Penn Medicine Park came alive this morning as the School District of Lancaster gathered for our annual All Staff Meeting, marking the official start of the 2025–26 school year. Under sunny skies and a stadium full of energy, colleagues reunited, new faces joined the team, and we set our collective sights on the year ahead.
The program began in cinematic style with the trailer for Brave the Dark playing on the stadium’s giant video boards. Then came one of the most unforgettable entrances in All Staff Meeting history. Keynote speaker Nate Deen of the Stan Deen Foundation roared into the stadium in a bright red Camaro to the beat of “Eye of the Tiger,” circling in from the center field gate before stepping onto the stage. His message set the tone for the morning, reframing the idea of an “influencer” away from likes and followers to the lasting impact educators make in everyday interactions with students.
Emcee Michael Fuller of WGAL News 8 kept the program moving, introducing the cast of McCaskey’s award-winning production of The Wedding Singer, fresh from a historic sweep at the Hershey Apollo Awards. Their performance and highlights reminded us of the power of creativity, teamwork, and student voice.
The celebration continued with a welcome from our school board, leadership introductions, and recognition of new staff across the district. Special applause went to those marking milestone years of service, from five to forty years, including Michael Slechta (34 years), Lisa Wolf (36 years), and Debra Rye (42 years), whose commitment has shaped generations of learners.
Superintendent Dr. Keith Miles delivered a powerful address. Drawing on a personal story from a recent community event, Dr. Miles reminded everyone that influence is found in the small but meaningful moments when a student recognizes you in the crowd, when a quiet word changes someone’s day, when your presence creates a sense of safety and belonging.
He outlined three focus areas for the year:
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Fostering Belonging – Making sure every student feels valued, seen, and safe the moment they step into our schools.
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Closing achievement gaps – Lifting every learner through equity-driven work, teamwork, and high expectations for all.
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Providing the resources students need to thrive – Ensuring both students and staff have the tools and supports necessary for success.
Dr. Miles encouraged staff to see themselves as influencers in the truest sense people who shape lives through care, consistency, and creativity. His call to action was to greet colleagues with warmth, learn students’ names, and choose connection even in challenging moments.
As staff began to leave the park, the sense of purpose was unmistakable. In just a few days, our classrooms, hallways, and buses will be filled with the voices of students. Today was a reminder that every single one of us, no matter our role, has the power to influence the future, one moment at a time.
Welcome back, SDoL. Let’s make 2025–26 a year defined by the influence that matters most by helping every student feel they belong, achieve their potential, and know they have someone in their corner. For more photos, visit us on Facebook.