Lakes High School

Attending Lakes High School as a Freshman, I can definitely say it is one of the best schools in WA. From academics to sports, Lakes continues to astound me as well as the community. Lancer pride all the way.
--Submitted by a student

Lakes High School is an amazing and vibrant place. However, you get what you give. If you try, you will succeed, no matter what. There is tons of after school help and the majority of teachers are willing to go the extra mile for you, but only as long as YOU take THEIR time seriously! Communication is constant, teachers attend their students' games, and treat us like adults (not just when it serves us; always). Don't we all want to be treated like adults? Some will be your friend, some will be there just to teach you, many wish to be both. It's up to how YOU approach the situation. They give you respect until you take it for granted. If you need to be babied, attend a private school or be home schooled! The education Lakes provides is great as long as you are willing to be taught!
--Submitted by a student

Lakes High School serves a diverse student population at a very high level. The Life Skills program gives students with extreme needs hope and a place of belonging. The Advanced Placement Program continues to grow. Graduates are accepted into prestigious universities and military academies every year. The choral program is one of the best in the nation receiving numerous awards. Nearly half of the student population comes from military families which brings a vibrant cultural mix to the school community. More positive attributes about Lakes can be said but I'll leave that to the next reviewer.
--Submitted by a teacher

Folks that say that communication is poor, have their heads in the sand. I have a senior and a junior at Lakes. I receive newletters, e-mails, and recorded phone calls, with everything we've ever needed to know. Short of a knock on the door and a face to face invitation, the school does more than it's part in keeping parents informed. Let's not forget the students part when it comes to smaller events like a sports banquet. Some people would rather blame the school than hold their child accountable. As far as the relaxed rules about food and drinks, cell phones, etc., true some kids don't do well with 'distractions,' but others do very well with them and appreciate the drink of water. So they get to use their cell phone to take a picture of the assignment instead of writing it down. Sounds smart to me.
--Submitted by a parent

I am a student at Lakes and I personally love it! The experience you take away reflects directly how you choose to experience Lakes. We have an amazing choir, superb athletics, great JROTC program (full ride scholarships) and every year we add 2-3 clubs. Most teachers here truly love to work at Lakes and commute long distances just for the opportunity to teach at such a diverse school! As for the cell phones, other electronics, food and drinks- that helps many students. Cell phones are allowed in passing periods or free time that is earned as are other electronics. Some teachers even allow us to listen to our iPods and mp3s as we do our work so it is easier to concentrate. Food and drinks also help students concentrate until lunch. Communication between the school and home is also excellent. The majority of graduates leave with at least one scholarship.
--Submitted by a student

This school, the administration, and the district it is in are all very unsatisfactory. There is little to no communication between staff and parents, completely disrespectful students (the vast majority anyhow), and the teachers do not know hoe to maintain discipline and an environment of learning in their classrooms. I would not send my kids there if my life depended on it.
--Submitted by a student

i love lakes, regardless of what others say. overall, we are a great high school and empower others with our commitment to having a safe, educational enviroment(:
--Submitted by a student

Having left this nightmare of a school district three years ago, my opinion is a bit dated. While I was there, I was a highly involved parent (volunteering weekly, serving on committees), so I had ample opportunity to see the day-to-day happenings of the school and its administration. About the best thing I can say about this school is that at least it is head and shoulders above Clover Park High School. Oh, and if your child is into chorus (outstanding group) or football, they will be happy. The AP and honors options are pathetic compared to other schools we have experienced. The real problem, though, lies in the office of the Superintendant of the the Clover Park School District.
--Submitted by a parent

I am a parent with 2 children at Lakes. I find the principal and the administration, in general to be lacking. There is not much communication from admin to parents. Opportunities are presented only to those kids that have parents that are involved and/or stay on top of things. They had SAT prep classes however, it was not put out to the entire junior/senior student body. They had college fairs but juniors were not informed until the day of. The principal is was not present at during either of my kids orientation and one was a freshman. I tend to see him only at sports events. If I had to do it over (and could afford it) I would have place my kids in private school or moved off post. RUN....
--Submitted by a parent

Lakes High School, is a good school, but it requires students and parents to hold the administration accountable. If you are willing to get involved in your education Lakes High School is as good as any other school. I would say that its biggest drawback is the school district it's in. The district tends to cite the diversity and the military base as an excuse for the lack of higher standards of learning. Overall, the faculty at the high school cares about students which is the most valuable asses of Lakes High School, just remember to take responsibility for your education.
--Submitted by a student