Lakehill Preparatory School's Lower School teachers are well known for their creative projects and programs that bring learning to life for their students. 

Lakehill's youngest students are preparing to celebrate their 100th day of school in February by collecting 100 toys for children at Scottish Rite Hospital. They have collected all 100 toys and are now planning their visit to Scottish Rite to deliver the toys to the children. The students will also take a tour of the facilities and learn about the history and good works of the organization. This is the sixth year that Lakehill kindergarten students have collected toys for Scottish Rite. 

The cause is near to the heart of Lakehill Kindergarten teacher Mylana Burt, whose eldest son was a patient at Scottish Rite when he was in second grade. "I remember the toys that they gave us at the hospital and the powerful impact it had on us. When I looked for a way to extend the reach into the community, I knew where our Kindergarten students could really make a difference." Since that time, Lakehill's kindergarten students have been celebrating their 100-day milestone by bringing cheer to their peers at a time they need it most.

While service is not mandatory, all Lakehill students recognize the importance of involvement in their school and in the community and are eager to help with class projects and school-wide initiatives. Others find time to participate in even more service opportunities. This year's Lower School Community Connections Club, an after-school club for students in kindergarten through grade four, is the largest club in the Lower School, with more than 60% of all Lower School students participating in voluntary after-school and weekend service projects. So far this year, students have worked on a variety of projects, including preparing cookie bags to distribute to the homeless through the Soup Mobile, making Rainbow Soup jars, packing food at White Rock Center of Hope, and picking up litter at Lakehill's adopted shoreline at White Rock Lake. 

"I love the excitement these students feel from helping others," explained Lakehill Headmaster Roger L. Perry. "Serving others is truly are part of the fabric of our school. Our students are encouraged to embrace a spirit of volunteerism that will foster a life-long passion for service."

Established in 1971, Lakehill Preparatory School is an academic community dedicated to the whole student. This means combining a robust, college preparatory curriculum with opportunities for personal growth, individual enrichment, and community engagement. Small class sizes ensure a supportive learning environment and personal attention. From kindergarten through high school, every Lakehill student is encouraged to strive, challenged to succeed, and inspired to excel. 

To find out more and experience the Lakehill Difference, please call 214-826-2931 or visit www.lakehillprep.org. Applications for 2014-15 are due January 17.