Lake Forest Elementary School: Taking Pride in Learning
At Lake Forest Elementary, we are committed to helping all students develop the world-class skills and life and career characteristics outlined in the Profile of the South Carolina Graduate. We do this by providing a safe, caring, and academically challenging learning environment.
Our school motto, “Taking Pride in Learning,” reflects our vision to equip every student with the skills they need to reach their full potential, become lifelong learners, and grow into responsible citizens. We stay true to this vision by ensuring our professional development is grounded in evidence-based practices that drive high-quality academic instruction across all grade levels.
Academic and Social-Emotional Excellence
Academic achievement and social-emotional learning are our top priorities. Our faculty collaboratively designs and implements classroom strategies that foster strong academic outcomes and student engagement. Instructional resources include:
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DreamBox Learning, IXL, and Lexia, which support individualized instruction in math and language arts
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Reading Horizons for foundational literacy in grades K–2
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Project Read, a structured, multisensory language arts curriculum supporting comprehension, written expression, and phonics
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LETRS training for K–3 teachers, equipping them with science-based literacy instruction practices
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District-provided science kits and targeted field trips aligned to academic standards
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Small-group guided reading based on ongoing data to support differentiated instruction
We also provide multilingual learners with consistent, supplemental language support across all grades.
To support our students' emotional well-being, we dedicate time each day to WIN Time (What I Need), where students build self-awareness, self-regulation, and relationship skills. We integrate Conscious Discipline practices schoolwide—an evidence-based, trauma-informed framework that transforms classroom management into opportunities for growth and connection.
In addition, we partner with Mosaic, a local community organization, to provide tutoring and after-school care to many of our multilingual students—extending learning beyond the classroom.
Developing the Whole Child
We believe every child should have opportunities to lead, collaborate, and grow beyond academics. All students participate in monthly interest-based clubs, and we offer a range of enrichment opportunities that promote leadership and engagement:
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Student helper roles (office, media, guidance, school store)
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Safety Patrol and The Clean Team
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Student Council and Junior Beta Club
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A live daily morning news show, planned and hosted by students
Our school counselors lead a comprehensive character education program based on input from students, staff, and families, focused on building essential soft skills and positive character traits.
A Strong School-Community Partnership
Lake Forest is proud to be a true community school. We welcome and encourage parent and community involvement in every aspect of school life. Our local churches and business partners are instrumental in supporting our mission, further emphasizing that educating children is a shared responsibility.
We are proud of the culture and achievements we've built together and remain committed to developing confident, capable, and compassionate future leaders.
Sheyla Norton, SIC Chairperson
Julie Cooke, Principal
