Lake Hills School

A new state law -- House Bill 1105, which was signed into law on July 1 -- stipulates how and when students can use personal electronic devices during the school day in an effort to support focused learning in all Florida public school classrooms. The law says:
• Elementary and middle school students may not use a cell phone or other personal electronic device at any time during the school day.
• High School students may use cell phones and other personal electronic devices during instructional time only if a teacher gives permission for educational purposes.
• Exceptions can be made on a case-by-case basis for students with an IEP, specific health needs, or English language learners (ELL).
Our Code of Student Conduct has been updated to reflect this law. See the Code of Student Conduct at this link: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1RZS1-ppNFeQ_vSnOamPTlz0voX11U5Bs/view?usp=sharing . Thank you for working with us to create and maintain more focused learning environments for our students.

3 days ago, LCS Communications

In collaboration with local law enforcement, Lake County Schools will host active-assailant training exercises at two school campuses this week. These exercises are part of a continuing effort to ensure that officers and deputies are fully prepared to respond swiftly and effectively in the unlikely event of a real-life emergency. The sessions will be held on Thursday, July 31, at East Ridge Middle School and on Friday, August 1, at Umatilla High School, from 6 a.m. to 4 p.m. both days. The interactive training will include simulated gunfire and student actors to create real-life scenarios.

“We understand that these exercises can raise concerns,” Deputy Superintendent Chad Farnsworth said. “However, law enforcement officials stress the importance of training in realistic settings to be better equipped to protect our students and staff.”

The trainings were intentionally scheduled during the summer when students and teachers are not on campus. Participation is limited to student actors whose parents have provided written consent. The district notified the community in advance through social media and the district and school websites.

“We are deeply grateful for the partnership we share with local law enforcement and for their ongoing commitment to keeping our schools safe,” Farnsworth added. “While we all wish this type of training wasn’t necessary, we must prepare. We support our officers and deputies as they train to be there for us when we need them most.”

The Lake County Sheriff’s Office (LCSO) conducts active assailant training on an ongoing basis as required by state statutes and accreditation requirements to ensure the safety of all involved if such a scenario plays out at one of our schools. It’s especially vital for School Resource Deputies to undergo active assailant training in a realistic environment, as their preparedness can significantly reduce casualties and protect students and staff during such critical incidents, an LCSO spokesperson explained. Demonstrating our teamwork in safety, representatives from Lake County Schools and the Florida Department of Education will also be in attendance at the upcoming training.

10 days ago, LCS Communications

Blurred cop cars in the background with yellow tape in foregrond that reads, "Sheriff's Line Do Not Cross."

Students will receive breakfast and lunch at no charge in the 2025-26 school year. Learn more here: https://www.lake.k12.fl.us/article/2330002

10 days ago, LCS Communications

Teen girls get food in cafeteria line, served by a man and a woman, both smiling and wearing green aprons.

Are you ready for some football? Join Lake County Schools employees, students, friends, and families in Gainesville as the Florida Gators take on the Long Island Sharks on Saturday, August 30. A portion of every ticket sold will be donated back to the Education Foundation of Lake County to support Lake County Schools! Get your tickets at https://www.gofevo.com/event/Lakecounty60

12 days ago, LCS Communications

Flyer says Join Gators Football, Saturday, Aug 30, 7 p.m. Florida Gatos vs LIU Sharks. Final purchase date is Aug. 29. A portion of every ticket sold will be donated back to the Education Foundation of Lake County. Secure your tickets by scanning the QR code below or going to https://www.gofevo.com/event/Lakecounty60.

We are about a month away from the first day of school. Plan ahead and get your back-to-school and sports physicals completed free of charge in Eustis on Saturday, July 19. Register in advance and get more information at this link: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfpmLjUw5yXaDD1oYyQX6gZ8xGTRqyn8N1L1A5Wm8GXCbYcbg/viewform

about 1 month ago, LCS Communications

Images of students getting physicals from adults wearing purple T-shirts. Wording says: Let's Get Physical. Free Back to School and Sports physicals for all students through 12th grade. Pre-register online to help us know you're coming. Open until the end of July 17, 2025. Scan QE Code or visit www.fpceustis.com. When: Saturday, July 19, 2025, 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. Where: First Presbyterian Church, 117 S. Center Street, Eustis FL 32726.

REMINDER: Schools are closed tomorrow for Memorial Day. Then, students will follow the Wednesday early release schedule for Tuesday, May 27, Wednesday, May 28, and Thursday, May 29, which is the last day of classes!