Lakes International Language Academy

We are a public elementary school that strongly emphasizes Spanish and Chinese language immersion of kindergarten through grade six.

A TUITION-FREE CHOICE

Lakes International Language Academy, a public language immersion elementary school serving grades K through 6, offers its students and parents an exciting academic approach unique in Minnesota. Lakes International, an IB World School, uses the highly respected International Baccalaureate Primary Years Programme as its curriculum model.  The school  provides  a choice of instruction in either a Spanish immersion or Mandarin Chinese environment. All this, yet as a public school, Lakes International charges no tuition to Minnesota students.

LANGUAGE IMMERSION

Teachers develop and teach nearly all daily lessons in the immersion language, including social studies, mathematics, science and technology, arts, and personal, social and physical education. Students accept learning in their second language as the norm. Teachers introduce English as a formal subject in second grade. Our program is specifically designed for children of families who do not speak Spanish or Mandarin Chinese at home. More than 400 U.S. schools offer immersion programs. In Minnesota alone, over 10,000 students attend immersion programs.

AN IB WORLD SCHOOL

Education at Lakes International focuses on the whole child and centers around a set of 10 attributes that encourage children to grow into inquiring, knowledgeable and caring young people who help to create a better and more peaceful world through intercultural understanding and respect. Our curriculum encourages students to become active and compassionate lifelong learners. The Primary Years Programme draws on proven research and best practices from around the world. The International Baccalaureate Organization recognized Lakes International as an IB World School in February 2009 after a rigorous five-year authorization process.

A CARING COMMUNITY

Students and parents partner with highly qualified teachers and staff to create a school climate that inspires achievement and fosters understanding and respect for others. Strong parent and staff involvement at all levels supports and drives the mission of the school. Lakes International, founded by parents, continues to strive for excellence while maintaining a small school atmosphere amidst growing demand for dynamic, innovative learning.