About Us

LEARNING BEYOND THE CLASSROOM WALLS

Our Vision & Our Identity

Our Identity:

We are the only tuition-free school in the EUP that combines hands-on learning and environmental education consistently throughout the curriculum. We strive to be a destination, PK-5th grade outdoor Montessori academy.

From planting seeds in the garden to exploring the forests our students learn by doing—connecting classroom concepts to the real world around them. LSA is where curiosity thrives, independence grows, and students develop a deep respect for the environment and community they call home. Here, the world is our classroom—and every day is an adventure! 🌎✨

Download the LSA mission statement →

History Of Lake Superior Academy

Lake Superior Academy opened its doors in September 2016, but the development of the idea for the school started many years ago.

In 2004, Roger and Susie Schlehuber founded a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization to provide after-school academic support to students in the Eastern Upper Peninsula. The EUP Learning Center started with one small classroom serving five students per week and grew to have three campuses serving more than 90 students per week.

From 2004 to 2015, the EUP Learning Center offered after-school support for students who struggled to meet the academic requirements of their schools. During those eleven years, it was demonstrated and well-documented that more than 80 percent of students who needed the extra support flourished when the instructor used a hands-on, movement-based approach to presenting the material. Students who initially came in the door saying they felt "stupid" because they just couldn't get it, left with confidence in themselves and the ability to understand and retain new concepts.

Parents repeatedly asked, "Why can't this type of teaching be used in the regular classroom?" Roger and Susie knew that Montessori schools do just that – teach the same academic concepts using a completely hands-on, concrete approach to instruction. Students with any learning style can flourish in this environment, and this style of instruction allows students who cannot learn and retain without movement the opportunity to keep up and maintain academic progress with traditional learners.

Montessori schools are traditionally offered in the tuition-based, private sector of education. Roger and Susie wanted to offer Montessori education as a tuition-free alternative for all families in the EUP. These convictions and events led them to pursue a charter school option and to open Lake Superior Academy.

Lake Superior Academy Is A Tuition-Free Public School Serving Children In Grades Kindergarten Through Fifth Grade.

WE ARE COMMITTED TO THE MONTESSORI EDUCATIONAL PHILOSOPHY.

The Montessori curriculum itself is a proven method of instruction designed for all types of learners, and has been an established model of education for over 100 years. Many parents around the world seek out Montessori education for their children because of its ability to create life-long learners who are confident, self-directed and well-respected. Lake Superior Academy brings together a true community of learners which embraces Maria Montessori's teachings and her ideals of diversity, peace education and individualized learning. At Lake Superior Academy, we serve the Chippewa County community.

Educational Service Provider

Since 2004, CS Partners has worked with Michigan charter schools to manage all areas of operation.

Our foundation is built on partnerships that deliver the solutions you need so you can support your teachers as they focus on educating their students.

We are proud to assist school leaders in every aspect of school operations, from HR, budget and accounting, curriculum, instruction, assessment, special education, leadership development, compliance, and facilities management.

CS believes the Montessori education is one of the greatest gifts children can receive. Our teachers combine both Montessori and Michigan Department of Education school standards. These dual responsibilities help ensure that your child is receiving the best education they possibly can. The mixed-age classes enable students to learn and develop at their own pace and develop their role among peers. Please explore for yourself why Montessori works!

Learn more about CS Partners →

A Message from the School Leader

A Note From Ms. Susie
Looking Ahead to 2025–2026

Dear LSA Families,

As each school year comes to a close, it gives us a special opportunity to reflect—on what worked well, what could be improved, and how we can continue to grow as a school community. At Lake Superior Academy, we’re always asking:

● How can we help our students learn more deeply and joyfully?
● How can we support our teachers in doing the meaningful work they love?
● How can we invite parents to be active and informed partners in their child’s education?

With these questions guiding us, we’re already planning exciting updates for the 2025–2026 school year, which begins on Tuesday, September 2, 2025. Here’s a look at what’s ahead:

🌿 Expanded Outdoor Learning Leadership +

Amy Brzuchalski will step into a new administrative/teaching role, serving as our part-time Outdoor Director. She’ll lead enhancements to our outdoor classroom program, bringing even more purpose and structure to students’ time outside. In addition, Amy will support teachers and staff in implementing the LSA curriculum with energy, creativity, and effectiveness.

🌿 Focused Student Support +

Keri Landry will move into a full-time Intervention/Special Education role. Keri has a remarkable ability to identify what’s getting in the way of student success and provide just the right support. This year, she’ll dedicate her time to working directly with students who need that extra boost, ensuring all learners can thrive.

🌿 Welcoming a New K/1 Teacher +

We’re thrilled to welcome Jocelyn McKee to the LSA team as our new Kindergarten/1st Grade teacher! Jocelyn recently earned her degree in Early Childhood Education from Central Michigan University. Her kind and nurturing approach to teaching is a perfect fit for LSA’s commitment to individual student growth.

🌿 A Familiar Face in a New Role +

Amy Hoolsema, who has been a paraprofessional in the 4th/5th grade classroom for the past three years, will step into the lead teaching position in that classroom. Amy is currently enrolled in a Michigan Department of Education-approved certification program that allows her to teach while completing her certification. Her deep understanding of the LSA model and strong relationships with students make her an ideal choice to continue the amazing work happening in our upper elementary program.

🌿 Strengthening Family Involvement +

We heard you! Feedback from our Parent and Student Survey in May 2025 highlighted a strong desire for more parent involvement. We’re working on a new program to make it easier and more meaningful for families to get involved. More information will be shared at the start of the new school year—stay tuned!

Thank You

To our current families: Thank you for your trust, your support, and your dedication to making Lake Superior Academy a place where students feel seen, valued, and inspired to learn.

To families considering LSA: We invite you to explore our website, learn about our curriculum, and schedule a visit. We'd love to show you what makes LSA such a special place for learning.

Here's to a joyful summer and an exciting year ahead. We can't wait to see you in September!

Warmly,
Susie Schlehuber
Head of School
Lake Superior Academy