After years of dreaming and discussing, Lakeland Prep held its first official parent meeting for future high school students. The meeting, which was held in the cafeteria of the Lakeland Prep campus, was attended by approximately 160 parents, family members and staff.
Lakeland Superintendent Ted Horrell opened the meeting with “Welcome to an extremely exciting night! The first night to be talking about the 1st graduating class of Lakeland Prep 2026.” The greeting was followed by a round of applause by attendees who have been anxiously awaiting this next step for the Lakeland School System as the high school becomes a reality starting in August of 2022. Dr. Horrell also told the crowd one important rule, “Don’t panic!”, reminding them that this phase of pre-course selection is simply a means of getting comfortable with the offerings and choices. He made it clear that nothing is binding right now for course offerings as this point.
Dr. Horrell also introduced the leadership planning team who has been responsible for researching and preparing for Lakeland’s first high school. This team consists of Supt. Horrell, Assistant Supt. Angie Delloso, LPS Interim Principal Corrie Martin, LPS Assistant Principal Jeanna Decker, and LPS Counselor Misty Manthe. Ms. Martin told Lakeland Currents, “The high school leadership team was eager to share what’s ahead for the class of ‘26. It’s exciting to get to talk to our 8th graders and their families about selecting courses and making four year plans. This was another big step in seeing the dream of high school in Lakeland come to fruition.”
Ms. Martin covered the timeline, with an end date sometime in January as a data point for choosing curriculum and hiring personnel. Ms. Manthe covered the graduation requirements set by the State of Tennessee, emphasizing that preparation starts now for scholarship opportunities. Ms. Decker spoke next, with information about Ready Graduate, the accountability measures that Tennessee considers a successful milestone to be prepared for life after high school, no matter which path you choose. She stressed that all the current planning is “a work in progress to meet the needs of our students.”
According to the presentation and paperwork passed out to parents, all traditional high school classes will be offered by the new high school, including honors, AP and dual enrollment classes.
One surprise announcement, as well as a surprise speaker, was former Shelby County and Collierville Superintendent, Mr. John Aitken. It was announced that Mr. Aitken has been hired in a consulting role to help research community workforce needs and to provide additional guidance as the high school opens. Mr. Aitken was responsible for opening many of the Shelby County area schools and oversaw the development and opening of the new Collierville High School.
Dr. Horrell told Lakeland Currents how important it is to bring in people that have a wealth of experience like Mr. Aitken saying, “We’re excited to bring someone with the experience and insight into establishing and growing quality career and technical programs that John Aitken brings to the table. His partner, Joe T. Wood, is also an experienced superintendent with extensive connections in the local and state workforce development communities. This partnership contributes to our goal of making sure our students have the best options available to fit their needs and aspirations.”
For parents that could not attend, the school website will have a page dedicated to the high school with all the information provided at the meeting. Parents were encouraged to ask questions by emailing the team at highschoolquestions@lakelandk12.org.
