When we talk about the people who shape the daily experience of our students, Lakeesha Bair-Myers is someone whose presence is deeply felt not only by students, but by colleagues, families, and community partners alike. As a Certified School Social Worker at Reynolds Middle School, Lakeesha brings experience, empathy, and a strong sense of purpose to her work every day.
Lakeesha’s connection to the School District of Lancaster is personal. A proud McCaskey alumna from the Class of 1991, she attended SDoL schools from kindergarten through graduation. She returned to the district professionally eight years ago, beginning as a Special Education Social Worker before taking on her current role at Reynolds in 2022. For Lakeesha, serving in the community where she was raised is a commitment to giving back in ways that are personal and lasting.
“I love being able to support the school and community where I grew up,” she shares. “It gives me the opportunity to combine my personal experiences with my passion for helping others.” That blend of lived experience and professional expertise has made her a trusted resource for students, staff, and families alike.
Lakeesha especially values the opportunity to work with students across their three years at Reynolds. “Watching their personal growth and development over time is the most rewarding part of my job,” she says. Beyond individual relationships, she appreciates being part of a team that recognizes and utilizes her skills, making her feel valued as both a collaborator and an advocate.
One of Lakeesha’s notable contributions this school year has been her leadership in a growing partnership with the Riverside Camping Association. Together, they’ve helped stock care closets at Reynolds and other schools with essentials like food, clothing, and hygiene items providing more than $15,000 in support over the past year. Just as important, the partnership has opened doors for students to serve as volunteers at five community events, offering them firsthand experience in civic responsibility and community care.
“The students volunteer their time because they see how much it matters,” Lakeesha says. “They understand the value of giving back, and it’s something they carry with them beyond our walls.”
In addition to her day-to-day work, Lakeesha is involved in several boards and organizations that work toward equity and community wellness. These include the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Scholarship Fund (of which she is a former recipient), the College of Education and Human Services Advisory Board at Millersville University, Penn Medicine’s advisory board focused on health disparities, and the Abramson Cancer Center Community Advisory Board, which works to improve cancer treatment equity for communities of color.
Her commitment to mentorship also extends to the next generation of social workers. As a Field Instructor, she supports master’s level social work students pursuing careers in education helping to shape a workforce that will carry these values forward.
A colleague who nominated her noted:
“Lakeesha goes above and beyond to support students especially those experiencing family instability or mental health challenges. She leads girl empowerment groups, collaborates with partners to secure donations, provides hygiene items and care packages to families, and is always there when someone needs help. She’s not just present, she’s invested.”
Lakeesha also finds time to enjoy life outside of work. She’s a dedicated sneaker enthusiast with a collection of over 350 pairs, a passionate Indianapolis Colts fan who attends as many games as she can, and a traveler who recharges in her favorite destination Montego Bay, Jamaica.
In every space she occupies whether in school hallways, community meetings, or moments of quiet support, Lakeesha brings reliability, compassion, and a genuine drive to make a difference. Her work isn’t always seen by everyone, but its impact ripples widely.
We’re proud to have Lakeesha as part of our SDoL family, and grateful for the care she brings to every student, every family, and every day. Thank you, Lakeesha. Your work reminds us what it means to truly show up for a community.