Douglas County superintendent updates Lake Tahoe families about their schools

ZEPHYR COVE, Nev. - With a change of leadership at George Whittel High School and Zephyr Cove Elementary many rumors have been circulating around the district. Douglas County School District Superintendent Teri White has supplied a list of facts to give kids and parents an update on their schools.

Is the District closing ZCES or GWHS?
No. The District has no plans to close either school at this time.

Who is the principal of our school?
The District has hired Mr. Shawn Lear as the principal of the lake schools and his assistant principal is Mr. Sean Ryan.

How will our schools be supervised?
Mr. Lear and Mr. Ryan will each have an office at both schools. They will share supervision of both schools and work to create a supportive K-12 program and atmosphere for all students.

Why will there only be one principal for two schools?
It is the District’s desire that the educational experience for K-12 students be seamless and integrated across both schools. By having one principal and one dedicated vice principal focused on programming the best experiences for all students in our lake schools it is our anticipation that K-6 students promoting from Zephyr will be fully prepared and ready to engage in the next step of their educational experiences at GWHS.

Who can I call with questions?
You may call the Superintendent, Teri White, at 775-782-5134. Mr. Lear and Mr. Ryan do not begin their new jobs until later in August, but you may email them at slear@dcsd.k12.nv.us and sryan@dcsd.k12.nv.us.

What is going on with the grow dome?
The parent committee at ZCES has ordered two 18’ domes. The work has been approved by TRPA and installation should begin very soon.

What is the plan for the future of the lake schools?
The superintendent will be working with the new administration to assess the current state of programming and enrollment and permit the new team to create a plan to increase enrollment and improve offerings. The superintendent will then be working with the Board, at their direction, to develop a long-term plan for the lake schools.

How will communication with the community occur?
The District will work to post information on the District website and the District Facebook page. The superintendent will work with local parents and community leaders to share out information as appropriate. The District will also feed information to the local media outlets. The new administrative team has been encouraged to set up a Parent Advisory Group to help determine the best direction for our lake schools in terms of offerings and programming.