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EDUCATION

Litchfield Elementary School District swears in newest governing board member

Dr. Tara Armstead replaces Alayne Weathersby

Posted 3/25/21

Dr. Tara Armstead was sworn in Thursday, March 25, as the newest governing board member of the A-rated Litchfield Elementary School District.

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EDUCATION

Litchfield Elementary School District swears in newest governing board member

Dr. Tara Armstead replaces Alayne Weathersby

Posted

Dr. Tara Armstead was sworn in Thursday, March 25, as the newest governing board member of the A-rated Litchfield Elementary School District.

She replaces board member Alayne Weathersby, who left in January after two years of service because her family moved out the district.

Dr. Armstead has been in the field of education for more than a decade. She began as a physical education teacher and has served as a team lead, athletic coach and youth mentor.

In addition to serving as the physical education teacher at Belen Soto Elementary School in Goodyear, Dr. Armstead has also worked in collegiate and alternative education.

She holds a masters of education in educational leadership. While earning her doctorate of education, Dr. Armstead studied the importance of parental engagement.

Dr. Armstead’s child is a product of the 104-year-old, award-winning school district.

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As a governing board member, Dr. Armstead plans to utilize her expertise in education and personal experiences as a student “to bring about parental, community and student empowerment,” she said.

Maricopa County School Superintendent Steve Watson made the final selection from a list of candidates submitted by LESD officials.

“We are delighted that Superintendent Watson was able to choose from a robust pool of candidates, LESD Superintendent Jodi Gunning said. “Dr. Armstead’s extensive experience in education will give her a leg up as she begins the steep learning curve that comes with effective school board service. I’m excited to welcome Dr. Armstead to our team to partner with her in our educational excellence.”

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Dr. Armstead’s appointment completes the five-member board. She joins President Danielle Clymer and members Jeremy Hoenack, Kimberly Moran and Melissa Zuidema. Dr. Armstead’s seat will be up for election in November 2022, along with Ms. Moran’s. Ms. Clymer, Mr. Hoenack and Ms. Zuidema’s terms will run through 2024.

Litchfield Elementary School District has been lauded for educational excellence for more than a century. With 17 award-winning schools in Avondale, Buckeye, Goodyear and Litchfield Park, LESD is one of the largest employers in the Southwest Valley and among the highest-ranked elementary school districts in Arizona.

Officials pride themselves on A+ schools, excellent teachers, low administrative costs and a highly engaged community. For more information, visit www.lesd79.org.