
9th Grade Academy Objectives:
To increase academic engagement of all 9th grade students.
To challenge capable students, remediate academically challenged students, and narrow the achievement gap between majority and minority students.
To provide a nurturing environment to improve student's grades, attendance, and to reduce disciplinary referrals.
Students will benefit from the academies through:
Smaller Learning Communities: All students will be scheduled into cohorts which they will share the same English, Math, Science, and Reading teachers. Smaller groups will allow students to get to know each other and build the student/teacher relationships.
Academic Support: LHS is committed to helping all students succeed academically. The academy teachers will meet regularly to discuss student concerns and plan cross-curricular activities and events. Academy teachers also meet with teachers in the same subject area for common planning and sharing of instructional strategies.
Deepened Connections with Counselors and Teachers: Through the comprehensive guidance model, students will develop better connections with their counselors and teachers. Subjects such as four year planning through www.facts.org and epep, career exploration, team conferences, social and emotional development and values clarification are catalyst for becoming better acquainted.
Expanded Athletic and extracurricular activities: Historically, LHS ninth graders who play a sport or participate in an extracurricular activity during the first marking period have fewer absences and get higher grades. The academy will make information available so that all students have the opportunity to participate. We also encourage students to take advantage of opportunities in the arts and other clubs
Parent Support and Help: We encourage parents to support the program and their ninth graders by:
Signing up for Parent Internet Viewer (PIV): Print form from LHS website www.lakelandhighschool.com/pivintro.htm, follow instructions Communicate regularly with ninth grade teachers via email (www.lakelandhighschool.com/staff/), telephone or scheduled conferences
Provide a regularly schedule place and time to study at home
Volunteer to become part of our Parent Organization
Overseeing Child's homework and study time
Follow through on ensuring their child reads 1 hour each evening in addition to teacher given work
Thank you for supporting Lakeland High School's Ninth Grade Academy
Principal, Mr. Mark Thomas
Assisant Principals, Mrs. Tracy Collins and Mr. Denny Dunn
Guidance Counselors, Mrs. Courtney Franzino (A-K) and Mrs. Mary Huntington (L-Z)