Lakewood High School celebrated its 60th anniversary with students of yesteryear, current scholars, and incoming freshmen at its Diamond Celebration on Friday, Aug. 1.
BY GOLIATH J. DAVIS, III, Ph.D. | Contributor
ST. PETERSBURG — Principal Connisheia Garcia and her team are living examples of what leadership, commitment, intentionality and caring can do to transform a troubled school and inspire scholars to excel. On Friday, Aug. 1, I had the opportunity to participate in Lakewood’s 60th anniversary celebration held in concert with the school’s freshman orientation, senior orientation and the return of Lakewood alums for the school’s Diamond Anniversary.
Once again, I was overwhelmed by the organization, scholarly behavior, presentations and teamwork. Scholars, even the newly arriving ninth graders, were extremely courteous, polite and engaged. Perhaps the fact that Mrs. Garcia meets with all incoming ninth graders before their arrival to orient them to what she calls the “Lakewood vibe” accounts in part for the apparent comfort and sense of belonging they demonstrated as they ate lunch, toured the campus, participated in games and visited the exhibits.
Incoming ninth graders are expected to work hard and contribute to the predicted 2025-26 ‘A’ school grade.
The Lakewood Team proudly claims the title, “The Best High School in the South.” A review of their data clearly points to why the claim is made, embraced and justified. For those who monitor and believe in school grades, Hollywood High is to be celebrated. Through the hard work of the scholars, Mrs. Garcia’s leadership, the cohesion and commitment of the leadership team, and the work of dedicated teachers, coaches, hall monitors and the entire staff, Hollywood High earned a “B” grade, improving on its “C” grades in 2023-24.
When compared to other schools in the district, Lakewood distinguished itself by achieving the largest district-wide test score increases in ninth-grade ELA (English Language Arts), Biology, Geometry and Algebra I. Lakewood’s Algebra I test score led the entire district. Math scores for ESE (Exceptional Student Education) students increased from 21 percent to 49 percent, and the achievement gap between Lakewood’s Black and white scholars decreased from 30 percent to 60 percent. Ninety-one percent of Lakewood’s students have a GPA of 2.0 or higher.
During the ninth-grade orientation, incoming students and parents alike received data on Lakewood’s academic journey. And, in grand Garcia fashion, incoming ninth graders volunteered to participate in a game where questions were posed regarding Lakewood’s accomplishments, and prizes were awarded to scholars with the correct answers. This and other methods internalize the school’s state test history and achievements.
‘It’s Always A Vibe At Lakewood High’
The Garcia touch is enhanced by her unique ability to market Lakewood and serve as its number one cheerleader. Lakewood’s vibe is built on clearly stated expectations, love, cheerleading and celebration. When scholars perform appropriately, their accomplishments are recognized, rewarded and celebrated. More importantly, Lakewood scholars were asked for and provided valued input on positive reinforcement incentives and rewards.
Principal Garcia’s marketing genius is also reflected in a book she and her team wrote and unveiled at last year’s graduation. The book is entitled “The Quest for Legacy,” and chronicles the main character’s journey in search of Legacy. Sparty’s journey is filled with obstacles, learning opportunities, guidance, celebrations and ultimate success. At the completion of his journey, Sparty is equipped with new tools, skills, and wisdom to face the world and its many challenges successfully.
Cathy Clayton (left) and Eileen Healy reminisced about Lakewood High in the 1970s.
The book provides Lakewood students with a clear vision, a sense of the “Lakewood Way,” and a belief system that posits much can be accomplished through hard work and commitment. Principal Garcia and her team continue to develop the mantra she unveiled at her first school graduation ceremony: “Standing on business.” The Garcia Touch continues to illustrate the importance of leadership and a belief that scholars can and will achieve if those involved in the teaching and learning enterprise believe they can and create an environment to facilitate that belief.
Garcia and her team set a goal for the upcoming year. They proudly proclaimed they would be an “A” school and shared their vision with the incoming ninth graders, seniors, parents, and returning alumni during the Diamond Celebration. We in attendance believe they will succeed. Principal Garcia readily admits she can sometimes be “over the top,” but she insists it is all about doing the best for her “babies.”
I encourage Principal Garcia and her team to continue to “stand on business.” The Garcia Touch is working.
Dr. Goliath Davis is a former St. Petersburg police chief and deputy mayor who advocates for education in Pinellas County, focusing on Black student achievement.
Congratulations to Lakewood High School for their accomplishments. I do agree that leadership, accountability and relationships are the key to success in any school. When all stakeholders accept and accomplish individual involvement it does seem to be a part of success. I do like the idea of sharing test data. It allows an opportunity for all to share in the responsibility. Knowledge is power in the hands of those who understand what has to be done. It also helps others understand that teaching is just one part of the and learning experience. I am not a fan of the state grading system. But if it leads to a better understanding and implementation at the district level I think we should take what we can use for success and move forward. Every school is so different each one needs a plan to implement. I think Lakewood is on the right path for continued growth. Best wishes to Lakewood and all of the schools in Pinellas County.