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About LCS

A Legacy of Excellence.

Our mission is to empower students, teachers, and parents with exceptional academic resources for Pre-K through Grade 12, blending traditional values with cutting-edge technology in an inclusive community.

Our time-tested teaching method facilitates optimal learning for every student. We believe in educating the whole child, empowering teachers to present essential material in a way that fosters understanding, retention, and ultimately, success.

Our Purpose and Principles

At the heart of our organization lies a commitment to purpose, guided by a clear mission, an inspiring vision for the future, and core values that define who we are and drive everything we do.

Leon County Schools will be an engaging, safe, and respectful learning environment that embraces change and produces successful learners who value diversity and are conscientious contributors to our society. 

The mission of Leon County Schools is to prepare students to become responsible, respectful, independent learners equipped with the critical thinking skills necessary to compete in our global society.

  • Excellence - LCS pursues the highest standards in academic achievement and organizational performance.
  • Integrity and Personal Responsibility - LCS requires the highest level of integrity and personal responsibility for individual actions as a family member, teacher, student, and citizen.
  • Equity - LCS fosters an environment that serves all students as we strive to eliminate the achievement gap.
  • Citizenship - LCS honors the diversity of our community by working as a team to ensure the educational success of all our students and recognizes that our obligations go beyond our professional responsibilities to promote democratic principles.
  • Compassion and Respect - LCS builds positive relationships through honesty, respect, and compassion, which enhance the self-esteem, safety, and well-being of all stakeholders.
  • Perseverance - LCS promotes the inner strength to remain constant to a purpose, idea, or task in the face of obstacles. This includes dedication, consistency, and having a positive attitude.

We are committed to:

  • Providing a safe and welcoming learning environment for all students
  • Recruiting and retaining highly qualified and dedicated educators
  • Offering a diverse and challenging curriculum that meets the needs of all learners
  • Supporting the social and emotional well-being of our students
  • Engaging families and the community as partners in education
  • Utilizing resources effectively and responsibly
  • Leon County Schools will be an engaging, safe, and respectful learning environment that embraces change and produces successful learners who value diversity and are conscientious contributors to our society. 

  • The mission of Leon County Schools is to prepare students to become responsible, respectful, independent learners equipped with the critical thinking skills necessary to compete in our global society.

    • Excellence - LCS pursues the highest standards in academic achievement and organizational performance.
    • Integrity and Personal Responsibility - LCS requires the highest level of integrity and personal responsibility for individual actions as a family member, teacher, student, and citizen.
    • Equity - LCS fosters an environment that serves all students as we strive to eliminate the achievement gap.
    • Citizenship - LCS honors the diversity of our community by working as a team to ensure the educational success of all our students and recognizes that our obligations go beyond our professional responsibilities to promote democratic principles.
    • Compassion and Respect - LCS builds positive relationships through honesty, respect, and compassion, which enhance the self-esteem, safety, and well-being of all stakeholders.
    • Perseverance - LCS promotes the inner strength to remain constant to a purpose, idea, or task in the face of obstacles. This includes dedication, consistency, and having a positive attitude.
  • We are committed to:

    • Providing a safe and welcoming learning environment for all students
    • Recruiting and retaining highly qualified and dedicated educators
    • Offering a diverse and challenging curriculum that meets the needs of all learners
    • Supporting the social and emotional well-being of our students
    • Engaging families and the community as partners in education
    • Utilizing resources effectively and responsibly

Strategic Plan

A comprehensive roadmap designed to guide our district towards excellence in education over the next five years, our plan reflects our unwavering commitment to academic achievement, innovation, and community engagement. By exceeding state standards and fostering a supportive, inclusive environment, we aim to empower every student to reach their full potential. This strategic plan outlines our goals, strategies, and actions to ensure that Mountain SD remains at the forefront of educational excellence, preparing our students for success in a rapidly changing world.
 

Read the Strategic Plan

Leon County Schools serves the residents of approximately 700 square miles in Leon County. This area includes 105 square miles in the City of Tallahassee, and the cities listed below.

  • Tallahassee
  • Bradforville
  • Woodville
  • Fort Braden
  • Chaires
  • Miccosukee
  • Capitola

A high-quality education that empowers every student to reach their full potential and become a lifelong learner.

  • teacher helping student at her desk
  • ballerinas are throwing their ballet shoes in the air
  • Happy girl in sportswear resting on ground looking at camera while other girls sitting behind her enjoying talk
  • Auto mechanic working in garage
  • Schoolchildren reading in the library
  • teacher and schoolgirl using digital tablet in the classroom

Programs and Services

We offer an array of exceptional programs and services that cater to diverse student needs, fostering academic excellence, creativity, and holistic development.

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Academic Programs

  • Strong core curriculum that meets or exceeds state standards
  • Advanced Placement (AP) and International Baccalaureate (IB) programs for high school students
  • Gifted and Talented programs to challenge advanced learners
  • Special Education programs to support students with special needs
  • Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs to provide students with job-related skills

Extracurricular Activities

  • A variety of sports teams for students of all interests and abilities
  • Visual and performing arts programs, such as band, choir, orchestra, and theater
  • Clubs and organizations that focus on a variety of interests, such as academic clubs, student government, and cultural clubs

Student Support Services

  • School counselors to provide academic, social, and emotional support
  • School psychologists to assess and address students' mental health needs
  • Social workers to connect students and families with community resources
  • Speech-language pathologists to help students with communication difficulties

Family and Community Engagement

  • Strong communication between schools and families
  • Parent-teacher organizations (PTOs) or home school associations (HSAs) to provide opportunities for parents to get involved in their children's education
  • Community partnerships with businesses, organizations, and institutions of higher learning

Additional Resources

  • Before- and after-school programs
  • Summer school programs
  • English as a Second Language (ESL) programs
  • Professional development programs for teachers and staff
  • Technology resources, such as computers, tablets, and internet access
  • Safe and secure school facilities
     

Sustainable Learning for Our Future

Mountain SD is dedicated to reducing its carbon footprint and fostering a culture of sustainability within its schools and central office.

Sustainability is a core value for our district, and we strive to create a learning environment that promotes environmental responsibility for future generations.

The district has implemented a comprehensive program that includes a variety of initiatives. These include:

  • installing solar panels on school rooftops to generate clean energy
  • implementing a robust recycling and composting program to reduce waste
  • promoting the use of electric school buses for cleaner transportation
  • parterning with local farms to source fresh, locally-grown food for its cafeterias

These efforts are not only benefiting the environment, but also creating a more engaging learning experience for students. Through school gardens and outdoor classrooms, students are actively involved in understanding environmental issues and exploring sustainable solutions.

Mountain SD is committed to continuing its leadership in sustainability and inspiring other school districts to adopt similar practices.

Our Vision

Leon County Schools will be an engaging, safe, and respectful learning environment that embraces change and produces successful learners who value diversity and are conscientious contributors to our society. 

 

Our Values

  • Excellence: LCS pursues the highest standards in academic achievement and organizational performance.
  • Integrity and Personal Responsibility: LCS expects the highest level of integrity and personal responsibility from all individuals, including family members, teachers, students, and citizens.
  • Equity: LCS fosters an environment that serves all students as we strive to eliminate the achievement gap.
  • Citizenship: LCS honors the diversity of our community by working as a team to ensure the educational success of all our students and recognizes that our obligations go beyond our professional responsibilities to promote democratic principles.
  • Compassion and Respect: LCS builds positive relationships through honesty, respect, and compassion, which enhance the self-esteem, safety, and well-being of all stakeholders.
  • Perseverance: LCS promotes the inner strength to remain constant to a purpose, idea, or task in the face of obstacles. This includes dedication, consistency, and having a positive attitude.

LCS Logo with Leon County Schools in White Lettering

We Have Community.
Our district boasts the highest percentage of parent volunteers in the state.

 

We Have Heart.
We're the only district in the country with a dedicated "Squirrel Crossing Guard" at Oakwood Elementary.

We Have History.
Our district's first schoolhouse was built in 1852 and is now a beloved local landmark.

 

We Have Success.
We have a 99%+ graduation rate - a testament to our dedicated teachers and motivated students.

Hear From Our Teachers!

A smiling teacher is standing in a classroom with students sitting at their desks in the background.

Margaret Johansen, First Grade Teacher

"The parents here are so supportive, and the teachers all collaborate to share ideas and help each other out. We have a real sense of teamwork, which makes such a difference. Every day, I get to see the wonder and curiosity in my students' eyes. I feel like I'm truly making a difference, and that's what makes it the best job in the world!"

A teacher is sitting at a desk in a classroom smiling.

Susanna Park, Middle School ELL Teacher

"Walking into this district as a brand new teacher could've been intimidating, but the support I've received has been amazing. From day one, everyone has been so welcoming and helpful. They've shared their best practices, given me tips on navigating the curriculum, and even helped me brainstorm fun activities to keep my students engaged."

A teacher is standing in a classroom with students in the background.

John Pletha, High School Social Studies Teacher

"For over two decades, I've had the privilege of calling this district my home, and I can honestly say it's the most rewarding place a teacher could ask for. The students' thirst for knowledge and passion for learning about the past never cease to amaze me. Plus, the ongoing professional development opportunities keep me sharp and ensure I'm delivering the best possible education for my students."

A teacher is sitting at a desk in a classroom with a chalkboard and a bulletin board behind her.

Pashmina Arroyo, Substitute Teacher

"Subbing at Mountain View is like a breath of fresh air! Mountain View's plans are clear, concise, and incredibly well-organized. They lay out the entire day, from activities to assessments, with all the materials I need readily available. It makes a world of difference. I can confidently walk in, greet the students, and dive straight into the lesson."

We are committed to fostering a safe and supportive environment where all students can thrive.