Lindsey (Van Gerpen) Fathke of Avon was named as the K-12 Principal, taking over Kathy Blahas position. She also starts the new school year as Head Volleyball Coach for the Lady Pirates.

Fathke was a 2005 Avon High School graduate and December 2009 USD School of Education graduate. Following her college graduation, she spent her spring substitute teaching, and then accepted her first teaching position at Tabor Elementary, teaching a combined 2nd/3rd grade classroom. She spent eight years teaching in Tabor and coached volleyball, basketball, and track. The past four years she has been teaching 5th and 6th grade Science, Math and Social Studies in the Avon School District. "I love working with students and seeing their growth academically and socially. Observing all the student’s successes both in the classroom and in extracurricular activities brings me an extra sense of pride for them and our school. This year will be my fifth year in Avon, and I am excited for my new position as K-12 principal. The Avon School District’s motto is 'Expect Excellence', and I will expect that from myself, staff and students. I’m excited to see what this year will bring and look forward to working with all the staff and students," Fathke said.

Her husband, (Dan) and family live in Avon and both their children attend Avon School. Daxton will be in third grade and Addisyn will be in first grade. They enjoy doing many outdoor activities together and try to squeeze as much family time in as they can with their busy schedules. "Dan and I are both Avon alumni and enjoy helping various programs at school. I’m humbled and honored to have been chosen for the principal position and look forward to serving the school and community in this new role," Fathke said.

Congratulations and best wishes in your new role at Avon School!