior schools. Over the course of four days, district-owned Chromebooks were distributed to eager students ready to start using their devices.

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Make a Difference and 'Stuff the Bus' for Reach Out Lakota!

09/24/2018

There’s another new twist to the annual district-wide food drive for Reach Out Lakota. “We have asked neighboring districts to join the cause with us,” said Lakota Superintendent Matthew Miller. “Lakota will go up against Mason City Schools and Middletown City Schools, with each district working to pack a school bus with the most canned goods and other needed items.” Each district’s final collection will go to a local relief organization serving their communities.

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Lakota Updating Alumni Directory Information

09/21/2018

In the coming weeks, Lakota alumni may be contacted by phone call, postcard and/or email to verify personal information for an upcoming alumni directory. Lakota is working with an outside firm called PCI to update alumni information for this directory and future alumni engagement efforts. Thank you for your assistance in helping us make sure our alumni data is as accurate and current as possible.

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Peachjar Partnership for Digital E-Flyers Improves School-to-Home Communication

09/19/2018

Lakota is committed to educational excellence, which includes ensuring that parents stay informed about important district- and community-sponsored activities and events that enhance their child’s life. In an effort to improve parent and community engagement, Lakota is now using Peachjar to send digital flyers directly to our families.

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2017-18 Report Card Shows Continued Growth in Key Areas

09/19/2018

The Ohio Department of Education recently released the state report card results for Ohio schools, including an overall letter grade for each district. Lakota Local Schools showed marked improvement in key areas, earning a final grade of ‘B’ by the State.

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Adena Resource Pantry Expanding to All Lakota Schools

09/14/2018

“Only when students’ most basic needs are met can we expect for them to learn and thrive at school,” said Angie Brown, Lakota’s parent and family engagement coordinator. It’s a simple concept that set a big idea into motion at Adena Elementary last school year. With the support of its community liaison and PTO, the school established a resource pantry that has since been stockpiled with hundreds of snacks, school supplies and personal hygiene items for students who need them throughout the day.

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Student Voice Transforms East Locker Bay

09/13/2018

It all began during a Lakota East Student Advisory Council meeting last school year. The 20-plus members of the group and East administration started discussing the idea of flexible classrooms as learning spaces and how to incorporate them at Lakota East.

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September Contest Encourages Social Media Video Shout-Outs

09/13/2018

To whom or what do you owe a super start to the new school year? This month’s social media contest encourages students, staff and parents to post a video shout-out recognizing that person or program that has made all the difference in helping start the 2018-19 school year off on a positive note.

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Limited-Time Back-to-School Promotion in Lakota's Online Spirit Wear Shop

09/10/2018

To celebrate the start of a new school year, Lakota is proud to offer the community reduced rates on select district apparel in its online spirit wear shop. This limited-time promotional offer ends Sept. 21.

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A New Learning Space for Junior Schools

09/10/2018

Students at all four of Lakota’s junior schools are discovering that their media centers have been reinvented. Innovation Hubs, previously known as media centers, provide a flexible space for teachers and students to collaborate, innovate and learn.

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Lakota Shout-Outs: August 24

08/31/2018

Here are the latest Lakota Shout-Outs including high school students earning a top ACT score and the American Legion recognizing several of our students.

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Lakota Ice Cream Social for New Families Sept. 15

08/31/2018

For families new to Lakota Schools this year, the district is offering an opportunity to meet other new families and get to know the Lakota community a little better. The Lakota Outreach Diversity and Inclusion (LODI) department, along with the West Chester Liberty Chamber Alliance’s Leadership 21 class of 2018, invites all new families to its annual ice cream social on Saturday, Sept. 15 from 1-3 p.m. The gathering will take place at Heritage Early Childhood School, located at 5052 Hamilton-Mason Road in Liberty Township.

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A Look Around Lakota Video Update: August 2018

08/31/2018

Please enjoy this back-to-school edition of "A Look Around Lakota." In this first edition of the new school year, Superintendent Matthew Miller shares just some of the highlights and happenings of Lakota's first two weeks back.

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Students, Staff Welcome First Day of School

08/23/2018

Lakota Schools welcomed back its 16,500 students in a very unique way this year. Superintendent Matthew Miller encouraged school leaders and staff to focus on building relationships with the students, instead of opening text books, for the first two days of school.

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Lakota Launches Family & Parent CommUnity University

08/23/2018

Lakota Local Schools announces its first-ever Family & Parent CommUnity University hosted by Lakota’s Outreach, Diversity & Inclusion (LODI) department, in partnership with Miami University Voice of America. The new monthly learning series, led by expert Lakota staff and community partners, is designed to provide training and resources to parents, relatives, staff, community members and others who play a role in helping educate our youth.

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A New Year: Lakota Staff Say 'Here WE Go'

08/22/2018

You know it’s a special occasion when all 1,700 Lakota staff members come together under one roof. Lakota staff opened the new school year together at Lakota West High School on Tuesday, Aug. 14. Banners and T-shirts with the words “Here WE Go” weren’t the only things setting the tone for the upcoming year.

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Celebrate the New School Year with Our First Day Photo Contest

08/09/2018

Our back-to-school photo contest is back by popular demand – and with a new twist. Lakota staff, students and parents are invited to help celebrate a new school year, with our #WEareLakota First Day Photo Contest. And this year, you can use our new custom frame for your photos!

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Lakota Learning Blog: An Educator, Mentor, Teammate From Day 1

08/08/2018

Mrs. Dunn loves you. Mrs. Dunn’s room is safe. Mrs. Dunn believes in you. This is just a sampling of the sentiments Lakota West language arts teacher Bethany Dunn wants her students to walk away with after their first couple days in her class. It stands in stark contrast to how she viewed the start to a new school year when she first started her career 13 years ago.

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Increased School Resource Officer Presence, New Visitor Management System Latest in Safety-Security Initiatives

08/07/2018

Lakota Schools has announced several new safety and security initiatives since the spring. Most recently, the district has committed to hiring eight additional school resource officers (SRO) for the upcoming school year, bringing the total number to 18. This will allow full-time law enforcement coverage at every Lakota school campus.

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Lakota Welcomes New Administrators

08/07/2018

In preparation for the 2018-19 school year, Lakota is welcoming new administrators at six of its schools, as well as in two key district positions. “It’s exciting to welcome such a strong group of new administrators to the district. While some are brand new to Lakota, others are returning home,” said Superintendent Matthew Miller. “I’m looking forward to seeing how our students will benefit from their leadership and the fresh ideas they will bring from their former positions and districts.”

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Lakota Partners with MindPeace to Increase Student Access to Mental Health Services

08/02/2018

A new partnership between Lakota Local Schools and MindPeace will increase student access to high quality and affordable mental healthcare.

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Lakota SRO Named Deputy of the Year

07/25/2018

Deputy Doug Hale was named Deputy of the Year by Butler County Sheriff Richard Jones on July 18. Hale was recognized for his years of service and outstanding performance.

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Lakota Increases Number of School Resource Officers

07/25/2018

In another demonstration of its commitment to the safety and security of its students and staff, Lakota Local Schools has committed to hiring eight additional school resource officers (SRO) for the upcoming school year, bringing the total number to 18. This will allow full-time law enforcement coverage at every Lakota school campus.

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2018-19 Back-to-School Essentials

07/11/2018

Beginning Thursday, August 16, Lakota teachers and support staff will welcome new and returning students for the start of the 2018-19 school year. Here is some important information to keep in mind as you and your family gear up for the new school year. From school supplies to bus routes to teacher assignments, we answer all your questions in this back-to-school FAQ.

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Lakota Community Invited to Share Thoughts in Survey

06/29/2018

Lakota Local Schools is committed to providing a high quality education that is student-centered. As we continue to move the district forward and improve the educational experience our students receive, we are embarking on a process to develop an overall strategic plan for our district.

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Lakota Announces Continued Commitment to Safety, Security Efforts

06/28/2018

Earlier this year, Lakota announced that it was researching new safety and security measures that go beyond the November 2013 levy commitments. “We have been exploring new initiatives for the safety and well-being of our district for the past year. Prior to the proposed levy, Lakota had already committed to the implementation of some of these programs,” said Superintendent Matthew Miller. “Those plans remain in place even after today’s withdrawal from the county-wide levy.”

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Information on County School Safety & Security Levy

06/27/2018

At the June 11, 2018 Board of Education meeting, Jenni Logan, Treasurer/CFO of Lakota Local Schools, presented information regarding the proposed county-wide school safety and security levy.

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Summer 2018 Newsletter Now Available

06/22/2018

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June Video Update: A Look Around Lakota

06/12/2018

Lakota Local Schools is proud to share this final edition of its monthly video update, "A Look Around Lakota," for the 2017-18 school year. The June edition features just some of the latest highlights and happenings around Lakota.

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Lakota's 'Transition to Work' Breakfast Celebrates Student Growth

06/05/2018

For many of the attendees at Lakota’s annual work study student appreciation breakfast, it is the highlight of their year. It’s a special event, not only for the students being honored and their families, but also for the employers who support the program.

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Wyandot Student-Led Bookstore Teaches 'Ideas Can Change the World'

06/04/2018

A new student-led bookstore at Wyandot Early Childhood School is the product of a big lesson for Libby Brown’s kindergarten class: Acting on a good idea is better than just having a good idea. The original idea came from kindergartner Carson Ratliff. “I thought since we were making lots of books in Writer’s Workshop, we might as well make a bookstore,” he said. Soon after, the entire class rallied behind his idea and began building upon it.

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Three Lakota Staff Experience Honor Flight with Local Veterans

06/04/2018

Three Lakota staff had the privilege of accompanying local veterans on the May 22 Tri-State Honor Flight - a division of the national non-profit organization that transports America’s veterans to Washington, D.C. to visit and reflect at their memorials.

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Endeavor Elementary Idea Takes to the Air

06/01/2018

Students at Endeavor Elementary School recently participated in the Cincinnati Architecture Foundation’s educational outreach program, Design Lab. The project based learning competition is a free, hands-on program for K-12 teachers in Greater Cincinnati.

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Fourth Annual Canoe Regatta Sails into Lakota YMCA

06/01/2018

Corrugated cardboard, duct tape and water may seem like an odd combination, but for Lakota East students taking Introduction to Engineering Design, it makes perfect sense.

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Trip to Freedom Center Has Big Impact on Adena ESL Students

05/31/2018

“Our recent field trip to the Freedom Center was simply one of the best days ever,” said Adena Elementary ESL specialist Helen Vassiliou. Last week, she took 25 English language learners in grades 4-6 on the trip to cap off their yearlong studies about the ideals of courage, perseverance, and the importance of helping others as leadership qualities.

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End of an Era: Hopewell, Heritage Pay Tribute to Long Histories

05/30/2018

Families and community members were invited to take a trip down memory lane at both Heritage and Hopewell elementary schools this month. Before the buildings become early childhood schools in the fall, former and current staff, students and their families visited and shared memories as they toured the buildings.

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Lakota Summer Updates

05/25/2018

Here's what you need to know about office hours, reading lists, the lunch program, the new location for the enrollment center, school supply lists and more!

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Congratulations to the Class of 2018

05/25/2018

Streamers and confetti filled the air at Xavier’s Cintas Center last week, in celebration of Lakota’s Class of 2018. Lakota West held its ceremony on Thursday to honor its 581 graduates, with Lakota East hosting its commencement exercises the following evening for 643 graduating seniors.

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Parade of Graduates Celebrates Class of 2018, Inspires Youngest Learners to Dream Big

05/23/2018

To the cheers of students, staff, parents and members of the community, approximately 900 seniors from both Lakota East and West high schools walked the halls of their elementary buildings during the second annual Parade of Graduates.

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Welcome Center Open through Summer, Relocates to Central Office June 21

05/22/2018

Lakota’s Welcome Center, previously known as the Enrollment Center, will remain open throughout the summer to welcome families new to Lakota for the 2018-19 school year. Beginning June 21, the Center will be available at its new location inside Lakota’s Central Office, located at 5572 Princeton Road.

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School Messenger Notification Accounts Set to Update June 1

05/22/2018

Lakota uses a comprehensive mass notification system, School Messenger, for delivering important school- and district-wide messages via email, phone and text message. All accounts will update to reflect new school and grade assignments for the 2018-19 school year on July 1.

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Holocaust Survivor's Message to West Freshman: Words are Powerful

05/18/2018

The resounding message at Lakota West Freshman from Holocaust survivor Dr. Al Miller last week was loud and clear: “Words are ever so powerful.”

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May Video Update: A Look Around Lakota

05/17/2018

Lakota Local Schools is proud to share this next edition of its monthly video update, "A Look Around Lakota." The May edition features just some of the latest highlights and happenings around Lakota.

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Freedom Students Help Build Monarch Waystation Garden

05/17/2018

Freedom students Pranav Khadkikar, Holden Burgess, and Siddharth Khadkikar came to Principal Lance Green two years ago with a proposal to build a LifeLAB Monarch Waystation garden on school grounds. After getting approval, the students and their families went right to work building the Waystation.

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East Students' Magnified Giving Projects Support Charities

05/17/2018

Honors English students at the East freshman campus have recently completed a project not only for a grade, but for a good cause. The students were tasked to choose a non-profit organization in greater Cincinnati to champion through a research project and presentation.

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Special Guests Share Motivational Messages with Plains Junior Students

05/16/2018

It was motivational Monday when two special guests visited Plains Junior School this week. Amberly Gray, a former Plains student and Lakota West graduate, and Rick Hughes, a retired professional basketball player, spoke to the students about hard work and perseverance.

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East Students Gift Custom Toy Cars, Learn Engineering is Emotional

05/16/2018

The smiles and squeals of joy filling the halls at Cincinnati Children’s Perlman Center on April 27 was all the payback Lakota East sophomore Maddie Barone needed for the countless hours - both during and after class - that she invested in a year-long engineering project.

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Eighth-Graders Get D.C. Send-Off from Congressman Davidson

05/15/2018

At some point during their eighth grade year, Lakota students have a chance to board a bus bound for Washington D.C. to bring American history lessons to life. Liberty Junior students are on their trip right now, and last week Hopewell Junior students had a special guest send them off for their visit to the nation’s capital. Congressmen Warren Davidson addressed the Hopewell eighth-graders, sharing why many of the stops they will make in D.C. are so important.

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Ridge Health Classes Apply Nutrition to Create Restaurants

05/15/2018

Students in Matt Abshear’s health classes at Ridge Junior School had the opportunity to put what they’ve learned into action. The eighth-graders became restauranteurs as they demonstrated their knowledge about nutrition.

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What Would You Like to Learn at Lakota's CommUnity University?

05/15/2018

Lakota Local Schools is excited to announce CommUnity University! The mission of CommUnity University is to provide families and community members with training, resources, and access to skills and services – all to help grow, achieve, and empower greater levels of advocacy for children, schools, and the community. We want to provide meaningful experiences, so we want to hear from you about what topics you’d like to see covered in our CommUnity University.

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Celebrating the Class of 2018

05/14/2018

Graduation ceremonies for Lakota's Class of 2018 will take place at Xavier's Cintas Center. Lakota West's ceremony is on Thursday, May 17 at 7 p.m.; Lakota East will hold its event the next evening, May 18, at 8 p.m. Tickets are not required to attend.

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Latest Lakota Shouts Outs (May 11)

05/14/2018

So many great things are going on around Lakota. Read about the latest Shout Outs that include everything from the Top 25 seniors to a student setting a Guinness World Record!

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Lakota, Community Foundation Announce 2018 Educators of Excellence

05/11/2018

The Community Foundation of West Chester/Liberty, in partnership with Lakota Local Schools, are proud to announce the three recipients of the 2018 Lakota Educator of Excellence Awards.

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Cincinnati Bengal Visits Hopewell Junior

05/10/2018

Students at Hopewell Junior School were able to spend time with Alex Erickson, wide receiver for the Cincinnati Bengals, when he visited their school. Erickson spoke to the group about being persistent, finding success and, of course, life in the NFL.

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New Start and End Times for Grades K-8 in 2018-19

05/09/2018

As announced earlier this year, several new initiatives will be implemented in August 2018, including: all-day kindergarten without a lottery system, daily specials for our K-6 students and 1:1 devices for our junior high school students. Another change will complement these positive shifts for our preschool through junior high school students.

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Over 40 Countries Represented at Hopewell Community's 'Celebration of Nations'

05/07/2018

Hopewell Junior and Hopewell Elementary recently came together for its 3rd annual Celebrations of Nations, honoring the diverse backgrounds found in their community. Families, staff, students and community members gathered for food, fun and sharing.

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Woodland Tech Squad Puts Student Voice into Action

05/04/2018

Woodland Elementary School’s Tech Squad made its debut appearance at the school’s April staff professional development session, sharing their plan for classroom support with teachers. The Squad consists of fourth, fifth and sixth grade students. Their primary mission is to help support their peers with digital learning in the classroom.

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Lakota Shout-Outs: April 27

05/04/2018

There are lots of great things happening around Lakota. Here are some recent special shout-outs to students and staff members.

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Lakota Hosts National Thought Leader for Future Ready Schools

05/03/2018

Over 100 instructional leaders around Lakota - and some from neighboring districts - gathered to learn from a national icon in classroom innovation and leadership last week. Lakota hosted the special visit from Thomas Murray, the digital learning and advocacy director for the Alliance for Excellent Education.

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Lakota Honors Volunteers for Service to Schools, District

05/02/2018

One of the presenters at Wednesday’s Barb Bossu Volunteer Spirit Awards referenced a favorite Woody Hayes quote: “You win with people.” Presenter after presenter shared the same sentiment, detailing all the things made possible at their school because of the selflessness of their volunteers. Twenty-three of the district’s most standout volunteers were awarded the coveted “Barb Bossu Volunteer Spirit Award” for their service and dedication to their school community.

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Share Why 2017-18 is a Year to Remember

05/01/2018

Now that the 2017-18 school year is coming to a close, it's time to look back at all of those memories and milestones that happened this year. Show us in photo form what made this a year to remember - it can be a special achievement, a memorable class or activity, or a person that really made a difference this year.

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April Video Update: A Look Around Lakota

05/01/2018

Lakota Local Schools is proud to share this next edition of its monthly video update, "A Look Around Lakota." The April edition features just some of the latest highlights and happenings around Lakota, including Lakota's first-ever Military Commitment Ceremony, the formation of Hope Squads at both high schools and the launch of a new tip line through Safer Schools Ohio.

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Lakota Adds 24-Hour Safety Tip Line

04/30/2018

Lakota Schools is adding another layer to its safety and security protocols. The district has partnered with the Ohio Department of Education and the Ohio Department of Public Safety to bring the SaferOH tip line to the Lakota community.

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Lakota Adds Safety Tip Line

04/30/2018

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Combining Technology and Project-Based Learning Across Grade Levels

04/24/2018

The commitment of a mother-son teaching duo to combine technology and project-based learning created positive learning experiences spanning multiple grade levels. Based on the stages of child development, Lakota East psychology teacher Jared Haynes challenged his students to develop a how-to manual for parents. Students developed videos and websites to help guide parents through the stages of infancy to the teenage years. To put their theories behind moral reasoning development to the test, they also created a series of questions that they shared with students in Jenny Haynes’s technology classes at VanGorden Elementary.

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Junior Achievement's Job Exploration Day Reaches 1,000-Plus Eighth-Graders

04/20/2018

By the end of the school year, about 1,000 Lakota eighth-graders will have visited a local business for a taste of what their future career might entail. It’s all part of Lakota’s continuing partnership with Junior Achievement to bring students a “Job Exploration Day”. More than 500 students from Plains and Ridge junior schools participated in the job shadowing event at one of 20 partner businesses late last month. Students at Hopewell and Liberty junior schools will enjoy the same experience next month.

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Career Readiness Science Club Takes on Sustainable Garden Project

04/19/2018

Career Readiness Academy (CRA) Science Club students are not just talking about topics like going green, eliminating waste, and reducing chemicals found in foods. They are working together to take on a major project that addresses all three topics - creating a sustainable garden using chemical-free, pesticide-free resources and materials.

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Earth Day Event Promises to Build CommUNITY

04/18/2018

Lakota families are invited to help build commUNITY on Earth Day 2018. Together with the West Chester Liberty Chamber Alliance, Lakota Local Schools will host a family friendly afternoon on Sunday, April 22 from 2 - 4 p.m. at the Square at Union Centre in West Chester.

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First Military Commitment Ceremony Recognizes Seniors

04/17/2018

Lakota Local Schools held its first annual military commitment ceremony on April 5. Thirty-three seniors from both Lakota East and West high schools, who have committed to entering either a military academy or branch of service after graduation, were recognized before a near capacity crowd at the Lakota East Freshman building. (A video and Facebook album of the event are now available.)

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May 3 'Parade of Graduates' a Community Affair

04/16/2018

As a way of recognizing the Class of 2018 as role models for their younger counterparts, Lakota is gearing up for another “Parade of Graduates.” On Thursday, May 3, all 10 of Lakota’s elementary schools will welcome a group of this year’s graduates in fanfare fashion.

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K-9 Units Perform Drug Search as Part of Safety and Security

04/12/2018

There are many different components included in the safety and security protocols at Lakota Schools. In addition to the safety drills practiced throughout the school year, periodically our partners at the Butler County Sheriff’s Office bring in K-9 units to perform drug searches at the high schools and in the student parking lots.

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K-9 Units Perform Drug Search as Part of Safety and Security

04/12/2018

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Lakota Welcomes Hope Squads to School Safety Program

04/11/2018

Lakota Local Schools, in partnership with Greater Cincinnati’s Grant Us Hope, is proud to bring Hope Squad to students at both Lakota East and Lakota West high schools. Preparation for full implementation in the 2018-19 school year is beginning now with student, staff and parent informational meetings. Lakota is one of over 20 schools in the Greater Cincinnati region to pilot the national school-based peer-to-peer suicide prevention program in southwestern Ohio. Hope Squad members are students nominated by their peers who are then trained to identify at-risk students, provide friendship and seek help from an adult.

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Lakota Welcomes Hope Squads to School Safety Program

04/11/2018

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New Adena Resource Pantry Meets Student Needs

04/02/2018

Just a few weeks after its inception, a former closet turned resource pantry at Adena Elementary is already stockpiled with hundreds of different snacks, school supplies and hygiene items.

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‘LakotaBranchesOut’ Photo Contest Celebrates National Volunteer Month

04/02/2018

In recognition of National Volunteer Month, help us share the many ways Lakota students and staff branch out to volunteer their time and talents in our community. Get creative and share a photo that demonstrates the individual or organization you like to support. Participate all month long on Facebook, Twitter or Instagram by tagging Lakota’s account and #LakotaBranchesOut.

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Liberty Junior Club Takes Drumming to a New Level

03/30/2018

After noticing a few students who used their pencils as drumsticks on their desks, Liberty Junior teacher Dave Schreier told them about a bucket drum performance he had seen. “I went out and picked up a couple of buckets and started messing around with it. After a few weeks, I brought it in and played some simple beats that took me weeks to learn. A couple of the kids picked the beat up in less than five minutes!”

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Cherokee Third-Graders Get Hands-On Lessons from Mounted Patrol

03/29/2018

Last year, Cherokee’s SRO Captain Katie McMahon visited third grade classrooms to talk about police horses to help students prepare to write essays on the benefits of police horses. This year she brought more than pictures to show the students – she brought two deputies and their horse, Reggie, from the Butler County Mounted Patrol.

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MidPointe Bookmobile Rolls Out to Lakota

03/27/2018

Lakota’s continuing partnership with the MidPointe Library is putting a new spin on the traditional school media center experience. MidPointe’s “Library on Wheels” program - originally designed to help reach parts of their service area without a physical branch as well as patrons physically unable to visit their branch - recently rolled out a bookmobile. The vehicle rolls up to most Lakota school buildings once a month, parking outside for most of the day as classes take turns coming aboard to peruse the monthly selections.

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Lakota Schools Holds First State of the Schools

03/22/2018

Lakota Local Schools held its first annual State of the Schools address on March 13. Approximately 200 people filled the seats on Lakota West High School’s Main Street to hear Superintendent Matthew Miller and his guest speakers talk about district accomplishments and future plans.

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Lakota High School Students Win National Art Awards

03/22/2018

Six Lakota high school students have won national awards in the 2018 Scholastic Art & Writing Awards Competition. Only a very small percentage of the 346,000 works of art submitted receive national awards. Gold medal recipients will have their artwork displayed in New York City. Award-winning students, their parents, and their art teacher are invited to attend the National Award Ceremony at Carnegie Hall in June.

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Lakota Learning Team Launches New Blog

03/16/2018

Lakota educators will be the voice behind the all-new “Inside Lakota Learning” blog. The Lakota learning experience is one filled with inquiry, innovation and discovery. Every student's learning style, passions and interests are different, which is why the experience of one student will never be exactly that of another. It's why Lakota teachers and support staff are committed to student-centered learning and providing a personalized approach marked by differentiated teaching methods.

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Student Voice Expressed while Honoring Stoneman Douglas Community

03/15/2018

After meeting with school administrators several weeks ago, students at Lakota East and West high schools worked to plan activities that would both honor the victims of the tragic school shooting at Stoneman Douglas High School and also give students the opportunity to share their feelings on school safety with legislators.

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New Culinary Center at Union Promotes Healthy Eating Habits

03/12/2018

If you’ve noticed the waning selection of kale at Kroger, it just may be attributed to the new culinary center at Union Elementary School. “We like to think we had something to do with that,” laughed Union Principal Kyle Lichey, recalling that news he heard from a parent as he joined a class of sixth-graders chopping, mixing and taste-testing a kale salad they learned to make in the new space. For many, it was their first-ever taste of kale and by and large, it received rave reviews.

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Help Honor Lakota's Educators of Excellence, Nominations Due April 9

03/09/2018

Following with tradition, the Community Foundation of West Chester/Liberty, in partnership with Lakota Local Schools, is currently accepting nominations for the 2018 “Lakota Educator of Excellence Awards.”

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Lakota to Honor Graduates in Military Commitment Ceremony

03/08/2018

Lakota is inviting the community on April 5 to help honor this year's Lakota East and Lakota West graduates who have committed to serve our country through any branch of the U.S. Military. The ceremony will take place at the Lakota East Freshman Campus from 7 to 8 p.m. Attendees are invited to meet our honorary students during an informal reception immediately following the program.

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Monthly ‘Storytime & Supper with the Superintendent’ Kicks Off March 20

03/06/2018

As part of its ongoing efforts to build community support around early literacy, Lakota Superintendent Matthew Miller will be hosting “Storytime & Supper with the Superintendent.”

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Share Your 'Lucky2BNLakota' Photos

03/06/2018

In celebration of St. Patrick’s Day this month, we’re asking you to tell us what makes you feel lucky to be in Lakota schools – with a photo! It can anything from a specific teacher to a favorite class to an extra-curricular program.

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Nominations Sought for 2018 Barb Bossu Volunteer Spirit Awards

03/01/2018

Nominations are being accepted now through March 21 for the 2018 district Barb Bossu Volunteer Spirit award. Everyone is encouraged to take a moment to consider nominating a volunteer who is making positive things happen in the district. It is your opportunity to demonstrate your appreciation for the volunteers that truly make Lakota a special place to educate children.

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West Chester Police Offering S.A.F.E. Classes for College-Bound Students

02/28/2018

Safety at college is a widespread concern among parents, which is why the West Chester Police Department is offering a free program focused on teaching practical skills for campus safety to female high school seniors and recent graduates.

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Lakota Shout-Outs: Feb. 23

02/28/2018

Recent Lakota Shout-Outs include swimmers heading to the state competition, LSSA and LEA scholarship winners, six National Merit Finalists, a Gatorade Runner of the Year, students headed to the Regional Spelling Bee, and an Auditor of State Award with Distinction.

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Lakota Revises Local Daycare Transportation Service Areas for 2018-19

02/27/2018

For early childhood and elementary students requiring before- and after-school care, Lakota is proud to offer transportation to and from area daycare providers. While this service currently extends to only those centers located within a student’s assigned attendance zone, we are expanding those parameters to accommodate students whose daycare providers now fall outside the recently revised attendance zone boundaries. By utilizing existing routes, we can accomplish this at no added cost to the district.

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Superintendent to Deliver 'State of the Schools' March 13

02/26/2018

Superintendent Matthew Miller will deliver the district’s first “State of the Schools” address on March 13. Members of the community are invited to attend. Miller will cover many topics, including success in the classroom, innovation in our schools, the district’s financial stability and the exciting initiatives coming in the 2018-19 school year.

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Lakota Celebrates Digital Learning Day

02/26/2018

Lakota Schools recently celebrated Digital Learning Day, with the help of Lakota’s Digital Learning Team, otherwise known as Team Inspire. The team kicked off the event by hosting a Lakota Ed Chat on Twitter on the eve of Digital Learning Day. The team posted questions that revolved around the impact digital technology has made on Lakota classrooms.

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Endeavor Students Designing STEAM2 Lab to Open in Fall

02/26/2018

Fifth grade students at Endeavor Elementary School participated in a Project-Based Learning exercise that not only has a real life solution, but that they will also get to experience first-hand: They designed their school’s new STEAM2 lab. STEAM2 stands for science, technology, engineering, arts, mathematics and medical. The labs in Lakota’s elementary and early childhood schools give students the opportunity to explore these subject areas through discovery and creativity.

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A Message from the Superintendent

02/23/2018

Dear Lakota Community, The tragedy that occurred last week at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland, FL has brought forth many concerns about the safety of our children. As a nation, we watched the news unfold, heartbroken for the 17 lives lost to a senseless act of violence. As a community, as a state, and as a nation, we look for answers on how to make sure that such a deplorable act does not happen again.

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Lakota Welcomes AC Hotel, Planes as Newest Internship Partners

02/23/2018

Lakota Local Schools is proud to welcome Marriott’s AC Hotel at Liberty Center and Planes Moving & Storage to its growing portfolio of high school internship programs. The new partners are part of the district’s spring line-up of student opportunities. Lakota East and West students can choose from 11 different experiences being offered this spring. For the first time, Lakota will also join the mix and host its own internship experiences in the areas of public finance, curriculum and instruction, and marketing and communications.

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Summer Fun Fair Promises 100 Vendors, Over $5,000 in Raffle Prizes

02/23/2018

In less than two weeks, Lakota East and West’s hallways will be lined with nearly 100 organizations offering summer youth activities. It’s all part of Lakota’s sixth annual Summer Fun Fair events taking place on Monday, March 5 at Lakota East High School and Wednesday, March 7 at Lakota West High School, both from 6-8 p.m.

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Lakota Earns Auditor of State Award with Distinction

02/22/2018

The Auditor of State’s Office has presented Lakota Local Schools with the “Auditor of State Award with Distinction.” This is the 4th consecutive year the district has earned this prestigious award.

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Lakota Partners with Miami University for Literacy Intervention

02/20/2018

Students at Creekside Early Childhood School will have special visitors twice a week for the rest of the school year. Ten Miami University pre-service teachers will work with Creekside’s kindergarten and first grade students on literacy interventions to help improve their reading skills.

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Athletic Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony Set for Mar. 22

02/19/2018

The 20th annual dinner and induction ceremony to honor the newest members of the Lakota Athletic Hall of Fame will be held on Thursday, March 22 at 5:30 p.m. at the Wetherington Golf & Country Club.

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Safety is Lakota’s Number One Priority

02/18/2018

The number one priority at Lakota Local Schools is the safety and security of our students, staff and visitors. Many of the ways we work to provide a safe learning environment for our students are visible as you walk through our schools, while others take place behind the scenes.

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Feb. 22: ‘Building a Stronger Community One Culture at a Time’ Next in Parent Engagement Series

02/14/2018

In addition to its all-new Facebook Live parent engagement series, Lakota is bringing parents monthly learning opportunities in a more traditional format. On Thursday, Feb. 22, the focus will turn to “Building a Stronger Community One Culture at a Time.”

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East Seniors Win Trip for Top Scores on Americanism Test

02/12/2018

“There are between 40,000 to 65,000 tests administered each year across Ohio, and the sheer numbers make it very, very rare to have a state award winner from any school or any district. But to have two from the same school in the same year, it’s just remarkable,” said Jerry Nelson, Americanism Chairman of American Legion Post 681. The remarkable happened at Lakota East this year, when seniors Hannah Ackerman and Weston Lindner won the State of Ohio Awards for best scores and essays on the annual Government Test administered by the American Legion.

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Student Ambassador Groups Formed at East, West

02/12/2018

Last week’s ‘Go Gold for Dragonfly Basketball Game’ is just the first of many projects that Lakota West students have planned as part of The Dragonfly Foundation’s Student Ambassador Program.

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Share Your #WEloveLakota Contest Photos

02/07/2018

In celebration of Valentine’s Day this month, we’re asking you to tell us what makes you love Lakota – with a photo! Is it a specific teacher, your principal, a favorite class, your entire school, your high school sweetheart, an extra-curricular program or maybe even the cafeteria’s chicken nuggets?

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Lakota’s New Mobile App Offers On-the-Go Convenience, Customization

02/03/2018

Lakota’s new and improved mobile app is now live in Apple and Google Play stores. Besides a refreshed design, the new app is packed with more resources all in one place, plus the ability to customize your calendar, news feed and push notification, based on your personal school selections.

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Shout-Outs: Jan. 26

02/02/2018

Read about Independence students who were recognized in the Patriots Pen contest, a 10th grade student who was the state winner in an MLK art contest, and about East's Dustin Horter and his trip with TEAM USA.

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Famous Illustrator Gives Students Glimpse into an Art Career

02/02/2018

“Everything around you has passed through the hands of an artist.” With these words of wisdom, illustrator C.F. Payne encouraged aspiring student artists at Lakota West Thursday evening to consider the countless possibilities of a career in art. More than 80 students, and their parents, packed into the community room to learn about his long and successful career in illustration.

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Lakota Art Students Big Winners in Regional Scholastic Art Awards

02/01/2018

Lakota high school students were big winners in the Regional Scholastic Art Awards with 142 individual awards and two portfolio winners. Judges reviewed over 5,000 art pieces on originality, technical skills, and emergence of personal vision or voice. Awards include Gold Key, Silver Key and Honorable Mention designations, and the winning pieces will be on exhibit at the Art Academy of Cincinnati from Jan. 29 through Feb. 9. The regional award ceremony will take place on Feb. 9 at the School for Creative and Performing Arts.

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Feb. 20 & 21: Lakota High Schools Host Student Job Fair

01/31/2018

Businesses interested in recruiting from one of the largest local pools of young talent are invited to exhibit at Lakota’s’ first-ever High School Student Job Fair. Visit with students at Lakota West High School (8940 Union Centre Boulevard, West Chester) on Tuesday, Feb. 20 and at Lakota East High School (6840 Lakota Lane, Liberty Twp.) on Wednesday, Feb. 21. Both fairs will take place from 9:45 a.m. - 10:50 a.m. in each school’s gymnasium.

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January Video Update: A Look Around Lakota

01/31/2018

Lakota Local Schools is proud to share this next edition of its monthly video update, "A Look Around Lakota." The January edition features just some of the latest highlights and happenings around Lakota, as shared by Lakota Superintendent Matthew Miller and Treasurer & CFO Jenni Logan.

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Calling All Writers: The Write Challenge Contest is Underway

01/31/2018

Is your student a budding Shakespeare? Or the next Elizabeth Barrett Browning? LEADS (Lakota’s Enrichment and Academic Development of Students) is excited to announce The Write Challenge writing contest for all Lakota students K-12.

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Theatre Programs Go Well Beyond What You See on Stage

01/30/2018

When the curtain opens in late February for Shrek the Musical at Lakota West, the community will be treated to a production that features some truly talented performers as well as some amazing technical theatre elements. Moving lights, specialty makeup and facial and head appliances will transform students into ogres, bears, pigs, and elves. Thirty body mics and 20 stand mics will be used for the cast and orchestra. The production will use a fog machine, three puppets, five bars of fly scenery, and eight moving wagons of scenery. And then there’s the 25-foot dragon puppet that takes six students to operate.

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Upcoming Theatre Productions

01/30/2018

There are lots of theatre productions coming up at Lakota's junior high and high schools. Click for details, including ticket information.

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Genius Hour Sparks Learning through Exploration

01/30/2018

If it weren’t for a little something called “Genius Hour,” Google may have never discovered a little something called Gmail. It’s with a similar goal in mind - giving students the creative outlet to discover and explore what interests them - that many Lakota teachers are turning to a concept Google coined “Genius Hour” in their classrooms. Some call it a “Passion Project,” while others call it “20% Time,” but the basic premise is the same.

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Attendance Zone Changes Pave Way for 18-19 Changes

01/24/2018

Updated attendance boundaries for the 2018-19 school year are now available on the Lakota website. As was communicated to parents and staff in December 2017, a building realignment is necessary to offer all-day kindergarten to all students beginning next school year.

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Preschool Registration Begins Feb. 1, Application Now Available

01/18/2018

Registration for Lakota's tuition-based preschool program will begin on Feb. 1 and run through Feb. 28. An informational meeting for parents will be held on Feb. 15 at Liberty Early Childhood School from 6:30 to 8 p.m. Staff members will be available to answer questions and to give an overview of the program. They will share the Creative Curriculum and Acelero Adaptation that preschool teachers follow, as well as what the "life in the day of a preschool child" looks like.

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Shout-Outs: Special Student Recognitions

01/18/2018

This Shout-Out edition includes some seniors that earned top scores in a regional government test, a West sophomore who won a "Keep the Dream Alive" award, and an East junior that won a national journalism award.

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Lakota School Board Welcomes Two New Members, Elects Leaders

01/18/2018

Monday’s organizational meeting of the Lakota Board of Education began with the swearing in of two new board members, Kelley Casper and Brad Lovell. Todd Parnell commenced a second term, joining current board members Lynda O’Connor and Julie Shaffer.

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West's Art Alumni Day as Fulfulling for Alumni as Students

01/17/2018

A career in art can mean anything from fashion design, illustration and architecture to animation, graphic design and automotive design. That’s what aspiring artists at Lakota West learned at this year’s 15th annual Art Alumni Day, where more than 20 alumni returned to share their post-graduation experiences and lessons. “Our students get to actually see what the next step might be for them in college and even beyond,” said Visual Arts teacher Stephanie Gauer. “Doing it this way opens up their eyes in a way that a lecture format couldn’t have nearly the same impact. It really brings all the possibilities of their future in art to life.”

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Hopewell Elementary Students, Staff Drinking More Water

01/16/2018

Students at Hopewell Elementary are having a healthier start to the new year, drinking lots of water from their two new water fountain/bottle filler stations. The fountains were part of a grant that the school received from the Delta Dental Foundation.

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Lakota District Selected for 8th Annual AP Honor Roll

01/15/2018

Lakota Local Schools has been selected by the College Board for the 8th annual AP Honor Roll. The district is one of 447 across the United States and Canada, including 34 in Ohio, to receive the distinction. This is the fourth time Lakota has been selected. The AP Honor Roll recognizes school districts that have increased access to Advanced Placement® (AP) coursework while also maintaining or increasing the percentage of students earning a score of three or higher on AP exams.

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Juniors, Seniors Can Apply Now for Spring Internships

01/14/2018

This spring, Lakota’s juniors and seniors will have more internship opportunities than ever before. Lakota has partnered with area businesses to create unique learning experiences that also offer elective high school credit. In addition, Lakota departments have developed internships in the areas of public finance, curriculum & instruction and marketing & public relations.

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Community Conversations Embrace Student Voice

01/11/2018

“A great education should be student-centered. To achieve this, the district and building leaders must listen to our students’ voices. They are why we do what we do.” This belief by Superintendent Matthew Miller has brought a new group to the district’s long standing program, community conversations.

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Lakota Creates Outreach, Diversity and Inclusion Department

01/10/2018

Lakota Local Schools is proud to announce the creation of the Lakota Outreach, Diversity and Inclusion (LODI) department. This office is charged with enhancing the district’s ongoing efforts to consistently provide all students with a safe, secure and supportive learning environment free from all forms of discrimination, harassment, and intimidation.

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Community Invited to Martin Luther King Day Celebration Jan. 15

01/10/2018

The 19th annual community celebration of Martin Luther King Day will take place on Monday, Jan. 15. The commemoration begins at 10:30 a.m. with a ‘March for Unity’ from the Square at Union Centre over to Lakota West High School, where there will be a program followed by a free lunch for all participants. Everyone is welcome to attend.

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Are You Ready for Winter? Check Your Weather Communication Preferences Today

01/04/2018

Let the dropping temperatures serve as a reminder to check your Lakota communication preferences for possible weather-related delays and closures in the coming months.

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Schools District-Wide Demonstrate December's 'Lakota Gives Back' Theme

12/20/2017

Throughout the district, students are showing the spirit of the season by giving back to the community. From our early childhood schools to our high schools, our school communities have been actively involved in helping our neighbors.

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Shout-Outs: Making Team USA, Celebrating a Community Art Project and Honoring an All-American

12/19/2017

The latest Lakota Shout-Outs include some exceptional athletes and a special art teacher.

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Lead Singer from 'Blessid Union of Souls' Shares Lessons with West Choir Students

12/19/2017

Susan Bauer's Lakota West choir room was packed with students on Monday to learn from a very special guest. As singer/musician Eliot Sloan recounted a time when he and fellow band members of 'Blessid Union of Souls' were on the road travelling to their next gig, emotions set in. It happened well over 22 years ago, but Sloan still had to pause to take it all in… the moment when American Top 40 radio host Casey Kasem announced their “I Believe” as the number one song in the nation.

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