School Board approves consolidation plan, expanded programs, and campus upgrades ahead of 2027-28 school year
LAKE COUNTY, Fla. — A significant change is coming to Lake County’s public school system after the Lake County School Board unanimously approved a plan to merge Oak Park Middle School and Carver Middle School into a single campus.
The merger, which will take effect during the 2027-28 school year, is expected to bring expanded academic opportunities, additional resources, and campus improvements for students and staff.
School district leaders say the decision will allow the district to better serve students by combining two middle schools that are currently operating below capacity. The unified campus will be located at Carver Middle School and will receive renovations designed to accommodate the larger student population.
School Board Approves Long-Term Plan
The decision was approved during Monday night’s School Board meeting following months of planning, public discussions, and community feedback sessions.
Deputy Superintendent Chad Farnsworth said the district has been exploring ways to strengthen educational opportunities for students while making the best use of district resources.
District officials previously presented the proposal during a May workshop and included related projects in the district’s long-term capital improvement plans.
Renovations Planned for Carver Middle School
As part of the merger, Carver Middle School will undergo facility upgrades to support the combined student population.
According to district officials, the renovations are expected to add approximately 100 student stations and create additional learning spaces on campus.
The district plans to begin demolition work for a new media center in July 2026, with additional construction projects expected to follow.
Expanded Programs and More Opportunities for Students
School leaders believe the merger will create new opportunities that were difficult to offer while the schools operated separately.
Oak Park Middle School Principal Dr. Tammy Langley said the combined campus will allow students to access a broader range of academic and extracurricular programs.
The expanded school is expected to offer additional Career and Technical Education (CTE) opportunities, stronger performing arts programs, and more advanced coursework connected to Leesburg High School.
District leaders also say bringing the two faculties together will create greater collaboration among teachers, helping improve educational support for students.
Families Encouraged to Stay Involved
Before the vote, the district hosted several community meetings to gather feedback from parents and residents. Officials said many families supported the proposal and welcomed the additional opportunities the merger could provide.
Langley encouraged parents and community members to stay engaged throughout the transition process and contact school administrators with any questions.
School officials said they will continue working with families, students, staff, and community stakeholders as plans move forward.
What Happens Next?
The next phase of the project includes approval of design and preconstruction contracts, followed by campus renovations.
The merger between Oak Park Middle School and Carver Middle School is scheduled to officially take effect for the 2027-28 school year.
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