The Morning Journal (Lorain, OH)
Larkmoor students’ achievement celebrated
More than 400 pieces of cake were passed out to grinning youngsters at Larkmoor Elementary School in Lorain to celebrate the highest score ranked in the district for Gap Closing.
Larkmoor Elementary, 1201 Nebraska Ave., received an “A” grade rating by the Ohio Department of Education in the “Gap Closing” category for the 2017-18 School Report Cards.
Gap Closing is defined as a component that shows how well schools are meeting the performance expectations for the most vulnerable, or diverse, students in English, language arts, math, graduation and English language proficiency, according to the Ohio Department of Education.
The report card indicated Larkmoor, which has 420 students, received an overall grade of a ‘C.”
Karla Tomlin, PTO president, said students, staff and parents at the school worked hard for their achievements and deserve to be rewarded.
“We appreciate the kids and their hard work,” Tomlin said. “Giving them this cake is going to recognize them for their hard work.
“You always want recognition for what you do. I think it teaches them that if you work hard enough, you can get a reward in return.”
The PTO funded the dessert filled celebration, including other celebrations and fundraisers, throughout the year.
Principle Chantelle Lewis said Larkmoor increased to an “A” this year from a “B” in 2016-17.
Lewis said Larkmoor couldn’t have achieved its goal without the entire school community’s support and contribution.
The Gap Closing category is calculated by state testing from grades 3-5, she said.
Lewis said Larkmoor uses a true multi-tier system to approach students needs in the pre-K through fifthgrade by learning through different staff members, departments, community partnerships and programs.
Most importantly, the youngsters have put in a great deal of effort because
“We appreciate the kids and their hard work... You always want recognition for what you do. I think it teaches them that if you work hard enough, you can get a reward in return.”
— Karla Tomlin, PTO president
of their relationships formed as a community.
Larkmoor uses a holistic approach where staff know, understand and work with student’s learning abilities as well as know them on a personal level, Lewis said.
“You go into the classrooms and the teachers are teaching according to a level the kid is at,” said Celina Bigio, dean of scholar and family engagement for Lorain City Schools. “The teacher meets them and it’s amazing how the students follow through. These kids are constantly working.”
Principal at Larkmoor since 2013, Lewis said she helped to form close teacher-to-student relationships and has watched the bonds grow.
“We didn’t always start here, but it’s great to see where we are today,” she said.
Lewis joked that with everyone’s help, Larkmoor went from gold to platinum.