What's New

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

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.

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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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West Book-Writing Project Delivers Powerful Lesson to Heritage Students

12/18/2017

A project that connected some of Lakota’s oldest students with some of its youngest served as a powerful lesson for students on both sides of the table. Lakota West students in Marian Weber’s English 12 World Literature & Composition class created personalized children’s holiday books as a way of inspiring and stressing the importance of literacy to second-graders at Heritage Elementary.

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Honors English Classes Combine Learning with Service

12/15/2017

The 211 students enrolled in honors English at the Lakota East Freshman building have just completed a service learning project which combined curriculum-based learning with community service. This is the third year for the assignment.

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Ridge Student Uses STEM Skills to Improve Flexible Classroom

12/08/2017

A Lakota Ridge team of math and science teachers led by Fritz Prior is seizing the opportunity to pilot a classroom with more user-friendly, ergonomically-designed furniture. Most of the furniture is on wheels, giving students the flexibility to move freely throughout the room for better collaboration on group projects.

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Lakota Preschools Receive ‘Step Up to Quality’ 5-Star Rating

12/08/2017

For the first time, Lakota Local Schools’ preschool program has been awarded five stars by the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services and the Ohio Department of Education’s “Step Up to Quality” (SUTQ) rating program. This quality and improvement rating system evaluates early learning and development programs throughout the state. Ratings are given based on a five-tiered system as a way of recognizing child care programs that meet the state quality standards and exceed minimum health and safety licensing regulations.

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East's Spark Wins 17th National Pacemaker Award

12/07/2017

The Spark, Lakota East High School’s student publication, has once again added to its award shelf. The news magazine, under the editorial leadership of Erinn Aulfinger, Michelle Chu, Emma Stiefel and Lauren Wilson, has been named a 2017 Pacemaker Award winner from the National Scholastic Press Association for the 14th time. The Spark has been named a national print finalist 17 times since 1997.

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Lakota Goes Live on Facebook with Parent Learning Series

12/06/2017

A new learning series open to all Lakota parents makes starting to engage in your child’s education as easy as logging into Facebook. One night a month, beginning in January 2018, Lakota teachers and staff will be available to provide parents with tips and strategies in a live conversation format on Facebook. Sessions will cover a range of topics, including strategies for reading together, interacting with teachers and other school staff, creating a positive learning environment at home, and more.

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#LakotaGivesThanks Gives Way to December's #LakotaGivesBack

12/05/2017

Throughout December, we invite you to share your Lakota stories of service on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram or all three! To add your post to the growing list of stories, be sure to tag Lakota Local Schools (“Lakota Schools” on Facebook, @LakotaDistrict on Twitter and Lakota_District on Instagram) and include #LakotaGivesBack in your posts.

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East, West Students Learn to 'Be The Difference'

12/05/2017

For sophomores at Lakota East, the recent “Be the Difference Day” will be markedly different than any other day in their high school career. For seven years, the school has partnered with Changepoint Learning, a Tri-state provider of experiential learning programs that promote self-reflection and peer understanding in area schools. At the high school level, they call it “Be the Difference.”

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Shout-Outs for Dec. 1: Special Student and Staff Recognitions

12/04/2017

Special shout-outs go out to East senior Joe Mislansky and to Angie Brown, Lakota's community/parent engagement coordinator.

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Hopewell’s ‘Thunderhawk Studios’ Lets Students Run the Show

12/01/2017

A new after-school club at Hopewell Junior School called “Thunderhawk Studios” is empowering students to shape every aspect of their newfound group.

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'Wonder' Teaches Sixth-Graders More than Language Arts Standards

11/30/2017

Over 6 million people have read the #1 New York Times bestseller 'Wonder' by R.J. Palaccio – including every Lakota sixth-grader. And many of those students recently took a field trip to see the story come to the big screen.

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#GivingTuesday Kicks Off Year-End #GiveLakota Campaign

11/28/2017

The Community Foundation of West Chester/Liberty, in partnership with Lakota Local Schools, invites the community to help transform this year’s #GivingTuesday into #GiveLakota!

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Save the Date, Exhibit at Lakota Summer Fun Fair March 5 & 7

11/27/2017

Lakota Local Schools will partner with more than 100 local businesses and organizations to host its sixth annual Summer Fun Fair this March 5 and 7. The event features local organizations with programs and services to keep students in grades K-12 active this summer.

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Lakota East Metals Workshop Creates Artwork, Family Bonds

11/24/2017

The Family Metals Workshop recently held at Lakota East was a first for the district. Parents and students took a two-week class where they worked side-by-side to create keepsake ornaments to take home with them. Before designing their art pieces, parents and students were able to enjoy dinner together.

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"Meet the Families" Night Held for Wyandot, Cherokee

11/23/2017

The goal of Lakota’s Parent/Family Engagement and Community Outreach efforts is to reach every part of the district. A recent “Meet the Families” Night brought 150 families and Lakota staff together to talk, enjoy a meal and share ideas on topics like building relationships and literacy. Students even got to select new books to take home with them.

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District, Six Schools Receive ODE's Momentum Award

11/21/2017

Lakota Local Schools, including six individual schools within the district, has received the Ohio Department of Education’s Momentum Award for 2017. This annual recognition is given to districts or schools that have received A’s on all Value-Added measures on the state report card. In addition, winners of the award must also have at least two Value-Added subgroups of students, including gifted, lowest 20% in achievement and students with disabilities.

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VanGorden Rocks Kindness-Inspired Art Project

11/21/2017

A school-wide art project at VanGorden Elementary challenged students and staff, alike, to practice and promote a culture of inclusiveness, positivity, and respect for one another.

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Saluting Our Veterans

11/20/2017

Emotions were high as Adena Elementary closed out its Veterans Day program Nov. 10 with nearly 700 students saluting the more than 80 veterans joining them in the school cafeteria that morning.

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Shout-Outs: Special Student and Staff Recognitions

11/20/2017

Click to read more about special student and staff recognitions for East senior Dustin Horter, Union teacher Greg Clark, Lakota's Director of Curriculum Keith Koehne, and Adena's Helen Vassilou.

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November Video Update: A Look Around Lakota

11/16/2017

Lakota Local Schools is proud to share this next edition of a new monthly video update, "A Look Around Lakota." The November edition features just some of the latest highlights and happenings around Lakota, as shared by Lakota Superintendent Matthew Miller.

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#LakotaGivesThanks on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram

11/15/2017

Through Nov. 21, post one or more photos that best capture the people, places, programs or things that make Lakota a better place. We invite you to share your personal words of thanks on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram or all three!

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IKEA Gives Lakota West Media Center $11K Makeover

11/15/2017

The Lakota West High School community, in partnership with IKEA West Chester, is celebrating a completely refurbished space inside its media center. The global retailer’s in-kind donation of more than $11,000 in mostly furniture, and some lighting and other decorative items, has transformed the space into a more contemporary learning environment for all students.

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Liberty Junior Celebrates 40 Years

11/14/2017

In 1977, Star Wars IV: A New Hope, Smokey and the Bandit and Saturday Night Fever were hits at the box office; a gallon of gas cost 65 cents; the New York Yankees won the World Series; and Steve Martin was frequently quoted as saying, “Well, excuuuuuuuse me!” Arguably, one of the best things to happen in 1977 was Liberty Junior School opening its doors to educate students in the Lakota Local School District.

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West Artwork Selected for NYC Photography Exhibition

11/14/2017

High school students throughout the United States answered the call for submissions to show their photographic artwork alongside their peers in an exhibition titled "2017 America." The committee received over 2000 photos from 30 states. Twelve photos submitted by Lakota West students were selected for the exhibition.

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West Criminal Justice Class Welcomes Hamilton County Prosecutor

11/09/2017

If the end goal is an authentic learning experience, there’s no replacement for a live expert source. That was exactly the thought behind Lakota West teacher Diann Adams’ decision to invite Hamilton County Prosecutor Joe Deters into her American Law & Criminal Justice class this week.

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Sixth-Graders Learn Powerful Lessons through FUSE Program

11/08/2017

Sixth-graders at Independence Elementary School were immersed in activities to show how their words and actions impact others on Tuesday. Led by the team from the FUSE Project, students spent the afternoon participating in both large and small group activities designed to show the participants how their words and actions affect others.

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Hopewell Junior Students Exchange Expertise with Local Seniors

11/08/2017

A recent activity that mixed Hopewell Junior School eighth-graders with senior citizens from West Chester’s Activity Center demonstrated that education is a two-way street. For an hour during the school’s advisory period, both groups had the opportunity to share their passion and expertise on two different topics: Tech Time and Chair Volleyball.

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Shout-Outs: Giving Back, Being a Good Role Model and Lots of Championships

11/07/2017

There are always lots of great things happening around Lakota -- here are a few Shout-Outs recognizing some recent special accomplishments.

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Lakota Launches Online Spirit Wear Shop with Limited-Time Promotion

11/03/2017

To celebrate the launch of the district’s first-ever online spiritwear shop - and kick off the holiday shopping season - Lakota is proud to offer the community reduced introductory rates on select district apparel. This limited-time promotional offer continues through Nov. 13, ensuring all orders placed by this date will be delivered before winter break.

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District Food Drive Stuffs Three Buses, Shows Power of 'WE are Lakota'

11/03/2017

The new spin on this year’s district-wide food drive may have played some part in the nearly three bus loads delivered to Reach Out Lakota this week. The community food and clothing pantry estimates that the 10th annual event yielded about 27,000 pounds of non-perishable items.

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Wyandot Celebrates a Special Birthday

11/02/2017

It was the biggest birthday party any of the students at Wyandot Early Childhood Center had ever attended. Last week’s celebration marked Wyandot’s 10-year anniversary, and it drew many guests that once called Wyandot home.

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Lakota East Welcomes Honor Flight

11/01/2017

On October 24th, approximately 250 Lakota East High School students boarded six school buses to head to the Cincinnati/Greater Kentucky International Airport (CVG), not to board a plane, but to welcome home 68 United States veterans.

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Forensics Lab Focuses on Crime Scenes

11/01/2017

Popular shows like CSI or Criminal Minds give you a glimpse into the world of forensics. But with the help of Forensic Detective Mike Steele, students at Lakota’s Career Readiness Academy (CRA) got a hands-on look at how detectives approach a crime scene. Detective Steele (from the Butler County Sheriff’s Office) discussed what happens at crime scenes, and focused in on the primary action at a crime scene – lifting fingerprints.

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Teachers Show How #WEareNetworked throughout Lakota Learning Day

10/26/2017

On Oct. 16th, the teachers became the students during Lakota Learning Day. The day’s theme, #WEareNetworked, set the tone for the day’s professional development sessions. Following a successful PD day in September, Lakota’s curriculum department put the call out to teachers and staff members for not only session ideas, but volunteers to lead them. This resulted in over 100 teachers leading more than 75 separate sessions.

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'Stuff the Pig' Just One of Creekside's Teacher-Led Service Projects

10/25/2017

Creekside Early Childhood School’s teacher-based teams (TBTs) were presented with a challenge at the start of the school year: come up with a way to help or honor people in the community by creating a school-wide event. Last week, one of the teams held a fun event where students and staff wore pink and brought in donations to stuff a cute pig created by the school’s art teacher.

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Upcoming High School Theatre Productions

10/25/2017

Lakota East theatre presents "A Ghost Tale for Mister Dickens" and Lakota West will be performing "To Kill a Mockingbird".

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Lakota West Staff Makes Dance Experiences Extra Special

10/24/2017

Every fall, Nicole Lampe and the rest of the Special Education staff at Lakota West host a special homecoming event. Their students are invited to West to enjoy dinner with their friends in a festive environment with balloons, tablecloths, and even a selfie station complete with fun hats and glasses.

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Lakota Issues First Quality Profile

10/24/2017

Lakota Local Schools is proud to share with the community its first-ever Quality Profile. This new 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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Parent Engagement Programs Take Off, Improve Academic Performance

10/23/2017

When parents are engaged in their child's education, their academic performance improves. It is this belief that drives Angie Brown to always be on the lookout for new ideas to engage parents and their children.

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Plains Eighth-Graders Experience College, Career Choices at 'Discover STEM' Conference

10/20/2017

Plains Junior School eighth-graders accounted for nearly a quarter of the area students who attended the recent Discover STEM Conference, a college and career fair hosted by the Butler County Educational Service Center (BCESC).

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Calling All 2-6 Grade Readers: LEADS Book Club is Back

10/20/2017

The LEADS Book Club will meet on Nov. 13 in the media center at Union Elementary. The book selection for Rockin’ Readers (grades 2-4) is Frindle by Andrew Clements and the Novel Bunch (grades 4-6) will be discussing Hatchet by Glen Paulson.

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'Listen Up Lakota' Podcast with Superintendent Miller Now Available

10/19/2017

Tune in to WMKV 89.3FM, WLHS 89.9FM Friday, Oct. 20 at 5 p.m. for a special edition of "Listen Up Lakota." This month's radio interview features Lakota Local Schools Superintendent Matthew Miller and Reach Out Lakota CEO Peyton Gravely discussing the longstanding partnership between both organizations, including the twist on this year's 10th annual district-wide food drive.

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Students Assign Grades in Annual MLK Day Writing, Art Contest

10/19/2017

As part of our community’s 19th 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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Ready to Read? What Parents Need to Know about the Third Grade Reading Guarantee

10/17/2017

Lakota’s Curriculum and Special Education Departments are hosting an event for parents who wish to better understand the Third Grade Reading Guarantee state law and its impact on K-3 students.

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Community Conversation on Student Stress, Anxiety Oct. 25

10/17/2017

Lakota will hold a Community Conversation on Oct. 25 to discuss the stresses and anxieties on students, and the roles of parents, schools and the community in helping students deal with them.

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Lakota Community Rallies Behind 'Stuff the Bus' Food Drive

10/16/2017

Almost as a symbol of this year's new approach to the annual district-wide food drive for Reach Out Lakota, the "Stuff the Bus" community drive kicked off at the East vs. West football game Sept. 29.

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October Video Update: A Look Around Lakota

10/12/2017

Lakota Local Schools is proud to share the first edition of a new monthly video update, "A Look Around Lakota." The October edition features just some of the latest highlights and happenings around Lakota, as shared by Lakota Superintendent Matthew Miller.

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Child Nutrition Seeking Part-Time Cafeteria Workers

10/10/2017

Are you looking to get more involved with your child's school or other schools around Lakota? Are you looking for work that is flexible and follows school hours?

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Monthly Newsletter Highlights 'Champions for Change' Activities

10/09/2017

The Champions for Change Program is launching a monthly newsletter highlighting the activities of this cultural proficiency training program for Lakota staff. The program, now in its second year, offers staff the skills and strategies they can use in the classroom to better understand potential barriers and partner with families for the best possible outcome for all students.

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Chamber, SPARK Host 'Meet the Candidates' Events for School Board Oct. 18, 24

10/09/2017

Two local groups are hosting "Meet the Candidates" events for this year's candidates to the Lakota Board of Education. Both events are open to any West Chester or Liberty Township resident.

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Lakota Students Selected for All-State and Area Ensembles, Orchestras

10/06/2017

Lakota band students will have a chance to join alongside other talented band students from across the area – and across the state – as part of honor ensembles and orchestras.

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Lakota Local Schools Accepted into National Network of Innovative School Districts

10/05/2017

Exciting news for Lakota -- the district was just accepted into the National Network of Innovative School Districts. Only 93 school districts nationwide are part of the league. Here's a joint press release from Digital Promise and Lakota with the details.

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West Athletic Director Named to Ohio Advisory Council

10/03/2017

Lakota West Athletic Director Scott Kaufman is one of seven athletic administrators selected to serve on the Ohio High School Athletic Association’s “Athletic Director Advisory Council” for the 2017-2018 school year. He will serve as a representative of the OHSAA District Athletic Board, for which he is a member.

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Liberty Junior School Teacher Named Jennings Fellow

10/03/2017

The Martha Holden Jennings Foundation recently named Mrs. Cheryl Zachry, a science teacher at Liberty Junior School, a "Jennings Fellow." Zachry is one of 13 teachers in southwest Ohio to earn the title in 2017.

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Wyandot 'Little Stars' Build Relationships with East 'Big Stars'

10/02/2017

It's not every day Lakota East juniors and seniors have to squeeze into first grader-sized chairs. But for the remainder of the school year, it will be a ritual every other Wednesday for about 35 East students who have volunteered for the mentorship program.

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Safety a Top Priority at Lakota

09/27/2017

The safety, health, and well-being of Lakota students, staff, volunteers, and visitors is a top priority of the district, and goes well beyond the safe and secure entrance you notice at each school building. It also goes beyond the 10 school resource officers (uniformed law enforcement officers, either deputies from the Butler County Sheriff’s Office or police officers from the West Chester Police Department) that serve Lakota schools.

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Lakota East Lights the Sky to Celebrate 20 Years

09/27/2017

The scene at Lakota East's Sept. 8 home football game, and the week leading up to it, was like no other the school has hosted in its 20-year history. "Over the course of 20 years, a lot of people have been involved in shaping the community we all know as Lakota East today," said East Principal Suzanna Davis. "We wanted to make the 20-year anniversary a big celebration for all those people, past and present."

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Kinetic Vision Engineering Internship Open House Oct. 9

09/26/2017

Kinetic Vision will be holding an open house on Monday, October 9 from 3:30 – 5:00 p.m. for Lakota high school students interested in applying for their engineering/design paid internship.

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'Dress for Success' Tie Project Teaches Life Skills

09/26/2017

Earlier this month, more than 100 students enrolled in Lakota's alternative high school program, Career Readiness Academy, learned an important life lesson – how to tie a tie.

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Endeavor Students, Staff Have Fun Getting Ready for New STEAM Lab

09/25/2017

Endeavor students and staff are getting ready to launch their new STEAM lab in January, and have had lots of fun the last two weeks getting a preview of what's to come there and raising funds for the new learning space.

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Fall 2017 Community Newsletter Now Available

09/22/2017

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Six Lakota Seniors Take Top Honors, Named National Merit Semifinalists

09/22/2017

Six 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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Adena Elementary Remembers 9/11

09/21/2017

Adena Elementary School students and staff gathered in the front of the school to remember 9/11 and honor Patriot Day. Principal John Mattingly said, “We have gathered together because it is Patriot Day, an annual observance of September 11th, to remember those who were injured or died during the terrorist attacks in the United States on September 11, 2001.”

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District-Wide 'Stuff the Bus' Food Drive has New Twist, Kicks Off Sept. 29

09/20/2017

To celebrate the 10th annual district-wide food drive for Reach Out Lakota, Lakota Local Schools and the Lakota Board of Education are issuing a new challenge this year to the Lakota community, as well as two neighboring communities.

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2016-17 Report Card Shows Substantial Growth in Key Areas

09/18/2017

The Ohio Department of Education recently released the state report card results for Ohio schools. While Lakota Local Schools shows marked improvement in many areas, the results should be read with some contextual understanding of the continued challenges all Ohio schools are facing under the grading scale.

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Student Spotlight: East Football Kicker Helps Kids with Cancer

09/13/2017

Each time East football player Gavin Myers kicks a field goal or an extra point, it means much more than putting points up on the scoreboard.

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Students Learn Powerful Lessons During Wheelchair Basketball Games at Cherokee Elementary

09/13/2017

Students took away some powerful life lessons during a recent wheelchair basketball assembly at Cherokee Elementary. They learned that: People have more similarities than differences. Tough times may happen but you can persevere despite your circumstance. Being a good friend or family member is really important. And the students had a lot of fun doing it.

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Superintendent Miller Holds First Coffee Chat

09/12/2017

One of the most recent stops in Lakota Superintendent Matt Miller’s ongoing community listening tour was on Wednesday morning at his first Coffee Chat. More than 30 parents and residents gathered at Einstein Bros. Bagels off Allen Road to meet Miller, learn more about his vision for Lakota, and also provide input based on their own experiences.

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Innovation Drives Collaborative Lakota Staff Learning Day

09/11/2017

Lakota students may have been off school last Friday, but the classrooms at Lakota East and West were filled with learners. Lakota staff held its first Lakota Learning Day of the year, and the #WEareInnovators theme guided the day’s activities.

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New Podcast Features Lakota's Financial Communication Efforts through Latest Prospectus

09/11/2017

Lakota Treasurer Jenni Logan recently participated in a podcast all about the district's first financial prospectus. The publication, distributed to West Chester and Liberty residents and businesses last spring, was designed to share with our community an in-depth look at the district's finances in an easy to-understand format.

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Lakota Gives Back: Schools Rally for Hurricane Harvey Victims

09/08/2017

The movement at Lakota West that produced thousands of T-shirts and shoes for the victims of Hurricane Harvey started with a single tweet from Lakota West Principal Elgin Card. Read more about the relief effort at Lakota West and other schools throughout the district.

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Barber Shop, Books & Boys Kicks Off Sept. 5

09/01/2017

All Lakota boys in grades 1-6 are invited to the first “Barber Shop, Books & Boys” program of the new school year Tuesday, Sept. 5 at 6 p.m. at X-Quiste Cutz (located at 7324 Kingsgate Way, Unit F in West Chester).

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Creekside Mural Puts School Mission on Display

08/30/2017

A new wall mural greeting visitors to Creekside Early Childhood School is an eye-catching display of the school’s daily mission – to grow creative young minds. Lakota art teacher Teri McElroy designed and painted the mural as a reflection of something happening inside not only her own art classroom, but many others throughout Creekside.

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Career Readiness Academy Lands in New Location, Serves More Students

08/30/2017

Lakota’s Career Readiness Academy opened its doors at a new location this year. The refurbished building on Lakota West’s freshman campus replaces its prior home inside Lakota West’s main campus. The move more than doubled its capacity to serve students.

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Coffee Chats with the Superintendent

08/29/2017

Join Lakota’s new Superintendent Matt Miller at his first Community Coffee Chat Wednesday, Sept. 6 from 9 to 10 a.m. at Einstein Bros. Bagels located at 9216 Allen Road in West Chester.

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New to Lakota? Join Us at Our Annual Ice Cream Social

08/28/2017

For those 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. Lakota’s CommUNITY Ambassadors invites all new families to its annual ice cream social on Wednesday, Sept. 6 from 5-7:30 p.m.

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#WEareLakota Back-to-School Photo Contest Inspires Social Sharing

08/25/2017

Hundreds of photos, shared by students, parents and staff, helped chronicle students’ first days back to school this year. The popular back-to-school photo contest celebrated the start of the new year – and the excitement behind Lakota’s new hashtag, #WEareLakota. Popular vote – or total likes on the original social media post – determined the three winning photo submissions on both Facebook and Twitter. Each winner received a #WEareLakota T-shirt.

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East Freshman School Transforms First Day

08/23/2017

Freshmen at Lakota East kicked off the school year in a very non-traditional way. They spent a short time going through their schedules and visiting each class, but after that the ninth-graders spent the day doing small and large group activities, being energized by the message of some guest speakers, and coming together as the Class of 2021 during a special pep assembly.

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Lakota Kicks Off New School Year at 'Opening Day'

08/14/2017

Lakota kicked off the new school year with staff at an Opening Day Celebration at Lakota East on Aug. 11. New Superintendent Matt Miller led the festivities, sharing his top priorities as he settles into his new role: lots of listening and asking questions.

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Bus Routes and ECS/Elementary Teacher Assignments Now Available in HAC

08/10/2017

Bus route and ECS/Elementary teacher assignments for the 2017-2018 school year are now available. You can view bus and ECS/elementary teacher assignments for the 2017-2018 school year on the registration page of Home Access Center (HAC).

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08/04/2017

Last year’s Student Fanfare events were so popular with students, their families and community members, that we are bringing them back for the 2017-18 school year.

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#WEareLakota First Day Photo Contest

08/03/2017

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, and Lakota’s new hashtag, with our #WEareLakota First Day Photo Contest!

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Adena Announces New Principal

07/31/2017

Lakota Local Schools is pleased to welcome John Mattingly back to Lakota as the new principal at Adena Elementary. Pending school board approval, the former assistant principal will move into his new role for the start of the 2017-2018 school year.

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2017-18 Back to School Essentials: Your Questions Answered

07/24/2017

It’s that time of year again! Summer is coming to a close and beginning Wednesday, August 16, Lakota teachers and support staff will be welcoming back new and returning students. Here is some important information to keep in mind as you and your family gear up for the new school year.

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Parents & Staff: Update Lakota Communication Preferences in School Messenger

07/24/2017

Lakota Local Schools uses a comprehensive mass notification system, InfoCenter, for delivering important school- and district-wide messages via email, phone and text message. InfoCenter provides parents, guardians and staff with a convenient way to manage their preferences for receiving weather-related, emergency and general notifications from Lakota and its schools.

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Lakota Welcomes New Assistant Principals

07/21/2017

In preparation for the 2017-2018 school year, Lakota is welcoming new assistant principals at two early childhood schools, four elementary schools and one junior high school.

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Three Lakota Junior High Teams Place in Top 10 at National Technology Competition

07/18/2017

In June, ButlerTech sponsored 47 Lakota high school and junior high students to attend a five-day national technology competition in Orlando, Florida. All 47 students advanced to this event as a result of winning the Technology Student Association (TSA) state event in April.

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Lakota Teachers Excel in State Assessment

07/13/2017

Lakota Local Schools is pleased to announce that three district teachers were in the top 100 RESA (Resident Educator Summative Assessment) scorers throughout the entire state.

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Lakota's Endeavor Announces New Principal

06/30/2017

Lakota Local Schools is pleased to welcome a current Lakota leader into her new position as the principal at Endeavor Elementary. Pending school board approval, Ridge Junior Assistant Principal Andrea Blevins will move into her new role for the start of the 2017-2018 school year.

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Lakota Students: Share a Staff Shout-Out Video Message

06/30/2017

Our teachers and support staff are the driving force behind Lakota’s daily mission to provide students with the best educational experience. From the front office to the classroom to the cafeteria – and everywhere in between – it’s no surprise that our students have great stories about those Lakota staff who make them smile and have left a lasting impression. That is why Lakota is kicking off the 2017-18 school year in a fanfare fashion for our staff. And we need your help to remind our teachers and support staff exactly why their work makes a difference – in the eyes of the people they serve each day

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Lakota East Freshman Welcomes New Associate Principal

06/23/2017

Lakota Local Schools has hired Rob Burnside as the new associate principal to lead the Lakota East Freshman Campus, pending school board approval.

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Lakota Announces New Curriculum Leaders

06/23/2017

Lakota Local Schools is pleased to announce two new leaders stepping into recently vacated positions on the district’s curriculum team. Pending school board approval, Keith Koehne comes to Lakota as the new Executive Director of Curriculum & Instruction. Lori Brown has been approved by the board as the new Director of Gifted Services.

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Lakota's Union, Ridge Announce New Principals

06/20/2017

Lakota Local Schools is pleased to announce the appointment of two Lakota veterans as the new leaders at Union Elementary and Ridge Junior School for the 2017-2018 school year. Stepping into the principal role at Ridge Junior is Ben Brown, who has led the Union Elementary community for the last five years. Replacing Brown will be Union’s Assistant Principal Kyle Lichey.

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Lakota Receives Auditor of State Award

06/02/2017

A recent financial audit of Lakota Local Schools by the Auditor of State’s office has returned a clean audit report. Lakota’s excellent record keeping has earned it the Auditor of State Award.

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School Supply Lists Now Available

06/01/2017

Get ready for those back-to-school sales! Supply lists for the 2017-18 school year are now available. Click below to view the lists by school. High school students will receive supply lists from their teachers when school starts.

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Lakota Schools Summer Office Hours

06/01/2017

For parents’ convenience, the main offices at all Lakota schools will only be closed to the public for two weeks out of the summer, from June 26 through July 7. Lakota’s Summer School office will be open during this time and available to assist with summer programming questions.

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Destination Imagination Teams Wrap Up Successful Year

05/31/2017

Eight Lakota teams participated and one place sixth in the State in recent Destination Imagination STEM challenge-based competitions.

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Lakota East's Engineering Club Project Offers Mobility, Freedom

05/29/2017

Students from the Butler Tech Introduction to Engineering Design class at Lakota East and the school’s Engineering Club may have been pleased with their recently completed project – but the children and their families who received the projects could hardly contain their excitement.

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Lakota's Newest Tradition a Huge Success for Seniors, Elementary Students and Parents

05/28/2017

Lakota’s new “Parade of Graduates” was wildly popular with all who attended – from the graduating seniors who appreciated the support and encouragement to the elementary students who lined the halls and greeted the older students with high-fives, cheering and lots of enthusiasm.

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Lakota Encouraging Literacy Over Summer Break

05/26/2017

Lakota's informal literacy initiatives make books available to students outside of the classroom and incorporate parental involvement.

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Family, Friends Gather to Honor Lakota Graduates

05/25/2017

Streamers and confetti filled the air at Xavier’s Cintas Center last week in celebration of Lakota’s Class of 2017. Lakota East held its ceremony on Thursday to honor its 692 graduates, with Lakota West hosting its commencement exercises the following evening for 608 graduating seniors.

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Lakota Teachers Honored for Exceptional Commitment, Compassion

05/25/2017

The Community Foundation of West Chester/Liberty led the charge in naming the 2017 recipients of the Lakota Educator of Excellence Award this week. The highest staff honor, directed by community nominations, were presented to: Cynthia (Cindy) Sorrell, first grade teacher at Wyandot Elementary School; and Jennifer Akers, music teacher at Hopewell Junior School.

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Woodland Sixth Graders Best in STEM Competition

05/17/2017

Woodland Elementary’s sixth-grade team of Jasmine Baker, Grace Bradley, Veronica Geiger, and Sydney Kerlin topped the state in the 15th annual eCybermission competition. The contest is one of several science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) initiatives sponsored by the U.S. Army Educational Outreach Program.

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Lakota East's Choirs Perform at Disney, Earn State Superior Ratings

05/15/2017

Six Lakota East choirs - with a total of 183 parents, students and chaperones - recently returned from a weeklong trip to Disney World where they participated in the annual Disney choral festival. The Singing Thunderhawks performed in concerts and were judged by professional musicians and college professionals from across the nation. Choirs from throughout the US were represented at the three-day event.

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Open Enrollment Registration Information for 2017-18

05/15/2017

Each school year, the Lakota Board of Education can choose to approve the renewal of Lakota’s open enrollment policy. Under Board Policy 5113, students residing in other Ohio school districts can apply to attend Lakota. Additionally, the Board of Education set its district cap for the upcoming school year during their April 10, 2017 Board meeting.

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Lakota's "Transition to Work" Program Bolsters Skills, Independence

05/10/2017

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Barb Bossu Awards Celebrate Volunteer Spirit, Dedication to Lakota

05/09/2017

During the annual Barb Bossu Volunteer Spirit awards, volunteers from each Lakota school were recognized for their positive spirit, dedication to the students and true examples of caring and commitment. The awards were established in 1990 in memory of a dedicated Lakota parent, Barb Bossu, to commemorate her enthusiastic spirit and giving nature.

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Lakota East, West Honor the "Top 25"

05/08/2017

All across the district, year-end ceremonies are taking place to honor the academic achievements of our students. At the high schools, the “Top 25” students, representing approximately the upper 4% of their graduating class, were recently recognized during some special celebrations.

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Write Challenge Reception Honors Lakota Writers

05/05/2017

A "Celebration of Writing" was held last week to honor the winners of the annual Write Challenge contest for Lakota students in grades K- 12. The competition (sponsored by the Lakota LEADS parent group) encouraged Lakota students to submit narrative essays, personal essays or poetry focused on a theme – this year’s theme was “risk."

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Authentic Learning Experiences Engage Students

05/04/2017

Designing bridges, buying and selling stocks, planning a dream backyard – all tasks you associate with engineers, stockbrokers, and architects. But elementary students across the district are engaging in these activities as part of the initiative to incorporate authentic learning experiences into instruction.

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Celebrating the Lakota Class of 2017

04/28/2017

Graduation ceremonies for Lakota's Class of 2017 will take place at Xavier's Cintas Center. Lakota East's ceremony is on Thursday, May 18 at 7 p.m.; Lakota West will hold their event the next evening, May 19 at 8 p.m. Following tradition, each school’s valedictorian and salutatorian will have an opportunity to address their peers, family and friends in attendance.

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VanGorden Partners with Junior Achievement to Share Lessons on Entrepreneurship

04/26/2017

Junior Achievement (JA) works with Lakota on a number of programs to help promote business education – everything from coordinating job shadowing field trips for junior high students to teaching classroom lessons on economics and business concepts to elementary students. This year, all VanGorden Elementary fourth-graders get to participate in a five-week program on entrepreneurship. Volunteers from JA visit for an hour once a week, sharing their workforce experience and presenting the lessons and activities prepared by Junior Achievement.

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New Program at Cherokee Focuses on Building Community, Boys' Leadership Skills

04/25/2017

According to Cherokee Elementary Counselor Audrey Young, the “three H’s” form a solid foundation for young males. Through a new program designed for 4-6 grade boys, she says, “We focus on heart, humility and honesty, helping these students understand their relationships with others and their own selves.”

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Parents, Community Invited to Lakota's New Parade of Graduates

04/24/2017

Imagine a procession of graduating seniors, dressed in their caps and gowns, parading past cheering elementary-aged students who are lining the halls of their school. On Monday, May 15, that is exactly what will take place in each Lakota elementary building.

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East Freshman Students Hone Philanthropy Skills Through Magnified Giving

04/21/2017

How do you choose? How can you select one out of the many worthwhile causes to support? “We all have limited resources, so part of the process of donating your time and financial support is learning how to select where to allocate your gifts,” explains Heather Campbell-Liberman, teacher at Lakota East Freshman. That’s why she incorporates a charity research project into her class.

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West Choir Wins $1000, Featured in Car Commercials

04/21/2017

Lakota West's choir recently accepted a $1,000 check from Jake Sweeney Automotive in recognition of their winning the company's 100 year jingle contest. In addition to the donation, which will be used to support the school's performing arts groups, the choir is being featured on radio and TV advertisements for the car dealership.

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After Prom Previews Open to the Community

04/19/2017

If you haven’t been to a Lakota After Prom Preview before, make it a point to do it this year. Lakota East’s theme is “Road Trip” and the school’s Main Street will be transformed with city skylines, campsites, and even the Golden Gate Bridge! Lakota West will become one giant carnival, complete with boardwalk games, jugglers, carnival food and more.

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Community Partners Help Independence Elementary Celebrate Character and Career Day

04/12/2017

This year, Independence put a new twist on its character education program and 32 community partners volunteered to help.

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Lakota Welcomes SanMar to Business Internship Program

04/07/2017

Lakota Local Schools is proud to welcome SanMar Corporation as the newest member of its business internship program, adding to its growing portfolio of high school student internships. This brings the district’s total count to 19 local businesses supporting career exploration and regional workforce development among Lakota high school students.

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Lakota East Quads Make National News, All Accepted to Several Ivy League Schools

04/06/2017

Congratulations to the Wade brothers, Lakota East seniors who all have been accepted to Ivy League schools. Read on to see the news coverage about the Wade brothers.

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Summer Internship Options Continue Expanding

04/05/2017

For many students, summer break is a time to relax from learning, perhaps working a part-time job and relaxing with friends. However, for some Lakota high schoolers, it is the perfect opportunity to sharpen their professional skills while learning the inside scoop about careers of interest to them.

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Lakota's March Madness Tournament Sets Records

03/31/2017

Lakota’s March Madness Charity Basketball Tournament just wrapped up its 18th year – and is still setting records. The tournament gives Lakota’s elementary schools a chance to form their own basketball teams, and compete against one another for a chance at the championship trophy for each grade level.

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VanGorden, Woodland Announce New Assistant Principals

03/30/2017

Lakota Local Schools is pleased to announce the appointment of two new leaders at VanGorden Elementary and Woodland Elementary for the 2017-2018 school year. Succeeding the current assistant principals, both of which have decided to return to the classroom next school year, are Julie Engelbert at VanGorden and Liz Gruber at Woodland.

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Lakota High School Students Create Award-Winning Artwork

03/29/2017

Lakota’s talented high school art students are bringing home top state and national awards for their drawings, paintings, printmaking, photography and other artwork.

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Local Business Community Experiences Levy Dollars at Work

03/22/2017

The local business community got just a taste of what Lakota students – and their future workforce – are now experiencing in the classroom when it comes to the district’s follow-through on a levy promise to boost instructional technology.

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Two Local 'Heroes of Character' Have Lakota Ties

03/21/2017

Two of the 10 area leaders recently honored as “Heroes of Character” have Lakota ties. Lakota West sophomore Zach Merrill and Lakota Board of Education member Lynda O’Connor were honored with the group at the sixth annual Heroes of Character event on March 15.

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Shawnee, VanGorden Next in Lakota's Expansion of STEAM Labs

03/20/2017

Both Shawnee ECS and VanGorden Elementary recently launched their STEAM labs, designed to bolster early learning and exposure to science, technology, engineering, applied arts & design, mathematics and medical fields.

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Panel Discussion Promotes Open Dialogue

03/20/2017

Sometimes the hardest questions to ask are the ones that can provide the most insight. A recent panel surrounding race relations at Lakota West gave students the option to anonymously ask their questions to adults they respect and interact with every week.

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High School Students Take Home TechOlympics Awards

03/16/2017

Over 500 students from over 50 high schools recently participated in TechOlympics 2017, the largest IT conference for high school students in the nation. Students heard keynote addresses by leaders in IT and education, attended breakout sessions on IT topics, participated in mock interviews, and competed in a variety of competitions. Lakota was well represented by 87 students in attendance from both East and West.

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New FUSE Program Builds Union Fifth-Graders' Interpersonal Skills

03/14/2017

Taking the time to listen to one another and developing authentic relationships may seem like a lost art in these times of social media and text messaging, but last week Union fifth-graders came together as a community to "ignite" their interpersonal skills. It’s all part of a new workshop for elementary students called FUSE.

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Math Competition Stretches Junior High Students

03/14/2017

Lakota students took part in the recent MathCounts competition, as well as the Math Bowl at the University of Cincinnati.

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Deadline for Summer School Registration is April 7

03/13/2017

Summer school registration for students in grades 7-12 closes soon; students that want to enroll in summer school need to submit their registration no later than April 7. This includes all math advancement requests. Registrations will not be accepted after this deadline. Those taking Credit Recovery, OGT, and EOC courses will continue to be able to register after this deadline – see Summer School webpage for details.

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Help Decide Lakota's Educators of Excellence, Nominations Due April 7

03/09/2017

Following with tradition, the Community Foundation of West Chester/Liberty is partnering with Lakota Schools to recognize and honor excellent educators from the Lakota School District. The organization is currently seeking nominations from the Lakota community.

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College Credit Plus “Intent to Participate Form” Due March 31

03/09/2017

Students who will be in grades 7-12 next fall and who want to participate in the College Credit Plus (CCP) program need to submit an “intent to participate” form to their school guidance office no later than March 31.

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Nominations Sought for Barb Bossu Volunteer Spirit Awards

03/08/2017

Nominations are being accepted now through March 27 for the 2017 district Barb Bossu Volunteer Spirit award. Please check with each school for nomination forms and deadlines for school volunteer awards.

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Lakota's Digital Learning Week Highlights Technology Strides Since Levy Passage

03/06/2017

Lakota schools recently celebrated National Digital Learning Day through a variety of activities, all focused on using technology to bolster learning. In fact, there were so many related events, the district had to expand it to an entire week.

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Local Business Leaders Visit Heritage, Get Inside Look at Lakota

03/06/2017

Heritage Elementary recently hosted nearly 30 members of the business community participating in the West Chester Liberty Chamber Alliance’s Leadership21 program. The visit was part of the group’s February focus on educational institutions serving our community.

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Credit Means Recent Fee Reduction Impacts More Students

03/03/2017

Lakota junior high and high school students, who participated in a sport, band, or color guard this past fall, will be receiving a monetary credit to apply to any future Lakota school fee.

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Students Take the Stage for Upcoming Theatre Productions

03/03/2017

Junior High and High School Students will soon be taking the stage for several plays/musicals. Tickets are on sale now.

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Shawnee Students Celebrate Read Across America

Shawnee ECS Celebrates Read Across America Day

03/02/2017

National Read Across America Day was on Wednesday and Shawnee Early Childhood School celebrated it in a big way, turning it into a full week of fun activities.

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Secondary Summer School Registration Now Underway

03/01/2017

Summer school registration is now open for students in grades 7-12. Summer school will be held from May 30 through July 7 (with no classes on July 3 and 4); all classes will take place at the Lakota East Freshman School.

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Lakota Tackles Recruitment Season with Inaugural Job Expo

02/27/2017

A job expo may not be the industry norm for public education. But it’s a strategy Ohio’s eighth largest public school district is taking to help recruit a diverse pool of candidates for both teaching and support positions. Going into the 2017-2018 school year, Lakota Local Schools is gearing up for a busy recruitment season starting with its inaugural Job Expo on Saturday, March 11.

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Lakota Pi Day Features Hands-on Math and Science Activities

02/24/2017

LEADS Pi Day 2017 is almost here! This fun evening is set for Friday, March 10 from 6:30 – 9:00 p.m. at Lakota East High School Main Campus. Pi Day will feature hands-on science and math adventures such as robotics, 3D Printers, electromagnetic shocks, a human brain, live animals, and much more.

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junior high gifted students who won t-shirt competition

Junior High Gifted Programs Partner with UC to Combine Learning, Service

02/21/2017

Gifted students at Lakota’s junior high schools recently competed in a project that stretched their thinking and will benefit a local non-profit. Hosted by the University of Cincinnati’s Economics Center, teams of students were to select a non-profit, then create a T-shirt design to be sold so the proceeds can support that organization.

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Pennies for Patients group at Liberty ECS

Liberty ECS Collects "Pennies for Patients" as Community Service Project

02/17/2017

Penny by penny, coin by coin – the jars quickly filled, thanks to the generosity of students and staff at Liberty Early Childhood School. The recent community service project blasted through the goal, raising $3,488.97, which is a school record.

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Cherokee, VanGorden Students Create 3D Prosthetic Hand to Help Child in Need

02/16/2017

As part of the third grade curriculum for Lakota’s elementary technology class, Cherokee Elementary students learn about the functionality of a 3D printer along with the possibilities of what it can currently print. But perhaps the biggest lesson they’ve learned is how a 3D printer can impact their lives – and the lives of others.

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Lakota to Induct 8 Members into the Athletic Hall of Fame

02/15/2017

The 19th annual dinner and induction ceremony to honor the newest members of the Lakota Athletic Hall of Fame will be held on Thursday, March 23 at 6:00 p.m. at the Wetherington Golf & Country Club.

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Lakota School Board Votes to Employ Miller as Superintendent

02/10/2017

The Lakota Local Schools Board of Education unanimously voted to employ Mr. Matthew Miller as the next superintendent of Ohio’s eighth largest public school district this evening. The vote took place during a special meeting where Miller and his family were present.

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Lakota School Board Selects Miller as Next Superintendent

02/10/2017

The Lakota Board of Education plans to take action at a special meeting this evening on the employment of Mr. Matthew Miller as the next superintendent to help lead Ohio’s eighth largest public school district serving about 16,500 students.

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Plains Junior’s Beta Club Earns National Beta School of Distinction Award

02/09/2017

It’s a record year for the Beta Club at Plains Junior School. The club is 127-members strong this school year – the highest count ever. The growth of the group has earned the club the National Beta School of Distinction Award. The Beta Club is an honors and service club open to Plains’ eighth grade students who meet strict academic requirements.

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Lakota First Lego Team Headed to World Championship

02/08/2017

Countless hours of hard work since the start of the school year are paying off for a group of Hopewell Junior students. They are part of the Lakota neighborhood First Lego team called Scientific Touch. Out of 512 registered teams in Ohio, Scientific Touch was one of just two teams that advances on to the First Lego League World Festival in St. Louis, Missouri.

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New Video Features Lakota’s Career Readiness Academy

02/04/2017

Lakota’s new Career Readiness Academy is the definition of personalized education – and one example of Lakota’s commitment to providing a range of options to set students up for success.

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Lakota West’s Peer Mentoring Group ‘A Safe Place to Share’

02/03/2017

According to Lakota West senior Jada Dunn, the best aspect of participating in the school’s peer mentoring group is that “We get to talk about what’s bugging us and to get others’ perspective. We can share anything as it’s a safe environment and we know there will be encouragement from the others.”

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High Schools Host National Signing Day Ceremonies

02/01/2017

On February 1, Lakota celebrated twenty-six senior student-athletes’ during the NCAA national letter of intent signing day. Both Lakota high schools held ceremonies to honor the accomplishments of these students who will continue their education while playing a sport in college.

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