Eastway and Lakewood elementary schools have been named 2024-2025 Capturing Kids’ Hearts National Showcase Schools, a prestigious honor awarded to campuses that demonstrate excellence in building a culture where students feel safe, connected, and engaged.
The schools join Burton Elementary School, which earned the designation for the eighth consecutive year.
The Capturing Kids’ Hearts National Showcase Schools® Award recognizes schools that go above and beyond in creating an environment where students thrive academically and emotionally.
Through the Capturing Kids’ Hearts® Process, educators at Eastway Elementary have been equipped with relationship-building tools and processes that help them foster student success and a positive campus culture.
"This honor reflects the unwavering commitment of our teachers, staff, students, and families to creating a school culture where every child feels seen, valued, and supported. It's a proud moment for our entire school community." said Dr. Jackaline Teel, Principal.
Lakewood Principal Jeri Jackson said, “At Lakewood, we believe that before students can succeed academically, they must first feel emotionally safe and supported. Through our implementation of Capturing Kids’ Hearts strategies—such as greeting students at the door, building social contracts, and fostering meaningful relationships—we have created a school community where trust, respect, and kindness are at the core of everything we do.
Being named a Showcase School validates our belief that strong relationships are the foundation of effective teaching and learning. It also places Lakewood among a select group of schools across the nation that are leading the way in social-emotional learning and student engagement. We are honored by this recognition and remain committed to "capturing kids’ hearts" every day, knowing that when we do, we also capture their minds. Thank you to our entire school community for helping make this achievement possible.”
Each year, Capturing Kids’ Hearts recognizes schools across the country for their commitment to transforming their campus environments through a relational approach to education. Schools that receive this designation have shown measurable progress in student connectedness, academic achievement, and overall school culture.