Our Lady of Lourdes Elementary School

Demographics

Percentage of students*

Why Our Lady of Lourdes Elementary School was nominated

This K-8 school serves students on the Pine Ridge Reservation, scaling practices incubated in a local dual-immersion Lakota microschool. These practices include language education, outdoor hands-on learning, staff co-planning time, and introducing more learner voice and choice. Attendance and engagement rates are increasing based on early surveys of students and families. This is a Catholic, Lakota-led learning environment that centers students' language, culture, and agency.

Student experience design

The student experience at Winyan Wakan Owayawa - Our Lady of Lourdes is intentionally designed to nurture a thriving, community-centered learning environment that prioritizes Lakȟóta values, cultural identity, and holistic development. Our approach ensures that students feel a deep sense of belonging, are academically challenged, and are supported in their personal and spiritual growth. While we are working toward fully embodying this model, we recognize that transformation takes time. We find areas where we can do this work well and hope to eventually expand these principles into all aspects of the school experience. Student Experience at Winyan Wakan Owayawa Rooted in Lakȟóta and Catholic Values – Learning is infused with Lakȟóta and Catholic beliefs, values, and practices that guide students toward a life of love, service, and integrity. Holistic & Child-Centered – We prioritize the whole child, balancing academic, social-emotional, spiritual, and physical well-being through relational and restorative practices. Small, Supportive Community – With smaller class sizes this year, students benefit from more individualized attention, stronger relationships with teachers, and a learning environment that adapts to their needs. Relativeship & Responsibility – Students learn through a lens of community, developing respect for themselves, their peers, and their environment. Our approach fosters accountability and nurtures the understanding that we are all related. Hands-On & Experiential Learning – Learning is active, engaging, and rooted in experience. Students explore concepts through storytelling, land-based education, ceremony, and inquiry-driven projects. Empowering Critical Thinkers – We cultivate students' ability to question, reflect, and analyze the world around them, grounding their knowledge in both historical truths and contemporary realities. Restorative & Inclusive Practices – Our environment centers restorative approaches to discipline, ensuring that students learn from mistakes in a way that strengthens their character and community relationships. Preparation for a Rapidly Changing World – Through rigorous academics, leadership opportunities, and real-world applications, students develop the skills, confidence, and cultural grounding to thrive in an evolving world. As we work toward fully integrating this vision, we acknowledge that it is a journey. We are committed to continually learning, growing, and finding ways to bring these principles into every aspect of our school community, ensuring that every child at Winyan Wakan Owayawa is seen, valued, and supported on their educational journey.

Core Practices

Core Practices	Length of Use
AI For Learning Materials	Less than a year
AI For Teacher Productivity	Less than a year
Culturally Responsive Practices	1-2 years
Dual Language Programming	1-2 years

All Practices

Co-leadership

Flexible Staffing & Alternative Teaching Roles

Multi-age Classrooms

Restorative Practices

SEL Curriculum

Students Develop Projects

key reasons for innovating

Artifacts

MAPS Testing Results: Science: 60% of our students grades 3rd-8th showed growth

55% met projected growth Reading: 65% of our students K-8 showed growth

56% met projected growth ➕ Math: 72% of our students K-8 showed growth

61.5% met projected growth