Why Middle School Students Benefit From a Private Education

Students entering middle school will experience an assortment of social, spiritual, and academic challenges at a time when they are still figuring out who they are and whom they are going to be. Whether public or private, the school your child attends will be crucial for determining how well they navigate these situations. In this article, we discuss why private middle schools in Clearwater, FL, are the clear choice for parents who want the best for their teen and preteen children. 

 

Overcoming Social Challenges

To say that middle school is socially challenging for students would be an understatement. As Psychology Today puts it: “At least during the first year or two of middle school, most students go through times of feeling socially insecure and emotionally vulnerable.” They may experience a whirlwind of emotions, including self-doubt, embarrassment, loneliness, jealousy, and anger. 

It is during this delicate time that your child will become more independent as they distance themselves from childhood. At Lakeside Christian School, a private middle school in Clearwater, FL, we take these challenges seriously and strive to provide students with the tools they need to successfully navigate situations like these and come into their own as strong, capable leaders. 

 

Taking the Next Step

Middle schools lay the groundwork for whom children will become. Academics must focus on college-readiness during this time. Remember, it’s never too early to prepare students for the coursework and subjects they will be studying in high school and beyond. By the time other schools address preparation gaps in high school, it’s already too late. Students who fall behind are far less likely to be prepared later in life, which is why we use the following college and career readiness checklist to eliminate preparation gaps:

 

  • Data-Driven Instruction
  • Aligned Curriculum
  • Best-Practice Instruction
  • Effective Educators
  • Complementary Technology
  • Biblical Worldview
  • Safe and Secure Learning Environment 

If you fear that your child is falling behind, schedule a tour at our private middle school in Clearwater, FL

 

Receiving Individualized Attention

Smaller class sizes are one of the most well-known advantages that private schools have over public schools. It’s true; public schools can’t compete when it comes to the individualized attention that our private school teachers can give. As mentioned above, your child will be facing an assortment of social challenges. A private school can provide them with the guidance they need to develop into a fully functioning adult. 

At Lakeside Christian School, our team of effective educators can instill in your growing child the lessons they need to thrive. Small class sizes allow them to address students as individuals, not as a crowd, and data-driven instruction allows teachers to highlight problem areas and spotlight accomplishments that would have gone unnoticed in a public school setting. Feel free to contact us and discover how your middle schooler can become a Lakeside Christian School Lion. 

 

If you would like to learn more about Lakeside Christian School, one of the best private middle schools in Clearwater, FL, please give us a call at (727) 239-7808 or schedule a tour of our campus.

How Private Schools Improve College Readiness Part 2

In this two-part article, we are discussing data compiled by national education organizations regarding the high rate of success of private schools at preparing students for college criteria. Although a high school education is extremely important, college readiness actually begins well before high school. The most critical years for learning development are from Kindergarten through 8th Grade.

At Lakeside Christian School, we provide educational programs for elementary school, middle school, and high school. If you are interested in learning more about how your children can achieve academic excellence at a Christian elementary school in Clearwater, FL, please contact a school representative today.   

Take Advantage of the Benefits a Private School Has to Offer

As we discussed in the first part of this article, there are several benefits to enrolling your children in a private school setting including:

  • Along with having the option to choose your child’s school, parents prefer the academic standards, dedicated teaching staff, and excellent resources of a private institution.
  • A private school can provide students with an excellent learning environment including an improved student/teacher ratio. The students are also more likely to achieve their academic goals in both high school and at a four-year college.

There’s also statistical evidence that showcases that a private school curriculum can help students prepare and excel at standardized testing.

Private School Students Surpass Standardized Testing Benchmarks

There are a number of recent studies that support that private school students either meet or exceed the benchmark scores for several important standardized tests. In a 2016 study of the College Board’s SAT assessment, private school students greatly surpassed the national mean score for the most common collegiate standardized test. Similarly, according to data compiled by American College Testing (ACT), private school students performed exceptionally well in their 2012 assessment. If you are interested in learning more about these studies or reviewing other studies related to private school success rates, please visit the Council for American Private Education (CAPE) website.  

Whether it’s a better academic learning environment, improved student/teacher ratio, more challenging curriculum, daily tutoring opportunities, or other excellent resources to cultivate your child’s academic preparation, Lakeside Christian School is committed to providing students with the opportunity to achieve academic excellence.

If you would like to learn more about a prestigious Clearwater, FL, Christian school, please give us a call at (727) 239-7808 or schedule a tour of our campus.

How Private Schools Improve College Readiness Part 1

Several studies within the last decade support the fact that students that attend private schools are more prepared to take on college coursework. Furthermore, they are more likely to graduate with a four-year degree. In this two-part article, we will discuss relevant data compiled from several studies on this topic. We will also discuss many of the benefits of enrolling your children in one of the best private schools in Clearwater, FL.

At Lakeside Christian School, we offer a highly comprehensive college preparation program that provides elementary, middle school, and high school students with core academic preparation, daily tutoring sessions, homework assistance, and small class sizes that focus on the individual needs of each and every student.

Private Schools are Preferred by Parents

There are several reasons to enroll your child in a private school that benefit both your child and your family as a whole. Not only will private school students receive a first-class education, but studies also support that their parents are generally more satisfied with private school facilities, teachers, and overall standards.

According to data compiled by a 2012 study performed by the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), private school parents reportedly give high marks in the following areas:

  • Communication: Private school administrators successfully initiate more effective communication practices with parents. This includes parent-teacher conferences, emailing or calling parents, among other means of communication.
  • Workload: Parents are more satisfied with an improved student/teacher ratio and a more challenging course curriculum to prepare their child for college coursework. Parents also generally feel their children are required to accomplish the right amount of homework at a private school.
  • Higher Learning: Private schools meet parents’ expectations in regard to specific educational attainment levels. Whether it’s influential teachers, tutoring programs, or higher scores on standardized tests like the SAT and ACT, there are many benefits to a private school education system.
  • Community: Parents are more likely to participate in various school-related activities at a private school including fundraisers, conferences, board meetings, in-school events, volunteer opportunities, and other extracurricular events.

Religious Schools Have a Tremendous Graduation Rate

Some studies show that private school students are more likely to obtain a high school diploma, attend a four-year college, and earn a bachelor’s degree. According to data compiled by NCES over a two-year period that began in 2002, 97.2 percent of religious high school sophomores went on to graduate in the summer of 2004 compared to 84.1 percent of public high school sophomores. Similarly, 76.2 percent of these religious high school sophomores were in their second year of college in 2006; whereas, 40.5 percent of public high school students were attending college in the study.

Although the above data was compiled from a study over a decade ago, as we will discuss in the next part of this article, many recent studies released by the SAT and ACT support the idea that private schools meet or surpass benchmark expectations for these standardized tests and better prepare students for their college coursework.    

If you would like to learn more about Lakeside Christian School, a Clearwater private school, please give us a call at (727) 239-7808 or schedule a tour of our campus.

Private Middle School in Clearwater FL

If you are looking for the ideal private middle school in Clearwater, FL, that upholds strong moral principles alongside its academic standards, look no further than Lakeside Christian School. Our caring and close-knit community provides all the resources your middle schooler needs to succeed. We are committed to academic excellence, fellowship, and helping our students reach their fullest potential.

Our Learning Community

At Lakeside Christian School, we provide small classrooms, accelerated curriculums, and brand-new learning technologies to facilitate each and every student’s academic growth. Middle school is such a critical time in a student’s development. As your child transitions out of their carefree elementary school mindset and approaches their teen years, it is especially important for them to be in an emotionally, mentally, and physically safe environment.

LCS employes a strict No Bullying policy and encourages students to be the best version of themselves every day. In order for children to excel academically, they must feel comfortable in their learning environment. We strive daily for our school to feel like a “home away from home” and a place of limitless opportunity.

College Preparatory Academics

Preparing your child for college begins at an early age. We believe in helping each student maximize his or her potential beginning in kindergarten. By the time they are in middle school, students tend to start forming more serious plans about their future. At LCS, we help ensure these dreams can be realized.

Our accelerated academics prepare middle schoolers for the realities of high school, which in turn prepares them for college. We believe challenging and encouraging students during this pivotal time keeps them focused on what they can achieve. Since 1975, we have been an esteemed private middle school in Clearwater, FL, widely recognized for our effective college preparatory program, first-rate academics, and caring community. We are proud to say that our high school has a 100% graduation rate and that we have sent countless students off to the college of their dreams.

Looking at Private Middle Schools in Clearwater, FL?

If you’re searching for private middle schools in Clearwater, FL, we invite you to take a look at LCS in action! We provide 1-on-1 tours, so parents can truly envision what their student’s day-to-day life would be like in our fun, challenging, and compassionate learning environment.

Worried about the cost of a private school education? Don’t be! We are a Step Up For Students participating school, so your child could receive a scholarship. Check out the Step Up website for details. For more information on Lakeside Christian School or to schedule a tour, please give us a call at (727) 239-7808 or fill out this form.

Christian Middle School Clearwater FL

Your child’s school is one of the biggest influences in his or her daily life, so it can be a big and (understandably) stressful decisions for parents. If you are searching for a Christian Middle School in Clearwater, FL, we invite you to consider joining the LCS family!

Who We Are

Lakeside Christian School is a small private school with big academics and an enormous sense of purpose.

Our student body is comprised of everyone from accelerated learners to children who are filled with potential but still need a little extra help channeling their talents. Our compassionate and disciplined teachers are the heartbeat of our community. They take pride in each of their students and are invested in each child’s daily happiness, academic success, and long-term future.

What We Believe

At LCS, we believe that in glorifying God through education, service, and kindness. We teach our students to be the best version of themselves every single day.

We believe that a Christian school should welcome those of any faith with open arms, as Christ taught us. Especially at this fragile pre-teen age, we instill the morals of compassion and treating others as one would like to be treated. Our No Bullying policy is firmly enforced.

We believe children should be raised in an environment that reflects the vibrant diversity of Pinellas County. At LCS, we are proud to provide this type of community. However, we also know that diversity is about more than just ethnic background. Our students range from academically advance “gifted” students (though we believe every student has unique gifts!) to behaviorally-challenged students who require a compassionate yet firm helping hand.

We believe that a first-rate private school education should be available to all children who would thrive in our community, not just those with the financial means to do so. We are proud to be an official Step Up for Students participating school. Make sure to check out their website to determine whether your child is eligible for one of the four Step Up scholarships.

See Us In Action

At LCS, we encourage confidence, individuality, and friendship every day. We teach students to live in a way that uplifts others and mirrors God’s love for us. We provide a strong academic foundation on which students can build a lifetime of career success. But don’t just take our word for it—come see for yourself!

We provide 1-on-1 tours for those looking at Christian middle schools in Clearwater, FL, so you can take the most realistic look at our environment as possible. To schedule a visit or ask us any questions, please give us a call at (727) 239-7808 or fill out this form.

Lakeside Christian School: Our Commitment to Academic Excellence

Choosing the right school for your child is one of the most important decisions you can make as a parent. At Lakeside Christian School, we understand the weight of this choice and are committed to offering an education that balances academic excellence with spiritual growth. As one of the leading private middle schools in Clearwater, FL, and a top Christian elementary school in Clearwater, FL, our mission is to cultivate an environment where every student can thrive academically and spiritually.

A Strong Academic Foundation

At Lakeside Christian School, we believe that academic excellence begins with a strong foundation. Our elementary school curriculum engages young learners in a way that fosters curiosity, critical thinking, and a love for learning. From the earliest grades, students are introduced to core subjects such as reading, writing, math, and science through a Christ-centered lens, helping them to see how their faith intersects with every aspect of their education.

Our dedicated and caring teachers are dedicated to nurturing the potential in each student. With small class sizes, students receive personalized attention, ensuring that no one falls through the cracks. This individualized approach allows us to meet students where they are, whether they need additional support or are ready to be challenged with advanced material.

Accredited Excellence: ACSI and Cognia

At Lakeside Christian School, our commitment to academic excellence is demonstrated through our dual accreditation with the Association of Christian Schools International (ACSI) and Cognia. These prestigious accreditations are a testament to our dedication to maintaining high standards in both education and spiritual development, ensuring that our students receive a top-quality, Christ-centered private school education.

ACSI Accreditation

As a member of the Association of Christian Schools International, Lakeside Christian School is part of a global network of Christian schools committed to providing an education that integrates faith and learning. ACSI accreditation is a rigorous process that evaluates privates schools based on their academic programs, faculty qualifications, and Christian atmosphere. This accreditation ensures that our curriculum not only meets but exceeds national academic standards while also fostering spiritual growth and character development in our students.

Being ACSI-accredited means that we are held to high standards in our teaching practices, student outcomes, and overall school environment. It also means that our students are part of a community that values Christian education and is dedicated to preparing them for success both in this life and the next.

Cognia Accreditation

In addition to our ACSI accreditation, Lakeside Christian School is also accredited by Cognia, a globally recognized organization that provides accreditation and certification for educational institutions. Cognia accreditation is a mark of quality that reflects our commitment to continuous improvement and educational excellence.

Cognia’s accreditation process involves a thorough evaluation of our school’s leadership, learning environment, and student achievement. This ensures that we are not only meeting but also striving to exceed the expectations of parents and students in providing a well-rounded, academically challenging education.

The Importance of Dual Accreditation

Our dual accreditation with ACSI and Cognia sets us apart from other private Christian schools in Clearwater, Fl and underscores our commitment to excellence in every aspect of our educational program. For parents, this means peace of mind knowing that their child is receiving an education that is both academically rigorous and rooted in Christian values. For students, it means being part of a school community that prioritizes their academic success, spiritual growth, and overall well-being.

At Lakeside Christian School, we are proud to uphold the standards set by ACSI and Cognia, and we are continually working to improve and enhance the educational experience we offer. Our accreditations are not just a badge of honor; they are a reflection of our dedication to providing an education that equips every student for a successful and meaningful future.

Middle School: A Time for Growth and Discovery

The middle school years are a pivotal time in a student’s life. It’s a period of rapid growth and discovery, where students begin to take ownership of their education and develop the skills they will carry into high school and beyond. At Lakeside Christian School, our middle school classes, athletic programs, and chapel services are designed to guide students through this transition with a balanced approach that emphasizes both academic rigor and spiritual development.

Our curriculum is tailored to challenge students intellectually while nurturing their spiritual and emotional growth. In subjects like math, science, history, and language arts, students are encouraged to think critically, engage in thoughtful discussions, and explore complex concepts. At the same time, our required Bible classes and chapel services provide a space for students to deepen their faith and develop a personal relationship with Christ.

We also offer a variety of extracurricular activities that allow students to explore their interests and develop new skills. These activities not only enrich their educational experience but also teach valuable lessons in teamwork, leadership, and perseverance.

Integrating Faith and Learning

What sets Lakeside Christian School apart from other private middle schools and Christian elementary schools in Clearwater, FL, is our commitment to integrating faith into every aspect of our curriculum. We believe that a true education goes beyond academics; it involves shaping the whole person—mind, body, and spirit.

In every subject, from science to literature, our Christian educators encourage students to view the world through a biblical lens. This approach helps them to see the relevance of their faith in all areas of life and prepares them to navigate the challenges of the modern world with a Christ-centered perspective.

Our faculty and staff model this integration of faith and learning in their own lives, serving as mentors and role models for our students. Whether it’s in the classroom, on the sports field, or in chapel, our educators are committed to helping students grow in their knowledge of God and His Word.

Preparing Students for the Future

At Lakeside Christian School, we are not just preparing students for the next grade level; we are preparing them for life. Our commitment to academic excellence means that our students are well-equipped for the challenges of high school, college, and beyond. But more importantly, they leave Lakeside with a strong foundation of faith, character, and values that will guide them throughout their lives.

We believe that every student is uniquely gifted and created for a purpose by God, and it is our mission to help them discover and develop those gifts. Through a combination of rigorous academics, Biblical education, and character development, we strive to equip our students to be leaders who make a positive impact on their communities and the world.

Why Choose Lakeside Christian School?

Choosing a school is about more than just academics; it’s about finding a community that shares your values and will partner with you in raising your child. At Lakeside Christian School, we are committed to providing a safe, nurturing environment where students can grow academically, spiritually, and emotionally.

Our small class sizes, dedicated teachers, and Christ-centered curriculum make us one of the best private middle schools and Christian elementary schools in Clearwater, FL. We invite you to visit our campus, meet our faculty, and see for yourself the difference that a Lakeside education can make in your child’s life.

Conclusion

Lakeside Christian School is dedicated to academic excellence, but our commitment goes beyond the classroom. We are passionate about developing the whole student—intellectually, spiritually, and emotionally. With our Christ-centered approach to education, we aim to equip every student with the knowledge, skills, and faith they need to succeed in life.

If you’re looking for a Christian private middle school or private Christian elementary school in Clearwater, FL, that values both academic achievement and spiritual growth, we invite you to learn more about Lakeside Christian School.

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, FLcontact us now.

A Community of Faith and Fellowship: The Importance of Spiritual Development at Lakeside Christian School

While academic achievement and extracurricular activities undoubtedly play crucial roles in shaping a student’s life, Lakeside Christian School has a primary mission to teach the truth of God’s Word and present the Gospel to its students. This esteemed institution has established itself as a nurturing and compassionate community of faith and fellowship, prioritizing fully equipping students with knowledge of the Bible and faith in Christ alone for salvation.

At Lakeside Christian School, the best private school in Clearwater, FL, education extends beyond textbooks and lectures. It encompasses the formation of character and values, recognizing that Biblical instruction is an integral part of a student’s educational journey. With this understanding, our school strives to create an environment that fosters growth in Biblical knowledge and faith.

The Benefits of Spiritual Development in Children

Since its opening in 1975, Lakeside Christian School has sought to carry on the mission of its founding church, Lakeside Community Chapel pastored by Stephen Kreloff. Like the church, the school seeks to proclaim Christ, teach wisdom from God’s Word, and present every student with complete knowledge of the Gospel and salvation. Lakeside’s spiritual mission is that all students would come to know, love, and honor the Lord Jesus Christ. Lakeside Christian School exists to bring God glory and to make Him known to our students.

At Lakeside Christian School, education goes beyond textbooks and lectures. It encompasses the formation of character and values, recognizing that a strong spiritual foundation is essential for students to lead purposeful and fulfilling lives. By nurturing their spiritual well-being, we aim to empower students to become not only academically successful but also compassionate, ethical, and spiritually grounded individuals.

Improvement Through Spiritual Development

Lakeside Christian School’s Christ-centered education allows our students to cultivate a deep and meaningful relationship with God. It encourages them to embrace their faith and live out its principles. As the top private middle school in Clearwater, FL, Lakeside Christian School places great emphasis on community and fellowship. This focus has proven beneficial to students in multiple ways. Students are encouraged to build relationships with their peers, teachers, and mentors, creating a supportive network that uplifts and guides them on their spiritual journey.

Promoting Spiritual Growth

One of the hallmarks of Lakeside Christian School’s approach is its Christ-centered education. Students are encouraged to embrace their faith and live out its principles in their daily lives. By fostering a deep and meaningful relationship with God, Lakeside creates an environment where students can explore and strengthen their spiritual beliefs.

Apart from integrating faith intentionally within the curriculum, Lakeside Christian School provides various extracurricular activities that further promote spiritual growth. The various programs, including competitive athletics, offer students opportunities to apply their faith in practical ways, extending their learning beyond the classroom. These experiences foster a sense of purpose and instill in students a desire to help others and make a positive difference in society.

Within this nurturing community of faith and fellowship, students are provided with opportunities for prayer, worship, and reflection. Chapel services are integrated into the school’s schedule to allow students to deepen their understanding of their faith and engage in spiritual introspection. Through these experiences, students develop a sense of awe and reverence for the world around them, seeing it as a reflection of God’s creation.

Community and Fellowship

Lakeside Christian School places great emphasis on community and fellowship, understanding that spiritual growth can be nurtured through positive relationships. Students are encouraged to build strong connections with their peers, teachers, and mentors. This supportive network becomes a pillar of strength for students, uplifting and guiding them on their spiritual journey.

We actively promote an atmosphere of love, respect, and empathy, where each individual is valued for their unique qualities and contributions. Students are taught the importance of compassion and service to others, reinforcing the belief that a life of faith is not just about personal spiritual maturity but also about sharing the gospel with others.

Lakeside Christian School: Building a Sense of Faith Among Its Students

At Lakeside Christian School, we understand that following Christ is a lifelong journey. We understand that the Biblical values and beliefs instilled in students during their formative years will play a crucial role in shaping their character and guiding their decisions throughout their lives.

By nurturing their spiritual well-being, we equip students with the tools they need to face moral dilemmas and make ethical decisions with confidence and integrity. This strong foundation of faith empowers students to find profound meaning and purpose in their lives, guiding them in becoming responsible and compassionate members of society.

We aim to mold not only the minds of our students but also their hearts and souls by embracing the holistic development of each individual, setting them on a path toward a fulfilling and purposeful life. As the best private school in Clearwater, FL, Lakeside Christian School remains dedicated to nurturing the biblical faith of its students and inspiring them to become compassionate, ethical, and spiritually grounded leaders of tomorrow.

To learn more about Lakeside Christian School, the top private middle schools in Clearwater, FL, contact us now and help your child embark on their journey of self-discovery.

5 Tips To Set Your Child Up For A Successful School Year

The start of a new school year comes with many challenges for both parents and children.

For private middle schools in Clearwater Florida, that stress is magnified ten times. This is due in large part to two things, the first is the more strict curriculum that the students must follow, and the second is the stress of being unprepared for the coming year.

So to make sure both you and your child’s school year goes off without a hitch, here are 5 tips that will make this school year a success.

Take A Personal Interest

Kids for the most part have no idea how to manage a heavy schedule, and classes tend to be much more strict in private schools due to the more personalized teaching method available. As such it is very common for things to slip their mind, either they’ll forget an assignment or a permission slip they need to sign. We recommend that instead of asking “how was school” and getting the same nod of the head for the millionth time ask if they need help with their homework or even any questions they may have about the lesson.

Go On A Campus Tour

Although a campus tour is something mostly done when your child is getting ready to leave for college, a campus tour for the new year especially if this is their first year at this school is actually incredibly helpful. Here at Lakeside Christian School one of the top christian middle schools in Clearwater Florida, we get several campus tours every year and highly recommend coming together with your child to get an idea of what is in store for the both of you.

Explain The Curriculum

Sometimes the most challenging part for students transitioning from public school to private school is the curriculum. Our curriculum is more structured around your child’s individual needs as such they will be challenged more, which can be incredibly stressful. To better prepare them we recommend walking them through what is in store for them, how this is like their old school, and how this is different from their current school. One big thing is the focus on character development we put in our curriculum, not all Christian middle schools in Clearwater Florida include this but we believe that this is a vital step to foster your child’s relationship with God.

Set Goals And Deadlines

Giving your child a simple goal that they can reach within a manageable timeline will do incredible things for them. By having them complete these simple goals they start to build their confidence and it also keeps them motivated, especially if you offer them some sort of reward for completing their goal.

Make The Home A Learning Environment

The second kids step into the home they completely forget about everything that happens at school, they get on their phone or start playing video games with no regard to anything else. To amend this we recommend making the home a learning environment. This means the teaching doesn’t stop even when they get home. A popular tool we recommend is having them help you with cooking. Not only is it fun, but having them measure the ingredients fosters new interest and also creates a learning environment.

Lakeside Christian School: Get In Contact With Us

The start of a new school year is always a scary thing, but following these steps you should see a change in your child’s attitude.

Contact us Lakeside Christian School, the top private school in Clearwater Florida and see how we can help you this school year.

Step Up for Students First Responders Program – What You Need to Know

The Florida Tax Credit Scholarship Program, which started in 1998 with the aim of giving low-income families a choice in where their children attended school, eventually led to the creation of Step Up for Students in Clearwater, FL scholarships.

Ever since it began by supporting 750 children in Florida, Step Up for Students has expanded to assist approximately 80,000 students across the entire state. The scholarship enables parents to send their children to participating private schools if they feel they are not getting a decent education at their neighborhood schools.

What Makes the Step Up for Students Program Different?

The Step Up for Students scholarship program is exceptional because it concentrates on students with the fewest alternatives for improving their educational quality. According to research, Step Up for Students scholarships primarily help low-performing students, and they give parents a chance to help their kids succeed.

With the help of Step Up for Students in Clearwater, FL, schools offer high-quality education in preparation for a better future. This award has become more valuable every year and gives young, talented people a chance to pay for private education.

Is Step Up for Students Available for Private Middle Schools in Clearwater, Florida?

Yes, Lakeside Christian School accepts and rewards middle school children whose parents are eligible for Step Up for Students in Clearwater, FL.

Lakeside Christian is one of the few private high schools in Clearwater, Florida, to extend this scholarship to students of all age groups.

Through this program, the Lakeside Christian School is enabling students across economic and social backgrounds to access high-quality education that was previously only available to those with financial means.

All children are provided with the process, curriculum, and resources necessary by the K–12 private school to learn more quickly than they would in a regular classroom.

Unaffected by parent poverty, a sizable portion of children both locally and nationally have severe deficiencies in prior grade-level skills, which hinders their success in high school and college.

How Can I Apply?

Parents and students who are interested in applying for the scholarship must go to stepupforstudents.org and select the “Learn More/Apply Now” tab. Enrollment is currently open for the academic year 2022–2023. Click the “Apply” button for the next step.

Users are first led to the registration page of the portal. Here, you must fill in the name, email address, and contact information, as well as set up a password. You will be required to provide further information supported by pertinent documents after logging in with your registered account, including:

  • Paycheck stubs (30 consecutive days closest to when you submit your application)
  • Residence documentation for every household member (e.g., health insurance, Medicaid, income paperwork, energy bills, court custody records, or a residential lease identifying all household members)
  • All potential sources of income (for example, unemployment payments, social security benefits, child support benefits, and so on)
  • Primary and secondary parents’ licenses, passports, etc.
  • Members of the US Armed Forces may be requested for a copy of the Leave and Earning Statements (LES)

The first step is to ascertain your eligibility for the program, and only then can you complete the entire registration process. The website has clearly listed all the eligibility criteria for this purpose.

Do you have questions regarding the Lakeside Christian Step Up for Students in Clearwater, FL application procedure? Please call us today at (727) 239-7808 or visit our website.

When Should I Apply For the Step Up Scholarship?

For many people, the ability to send their children to private school seems out of reach because of cost. However, in recent years the State of Florida has made strides to bring private school within reach for thousands, possibly even millions, of students with the popular Step Up for Students scholarship. In fact, as of 2021 around 62% of students in Florida (2.2 million children) are eligible for a tax-credit scholarship or voucher.

If you’re considering applying to Step Up for Students participating schools in Clearwater, FL, there are a few important steps to understand so that you can apply and qualify for this scholarship before funds run out. In this brief article, our team of advisors at Lakeside Christian School shares the most important things to know about the Step Up for Students scholarship and how to take full advantage of the program.

 

What You Need to Know About Step Up for Students in Clearwater, FL

Step Up for Students scholarships is part of the Florida Tax Credit Scholarship Program, which was initiated in 1998 to give lower-income students and families more choice in regard to where to receive an education. That scholarship allowed parents the opportunity to take their children to participating private schools if they felt they were not being served with quality in their local public schools. It has since evolved to include four separate scholarship opportunities:

  • Florida Tax Credit: Provides students in kindergarten through 12th grade with a scholarship to assist in school choice, expenses, and transportation to public or private schools.
  • Family Empowerment (formerly known as the Gardiner Scholarship): Created to help children with unique abilities and special needs by directing money toward a combination of programs and approved providers, including schools, therapists, specialists, curriculum, technology – even a college savings account.
  • The Hope Scholarship: Available to students in grades kindergarten through 12th grade who are enrolled in a Florida public school and have been bullied, harassed, assaulted, threatened and/or a victim of other violent acts.
  • The Reading Scholarship: Created to help children in third through fifth grade who struggle with reading.

The Step Up for Students scholarship program is different because it targets students who tend to have the most limited options for improving the quality of their education. Families who are active duty military can also qualify for this scholarship. It should be noted, however, that these scholarships may not cover 100% of tuition costs.

 

When Should You Apply for the Step Up Scholarship?

Although the Step Up for Students Scholarship is a great opportunity, you may find that funds quickly run out if you wait too long to apply. In some cases, the deadline to apply for scholarships for the following school year is June 4.

It can take anywhere from 3-5 weeks to process your application, and in most cases Clearwater, FL private middle schools prefer that you apply for scholarships before or during the application process for admission. However, you may find it more beneficial to speak with the school you are considering directly. School advisors will help guide you through the process of both applying for admission and applying for financial assistance.

It should also be noted that Step Up for Students Scholarship prioritizes the application process for lower-income applicants. If you are applying for a scholarship and do not meet the income requirements, your application may still be processed but it may take slightly longer for a response.

 

How to Apply for the Step Up Scholarship

When Step Up For Students is accepting applications for the income-based scholarships families must complete an online application and submit the required supporting documentation. These documents may vary from one application to the next depending on each family’s situation. However, you will typically need to submit:

  • Paystubs (30 consecutive days closest to when you submit your application)
  • Proof of residency for all members in the household (i.e., health insurance, Medicaid, income documentation, utility bills, court custody documents or residential lease listing household members)
  • Any other sources of income (i.e., unemployment benefits, social security benefits, child support benefits, etc.)
  • Driver’s license or passport for primary and secondary parents

To apply for a Christian middle school in Clearwater, FL, including Lakeside Christian School, you will need to speak with the school’s advisors to discuss any additional information that may be needed.

Once you have been awarded a scholarship, you will need to print your award letter and submit it to the school of your choice. Then, the school administrator can complete and submit a School Commitment Form for your student to let Step Up for Students know your child is attending their school on the scholarship. It is crucial to note: for a Florida Tax Credit Scholarship student to be properly enrolled and receive payment, the parent MUST take the award letter to the school of your choice as soon as possible, in order to secure your award.

With over 40 years of experience and a diverse student body of children from families of all socioeconomic backgrounds and income levels, Lakeside Christian School is built on the biblical principles of loving God and loving others. This care is demonstrated through the warm, respectful relationships among staff and between staff and students, and uses a tailored approach to your child’s education. If you’re interested in learning more about how we challenge all of our students to achieve their academic and personal goals, give us a call.

Each year, Lakeside, the best private school in Clearwater, FL, provides over $250,000 in scholarships to qualified families. For more information and to schedule a tour, please call Jim Jensen, Administrator at (727) 477-8542. New inquiries only. For all other concerns, please use: (727) 461-3311.

 

If you would like to learn more about Lakeside Christian School, a Christian middle school in Clearwater, FL, please give us a call at (727) 239-7808 or schedule a tour of our campus.

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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.

 

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