Students, staff, and Lake Superior Elementary alums stopped by the school during its final days in June. Current and former administrators, along with graduates, had a chance to tour the building one final time and relive some of their most treasured memories.
From 1985 to 2024, Lake Superior Elementary, located just outside of Parkland, educated and prepared countless students for the next level of their academic careers. Through clubs, field trips, school visitors, and lessons in the classroom, students were given the best education possible to set them up for success.
"Lake Superior Elementary is a gem in the district," said Lake Superior Elementary Kindergarten teacher Nicole Domagala. "I'm grateful that I've been a part of all the wonderful experiences over many years. I will truly miss being a family at LSE."
As the 2023-2024 school year started to come to an end, the school district and Lake Superior decided what better way to honor its many years of service than to host a number of events that would bring past and present Eagles together. It all began when, shortly after Memorial Day, on May 29th, the school officially opened its time capsule.
Principal Rick Flaherty (left) begins to open up the time capsule on May 29,2024
During a short assembly, Principal Rick Flaherty opened the capsule in front of the entire school. The box contained books, yearbooks, pictures, and other items from 1985 and the 2015-2016 school year. New paper clippings, drawings, and more lined the capsule with memories from decades long since passed.
The following day, May 30th, LSE held its final Kindergarten Graduation. 18 students dawned their caps and were honored in front of their parents.
Later that evening, the LSE Parent-Teacher Organization held a Community Night, which allowed former faculty and community members to tour the old building. Former Eagles were treated to many of the building’s original artifacts, including the golden ceremonial shovel that helped break ground on the school.
Former students and staff look at old Lake Superior Elementary yearbooks during Community Night
On Saturday, June 1st, a Pancake Breakfast returned as alumni returned to LSE. Stories were shared, friendships renewed, and laughter filled the hallways once more.
“Tucked away at the far edge of Superior has been this little gem of a school,” said Lake Superior Elementary EMLSS teacher Sarah Barnes. “Lake Superior Elementary is a place where generations have come to school. Teachers know every student by name and jump in to care for them whenever they can. This community supports each other in good times and bad, and has come together to support children and families when tragedy has struck. This sweet little school leaves a lasting impression on all who have been a part of its 39 years and will hold a special place in our hearts long after its doors close next week.”
Finally, on June 5th, students and staff said goodbye to LSE on the last day of school. Throughout the day and week, various news outlets stopped by to capture the final memories.
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During that last day, LSE held its final school assembly. Games, tug-o-war, races, and snacks were given to the students. As the students and staff find new homes within our district, the legacy of Lake Superior Elementary will live on. Starting the 2024-2025 school year, Great Lakes Elementary Waves will rebrand to the Great Lakes Elementary Eagles with its mascot Wave.
Thank you to everyone who helped make LSE a special place. Thank you to all the staff who taught our students valuable life lessons.
CLICK HERE FOR THE 2023-2024 SCHOOL YEAR PHOTO GALLERY
