K-6 Learning

Lakota teachers utilize the Multi-Tiered Systems of Support (MTSS) framework to provide a personalized learning experience for every single child. This data-driven model helps teachers identify individual academic needs in the form of gifted services, intervention or English as a Second Language (ESL) support. Classroom teachers also use assessments to help inform their delivery of appropriate instruction to all students. 

Lakota works hard to meet students where they are in their learning, providing specialized support through Special Education Services, Gifted Services and English as a Second Language (ESL), for example. Students in grades 2-6 may identify for gifted services in math and/or English Language Arts (ELA). Separately, sixth-graders may qualify for Advanced ELA, math, science and social studies, which cover the same grade-level learning standards in greater depth or for some subjects, cross over into higher grade level standards.

Our innovative elementary STEAM labs, called WonderLabs in our early childhood schools, give students early exposure to the STEAM fields - science, technology, engineering, applied arts/design and mathematics. The approach is all about intersecting these high-demand career fields with the ability to inquire, problem-solve, collaborate as a team, and communicate more effectively.

Our early childhood and elementary learners also participate in year-round daily specials. This daily rotation provides different learning experiences in the areas of art, music, physical education, technology, STEAM, and social/emotional learning.  

A mobile WonderBus, outfitted by Lakota's curriculum team with STEAM activities, is available to inspire wonder and curiosity in our community. 

We believe in empowering every student to be “future-ready." The Portrait of a Lakota Graduate outlines the skills, characteristics and attributes that WE as a community desire to see in every learner who graduates from Lakota. At Lakota, the Portrait guides the student learning experience from kindergarten through high school. 

The tool aligns the pillars of Lakota's strategic plan and provides clearly defined skills for future success in one of the four Es: Enrollment, Employment, Enlistment or Entrepreneurship. 

Elementary school is a crucial time when students transition from learning to read to reading to learn,  primarily through exposure to informational text. Our curriculum combines structured phonics instruction with content-based literacy, simultaneously enabling students to build knowledge and reading skills. Vocabulary development is emphasized through deep engagement with content-based text and learning words in context. By progressively working with increasingly complex texts throughout the school year and grade levels, students enhance their comprehension abilities and develop skills in speaking and writing grounded in text evidence, preparing them for college and career readiness.

Character education is an important component to our curriculum at Lakota, at all grade levels, but especially at the elementary level. Lakota schools follow a concept known as Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports, or PBIS, which centers around guiding principles like respect, integrity, positivity, citizenship, compassion, and teamwork.

In addition to supporting Ohio's Social & Emotional Learning Standards in the traditional classroom setting and our SEL special, Lakota also follows the requirements of House Bill 123, the "Safety & Violence Education (SAVE) Students Act."

Also, counselors and therapists, in partnership with the district's MindPeace therapists, support our students' mental wellness. These individuals are available to assist students individually or in small group settings with strategies that support managing emotions, setting and achieving positive goals, feeling and showing empathy for others, establishing and maintaining positive relationships and making responsible decisions.