Each day we teach our students the importance of civic education. The general election is November 3. Make sure to check your registration status, register to vote, or update your information by visiting www.IndianaVoters.com by the October 5 deadline. Register To Vote

Watch this video to meet Mr. Tyler Thiems, Assistant Principal at Willow Lake. Mr. Thiems attended Washington Township Schools, graduated from North Central High School, and his own children are growing Panthers in the District. Find out why Mr. Thiems is a Panther through and through. #WeGrowPanthers

ILEARN data is in, and we are celebrating the hard work of our students and staff! With notable growth in English Language Arts and Math, and proficiency rates well above the Marion County average, we’re proud of the progress our Panthers are making.

As we build on this momentum, we look forward to seeing how this year’s focused efforts continue to move student learning and achievement forward.

This year, Willow Lake Elementary is fortunate to partner with North Central High School’s Hispanic Honor Society to bring a variety of experiences to our students in celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month. 

 

This partnership has included an El Grito presentation, where NC students shared the history and significance of Mexico’s traditional call for independence and led our students in experiencing this spirited tradition; El Día de las Flores Amarillas, where students learned about the popular tradition of giving yellow flowers and created their own; a Bachata dance lesson, introducing students to the music and movements of this dance with roots in the Dominican Republic; and a Quinceañera presentation, which helped students learn about the traditions and significance surrounding this important coming-of-age celebration in many Latino communities. We are also excited to welcome Ballet Folklórico performers, who will share traditional Mexican folk dances that showcase the colorful clothing, music, and regional traditions represented through this art form.

 

One of the things that has made these experiences especially meaningful is the opportunity for our elementary students to learn directly from North Central students. Not only are they learning about and celebrating Hispanic and Latino cultures, but they are also seeing the opportunities that await them as future Panthers and connecting with older students who can serve as role models. With our Dual Language Immersion program serving many Hispanic and Latino students and families, Hispanic Heritage Month is an especially important opportunity for us to ensure students see their cultures represented, celebrated, and valued throughout our school community. We are so grateful to North Central’s Hispanic Honor Society for helping Willow Lake make these celebrations engaging and meaningful for our students!