Lake Park Elementary School has been named a 2026 Georgia Military Flagship Award recipient by the Georgia Department of Education. A ceremony was held at the school, April 20.

Col. Matt McKinney said he’s proud to have a child in the Dougherty County School System and this award is a testament to the academic culture and dedication of the educators to go above and beyond for military members and their families.

“Today is a great day at Lake Park Elementary. The word flagship from the days of sailing ships in the 1600s described a warship that carried the admiral’s flag and signaled to the fleet which ship was the leader,” McKinney noted.

McKinney added, “As the first school in Dougherty County to earn this coveted award, you are leaders and we are proud to stand with you, celebrate you, and cheer you on as you continue to do amazing things for the families and students associated with our military. Thank you and Congratulations.”

Kenneth Dyer, superintendent, Dougherty County School System, commented, “This recognition is not simply a title; it is a reflection of a culture. A culture that understands service, honors sacrifice and embraces the unique strengths and needs of military-connected students and their families. At Lake Park, that commitment is evident. It is seen in the intentional ways you support transitions for military families, in how you build belonging for students who may have attended multiple schools in a short span of time, and in how you ensure that every child feels seen, supported and valued.

The award was presented by Rachale Lavoie, military student and family specialist, Policy and External Affairs, Georgia Department of Education.

“It is an honor to celebrate Lake Park Elementary School, the first in its district to receive the Military Flagship School award. This is a competitive award that recognizes intentionality, deliberate effort and care to create a school community that honors military families, strengthens belonging, supports every child through transition, and fosters a collaborative and connected learning environment,” she said.