Joel Lookadoo, who is completing his year as Arkansas Teacher of the Year, has been named assistant principal at Lakeside Junior. He replaces Chelsea Jennings, who was selected as principal at Sonora Middle School.
Lookadoo was a ninth grade algebra instructor for six years at Lakeside Junior High before moving to the Don Tyson School of Innovation this year. He was a math and science instructional facilitator at the DTSOI.
“Joel is coming back home,” said Lakeside principal Michael Shepherd. “We are thrilled to have him back. He knows Lakeside and the faculty knows and loves him. We look forward to having Joel back at Lakeside in the role of assistant principal.”
“I’m very thankful to Dr. Cleveland, the leadership team, and Dr. Shepherd for this opportunity. So many people in this district have helped me grow and invested in me and I’m excited for the chance to be back at Lakeside where I started my teaching career.” Joel Lookadoo
Lookadoo has served as Arkansas Teacher of the Year since July 1 of 2020. He was named earlier that year, becoming only the third Springdale instructor (Charlie Rossetti and Justin Minkel were the others) to be named Arkansas Teacher of the Year.
Dr. Jared Cleveland, Superintendent said: “Joel has a passion for student development, achievement, and a heart to serve. His vision to meet SEL needs through student and family engagement along with intentional academic focus will greatly impact the students of Lakeside. Joel is an amazing young administrator with a very bright future.”
A graduate of the University of Central Arkansas with a Bachelor of Science in Secondary Mathematics Education, Lookadoo earned a Master of Science in Educational Leadership from Arkansas State University.
