Lakota Local Schools Welcomes Dr. Ashley Whitely to Lead as New Superintendent

The Lakota Local Schools Board of Education is proud to announce Dr. Ashley Whitely as the next superintendent to lead the largest suburban school district in southwest Ohio. 

The Board appointed Whitely at a special meeting on May 4 following a final round of interviews that included representatives from each stakeholder group. Whitely’s five-year contract will officially begin on Aug. 1, 2024 with several days in the interim to transition into her new role. 

“We are excited to welcome Dr. Whitely to Lakota Local Schools,” said Board President Julie Shaffer. “She brings a wealth of experience, enthusiasm for public education and a strong commitment to upholding a positive culture for both students and staff. We look forward to her ideas for continuing to carry out Lakota’s mission to provide a student-centered learning experience for every single child.”

Whitely has a proven track record of promoting professional growth and development, as well as trust and partnership within the larger community. In previous leadership roles, she has demonstrated her ability to lead efforts centered on achievement and growth for both students and staff.

With a strong belief that culture and learning go hand-in-hand, Whitely supports efforts that prioritize a positive district culture and high expectations for all learners. She has shown a deep understanding of personalized learning strategies for various learning styles, as well as approaches for building rapport with parents, community members and business partners.

Whitely also brings to Lakota an extensive background in curriculum and instruction. In her most recent position as assistant superintendent at Wyoming City Schools, in which she has served since 2018, Whitely co-developed the district’s strategic plan, “Attributes of a Learner” profile (similar to Lakota’s “Portrait of a Graduate”). She also gained significant experience in the area of facilities planning. 

Prior to her time at Wyoming, Whitely also taught English and served as the department chair at Lakota East High School for five years.

“I am honored to be the next Superintendent of Lakota Local Schools,” said Whitely. “I look forward to working with the various stakeholders to enhance instruction and nurture a positive culture so that all Lakota students can thrive and grow. Together, we will continue to hone our strengths while still having a growth mindset for change and learning.”

The community at-large is invited to a meet-and-greet reception on Monday, May 6 at 5 p.m. in the Lakota East Freshman cafeteria. The reception will take place prior to the Board’s regularly scheduled listening session and meeting.