Ocean Lakes High School

For me, Ocean Lakes was perfect. I feel like it's amazing in every way possible. The school is incredibly diverse; and I feel like that was an huge plus in enriching the school's atmosphere. There is something for everyone. The Math and Science Academy, our theatre team, and our sports are all really great. Literally..Ocean Lakes is perfect in every way. Academically, we have some of the best scores. And Athletically, we have the best games and scores. And another plus, the teachers are fantastic. Most of them (or atleast the teachers I had), actually knew their stuff, and were willing to help you out any time you needed it. The best part, I feel, is that there are not that many "cliques", not really any of those 'rich, snobby' people. Everybody fits in. And we have plenty of clubs and activities, to make new friends and meet new people. I would definitely recommend Ocean Lakes...it's perfect, and I made many happy memories there.
—Submitted by a student

We moved to the area 4+ years ago, before my daughter was in High School, but chose our area to live based on reviewing the HS's. We chose right! My daughter strongly disliked MIddle School, but is now a sophomore at OLHS and doesn't want to leave. There is something for everyone, interests and scholastic-wise. She started out at the math and science academy, which is wonderful, but we decided, with other commitments, the homework level and stress were not for her, so this year she is doing mainstream classes, and still loves the school. The band program is great, with lots of parental involvement. It's a great learning environment, and I've been around the school a lot (drop-offs in morning, football games, parent nights, volunteering, etc) and have never seen any person or behavior that would be cause for concern.
—Submitted by a parent

I went to to OL from grades 9-12 and it is one of the most supportive communities I have ever witnessed. I recommend the Math and Science Academy, along with the school. Every teacher left a positive impact on me and has helped me grow in some form.
—Submitted by a student

My daughter is a freshman at OLHS in the Math and Science Academy. Having attended several events at the school (orientations, sports events, etc) I am very impressed with how organized the faculty is and how smoothly the school functions. The atmosphere is very professional. My daughter loves all the opportunities for extracurricular involvement as well. She has great things to say about her teachers. Everything about the school is first rate.
—Submitted by a parent

Our son is a sophmore in the Math and Science Academy and we, as well as our son, couldn't be happier with this school. Not only are we pleased with the Academy's course offerings, teachers, and leadership, but we are very impressed with the overall school. The staff, facilities, extracurricular offerings, and overall atmosphere of the school are excellent. We feel that OL does an excellent job at integrating the Academy students with the school and truly offers a positive and cohesive educational experience for all of it's Dolphins!
—Submitted by a parent

I am so blessed to go to this school! Unbelievable students and faculty! We are an awesome school!
—Submitted by a student

My son has only just started at OLHS and so far I have been absolutely impressed with the school, the teachers, the opportunites and the students. At the end of the day when the bell rang, I have never seen so much structure and calm in school hallways. All the teachers are out and interacting with the students. You can truly witness the care and respect from teacher to student and vice versa. This is the first school my son has ever stated he likes and he is very happy with all of his teachers. This was a true leap for him given that he has been abused by teachers in the past. I hope that this happy streak continues and at this point, look forward to continuing a fair working relationship with OLHS in regards to my son's education.
—Submitted by a parent

Ocean Lakes H.S. is the best H.S. in Virginia Beach, not only because of the wonderful teachers, but the extra activities they offer to help students prepare for their future. We are lucky to have such great teachers who you can really tell they want the students to be successful. I love that my daughter has been a student there for the past 3 years. She is a Junior
—Submitted by a parent

I am still not impressed. I am glad this is the last year I have to put up with teachers and administrators that have no backbone and will not adhere to the standards the school district has set.
—Submitted by a parent

My daughter attended the Math/Science academy at OL and is now at UVA. We moved so that my son could attend Ocean Lakes as it is the best school in Virginia Beach. The teachers are the best in the district and it is 'cool to be smart' at this school.
—Submitted by a parent

I enjoyed my time at OLHS. Most of the teacher were helpful and supportive. I feel like I received a good education there.
—Submitted by a student

Very diverse school. Great teachers, parents and students! I will not move out of this school district until both of my children have graduated from OLHS!
—Submitted by a parent

Former Student at OLHS. Received a full Scholarship to both ODU and Virginia Tech. I went to ODU were I am now obtaining a double degree in Electrical Engineering and Computer Engineering. IT was Ocean Lakes that made all this possible for me.
—Submitted by a student

Ms Morgenthau is an excellent leader and gifted teacher who is dedicated to individual students.
—Submitted by a parent

This school is awesome! i think the history department is the best, my teachers know what their talking about without having to look at powerpoints and note papers.
—Submitted by a student

I love OLHS!!! I am a current student there. The teachers are so involved and encouraging. There is always help if you need it. All of the students are so friendly and it was so easy making friends. There are so many clubs to get into. If you can't find a club you are interested in, you can always start a new club of your own interest. All of the sports to choose from have great coaches. There is even a PTSA (Parent Teacher Student Association).At Ocean Lakes High School, you will never have nothing to do. You will have the time of your life. I enjoy it so much!
—Submitted by a student

I am a member of the first graduating class of OLHS. The experience and education that I received from OL is next to none. The teachers were very caring and went the extra mile to help you out if you needed any. I also went to First Colonial High School in VB and as great of a school as FC was, it has nothing on OLHS. I'm proud to be a Dolphin.
—Submitted by Mark J, a former student

I am a graduate of Ocean Lakes High School and would like to say that Ocean Lakes has honestly changed my life in ways that I'm not sure many other schools in this nation could. It is not just one experience or moment, but a general atmosphere that is warm, friendly, encouraging, supportive, energetic, structured, well-planned, purposeful, but yet challenging that makes this such a great school. Also, there are an infinite number of ways to become involved in extra-curricular activities. 99% of the teachers genuinely want every single student to reach their maximum potential. The 'Math and Science Academy' (formerly known as the magnet school) is great, but does not run the school and the students are truly regular dolphins like any other students. If you are thinking about moving to Va Beach, you must visit the school and consider living in its district. You will be amazed.
—Submitted by Andy, a teacher

ocean lakes is a great school. it showed me how to think for myself in a group of many. it taught me how to comprimise two different ideas to make one. the young adults in ocean lakes are so helpful during school hours and after. i stayed after just to help with the fish tank or help the securityguards and keep them company. if someone is having a rough day, you can stay after just to make them smile whether its a teacher or student. ocean lakes has gave me so much to grow on and so very much to look forward to. i would be devastated if i couldn't graduate from ocean lakes.... where the teachers care and the principal isn't afraid to be your friend and the students work hard with you instead of laughing at you!
—Submitted by anitra (freshman) spence, a student

My daughter has just finished her Freshman year at OLHS and as a parent, I could not be happier. She has had an excellent academic, athletic and social experience. She is driven to excel by everyone she interacts with during her schools day including her peers, her teachers and her coaches. She wanted to attend the Math and Science Academy for challenge but wanted a public school for diversity. She has definately gotten both and all of this exists in a discipline and character focused environment.
—Submitted by Kathy, a parent