Our Mission
We are dedicated to actively engaging all individuals in quality learning experiences that will enable them to value themselves and become responsible, productive citizens in a changing world.
Programs at the School
All teachers are trained in the components of the Middle School Philosophy. Teachers new to Discovery have pre-school training that orients them to Teaming, the use of Common Planning Time, creating a Brain-based learning environment, implementing the Advisory program, focusing on educating and meeting the needs of the whole child, and creating a positive school climate.
The school’s program and operation has been consistent with the terms of its charter. Discovery has made progress in meeting our objectives in reading, math, science, and writing performance of its students in both longitudinal data, and when compared to District middle schools with comparable populations. In addition, Discovery has made progress towards becoming a model Kagan Cooperative Learning School, and continues to implement the essential components of a “true” middle school. Discovery also continues to infuse technology into the curriculum and regularly adds state-of-the-art equipment for both student and staff use.
Discovery Academy students attend school 180 calendar days a year mirroring the Polk County School District calendar. Students follow an alternating day block schedule of approximately 90 minutes in length. Students have an advisory class, three academic blocks and one exploratory wheel block meeting daily for 420 minutes each day. Students are provided a variety of remediation programs to receive additional instruction. Remediation programs offered are, a daily tutoring class specific to the subject area of concern, computer assisted tutorial programs in reading and math, remedial reading instruction, and an Extended School Day Program. Additional extra-curricula programs include: National Junior Honor Society, Chorus, Spelling Bee, Book Bowl, Volleyball, Soccer, Basketball, Tennis, Golf, Wrestling, Flag Football, and Track.
Discovery is a school of Technology that has eight sign-up computer labs open for classroom use for multi-media productions, student electronic portfolios, research, and career education.
Academic Performance
DALA 2020-2021 School Report Card
School Grade
2018-2019: Discovery Academy is a B school.
2019-2020: School Grades were not calculated due to COVID-19.
2020-2021: Discovery Academy is a C school.
Capacity Determination
The PCSB approved the projected enrollment for the 2020-2021 school year to be 975 students.
Nondiscrimination Statement
Discovery Academy of Lake Alfred prohibits any and all forms of discrimination and harassment based on race, color, sex, religion, national origin, marital status, pregnancy, age, homelessness, or disability, or other basis prohibited by law in any of its programs, services, activities, or employment. To file concerns, you may contact the Office of Equity & Compliance in the Human Resource Services Division at (863) 534-0513.
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