Lakota Middle School

I didn't care for this school, and was quite happy to leave it. I refused to go to Decatur or Federal Way High School partially because Lakota feeds into those two schools, and I was suspicious. Many of the teachers were unfriendly and didn't care about the students, although a few were fantastic. I didn't think much of the cambridge program. It wasn't challenging at all and I honestly felt it was a complete waste of time. The teachers and staff were more focused on general academics instead of the individual student's needs. I don't know why people praise the cambridge program so much, it truly isn't worth it.

I have had children at Lakota for the last 5 years and have 1 more year to go. I am impressed with the quality of the administration and staff, and my kids have received a great education. With the involved PTA, Watch DOGS program, and parent involvement it truly is a school where "Together We Win".
--Submitted by a parent

My children have been at Lakota Middle School for 3 years now. I have seen them grow as individuals and students to heights beyond what preconcieved notions we had about middle school. All staff and administration care deeply about the success of each student. Thier motto is "Together We Win" and it couldn't be more true. Parent involvement at Lakota surpasses expectations, no longer are the days of parents only being highly involved in elementary school. Lakota is also the only middle school in Federal Way to have a WATCH D.O.G.S. (Dads of great students)program and it's in its 3rd year!! A very dedicated PTA and dedicated volunteers. It is a win, win, win for all.
--Submitted by a parent

Professional academic teaching and support staff is complemented by attentive and instructive athletics. Beautiful new construction is definately a positive. Security officer is adaquate, but could use better discipline and consequences for misbehaving and inappropriate language..
--Submitted by a parent

I have just completed my third year at Lakota and I had a blast! The staff is wonderful (Ok, a few rotten eggs, but nothing substantial) There is a great classroom environment and I really have enjoyed my time there. There are some gang problems, but as long as you don't get involved, they don't affect you. I was in the Cambridge program, so maybe the genral population sees it differently, but I know that I had a great time and I'm sad to leave. Especially since we just got a new building! I took a tour and it was SO cool!

We have the best staff. We are professional and all work together to benefit our students and community. Our students are super. And our PTA is the BEST! We have lots of community involvement.
--Submitted by a teacher

Through my 3 years attending this school, its has not been an expeirence i plan to look back to any time soon. First of all, there is a huge gang problem. Not only does this make learning harder by frequent disturbances but it also makes it scary to go to. Second, the teachers at the school are not very good. Dont get me wrong, i have had some great teachers at this school such as, ms. kiraly, mr. beals, and mr. howard. Anopther reason is the drug and fight problem. the very last reason is the conditrion of the school.
--Submitted by a student

My children started going to this school last year, as 6th and 7th graders... They have found it very different from thier last school in Snohomish county. The school is far more watchful of the students time, as has so far been a positive experience for my girls. They have found the teachers, and staff to be very kind and friendly, and made friends quickly. They have wanted to move back to our old home town, but contimplate only because they like this school. I mostly like that parents have the availability and access to reach all teachers, and to be able to find out about any homework at any time. It really helps you keep in touch with what your kids are doing and learning, and making sure they are up to date with homework. I would recomend this school is someone asked.
--Submitted by a parent