Lakeside School District in Hot Springs, Arkansas, has decided to extend its summer break by a week and will now start classes on August 21. While other public school districts in Garland County are commencing their academic year on Monday, Lakeside students will have an additional week to prepare.
The district had set its annual calendar two years ago after the 2021 passage of Act 688, which stated that schools could not begin earlier than the Monday two weeks before Labor Day. Lakeside School Superintendent Bruce Orr stated that the schedule was established early in response to the community’s request for planning purposes.
Orr explained, When [the law] had that as the law, we had set a calendar plus the next year’s calendar because our community had asked us to really try to get the calendar out as early as we could for planning purposes. Due to the possibility of people having already made travel arrangements for the week before the previous calendar change, the district decided to maintain the previously established schedule.
However, the district has noted the feedback received from parents and the community regarding the calendar and will continue to consider it when setting next year’s schedule. Orr mentioned that students will be involved in the process as well, saying, We’ve got some students that are going to be on the committee, so we will look at the new law changes for options moving forward into the ’24-’25 school year.
This academic year marks Orr’s first as superintendent after Shawn Cook’s retirement. Orr expressed his enthusiasm for the upcoming year, stating, I’m not just saying this, I feel like I’m back to my first year… I have that kind of energy and excitement right now. Having spent 19 years at Lakeside, Orr considers being the superintendent a great honor that he takes seriously.
In terms of physical improvements on campus, several enhancements have been made, including new signage, improved communication devices, a new sound system at Chick Austin Stadium, and new flooring in some buildings. The district has prioritized safety, adding an additional resource officer and expanding the intercom system to ensure effective communication on campus.
The Lakeside School District aims to provide a safe and welcoming environment for its students, staff, and community. With the theme of Better Together, they are committed to fostering a collaborative and supportive atmosphere.
As the district prepares for the new academic year, the school administration is focused on ensuring that students receive quality education while prioritizing their well-being and safety. With the input of various stakeholders, Lakeside aims to continuously improve and enhance the educational experience for all its students.
