Business Details
Your Trusted Charter High School in Lake Alfred, FL
Discovery High School is a charter school expansion supported by Discovery Academy of Lake Alfred (DALA), which has provided quality education in East Polk County, Florida, for over 14 years. Our mission is to extend this excellence by offering a high school program that integrates cutting-edge educational technology and philosophy, ensuring students are fully prepared for post-graduation success. We embrace a philosophy of education for all, maintaining a diverse student body reflective of Polk County demographics, with 75% of students qualifying for free or reduced lunch. Our programs cater to both career readiness and college-bound pathways, offering personalized advising to align student goals with appropriate opportunities. With a commitment to inclusivity, we serve learners of all ability levels while upholding rigorous academic standards.Our consistent 'C' school grades reflect our dedication to continuous improvement, and our annual independent fiscal audits demonstrate transparency in operations. As a community-focused institution, we prioritize leadership development through athletics and extracurricular activities, fostering character and citizenship in every student. Our staff combines experience with innovation, drawing from DALA's proven track record to create a supportive, forward-thinking learning environment. We maintain strict safety protocols, including firearm restrictions aligned with state law, to ensure a secure campus for all. Through partnerships with platforms like NFHS Network and MaxPreps, we enhance student engagement and community connectivity.
Services
Career Readiness Programs
College Readiness Programs
Athletics Programs
Online Enrollment
Transportation Services
Highlights and features
- We offer a proven track record of educational excellence with 14 years of experience from our sister school, DALA.
- Our diverse student body reflects Polk County demographics, serving learners of all ability levels.
- We provide personalized career and college readiness programs with tailored academic advising.
- Our staff combines experience with innovative teaching methods to support student success.
- We maintain strict safety protocols and foster leadership through athletics and extracurricular activities.
Associations and certifications
- Cognia
What people say
Diverse community
Career readiness
College preparation
Technology-driven
Athletic leadership
Services
Career Readiness Programs
Our Career Readiness Programs prepare students for immediate workforce entry or two-year college/training programs. Through personalized advising, we connect students with employment opportunities and vocational training aligned with their career goals. This pathway emphasizes practical skills and real-world experience.
College Readiness Programs
College Readiness Programs equip students for four-year university admission. Academic advising matches students with colleges based on career aspirations and academic strengths. The curriculum focuses on rigorous coursework and college application support to ensure successful transitions to higher education.
Athletics Programs
Our Athletics Programs develop leadership and character through competitive sports. Student-athletes must meet academic and conduct standards while participating in volleyball, basketball, and other sports. The program fosters school spirit and community involvement through events and competitions.
Online Enrollment
Online Enrollment allows families to submit applications digitally for the upcoming school year. This streamlined process eliminates paper forms, providing 24/7 access to enrollment tools and real-time updates on application status through the parent portal system.
Transportation Services
Transportation Services operate within designated Polk County zones, providing bus routes for eligible students. The program includes detailed maps and schedules accessible via the parent portal, with limited coverage requiring some families to arrange independent transportation to and from school.
People
Darryl Jemison
Principal
Darryl Jemison leads Discovery High School with extensive educational leadership experience, overseeing academic programs and school operations to maintain high standards of excellence.
Erica Hudson
Assistant Principal
Erica Hudson serves as Assistant Principal and parent contact, managing public records requests and ensuring transparent communication between the school and community stakeholders.
Mercedes Sirmons
Athletic Director
Mercedes Sirmons directs athletics programs, enforcing student-athlete standards and coordinating sports teams while maintaining compliance with physical and participation requirements.
Adam Phelps
Teacher of the Year
Adam Phelps, recognized as Teacher of the Year, delivers high-quality instruction in English while mentoring students and contributing to curriculum development.
Nivia Rodriguez
Spark of the Year
Nivia Rodriguez, honored as Spark of the Year, supports student success through dedicated service and leadership in creating a positive school environment.
Questions
How do I apply to Discovery High School?
Applications are available online through our parent portal during open enrollment periods for the upcoming school year.
What educational programs do you offer?
We provide Career Readiness and College Readiness pathways with personalized advising for student-specific academic and career goals.
Is Discovery High School accredited?
Yes, we maintain Cognia accreditation, ensuring our educational standards meet rigorous external evaluation criteria.
What transportation options exist?
Bus services operate within designated Polk County zones; check our website for detailed transportation maps and eligibility.
How can students join athletics?
Students must complete annual physicals and consent forms through Aktivate before participating in tryouts or practices.
What meal programs are available?
We offer breakfast and lunch programs with free/reduced options available through online applications and My School Bucks payments.
