Editor’s note: The Canton Repository asked school officials in every Stark County public school district to share some highlights of what they have planned for the 2025-26 school year.
LAKE TWP. – Lake Local Schools is making significant repairs to the visiting side bleachers at Blue Streak Stadium. The work has improved safety, accessibility and structural stability ahead of the upcoming athletic season, officials said.
The project included the installation of a new support structure, which was anchored to both existing and newly poured concrete footers to ensure long-term durability.
In addition to structural upgrades, new steps and handrails were added to bring the bleachers into compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act standards.
This project is funded from the district’s Partnership Permanent Improvement Fund, which is money collected from the district’s lease agreements with the Stark Library and Mercy Hospital Health Center.
The project’s total cost is $434,200.
Work is expected to be completed by the start of the football season.
Kindergarten first day
It’s a big day for the district’s littlest learners — the first day of school.
Kindergarteners are invited to a meet and greet with their teachers from 4:30 to 6 p.m. Aug. 22.
The first day of class for kindergartners with the last names starting with A to L is Aug. 25. The remainder of kindergartners with last names starting M to Z is Aug. 26.
All students attend Aug. 27.
What’s new at Lake Elementary School?
Students at the elementary school can take advantage of several clubs and programs such as photography, pottery, robotics, safety patrol, book club, chess, math and student council.
This year, a new program is being introduced. The Student Success Squad, a group of sixth graders who serve as mentors and tutors for second and third grade students.
Advised by sixth grade counselor Jess McLouth, the students work directly with teachers to support the positive culture at the elementary school and make meaningful academic and social connections across grade levels, principal Joey Brightbill said.
The activities help get students involved and continue to help them grow, he added.
“Getting kids involved in these activities at an earlier age is so important as it helps students build connections with peers and staff, discover new interests, and develop a strong sense of belonging within the school,” Brightbill said. “These programs really help extend learning beyond the classroom, giving students positive, hands-on experiences that can build confidence and, in some cases, even spark interests that may lead to future careers.”
The elementary school has eight new staff members. Daytime custodian Clint Zorger is stepping in as the head custodian after the retirement of Greg Scott.
What’s new at the middle school and high school?
A STEAM 3 class will be offered as a culmination to the STEAM curriculum. The class will include a capstone project in collaboration with area businesses and people.
The middle school/high school welcomes nine new staff members.
This article originally appeared on The Repository: Lake Local’s Blue Streak Stadium visitor seating gets safety, accessibility upgrades
Reporting by Amy L. Knapp, Massillon Independent / The Repository
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