The Aurelia M. Cole Academy opened in August of 2023 with approximately 1200 students in PreK through 8th grade.

The school’s namesake, Aurelia McKinney Cole grew up in Lake County and had a significant impact on the community throughout her career with Lake County Schools. Her story is significant, especially considering she was unable to attend the school on the same site when it was a segregated school for white students (Clermont High School). Aurelia had a passion for learning, which propelled her into a remarkable career as one of South Lake's most influential educators.

She held positions as a dean of students at Clermont High School and served as principal at East Ridge High School, where in 2004, she made history by becoming the first African American high school principal in Lake County following integration. Mrs. Cole’s most memorable year as a middle school principal was the year she spent as the first principal of Clermont Middle School. She believed “we are all champions” and through that mantra she led students to academic and personal success.

“A champion is one who won’t quit. It doesn’t matter how hard life, or anything gets, a champion continues to go on and compete. Champions are winners."

Aurelia McKinney Cole

Even after her passing in 2018 due to lung cancer, her legacy continues to thrive.

The Aurelia M. Cole Academy offers students opportunities in performing arts and will provide a STEAM curriculum—science, technology, engineering, arts, and math—along with culinary, computer skills and robotics for students in grades 3rd-8th.

Additionally, the school will implement a Cambridge curriculum, laying the foundation for students to pursue the Cambridge AICE Diploma, an international college-preparatory program in high school.

“Aurelia M. Cole maintained high expectations for her students and truly cared about their success,” said Scott Voytko, the principal. “We are honored to uphold her name and her values.”