Shorian Nation eNews
August 31st, 2025
You're Invited to a Special Celebration at Rodgers Elementary!
Lake Shore Public Schools is proud to announce the rededication of Rodgers Elementary School — and you're invited to help us celebrate this important milestone in our district’s history!
Join Superintendent Dr. DiPonio and Rodgers Principal Mrs. Winiarski for a ribbon-cutting ceremony at the school’s front entrance on Monday, September 1st at 6:30 PM. This event marks the official unveiling of the newly reimagined Rodgers Elementary — a space created to inspire, empower, and support every student who walks through its doors.
Over the past 18 months, Rodgers has undergone a stunning transformation, beginning with the demolition of the old school wing in December 2023/January 2024 and followed by the start of construction in Spring 2024. What began as architectural plans filled with promise has now become a modern, student-centered learning environment designed to promote creativity, spark innovation, and foster a love of learning. Every corner of the building was imagined with the future in mind, a place where our children can grow, thrive, and dream big.
We’re excited to share the incredible improvements made to our campus:
New Addition: 9,850 sq. ft. expansion featuring a brand-new café and gymnasium!
Exterior Upgrades: Select roof areas replaced for better protection.
Interior Updates: New doors, hardware, and upgraded safety locks throughout.
Classroom Enhancements:
• New flooring, cabinets, and sinks
• Upgraded water fountains & mixing valves
• Energy-efficient lighting
• New classroom furniture
Safety First:
• Emergency alert systems installed
• Improved classroom locks
• Enhanced video surveillance & access control
Site Improvements:
• Added parking on Lanse Street
• Dedicated bus loop created
• Upgraded courtyard & playground
Cafeteria Boost: New kitchen equipment added
Rodgers is more than just a school — it’s a symbol of progress and a reflection of our community’s values.
Thanks to the support of our community and responsible stewardship of bond funding, we’ve delivered a facility that matches the excellence of our students and staff. From flexible learning spaces to technology-rich classrooms, the new Rodgers is a hub of opportunity and exploration — one that will serve Shorians for generations to come.
We invite our entire Shorian Nation — families, alumni, neighbors, and friends — to be a part of this celebration. Come take a first look at the new space, meet the people who made it happen, and help us honor the journey that brought us here.
Welcome Back, Shorians!
On this Back to School Hub page you will find everything you need to know to prepare your child and family for the upcoming school year within Lake Shore Public Schools.
We are just a few days away from the first day of school! Be sure to take pictures and share them with us at social@lsps.org! #ShorianPride
Fall Open Houses
Usually held right before school begins or the within the first two weeks of school, our building Meet the Teacher evenings give parents and students the chance to get acquainted with the teacher (or teachers), see the building and classrooms, and perhaps get a quick overview of class expectations and the year's curriculum.
Please mark your calendars for the following Back to School Open Houses:
Lake Shore High School
9/9/25 @ 5:30-7pm
Kennedy Middle School
9/11/25 @ 5:30-7pm
Elementary Buildings
9/10/25 @ 5:30-7pm
Food Service
𝓛𝓪𝓴𝓮 𝓢𝓱𝓸𝓻𝓮 𝓟𝓾𝓫𝓵𝓲𝓬 𝓢𝓬𝓱𝓸𝓸𝓵𝓼 𝓲𝓼 𝓬𝓸𝓷𝓽𝓲𝓷𝓾𝓲𝓷𝓰 𝓽𝓱𝓮 𝓯𝓻𝓮𝓮 𝓼𝓬𝓱𝓸𝓸𝓵 𝓶𝓮𝓪𝓵𝓼 𝓹𝓻𝓸𝓰𝓻𝓪𝓶 𝓽𝓱𝓻𝓸𝓾𝓰𝓱 𝓮𝓪𝓻𝓵𝔂 𝓯𝓪𝓵𝓵 𝓸𝓯 2025 𝔀𝓱𝓲𝓵𝓮 𝓽𝓱𝓮 𝓢𝓽𝓪𝓽𝓮 𝓸𝓯 𝓜𝓲𝓬𝓱𝓲𝓰𝓪𝓷 𝔀𝓸𝓻𝓴𝓼 𝓽𝓸 𝓪𝓭𝓸𝓹𝓽 𝓪 𝓫𝓾𝓭𝓰𝓮𝓽 𝓫𝔂 𝓽𝓱𝓮 𝓢𝓮𝓹𝓽𝓮𝓶𝓫𝓮𝓻 30𝓽𝓱 𝓭𝓮𝓪𝓭𝓵𝓲𝓷𝓮.
LSPS, in partnership with Chartwells Food Services, provides healthy meals to all children. Families can use our Nutrislice app for access to menus: https://lakeshoreschools.nutrislice.com/menus-eula.
You asked, we listened! Introducing Family Portal by Meal Magic for all things Food Service such as making deposits, transferring between students, viewing account history, setting daily spending limits or other restrictions!
𝓛𝓢𝓟𝓢 𝓲𝓼 𝓼𝓽𝓲𝓵𝓵 𝓼𝓮𝓮𝓴𝓲𝓷𝓰 𝓽𝓸 𝓸𝓫𝓽𝓪𝓲𝓷 𝓬𝓸𝓶𝓹𝓵𝓮𝓽𝓮𝓭 𝓔𝓵𝓲𝓰𝓲𝓫𝓲𝓵𝓲𝓽𝔂 𝓑𝓮𝓷𝓮𝓯𝓲𝓽𝓼 𝓕𝓸𝓻𝓶𝓼 𝓯𝓻𝓸𝓶 𝓪𝓵𝓵 𝓯𝓪𝓶𝓲𝓵𝓲𝓮𝓼; 𝓘𝓽 𝓲𝓼 𝓲𝓶𝓹𝓸𝓻𝓽𝓪𝓷𝓽 𝓽𝓸 𝓻𝓮𝓬𝓮𝓲𝓿𝓮 𝓽𝓱𝓮𝓼𝓮 𝓪𝓹𝓹𝓵𝓲𝓬𝓪𝓽𝓲𝓸𝓷𝓼 𝓲𝓷 𝓸𝓻𝓭𝓮𝓻 𝓽𝓸 𝓪𝓽𝓽𝓪𝓲𝓷 𝓽𝓱𝓮 𝓶𝓪𝔁𝓲𝓶𝓾𝓶 𝓪𝓶𝓸𝓾𝓷𝓽 𝓸𝓯 𝓯𝓮𝓭𝓮𝓻𝓪𝓵 𝓪𝓼𝓼𝓲𝓼𝓽𝓪𝓷𝓬𝓮 𝓯𝓸𝓻 𝓸𝓽𝓱𝓮𝓻 𝓹𝓻𝓸𝓰𝓻𝓪𝓶𝓼 (𝓸𝓾𝓽𝓼𝓲𝓭𝓮 𝓸𝓯 𝓯𝓻𝓮𝓮 𝓶𝓮𝓪𝓵𝓼) 𝓽𝓱𝓪𝓽 𝓰𝓻𝓮𝓪𝓽𝓵𝔂 𝓫𝓮𝓷𝓮𝓯𝓲𝓽 𝓸𝓾𝓻 𝓼𝓽𝓾𝓭𝓮𝓷𝓽𝓼 𝓪𝓷𝓭 𝓯𝓪𝓶𝓲𝓵𝓲𝓮𝓼 𝓼𝓾𝓬𝓱 𝓪𝓼 𝓼𝓬𝓱𝓸𝓸𝓵 𝓯𝓾𝓷𝓭𝓲𝓷𝓰, 𝓽𝓮𝓬𝓱𝓷𝓸𝓵𝓸𝓰𝔂 𝓯𝓾𝓷𝓭𝓲𝓷𝓰, 𝓢𝓐𝓣, 𝓐𝓒𝓣, 𝓪𝓷𝓭 𝓐𝓟 𝓽𝓮𝓼𝓽 𝓭𝓲𝓼𝓬𝓸𝓾𝓷𝓽𝓼, 𝓬𝓸𝓵𝓵𝓮𝓰𝓮 𝓪𝓹𝓹𝓵𝓲𝓬𝓪𝓽𝓲𝓸𝓷 𝓭𝓲𝓼𝓬𝓸𝓾𝓷𝓽𝓼, 𝓪𝓽𝓱𝓵𝓮𝓽𝓲𝓬𝓼, 𝓰𝓻𝓪𝓷𝓽𝓼, 𝓪𝓷𝓭 𝓲𝓷𝓼𝓽𝓻𝓾𝓬𝓽𝓲𝓸𝓷𝓪𝓵 𝓼𝓾𝓹𝓹𝓸𝓻𝓽 𝓹𝓻𝓸𝓰𝓻𝓪𝓶𝓼.
The easiest way to apply is by visiting https://lakeshore.familyportal.cloud/.
Completed forms should be returned to your child's school.
Please have your child bring their Student ID as this identification will be utilized by our Food Service Department for all meals. It should be ready to be scanned when making food selections.
Contact Rosa Burg at (586) 285-8926 or rburg@lsps.org for questions or assistance completing the Eligibility Benefits Form. Chartwells Dining Service's goal is to serve up happy and healthy meals while making the cafeteria the happiest place in school.
Chromebook Insurance
🎓 Lake Shore is Powered by Technology! 💻
For the past 8 years, all Lake Shore students have had access to district-issued Chromebooks, helping them learn anytime, anywhere. These devices connect to Schoology, our learning management system since 2017 — chosen for its student-friendly design and flexibility for all teaching styles.
🛡️ Device Insurance Now Available!
We're partnering with Smart Tech to offer optional Chromebook insurance for the 2025-26 school year: 💲 $29 per device
✅ Covers:
• Accidental damage
• Liquid damage
• Battery failure
• Manufacturer defects
• Loss & theft
🚫 Does not cover: chargers, cases, or intentional damage
💡 No deductibles. No claim limits. One-time annual fee.
👨👩👧👦 Max family cost: $87 (must call Smart Tech to purchase multiple)
📅 Purchase Window:
Sept 1 – Dec 20, 2025
📆 Coverage lasts until Aug 30, 2026
⚠️ Without coverage, families are responsible for full repair/replacement costs:
• Chromebook: $300
• Screen: $75
• Battery: $40
• Hinges: $25
• Keyboard: $20
• Camera: $10
Costs without insurance will vary, as parts prices are subject to change.
Care Solace
Youth mental health is a topic of utmost importance, and we believe that by working together, we can create a supportive environment where our children can thrive.
As we start the new school year, we want to remind you of the invaluable resources available to our community.
In addition, Care Solace offers mental health care coordination services and can help connect you and your child with appropriate community-based providers. Whether it's counseling, therapy, or other mental health services, Care Solace can assist you in finding the support your family may need.
To access Care Solace's coordination services, simply reach out using the following options:
Call 888-515-0595: Their multilingual helpline is staffed 24/7/365.
Visit www.caresolace.com/lsps: On their website, you can explore mental health providers independently or click "Book Appointment" for personalized assistance through video chat, email, or phone.
By joining hands and working together as a community, we can provide a nurturing and inclusive environment that supports the mental health and well-being of our youth. Let's continue to prioritize their emotional growth, and together, we can create a brighter future for our children.
Thank you for being caring and involved parents and guardians in the Lake Shore Public Schools. Your dedication to supporting our youth is truly commendable.
LSPS Welcome Back Convocation
Welcome back, Lake Shore!
We're proud—proud of our past and prospects of our future.
During the District’s Welcome Back Convocation, all 400+ employees enjoyed a delicious breakfast, visited with colleagues, and listened to keynote speakers tailoring their messages to highlight this year's motto: Rise. Grind. Repeat. Their messages reminded us that each new day is a chance to rise with purpose, put in the work, and continue the cycle of growth and success together.
Speaker highlights included a welcome message from Principal Dr. Bross, All-Star Teacher Mrs. Hoehing, and Senior Ashley Geib, LSPS Foundation update, and closing keynote from Superintendent Dr. Joe DiPonio.
As of yesterday, Ashley officially began her role as the Senior Board of Education Student Representative. With poise and confidence, she shared this message:
"As a lifelong Shorian, I have truly felt the impact you all leave on each student individually. By introducing new topics, career paths, and providing tools to learn beyond the classroom, you are giving us the pieces of the puzzle that shape who we are and who we will become."
She went on to describe her own passion for music and theatre—crediting the teachers who encouraged her to step outside her comfort zone and believed in her. She rose because they put in the work, again and again.
For 37 years, Mrs. Hoehing has dedicated herself wholeheartedly to her Violet students. Her outlook on teaching and learning remains the same: a deep appreciation for her students and the meaningful memories they create together. She reminded her colleagues, “Our students may not remember every lesson we teach, but they will always remember how we made them feel. That is the power we hold. That is our superpower.”
For 102 years we've had an unwavering belief in education rooted in moments in time that share our inspiration, innovation, and celebration at Lake Shore. The Shorian Nation believes in the transformative power of education for all students.
That spirit was on full display—Special Education Teacher Mr. Carney showed his pride in a LS-branded shirt, while Cook Lead Rose Montalbano sported a LS-inspired nail design.
On behalf of everyone in the district, we are excited to see you on Tuesday, September 2nd. Once a Shorian, Always a Shorian!
New Teacher Orientation
The journey of a new teacher is a blend of excitement, anticipation, and a touch of nervousness. As educational landscapes continue to evolve, it's imperative to equip these new educators with the tools they need to navigate the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead. A comprehensive and well-structured New Teacher Orientation can make all the difference in ensuring their successful integration into the educational community.
Topics included District Vision and Values, Instructional Practices, Lake Shore Culture, Mentor Support, Technology, Vector Solutions Training, Payroll/Benefits/Reimbursements, PowerSchool, Attendance, Professional Development/Conferences, and the Lake Shore Foundation. It was a full day of preparation for the new school year; This preparation is the bridge between aspirations and achievements.
Superintendent Dr. DiPonio stressed that raising kids to be the very best they can be is our mission as educators. He personalized this statement by sharing goals for his own 3 children. He said, "When my kids came home from school, I wanted 2 things as a father. I wanted them to be better, more developed people and to be happy." His message about being architects of learning experiences and having the opportunity to leave kids with a smile at the end of the day is an important one to remember as our new teachers embark on this school year.
Welcome to the Shorian Nation!
Lake Shore High School
Jessica Lesniak-Adams – English
Mia Rohrig – Art
Kennedy Middle School
Brooke Nysen – Special Ed Resource Room Math
Julie Moceri – Teacher Consultant
Rodgers Elementary
Emily Eschenburg – 3rd Grade
Christian Wallace – 4th Grade
Katherine Patrico – 4th Grade
Chelsey Dansbury – ECSE
Karla Toma – Music
Violet Elementary
Julia Westrick – 5th Grade
Alania Frost – 2nd Grade
Megan Messina – MICI 3–5
Lily Bujan – SE Resource Room
Early Childhood Center (ECC)
Jessica Vollaro – GSRP
Rachel Boutin – GSRP
District
Kelly Feamster – School Psych (Secondary)
Thank you to all of our exemplary district leaders who were present to offer invaluable support, assistance, and share their expertise.
Summer Programming
Ahoy, mateys!
Ms. Bologna and Ms. Zweng’s crew set sail on a swashbuckling Pirate Day adventure during their Summer Scholars program at Violet Elementary – where learning met treasure-hunting fun!
Our young pirates used their writing skills to name their own seafaring alter egos and share their favorite piratey pastimes. Then it was full steam ahead on a math story problem scavenger hunt! The classroom was alive with excitement during “Write the Room” and treasure-finding challenges!
Lake Shore grad Morgan Clausen (‘22) and lnstructional Ambassador through the MISD summed it up perfectly:
“Pirate Day gets students pumped for learning! Summer is the perfect time to sharpen skills for the new school year, and Ms. Bologna and Ms. Zweng make it exciting and engaging. Who wouldn’t love a day of pirate fun?”
Shoutout to our amazing additional Teacher Cadets Kendra Damm and Ellie Mitchener-Rubino serving these classrooms and every Cadet for helping make the day extra fun – you helped steer the ship!
Learn more about our Summer Programming by visiting the following links:
Girls in Gear: STEM Power Camp, For Girls Entering 6th and 7th Grade
GReady to build, design, tinker, and power up your imagination? Harper Miller, Harper Abel, Brooklyn Mitchell, Antonette Lancott, A'Layah Williams, and Charolette Eischer joined us for Girls in Gear, a hands-on STEM adventure!
In this exciting camp, they team up with high school mentor and IAM Robot Team Member Logan Pegher and college mentors Abby Finch and Madison Bellman and dove into the world of STEM through making, hacking, and designing. From coding and robotics to using real power tools, every day was packed with innovation, exploration, and confidence-building fun.
Whether building, coding, or problems-solving, they left the camp with new skills, a stronger voice, and a clearer vision of their future in STEM.
Leadership and Professional Development
Our Lake Shore Management team held their annual Summer Strategic Planning Retreat at Jimmy John's Field. At this meeting, district leaders continued to plan for the 2025-26 school year by discussing priority initiatives, legal considerations and updates from Jessie McNamara, and future planning. They continue to carry out the district vision and values using our guiding principles as the focus.
Superintendent Dr. DiPonio closed the meeting with this sage advice. "If we take care of our people, our people will take care of our kids, and we'll be in good shape. Let's prioritize taking care of each other."
Leadership isn’t about being the loudest in the room. It’s about guiding your pride — or your people — through uncertainty with courage and clarity.
🛠️ Staff sharpened their saws in recent PD sessions, transforming their approach to teaching and classroom design for deeper engagement and achievement.
📚 Everyday Math Kickoff & Planning
Elementary teachers dug into EM with targeted training on lesson planning and launching strong routines from Day 1. K–2 and 3–5 teams worked in grade-level groups for focused support.
🎯 Outcomes:
✅ Prepped to launch Unit 1 in Week 1
✅ Gained clarity on K–2 Daily & 3–5 Number Sense Routines
✅ Built trust in EM’s research-based spiral approach
✅ Used planning time to gear up for Day 2
💭 Reflection:
How can EM routines support classroom procedures and student collaboration?
🎓 Secondary Staff PD Recap
Secondary teachers continued their work on guaranteed & viable curriculum—aligning benchmark assessments, prioritized standards, and scope & sequence for the 25–26 school year.
🎯 Focus Areas:
✅ District benchmark assessment & admin plan
✅ Review of course standards for targeted instruction
💭 Reflection:
How can benchmark data guide my instruction to meet student needs?
🎨 Special Education & Elective teachers explored a range of opportunities, including:
🎵 QuaverEd Webinars
🌍 World Languages Summit
💻 PowerTeacher Updates
👥 NCI Training
🧩 PLCs for collaboration & continuous growth
Crisis Prevention
Tara Hauler, MOCI teacher at Rodgers (3–5), recognizes the importance of Crisis Prevention and remains eager to expand her knowledge. She explained, "CPI training is essential for our special education team as we prepare for the new school year. It provides us with the knowledge and hands-on practice to approach challenging situations with confidence, ensuring positive outcomes for both students and staff."
✔️ Staff also completed essential safety and compliance trainings (FERPA, Active Shooter, Homelessness Awareness & more).
At Lake Shore, we’re committed to delivering 180 days of high-quality instruction in safe, supportive classrooms where learning thrives.
Shorian Success Camp
For the second year in a row, Lake Shore High School proudly hosted the Shorian Success Camp — a one-day event designed specifically for our incoming freshmen. This exciting program is all about helping students feel prepared, confident, and connected as they begin their high school journey.
During this immersive day, students explored all that Lake Shore has to offer — from academic programs and support services to extracurricular activities and athletics. But the camp went beyond just information: we focused on the essential tools for success, including organization skills, school spirit, expectations, and daily procedures. Most importantly, we aimed to foster a true sense of belonging in every future Shorian.
Facilitator Julie Roda shared, "I wanted to be a part of this camp to help develop relationships and discuss policies and procedures to ensure a smooth high school transition." With support from Mrs. Rancillo, Mr. Lount, Mrs. Stuckey, Mrs. Saracino, Mr. Spriet, and Mrs. Elkins, the team provided guidance and encouragement every step of the way.
A huge THANK YOU to our amazing National Honor Society students who volunteered their time to serve and mentor these underclassmen. Your leadership and kindness truly made a difference!
Orientations and Open Houses
There are so many reasons for students to get excited about the upcoming school year!
We invited students to visit their building for Orientation Days and Open Houses to learn more about what these schools offer and to connect with other new students. The presentations shared expectations, resources, and advice for a better student experience.
- LSHS Presentation
- LSHS Extracurriculars
- NLHS Extracurriculars
- KMS Extracurriculars
- Masonic Heights Elementary Extracurriculars
- Rodgers Elementary Extracurriculars
- Violet Elementary Extracurriculars
Shorian Pride is more than a sticker. It is the feeling of unity, displayed by deep, long-lasting relationships in a family environment. It is when you find yourself calling Lake Shore your home and referring to your classmates as siblings.
Our student body still displays their spirit in a variety of ways. Students wear the traditional red and white gear to share their love for Lake Shore. They may choose from several extracurricular club options, meeting well after the last bell, because of their sheer dedication.
The transition a new school may feel overwhelming. New building. New schedule. New friends. Over time, those years transform from anxiety to excitement. It is the atmosphere at Lake Shore schools where students learn to adapt, develop skills of independence and responsibility, and prepare for new opportunities.
Thank you administrators and teacher leaders for your leadership, kindness, and extraordinary patience as you helped our students navigate the new year with your friendly demeanors and understanding mindset.
Middle School Jump Start Camp and Orientation
Lake Shore Adult and Community Education and Kennedy Middle School hosted an incoming 6th Grade Jump Start Camp, helping students get ready for their exciting move to middle school!
Highlights included:
- Exploring the school campus
- Practicing locker combinations
- Learning time management and study skills
- Getting organized with Schoology & homework strategies
- Mini-lessons on middle school classes
- Team-building games to build friendships
We were able to observe a lesson that focused on strategies to manage internal and external distractions so that students can maximize their focus (and their success) in school.
What our students are saying about Jump Start Camp:
“I had fun learning how to open lockers, exploring the periodic table, and even playing chess!”
“I met awesome new people and teachers, and now I feel way more confident about middle school.”
“Lockers? No problem! We practiced until we nailed it.”
“I liked the building tour and learning where everything is—it’s not as scary as I thought!”
“I’m excited to walk the halls on my own and even pick out my own lunch!”
“Can’t wait to join the bowling club!”
Campers also teamed up to solve clues and navigate their way through the school—one hallway at a time! It was a challenge (and a workout ), but totally worth it.
Some additional student quotes:
"I feel so much more comfortable walking around the building now."
"Camp was very helpful, I know where I’m going!"
"I feel ready for the first day of school."
Huge thanks to our amazing leaders Rebecca Paver, Melissa Clarkson, and Julie Moceri for guiding students through this important milestone with care and creativity!
Summer Elementary Playground Meetups
we had a blast connecting with elementary students from Masonic Heights, Rodgers, and Violet during our Summer Playground Meetups! The fun continues as we get ready to welcome families at our Welcome Back to School Open House / Meet the Teacher Celebrations on Tuesday, September 10th from 5:30–7:00 PM at all elementary buildings.
Rodgers Elementary teachers shared their experiences:
Jennifer LaRocca said, "The summer playground meetup is always my favorite event to catch up on summer memories with colleagues, see former students and welcome future families. One former student was pumped to tell me about his birthday party coming up next week and I even got to see some former students who are now heading to high school. Events like this bring things full circle — where the school community and our own families can come together in one shared space, reminding us that we’re not just educators, but part of a larger, connected community."
Claire Bologna wrote, "It was so nice to see students and staff at the Summer Meet Up! The laughter, stories, and shared memories made the event truly special. I am looking forward to this upcoming school year!"
Kaylee Schleich shared, "The summer playground meet up was so fun! The kids were so excited to see some of their old classmates and teachers. It was a great opportunity to catch up with families, have some laughs and enjoy popsicles. We’re looking forward to another great year at Rodgers in our newly renovated school! "
Parent Lindsey Willette chimed in with her positive feedback:
"This evening's Rodgers summer playground meet-up was fantastic! My kids were so excited to reunite with classmates, see their old teachers, and scope out their prospective teachers for next year. It was also great for us parents to catch up, as well! As summer quickly winds down, it was the perfect event to get everyone excited for an amazing upcoming school year."
Lake Shore Early Childhood Center's Open House
At our Lake Shore Early Childhood Center's Open House, parents were able to drop-off supplies, receive fundraiser and picture day information, tour the classrooms, and meet new friends and teachers. There was a petting zoo, ice cream truck, and pony rides, too!
Matt and Dawn Peczko shared these sweet words about our ECC:
"We’ve had a wonderful experience with Lake Shore’s Early Childhood Center. Our son has been enrolled since he was four months old, and over the past year and a half we’ve been so impressed with the care, structure, and warmth the program provides.
From the nurturing infant program to the engaging toddler classrooms, the teachers have supported his growth every step of the way. He loves the special activities—especially Water Day and the Holiday Play—and has made so many little friends while learning new skills daily.
As working parents, we appreciate the flexible drop-off hours and daily updates through the daycare app, which bring us peace of mind.
Lake Shore ECC truly provides a safe, supportive, and enriching environment, and we wholeheartedly recommend it to any family."
Built in 1950, our Lake Shore Early Childhood Center, formally known as Shores Child Care, is a wonderful facility for all kids. Let Your Child's Career with Lake Shore Begin with Us is the slogan we like to use as we welcome families.
LSECC Coordinator Kelly Biondo reflected, "I am incredibly proud of the ECC and its remarkable staff. Their unwavering dedication, boundless passion, and tireless efforts inspire me every day. Their commitment to excellence and their ability to create a nurturing environment truly make it an honor to be a part of this team. Going to work each day is a joy because of the shared sense of purpose, the collaborative spirit, and the genuine care that radiates throughout our work. Together, we make a difference, and that is something truly worth looking forward to."
The elementary and secondary schools have their own Meet the Teacher evenings, in mid-September. These events will be great opportunities to feel comfortable navigating the building and leave with a positive preview of what's to come.
District Safety Team
Meet Our District Safety Team from Fortis Group
We're proud to partner with Fortis Group, Michigan’s leading firm in protection, investigation, and training, to help keep our schools safe. Together, this outstanding team brings over 160 years of combined law enforcement experience to our district.
- James Vernier – Program Director, School Safety & Security
- Charles Medley – Field Supervisor, Lake Shore Early Childhood Center
- Dave Dell – Protection Specialist, Lake Shore High School
- Tom Marinkovich – Protection Specialist, Kennedy Middle School
- Michelle Land – Protection Specialist, Rodgers Elementary
- Shawn Mortier – Protection Specialist, Masonic Heights Elementary
- Jason Nagy – Protection Specialist, Violet Elementary
- Daniel Gullion, Robert LeCouffe, Richard Mertz – Auxiliary Protection Specialists
Our students are our top priority. As school safety continues to be a growing concern nationwide, Fortis Group brings professional, visible, and caring protection to ensure a secure learning environment for all.
We’re also thrilled to welcome back Detective Glen Hartman, our School Resource Officer, for another 3-year partnership. His presence, alongside Fortis, strengthens our commitment to safety across all campuses.
Ashley Geib and Brielle Starks Named 2025–26 Student Representatives
Senior Ashley Geib and Junior Brielle Starks will serve as student representatives for the Board of Education. They will sit on the Board for the 2025-26 school year, providing valuable input and student insight. Student representatives took their Oath of Office at the August 25, 2025 Board of Education meeting. Learn more about Ashley and Brielle below:
Senior Ashley has been in the Lake Shore district since kindergarten, and is heavily involved in many district activities. She can frequently be seen in the Lake Shore High School auditorium performing in their many musicals and concerts, as well as volunteering for stage crew at other district and non-district events. As Senior Class President, she hopes to create more school spirit and overall involvement within the class. After high school, she plans to attend a university to pursue a career in musical theater.
A school of choice student, Junior Brielle is a proud Masonic Tiger and life-long Shorian! She has gained extensive leadership experience as she was NJHS President in middle school and has consistently been a class officer in Student Congress throughout high school. Aside from her active role in Student Congress, she can be found singing her heart out in Lake Shore’s auditorium. From her very first musical in 4th grade, to performing as the lead in the last 3 musicals and singing in the Fusion Show Choir, it is safe to say she dedicates many hours to rehearsing on the stage. She is also a member of Lake Shore’s cross country team and stage crew, as well as an AP and Honors student. However, outside of her busy schedule and demanding school activities, she enjoys camping, reading, and spending time with her family. She is looking forward to serving as a student representative for the 2025-26 school year and can’t wait to make a difference in her community.
Learn more about our entire Board of Education including access to meeting dates and agendas by visiting this webpage.
Teacher Cadets
Shoutout to our amazing Teacher Cadets from Lake Shore Public Schools!
These dedicated high school students (grades 10–12) completed a training program and are now serving as teacher aides in our Summer Camps — gaining real classroom experience and giving back to their community.
Each week, the cadets met to reflect, grow, and learn more about classroom management, student relationships, and instructional strategies.
Teacher Greg Taylor shared, “They’ve been instrumental to the success of our camps — developing leadership, exploring the teaching profession, and connecting with students in meaningful ways.”
Counselor Consultant Sarah Strohbeck added, “It’s hands-on career exploration. Some colleges even waive pre-student teaching because of this experience!”
Now in its 5th year, the Teacher Cadet program includes students from 11 school districts — with 9 from Lake Shore alone! We're proud of: Kendra Damm, Avery Koebke, Ellie Mitchener-Rubino, Anna Koroleva, Alaina Handy, Shawn Brosnan, Alana Rose Robinson, Evan Gattinger, Genny Zielinski, and others joining from Richmond, Anchor Bay, Fraser, Clintondale, New Haven, and L’Anse Creuse.
Special shoutout to Shawn, a returning cadet, who was recognized at the 2024 Homecoming game by a former student yelling “Mr. Shawn!” followed by a hug — a heartwarming reminder that relationships matter.
From working one-on-one with kids to leading full lessons, our Cadets are making a difference. THANK YOU for your service and dedication — we’re so proud of your growth and impact!
Athletics Website
We have built an online home for our athletic department. Our goal is to bring our athletic programs to life by sharing schedules, scores, and social media while ensuring our athletes get the promotion they deserve. Visit the Shorian Sports website for 24/7/365 access to the information you have always wanted and follow along with our sports action.
We have partnered with Kroger to help fund our athletics. Please read this letter from our Athletic Coordinator Rich Bowers.
We have finished uploading Fall 2025 schedules for Cross County, Football, Sideline Cheer, Soccer, Swim, and Volleyball! Team photos, player headshots, video feed, and featured stories are on deck to be added. Stay tuned!
We believe a balance of academics and athletics creates a well-rounded student. Students who participate in sports not only gain the benefits of living a healthy lifestyle, they also learn lessons about sportsmanship, leadership, teamwork, cooperation, respect, and knowing how to win and lose.
Connect With Shorian Nation
Email: social@lsps.org
Website: http://lakeshoreschools.org
Location: 28850 Harper Avenue, St. Clair Shores, MI 48081
Phone: (586) 285-8481
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/myLSPS/
X: https://x.com/myLSPS
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mylsps/