Frequently Asked Questions

We want to make sure that throughout the process of exploring the possibilities of becoming a conversion charter school that all information is publicly displayed as well as dismiss any rumors that may arise.  Please feel free to place comments or questions on this page.  We will do our best in replying to all comments and questions both personally and publicly.

You can either place your comments and questions at the bottom of this page or click here for the Contact Us page and fill our a form to send to us.

Question:
Who will be able to attend Lakeland Senior High school if it becomes a charter school?

All students zoned for Lakeland High School automaticaly attend LHS unless and until the student/parent selects another district school.   Students outside the LHS school zone will be accepted as space permits.

 

Question:
In the planning stages, are all students in Lakeland’s zone going to be given equal opportunity to attend?

All students zoned for Lakeland High School automaticaly attend LHS unless and until the student/parent selects another district school.   Students outside the LHS school zone will be accepted as space permits.

Question: 
Is the charter movement at Lakeland High School a veiled attempt to be elitist or exclusive?

No.  All students—regardless of race, culture, ability, or background—will be given equal opportunity to participate in the offerings of this charter.  A wide variety of “academies” will allow every student to participate in the LHS charter experience.

Question: 
If Harrison becomes part of the LHS charter system, will their departments or programs cease to exist?

The charter will incorporate a unique arts program.  Maintaining the  integrity of the Harrison program, including criteria for participation and availability to all Polk County students, is priority.

Question:
Will students be required to wear uniforms?

A charter has the prerogative of requiring uniforms, but little discussion has occurred, and no decision has been made.

Question: 
Will the length of the school day change?

A charter has the right and ability to set start and end times, period length, and frequency of class meeting.  To meet the needs of our diverse population, all options are being explored; no decisions have been finalized..

Question:
What are the major reasons for any charter school to separate from the county system?

Self-determination and self-governance are two major reasons.  It is believed that a charter board would more efficiently and effectively educate the students in its zone because it knows the unique needs of its community.

Question: 
When will parents be allowed to vote on the charter?

Parents are welcome to have input at any time.  In an effort to be transparent with our process at Lakeland High School, information about the committees’ work will be posted at this site.  Teachers will vote on or around May 1 after the charter draft is written.  If 50% or more of the faculty vote in favor, parents will be asked to vote—either by mail or by coming to the school.  A 50% vote of teachers will also be needed for the charter application to proceed.

Question: 
Will Harrison faculty vote on Lakeland’s charter, and will Lakeland faculty vote on Harrison’s charter?

 Charter law states that any faculty member that will be affected by the proposed charter has a voice.

Question: 
What is the deadline for submitting the charter school application to the county?

 August 1, 2012

Question: 
When would Lakeland High School open as a charter school?

 August, 2013

Question: 
If the county does not approve the charter after August 1, can that decision be appealed?

 Yes.  State charter law allows appeal to the state Department of Education.