LAKE TAHOE SCHOOL 25th Anniversary

By John Crockett

Launched in 1997 as Incline Academy, this year Lake Tahoe School will celebrate its 25th anniversary as the premier independent K-8 day school in the region.

Founded with a mission of providing an articulated and highly academic course of study, the school continues to develop successful and balanced students with a focus not only on academics but also enrichment in athletics, the arts, and service. With a dedicated faculty and recent expansions to programs and facilities, LTS is poised to thrive as an educational leader in the community.

From humble beginnings in a church basement the school moved to the current three-story facility on Tahoe Boulevard in 2002. Enrollment grew rapidly during and after the pandemic to a current student body of 235. However the teacher student ratio remains at 8 to 1 with about 20 students per grade and increased middle grade classrooms. The school also provides tuition support to 24% of students, about $1 million per year.

Fourth grade teacher and Performing Arts Coordinator Amory Bundy who has been with the school for all 25 years of its existence. “It’s exciting to be a part of the growth and see things come together,” Bundy says. “The school is always changing to support the needs of kids. I love that we offer a broad spectrum of programs and everyone has a place and can be seen.”

Now, the school’s focus is on enhancing programs, says Assistant Head of School and Director of Admissions Kris Nugent. “We want to develop great students and even better people. We provide service learning opportunities throughout the year to ensure students appreciate their learning environment and give back to their community.” A new program for middle grades this year is Winterim. Students from 6th, 7th, and 8th grade will travel to the Eastern Sierra, Washington D.C., and Costa Rica, respectively, to participate in service projects and experience the world outside their classroom. Spanish teacher Eric Harssema will lead the 8th grade group to Costa Rica. “Students will learn about sustainable farming in a cloud forest, participate in three days of community service, and work with local schools.”

As a parent of an LTS alum and two current students, Board of Trustees Chair Rebecca Kassekert feels that the school thrives because of nurturing teachers and their mission to not just educate but instill a love of learning.

“Lake Tahoe School is what it is today because of the deep dedication of staff and faculty to the students and community as well as the support of families and parents, especially Dave and Cheryl Duffield,” says Kassekert.

With the recent completion of Duffield Hall as both a gymnasium and performing space, the school can foster their connection to the community by hosting speakers, workshops, and events. A new library will be installed this summer. LTS Librarian Aly Nugent is excited to work with teachers to support their curriculum and sees the new library as a centerpiece for the school. “It’s not only a place for students to hang out and explore their interests but we can also host community literacy nights and author visits.”

Looking forward, Head of School Robert Graves knows there’s still much work to be done. “Our school community is close and supportive of each other. It’s great when you see kids from different grades walking the halls together or 4th graders reading to the kindergarten students. And the Incline community is best served when all schools, both public and independent, are strong and working together.” Learn