Nichole Meerleveld, Imagine South Lake Charter

Imagine South Lake Charter is proud to announce that third grade teacher Courtney Rector has been named Imagine Schools’ National Teacher of the Year, one of the organization’s highest honors recognizing excellence in education across its nationwide network of schools.

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Imagine South Lake marked its 20th Anniversary on Saturday, January 31,  celebrating two decades of academic excellence, strong character development, and meaningful community partnerships. While the anniversary carnival provided an opportunity for families and alumni to gather in celebration, the milestone primarily honored the school’s remarkable record of sustained success.

For ten consecutive years, Imagine South Lake, a tuition free public charter school, has earned an “A” rating from the Florida Department of Education, reflecting consistent academic achievement and growth across grade levels. The school consistently outperforms district schools in Lake County, underscoring its commitment to high expectations and student success for every student.

In addition to academic excellence, Imagine South Lake has been recognized nationally for its commitment to character development. The school has been named a National School of Character three times by Character.org, an honor awarded to schools that demonstrate an intentional and impactful focus on building ethical, responsible, and engaged students.

Imagine South Lake’s innovation in science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics has also earned the school designation as a Gold Level STEAM School, highlighting its dedication to preparing students for the demands of a rapidly evolving world. Further reinforcing its reputation for excellence, the school received the prestigious Exceptional Charter Schools NASET Distinction, recognizing outstanding leadership, programming, and student outcomes within the charter school community.

Among its most notable achievements, Imagine South Lake was named Imagine Schools’ National School of the Year in 2016, 2018, and 2025. This recognition reflects the school’s continued growth, resilience, and leadership in education at the national level.

As part of the 20th Anniversary celebration, important stakeholders were recognized for their foundational and ongoing contributions to the school’s success. The founding principal, members of the governing board, and the local Chief of Police were honored during a special ceremony. Each added a meaningful item to a commemorative time capsule, symbolizing the school’s journey over the past 20 years and its vision for the future.

“This celebration was not just about looking back at how far we have come, but also about looking ahead to the future we continue to build together,” said Jennifer Wesner, principal. “Our success over the past 20 years is a direct result of the dedication of our staff, the support of our families, and the partnership of our community.”

Imagine South Lake remains committed to its mission of educating the whole child, focusing on both academic excellence and strong character development. The 20th Anniversary Carnival served as a powerful reminder of the vibrant community that continues to make that mission possible. For more information about Imagine South Lake Charter and upcoming events, visit www.imaginesouthlake.org or follow the school on social media.

About Imagine Schools

Imagine Schools is a national nonprofit network of 49 public charter schools educating more than 27,000 students in seven states. Imagine Schools partners with parents and guardians to educate their children, providing high-quality schools that prepare students for lives of leadership, accomplishment, and exemplary character. Learn more at www.imagineschools.org.

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The Bill of Rights Institute, a prominent organization dedicated to advancing the understanding and appreciation of the U.S. Constitution and the principles it upholds, proudly announces the nomination of Jennifer Goss as a finalist for the prestigious National Civics Teacher of the Year award.

Jennifer Goss, an esteemed educator at Imagine South Lake Charter in Clermont, Florida, has been recognized for her outstanding commitment to teaching civics and fostering a deep understanding of our nation’s fundamental principles among her students. Her dedication to promoting civic education and inspiring young minds to engage in meaningful discussions about democracy and citizenship has made her a standout candidate for this coveted award.

The National Civics Teacher of the Year award is a significant honor that acknowledges and celebrates the remarkable contributions of educators who go above and beyond to instill civic knowledge and values in their students. Jennifer Goss has consistently demonstrated excellence in her teaching methods, creating an inclusive and engaging learning environment that empowers her students to become active, informed citizens.

Jennifer’s innovative approaches to teaching civics have had a profound impact on her students. Her classroom is not just a place for imparting facts but also a forum for lively debates, critical thinking, and exploration of real-world issues. Through projects, guest speakers, and interactive activities, she encourages her students to question, analyze, and form their own opinions about the principles that underpin our democracy.

“Jennifer Goss embodies the essence of an outstanding civics teacher,” said Jennifer Wesner, principal of Imagine South Lake Charter. “Her passion for civic education, dedication to her students’ success, and unwavering commitment to the principles of our Constitution make her an exceptional nominee for National Civics Teacher of the Year. We are thrilled to recognize her remarkable contributions to civic education.”

Jennifer Goss’s nomination for National Civics Teacher of the Year is a testament to her exceptional dedication to equipping the next generation of American citizens with the knowledge and skills they need to participate actively in our democracy.

For more information about the Bill of Rights Institute and the National Civics Teacher of the Year award, please visit www.billofrightsinstitute.org.

About the Bill of Rights Institute:

The Bill of Rights Institute is a nonprofit organization that is committed to educating students about the words and ideas of America’s Founders, the liberties guaranteed in our Founding documents, and how our Founding principles continue to affect and shape a free society. Through a broad range of educational programs and resources, the Bill of Rights Institute seeks to inspire a love of learning, a knowledge and understanding of American history and civics, and a sense of civic participation among students and teachers.

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About Imagine South Lake Charter School

Imagine South Lake Charter School is an open-enrollment public charter school located in Clermont, Florida serving students in grades K-8. Through innovative teaching methods and a supportive community, Imagine South Lake Charter School strives to empower students to achieve their full potential and become lifelong learners.

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The parade is not only fun for the students but the onlookers (parents and middle school students), as well. “It’s a great way to encourage reading”, says Nichole Meerleveld, Imagine South Lake Character Operations Coordinator.

Imagine South Lake Charter 14th Annual Character Parade (photos submitted by Helenice Leal)

Imagine of South Lake Charter

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Imagine South Lake Charter is a K – 8 public charter school in Clermont and a proud member of the Imagine Schools’ family. It serves over 1,000 students in the Lake County area. It has received an “A” grade from the Florida Department of education for five consecutive years. It is a National School of Character, a Gold Level STEAM school, and a 5 Star School. It has received a designation as an Exceptional Charter School from the NASET and earned the Golden School Award from the Florida Department of Education. It is proud to be named Imagine Schools’ National School of the Year in 2016 and 2018.

An application packet and more information can be found at www.imaginesouthlake.org/home/governing-board/ Applications are due to the school’s office no later than Thursday, August 16, 2019.

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