Rockford, MI – Lakes Elementary School has taken its tiered support system a step further by creating six student “dens” that mix children from every grade level. Each den is identified by a unique color and chant, and meets twice a month for activities designed to build community, accountability and integrity.
Program structure and goals
Principal Matt Zokoe launched the den program three years ago with a clear purpose: to strengthen character and behavior across the entire school. “I want our fifth graders to be role models for those third graders, and I want those fourth graders to be role models for those second graders,” Zokoe explained. “Along the way, we can build a strong school community where we all care about one another and each other’s behavior.”
The dens compete for points, encouraging friendly rivalry while reinforcing positive conduct. During November, the focus shifts to accountability and integrity, reinforcing the school’s core values.
Student experiences
Third‑grader Nick Kading described the den experience as “really fun” and a chance to make new friends outside his usual circle. Fellow third‑grader Everett Parniske added, “It’s a really good idea. It’s not just your friends your age; you can be friends with anybody.”
Fifth‑grader Lexi Nash highlighted the mentorship aspect, noting that younger students benefit from learning directly from older peers. “I think it helps the younger kids because they get an opportunity to learn from the fifth graders, which I think is a really nice opportunity,” she said.
Fifth‑grader Hannah Nash echoed this sentiment, saying the program has helped her mature: “It helped me a lot because now I know how to be more mature and stuff.”
Why cross‑grade interaction matters
Zokoe emphasized that interaction among students of different ages is a key component of the program’s success. “It builds connection, and not only that connection, but community,” he said. By allowing older students to model positive behavior, the school cultivates a culture of respect and responsibility that ripples through every grade.
Community impact
Parents and teachers have praised the dens for fostering a sense of belonging and reducing behavioral issues. The program aligns with Lakes Elementary’s broader mission to nurture not only academic achievement but also the moral and social development of each child.
As the dens continue to meet and compete, the school looks forward to expanding the model to other schools in the district, hoping to spread the benefits of cross‑grade mentorship and community building throughout Rockford.
Original reporting: FOX 17 WXMI Grand Rapids (local) — read the source article.
