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Back-to-School

Welcome from the Headmaster

Dear Parents, Grandparents, and Guardians,

Welcome to the 2018-19 school year at Lakehill Preparatory School. We are grateful that you have chosen our school for your children’s education, and we are committed to having a positive impact on their lives. Education is a life-long endeavor, and we are honored to work with you and your children during this stage of their development.

As I walked through the halls this week, I have been energized by the enthusiasm of our teachers, the excitement of our students, and the opportunities available to all of us at Lakehill. This is a particularly special year for me, as my granddaughter Kennedy joined us for kindergarten.

Lakehill Preparatory School has an impressive history that spans 47 years of creating opportunities for our students. While we are small by design, our close-knit community provides many possibilities for involvement. Lakehill students can find themselves immersed in the arts, athletics, academics, leadership responsibilities, and community service. Our students are fortunate that our size strongly dictates involvement over exclusivity so that everyone has their moment to shine.

These moments teach our students the life skills necessary to be successful in school, in their family lives, and in their future careers. They are able to attend the colleges of their choice while simultaneously being athletes, performers, writers, scientists, artists, and community leaders.

Each of us wants to be part of a strong, secure, and caring community, one in which we are valued and supported. Our goal is that every student and adult in the Lakehill family will have a safe, small place to accomplish big things.

Our faculty members continue to set the standard with their experience and innovative teaching. We are joined by seven new faculty and staff members, and I look forward to introducing them to you. We have 48 new students, from around the city and around the globe, and we welcome them each to our school.

Our dedicated faculty has been busy this summer, taking advantage of a variety of professional development opportunities to better serve our students. The Lower School faculty attended “Capturing Kids Hearts” training. This program will enable them to have a consistent vocabulary and methodology across grade levels to guide our younger students in appropriately handling their daily social interactions. We will benefit from new classes and curriculum in all divisions, including Engineering and Design for Upper School, LEGO Robotics for Middle School, and Wonders Language Arts curriculum for Lower School, while maintaining our strong, long-standing academic, fine arts, and athletic offerings.

We are grateful for the generous gifts from the Parent Faculty Club (PFC). These gifts range from furniture in the Student Commons and GaGa Ball Pits for the Lower and Middle Schools to new and improved technology and a generous contribution to the endowment fund. Thank you to the many parents who give so generously of their time, energy, and financial resources. All gifts, regardless of size, impact the lives of our students.

Thank you to all of you who weathered the storm with us at the Back-to-school Picnic. Despite the wild weather, it was wonderful to have our Lakehill family back together. I hope you will make plans to join us on September 6, for Parents Open House and on September 14, for the annual Tailgate Party and football game.

As a school community, we have much to celebrate. It is going to be an exceptional year in many ways, and I can hardly wait to join you for the exciting journey we are about to embark on together.

Lakehill is a small place to do big things.

Sincerely,
See more pictures from the first day of school.
Categories
Back-to-School

Opening Doors…Transforming Lives

Dear Parents, Grandparents, and Guardians,

Welcome to the 2017-2018 school year at Lakehill Preparatory School. This has really been an exciting summer. So much has happened to our campus in such a short period of time, and it has been fun to watch the daily developments and transformations. We are so excited to have you here on our newly enriched campus. The addition of 16,000 square feet and the renovation of an additional 8,000 square feet of existing space are already transforming the way we teach, learn, and live at Lakehill.

With the construction of our new facility now completed, there is a palpable revitalization of energy, excitement, and creativity. Members of the faculty have been attending professional development opportunities throughout the summer and are eagerly exploring new ideas and teaching strategies. They have also been busy planning a variety of ways that our new resources will augment their teaching strategies and are eager to share their new ideas.

After more than a year of building new spaces to help re-envision education at Lakehill and redefine opportunities for our students, we are ready to open new doors. This year is about new learning spaces, new ways of thinking about teaching, and new ways of interacting with each other. The completion of our new facilities, coupled with this revitalization of energy, could not be timelier. This year, in anticipation of our ISAS Accreditation, we will be concluding a year-long Self-Study where we will reflect on where we have been, where we are, and what future direction we want to take. This process will secure the vision for our school and enable us to continue serving our students and transforming lives. We thank you for your patience over the past 15 months. We can’t wait to see where the future takes us.

Warm regards,
Roger L. Perry
Headmaster

Categories
Back-to-School

A Warm Welcome

By Haley James
First Grade Teacher, Lakehill Preparatory School

As a teacher, I frequently reflect on my experiences as a student. I hope never to lose that perspective; embracing the methods of the teachers I loved, and vowing never to mimic the ones I did not admire.

Shortly into my year as a first grade student, I switched schools. It was the only time in my life where I experienced being “the new kid.” It was terrifying. I was scared of my new teacher. I got lost in the labyrinth of hallways searching for the restroom. All of my classmates already knew each other, and I was the odd one out.

I did not feel that same apprehension again, until I became a new teacher at Lakehill. I joined a new school at the last minute. But this time, my experience was completely different. Since my first day, I felt completely welcomed by parents, students, and teachers. Everyone went out of their way to introduce themselves, and to offer a helping hand.

That’s a rare thing, and I wondered what made Lakehill different. When I learned about the Triangle Rules, specifically the Welcome Rule, it dawned on me. The Welcome Rule is so embedded in the culture of Lakehill that it has become second nature for everyone. Every single day I watch children including each other. I see teachers mentoring new members. It is clear that the Welcome Rule goes all the way to the top with Mr. Perry greeting each child in the morning.

Lakehill is not like most schools. And that’s a beautiful thing.

haley-james

 

Categories
Back-to-School Technology Traditions

Off and Running

By Lara Gajkowski, Assistant Headmaster
Lakehill Preparatory School

We are quickly nearing one of my favorite events of the year – Trek for Tech.

I love Trek for Tech for several reasons. It is our best avenue for ensuring that our school is equipped with the latest advances in technology. It is also a time that I more seriously train to run (following Coach Karen Owens’s Training Schedule), and I renew my yearly pledge to challenge myself physically, mentally, and creatively.

As I was running/walking my three miles last night, I thought about all of our students and a sudden rush of mental connectedness and empathy came over me. The first few weeks of a school year are challenging. The first few weeks of training are challenging. As I was struggling with my ¼ mile running lap, concentrating on my strides, breathing, and self-talking (“You can do this”), I thought, this is how the kids must feel. They are concentrating on getting to class, keeping up with their studies and activities, and self-talking (“I can do this”). I was humbled and encouraged by the daunting fortitude it takes to be a Lakehill student. I thought, if the kids can do it, I should give my best effort. Newly inspired, I wiped my brow and ran another lap.

I hope you will join me in my support of our students and our common journey of striving and working to be the best we can. I challenge you to challenge yourself. Coach Karen is only a walk/run away.

Save the date for Trek for Tech – Saturday, November 5, 2016.

Look for more information on Coach Karen’s Couch to 5K in the September 22 issue of The Warrior Weekly.

 Trek for Tech

 

Categories
Back-to-School

Finding the Joy

Becca and RJ Yttredahl, with mother Renee, greet Roger Perry at the front door.
Becca and RJ Yttredahl, with mother Renee, greet Roger Perry at the front door.

By Bob Yttredahl, Parent of RJ (4th grade) and Becca (kindergarten)

We, as a society, take things for granted. We are selfish and refuse to take the time to look around and be thankful for the things/people in our lives. Instead, we focus on a bigger house…the next trip…a newer car….a bigger paycheck…..signing our kids up for multiple activities. We are caught up in this whirlwind called life.

 

All of this finally surfaced for me this morning – on our first day of school. With all of the anxiety, excitement and trepidation that comes with the first day of school – I found my calm – my joy.

 

My kids are in a safe environment where the adults treat them like their own. I didn’t walk away concerned or nervous. I walked away feeling “lucky” to have them in such a great place. They are going to be challenged and loved and disciplined and guided….and successful.

 

So shame on me if I don’t step out of the whirlwind for a minute and be thankful. Thankful for Lakehill and Headmaster Roger Perry and the school he has created. It’s not about brick and mortar he tells us. Its about the people inside it.

 

Stop – reflect – be thankful – don’t take it for granted. We are more than lucky to have our kids at Lakehill.

Categories
Heath and Wellness

Enterovirus EV-D68

By Dr. Kelly A. Johnson, MD

Due to increased concerns about viral respiratory illnesses, I wanted to update everyone on Enterovirus EV-D68.

Enterovirus EV-D68: When are antibiotics needed? Never!!!

Enterovirus EV-D68 is a respiratory virus. There are over 100 types of enteroviruses, and they are responsible for the common cold. EV-D68 is more rarely seen and the CDC is not sure why it has resurfaced this year. It does tend to historically cause more severe cold symptoms than the more common strains. Usually the beginning of a new school year is when enteroviral colds start in increase in number.

The important thing to remember is to not panic! This is a cold. However, this is a severe cold virus, so certain populations (asthmatics, infants) of children are being hospitalized due to wheezing and difficulty breathing. If your child has asthma, has an inhaler or nebulizer at home, or is younger than five years old; they are at increased risk for severe wheezing. They will need to be monitored closely. Asthmatics will need to have an aggressive wheezing action plan in place if this virus becomes epidemic in Texas. Healthy kids over five years will most likely have moderate to severe cold symptoms that will subside after a few days like any other cold.

There is no cure for the common cold, even severe ones like EV-D68. Doctors can only treat symptoms like wheezing and wait for the body to heal. Antibiotics will not prevent or treat this illness. By next year, CDC may have developed an immunization similar to the flu shot, but that will not happen in time to help with this outbreak.

Prevention is our best defense. As usual, prevention is good hand washing, covering our cough, and staying home to prevent the spread if you become sick. I realize as a parent, viral illnesses are frustrating and more severe ones are scary. But it’s important to stay calm and stay informed. So far, there has not been a single death due to this virus this year. Never hesitate to contact your child’s doctor if you have concerns.

Categories
Heath and Wellness

Strep Throat: When Are Antibiotics Needed? ALWAYS!

By Dr. Kelly A. Johnson, MD 

Since we are about to begin another school year, I decided to discuss a topic that never goes out of season: Strep throat.  Despite the fact that it seems to be more common in the winter months, it is with us all year around. I know that makes us all cringe a little bit.  It’s miserable for everyone, spreads easily to family and friends, and usually means at least one day of missed school.

Strep throat is a bacterial infection of the tonsils that is spread from person to person through direct saliva (i.e. , eating, drinking, and kissing).  Surfaces of water fountains can become contaminated and spread the illness over an entire class or school. Everyone knows the classic symptoms of Strep throat, sore throat and fever.  But there are actually five symptoms of Strep and they can all occur together, or in any combination.  It’s not always what you expect. The five signs are sore throat, fever, rash, stomach pain, and headache.  The stomach pain is sometimes accompanied by nausea and vomiting. The rash usually starts on the face or chest and is fine and sandpaper- like in feel.  It can be easily missed.  If your child develops any of these symptoms (alone or together) for more than two to three days, they need to have a Strep test. If they have been exposed to Strep, then don’t wait. Children without tonsils can still get Strep throat as well.

For children under 21, untreated Strep infections can cause long-term heart, kidney, and brain disorders that are unfortunately untreatable. Adults who have young children at home should also be vigilant about being treated for their children’s safety.

To help prevent the spread, children should not eat or drink after one another.  They should never share toothbrushes.  A new toothbrush is always needed after about two to three days of antibiotic treatment for an active infection so they do not re-infect themselves.

If your child has a tendency to contract Strep throat more than two or three times a year, you may want to discourage them from using water fountains and have them bring their own water bottle to school and sporting activities.

If your child does get Strep throat, it is mandatory that they stay home for 24 hours once treatment is started.  Not following this rule is the main reason Strep throat is almost epidemic during the school year.

If you have further questions, need an appointment or want to read previous newsletters, go to my website at www.pedihousecalls.com.

 

 

Categories
Back-to-School Technology

Touching The Future

By Kaye Hauschild
Middle School Coordinator, Lakehill Preparatory School

I went back to school this summer. In the way of current times, I never actually went anywhere.  I sat at the computer in my house and spent hours trying to become a modern student.  From webinars (easy!) to participating in assigned group activities with students in different time zones (complicated!), I did my student thing.

And, while this was far from my more traditional classroom, I had an advantage over many of those in the course.  I have benefited from Lakehill’s consistent giving of encouragement to our faculty to attend technology-based training showcasing the best technology for use in education. And, with the efforts of Mr. Cummings, Mr. Dent, and our parents, we have amazing, level-appropriate software and updated hardware.  We also have a new iPad program that allows entire classrooms to literally put hands on and make use of applications intended to inspire and encourage our students to be seekers of knowledge and authors of independent thought.

As I learned this summer, these new tools offer new experiences that entice the student to reach further.  It also reinforced that I am lucky to get to teach in a traditional school with an eye to the future. Or maybe it is just a touch!

Categories
Upper School Traditions

A Growing Community

By Bob Yttredahl
Upper School Coordinator, Lakehill Preparatory School

The 2013-14 school year is one of tremendous growth and prosperity in Lakehill’s Upper School. We began the new year with a 30% increase in enrollment over the previous year. We have many new international students, representing countries around the world, who have chosen Lakehill for their high school education. Not surprisingly, this tremendous growth and increased diversity brought with it some unique challenges. However, with a proactive approach, we were able to address those challenges before the school year even started.

One change in our programming was to move beyond our traditional two-hour New Student Orientation and hold a day-long event. We had close to 40 new students involved in the orientation and an additional 15 returning students who helped with the event. By the end of the day, the new students were able to meet all of their teachers, take a tour of the building, meet some returning students, and have an in-depth conversation regarding the policies and procedures. The event helped ease some of the first-day anxieties and made for a smoother transition.

At our Opening Assembly on the first day of school, I shared with the entire Upper School what took place during the orientation. We discussed what we know to be the foundation of our Lakehill experience: “Community.” We agreed that this year offers all of us in our community the opportunity to grow and learn from these real-world experiences. We have created an environment where each member must respect each other and work side-by-side with people from all over the country and the world. In doing so, our community is not only growing, but growing stronger, with students who will develop the skills to succeed in college and beyond.

Categories
Back-to-School

Reflections on a “Big Chief Tablet”

By Ray Dent
Director of Development and Alumni Relations, Lakehill Preparatory School

To me, as a kid, there was just something about the first, clean, new page on the tablet or in the notebook whenever a new school year started. It was special, pristine, like your front yard after a fresh snowfall before it had tracks and footprints across it. Along with the new sharp pointed pencils, fresh never-used markers and a brand-new freshly opened box of Crayola’s, that first page was the signpost marking my entry into a new grade about which I had been both anxious and anxiously waiting.

I always sensed that if I could manipulate those new writing instruments with skill in order to use that first new page wisely, it would somehow set the right tone, or magic, to make the upcoming year fantastic.

As I stood on the north door steps on Monday and received all the happy first-day-of-school handshakes, smiles and high fives from our Lakehill students, parents and faculty, I realized that we were all at that clean, first new-page signpost. This year does not yet have a track, footprint, mark or squiggle across it.

To the adult me, as an administrator, I’ve seen our faculty in meetings and training sessions preparing themselves and their classes. I’ve watched the Parent Faculty Club organize and work to get ready for the upcoming year. (The efficient class registrations and an awesome Back to School Picnic were just the pregame warm-ups for what the PFC will do this year.) I’ve spoken with parents and grandparents proud of supporting Lakehill in efforts like the iPad Initiative last year, who are anxious to do even more this year.

I believe in my heart that we have… “somehow set the right tone, or magic, to make the upcoming year fantastic.”

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