Lakota Schools | District Communication

Today we shine 🔦the spotlight on Tonya Weber!

After 25 years with Lakota, Hopewell Junior teacher Tonya Weber is retiring, reflecting fondly on a career filled with growth and meaningful relationships. “Watching my students grow in confidence and find their voice has been so rewarding, and working alongside incredible educators has shaped not only my teaching, but who I am,” Tonya shared.

Now she’s looking forward to making memories with her grandson (and another grandchild arriving this September!), traveling the world year‑round, and enjoying time for reading, volunteering, and boating. Enjoy your next chapter!💙📚✈️

🎉 Science Class Dismissed—Congrats, Tim Kessler! 🎉

After 29 years at Lakota, Tim Kessler is retiring from teaching science at Lakota West and West Freshman. One of his favorite memories was how they supported every new head coach at Lakota West right before his or her first game with things like missing vans, fake lineup changes, offices relocated to dugouts, and team bats taped together. “Those moments of support and humor are what made Lakota feel like family,” Tim shared.

Now he’s ready to swap test tubes for tackle boxes and trail maps as he looks forward to fishing and visiting national parks. Thanks for everything, Tim—enjoy the adventure ahead! 🧪🎣🏞️

🎉 It’s Welcome Wednesday! 🎉

We’re rolling out the red carpet for these incredible new team members joining the family! ❤️🤍🖤 Help us celebrate their arrival with a round of applause to show them what makes Lakota so special! 👏👏👏

❤️ Dayna Garver - Intervention Specialist, Liberty Jr. (top left)
🤍 Natalie Hamilton - Intervention Specialist, Liberty Jr. (top right)
🖤 Kelly Mumbach - Psychologist, several schools (bottom left)
❤️ Andrew Rivera - ESL Teacher, Ridge Jr. (bottom right)

We’re so glad you’re here! 🤩

✨ Celebrating Tammy Peters! ✨

After 24 years with Lakota, Tammy is retiring from being a 1st grade teacher at Shawnee ECS, where she found daily joy in watching her students grow academically and as people. “Seeing their excitement when they read their first book independently, solve a problem on their own, or show kindness to a classmate are the moments that stay with me the most—it’s incredibly special to be part of their journey,” Tammy shared.

As she begins this next chapter, Tammy is looking forward to slowing down, enjoying flexibility, spending more time with her granddaughter, and heading to the beach. Thank you, Tammy, for the love, care, and impact you’ve given to so many students and families! 💙📚🏖️

🎉 Turning the Page to New Chapter—Congratulations, Kathy Downs! 🎉

After 18 years with Lakota and 38 years in education, Kathy Downs is retiring after leaving her mark across Creekside ECS, Liberty ECS, Wyandot ECS, and Independence Elementary.

Kathy favorite memories include helping open the Wyandot library and turning it into the true heart of the school through creative, student‑centered programming. From writing books and Readers Theater to unforgettable book fairs that even impressed the president of Scholastic, Kathy made learning come alive for countless children.

Now she’s excited to explore life beyond the classroom—traveling more (starting with New England this fall!), spending extra time with her grandchildren, and seeing what new opportunities await. 💙📚✈️

We're curious 🤔: Have you bounced full speed into summer break or are you still slowly sliding into your summer routine? Leave us a comment to share the best part yet!

From the looks of it, these Heritage Firehawks bounced right into break. Miss our students' smiles already! 😢

It might be summer, but there are still BIG things happening for our students! 🤩🥇

Please put your hands together for Lakota West runner Saniya Taylor, who earned the top spot on the podium for the 400-meter race at the OHSAA Track & Field state championship over the weekend! 👏👏👏👏👏👏

Way to go, Saniya! Keep running toward your dreams and whatever that next goal might be! 🏃‍♀️

👏👏 Can we get some applause for retiree Lisa Sizemore?

After 35 years with Lakota, Lisa is retiring as a beloved 2nd grade teacher at Wyandot ECS. She cherished teaching so many wonderful children, partnering with families, and working alongside fantastic colleagues—all with the shared goal of helping little learners face life with confidence and kindness.

While she has loved teaching children to read, write, and count, Lisa is excited to discover what life looks like without daily classroom responsibilities.

Thank you, Lisa, for your heart, dedication, and lasting impact on generations of students! 💙📚