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Lakota Local School District

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From the Superintendent

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Welcome to Lakota Local Schools! 

Smiling woman with long blond hair and colorful suit coat

Welcome back for the 2024-2025 school year!  I am thrilled to be your new superintendent and to embark on this collective pursuit of educational excellence with you all. As I step into this role, I am deeply inspired by the strong sense of community and togetherness that can define our district.

Mother Teresa once said, “I can do things you cannot, you can do things I cannot; together we can do great things.” Together, we stand at the threshold of a new academic year filled with limitless possibilities. Our unity is our strength, and it is through collaboration and mutual support that we will nurture an environment where every student can thrive. 

I have spent the summer meeting with district and school leaders, staff, parents and other members of the Lakota community to learn as much as I can about our district. I am certain that together, WE can achieve excellence for our students, for our staff, and for our community.

Together, WE can ensure that Lakota’s mission statement, “Everything WE do is designed to provide a future-ready, student-centered learning experience for every single child,” resonates through our work. 

Learning is a process, and we must partner to support all of our students from the moment they enter our doors until they cross the graduation stage. Our students need to understand that they are seen and heard, and they need to know that they belong in our school community. An integral part of this is helping our students understand how to harness their learning styles and interests so they can strategize and utilize tools they can use to boost their learning and understanding. Together, WE can support our students so they can grow and meet their potential.

One of my first goals for the new year is to re-energize our school district by building trust and a positive school culture throughout Lakota. This will take time and effort on all of our parts. By working hand in hand together, WE can create a nurturing environment where everyone feels valued and empowered and that fosters inclusivity, kindness and respect. Together, WE can celebrate our diversity, our achievements and the unique contributions each member of our community brings to the forefront.  

Together, WE can excel. I will set high expectations for our staff and students and myself. I will be transparent as I work to create a clear action plan that will carry this district forward, always with our students’ learning, growth and achievement at the forefront. Together, WE will dream the next iteration of ourselves.

During our first semester, I want to meet with as many members of the Lakota community as possible to listen and learn. Together, WE can define what we believe. While we must continue to grow and adapt to the changing demands of education, I also want to keep the rich traditions of Lakota Local Schools. If we haven’t met yet, I am looking forward to meeting you at one of our upcoming listening sessions. Please check our website for the latest schedule. Together, WE can achieve great things for Lakota.

As we embark together, I am committed to listening to your insights, collaborating closely with all stakeholders, and ensuring that every decision reflects our shared commitment to excellence because together, WE can [. . .].

With gratitude and excitement for the future,

Dr. Ashley Whitely
Superintendent/CEO