Lakeland Elementary School

Lakeland Elementary School in Coldwater, MI, serves 375 students in grades 4-5 as part of the Coldwater Community Schools district, where roughly 69% of students qualify for free or reduced lunch.

One of Lakeland's standout strengths is its approach to attendance. The school's chronic absenteeism rate sits at just 10.9%—about half the district rate (20.9%) and less than half the state average (27.9%). This is especially impressive when compared to Larsen Elementary, the district's PK-1 building, which has a chronic absenteeism rate of 23.3%. Lakeland has steadily improved this metric from 19.8% three years ago, suggesting effective strategies that keep kids in class. In the classroom, 5th-grade math proficiency reached 37.5%—exceeding the state average of 32.2%—a notable jump from 26% the prior year. This math strength appears to build on foundations laid at Jefferson Elementary (grades 2-3), where 3rd-grade math proficiency (44%) also tops the state average. Students seem to make meaningful academic gains during their two years at Lakeland, particularly in math.

While Lakeland trails state averages in science (34.5% vs. 40%) and social studies (19.6% vs. 27.5%), the school's overall trajectory is positive. Its statewide ranking improved to the 43rd percentile this year, rebounding from a two-year dip. The school also spends efficiently—about $12,828 per student, less than nearby Anderson Elementary ($17,256) yet achieving comparable outcomes. Hispanic students earned a 3-star rating (55th percentile) after a challenging prior year, showing meaningful progress. However, the White student subgroup received a 1-star rating, and English Language Learner proficiency remains an area needing attention. For parents, Lakeland offers a stable, improving environment where attendance is a clear priority and 5th-grade math stands out as a genuine bright spot.