As a native of North Carolina, Ms. Thaggard has lived in Las Vegas for the most of her life. Previously, she taught social studies at Bonanza High School for twelve years, teaching a variety of subjects, such as psychology, U.S. government, and U.S. history.

 

Now she’s shifting gears to become a dean to meet new challenges and bring new changes to the school.

 

“I want to see students to get out of high school having a sense of what they’ll be doing later on,” says Ms. Thaggard.

 

So far, Ms. Thaggard has three goals she wishes to see accomplished at Clark.

 

First of all, all seniors will be able to graduate with a high school diploma. Secondly, all students will be able to pass all their proficiencies. Lastly, students will be able to come out of high school knowing what they want to do with their life.

 

It’s now her fifth week at Clark and things are running smoothly.

 

“The staff and students have been nothing but welcoming, supportive, and friendly,” says Thaggard. Students have gone up to her to ask who she was and had introduced themselves to her.

 

She describes herself to be enthusiastic, energetic, and lively.

 

There is no doubt; she often uses humor to make students feel more at ease, setting off an instant approachable vibe. She talks easily with the staff and the students in the office, making the once too serious and nervous environment feel lighter. One of her favorite things to do during her spare time is reading, specifically fiction and nonfiction. A literary work that she recommends is A Song of Fire and Ice fantasy book series by George R.R. Martin.

 

Another thing Ms. Thaggard enjoys is traveling, which she emphasizes a lot on. She prefers to travel to exotic places, places that people normally won’t think of when they think of a vacation. Some places that she has been to include the Far East and the United Arab Emirates.

 

It may seem intimidating to speak with a dean or administrator. However, Ms. Thaggard, once students and staff have the chance to know and communicate with her more, is actually an approachable dean with a bright persona.