LAKEPORT, Calif. — Students in grades fifth through 12th across Lakeport Unified School District participated in school redesign input sessions last week, offering insight into what they want their future school experience to include.

Officials said this is an essential step in shaping the future of teaching and learning in the district. 

These sessions asked students to share what they want their school experience to look and feel like, ensuring that the learner voice is central in the district’s long-term improvement work.

Students shared that they are looking for expanded career technical education, or CTE, and job-based learning opportunities, more diverse food options, and learning environments that reflect why they come to school.

“Listening to our students’ input truly grounds this work in what matters most,” said Superintendent Dr. Matt Bullard. “Their feedback affirms that they want rigorous learning connected to the real world, caring relationships, and a school experience that prepares them for life beyond graduation.”

The student engagement sessions are part of Phase II of the school redesign process. Phase I established the district’s core values, guiding principles, and a portrait of a graduate.

With the data from the students, Lakeport Unified will identify priority design areas over the next several months. Recommendations will go to the board in spring 2026 to support a fall 2026 launch of pilot redesign efforts.

Lakeport Unified’s redesign work is grounded in the belief that every learner must have opportunities to thrive personally, academically and socially. While the district maintains high graduation rates, it recognizes the urgency of improving literacy and numeracy outcomes and reimagining learning experiences.

The district said its core values — accountability, community, creativity, equity, growth/improvement, integrity, service and well-being — form the foundation for decision-making and daily practice. These values are operationalized through five guiding principles, including building belonging and trust, understanding each learner, connecting learning to real-world purpose, learning from the past and maintaining high expectations with responsive supports.

By summer 2026, Lakeport Unified will synthesize its learning into a “Bridge to 2026” strategic plan and begin preparing design teams for implementation. Pilot redesign initiatives will launch in fall 2026, beginning with small, measurable tests of change before scaling districtwide.

Lakeport Unified said it is committed to designing schools with students, not just for them.

Officials said last week’s student input sessions reaffirm the district’s dedication to listening to learners, elevating community voice, and shaping a future where every student experiences meaningful, engaging and equitable learning.