New LG Principal Encouraging Change But Respecting Tradition

The Fayette County Record

There have been several changes in staffing at La Grange ISD this past year, and that includes a new principal of the elementarycampus.Though Dr. Regina Walker may be new to the elementary campus, she has experience in the classroom as a teacher, on the court as a coach, and in the office as an assistant principal – most recently at La Grange Middle School.

Being able to understand all these different aspects, Walker hopes to unify the staff regardless of how long they’ve been inan LGISD classroom.“What’s nice about new teachers is that they present the opportunity to effect change a bit faster than teachers who have been here for a long time and stick to tradition. But at the same time, we need to have a really good balance of that, because I don’t want to lose tradition,”said Walker.And Walker knows local tradition well. She’s a LHS graduate herself, and both her parents, Bill and Terri Wagner, were longtime LGISD educators. Bill retired this summer as LGISDsuperintendent.Typically when change occurs on a school campus, traditions can sometimes be brushed aside, but Walker plans to keep the traditions held dear while improving upon areas that need growth. She came from the middle school campus, where she was an assistant principal, so she understands the culture ofLa Grange and its expectations. With help from the admin staff that has been at the elementary previously, Walker has created new systems that will improve effectiveness both educationally and relationally.

“I walked into a pretty amazing admin team, honestly. They’ve really brought me in and shown me the ropes, they’ve helped me when I asked to make some changes here and there,” shared Walker.

“Truthfully, they’ve been up here working all summer working to make things the best they can be for our teachers and students.”

The vision that Walker and the rest of the admin team have created is ‘One Team: LEPS’, which stands for leadership, excellence, pride, and scholars. Walker plans to ensure that teachers are supported so that they can put their best foot forward for the students. With this support, teachers can be more effective and lead the students in the right direction to reach theirfull potential.