Willoughby Lake Academy Reflects on Past 15 Years

In the fall of 1997, the Governing Board of the Lake County Educational Service Center developed an innovative new program in an attempt to satisfy the growing need for alternative schooling within our county.

At 10:30 a.m. on Friday, Dec. 14, The Lake Academy’s former students will give testimony of their successes. Edward Cary, Holly Frankos, Bill Snyder and Joseph Frato will speak to The Lake Academy students in the Student Center at 25 Public Square, Willoughby, Ohio. At 11:30 a.m. everyone will enjoy a luncheon together with community members and support staff from the school districts.

“Through extensive study and planning The Lake Academy was created as a dynamic alternative for individual students,” said William Kermavner in a statement.

The Lake Academy provides services for “at risk” students. The school’s mission is “to provide students with positive social and academic life skills.” The mission is accomplished through: on-site work experience, goal setting, small classroom setting, career exploration, individualized instruction and project-based learning activities.

In the past 14 years, 684 other students have returned to their home schools and are “on track” in pursuing their studies.

“At the heart of The Lake Academy’s philosophy is a strong and continually evolving cooperative effort between schools and the local social service agencies,” stated Mr. Kermavner.

Successful transition from the traditional school setting to the world of work and community living is difficult for all students, but especially difficult –if not, at times, impossible – for the population of students who cannot complete a traditional education, according to the school.

The Lake Academy currently has 50 students from nine districts within Lake County, and from Chardon, in Geauga County.

Submitted by The Lake Academy, edited by Stefanie Valentic, Editor