The monthly, 3- to 5-minute “Look Around Lakota” videos are the latest example of the district’s use of non-conventional methods to expand its presence in the digital and social media world to increase public understanding and support for the schools.
“We want to share our message with our stakeholders in ways that fit into their lives. Our Look Around Lakota videos can give an overview of what’s happening in the district every month in 3-5 minutes,” said Lakota Spokeswoman Betsy Fuller.
Since taking over the leadership of Lakota Schools in 2017, Miller has made expanding Lakota’s digital footprint a top priority. The district, which has 22 schools and is Ohio’s 8th most populous, has started its first Twitter account, expanded use of its Facebook page and employed many other digital strategies never used before by Lakota leadership.
Moreover, this fall the district became one of the first in the region to distribute Chrome laptop computers — specifically designed for student learning — to all its middle school students. The district plans to do the same for its high school students in January.
Miller and Fuller worked together in Mentor Schools in northern Ohio before coming to Lakota in 2017 and they used the YouTube videos successfully there, said Fuller.
“The videos provide a different format in which to reach our parents, staff and community members to share important information and all of the great things that are happening at Lakota. Videos are a way for our community to hear directly from students and staff while giving them a glimpse into our classrooms, schools and events,” she said.
The videos are available on YouTube by searching “Lakota Local Schools.”
School parents said they appreciate the new way of conveying what’s going on in their children’s schools.
“My initial reaction that is typical of Lakota these days in that they are right on the cutting edge of keeping us tied to what’s going on,” said Lakota school parent Amy Rupp.
“It’s awesome and the time-length is perfect. Me and my husband both enjoy watching them,” said Rupp.
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