Lakota Waldorf School Awarded Grant to Strengthen Campus Security

The Lakota Waldorf School (LWS) has been awarded a $14,412 grant from South Dakota Community Foundation (SDCF) to support new campus safety improvements. LWS is a tuition-free independent K–8 school serving children on the Pine Ridge Reservation. 

The funding will help install 11 high-definition security cameras throughout the school’s main building, along with a remote-controlled entrance lock and intercom system. These upgrades will allow staff to monitor activity on campus, verify visitors before entry, and provide recorded footage to authorities if needed.

“This grant allows us to create a safer learning environment for our students, families and teachers,” said Isabel Stadnick, Lakota Waldorf School Administrator. “We are deeply grateful to South Dakota Community Foundation for investing in the wellbeing of our children and supporting the future of our community.” 

Founded in 1993 by Oglala Lakota parents and elders, Lakota Waldorf School was created to provide an education that combines strong academics with Lakota language, values and cultural teachings. The school began as a one-room kindergarten serving 18 students and has grown into a K–8 program that can now serve up to 80 students.

“All of South Dakota benefits when the children in our communities thrive,” said Ginger Niemann, SDCF Senior Program Officer. “That’s why education is one of the primary focus areas of the South Dakota Fund and why we are pleased to be supporting this project.” 

In 2025, SDCF awarded 55 South Dakota Fund grants, totaling over $1 million, to nonprofit and charitable organizations across the state. 

To learn more about the Lakota Waldorf School, visit https://lakotawaldorfschool.org.