Innovation is key to the success of Lakota Local Schools. Priding itself on being personalized, future ready, fiscally responsible and in partnership with students, staff, parents and community members, the district is thriving. The school year is in full swing, pushing to a strong finish this summer with a lot of excitement and hope. Read how Lakota is invested in our community’s future with their trailblazing efforts at the largest suburban public school district in southwest Ohio.
Dr. Ashley Whitely
Lakota Local Schools Superintendent Ashley Whitely hit the ground running when she joined the district in July. Embarking on a listening and learning journey, Whitely held over 100 sessions in a four-month period. The information gathered from staff, students, families and community members will now be used as Lakota begins creating a new strategic plan.
Some of the feedback Whitely heard will also be considered as the Board of Education and district move forward with its work on a new master facilities plan to address the district’s aging facilities and overcrowding in its schools.
“A master facilities plan that complements our long-term vision for instruction is paramount to the success of our district, so being able to delve into this work simultaneously is a tremendous opportunity,” Whitely says.
Whitely has also introduced a new video series called Let’s Go, Lakota that invites viewers into our schools to get a peek at what teaching and learning looks like at Lakota Local Schools.
“Our mantra this year has been ‘Together, WE can…’ and our focus on togetherness is continuing to inspire and support our students in reaching their full academic potential,” Whitely says. “At Lakota Local Schools, our commitment to excellence is reflected in the achievements of our students and staff.”
Elementary Economics
In her 32nd year of teaching, Adena Elementary School teacher Diane Meyer has transitioned from teaching math to social studies. Recognized as Lakota’s Elementary Educator of Excellence last year, Meyer now leads her fifth-grade class with a fresh approach. Her Meyerville Market initiative introduces students to economics and personal finance. Students earn a $5 weekly salary, with opportunities to earn more for good behavior, while also facing financial responsibilities like paying for lost items. The monthly market allows students to spend their earnings on classroom perks and negotiate for privileges. This hands-on experience has students eagerly participating, showcasing their understanding of economics and negotiation. Meyer's innovative teaching methods combine financial literacy with interactive learning, preparing students for real-world challenges.
Learning Labs
This year, Lakota’s early childhood schools have introduced a new K-2 English Language Arts curriculum that emphasizes comprehension through hands-on learning. Emily Hermann, Lakota’s Director of K-6 Curriculum, praises the labs for allowing students to creatively explore ideas and collaborate.
Principal Becky Francko is proud of the innovative approach they are taking at Hopewell ECS, where students receive an hour of instruction followed by an hour of practical application in learning labs in the school’s Innovation Hub. The school’s large hub accommodates multiple labs, with instructional aide Robin Madden curating the stations. Hopewell teacher Leader Libby Brown notes that the labs ensure equitable learning experiences. Teachers like Donna Jones appreciate the curriculum's ability to meet diverse learning styles. Positive feedback from teachers indicates increased student engagement and the effectiveness of the play-based structure in enhancing language acquisition.
Expanded Learning at Grades 7-12
Lakota's College Credit Plus (CCP) program expanded this year, offering more students the chance to earn college credit in high school.
“Up until now, our CCP courses mirrored our Advanced Placement (AP) course options, which limited the options for a broader range of students to take advantage of this really attractive program,” says Lakota’s Director of 7-12 Curriculum Andrew Wheatley.
There’s an added financial benefit for families, with the courses often fulfilling general education requirements for college majors. The new courses include psychology, sociology, government, financial literacy and English 12 credits.
Diversifying CCP offerings also aims to enhance Lakota’s performance on Ohio’s new College, Career, Workforce & Military (CCWM) report card component, measuring graduates' readiness for post-secondary education, the workforce or military service. There has been a 78 percent increase in CCP courses taken this year.
In Lakota’s junior schools, the new Flight & Space elective, offered through a partnership with Butler Tech, engages seventh and eighth graders in hands-on, project-based learning. Students design, prototype and test models to learn about flight and space. Students in Ethan Hodge’s class at Liberty Junior School used Codrone EDU drones to learn programming and operation, culminating in the TRUST drone certification. The class covers topics like moon landings and Mars missions, inspiring students to explore careers in aviation and space.
Watch for more news about the exciting programming that makes Lakota Local Schools a leader in PreK-12 education online. LakotaOnline.com
“At Lakota Local Schools, our commitment to excellence is reflected in the achievements of our students and staff.” -Dr. Ashley Whitely, Superintendent
"Lakota's College Credit Plus (CCP) program expanded this year, offering more students the chance to earn college credit in high school."