The Lakeside Difference: A Middle School Experience That Inspires Growth and Leadership

Middle school is a transformative time in a student’s life. It’s a season of growth—academically, socially, and spiritually—that sets the foundation for success in high school and beyond. At Lakeside Christian School, we understand the importance of nurturing each student during these pivotal years. As one of the best private schools in Clearwater, FL, our middle school program offers a unique approach that inspires growth, fosters leadership, and prepares students to navigate life’s challenges with faith and confidence. Here’s what sets Lakeside Christian School apart from other private middle schools in Clearwater, FL.

1. Small Middle School Class Sizes for Personalized Learning

One of the hallmarks of the Lakeside middle school experience is our commitment to small class sizes. With fewer students per teacher, our faculty has the time and flexibility to provide individualized attention tailored to each student’s learning style and academic needs.

This personalized approach allows us to:

• Identify and address areas where a student may need extra support.
• Challenge advanced learners with opportunities for enrichment.
• Foster meaningful teacher-student relationships that encourage academic and personal growth.

At Lakeside, no child gets lost in the crowd. Our small class sizes create an environment where students feel seen, valued, and empowered to reach their full potential.

2. Faith-Centered Education

As a Christ-centered school, faith is woven into every aspect of our middle school curriculum and culture. At Lakeside, students not only excel academically but also grow spiritually as they explore how Biblical principles can guide their lives.

Weekly chapel services, daily prayer, and Bible classes provide opportunities for students to deepen their relationship with God. Additionally, our faculty models Christ-like leadership, helping students learn how to apply their faith in their decision-making, relationships, and future aspirations.

For families seeking private middle schools in Clearwater, FL that prioritize both education and spiritual development, Lakeside Christian School offers a balanced and fulfilling experience.

3. A Well-Rounded Curriculum

At Lakeside Christian School, we believe that education goes beyond textbooks. Our middle school curriculum is designed to provide a well-rounded education that prepares students for high school and beyond.

Highlights of our academic program include:

• Core, Standards-Based Education: Engaging lessons in science, English Language Arts, history, and math that encourage critical thinking, biblical worldviews, and innovation.
• Fine Arts: Opportunities to explore the arts, fostering creativity and self-expression.
• Physical Education and Competitive Sports: A focus on health, teamwork, and physical fitness through sports and activities. Middle Schoolers can join Lakeside’s volleyball, football, track and field, basketball, soccer, baseball, softball, cross country, and cheerleading teams. 
  • Interested in learning more about our sports programs? Contact our Athletic Director James Coffman by phone at 727-461-331 ext 307 or email jcoffman@lakesidechristianschool.org

By balancing rigorous academics with creative and physical development, Lakeside helps students grow into well-rounded individuals who are prepared for the future.

4. Safe and Supportive Environment

The middle school years can be challenging as students navigate new responsibilities and social dynamics. At Lakeside, we prioritize creating a safe and supportive environment where students feel encouraged to grow and take risks.

Our staff is dedicated to fostering a culture of kindness and is proactive in teaching conflict resolution and fostering positive relationships. An on-site SSO Officer aids in keeping our campus safe and secure.

For parents seeking the best private school in Clearwater, FL, this sense of safety and belonging is a key reason why Lakeside Christian School stands out.

5. Preparing for High School and Beyond

Middle school is a time to prepare students for the academic and social challenges of high school. At Lakeside, we focus on equipping students with the skills and mindset they need to succeed.

Our middle school program emphasizes:

• Time Management and Study Skills: Helping students develop habits that will serve them throughout their educational journey.
• College and Career Readiness: Encouraging students to think about their future goals and how they can align with God’s purpose for their lives.
• Christian Worldview: Preparing students to navigate the complexities of the modern world while staying rooted in the Bible.

With a strong foundation from Lakeside, our middle school graduates are well-prepared to excel in high school and beyond.

6. The Lakeside Community

One of the most unique aspects of Lakeside Christian School is our close-knit community. When you join Lakeside, you’re not just enrolling your child in a school—you’re becoming part of a family.

Our parents, students, and faculty work together to create a supportive environment where everyone feels valued and connected, and where families build lasting relationships that enrich their Lakeside experience.

This sense of community is just one of the many reasons families choose Lakeside as the best private school in Clearwater, FL.

7. Affordable Tuition

Affording private school tuition can feel daunting for many families, but programs like Step Up for Students make an excellent private middle school education more accessible. Lakeside Christian School proudly accepts Step Up for Students Scholarships, helping families invest in their child’s future without financial strain.

What is Step Up for Students?

Step Up for Students is a Florida-based scholarship program that provides financial assistance to eligible families, making private school tuition more attainable. With private school scholarship options, including income-based awards, Step Up for Students empowers parents to choose the best educational environment for their children.

How Step Up for Students Supports Middle School Success

For families considering Lakeside, the Step Up for Students program can significantly offset tuition costs, ensuring that more children can benefit from our small class sizes, personalized learning, and faith-based leadership development. This program is a game-changer for families seeking the best educational opportunities without compromising their financial stability. By partnering with programs like Step Up for Students, we’re able to provide an exceptional education to families who might not otherwise have access to private schooling.

Why Choose Lakeside Christian School?

When it comes to finding the right middle school for your child, the options can feel overwhelming. But for families in Clearwater, Lakeside Christian School stands out as a beacon of excellence.

Here’s why families trust us to guide their children through the middle school years:

• A commitment to faith-centered education that nurtures both the heart and mind.
• A focus on leadership development and character-building.
• A safe and supportive environment where students thrive academically and personally.
• A strong sense of community that feels like family.

At Lakeside, we don’t just prepare students for high school—we prepare them for a life of purpose, service, and faith.

Take the Next Step: Schedule a Tour Today

Choosing the right school is one of the most important decisions you’ll make for your child. We invite you to visit Lakeside Christian School to see firsthand what makes our middle school program unique.

During your tour, you’ll have the opportunity to:

• Meet our dedicated faculty and staff.
• Explore our campus and facilities.
• Learn more about our curriculum and extracurricular programs.
• Ask any questions about enrollment and tuition.

Discover why so many families consider Lakeside the best private school in Clearwater, FL.

Contact Us

Ready to learn more about Lakeside Christian School? Contact us today 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 middle school in Clearwater, FL, contact us now.

Step Up For Students: Your Ticket to Private School Education

For most, the mental image of private Christian education might include wealthy patron, people who drive expensive cars, and students with trust funds. While that may be the case for some (and there’s nothing wrong with that), most of our students and their parents don’t live that way.

Don’t assume an excellent private education is out of your reach simply because you’re not wealthy. There are many scholarship opportunities, and one very important one is Florida’s Step Up for Students scholarships.

According to their website, “Step Up for Students is a state-approved nonprofit scholarship funding organization that helps administer two scholarships for Florida school children: the Florida Tax Credit Scholarship Program (FTC) for low-income families and the Gardiner Scholarship (PLSA) for children with certain special needs.”

Step Up for Students was dreamed up by founder John Kirtley, who began the Children’s Scholarship Fund of Tampa Bay. After legislation supported the ability of parents to use these scholarships to place their children in better schools, we have what we now know as Step Up for Students.

It’s an incredible organization that gives to those who need it most. Step-Up For Students writes, “A state-commissioned researcher has determined that scholarship students “tend to be among the lowest-performing students in their prior school, regardless of the performance level of their public school.” Lakeside Christian School welcomes students such as these, and uses evidence-based best practices to accelerate learning and brighten their futures. Within months, many of our new Step Up students are performing above grade-level in a rigorous academic program. More and more parents are using the Step Up for Students scholarship and taking charge of their children’s education and their future.

These scholarships can change your child’s life and Lakeside Christian offers a safe learning environment and a quality education to all regardless of income or status. Read more about the Step Up for Students scholarships and its partnership with Lakeside Christian School here. Consider giving your child a fair shot at an excellent education and college preparation. Now is the time to apply as new funds typically run quickly. Step Up For Students works on a first-come, first-served basis, so apply today, and then call Lakeside Christian School! We’re looking forward to your call.