Back: Reyna Sanchez; Back Row from left: Lisandra LaDeux, Ahmbaska Roy Camp, Taylyn Reavis, Taylor Twiss, Layla Vocu; Middle Row: Roselynn Tall, Mariah Running Hawk, Kara Red Elk, Mya Eagle Hawk, Norman Hernandez.; Front Row: Catalina White Butterfly, Darion Tall, Rhianna Palmier, Katherine Red Cloud, Miksuya Eagle Hawk MANDERSON -- It is hard measure academic growth unless it is profound. At Wounded Knee Dostrixt School the kindergarten class has proven that with the right commitment and supports from the school this level of academic achievement is possible.

The students in Ms. Heather Yellow Boy’s Kindergarten class just finished its MAP testing and the results show they have made huge gains. Out of 16 students; in reading: 6 students made proficiency, 10 are at instructional level, and 0 are below basic. This is the first time that this grade at WKDS has had all its students reading at these levels.

The school has just implemented new curriculum throughout the school are witnessing similar results across the board according to school officials.

“It was my privilege to teach the Wounded Knee District School Kindergarten class this year. I am so proud of their accomplishments! I owe a lot to the support and encouragement of not only the administration and school board, but to the parents,” said Yellow Boy.

“Educating our children is a community effort,and when everyone works together for the kids, it shows! Much of the success we had was due to the consistency and structure that I provide daily so that the kids always know the routines, and procedures. They know what to do and how things should be done. Every lesson I taught was planned and designed around learning with clear objectives and outcomes and they are now heading into first grade with the foundational skills and strategies they need to be lifelong learners,” she added.

In math, 6 students made proficiency, 6 are at instructional level.”I am so thrilled for them and so proud of how hard they have worked to achieve this year! They are discovering that they are smart and capable, and they can reach their goals no matter how hard the challenge seems,” added Yellow Boy.

The class’s motto this year was, “Mistakes are beautiful opportunities to learn!”

It seems they are taking advantage of every opportunity.

(Contact Brandon Ecoffey at editor@lakotacountrytimes.com)