About Our School

General Information:

SCHOOL INFORMATION:

McLaughlin Academy of Excellence

Address: 800 South 4th Street, Lake Wales, FL 33853
Phone: 863-678-4233

School Hours:
7:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.

Grades: 6 - 12

About MAE

Here at McLaughlin Academy of Excellence, we cultivate a culture of excellence where students are challenged to grow academically, lead confidently, and achieve their goals.

Our History

McLaughlin Academy of Excellence proudly carries forward a legacy that began in 1964 when the school first opened as McLaughlin Junior High School. For more than six decades, the school has been a cornerstone of the Lake Wales community, serving generations of students and families whose lives, careers, and contributions have helped shape the community we know today.

The story of McLaughlin is one of growth, resilience, and impact. Thousands of students have walked its halls, formed lifelong friendships, discovered their passions, and built the foundation for their futures. Across the years, the school has remained a place where students are challenged to learn, encouraged to lead, and inspired to succeed.

As the needs of students and the community evolved, so did McLaughlin. The school expanded its programs, celebrated achievements in academics and the arts, and strengthened its commitment to providing meaningful opportunities for every student. Through each chapter of its history, McLaughlin has maintained the strong community connections and school pride that continue to define its culture.

In 2026, the school reached a historic milestone with the graduation of its first senior class, marking the beginning of a new era in McLaughlin's journey. Today, McLaughlin Academy of Excellence is recognized for its commitment to student achievement and educational excellence. Building on a rich history of service to Lake Wales and eastern Polk County, the academy continues to prepare students for success while inspiring the next generation of leaders, innovators, and lifelong learners.

OUR Mission 

McLaughlin Academy of Excellence mission is to inspire and empower our students to strive for excellence by cultivating a community of engaged and responsible individuals, ready to make a positive impact on the world. 

OUR VISION

McLaughlin Academy of Excellence is committed to ensuring every student experience high-quality instruction, unwavering encouragement and a belief-driven community that prepares them for college, career and life. 

ALMA MATER 

"From the ashes we are rising 

Hearts on fire, bold and true 

Guided by the flame of brilliance 

Excellence in all we do. 

McLaughlin, Oh McLaughlin 

Your light will never fade 

The flame of brilliance lives in us, 

In every choice we’ve made 

With honor truth, and excellence 

We rise, and we believe 

McLaughlin, our Alma Mater, 

Your Spirit we achieve. 

Phoenix strong, we keep on climbing, 

With each step, we rise and strive. 

McLaughlin, you ignite our purpose, 

With your flame, we soar and thrive."