WMVO Good Times Great Oldies
Danville School District is undergoing a transformative shift in its athletics department. Jason Snively, the school’s Superintendent is spearheading this change. The district will soon have a dedicated full-time athletic director, Jill Lyons, to enhance support for coaches and athletes. Lyons, previously a softball coach and elementary teacher, will transition to her new role on August first, focusing solely on athletics. This move aims to improve communication and support within the district’s sports programs. The shift is timely, as the district’s softball team has already kicked off their season.
Below is a statement from Danville Local Schools regarding this transition, this statement was posted to the District’s Facebook Page
In an effort to strengthen academic, athletic, and social-emotional support for students, Danville Schools is implementing a restructuring plan that will enhance leadership roles and better serve the needs of students, teachers, and coaches.
Athletics plays a vital role in Danville’s school culture, but ensuring the long-term success of the students, district and the community requires a well-rounded approach that supports the “Whole Child.” This restructuring will allow for a more focused approach for administrators and counselors to support the social emotional needs and student well-being, reinforcing the district’s commitment to high expectations in all areas of student life.
A key part of this plan includes eliminating the responsibility of the school counselor playing a major role in creating the master academic schedule and guiding students in courses as they prepare for college and/or careers. This responsibility often took the counselor way from supporting the social emotional needs of the students. The academic guidance and scheduling will now be the responsibility of Devani Adam (Dean of Students). With that, the Dean of Students will no longer be responsible for leading and managing the Athletic Department. Jill Lyons will take over August 1st as Danville’s new full-time Athletic Director (AD). This position will be dedicated solely to athletics, ensuring increased support for coaches and student-athletes while enhancing support, communication and recognition within the athletic community. Both Devani and Jill have extensive experience and success as educators and coaches. Along with the extensive and passionate instructional leadership of Jeannette McCann (7-12 Principal) having them all on the administrative team at the same time and being able to focus in areas they are passionate about will no doubt be a great asset to our school and community.
“This restructuring allows us to encourage and empower students to meet high expectations in academics, athletics, and co-curricular activities, while also prioritizing their social-emotional and mental health needs.”
This restructuring aligns with a long-term vision to build the strongest leadership team possible, ensuring that Danville students receive the support they need to thrive in and out of the classroom.