When you search for Christian or private elementary schools in Clearwater, Florida, you’re not just looking for convenience—you’re looking for a school that offers exceptional academics, nurturing teachers, and a safe, values-driven environment. At Lakeside Christian School in Clearwater, Florida, our kindergarten program does exactly that.
Kindergarten is a pivotal year for your child. It’s a time when foundational skills are built, confidence begins to grow, and curiosity is sparked. At Lakeside, we treat these early years with the care, attention, and excellence they deserve—so your child can thrive from day one.
We know how important personalized attention is at the kindergarten level. That’s why we’re expanding to two K5 classes this year to keep our class sizes small. Fewer students per class means more one-on-one time with teachers, more opportunities to participate, and a stronger sense of classroom community.
At Lakeside, your child won’t get lost in the crowd. Instead, they’ll be known by name, encouraged daily, and supported every step of the way.
Reading is the key to academic success. To give our youngest learners a strong literacy foundation, our K5 students benefit from specialized reading helpers—trained staff and volunteers who work with students individually or in small groups to sharpen early reading skills.
Whether your child is already sounding out words or just starting to recognize letters, our reading helpers provide the support they need to grow in confidence and fluency.
As one of the most respected private elementary schools in Clearwater, Lakeside Christian School integrates faith into every part of the kindergarten experience. Our curriculum is built on biblical principles, and teachers model Christian values in the classroom every day.
From morning devotions to daily Bible lessons, your child will learn what it means to love God, love others, and make wise choices—all in a joyful and age-appropriate way.
Kindergarten at Lakeside is carefully designed to offer both structure and creativity. Our curriculum aligns with state standards and introduces core subjects like:
But learning doesn’t stop at the desk! Through hands-on activities, art, recess, PE, and play-based learning on the playground, our K5 students stay engaged and excited about school.
Our kindergarten teachers are more than educators—they’re encouragers, role models, and partners in your child’s growth. With a heart for young learners and a deep commitment to Christian education, our staff creates a safe, welcoming classroom culture where every child feels seen, valued, and loved.
We often hear from parents that our teachers feel like extended family—and that’s exactly what we aim for at Lakeside.
Kindergarten isn’t just about ABCs and 123s—it’s about building the character and confidence that students carry with them for years to come. At Lakeside, we equip our youngest Lions with essential life skills like:
We believe that when students start with a strong spiritual and academic foundation, they are more likely to flourish in later grades and beyond.
Many parents view kindergarten as just an introduction to “real” school—but research shows that kindergarten is actually one of the most critical years in a child’s academic and emotional development. In this single year, students:
At Lakeside Christian School, we treat this year with the weight it deserves. We don’t believe in simply “getting through” kindergarten—we believe in making it count. Our strong emphasis on early reading support, social-emotional learning, and personalized instruction sets students up not just for 1st grade, but for a lifetime of academic and personal success.
When parents search for private elementary schools, they’re often surprised to find that the most important part of their child’s education could be starting right now in kindergarten.
Choosing Lakeside Christian School for kindergarten isn’t just a decision for one year—it’s an investment in your child’s future through 12th grade. As a private K–12 school, Lakeside offers a seamless educational journey that grows with your student year after year.
When students begin in K5, they benefit from:
There’s peace of mind in knowing your child is rooted in a safe, supportive, and academically excellent environment from their very first day of school through graduation. And you won’t need to jump between schools to find the best private school education—you’ve already found it in Lakeside.
We know that choosing a school is a big decision—and we’re here to help. Our friendly admissions team will walk you through the enrollment process, answer any questions about tuition assistance (including Step Up for Students scholarships), and schedule a personal tour so you can see our classrooms in action.
If you’ve been searching for the best private elementary schools in Clearwater or wondering how to give your child the strongest start in school, Lakeside Christian School is ready to welcome your family. With small class sizes, loving teachers, specialized reading support, and a Christ-centered environment, our kindergarten program is designed with your child’s growth and future in mind.
📞 Contact us today to learn more or schedule a tour. We can’t wait to meet you!
Are you ready to discover why Lakeside Christian School is one of the best private elementary schools in Clearwater FL? Contact us today to learn more about our programs, schedule a campus tour, or discuss enrollment opportunities. We look forward to partnering with your family on this exciting educational journey.
Contact us to schedule a tour or speak with our admissions team. You can reach us at 727-261-0937, email us at office@lakesidechristianschool.org, or fill out our online contact form.
Experience the Lakeside difference—where growth, leadership, and faith come together to prepare students for a bright future.
To schedule a tour of our campus or to learn more about Lakeside Christian School, the best private elementary school in Clearwater, FL, contact us now.
When parents search for the best elementary schools in Clearwater, they often look for strong academics, a nurturing environment, and opportunities for their child to grow outside the classroom. One key factor that sets private schools in Clearwater apart is their focus on character development through athletics. At Lakeside Christian School, our elementary sports program helps students build discipline, teamwork, and confidence while having fun and staying active.
Youth sports teach valuable life lessons that extend far beyond the field. Whether it’s learning how to handle victory and defeat, developing perseverance through practice, or building friendships based on trust and teamwork, elementary athletics play a crucial role in shaping young students into well-rounded individuals.
Sports are about more than just competition—they instill character traits that help students succeed in school and life. Elementary athletics at private schools in Clearwater help children develop key life skills.
Engaging in sports at a young age offers numerous benefits, both on and off the field. Here’s how youth sports help build character:
Team sports require students to work together to achieve a common goal. Through practices and games, children learn how to communicate effectively, support their teammates, and understand the importance of collective effort.
At Lakeside Christian School, students learn that success comes from supporting one another, whether passing the ball in a soccer game or strategizing for the next basketball play. These lessons in teamwork translate into the classroom and beyond.
Athletes must attend practices, follow rules, and develop good habits to succeed. Learning to balance schoolwork with sports responsibilities teaches students time management and accountability.
In sports, as in life, success requires effort. Young athletes learn that improvement comes from consistent practice and determination. Whether refining their dribbling skills in basketball or perfecting their lacrosse throw, Lakeside students develop the discipline needed to overcome challenges.
Winning and losing are both integral parts of sports. Young athletes learn how to handle victories with humility and losses with grace. They develop resilience by overcoming challenges, improving their skills, and working hard despite setbacks.
Good sportsmanship teaches students to respect their coaches, teammates, and opponents. Winning and losing gracefully are essential skills that help children build emotional maturity and integrity. At Lakeside Christian School, students are encouraged to compete with honor and respect, reinforcing positive values that last a lifetime.
Participation in sports nurtures leadership qualities as student athletes must encourage teammates, make strategic decisions, and lead by example.
Many young athletes step into leadership roles naturally. By making decisions during games, motivating teammates, and setting an example with their hard work, they develop confidence and leadership abilities. At Lakeside, older students, including 12th-grade volunteers, help coach and mentor younger athletes, reinforcing these qualities through positive role modeling.
Regular physical activity promotes a healthy lifestyle. Engaging in regular physical activity significantly enhances both physical and mental health, leading to reduced stress levels and improved focus in the classroom.
Students who participate in sports often exhibit increased confidence and higher self-esteem. For more detailed insights into these benefits, you can refer to the National Center for Biotechnology Information’s comprehensive analysis.
Lakeside Christian School believes in the power of sports to shape young minds and bodies. Our elementary athletics program is tailored to provide students in grades K-5 with a structured yet enjoyable environment where they can develop athletic skills, sportsmanship, and character.
For families seeking the best elementary schools with a well-rounded education, Lakeside Christian School offers an excellent elementary athletics program. Our goal is to provide students with a strong foundation in teamwork and physical fitness while making the experience enjoyable and rewarding.
pictured: Lakeside’s 3rd-5th grade flag football team wraps up the season with their dedicated coaches, building teamwork, discipline, and confidence on the field.
Lakeside offers a variety of sports opportunities for elementary students, ensuring they have access to diverse athletic experiences:
These sports help children explore their interests and develop athletic abilities in a supportive and encouraging environment.
Participating in athletics provides numerous benefits beyond character development. Regular physical activity helps students maintain a healthy lifestyle, improving cardiovascular fitness, strength, and coordination. Additionally, research shows that students who engage in sports tend to perform better academically, as exercise enhances concentration, memory, and overall cognitive function.
Playing sports also helps reduce stress and anxiety, giving students a healthy outlet for energy and emotions. By participating in elementary athletics, children learn to balance academics, extracurricular activities, and personal well-being.
Choosing the right school for your child is an important decision, and if you’re looking for private schools in Clearwater that prioritize character development, academics, and extracurricular activities, Lakeside Christian School stands out.
Here’s why parents trust Lakeside’s elementary sports program:
At Lakeside Christian School, we believe that elementary athletics play a vital role in shaping students into confident, disciplined, and well-rounded individuals. If you’re searching for the best elementary schools that offer a strong academic foundation alongside character-building sports programs, we invite you to explore what Lakeside has to offer.
Ready to learn more? Contact us today to discover how our elementary sports program can benefit your child and to explore private school enrollment options for the 2025-2026 school year!
Lakeside Christian School is committed to providing an academically enriching and spiritually nurturing environment for students. Our school uniform policy is just one of the ways we create a structured, safe, and welcoming learning atmosphere.
If you’re looking for a private school in Clearwater, FL, that prioritizes academic excellence, character building athletics, spiritual growth, and a positive school culture, we invite you to schedule a visit to our campus. Contact our admissions team today to learn more about enrollmentl.
Are you ready to discover why Lakeside Christian School is one of the best private schools in Clearwater FL? Contact us today to learn more about our programs, schedule a campus tour, or discuss enrollment opportunities. We look forward to partnering with your family on this exciting educational journey.
Contact us to schedule a tour or speak with our admissions team. You can reach us at 727-261-0937, email us at office@lakesidechristianschool.org, or fill out our online contact form.
Experience the Lakeside difference—where growth, leadership, and faith come together to prepare students for a bright future.
To schedule a tour of our campus or to learn more about Lakeside Christian School, the best elementary school in Clearwater, FL, contact us now.
Choosing the right private elementary school in Clearwater, Fl, for your child is one of the most important decisions you’ll make. The right school provides a strong academic foundation, a nurturing environment, and Christ-centered values that shape your child’s future. But with so many options, how do you determine the best fit?
A strong foundation in early education shapes not only academic success but also character, values, and social development. At Lakeside Christian School, we believe that education is about more than just academics—it’s about nurturing the whole child in a Christ-centered environment.
Our mission is that all students would come to know, love, and honor the Lord Jesus Christ while achieving measurable academic success. We integrate faith into every aspect of learning, helping students develop strong moral character, integrity, and a love for God. This foundation not only enhances their education but also prepares them for a lifetime of faith and purpose.
Here’s a parent-friendly guide to choosing the best private elementary school in Clearwater, FL, along with insights into why Lakeside Christian School stands out.
One of the biggest advantages of private education is smaller class sizes, allowing for more personalized instruction.
Why It Matters:
If academic support and personalized attention are important to you, look for a school that emphasizes small student-to-teacher ratios—like Lakeside. Small class sizes allow for individualized instruction, ensuring that each child receives the attention they need to thrive.
At Lakeside, our dedicated teachers provide personalized learning experiences, catering to various learning styles and paces. In our kindergarten program, we offer small class sizes with extra ELA support to help early readers build a strong foundation. Our fourth graders are also able access their daily lessons and notes on their google classroom to aid in easy review at home.
Public schools in Florida require students to take the FAST test, a high-stakes standardized assessment. However, at Lakeside Christian School, we do not require FAST testing.
Benefits of a Private School Without FAST Testing:
Unlike public schools, Lakeside Christian School does not participate in Florida’s FAST standardized testing. Instead, we utilize MAP Growth testing, conducted quarterly, to track student progress throughout the year. MAP testing provides valuable insights into each child’s academic development, allowing teachers to tailor instruction based on individual needs. This approach ensures a well-rounded education without the stress of high-stakes standardized testing.
For many families, choosing a Christian private school means giving their child an education that reinforces biblical values and character development.
Why a Christ-Centered Education Matters:
A school that aligns with your family’s faith and values is essential. At Lakeside Christian School, faith is integrated into every aspect of learning. Students engage in daily Bible lessons, prayer, and a curriculum designed to develop a biblical worldview. A Christ-centered education not only strengthens a child’s academic growth but also fosters spiritual development, ensuring they grow in wisdom and faith.
At Lakeside, our Christ-centered curriculum ensures that students not only excel academically but also grow in faith, wisdom, and compassion.
A great elementary education goes beyond academics! The best private schools offer opportunities for extracurricular growth.
Lakeside’s Elementary Programs Include:
Athletics: Soccer, basketball, volleyball & more. Each quarter Kindergarten through fifth grade students have new sports to choose from and participate in. Students get to play against other private elementary schools in the area on Saturday mornings.
Bible: Students have daily Bible class, curriculum with a Biblical worldview, caring Christian teachers, weekly chapel services, and opportunities for special Bible studies. Our third grade girls are currently completing a study on navigating friendships in a godly way.
Fine Arts: daily fine arts classes and opportunities to showcase their work in our school and in the larger Tampa Bay community at the Florida State Fair
Recess and PE: Students have recess and PE classes scheduled into their day. Last year, funds were raised for brand new playground equipment and the school gym was recently refurbished with new flooring.
By choosing a school with a balanced mix of academics, faith, and extracurriculars, you help your child grow into a confident, well-rounded individual.
Many families assume private school is out of reach, but programs like Step Up for Students provide financial assistance for qualifying families.
What is Step Up for Students?
Step Up for Students is a state-funded scholarship program that helps families afford tuition at private schools, including Lakeside Christian School. Available scholarships include:
Next Step: Learn more about tuition assistance and see if your family qualifies. Re-Enrollment and new applications for the 2025-26 school year are now being accepted by Step Up. Visit the Step Up for Students website for details.
The best way to determine if a school is the right fit is by visiting in person. Schedule a campus tour at Lakeside Christian School to experience our Christ-centered education firsthand. Meet our teachers, explore our facilities, and see how our approach to faith and learning can benefit your child. Learn more about our Admissions process here.
Choosing a private elementary school is a big decision, but focusing on small class sizes, academic excellence, Christian values, extracurricular opportunities, and tuition assistance can help you find the best fit for your child.
Lakeside Christian School in Clearwater, FL offers all of these benefits and more. Our school, created as a ministry to our Clearwater community by Lakeside Community Chapel in 1975, exists to bring God glory and to make Him known to our students. We are committed to providing a faith-based, academically strong education that equips students for success. If you’re searching for the best private elementary school in Clearwater, FL, we invite you to learn more about how Lakeside can support your child’s growth—academically, spiritually, and socially.
Schedule a tour today and discover why so many families choose us for faith-based, high-quality elementary education.
Are you ready to discover why Lakeside Christian School is one of the best private elementary schools in Clearwater FL? Contact us today to learn more about our programs, schedule a campus tour, or discuss enrollment opportunities. We look forward to partnering with your family on this exciting educational journey.
Contact us to schedule a tour or speak with our admissions team. You can reach us at 727-239-7808, email us at office@lakesidechristianschool.org, or fill out our online contact form.
Experience the Lakeside difference—where growth, leadership, and faith come together to prepare students for a bright future.
To schedule a tour of our campus or to learn more about Lakeside Christian School, the best private elementary school in Clearwater, FL, contact us now.
As we enter Quarter 2 at Lakeside Christian School, we’re embarking on a new chapter filled with fresh academic goals, enriching curriculum, and a continued focus on spiritual growth. Whether it’s helping students achieve their academic best or nurturing their spiritual development, our dedicated faculty at Lakeside is committed to providing the supportive, Christ-centered environment families are looking for in private elementary schoolsin Clearwater, FL. We’re ready to make this quarter a standout season for every student, with a strong focus on balancing educational rigor with Christian values.
In Quarter 2, our faculty and staff have set ambitious yet attainable goals for our students, with a mission to support each child’s academic and spiritual journey. At Lakeside Christian School, we believe that Christian elementary schools in Clearwater, FL can do more than provide a foundation in reading, math, science, and history. Our goals include:
Through engaging reading materials and interactive discussions, students in our elementary classes are building a strong literacy foundation. They’re encouraged to think critically, question assumptions, and apply lessons from their reading to their own lives.
In the second quarter, our focus expands on practical math skills and problem-solving techniques that prepare students for real-world applications. From multiplication and division to understanding fractions and geometry, our curriculum aims to empower students with the tools they need to succeed.
Our hands-on science curriculum ignites curiosity in students. They will participate in hands on activities, ask questions about the world around them, and gain a foundational understanding of the scientific method—skills that encourage both discovery and understanding. There are several science based field trips planned for our elementary students this quarter as well.
History lessons go beyond dates and facts. We help students see the bigger picture by connecting historical events to present-day lessons and discussions around Christian values, promoting both empathy and understanding.
By prioritizing these goals, Lakeside Christian School ensures that every student’s academic growth aligns with a balanced approach to learning, helping us maintain our reputation as one of the leading private elementary schools in Clearwater, FL.
With open spots in grades 4 and 5, our team is especially focused on making each day in the classroom meaningful. The curriculum for these grades is designed to be challenging, engaging, and supportive of each student’s learning style.
In grades 4 and 5, students experience a curriculum enriched with project-based learning. This approach helps them apply what they learn in practical ways, from creating science models to working on group research projects that emphasize teamwork and cooperation.
Every subject at Lakeside incorporates biblical principles. Students explore how math, science, history, and language arts can all reflect God’s design. This integration helps students see that their faith is not separate from their learning—it’s a lens through which they view the world and their studies.
As students progress, our writing curriculum emphasizes narrative, expository, and persuasive writing. Writing exercises allow students to develop their voice, structure their thoughts, and communicate effectively—key skills that will support them throughout their academic careers and beyond.
Physical activity plays a vital role in a well-rounded education at Lakeside Christian School. Students in grades 4 and 5 have PE class, enjoy outdoor recess time, and can participate in our Saturday sports program where they compete against other private elementary schools in our area. This quarter’s sport for these grades is lacrosse, providing an exciting way for students to develop teamwork, learn new skills, and stay active.
We recognize that the success of our students extends beyond the classroom. Lakeside Christian School is dedicated to ensuring that students receive a well-rounded education grounded in Christian values. By emphasizing both academic excellence and spiritual growth, we’re helping students prepare for a lifetime of achievement, with a firm foundation in their faith.
Our teachers focus on more than just the mastery of subject matter—they are mentors who foster curiosity, perseverance, and a love for learning. This dedication to both academic and personal growth is what makes Lakeside one of the top Christian elementary schools in Clearwater, FL.
As Lakeside Christian School continues recovery efforts from the recent challenges posed by Hurricane Milton, we remain steadfast in our commitment to providing a safe, nurturing environment where students can grow academically and spiritually. Our recovery journey has only strengthened our sense of community, as parents, staff, and local volunteers have come together to support our mission.
The transition to Quarter 2 comes at a time when students are eager to return to familiar routines, and we offer them a structured, faith-centered environment where they can learn and thrive. With the support of Lakeside Community Chapel, which has been a pillar of our community since it founded our school in 1975, we’re committed to creating a learning space that reflects our values and love for Christ.
At Lakeside Christian School, we believe that a Christian education goes beyond academics. It’s about instilling values, shaping character, and guiding students toward a deeper relationship with God. Most importantly, it’s learning about our Savior, Jesus, and how to have a relationship with Him. As one of the leading Christian elementary schools in Clearwater, FL, we provide students with:
Biblical teachings are woven into every lesson, helping students see how God’s word applies to their lives and studies. Our curriculum emphasizes the importance of understanding salvation in Christ alone, faith, compassion, and integrity, creating a moral compass that will guide students throughout their lives.
All elementary students at Lakeside Christian School learn more about the Lord, His plan for their lives, and the truth of the Bible through daily Bible classes and weekly chapel services.
Lakeside is a supportive environment where students can be themselves, ask questions about the Bible, and feel safe. Our teachers work closely with each student to ensure they feel valued, seen, and loved, that they know they are a unique creation of the Lord with a special purpose for life—a key aspect of learning that we cherish and nurture.
The friendships formed at Lakeside Christian School are grounded in shared values and a commitment to living out Christian principles. We believe that the relationships our students build here will positively impact their spiritual and personal lives for years to come.
As we move forward into Quarter 2, we invite families to join our Lakeside Christian School community. We currently have open spots in grades 4 and 5, and we would love to welcome your child into an environment that values academic excellence and spiritual growth. Interested in enrollment of your K-12 child for the 2025-2026 school year? Contact us to set up a school tour and to learn more. If you’re considering private elementary schools in Clearwater, FL, Lakeside Christian School offers a unique blend of rigorous academics and faith-based learning.
Reach out to us today to schedule a tour or learn more about what makes Lakeside Christian School a place where every child can thrive. Our dedicated teachers and strong support system ensure that every student is “fully equipped” to succeed, both in their studies and their faith journey.
To schedule a tour of our campus or to learn more about Lakeside Christian School, one of the best private Christian elementary schools in Clearwater, FL, contact us now.
Are you ready to join the Lakeside Christian School community? Contact us, and schedule a tour today.
Parents of Students with an Individualized Education Program (IEP) or 504 Plan, Click Here.