Lakota East Freshman Building: A Foundation for Learning
Lakota East High School, a public four-year high school located in Liberty Township, Ohio, stands as a testament to the growth and evolution of the Lakota Local School District. This district encompasses both West Chester and Liberty Townships. Originally a unified entity under Lakota High School, the district's expansion in 1997 led to the creation of Lakota East and Lakota West High Schools. This article delves into the history of Lakota East, with a particular focus on the Lakota East Freshman Building.
The Genesis of Lakota East
The story of Lakota East begins with the overcrowding issues faced by the unified Lakota High School. In 1997, the district made the decision to expand and construct two new high schools: Lakota East and Lakota West. These schools were built to be physically identical, symbolizing the district's commitment to providing equal opportunities for all students.
From Unified School to Two High Schools
Before the construction of Lakota East and West, all students attended Lakota High School. According to research conducted through yearbooks from 1963 to 2024, Lakota High School consisted of just 458 students, all housed in what is now known as the West Freshman Building when it opened in 1959. The decision to split the district was made in the winter months of 1994, when voters decided to split the Lakota District into two. The 1996-1997 school year marked the final time all Lakota students would be under the same roof for high school. The construction of the new schools began in 1996 and ended shortly before the first day of school for the 1997 school year. These new schools introduced many advantages and new technologies that the old building did not: for one, air conditioning could be found within the new schools.
The Freshman Building: A New Beginning
In 2009, a significant change occurred within the Lakota East structure. The old Lakota Freshman School was split, and a brand new building was constructed specifically for Lakota East freshmen. This demonstrated the district's dedication to providing a tailored and supportive environment for students transitioning into high school.
A Glimpse into Lakota's Past
To understand the significance of the Lakota East Freshman Building, it is helpful to look at the history of Lakota High School. The early yearbooks, dating back to 1963, offer a glimpse into a different era. Homecoming celebrations lacked specific themes, the faculty was smaller, and yearbooks contained less information about student culture. However, these early yearbooks were rich in text, providing valuable insights into the school's activities, clubs, and sports. The 1960s were a time of firsts: the first musical produced by students, the first graduating classes from Lakota, as well as a changing and newly developing culture for students. These yearbooks focused on clubs, sports, and the events that students got to experience. Little information about student life was found in these years, just stats, names, and a few photos of student gatherings.
Read also: Exploring Lakota West's Freshman Building
Notable classes students could take in 1967 included French, Spanish, and Latin I and II, Business & Marketing Education, Accounting, and Family Living. Students also had the opportunity to join a variety of clubs, including National Honor Society (NHS), Quiz Team, Ski Club, Yearbook Club (LEGEND Yearbook), Future Teachers of America (FTA), Volleyball, Track, and Golf.
The 1970s saw the addition of new classrooms, art rooms, an auditorium, and a gym to Lakota High School. This expanded the back area of the building and allowed students to not have oversized classrooms. In 1977, the new Lakota Freshman Building (today Creekside Early Childhood) opened, as well as the media center and courtyard being added to Lakota High School.
The 1980s introduced a new culture for students at Lakota. Friendships became family, strangers became peers, and teachers became valued mentors. Entering the 90s, Lakota had finally hit its golden years, with growing class sizes and reliable staffing to make the district a great place to be. Aside from recognition and visits from notable members of the United States Government and the Board of Education, Lakota had built a name for itself and broken the expectations of any district around them.
Changes and Developments
Throughout the years, Lakota High School underwent several changes and developments. The yearbooks document these changes, including new additions to the school facilities, the introduction of new clubs and activities, and shifts in student culture.
In the winter months of 1994, voters decided to split the Lakota District into two. The final years of Lakota High School were bittersweet, and students made the most of it and embodied the Lakota spirit even through the new challenges and opportunities thrown their way.
Read also: Lakota Language Guide
In 1979, a brand new “Smoking Pit Advisory Committee” allowed students of Lakota High School to smoke on school grounds, but only in a specified location. More clubs were mentioned in this yearbook that went unmentioned beforehand: Math Club, Mu Alpha Theta, “It’s Academic,” Trivia Club, Chess Club, and the WLHS Radio Club.
In the 1980s, plans were introduced to expand the school library by 1200 square feet, as well as build more onto the gym. A large new club, known as the “Students Against Drunk Drivers” group, was introduced for students.
In 1989, Lakota High School was honored to have the 2nd Lady (wife of the Vice President), Marilyn Quayle, visit the high school, where she spoke to government classes, as well as the Lakota peer counselors for their anti-drug efforts in the school.
In 1993, Lakota High School received the prestigious “Blue Ribbon Award” from the United States Department of Education. This award was only given to eleven secondary schools in the state of Ohio. The front lawn of Lakota High School was made into the now-familiar parking spaces for seniors to use.
In 1994, the Lakota Chorale took a trip to Washington, D.C., for the 50th anniversary of the “Allied Liberation of the World.” This celebration was based on the defeat of Japan and Germany 50 years earlier, marking the end of WWII. The Spark newspaper was awarded the “Best of Show Award” from the National Scholastic Press Association (NSPA).
Read also: Do Colleges Care?
The Lakota East Thunderhawk
Lakota East's mascot is the Thunderhawk, a symbol of the school's spirit and determination. The Thunderhawk represents the energy and enthusiasm that students bring to their studies, extracurricular activities, and athletic competitions.
Lakota East Today
Lakota East High School continues to be a thriving educational institution, providing students with a wide range of academic, athletic, and extracurricular opportunities. The school is committed to fostering a supportive and inclusive environment where all students can reach their full potential.
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