Lake Gibson High School families,
I wanted to personally inform you that I have accepted a new leadership position in our school district.
While I am excited to take on this new challenge, this decision wasn’t easy to make.
Being your principal has brought me great joy. I will miss the students and staff of Lake Gibson High.
Over the past 24 years, I have had the privilege of serving as a teacher, Discipline Dean, Athletic Director, Assistant Principal, and for the last decade, your Principal.
Every role has shaped me, challenged me, and blessed me in ways I could have never imagined.
What makes this moment even more emotional is that my connection to Lake Gibson began long before my career here.
I am proud to be a graduate of Lake Gibson High School and spent four wonderful years walking these halls as a student. When I add those years to my 24 years of service, I realize that nearly half my life has been spent as part of this amazing school community. Lake Gibson is not simply where I have worked — it is part of who I am.
This school has been so much more than a workplace. It has been home. It has been where I learned, grew, led, and built lifelong friendships.
While I am excited for the next chapter, leaving something I love so deeply is not easy.
I have been selected as the Senior Director of Facilities and Operations for Polk County Public Schools, and I look forward to serving our district in this new capacity. While my role is changing, my commitment to our students, schools, and community remains the same.
As I reflect on this transition, I am reminded of a quote from Winnie the Pooh: "How lucky I am to have something that makes saying goodbye so hard."
That quote captures exactly how I feel today.
One of the things that brings me the greatest peace as I leave is knowing that I am leaving Lake Gibson High School in a great place.
I’m happy to say that Elizabeth Deshazor is being promoted to serve as acting principal of Lake Gibson High School.
Ms. Deshazor currently serves as Lake Gibson’s assistant principal. She is an outstanding educator. She will continue to guide our Braves to even greater success!
I have no doubt that Lake Gibson High School will continue to be the very best high school in Polk County.
I leave with a grateful heart, tremendous pride, countless memories, and complete confidence in the future of Lake Gibson High School.
Most of all, I leave with love.
I love you all.
Once a Brave, Always a Brave.
Sincerely,
Ryan Vann