When you hear the words “college and career readiness,” you likely don’t think of an elementary or even a middle school student. For most parents, elementary and middle school is a time for their student to develop a foundation of fundamental academic skills, basic knowledge, and socialization strategies they’ll need to succeed in their high school education. However, one private school in Clearwater is revolutionizing the way we look at college preparation.
Lakeside Christian School believes that college preparation begins long before high school or even middle school — in elementary school. The skills and knowledge they acquire in elementary school serve as the seeds for college preparation. In this brief article, we’ll provide an overview of this philosophy as well as the steps Lakeside Christian School has implemented to ensure their students are college-ready and equipped for success.
Related: How Private Schools Improve College Readiness
The philosophy of implementing college and career readiness in elementary school is not, in any means, an attempt to contribute to the latest college admissions frenzy. In no way do we endorse lining up your child’s achievements to consider how they might play on a college application. Instead, our philosophy involves ensuring your child is learning more than simply how to pass a test or get an “A.”
Even as early as elementary school, we believe that students should be encouraged to think about the future and link their interests to potential careers. This goes for parents as well. If you notice your child falling behind, it’s important to act quickly to get them caught up. The longer you wait, the more difficult it will become to get your child back on track. This is a large part of why we believe in starting this process so early.
Related: 3 Important Ways to Foster Your Child’s Development in Elementary School
So how does Lakeside Christian School, a private school in Clearwater, act on this philosophy? First, our Mastering Learning Division supports all our students in grades K-5 with a solid academic foundation in language arts and mathematics, including accelerated learning solutions and robust early reading intervention. We’ve seen firsthand how difficult it is for young students who never developed reading and writing skills, which is why we place such a strong focus on producing competent readers and early reading achievement.
The results are already clear. At Lakeside Christian School, we are consistently and frequently seeing our students improve by two or more grade levels and even go beyond their grade level in math and reading. Thanks to an effective blend of curriculum, technology, and talented educators, your child will be on a secure path towards college and career readiness. Classes fill quickly. If you are considered attending, we invite you to contact us to find out what we have already done to prepare so many children for a bright future of educational opportunity.
If you would like to learn more about Lakeside Christian School, one of the top private schools in Clearwater, FL, please give us a call at (727) 239-7808 or schedule a tour of our campus.
The activities students partake in outside the classroom is as equally important as what they do inside the classroom. School athletics and extracurricular programs help boost your child receive a perfectly balanced educational experience. Students participating in one of our school’s seasonal productions or taking the field for their respective athletic team learn how to be a part of something larger than themselves.
Lakeside Christian School offers a variety of other extracurricular activities, including tutoring lessons and educational programs to ensure that your child is receiving an excellent education at one of the top private high schools in Clearwater, FL.
The benefits of participating in high school athletics have been studied across the country. Athletic programs provide students with real-life problem solving skills, character building, and a great opportunity to bond with their peers. At Lakeside Christian, we offer a full complement of seasonal sports, including but not limited to: football, basketball (for boys and girls), baseball and softball, soccer, and track and field.
High school students aren’t the only age group that can participate in athletics. Middle school and elementary level sports are also available for students to enjoy, including coed soccer, flag football, volleyball, and many more options. Our devoted staff of coaches build strong relationships with our students by teaching them the fundamentals of each sport and encouraging them to strive for their very best.
Lakeside Christian School is a member of the Florida High School Athletic Association (FHSAA) and the Florida Christian Association of Private and Parochial Schools (FCAPPS) competing against other private high schools in Clearwater, FL, and the surrounding Tampa Bay area. We want our students to take full advantage of all the opportunities they’re presented at our school.
Related: LCS Athletics Quick Facts
Personal expression through art can be one of the most powerful and thoughtful exercises in the world. At Lakeside Christian, we encourage all of our students to unveil their creativity. Our private high school in Clearwater, FL, boasts a full theatre department that produces three outstanding productions each year. We also provide students with the opportunity to helm their own production with a set of student directed plays. In the past, our student led productions have included works from Shakespeare and a musical of the acclaimed novel “Bridge to Terabithia.”
Related: LCS Fine Arts Quick Facts
Along with our theatre program, we take great pride in our visual technology department, where students learn how to produce, film, and edit videos. Students in the past have crafted commercials, music videos, and various other video projects as part of this program. At Lakeside Christian, we offer a variety of creative and artistic after-school programs, including music lessons (guitar, piano, singing). Any of our students who sing or pursue a musical instrument are given the opportunity to play at our chapel service.
Daily tutoring sessions outside the classroom are strongly encouraged at Lakeside Christian, as we want to enhance your child’s success in their academic pursuits. Our afterschool homework program allows students to focus and work through coursework that may be particularly challenging. Extracurriculars at Lakeside Chrisrtian School provide our students with a constructive outlet to excel in. As a smaller private highschool in Clearwater, FL we are able to focus on our modest number of students to better understand your child’s interests so that they can excel in and out of school.
If you would like to learn more about private high schools in Clearwater, FL, like Lakeside Christian School, please give us a call at (727) 239-7808 or schedule a tour of our campus.
The start to your child’s education can mean the difference between them developing helpful or harmful learning habits. Over time, the learning habits developed during elementary school will be carried through middle school, into high school, and eventually into college. Lakeside Christian School is an affordable private elementary school in Clearwater, FL, that focuses on your child’s individual learning needs.
Our small class sizes and supportive teaching staff are the foundation that ensures your child receives the utmost attention and encouragement they need to grow. The future academic success of your child can be directly attributed to their elementary school teachings. At Lakeside Christian School, we believe that a focus on reading and an active and supportive teaching style will give your child the guidance they need to have a successful learning experience from elementary school through high school and beyond.
Unfortunately, many children lack the necessary reading comprehension as they progress through school. As one of the top private elementary schools in Clearwater, FL, we can provide the best education possible for your child by ensuring they have a solid foundation of reading skills to build on as they grow. Developing beneficial reading habits in elementary school stokes children’s love for reading as their ability to retain and comprehend information is reinforced for the future.
A summer reading log is one way we encourage our students to improve their reading skills outside of the classroom. We pride ourselves on helping our students develop exceptional reading comprehension levels to better enhance their learning retention and overall scholastic experience.
Related: 3 Important Ways to Foster Your Child’s Development
Elementary school should be about setting the framework for your child’s future academic success while also encouraging their creativity in the classroom. A supportive teacher and mentor can be all a child needs to become passionate about learning. Your child’s elementary school teacher will be their first experience with a formal education and can make the greatest influence on your child’s future education.
Our teachers also work to keep parents informed with a weekly newsletter including a weekly schedule, worksheets, and, most importantly, individual notes about your child. There are many options for an affordable private elementary school in Clearwater, FL, but Lakeside Christian School ensures your child will receive the highest standard of teaching available and give your child the tools they need to grow academically and creatively.
Related: What I Learned on My Kindergarten Tour
Lakeside Christian School offers a number of scholarships for students. Through the Family Empowerment Scholarship, we empower countless children and their families by helping them gain access to a private education regardless of their financial background. We firmly believe that all children should have access to private education and, thanks to a number of scholarships, including Step Up for Students, the McKay Scholarship, and our own FACTS scholarship, we can make it possible. Through our devoted faculty at Lakeside Christian School, our students cultivate academic qualities at a young age that will last them their entire scholastic career and showcase why we are one of the best private elementary schools in Clearwater, FL.
If you would like to learn more about an affordable private elementary school in Clearwater, FL, like Lakeside Christian School, please give us a call at (727) 239-7808 or schedule a tour of our campus.
As our culture continues to shift around us, so should the way we prepare our children to enter it. While there may be a hot debate within the educational community as to how to prepare our children for success, the main purpose of elementary education is to foster the growth of crucial cognitive and social abilities that will be further developed later on in their educational careers. This not only includes shifting the traditional paradigm of the classroom but also embracing teaching methodologies that put a renewed focus on inclusion and problem-solving.
In this article, we discuss three current trends in education that can help boost student success. While there will always be differing viewpoints as to the best teaching methods, our affordable private elementary school in Clearwater, FL, will continue to monitor the latest innovations in teaching to create the absolute best environment for your children to thrive in.
One of the issues at the forefront of elementary education is how to keep young minds interested and engaged in STEM education, which focuses on the integration of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. According to the U.S. News and World Report,“by the time students reach fourth grade, a third of boys and girls have lost an interest in science. By eighth grade, almost 50 percent have lost interest or deemed it irrelevant to their education or future plans.”
Many believe that the way to combat this lack of interest is to promote inquiry-based learning from the beginning. As opposed to traditional methods, inquiry-based learning promotes active learning by posing questions or problems in which the student is given the tools to figure the answer out themselves, not just listening to the teacher tell them the answer and try to retain that information. This is the basis of how STEM knowledge is taught, so when the time comes for them to be introduced to it, they will be more ready.
Think back to your elementary school days — remember the discomfort of being broken into small groups for projects and being forced to work with classmates you didn’t know too well? At first, you may have been a little uncomfortable working in groups that didn’t always include your closest friends, but, over time, you discovered that these other students had lots of important lessons to teach you. The five key elements of cooperative learning are:
This method of education tries to steer away from the “in one ear, out the other” issue commonly found in education. Many young students believe that they will never need school-related lessons outside of the classroom, so why bother retaining the information? PBL addresses this issue by introducing a dynamic approach to learning in which students develop knowledge by exploring real-world problems or scenarios for an extended period of time, allowing for authentic discoveries that they arrive at by working through the issue. This method is different from simply assigning projects during the semester because the project is the semester, not simply an assignment meant to break up classwork.
If you would like to learn more about Lakeside Christian School, one of the best private elementary schools in Clearwater, FL, please give us a call at (727) 239-7808 or schedule a tour of our campus.
The time your child spends in elementary school, especially in grades K-2, is crucial for their growth. It’s during this time that children develop many of the habits that lead to either success or frustration in middle and high school. In this article, we explore three important ways that parents and teachers can foster a child’s development. These are just some considerations to keep in mind when searching for an affordable private elementary school in Clearwater, FL.
Your child is doing some serious growing in these early years, both mentally and physically. It’s your duty as a parent to make sure that your child is ready to face the challenges and lessons of school. Be sure that your child is going to bed early and getting plenty of sleep. Generally, your little one should be getting 10-12 hours of sleep each night. Have a nutritious breakfast and packed lunch ready for them in the morning to ensure they have enough energy to focus on their school work throughout the day.
By becoming a strong reader, your child can discover a healthy hobby and ignite a passion for learning that can last the rest of their life. It is perhaps the most important skill that your child can acquire, as evidenced by a study published by the Annie E. Casey Foundation. “The ability to read by third grade is critical to a child’s success in school, life-long earning potential and their ability to contribute to the nation’s economy and its security.” At Lakeside Christian School, one of the best private elementary schools in Clearwater, FL, in addition to providing regular literature lessons, we help our students develop their reading ability and habits by giving extra credit to students who turn in a summer reading log.
Although a student’s surroundings, family, and upbringing all play critical roles in their development, teachers remain “the most important factor contributing to student achievement.” Elementary school teachers are among the first role models our children emulate. It’s from them that students learn some of their first and most important lessons in life, which is why all of our professional education staff members meet or exceed the qualifications required by our accreditation agencies. Our team of effective educators strives to give each student the attention and guidance they need — a goal they accomplish with data-driven instruction and small class sizes. If you are interested in how our teachers deliver on our mission to provide every child with a high-quality education, schedule a tour and see why Lakeside Christian School is one of the best private elementary schools in Clearwater, FL.
If you would like to learn more about Lakeside Christian School, an affordable private elementary school in Clearwater, FL, please give us a call at (727) 239-7808 or schedule a tour of our campus.
Every child stands to benefit from a private Christian education, and none should be denied the opportunity. Only through a private education can parents guarantee that their children are prepared for the challenges they will soon face in life and instilled with the teachings of the Holy Scriptures. Such an education is not impossible to come by. An affordable private elementary school in Clearwater, FL, like Lakeside Christian School, can provide your child with the education they both need and deserve.
It’s no secret that a college education is a minimum requirement in many career fields. Despite this obvious fact, public school systems are failing to prepare their students for college, often waiting until the final years of high school before even attempting to teach foundational skills. College readiness must begin in elementary school, which is why our private Christian school prepares students for college all throughout the K-12 grades. It is never too early to build a solid foundation for your child, one where they are provided with the tools they need to prosper in life.
It’s all too easy for a child to be left behind in the crowds of students that pack public schools to the brim. When a child is denied the attention they need to develop and grow, they’ll be less likely to speak up in class, less likely to develop a distinct personality, and more likely to second-guess themselves. This is unacceptable. At a private Christian school, your child can benefit from smaller class sizes that spotlight their talents and elevate them to their full potential.
All children require steadfast guidance, which is why biblical instruction and weekly chapel services are built into our curriculum. As an affordable private elementary school in Clearwater, FL, our goal is to build leaders. This can only be accomplished by combining Christian values with improved academic values. Upon graduation, our students are self-directed leaders, capable of effective communication and critical and creative thinking. These are no longer lost students but spirit-led adults that are more than capable of succeeding in life, their future education, and their career.
At Lakeside Christian School, we believe that every child is entitled to the many benefits of a private education. If you are considering enrolling your child in a private school, we encourage you to schedule a new parent tour and see for yourself why we’re one of the best private schools in Clearwater, FL.
If you would like to learn more about Lakeside Christian School, one of the best private schools in Clearwater, FL, please give us a call at (727) 239-7808 or schedule a tour of our campus.
Lakeside Christian School is a premier Christian elementary school in Clearwater, FL, that provides students with the opportunity to learn and grow under the guidance of caring teachers and dedicated faculty who challenge students to “achieve their academic, social and career-minded goals.” At Lakeside Christian, every class is taught from a Christian worldview to help students understand the value of loving God and loving others.
Parents and students alike can’t help but profess their love for Lakeside Christian. In fact, a quick Google search of “Lakeside Christian School” proves it. Lakeside Christian holds a 4.8/5 rating on Facebook as well as a 5/5 rating on Private School Review and GreatSchools.org. So, what’s the secret to their success? In this brief article, we’ll outline a couple reasons why Lakeside Christian is the best Clearwater, FL, Christian school.
Since 1975, Lakeside Christian has infused their educational program with God’s Word to cultivate a learning environment that strengthens students both academically and spiritually. Early on, students are prepared for college to ensure that they have all the tools they need to succeed by the time they graduate. Teachers are dedicated to student success, putting their all into the mastery of their subject to help students reach the next level of their academic development. However, this passion for academic excellence never overshadows Lakeside Christian’s mission to tie in Biblical teachings that inspire a wholesome, worldly knowledge and everlasting curiosity.
Another reason why parents and students love Lakeside Christian is because they offer Step Up For Students Scholarships, like the Florida Tax Credit (FTC) Scholarship, for families that may not be able to afford to enroll their child in a private school. Since 2001, more than 784,000 scholarships have been provided to families in need of financial assistance. Private education doesn’t have to be unattainable, by applying for the FTC Scholarship, you can give your child the education they need to succeed.
The hard work of teachers and faculty have allowed Lakeside Christian to build a veritable microcosm of respect and equality. On school grounds, every student is treated with respect by their classmates and teachers, which allows them to grow uninhibited by negativity or contempt. Many former students have returned to Lakeside Christian as teachers and faculty to help preserve this important tradition, and it’s truly one of the important differentiators that has helped the school earn its reputation as the premier Christian elementary school in Clearwater, FL, while maintaining a 90 percent or greater retention rate.
If you would like to learn more about Lakeside Christian School, a top Clearwater, FL, Christian school, please give us a call at (727) 239-7808 or schedule a tour of our campus.
When your children have officially reached the age to begin school, you will be forced to decide the best course for them moving forward. Certainly, you want the best possible education for your child, but you also want them to develop socially, emotionally, and physically, too.
Choosing between public and private school can be a difficult decision, but evidence suggests that many children will receive a superior education in a private school setting, especially in the elementary age bracket. In fact, many public school teachers enroll their children at private schools. If you are deciding between public and private elementary schools in Clearwater, FL, consider these seven advantages of enrolling your children in a Clearwater private school.
Private schools typically have much smaller class sizes. This provides your children with more one-on-one time with their teacher(s), which allows these educators to identify every child’s strengths and weaknesses more accurately. They can then use this information to tailor their teaching methods to every child’s specific needs.
Art programs in public schools have been under attack by lawmakers for years. By comparison, private schools are allowed to institute art-related classes at will. Whether it’s acting in a play, performing in a musical, painting a picture for an art exhibit, or participating in a talent show, the arts are alive and well in private schools.
The comparatively larger technology budgets at private schools give students a significant advantage over their peers in public schools. In many private schools, students have access to laptops or tablets for personal use. Plus, private schools can invest in superior internet service and afford to employ technology experts to ensure that all devices receive proper maintenance throughout the year.
At many private schools, the tuition includes access to healthy foods. Public schools are notorious for providing students with lackluster foods with insufficient nutritional value. Conversely, private schools often account for vegan diets, food allergies, and other dietary sensitivities. Plus, private schools typically offer an abundance of fresh fruit and vegetables to keep students healthy.
Private schools are especially notable for providing parents and their children with diverse options tailored to their specific learning and situational needs.
If you would like to learn more about Lakeside Christian School, a Clearwater private school, please give us a call at 727-261-0937 or schedule a tour of our campus.
As a parent, nothing is more important to you than your child’s well being, and a large part of that includes their education. Both in their day-to-day lives and in regard to their future, your child’s school is one of the most important decisions you make for him or her. If you are looking for an affordable private elementary school in Clearwater, FL, we invite you to learn more about LCS and our participation in the Step Up For Students scholarship funding program.
You are deeply invested in your child’s happiness and development. However, most American families cannot afford the financial investment associated with private school education. This is why we are proud to be a Step Up participating school!
Step Up is a nonprofit organization that provides scholarships to children. There are four different scholarships for which your child may qualify:
We believe partnering with the Step Up program is one of the most important things we do. Any child who would thrive in a small private school environment should be able to attend, regardless of whether they are in the small percentage of families who can afford private school in addition to all the other expenses that come with raising a child.
In order for a child to have a successful future, they must be prepared for college. According to a study by Georgetown University Center on Education and the Workforce, bachelor’s degree holders earn 31 percent more than Associate’s degree holders, and 84 percent more than those with just a high school diploma.
Though career happiness is determined by far more than just one’s income, it is important to give your child the chance at getting into (and graduating from) a great college. This is one of the many reasons LCS can make such a powerful impact on your child’s life. Our personalized academics include small class sizes, the finest educational technology, and brand new textbooks. We are proud to say our amazing students have achieved a 100% graduation rate!
At Lakeside Christian School, we instill the principles of friendship, fellowship, hard work, kindness, and service. Our most heartfelt goal is that we prepare each student for his or her dream career and a stable, fulfilling future.
We are proud of our learning community and we don’t just want to tell you more; we want to show you more!
LCS offers 1-on-1 tours during school hours, so you can take a genuine, in-action peek at our school. To schedule a visit or ask us any questions, please give us a call at (727) 239-7808 or fill out this form.