High school is where students begin turning interests into ambitions and preparing for life beyond graduation. At Incline High School (IHS), that journey unfolds in a close-knit environment where every student is known, challenged, and inspired to succeed.
With approximately 300 students, IHS combines the personalized attention of a small school with opportunities typically found on much larger campuses. Recognized as a Nevada Five-Star School, students can accelerate their education through Advanced Placement and dual-credit courses, giving them the opportunity to earn college credit, reduce future tuition costs, and begin college with credits already completed.
Learning extends well beyond the classroom. Through the school’s Personalized Learning Academy (PLA), students connect academics with hands-on projects, internships, and career exploration. Whether pursuing engineering, business, health sciences, education, environmental studies, or the arts, students gain real-world experience while exploring college and career pathways long before graduation.
That commitment to excellence extends across campus. Last year, IHS students achieved a 100% pass rate in AP: Research, Seminar, Psychology, Precalculus, and English Language & Composition classes. The nationally recognized We the People team placed 10th in the nation, while Highlander athletic teams continued to compete at the highest levels, regularly qualifying for Nevada state championships.
Creativity thrives alongside academics. A transformative renovation of the Duffield Theater, made possible by the Dave & Cheryl Duffield Foundation, added a state-of-the-art sound system, professional recording studio, and media editing suite. These facilities give students hands-on experience in music, theater, audiovisual production, and digital storytelling using industry-standard technology.
Students also benefit from strong community partnerships. Through the Incline Education Fund, the HOPA Mentor Program connects students with local professionals, while college and career initiatives, including the annual College & Career Fair, introduce students to universities, trade schools, apprenticeships, military pathways, and local employers.
At Incline High School, students don’t have to choose between personalized attention and exceptional opportunity. They learn in a school culture where students feel connected, supported, and engaged (a commitment reflected in the lowest chronic absenteeism rate in the Washoe County School District). Graduates leave with rigorous academics, meaningful real-world experiences, and the confidence to pursue whatever path comes next.
Middle school is a time when students begin discovering who they are, what inspires them, and where their talents can take them. At Incline Middle School (IMS), those discoveries are intentionally built into the school experience.
Known for its small class sizes, dedicated teachers, and supportive learning environment, IMS offers opportunities that reach far beyond the traditional classroom. Students explore future careers, develop leadership skills, and build meaningful connections with the Lake Tahoe community through hands-on, real-world learning.
At the heart of the IMS experience is the school’s innovative Exploratory Program. Every student participates in a series of nine-week STEAM and career exploration courses designed to spark curiosity, learn “life” skills, build confidence, and help students discover their strengths before entering high school.
What makes the Exploratory Program unique is its connection to the Tahoe Basin. Through partnerships with local businesses, nonprofits, and industry professionals, students tackle real-world projects that introduce them to careers shaping the region, from environmental science and technology to finance, entrepreneurship, outdoor recreation, and the skilled trades. Many of these experiences take students beyond the classroom and into the field, using the Lake Tahoe environment as a living laboratory for exploration and discovery. These hands-on opportunities connect classroom learning to real possibilities, helping students discover new interests while envisioning future career paths.
Students can also participate in the nationally recognized We the People civics program, recently relaunched under veteran educator Scott Daniels. Through simulated congressional hearings and constitutional debate, students strengthen their critical-thinking, communication, and civic leadership skills while gaining a deeper understanding of their role as engaged citizens.
By blending rigorous academics with hands-on exploration, community partnerships, and personalized support, Incline Middle School gives students the confidence to take on new challenges and the freedom to discover where their passions can lead. It’s a place where curiosity grows into confidence, and where students begin building the foundation for success in high school, college, careers, and beyond
Well, now that we’ve all had 2 weeks to accept that summer is over, it’s time to get back into the groove of the school year. This week and next week, each of the schools will host their Back to School Nights: (Note: IES already had their BTS night last night!) but the other two schools are:
IHS: Sept 4th 5:30-8:00pm
IMS: Thursday, Sept 10th 5:00-8:00pm
If you want to be “in the know” all year round, this is the time to join the parent group at each school you have a student at. The parent organizations provide vital support for our schools and are also the BEST way to both get involved and find out what’s going on and when. At Incline Elementary, it is the PTA, at Incline Middle, it’s the Jr. Boosters and at Incline High School it’s the Boosters. Check your school websites for contact information.
If you don’t have a current student in the schools, you can still volunteer! Incline Education Fund can help you find a place or contact your school of choice directly.
Incline Elementary School is hosting their Jog-a-Thon on 9/25/26. It is their biggest fundraiser and helps support opportunities like Makerspace, Art, and PE.
Incline Middle School continues to expand (enrollment is up by 23% this year) and they are refining the opportunities for students to “learn by doing” in the Wednesday Exploratory programs. This quarter’s offerings include: financial literacy, robotics, culinary, swimming, leadership, bowling, bear box beautification, environmental science with TINS, mountain biking, building and fiber arts. Middle school sounds a lot more exciting than I remember it.
Incline High School students are already thriving, the athletic teams are all off to a fantastic start and IHS will host a HUGE College and Career Fair on Sept 21st with 30+ organizations. There will be both 2 and 4 year universities and well as a number of trade organizations and local service organizations like the sheriff, fire, forestry departments.
As summer dwindles down and children shake off the last of their summertime wiggles, we are thrilled to kick off our 29th academic year at Lake Tahoe School. Opening the doors of our independent PreK3 – 8th Grade school with 241 total students in the 2026-27 school year, we pride ourselves on nurturing a close-knit community of lifelong learners. Beyond the classroom, we also have a robust Outdoor Education program that takes our students from exploring our local Tahoe surroundings and fostering lake sustainability to navigating deeper waters as they take their service and adventure learning all the way to Costa Rica in 8th Grade. These signature experiences give students hands-on opportunities to build confidence, leadership, and a deep appreciation for the world we live in, and enhance our mission to create a joyful and academically challenging learning environment that echoes the wonder of Lake Tahoe, cultivates community, and sparks personal discovery that leads to an extraordinary future for every student.
This fall, we are excited to expand our team with two wonderful new faculty members. Sydney Nagy, longtime educator and parent of one of our students, will be joining us as the 7th- and 8th-grade English teacher. Sara Litteken will also be joining our team as the new Student Wellness Coordinator, dedicated to supporting the emotional well-being of our students and developing programs that help further serve our community.
While Lake Tahoe School operates as an independent school, we have various community-friendly events throughout the school year. Mark your calendars and join us for these upcoming autumn traditions:
11th Annual High School Fair: October 20, 6:00 pm -Free. Open to the public.
Lake Tahoe School Turkey Trot: November 26, 9:00 am Registration fee: $25 pp, $90 per family of four. Proceeds go to the LTS Tuition Assistance Program.
Lake Tahoe School Winter Market: December 4, 5:00 pm – A shopping event in partnership with Tahoe Family Solutions. Free. Open to the public.
Here’s to a wonderful year of learning, growth, and community connection!
The elementary years are about more than learning to read, write, and solve math problems. They’re the years when children discover how they learn, build confidence, and develop a lifelong love of learning. At Incline Elementary School (IES), that journey is shaped by small class sizes, caring teachers, and a schoolwide commitment to creative, hands-on learning.
As part of the Washoe County School District, IES serves preschool through fifth-grade students in a close-knit learning environment where every child is known. With approximately 220 students and a student-to-teacher ratio of about 13:1, teachers personalize instruction while building the strong relationships that help children thrive.
What truly sets IES apart is its integrated STEAM approach, weaving Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics throughout the school day.
At the heart of that approach is the school’s vibrant Makerspace, where students explore robotics, coding, engineering, and creative problem-solving through hands-on projects. More than a weekly enrichment class, the Makerspace extends classroom learning by using technology and design thinking to reinforce concepts across math, science, literacy, and social studies.
Art and music are woven throughout the curriculum, helping students deepen their understanding of academic concepts while developing creativity, confidence, and critical-thinking skills. Whether illustrating a history lesson or exploring mathematical patterns through music, students learn by creating, collaborating, and making meaningful connections.
That spirit of exploration extends into every classroom, where curiosity, communication, and problem-solving are part of daily learning. Students are encouraged to ask questions, take thoughtful risks, and apply their knowledge in meaningful ways while teachers create a supportive environment where every child feels seen, valued, and challenged to grow.
Combining the personalized feel of a neighborhood school with innovative STEAM experiences, Incline Elementary prepares students not only for success in middle school but for a lifetime of learning. It’s a place where curiosity is celebrated, creativity is nurtured, and every child is empowered to discover their unique potential.
Start the School Year Safely: Back-to-School Safety Reminders
August 21, 2026 | Member Submitted
As students head back to the classroom, the North Lake Tahoe Fire Protection District (NLTFPD) is reminding everyone to use a little extra caution on our roads and around our schools.
The start of the school year means more students walking and biking, increased activity at bus stops and crosswalks, and more traffic during morning drop-off and afternoon pick-up. With more students also using e-bikes to get to and from school, it is especially important for both drivers and riders to slow down, stay alert, and be aware of their surroundings.
A few extra seconds of patience and attention can make a big difference in keeping our students safe.
Important Safety Reminders
For Drivers:
Slow down and follow posted speed limits in school zones and neighborhoods.
Watch for students at crosswalks, intersections, and bus stops.
Obey school bus signals and never pass a bus when its red lights are flashing and the stop arm is extended.
Give bicyclists and e-bike riders plenty of space.
Put phones and other distractions away while driving.
For Students & Parents:
Review and practice a safe route to and from school.
Use sidewalks and designated crosswalks whenever possible.
Stop, look both ways, and make eye contact with drivers before crossing.
Wear a properly fitted helmet when riding a bicycle or e-bike.
Stay visible, avoid distractions, and follow the rules of the road.
E-bike riders should ride at a safe speed and stay alert for vehicles, pedestrians, and other cyclists. Review the safest route to and from school before the first day.
Backpacks:
Use both shoulder straps to distribute weight evenly.
Keep backpacks light. The National Safety Council recommends backpacks weigh no more than 5% to 10% of a child’s body weight.
A Message from NLTFPD
Back-to-school safety is a shared responsibility. Whether you are behind the wheel, walking to class, riding a bike or e-bike, or dropping a student off at school, we all have a role in helping students get where they are going safely.
“A few extra seconds can make all the difference. Slow down, put the distractions away, and take the time to look for the student in the crosswalk, getting off the bus, or riding alongside you,” said Fire Chief Sommers. “Keeping our students safe is a shared responsibility, and we all have a role in making sure they get to and from school safely.”
On behalf of everyone at NLTFPD, we wish our students, families, teachers, and school staff a safe, healthy, and successful school year.
Kickoff to Kindergarten returns with free resources for young learners
August 17, 2026 | Member Submitted
Extension hosts free back-to-school family pre-K event with community partners
The new school year is already in full swing, with kids across Nevada excited for another year of learning, and the Silver State’s littlest learners are getting ready to join the fun. To help families with young children prepare for the transition to school, University of Nevada, Reno Extension is hosting its annual Kickoff to Kindergarten fair in Las Vegas. Designed for children ages 3 to 5 and their families, the event offers fun, interactive opportunities to build the knowledge and skills children need to step confidently into kindergarten.
Extension is partnering with Las Vegas – Clark County Library District and Vegas PBS to provide this free event, Aug. 22, 10:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., at the East Las Vegas Library, 2851 E. Bonanza Road. Tote bags, exploration learning kits, books and school supplies will be given out to the first 250 families.
“Families are a child’s first and most important teachers,” YaeBin Kim, Extension specialist, said. “Our goal is to help parents and caregivers feel informed, confident and supported as they prepare their children for a successful transition to kindergarten and beyond.”
Attendees can expect tools such as safety resources from the Las Vegas Metro Police Department, dental screenings by UNLV, health screenings by the UNLV School of Nursing and vision screenings by Walmart Vision Center. The event provides connections to more than 40 community organizations offering resources and services.Participants can also enjoy outdoor games, a produce market, rock painting, face painting, balloon artists and more.
Additionally, children will be able to meet Carl from the PBS KIDS show “Carl the Collector” as seen on Vegas PBS, visit the Clark County School District Book Bus and enjoy dairy treats from the Dairy Council of Nevada.
In addition to Extension’s Partners in Parenting Program, other Extension programs will be there to offer activities and information, including the 4-H Youth Development Program and other programs offering information on early childhood development, health and nutrition, youth horticulture and healthy aging.
Other supporters or participants in the event include Clark County School District Family Engagement, Early Childhood Department, Safe Routes to School and English Language Learning Departments; Anthem Nevada Medicaid; Bureau of Land Management; City of Las Vegas – Parks, Recreation and Cultural Affairs – Pop Up Recreation; Clark County Family Services Foster Care; College of Southern Nevada Early Childhood Education Lab Program; U.S. Rep. Dina Titus; Dairy Council of Nevada; DISCOVERY Children’s Museum; Family Child Care Association of Nevada; Hands Of Luvv Childcare; Healthy Living Institute at UMC; Henderson Libraries; Kirk Kerkorian School of Medicine UNLV; Little Red’s Bright Beginnings; Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department Volunteer Program; Nevada Childhood Lead Poisoning Prevention Program; Nevada Department of Early Learning and Development; Nevada PEP; Nevada State Treasurer – NVIgate; North Las Vegas Library District; Prevent Child Abuse NV; Scouting America; Southern Nevada Health District – Office of Chronic Disease Prevention and Health Promotion; Spread the Word Nevada; The Children’s Cabinet; The Kreative Minds Childcare; Tiny TLC Childcare; UNLV School of Dental Medicine; UNLV School of Nursing; Walmart Vision Center; and Walton Accelerated Learning Academy LLC.
For more information, visit the Kickoff to Kindergarten event website or email Extension Program Officer Heidi Petermeier at heidip@unr.edu. Persons in need of special accommodations or assistance should contact Paul Lessick, civil rights and compliance coordinator, at plessick@unr.edu or 702-257-5577 at least five days prior to the scheduled event with their needs.
– @unevadareno –
Photo Cutline: A preschool boy participates in a building block activity at the 2025 Kickoff to Kindergarten event. Photo by Heidi Petermeier.
The University of Nevada, Reno, is a public research university that is committed to the promise of a future powered by knowledge. As a Nevada land-grant university founded in 1874, the University serves 21,000 students. The University is a comprehensive, doctoral university, classified as an R1 institution with very high research activity by the Carnegie Classification of Institutions of Higher Education. Additionally, it has attained the prestigious “Carnegie Engaged” classification, reflecting its student and institutional impact on civic engagement and service, fostered by extensive community and statewide collaborations. More than $800 million in advanced labs, residence halls and facilities has been invested on campus since 2009. It is home to the University of Nevada, Reno School of Medicine and Wolf Pack Athletics, maintains a statewide outreach mission and presence through programs such as the University of Nevada, Reno Extension, Nevada Bureau of Mines and Geology, Small Business Development Center, Nevada Seismological Laboratory, and is part of the Nevada System of Higher Education. Through a commitment to world-improving research, student success and outreach benefiting the communities and businesses of Nevada, the University has impact across the state and around the world. For more information, visit www.unr.edu.
On July 29, the Boys & Girls Club of North Lake Tahoe announced a transformative gift from the Dave & Cheryl Duffield Foundation — including two donated buildings, renovation funds, and operational support — paired with a State of Nevada ARPA grant. Together, this support will bring the Duffield Center for Great Futures to life in Incline Village.
What’s coming:
🧸 Early Learning Center Serving infants as young as six weeks old through age five, with year-round, all-day programming — closing a long-standing gap for working families who’ve struggled to find reliable, affordable early childhood care close to home.
🎮 Teen Center Serving youth in grades 6–12 with out-of-school-time and specialty programming all year long. Early ideas include a fabrication lab, an e-gaming space, a digital journalism studio, and a café.
BGCNLT is currently in the design and development phase for both buildings, with renovations and construction expected to begin in spring 2027, and a goal of serving youth in early 2028.
“We are incredibly grateful to the Dave & Cheryl Duffield Foundation and the State of Nevada for their support, and we’re ready to carry out the important work of expanding our services to all age groups in Incline Village.” — Mindy Carbajal, CEO, Boys & Girls Club of North Lake Tahoe
“The Dave & Cheryl Duffield Foundation has proudly partnered with BGCNLT for many years. We believe supporting youth programs has had an expansive impact in North Lake Tahoe, and we are happy to be a part of their next phase of growth.” — Chris Watts, Co-President, Dave & Cheryl Duffield Foundation
With this generous support — and with community partners, donors, and Club families like you — BGCNLT will expand its capacity in Incline Village, deepen academic support and mentorship programming, and extend our reach to even more families who depend on the Club.
Lake Tahoe’s best summer days are worth protecting. A beach day, trail walk, paddle, or dog-friendly outing all depend on clean beaches, healthy forests, clear water, and shared respect for the places we all love. Those conditions are shaped by the small choices made before and during your time exploring Tahoe.
Bring reusables instead of single-use plastics
Use lake-friendly transportation when you can
Clean, Drain, Dry gear before it touches the water
Clean up after your pet so Tahoe’s dog-friendly areas stay clean, open, and welcoming.
Pick it up, pack it out, and toss it in the trash
This month’s Spotlight highlights the everyday choices and dedicated people who help Tahoe stay enjoyable, safe, and protected. From wildfire awareness and aquatic invasive species prevention to the volunteers, Tahoe Blue Crews, and interns working behind the scenes, these efforts are making a difference. Meet the stewards and discover the small actions that add up to a better Tahoe for everyone.
Nationally recognized constitutional scholars join Nevada teachers at University of Nevada, Reno’s Lake Tahoe
July 10, 2026 | Member Submitted
Summer Institute and Public Speaker Series: Free public talks featuring Vikram David Amar and Burt Neuborne highlight two-week constitutional law institute for Nevada educators
Teachers from across Nevada will gather from July 13-22 at the University of Nevada, Reno at Lake Tahoe campus for the Center for Constitutional Law’s 2026 Summer Teacher Institute, an immersive professional development program featuring nationally recognized constitutional scholars and designed to strengthen civic education across the state.
Participants will work directly with nationally recognized scholars, examine landmark constitutional questions and develop classroom strategies they can bring back to students across the state. The goal is when participants return to their schools, the Institute’s impact will extend far beyond the Lake Tahoe campus, reaching thousands of Nevada students each year through enhanced constitutional and civic education.
As part of the Institute, the Center will host two free public talks through its Constitutional Scholars Speaker Series, inviting Lake Tahoe residents, visitors, students, legal professionals and community members to unique opportunity to engage with nationally recognized experts on some of the most important constitutional questions facing American democracy today.
The Speaker Series begins on Monday, July 13, with Vikram David Amar, Daniel J. Dykstra Endowed Chair and Distinguished Professor of Law at the University of California, Davis School of Law. Amar’s talk, “How Should Power Be Divided Between the States and the Federal Government in a Changing America?” will examine the evolving relationship between state and federal authority and explore how courts, states, and federal institutions navigate questions of governance, constitutional limits and the balance of power in today’s political climate.
The Series continues on Tuesday, July 21, with Burt Neuborne, Norman Dorsen Professor of Civil Liberties at New York University School of Law and Founding Legal Director of the Brennan Center for Justice. Neuborne’s talk, “How Do the Bill of Rights and the Fourteenth Amendment Continue to Shape American Democracy?” will explore how the Constitution’s guarantees of free expression, due process and equal protection continue to shape American democracy.
He will examine the enduring relationship between the Bill of Rights and the Fourteenth Amendment while discussing how the Supreme Court’s interpretation of the First Amendment has influenced contemporary debates over democratic self- government.
Both talks will be facilitated by Rick Trachok, Executive Director of the University of Nevada, Reno Center for Constitutional Law, Senior Counsel at McDonald Carano, and Lecturer at UC Berkeley School of Law and Stanford Law School.
“One of the Center’s most important priorities is strengthening constitutional literacy by investing in Nevada’s teachers while creating opportunities for the broader community to engage with nationally recognized scholars,” said Trachok. “The Summer Teacher Institute and Constitutional Scholars Speaker Series bring together educators, students, legal professionals and community members for meaningful conversations about the constitutional principles that continue to shape American democracy.”
Located in the heart of Incline Village, the University of Nevada, Reno at Lake Tahoe campus serves as a hub for community engagement, lifelong learning and public dialogue. While the Summer Teacher Institute is designed for educators, the Constitutional Scholars Speaker Series is free and open to the public, offering a rare opportunity to hear directly from nationally recognized constitutional scholars in an intimate setting overlooking Lake Tahoe.
Event Information Location: University of Nevada, Reno at Lake Tahoe | Prim Library
291 Country Club Drive Incline Village, NV 89451
Monday, July 13, 2026
6:00–7:30 p.m.
Vikram David Amar
Tuesday, July 21, 2026
6:00–7:30 p.m.
Burt Neuborne
Both events are free and open to the public. Complimentary parking is available. Advance registration is requested through the UNR Event Calendar.
The 2026 Summer Teacher Institute and Constitutional Scholars Speaker Series are supported in part by generous grantsm from the E. L. Wiegand Foundation and the Redfield Foundation.
For more information about the Center for Constitutional Law, visit www.unr.edu/constitutional-law.
– @unevadareno –
The University of Nevada, Reno is a public research university that is committed to the promise of a future powered byknowledge. As a Nevada land-grant university founded in 1874, the University serves 21,000 students. The University is acomprehensive, doctoral university, classified as an R1 institution with very high research activity by the CarnegieClassification of Institutions of Higher Education. Additionally, it has attained the prestigious “Carnegie Engaged”classification, reflecting its student and institutional impact on civic engagement and service, fostered by extensivecommunity and statewide collaborations. More than $800 million in advanced labs, residence halls and facilities has beeninvested on campus since 2009. It is home to the University of Nevada, Reno School of Medicine and Wolf Pack Athletics,maintains a statewide outreach mission and presence through programs such as the University of Nevada, RenoExtension, Nevada Bureau of Mines and Geology, Small Business Development Center, Nevada SeismologicalLaboratory, and is part of the Nevada System of Higher Education. Through a commitment to world-improving research,student success and outreach benefiting the communities and businesses of Nevada, the University has impact acrossthe state and around the world. For more information, visit www.unr.edu.
