Why Athletics and Arts Matter in High School: More Than Just Extracurriculars

Academics and extra curricular opportunities usually top the list of parents searching for an excellent private high school for their children. Those are critical. Lakeside Christian School in Clearwater, FL, a small and safe K-12 grade private Chirstian school, realizes how central athletics and the arts are to a fully rounded high school education. Sports and fine arts aren’t add-on activities, they are integral to how we develop leadership, faith, and life-ready skills in our students.

The Benefits of Athletics and Arts Programs in High School

Character Formation on and off the Field

High school is a season when students test boundaries, learn resilience, and discover identity. Athletics and arts provide structured opportunities to grow in character. In team sports, students learn responsibility, teamwork, and perseverance: lessons that show up in the classroom and in life. When a player deals with a tough loss, they’re learning humility and grace. When a team practices and perseveres together and gains the victory, they celebrate their God-given gifts of talent and hard work.  When a student creates a masterful painting, uses 21st century skills to produce graphic designs, or takes captivating photos for the school yearbook, they’re cultivating creativity, confidence, and communication.

At Lakeside, coaches and arts instructors intentionally connect these experiences to a Christian worldview: practice and performance become places to apply biblical values like service, integrity, and humility. Coaches model servant leadership; arts teachers encourage work that honors God. This integration helps students form habits of heart, not just habits of performance.

Building Community, Belonging, and Mental Health

Belonging matters. Sports teams and art classes give students a sense of identity and a circle of peers who encourage them. That social support reduces isolation, increases school engagement, and improves mental health, especially during the high-pressure teen years.

Lakeside offers multiple entry points for students to belong. Whether a student tries out for JV basketball, joins the varsity soccer team, leads worship and games in elementary chapel, or helps design pages for the yearbook, they find supportive mentors and lasting friendships. Coaches, parents, and staff all play a role in coaching character as much as technique.

Practical Life Skills That Colleges and Employers Value

Colleges and workplaces increasingly look for the soft skills developed through athletics and arts in high school: teamwork, problem solving, time management, persistence, and creativity. Student-athletes learn to balance practice schedules, travel, and academic commitments. Yearbook students learn collaboration and project management. Visual arts students develop attention to detail and creative problem solving.

Lakeside helps students translate those experiences into real outcomes. High school students build portfolios in graphic arts, complete entrepreneurial projects in business courses, and can take dual-enrollment classes at SPC and PTEC to earn college credit or career credentials, all while staying grounded in our Christ and gospel-centered mission.

More Opportunity, Not Less: Inclusivity in a Small School

Because Lakeside is a close-knit K–12 community, students have more chances to try different activities than at a large public school where competition for roster spots can be fierce. Here, a student can play football and be part of chapel crew, or be in the art room and still compete on the track team. That flexibility helps students discover passions without being boxed in.

Our athletic philosophy prioritizes growth over pure winning. Coaches teach competition and skill, but they also mentor students to lead with godly character. The school’s commitment to values is why Lakeside has been honored in the past with recognition for sportsmanship: a reflection of how we compete and how we represent Christ in every arena.

The Arts: Voice, Creativity, and Stewardship

While athletics build teamwork and resilience, the arts cultivate voice, empathy, and cultural engagement. Creative pursuits help students process life, communicate deeply, and offer beauty to their communities. Lakeside’s arts program includes visual art, digital art, performance opportunities as a part of chapel crew, and elective coursework that aligns with college and career pathways.

Importantly, our high school arts instruction is also faith-infused: students explore how creativity reflects God’s image and can be used in worship and service. That spiritual framing makes creative work more meaningful and encourages students to think biblically and artistically about their gifts.

Outcomes That Matter: Graduation, Scholarship, and Purpose

The combination of academics, athletics, and arts contributes to strong outcomes. Students who are engaged in these programs demonstrate leadership in school and community, and apply to colleges with portfolios or experiences that stand out. Lakeside graduates leave with academic preparation plus transferable skills: leadership, collaboration, and a vocational sense of calling.

Families looking at private schools in Clearwater often tell us they want a school that prepares children “for life, not just college.” Lakeside answers that by layering rigorous academics with character development in sports and arts rooted in a Christian worldview.

Quick FAQ for Parents

Do students need to be elite to join? No. Lakeside welcomes students at multiple levels — competitive and developmental programs exist so every student can participate and grow.

How do you staff programs? Coaches and arts teachers are qualified educators and committed Christian mentors. Many are staff, parents, or experienced volunteers who invest in students’ character and skills.

How does this fit with the school’s mission? Every program is designed to help students know, love, and honor Jesus Christ — whether on the chapel stage, in the art studio, or on the athletic field.

How do I find out more about Lakeside’s Athletic Programs? Parents can learn more about our Lakeisde Christian School athletics programs here or by emailing our Athletic Director, James COffman, at jcoffman@lakesidechristianschool.org

Ready to See It in Person?

If you’re comparing Christian schools or private schools in Clearwater, Florida,  and want your teen to grow academically and spiritually, while also developing leadership and life skills through sports and arts, Lakeside Christian School invites you to schedule a tour. Our principal leads personal campus visits so parents can see our programs and culture firsthand.

Schedule your tour today by filling our our easy contact form or call Admissions at 727-461-3311. Fall 2025 enrollment AND enrollment for the upcoming 2026-2027 school year are both open. Find out how athletics and arts at Lakeside can help your child thrive.

Schoalrship Opportunities: Get Started with Step Up & Lakeside

If you’ve held back from applying before because of an income barrier, now is the time. Step Up for Students scholarships mean that many more families in Clearwater are eligible than ever before.

👉 Schedule your personal tour with our principal to see Lakeside in person, talk through scholarship options, and determine what support your child will get. Reach out via our contact form or email us today at office@lakesidechristianschool.org to start the process.

 

Enroll Today and See the Difference

We believe that a Christian education for all K-12 students is an eternal investment.

If you are seeking a private Christian school where your child will be nurtured, challenged, and prepared for life, we invite you to tour our campus to kick off your enrollment process.

Contact us to schedule a tour, learn more, or speak with our admissions team. You can reach us at 727-261-0937, email us at office@lakesidechristianschool.org, or fill out our online contact form.

Experience the Lakeside difference: where growth, leadership, and faith come together to prepare students for a bright future.

How Youth Sports Build Character: The Importance of Elementary Athletics

When parents search for the best elementary schools in Clearwater, they often look for strong academics, a nurturing environment, and opportunities for their child to grow outside the classroom. One key factor that sets private schools in Clearwater apart is their focus on character development through athletics. At Lakeside Christian School, our elementary sports program helps students build discipline, teamwork, and confidence while having fun and staying active.

Youth sports teach valuable life lessons that extend far beyond the field. Whether it’s learning how to handle victory and defeat, developing perseverance through practice, or building friendships based on trust and teamwork, elementary athletics play a crucial role in shaping young students into well-rounded individuals.

The Lasting Benefits of Youth Sports

Sports are about more than just competition—they instill character traits that help students succeed in school and life. Elementary athletics at private schools in Clearwater help children develop key life skills.

Engaging in sports at a young age offers numerous benefits, both on and off the field. Here’s how youth sports help build character:

1. Teamwork and Cooperation

Team sports require students to work together to achieve a common goal. Through practices and games, children learn how to communicate effectively, support their teammates, and understand the importance of collective effort. 

At Lakeside Christian School, students learn that success comes from supporting one another, whether passing the ball in a soccer game or strategizing for the next basketball play. These lessons in teamwork translate into the classroom and beyond.

2. Discipline and Responsibility

Athletes must attend practices, follow rules, and develop good habits to succeed. Learning to balance schoolwork with sports responsibilities teaches students time management and accountability.

In sports, as in life, success requires effort. Young athletes learn that improvement comes from consistent practice and determination. Whether refining their dribbling skills in basketball or perfecting their lacrosse throw, Lakeside students develop the discipline needed to overcome challenges.

3. Resilience and Sportsmanship

Winning and losing are both integral parts of sports. Young athletes learn how to handle victories with humility and losses with grace. They develop resilience by overcoming challenges, improving their skills, and working hard despite setbacks.

Good sportsmanship teaches students to respect their coaches, teammates, and opponents. Winning and losing gracefully are essential skills that help children build emotional maturity and integrity. At Lakeside Christian School, students are encouraged to compete with honor and respect, reinforcing positive values that last a lifetime.

4. Leadership Skills

Participation in sports nurtures leadership qualities as student athletes must encourage teammates, make strategic decisions, and lead by example.

Many young athletes step into leadership roles naturally. By making decisions during games, motivating teammates, and setting an example with their hard work, they develop confidence and leadership abilities. At Lakeside, older students, including 12th-grade volunteers, help coach and mentor younger athletes, reinforcing these qualities through positive role modeling.

5. Physical and Mental Well-Being

Regular physical activity promotes a healthy lifestyle. Engaging in regular physical activity significantly enhances both physical and mental health, leading to reduced stress levels and improved focus in the classroom.

Students who participate in sports often exhibit increased confidence and higher self-esteem. For more detailed insights into these benefits, you can refer to the National Center for Biotechnology Information’s comprehensive analysis.

Elementary Athletics at Lakeside Christian School

Lakeside Christian School believes in the power of sports to shape young minds and bodies. Our elementary athletics program is tailored to provide students in grades K-5 with a structured yet enjoyable environment where they can develop athletic skills, sportsmanship, and character.

For families seeking the best elementary schools with a well-rounded education, Lakeside Christian School offers an excellent elementary athletics program. Our goal is to provide students with a strong foundation in teamwork and physical fitness while making the experience enjoyable and rewarding.

Sports Offerings

Lakeside offers a variety of sports opportunities for elementary students, ensuring they have access to diverse athletic experiences:

• Soccer –Soccer at Lakeside allows students to build endurance, agility, and teamwork. Through drills and game play, students improve their coordination while learning the importance of discipline and perseverance.
• Flag Football –For students who enjoy fast-paced action, our flag football program introduces strategic thinking and collaboration. This non-contact version of football emphasizes teamwork, agility, and leadership.
• Basketball –Our youth basketball program teaches fundamental skills, teamwork, and strategy. Players practice dribbling, passing, and shooting while also developing communication skills and sportsmanship.
• Lacrosse – Builds hand-eye coordination and fosters teamwork.
• Baseball – Encourages discipline, patience, and sportsmanship.
• Volleyball – Strengthens communication and teamwork skills.

These sports help children explore their interests and develop athletic abilities in a supportive and encouraging environment.

How Our Program Works

• Weekly Practices: Students practice at school during the week, allowing them to develop their skills under the guidance of experienced coaches.
• Saturday Morning Games: Lakeside teams compete against other local private schools in Clearwater, fostering healthy competition and school pride.
• Game Locations: Games are hosted in Pinellas County, FL at Northside Christian School, providing a great setting for families to come together and cheer on their young athletes.
• Coaching Team: Our dedicated coaches include Lakeside staff, parents, and even 12th-grade volunteers who mentor younger students.

The Physical and Mental Benefits of Sports

Participating in athletics provides numerous benefits beyond character development. Regular physical activity helps students maintain a healthy lifestyle, improving cardiovascular fitness, strength, and coordination. Additionally, research shows that students who engage in sports tend to perform better academically, as exercise enhances concentration, memory, and overall cognitive function.

Playing sports also helps reduce stress and anxiety, giving students a healthy outlet for energy and emotions. By participating in elementary athletics, children learn to balance academics, extracurricular activities, and personal well-being.

Why Choose Lakeside Christian School for Elementary Athletics?

Choosing the right school for your child is an important decision, and if you’re looking for private schools in Clearwater that prioritize character development, academics, and extracurricular activities, Lakeside Christian School stands out.

 Here’s why parents trust Lakeside’s elementary sports program:

• Faith-Based Sportsmanship – We integrate Christian values into all aspects of athletics, teaching students to play with integrity and respect.
• Small Team Sizes – Each child receives personalized coaching and more opportunities for hands-on learning.
• Safe & Supportive Environment – With dedicated coaches and caring staff, your child is encouraged to grow in confidence and skill.
• Foster a positive community: Students, coaches, and families come together to create a supportive environment.
• Encourage lifelong fitness: Our program helps instill healthy habits that children can carry into adulthood.
• Prepare students for future success: The skills and values learned through sports lay the foundation for academic and personal growth.

Learn More About Lakeside’s Elementary Sports Program

At Lakeside Christian School, we believe that elementary athletics play a vital role in shaping students into confident, disciplined, and well-rounded individuals. If you’re searching for the best elementary schools that offer a strong academic foundation alongside character-building sports programs, we invite you to explore what Lakeside has to offer.

Ready to learn more? Contact us today to discover how our elementary sports program can benefit your child and to explore private school enrollment options for the 2025-2026 school year!

Schedule a Campus Tour

Lakeside Christian School is committed to providing an academically enriching and spiritually nurturing environment for students. Our school uniform policy is just one of the ways we create a structured, safe, and welcoming learning atmosphere.

If you’re looking for a private school in Clearwater, FL, that prioritizes academic excellence, character building athletics, spiritual growth, and a positive school culture, we invite you to schedule a visit to our campus. Contact our admissions team today to learn more about enrollmentl.

Take the Next Step

Are you ready to discover why Lakeside Christian School is one of the best private schools in Clearwater FL? Contact us today to learn more about our programs, schedule a campus tour, or discuss enrollment opportunities. We look forward to partnering with your family on this exciting educational journey.

Contact us to schedule a tour or speak with our admissions team. You can reach us at 727-261-0937, email us at office@lakesidechristianschool.org, or fill out our online contact form.

Experience the Lakeside difference—where growth, leadership, and faith come together to prepare students for a bright future.

To schedule a tour of our campus or to learn more about Lakeside Christian School, the best elementary school in Clearwater, FL, contact us now.

Why Winter Sports at Lakeside Christian School Are About More Than Just Winning

At Lakeside Christian School, a leading choice among Christian high schools in Clearwater, FL, our middle school and high school winter sports programs offer more than just competition—they’re about fostering teamwork, perseverance, and spiritual growth. As one of the best private high schools in Clearwater, FL, Lakeside provides students with opportunities to develop character, faith, and skills that will benefit them for a lifetime.

A Well-Rounded Winter Sports Program

Lakeside’s winter sports offerings for our middle school and high school students include:

• Soccer: Middle school co-ed, varsity girls, and varsity boys teams.
• Basketball: Middle school boys, JV boys, varsity boys, and varsity girls teams.

These programs are led by coaches dedicated to developing athletes physically, emotionally, and spiritually. With softball and baseball seasons starting soon, Lakeside remains committed to offering a wide range of athletic opportunities to its students.

If you’re exploring Christian high schools in Clearwater, FL, or searching for private high schools in Clearwater, FL with strong athletic programs, contact us to learn more.

Teamwork: Building Stronger Individuals

At Lakeside Christian School, teamwork is a cornerstone of our winter sports programs. Whether on the soccer field or basketball court, students learn to work together, communicate effectively, and support one another. These skills, honed at one of the top private high schools in Clearwater, FL, prepare students for success in their future endeavors.

Perseverance: Overcoming Challenges

Winter sports at Lakeside help students build resilience. Through challenges such as tough games, rigorous practices, and occasional setbacks, they learn to persevere. These lessons prepare them to face obstacles in life with confidence.

Parents searching for Christian high schools in Clearwater, FL can trust Lakeside to instill qualities like perseverance and determination in their children, equipping them for success beyond the classroom.

Spiritual Growth: Athletics with a Higher Purpose

What sets Lakeside apart from other private high schools in Clearwater, FL is our focus on spiritual development through sports. Our athletes engage in prayer, devotionals, and Christ-centered character building.

This holistic approach ensures students grow not only as athletes but as individuals who live out their faith. For families considering Christian high schools in Clearwater, FL, Lakeside offers a unique combination of academic, athletic, and spiritual excellence.

Physical and Mental Health Benefits of Sports

Participation in sports offers teens numerous physical and mental health benefits. At Lakeside Christian School, our winter sports programs, including soccer and basketball, help students stay active and maintain a healthy lifestyle. Regular physical activity improves cardiovascular health, builds strength, and enhances coordination.

But the benefits don’t stop at physical health. Sports also positively impact mental health by reducing stress, improving mood, and building confidence. Teens involved in athletics often demonstrate better time-management skills and increased self-discipline—qualities that benefit them academically and personally. For families seeking private high schools in Clearwater, FL, Lakeside provides a supportive environment where these benefits are cultivated.

Leadership Skills Developed Through Sports

Sports at Lakeside Christian School also help teens develop leadership skills. Whether captaining a team, mentoring younger athletes, or learning to lead by example, students gain valuable experience in guiding others. A study reported by the Atlanta Journal-Constitution indicates that nearly 70% of women who played sports in their youth went on to hold leadership roles in their workplaces, underscoring the role of youth athletics in leadership development. These leadership opportunities translate into stronger self-esteem and better interpersonal skills, setting students up for success in college and beyond.

By emphasizing leadership and teamwork, Lakeside stands out among Christian high schools in Clearwater, FL as a place where students grow into well-rounded, confident individuals ready to make a difference in their communities and beyond.

If you want your child to experience these life-changing opportunities, reach out to Lakeside today to schedule a school tour and learn more.

Testimonials: What Families Say

Families consistently praise the transformative experience of Lakeside’s sports programs, coaches, and academics. One parent shared in a google review:

“Lakeside Christian School provides our daughter with a strong academic and spiritual balance. The teachers and administration are dedicated and genuinely care about the students. They are also role models who live out their faith in Christ and help to set an example for our daughter. We are not only thankful for the academic program but athletics and other enrichment opportunities that LCS has to offer. The school community feels like family: they foster a safe, caring, and respectful environment that is felt the moment you walk onto the campus. Additionally, we have found LCS to be a wonderful collaboration of caring families who share the same values and support one another. I hope prospective parents and children will also see how special and outstanding LCS truly is. I highly recommend it.”

This feedback reflects the values that make Lakeside a standout among private high schools in Clearwater, FL.

A Community Committed to Growth

As Lakeside Christian School continues to grow, we remain focused on providing exceptional opportunities for our students. Whether in academics, athletics, or spiritual development, we aim to create a nurturing environment that sets us apart from other Christian high schools in Clearwater, FL.

To learn more about our programs or schedule a visit, fill our our simple and easy contact form and an Administrator will reach out to you.

Join the Lions: A Tradition of Excellence

If you’re searching for private high schools in Clearwater, FL, that combine competitive sports with character-building and spiritual growth, Lakeside Christian School is the perfect choice. Our winter sports programs, including soccer and basketball, go beyond winning to instill values that last a lifetime.

Discover why so many families choose Lakeside. Contact us today to learn more about enrollment for the 2025-26 school year and become part of a K-12 private school community that champions faith, learning, and purpose.

Take the Next Step

Are you ready to discover why Lakeside Christian School is one of the best private high schools in Clearwater FL? Contact us today to learn more about our programs, schedule a campus tour, or discuss enrollment opportunities. We look forward to partnering with your family on this exciting educational journey.

Contact us to schedule a tour or speak with our admissions team. You can reach us at 727-239-7808, email us at office@lakesidechristianschool.org, or fill out our online contact form.

Experience the Lakeside difference—where growth, leadership, and faith come together to prepare students for a bright future.

To schedule a tour of our campus or to learn more about Lakeside Christian School, the best private high school in Clearwater, FL, contact us now.

Lakeside Christian School Rallies for Reopening: Hurricane Milton Recovery Efforts

At Lakeside Christian School, a private Christian school in Clearwater, Florida, we have a strong foundation of faith and community, and it’s this foundation that helps us persevere through challenges. In the wake of Hurricane Milton, our campus has experienced significant water damage, temporarily closing the school. Yet, as we strive to reopen and welcome students back to their classrooms, the response from our school community and Lakeside Community Chapel is inspiring. Thanks to the support of our extended family, we are working hard to ensure our students are back in a safe and thriving environment. Our commitment to being a leader among private Christian schools in Clearwater, FL, remains steadfast, and we look forward to welcoming back K-8 students on Monday, October 21, and 9-12 students on Wednesday, October 23. Our 9-12 students will be able to complete online review lessons from home on October 21-22 to prepare them for their on campus return, ready to start their quarter 2 classwork.

Our Resilient Community: Rising to the Challenge

The damage from Hurricane Milton left our gym and first floor flooded, with many areas requiring complete restoration. While challenging, the support from parents, staff, and Lakeside Community Chapel has truly showcased our school’s strength. From the very beginning, the church, which founded our school as a ministry in 1975, has been actively involved in clean-up efforts and providing logistical support for recovery.

Together, our community is rallying to restore our campus and provide a space where students can continue their academic and spiritual growth. This cooperation among parents, alumni, church members, teachers, and student volunteers is a testament to the unique strength of private Christian schools in Clearwater, FL, where collaboration and shared faith guide our actions.

How Faith Shapes Our Recovery Efforts

At Lakeside Christian School, faith is at the core of everything we do. During this time, it has been heartening to see so many community members coming together with the shared goal of restoring our campus. Our students, parents, and faculty have all pitched in, contributing time and resources to help us rebuild. Our partnership with Lakeside Community Chapel has been instrumental, with the church’s support serving as a true reminder of how our Christian values manifest in times of need.

As we navigate this process, we are reminded of the words of Psalm 46:1: “God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.” At Lakeside Christian School, we believe that our reliance on God’s guidance strengthens us as a community, especially in times of adversity.

Restoring Campus Safety and Excellence

Safety is a priority as we work to reopen our campus. With the help of professional restoration teams, we are addressing the necessary repairs to ensure that each classroom is safe and conducive to learning. We are working diligently to meet our reopening goals, ensuring that our school environment is once again ready for students.

While repairs are underway, we also continue to prioritize academic excellence. As one of the most respected private Christian schools in Clearwater, FL, our focus remains on providing high-quality education and Biblical guidance. As our second quarter begins, we are excited to re-engage students with a renewed commitment to both their academic and spiritual growth.

A Recognition of Resilience: The FHSAA Sportsmanship Award Runner-Up

Lakeside Christian School’s commitment to integrity and perseverance is also recognized in our athletics program. We were honored to be named runner-up for the FHSAA Sportsmanship Award last year, underscoring our dedication to values like respect, teamwork, and discipline.

Our students learn the value of sportsmanship, not just on the field but in everyday life. Through participation in sports, they experience firsthand the importance of perseverance, commitment, and representing Christ. These are the same values that guide our recovery from Hurricane Milton, as our school community strives to be a beacon of light and hope in Clearwater.

Looking Forward to Winter Sports

Amid the recovery, our students and coaches are already looking forward to the upcoming winter sports season, including basketball and soccer. Football, volleyball, and cross country will wrap up their seasons over the next few weeks. The start of these winter athletics programs provides our students with opportunities to bond, build resilience, and strengthen their athletic abilities. The delay in reopening has not dampened our enthusiasm; instead, it has highlighted the importance of community, resilience, and teamwork—values that are at the heart of both our academic and athletic programs. Our volleyball and football teams have been able to continue their practices even though school is not yet in session.

With basketball and soccer seasons on the horizon, students and coaches are prepared to uphold the same level of sportsmanship and dedication they displayed during the fall. We are excited for these programs to contribute positively to our school community, reinforcing our commitment to fostering both spiritual and physical growth.

How You Can Help: Supporting Lakeside’s Recovery

The support from our community has been invaluable, and for those who wish to contribute, there are multiple ways to help us rebuild. Whether it’s through financial donations, volunteer time, or prayer, every bit of support helps. Those interested in contributing can contact our administrative office at office@lakesidechristianschool.org to learn more about specific needs.

It’s in moments like these that we realize the importance of unity within our school family. Lakeside Christian School is more than a campus; it’s a community of families, students, and educators who share a commitment to living out their faith.

Welcoming Families Interested in a Private Christian Education in Clearwater, Florida

Despite these recent challenges, Lakeside Christian School continues to be one of the leading private Christian schools in Clearwater, FL. If you’re considering a faith-centered education for your K-12 child, we invite you to learn more about our school’s programs, values, and unwavering commitment to excellence. We are currently enrolling both new student for this year (spots are limited so please contact us for availability) and we are currently enrolling for the upcoming school year. We would love to share how Lakeside Christian School is uniquely equipped to nurture both academic achievement and spiritual growth.

If you are exploring safe, academically challenging, accredited private schools in Clearwater, FL, we encourage you to visit our website or call to schedule a tour. Let us show you how Lakeside Christian School’s dedication to providing a supportive and faith-filled environment can make a lasting difference in your child’s life.

To schedule a tour of our campus or to learn more about Lakeside Christian School, one of the best private Christian schools in Clearwater, FL, contact us now.

How Sports Can Strengthen Your Child’s Relationship with God

Winning Beyond the Scoreboard: Athletics and Character Development at Christian Middle Schools

December 2022- School Newsletter

Lakeside Gives Back!

October 2022 – School Newsletter

The Role of Athletics in Your Child’s Education

As private and public schools across the country build their budgets for the next school year, they’ll be allocating millions of dollars in spending plans to fund scholastic sports. This includes the cost of coaching salaries, equipment, transportation, facility rentals, and other items necessary to provide students with the opportunity to participate in athletics at school. During the time of a pandemic that’s quickly morphing into a major economic crisis, it’s clear why some parents and teachers alike may be questioning whether athletic programs are worth the cost.

To answer this question, we have to consider the role of athletics in your child’s education. In this article, we’ll explore why Lakeside Christian School, one of the top private high schools in Clearwater, FL, and many other schools believe that athletics has a profound impact on your child’s school performance, values, and well-being. For more information or to schedule a tour of our campus, please give us a call at (727) 261-0937.

School Performance

Contrary to the widely-held notion that athletics is detrimental to a student’s academic performance, recent studies have shown that student-athletes are just as successful if not more successful than non-athletes in terms of academic achievement. In a report published by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), physical activity was consistently related to positive outcomes, including academic achievement, cognitive skills (memory and concentration), and academic behaviors.

Increased time spent on physical activity also did not detract from academic performance even when less time was devoted to subjects other than physical education. This strongly aligns with the National Association for Sport and Physical Education’s recommendation that students participate in at least 60 minutes of physical activity daily.  In addition to improved concentration and academic achievement, those who participate in high school sports are also 15 percent more likely to attend college as a result.

Related: LCS Athletics Quick Facts

Values

The athletic program at Lakeside Christian School, one of the best private schools in Clearwater, FL, plays a crucial role in teaching our students to act with discipline, respect themselves and their peers, assume responsibility, apply God’s word and his principles to their lives, and develop a commitment to their team and the school as a whole. The student-athletes at Lakeside Christian School serve as role models for their fellow classmates and members of their community. Other essential life skills students frequently take away from athletic programs include:

• Determination
• Teamwork
• Time management
• Integrity
• Commitment
• Unity

Related: What Sets Lakeside Christian School Apart From Other Private Schools in Clearwater, FL?

Well-being

Finally, athletics also plays a role in the well-being of your child. Since student-athletes have a greater sense of personal responsibility and initiative, they are more likely to build stronger relationships with their peers, have higher self-esteem, and participate more in volunteerism. A recent study conducted by Gallup on behalf of the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) found that students who competed in athletics were more likely to report as “thriving” when it comes to community engagement, job satisfaction, and relationships.

If you’re looking to reap any of the benefits of including a strong athletics program in your child’s education, reach out to Lakeside Christian School — one of the best private high schools in Clearwater, FL that currently offers varsity football, volleyball, baseball, softball, basketball, cross country, and more.

If you would like to learn more about Lakeside Christian School, one of the top private schools in Clearwater, FL, please give us a call at (727) 239-7808 or schedule a tour of our campus.