Indianapolis, Indiana – Lakeview Elementary School has officially joined an elite group of schools in Indiana by earning statewide STEM Certification for the 2025–2030 term. The Monroe County Community School Corporation (MCCSC) announced that Lakeview is one of only 16 schools statewide to receive the prestigious designation from the Indiana Department of Education (IDOE) for the 2024–25 academic year.
The STEM Certification program, established in 2015 by the IDOE, recognizes schools that demonstrate a strong commitment to integrating science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) learning across disciplines and outside the traditional classroom environment. The certification process is rigorous and includes an in-depth application, on-site visits, interviews with educators and students, and the development of a comprehensive portfolio.
“This certification reflects our commitment to hands-on STEM opportunities that inspire students to see themselves as future innovators and problem-solvers,” said MCCSC Superintendent Dr. Markay Winston. “While STEM is incorporated into elementary and secondary curricula at all MCCSC schools, we are exceptionally proud of our schools that have undertaken this rigorous statewide certification process.”
Lakeview now joins four other MCCSC schools that have also achieved STEM Certification: Grandview Elementary (2021–2026), Unionville Elementary (2024–2029), Batchelor Middle School (2022–2027), and The Academy of Science and Entrepreneurship (2023–2028).
At Lakeview, STEM learning starts early and continues through every grade level. The school’s K–6 students regularly engage in hands-on projects that emphasize creative problem-solving, inquiry, and teamwork. A standout feature of Lakeview’s STEM approach is its computer science program. From a young age, students are introduced to block coding and computational thinking, using robotics and other tools to bring technology to life in the classroom.
One of the more notable achievements from Lakeview’s STEM efforts came in 2023 when a group of fifth-grade students won first place in the Nextech CSforGood computer science competition. Their project, an app called “Friendship Finder,” was designed to help new students build connections and make friends—demonstrating not just technical skill, but compassion and innovation.
Since 2015, Lakeview has also hosted annual STEM Nights, giving students and families an opportunity to showcase the creative coding, robotics, and science projects that take place throughout the year. These events highlight the real-world applications of STEM education and foster a strong sense of community engagement.
Lakeview’s successful pursuit of certification is a testament to the hard work of its teachers, staff, and students. Preparing for the designation required months of work to assemble materials and evidence, as well as coordination with IDOE representatives for site evaluations.
The certification affirms that Lakeview is not only meeting academic standards in STEM, but exceeding them through creativity, inclusivity, and a future-focused approach. By embracing both technology and humanity—such as blending coding skills with social problem-solving—Lakeview is helping shape the next generation of innovators.
Families and community members interested in learning more about Lakeview’s STEM curriculum and certification journey can visit the school’s official STEM certification website for additional details.
As MCCSC continues to expand and support STEM education across its district, Lakeview’s recognition serves as a shining example of what happens when dedication, vision, and innovation come together in the classroom.
