'That school' now a success story

After nine years of hard work, Lake Road Elementary made being known as “that school” something positive.

Lake Road earned the status of being named a National Blue Ribbon School last October. This program recognizes schools where students achieve at very high levels or that make significant progress in closing the achievement gap. The Blue Ribbon Schools Program sets a standard of excellence for all schools striving for the highest level of achievement.

“We were ‘that school’ known for low academic achievement, poor attendance and behaviors that were out of control,” Lake Road Principal Erica Weadon said earlier this week during a showcase for the community. “We wanted to be known as more than just ‘that school.’”

Weadon, who took the helm of Lake Road nine years ago, and her staff constructed a vision for the school and wanted to be known for more at the community, state and national levels.

During the Blue Ribbon showcase, community members were invited to Lake Road, as they often are, to learn why and how an elementary school with over 400 office referrals in 2010 obtained the highest achievement for a school.

The climate was completely changed. Office referrals are now below 40 for this school year.

Once the teachers had the students hearts, they had their minds to teach.

It is obvious the administration and teachers at Lake Road have the hearts of the students. The children are respectful, caring, kind and actually enjoying being at school learning.

Teachers have individual handshakes with their students, create signature claps and promote student affirmations with one another. New friendships are forming and the students feel as if they have someone they can confide in if needed.

Not only is the climate a positive at Lake Road, but the students are learning at an earlier age and utilizing technology while becoming engaged in their own education.

Test scores have continued to rise and stay up to confirm what Lake Road has implemented is working.

Good work and congratulations to everyone at Lake Road Elementary. We can’t wait to see what you accomplish next.