Principal Message

Lakes Principal Ray Kurtz

Dear Lancer Families, 

Spring is in full bloom at Lakes High School, and with it comes a season of learning, leadership, and Lancer pride. As we proudly serve the communities of Lakewood and Joint Base Lewis-McChord, I want to thank you for being an essential part of what makes our school such a vibrant and caring place for students to grow. 

We’re excited to share important updates about our 2025 CPSD Summer School programs. While this year’s offerings are more limited due to state and federal funding reductions, high school students in grades 11 and 12 who are credit deficient—or seniors in need of graduation support—are eligible to register for up to two credit recovery classes. Registration closes May 15, and counselors have already connected with families to discuss options. Classes will run June 23–July 11 (no school on July 4), and students will receive free bus transportation, school supplies, a morning snack, and lunch. 

April is also filled with opportunities to honor and uplift members of our community. We are celebrating the Month of the Military Child and invite all students and staff to wear purple on April 23 for Purple Up! Day in recognition of our military-connected students and the strength they show every day. 

We also give a heartfelt shout-out to our school volunteers during Public School Volunteer Week (April 21–25). Your time, energy, and care help our students thrive. If you're interested in volunteering, please visit the Volunteers webpage on the CPSD website or call our main office for more information. 

Looking to give back to the broader community? Join us on Saturday, April 26 for Parks Appreciation Day, where you can earn volunteer hours while helping clean up local parks in Lakewood. 

In celebration of School Library Month, I encourage all our students to dive into a new book and explore the many resources our library has to offer. Libraries are not just places of learning—they’re gateways to creativity and imagination. 

April also brings National Student Leadership Week, a time to highlight the powerful role our students play in shaping school culture. At Lakes, we deeply value student voice and are continually inspired by the leadership our students demonstrate across campus. 

Speaking of leadership and excellence, congratulations to our Lakes Hip Hop Dance Team, who brought home the 3A State Championship title! We are equally proud of their coach, Deb Yearsley, who was named Coach of the Year. What an incredible accomplishment—way to represent, Lancers! 

Finally, a reminder about upcoming testing: 

  • Tech Prep Testing – April 7–8
  • WCAS Science Exam (11th Grade) – April 10–11
  • ELA SBA (10th and select 11th) – April 14–18
  • AP Exams – May 5–16
  • Math SBA (10th and select 11th) – May 15–22

Please ensure your student brings their charged CPSD laptop and charger daily. 

Thank you for continuing to support our students and staff. It’s a great day to be a Lancer! 

With pride, 

Ray Kurtz
Principal, Lakes High School