Cambridge International formally recognized Lake County Schools as Cambridge’s District of the Year for the 2024–25 academic year, district and Cambridge representatives told the Lake County School Board at its April 14 meeting.

The honor, presented in the medium-district category, was described by Cambridge representatives as recognition of the district’s work “to expand access to rigorous Cambridge programs, sustain or improve student success on Cambridge assessments, and advance educational opportunity in meaningful and measurable ways.” The district now has 11 Cambridge schools, a Cambridge representative said.

The award ceremony remarks credited district leaders, school administrators, educators, students and families for expanding advanced learning while maintaining student performance despite increased participation. “This award belongs to the entire Lake County Schools community,” the Cambridge presenter said.

Superintendent Carnegie and board members acknowledged the award in remarks that tied the recognition to the district’s college- and career-readiness initiatives and the Education Foundation’s financial support for new programs. Carnegie thanked district staff for expanding international- and advanced-diploma opportunities for students.

Board members and the superintendent framed the award as evidence of the district’s sustained focus on advanced-opportunity programs discussed over several years. Board discussion later in the meeting referenced the program’s importance amid state funding debates, with one board member urging continued advocacy to avoid funding cuts.

The recognition was presented during the agenda’s presentation segment; no formal board action or vote was recorded for the award itself.