Our School

Welcome to Lakota Preschool!

VanGorden Elementary is home to the majority of Lakota's preschool program (this does not include Head Start classrooms). Some classroom space is also used at Liberty ECS.

In response to a federal mandate, the Lakota Local School District, in 1990, developed a preschool program to serve children 3 – 5 years of age with a wide range of disabilities qualifying for special education services. A program model was then adopted to also include a tuition-based option for children with typical development in order to provide for a more appropriate and enriching learning experience.

The program provides a nurturing environment that supports the intellectual, academic and social growth of young children. It is designed to serve both students with a range of disabilities as well as typical preschool students who pay a tuition to attend.

The model is built on the premise that preschool-aged students with disabilities, as well as those with typical learning styles, can both benefit and grow academically by learning alongside one another. "Center-based classrooms" are comprised of equal numbers of both types of learners.

Lakota preschool staff promote learning through play. With this approach, children are developing skills in all areas of development: cognitive, physical, communication and social/emotional. Through play, children practice and reinforce these skills in a way that can’t be achieved through worksheets or screen time, for instance.

Parents play a key role in helping their children build early social and sharing skills at home each and every day. In preschool, children will learn how to

• Share and cooperate;
• Work together and take turns;
• Participate in group activities;
• Follow simple directions;
• Communicate wants and needs;
• Regulate emotions;
• Delay gratification; and
• Negotiate with others. 

Lakota preschool provides a snack everyday for our preschoolers. Typical snacks include goldfish crackers, yogurt, pretzels, milk, juice, etc. 

There are no school supplies required for preschool. Teachers will occasionally request donations throughout the school year. 

Lakota preschool is a half day program meeting Monday through Thursday in the mornings or afternoons; Fridays are staff-only days. Besides starting later than school-age students, the program generally follows Lakota's academic calendar. 

While preschool staff are contracted by the Butler County Educational Service Center, educators work collaboratively with Lakota's administrators to combine resources and ensure a successful transition to kindergarten. 

We look forward to serving your children and thank you for entrusting Lakota Preschool with their care!