WWW.LAKE.K12.FL.US LAKE COUNTY SCHOOLS PROVIDING UNLIMITED OPPORTUNITIES TO STUDENTS
PROVIDING UNLIM OPPORTUNITIES T STUDENTS LAKE COUNTY SCHOOLS AT A GLANCE LAKE COUNTY SCHOOLS WHAT: A n innovative school district serving the growing Lake County community. WHERE: Tavares, Florida WEBSITE: www.lake.k12.fl.us 1 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 06, ISSUE 09
MITED TO BUILDING FUTURES THROUGH EDUCATION AND INNOVATION Lake County Schools is a district on a mission to prepare every student for the real world, and a successful life after graduation. A strong and collaborative relationship with Lake Technical College is helping the district fulfill this goal, adding opportunities that enhance the student experience, and make future endeavours possible. 2 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 06, ISSUE 09
“We are committed to ensuring that every student has the skills they need to leave high school and get a high paying job and contribute to the workforce,” shares Superintendent Diane Kornegay.“In addition, we want to provide a wealth of opportunities for them to explore their interests and decide what they want to do when they leave us.” STARTING EARLY WITH STEM AND CAREER EXPLORATION Lake County is not waiting until high school to introduce students to the skills they will need for the future. This fall Minneola Horizon Academy is opening its doors to bring students an array of bold new learning experiences. “It is a K-8 school that will provide an aerospace program starting in kindergarten,” says Kornegay. “Students will learn to use drones along with a comprehensive coding curriculum, as part of their regular schedule.” The school will feed into the district’s aerospace high school program, building an intentional pathway from early learning to career training. With a total of 78 CTE programs spread across the middle and high schools, career exploration also begins early in Lake County. School counselors, student surveys, and campus tours help students entering middle school match their interests with opportunities and pathways. “All of our middle schools have a variety of career exploration offerings, based on interest and the needs or our local workforce,” Kornegay details. Before entering high school, students visit schools to find the program that fits with their planned pathway. “Much like you do a college tour, they’re looking at the various programs, and talking with current students who are our best ambassadors to help them determine areas of interest,” she explains. CAREER READINESS AT THE CORE Collaboration is a crucial part of Lake County’s educational model, and partnerships with Lake Technical College, Lake-Sumter State College, CareerSource Central Florida , Lake County Government, and Lake Area Economic Development 3 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 06, ISSUE 09 LAKE COUNTY SCHOOLS
4 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 06, ISSUE 09
The Right Drug for the Right Person at the Right Price VIVIO redefines drug management by using data intelligence and a transparent, adaptable model that ensures optimal outcomes at the most competitive prices. Unlike PBM models which are driven by profit, VIVIO leverages data from clinical trials, individual patient needs, and market prices to provide personalized drug therapies. Our innovative software seamlessly integrates these elements to deliver the right drug for the right patient at the right price, eliminating unnecessary middlemen and markups. Access a broader range of drug therapies, achieve substantial cost savings, and provide better care with VIVIO. Learn more at Precision Care Specialty Drug Management 40%+ Savings on Specialty Drug Spend Precision Care Drug Management 30%+ Savings on Total Pharmacy Drug Spend Precision Care Medical Drug Management 50%+ Savings on Professionally Administered Specialty Drug Spend www.viviohealth.com
As a Public Benefit Corporation, VIVIO’s mission is simple: to deliver the Right Drug for the Right Person at the Right Price. We are 100% independent and built to do what is right for employers and their members, not shareholders; valuing their responsibilities as fiduciaries and treating their money as if it were our own. Since our launch in 2016, we have expanded from a specialty only carve-out product to a full suite of solutions addressing every aspect of pharmacy benefits management including medical specialty, GLP-1s, and HIV. We are grateful for our partnership with Lake County Schools and the opportunity to serve their members. Our three core offerings include: PrecisionCare Specialty (Specialty Drug Management) Rigorous, independent clinical review of every specialty prescription to ensure the Right Drug, for the Right Person, at the Right Price. Alternatives are recommended when appropriate, and member outcomes are tracked to confirm response to therapy. PrecisionCare One (Total Drug Management) Extends beyond specialty drugs to cover the entire pharmacy benefit. In addition to rigorous clinical oversight for specialty medications, VIVIO now also manages non-specialty drugs seamlessly at the point of sale. When the pharmacy processes a prescription, VIVIO’s software automatically compares multiple discount cards, cash-pay options, and PBM wrap networks to guarantee the lowest available cost for the member with no extra work for them or the pharmacy. PrecisionCare Medical (Medical Drug Management) Management of high-cost infusions and medical therapies while prioritizing member experience and existing site of care. VIVIO confirms appropriateness and setting, then works directly with providers through our Any Willing Provider Network model, reimbursed at Medicare + 5%. Flexible sourcing options such as clear bag, white bag, or buy-and-bill help ensure fair pricing while keeping member care as seamless as possible. Results Across our book of business, VIVIO is delivering significant savings resulting in an average ROI of 10:1. We stand behind those savings with a guaranteed ROI of 2:1 on our specialty and medical carve-out programs. Plan sponsors who switch to VIVIO can expect to save 30-50% on their total drug spend. VIVIO is redefining what drug management looks like for self-funded employers. With a transparent, clinical-first model, we help organizations like Lake County Schools regain control of pharmacy spend and deliver meaningful savings while protecting the health and well-being of every member they serve, ensuring the Right Drug for the Right Person at the Right Price.
Group all help to bring the district’s vision to life. Executive Director of Lake Technical College, DeAnna Thomas recounts, “It really is a collaborative effort on all of our part. These entities are working hand in hand with the school district and post-secondary partners, to provide us with the data and information of what the future is looking like, particularly for business attraction and business retention here in the community.” She notes that for Lake Technical College the main goal is to provide high quality workforce training and contribute to economic growth and development in the region. “Having those partnerships ensures that, from secondary through post secondary, we’re offering quality programs that actually meet the needs of the employers and that these students are coming out highly skilled and ready for that real world of work.” Lake County Schools also offers a rich dual enrollment system, where students can earn certifications and 7 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 06, ISSUE 09 LAKE COUNTY SCHOOLS
EMPOWERING SMARTER HEALTH PLANS WITH HPI As a trusted third-party administrator, HPI is redefining what’s possible with self-funded health plans. We collaborate with health plan brokers and employers to deliver innovative strategies and customized solutions tailored to each organization’s unique needs and population. For over 40 years, HPI has led the way in the healthcare marketplace. Our flexible approach, entrepreneurial spirit, and unwavering commitment to quality, technology, and service allow us to deliver exceptional value to our clients. We’ve built strong partnerships with some of the most respected networks in the country, offering a range of self-funded options—from traditional network plans to cutting-edge alternatives like reference-based pricing (RBP) and high-performance networks. We work with each employer to find the right fit, ensuring both cost-efficiency and quality care. One standout example of our impact is our partnership with Lake County Schools. HPI provides district employees with a tailored medical plan and concierge-level service that delivers financial relief for both the district and its staff—without compromising care. With improved health outcomes, strong financial performance, and high employee engagement, this collaboration showcases how HPI helps organizations support their workforce. Discover how HPI can transform your health plan strategy. Visit hpiTPA.com to learn more. a Leading National TPA Creating solutions for better healthcare outcomes is at the heart of everything we do. In-house client support from implementation through renewal Tailored point solutions and a la carte programs The latest in navigation tools and concierge services Member advocacy solutions Innovative solutions, unparalleled service. That’s the HPI difference. hpiTPA.com
A LEGACY OF EXCELLENCE IN HVAC & BUILDING SOLUTIONS Mechanical Services of Central Florida, Inc. (MSI) is one of the state’s premier providers of mechanical contracting and facility services. Headquartered in Orlando, with additional offices in Tampa, Jacksonville, and Tallahassee, we employ more than 300 skilled professionals dedicated to delivering innovative, cost-effective solutions for commercial, industrial, and institutional clients. MSI offers a comprehensive suite of services, including HVAC installation and maintenance, sheet metal and piping fabrication, and advanced building automation systems. Further, as part of EMCOR Group, Inc., we have the backing of an industry-leading Fortune 500 organization. We’ve earned a reputation for our commitment to safety, quality, and long-term client relationships. Our mission is to provide the Lowest Total Ownership Cost™ through proactive service and tailored solutions. We provide mechanical services and design-build retrofit solutions customized for clients such as Lake County Schools and others, with a focus on enhancing air quality, advancing sustainability, and achieving energy conservation. With a strong track record of LEED-certified projects and strategic partnerships, we continue to set the standard for mechanical excellence in Florida. What can we do for you? 407.857.3510 | msifla.com Keeping Florida Cool, Comfortable, and Cost-Efficient At MSI, we design, build, operate, and maintain a full range of HVAC and mechanical systems— helping maximize ROI by keeping your facility productive, efficient, and comfortable. From initial install to every service call, count on MSI. Reach out today. 407.857.3510 msifla.com ENERGY SOLUTIONS AND ENVIRONMENTAL SERVICES HVAC INSTALLATION AND MAINTENANCE SUSTAINABLE DESIGN AND CONSTRUCTION LAKE COUNTY SCHOOLS
college credits for free, while still in high school. “Something that we’re very proud of, is our LakeWorks partnership with Lake-Sumter State College, which is that additional step,” says Thomas. “I often times refer to the educational path as the career super highway. There’s lots of on and off ramps, and some students are going to get off on one ramp and stay there, and others are going to jump back on and off and really build that skill set as they move along.” TECHNOLOGY IN THE CLASSROOM As a one to one Chromebook district, Lake County Schools is aware that technology has become a permanent part of learning. Kornegay conveys, “We teach students as early as kindergarten how to access a variety of resources. Students develop by the time they’re in third grade some critical technology skills, whether it’s clicking and dragging or actual manipulation of tools within a particular software 10 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 06, ISSUE 09
system. It’s heavily embedded in what we do.” Kornegay underscores that this technology never replaces teachers, it only assists them with the delivery and assessment of core instruction and related interventions. Supporting teachers is a priority in Lake County, a PLC (Professional Learning Community) at Work district. “Teachers meet at least once a week, to collaborate around essential standards and skills that students need to reach proficiency,” she depicts. “We have four questions that we address with every professional learning team.” 1. What do we want all students to know and be able to do? 2. How will we know each student learned it? 3. How will we respond when a student doesn’t learn it? 4. How will we extend the learning for students who have not yet demonstrated proficiency?” 11 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 06, ISSUE 09 LAKE COUNTY SCHOOLS
LEADING THE WAY IN EMPLOYEE WELLNESS Together over the last 14 years, Lake County Schools and Premise Health have worked hand-inhand to prioritize the health and wellbeing of every district employee.Through this long-standing partnership, the district operates four wellness centers that make exceptional healthcare an everyday reality for its staff. This innovative approach removes common barriers such as long commutes, extended wait times, and high costs, bringing trusted, high-quality healthcare directly to the Lake County community. By making care accessible and personal, the district ensures that ESI-eligible employees, from teachers and bus drivers to custodians and administrative staff, can address their health needs quickly, confidently and effectively. This collaboration reflects a commitment to proactive healthcare, making a difference in the lives of those who educate tomorrow’s leaders. Employees have convenient access to primary care, sick care, women’s health, wellness programs, and virtual services. This support helps avoid unnecessary emergency room visits and hospital stays, allowing them to focus on both their wellbeing and their vital work. In addition to better care, Lake County has saved employees nearly $650,000 in the past year. This investment is a clear testament to the school’s commitment to helping the community get, stay and be well. Visit premisehealth.com to learn more. 85 14% $3.2M Net Promoter Score fewer inpatient hospital admissions in healthcare savings
13 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 06, ISSUE 09 LAKE COUNTY SCHOOLS
Lake County Schools has also begun incorporating an AI platform called Magic School. This tool helps educators to generate lesson plans, formative assessments, and intervention materials based on the standard being taught. It not only helps teachers track whether students have mastered a standard but also creates additional lessons or assessments when students need more support. “It’s helping to create resources for the teachers, and it has been a major time saver while enhancing our work and supporting teacher collaboration,” says Kornegay. BUILDING FOR GROWTH AND OPPORTUNITY Lake County is seeing steady growth, which means the district must continue adding classrooms and updating older schools keep up with the needs of students. Since the state no longer provides capital outlay funding, the district depends on local sales tax dollars to renovate schools, while impact fees from new developments are used to build additional student space in growing neighborhoods. armouredone.com | Info@armouredone.com | 315.720.4186 At Armoured One, we’re a team of former SWAT, military, and security experts working to protect schools and businesses from active shooters. Since 2012, we’ve focused on real-world training, security assessments, and shooter-tested glass and film—all made in the USA. Our mission is simple: Save lives with the best tools and knowledge available. AMERICA’S STRONGEST WINDOW FILM TRUSTED BY SCHOOL SECURITY LEADERS NATIONWIDE SHOOTER-ATTACK ASTM F3561 TESTED 14 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 06, ISSUE 09
“Our board was concerned about the debt that they were incurring, so several years ago, they adopted a pay as you go process. That slowed down the building of our new construction, but we’ve been able to maintain a robust five-year capital plan while decreasing our debt,” expands Kornegay. Currently, two new schools are opening, including a replacement for a century old building and the new Minneola Horizon Academy, along with several renovation and expansion projects across the county. The district has also celebrated major academic milestones in recent years. Kornegay touts, “We are now designated as an “A” rated district. That has not happened in Lake County since 2008. I would say that our focus on collaborative learning for both teachers and students has been instrumental in helping us to get there. We’re super proud of that, it’s something we’ve been working very hard to achieve.” She credits graduation rates that have climbed from 77 percent in 2017 to 93 percent today, as well as students earning almost 5000 industry certifications Products issued by National Life Insurance Company® | Life Insurance Company of the Southwest® National Life Group® is a trade name of National Life Insurance Company (NLIC), Montpelier, VT, Life Insurance Company of the Southwest (LSW), Addison, TX and their affiliates. Each company of National Life Group is solely responsible for its own financial condition and contractual obligations. Life Insurance Company of the Southwest is not an authorized insurer in New York and does not conduct insurance business in New York. National Life Group and its representatives are neither endorsed by nor affiliated with any government entity or school district. No bank or credit union guarantee | Not a deposit | Not FDIC/NCUA insured | May lose value | Not insured by any federal or state government agency Guarantees are dependent upon the claims-paying ability of the issuing company. TC8233942(0825)1 Cat No 108429(0725) How can we serve you? Scan to visit RetirementHomeroom.com One partner for retirement peace of mind. 30+ years of your trust. 2,500+ Lake County Schools employees served. 15 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 06, ISSUE 09 LAKE COUNTY SCHOOLS
this year, as playing a role in this top-notch rating. “That is really a testament to not only what’s happening instructionally in our classrooms, but also our strong partnerships, like the work with Lake Tech that is providing so many opportunities for kids to find their place and to stay in school.” A FLEXIBLE APPROACH The Lincoln Park Education Center is one of the district’s most unique projects. The idea for this new facility emerged after the COVID pandemic, when many high school students began arriving late, leaving early, or skipping school altogether in favor of fulltime and parttime jobs. “For many kids, the traditional high school experience just doesn’t meet their needs anymore. It’s not what they’re looking for,” says Kornegay. Recognizing this, district leaders reimagined what a non-traditional high school could look like. The solution was the renovation of a former WORKERS’ COMPENSATION AUTO LIABILITY GENERAL LIABILITY PROPERTY MANAGED CARE LOSS CONTROL PROPRIETARY RMIS www.CCMSI.com DELIVERING WHAT MATTERS MOST THIRD PARTY CLAIMS ADMINISTRATION 16 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 06, ISSUE 09
elementary school, and the creation of a flexible day program where students can choose morning or afternoon sessions that fit around their work schedules while still receiving in person instruction. “There are 70 kids currently enrolled,” Kornegay reports. Once the building renovations for Lake Technical College are complete, we plan to open enrollment for the afternoon or evening classes allowing students the opportunity to dual-enroll in a workforce program while earning their high school diploma.” Lake Technical College has joined the initiative by co-locating workforce training programs on the same site. This allows students to earn a high school diploma while also dual enrolling in technical programs. Thomas highlights that the model not only benefits high school students but also expands access for adults in the southern part of the county, who previously had to travel long distances for training. LEARNING FOR LIFE For Lake County Schools, the goal is to ensure every student receives high quality instruction, and achieves mastery of skills that will carry them into the future. Too often in schools, we focus on the teaching of the standard. However, it is vitally important that we shift the focus on students are learning, making sure that every student is learning the standard being taught,” Kornegay reflects. “We are tracking student progress to ensure that they are able to achieve those goals, standard by standard, student by student, because that is what’s going to help them to find success whether they plan to go to college, the military and or the workforce.” When it comes to education, the rewards are often personal. “The most rewarding part is watching students literally change their lives in front of our eyes,” says Thomas.“Helping them find that pathway, reach their goals, and become self-sustaining is really the highlight of the work that we do.” 17 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 06, ISSUE 09 LAKE COUNTY SCHOOLS
PREFERRED VENDOR/PARTNER n VIVIO Health www.viviohealth.com Founded in 2016, VIVIO is a Public Benefit Corporation built to deliver the Right Drug for the Right Person at the Right Price. We serve self-funded employers nationwide with independent, clinical-first solutions across specialty, medical, GLP-1, HIV, and full PBM replacement, driving meaningful savings while protecting member health and outcomes. n HPI www.hpitpa.com HPI is a forward-thinking, national thirdparty administrator of self-funded health plan solutions with over 40 years of experience. Our entrepreneurial spirit, flexible approach, and personalized service has helped us serve clients of all sizes across all industries, delivering novel strategies that make the most of every healthcare dollar. n MSI (Mechanical Services of Central Florida Inc) www.msifla.com Mechanical Services of Central Florida (MSI) is a full-service HVAC mechanical contractor with offices in Orlando, Tampa, and Jacksonville. MSI specializes in Commercial HVAC Services, Commercial/Industrial installations, piping and duct fabrication and building automation design and installation systems featuring brands like Alerton, ALC, Trane, and more. n Premise Health www.premisehealth.com Premise Health serves large employers, health plans, unions, and tribes with convenient access to its advanced primary care model and 30+ types of care. For millions of members across 800 wellness centers in 46 states and Guam, Premise’s mission is to help people get, stay, and be well. n Armoured One www.armouredone.com Armoured One provides expert-led security assessments, ASTM F3561-tested shooter attack glass and film, and active shooter training designed for K-12 schools. Headquartered in Syracuse, NY, with teams across the country, we’re committed to preparing schools with proven solutions that strengthen vulnerabilities and improve emergency readiness. Contact us today to connect with an expert and take the first step. n National Life Group www.nationallife.com National Life Group has been keeping promises since 1848, providing innovative financial solutions and peace of mind for families across the United States. Independent in spirit and grounded in Main Street values, we put people first, doing all we can to ensure trust, stability, and protection now and for generations to come. n CCMSI www.ccmsi.com CCMSI is a national third-party administrator for property and casualty programs specializing in workers’ compensation, liability, and property claims management. We attract top industry talent and prioritize meeting client’s goals and expectations with innovative solutions, advanced technology, and tailored approaches to claim services, loss control, managed care, and RMIS services. n C & W Environmental Services LLC CWEnviroLLC@aol.com C & W Environmental Services, LLC is a comprehensive site development company based in central Florida. We specialize in Demolition, land clearing, grading and infrastructure development, ensuring projects are sustainable, efficient and completed on time. 18 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 06, ISSUE 09
WWW.LAKE.K12.FL.US WWW.BUSINESSVIEWMAGAZINE.COM AS FEATURED IN BUSINESS VIEW MAGAZINE Lake County Schools
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy MTI5MjAx