ST. LUCIE COUNTY — The opening of Tradition Lakes K-8 has been delayed by one week, with students now scheduled to begin classes Aug. 17 instead of Aug. 10, St. Lucie Public Schools Superintendent Jon R. Prince announced Friday.
The additional week will give teachers and staff more time to complete final classroom preparations at the district's newest school.
"I made the decision to delay the opening of Tradition Lakes K-8 by one week, and I want our families to hear the reasoning directly from me," Prince said. "After inspecting the school, I didn’t feel staff had enough time to adequately prepare it for our parents and children. More time was needed. Delaying the start for a week will ensure our students get the first impression they deserve while also ensuring no changes need to be made to the school calendar moving forward."
Prince said the decision was made to allow additional preparation time before students arrive.
"Our families have waited a long time for this school, and Tradition Lakes students deserve the very best we can give them," Prince said. "I am not willing to hand them anything less on their very first day."
The district said it will share community childcare options for families who need them during the week of Aug. 10-14.
An open house is scheduled for Aug. 14 from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. Families will be able to meet teachers and tour the campus before the first day of school.
Updates will be posted on the Tradition Lakes K-8 website and on school and district social media channels.