Kindergarten Registration is OPEN!

Welcome McCaskey Class of 2038! All children who will be 5 years of age on or before September 1, 2025 and reside in Lancaster City or Lancaster Township are eligible to apply for kindergarten for the 2025-2026 school year. APPLY NOW!

Staff Shoutout – Hadley Fout, Phoenix Academy

At the School District of Lancaster, we’re privileged to have educators who inspire, uplift, and create transformative experiences for their students. This week’s staff shoutout goes to, Hadley Fout, 7th-12th grade science teacher, at Phoenix Academy for their dedication and commitment to the success and well-being of their students and colleagues.

Mx. Fout’s passion for teaching shines through in everything they do. In just one year with SDoL, they have brought science to life for their students in truly impactful ways. Mx. Fout’s favorite part of their role is “bringing science to life,” and they’ve done so in innovative and memorable ways. This year, they achieved a milestone by introducing the first-ever dissection lesson at Phoenix Academy, giving students a hands-on experience, ensuring all the students have the same opportunities to explore science as their high school peers. By advocating for equity and access to high-quality science education, Mx. Fout is ensuring that their students have the tools, experiences and confidence to reach their full potential.

A graduate of Kutztown University (Class of 2023), Mx. Fout has quickly made their mark as a dedicated educator committed to uplifting the community they serve. They chose SDoL because of our diversity and the chance to make a meaningful impact. As an openly queer educator, they embody the values of inclusion and representation, creating a safe and welcoming space where every student can thrive and many students and staff find inspiring and empowering. Their authenticity and courage send a powerful message: everyone deserves to feel seen, heard, and valued.

 

Despite the challenge of managing three different science preps, Mx. Fout brings creativity and excitement to each lesson, ensuring students are not only learning but deeply engaged. Mx. Fout’s impact extends far beyond their classroom walls. A colleague shared:

“Hadley comes to work every day with the goal of creating an environment where everyone feels heard, seen, and loved. Hadley teaches three different preps in science and brings innovative and fun lessons that both provide our students with the knowledge and skills they need and are interesting and engaging. They are a constant light in our building and spread kindness to each person they encounter—whether they are staff, faculty, students, families, or guests. Hadley embodies the SDoL mission with flying colors and makes it their mission as an educator and as a human to encourage learning, empower students’ academic strengths, build confidence in all members of our Phoenix and SDoL community, and ensure that everyone who walks into our building feels like they belong.”

This recognition speaks to the heart of Mx. Fout’s work: fostering connection, sparking curiosity, and ensuring that every student knows they have a champion in their corner. They are an advocate for equity and inclusion, helping to build a school culture that celebrates diversity and promotes belonging. Their authenticity as an openly queer teacher offers representation that many students and staff find inspiring and empowering.

Thank you, Mx. Fout, for your dedication to your students, your colleagues, and the broader SDoL community. Your innovation, compassion, and commitment to excellence make you an irreplaceable part of our team. We are grateful for the light and energy you bring to Phoenix Academy every day. Your impact is felt in every interaction, and we are honored to have you as part of our SDoL family.

Together We Can …

Make a difference! The School District of Lancaster is looking for talented, committed professionals to join our team. Immediate openings in leadership, teaching and support staff! For more information and to apply, CLICK HERE.