The senior class at Lakeview Academy looked ready for their moment to shine as the 2018-19 academic year began Tuesday, Aug. 21, with a convocation in the gym.

But these students at the private, college preparatory school in Gainesville expressed a variety of reasons for their excitement to get the school year started.

“I think I’m excited about the fact we get to check out for lunch,” said Nanditha Rajini, 17. “It’s going to be a pretty fun year.”

Her friend, Emma Jones, 17, said she was looking forward to the big events the year has to offer.

“I’m excited for all the sports games, homecoming and prom,” she added.

Adam Cottrell, student council president, is eager to lead his class and make it the best year of their lives.

“It’s a tremendous honor (to be president),” he said. “This is a great school. I’m blessed … to represent this great community.”

The seniors are also setting an example for other high schoolers, as well as the students in elementary and middle levels at Lakeview.

State Rep. Matt Dubnik, R-Gainesville, was in attendance for the convocation to support his two young boys who are in first and third grades.

Dubnik is a Lakeview alum and said the school’s growth over the past 30 years has been extraordinary.  

“Just to see the growth in the faculty, both in number and in quality, and the buildings, both in number and in quality — it’s fun to come back,” he said.

About 580 students are enrolled at Lakeview this year, according to John Kennedy, head of school.

The convocation included a rendition of “Pomp and Circumstance” played on trumpet, a prayer, a singing of the national anthem and a signing of the honor code.  

“It’s great to see the students again,” Kennedy said. “We’re ready. It’s a neat way to start.”

While there are goals and aspirations that change from year to year at Lakeview, Kennedy said there is one constant that remains priority No. 1: “The safety of all our children.”