At Lakeside Christian School, a private Christian school in Clearwater, Florida, we have a strong foundation of faith and community, and it’s this foundation that helps us persevere through challenges. In the wake of Hurricane Milton, our campus has experienced significant water damage, temporarily closing the school. Yet, as we strive to reopen and welcome students back to their classrooms, the response from our school community and Lakeside Community Chapel is inspiring. Thanks to the support of our extended family, we are working hard to ensure our students are back in a safe and thriving environment. Our commitment to being a leader among private Christian schools in Clearwater, FL, remains steadfast, and we look forward to welcoming back K-8 students on Monday, October 21, and 9-12 students on Wednesday, October 23. Our 9-12 students will be able to complete online review lessons from home on October 21-22 to prepare them for their on campus return, ready to start their quarter 2 classwork.
The damage from Hurricane Milton left our gym and first floor flooded, with many areas requiring complete restoration. While challenging, the support from parents, staff, and Lakeside Community Chapel has truly showcased our school’s strength. From the very beginning, the church, which founded our school as a ministry in 1975, has been actively involved in clean-up efforts and providing logistical support for recovery.
Together, our community is rallying to restore our campus and provide a space where students can continue their academic and spiritual growth. This cooperation among parents, alumni, church members, teachers, and student volunteers is a testament to the unique strength of private Christian schools in Clearwater, FL, where collaboration and shared faith guide our actions.
At Lakeside Christian School, faith is at the core of everything we do. During this time, it has been heartening to see so many community members coming together with the shared goal of restoring our campus. Our students, parents, and faculty have all pitched in, contributing time and resources to help us rebuild. Our partnership with Lakeside Community Chapel has been instrumental, with the church’s support serving as a true reminder of how our Christian values manifest in times of need.
As we navigate this process, we are reminded of the words of Psalm 46:1: “God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.” At Lakeside Christian School, we believe that our reliance on God’s guidance strengthens us as a community, especially in times of adversity.
Safety is a priority as we work to reopen our campus. With the help of professional restoration teams, we are addressing the necessary repairs to ensure that each classroom is safe and conducive to learning. We are working diligently to meet our reopening goals, ensuring that our school environment is once again ready for students.
While repairs are underway, we also continue to prioritize academic excellence. As one of the most respected private Christian schools in Clearwater, FL, our focus remains on providing high-quality education and Biblical guidance. As our second quarter begins, we are excited to re-engage students with a renewed commitment to both their academic and spiritual growth.
Lakeside Christian School’s commitment to integrity and perseverance is also recognized in our athletics program. We were honored to be named runner-up for the FHSAA Sportsmanship Award last year, underscoring our dedication to values like respect, teamwork, and discipline.
Our students learn the value of sportsmanship, not just on the field but in everyday life. Through participation in sports, they experience firsthand the importance of perseverance, commitment, and representing Christ. These are the same values that guide our recovery from Hurricane Milton, as our school community strives to be a beacon of light and hope in Clearwater.
Amid the recovery, our students and coaches are already looking forward to the upcoming winter sports season, including basketball and soccer. Football, volleyball, and cross country will wrap up their seasons over the next few weeks. The start of these winter athletics programs provides our students with opportunities to bond, build resilience, and strengthen their athletic abilities. The delay in reopening has not dampened our enthusiasm; instead, it has highlighted the importance of community, resilience, and teamwork—values that are at the heart of both our academic and athletic programs. Our volleyball and football teams have been able to continue their practices even though school is not yet in session.
With basketball and soccer seasons on the horizon, students and coaches are prepared to uphold the same level of sportsmanship and dedication they displayed during the fall. We are excited for these programs to contribute positively to our school community, reinforcing our commitment to fostering both spiritual and physical growth.
The support from our community has been invaluable, and for those who wish to contribute, there are multiple ways to help us rebuild. Whether it’s through financial donations, volunteer time, or prayer, every bit of support helps. Those interested in contributing can contact our administrative office at office@lakesidechristianschool.org to learn more about specific needs.
It’s in moments like these that we realize the importance of unity within our school family. Lakeside Christian School is more than a campus; it’s a community of families, students, and educators who share a commitment to living out their faith.
Despite these recent challenges, Lakeside Christian School continues to be one of the leading private Christian schools in Clearwater, FL. If you’re considering a faith-centered education for your K-12 child, we invite you to learn more about our school’s programs, values, and unwavering commitment to excellence. We are currently enrolling both new student for this year (spots are limited so please contact us for availability) and we are currently enrolling for the upcoming school year. We would love to share how Lakeside Christian School is uniquely equipped to nurture both academic achievement and spiritual growth.
If you are exploring safe, academically challenging, accredited private schools in Clearwater, FL, we encourage you to visit our website or call to schedule a tour. Let us show you how Lakeside Christian School’s dedication to providing a supportive and faith-filled environment can make a lasting difference in your child’s life.
To schedule a tour of our campus or to learn more about Lakeside Christian School, one of the best private Christian schools in Clearwater, FL, contact us now.