From Challenges to Triumph

For Dr. Susan Stoddard, a childhood filled with challenging days at home found solace and support in her school community. Teachers and coaches became pivotal figures, helping fill a void in her life that, in her own words, set her on a path she could never have envisioned otherwise.

“They helped set a course for my life that simply would never have been possible,” said Dr. Stoddard. “Their mentorship instilled in me a life-long commitment to give back.”

Her lifelong commitment to contributing to education earned her the title of DeKalb County DeKalb County School District’s (DCSD) Principal of the Year for 2024-2025. Last November, the Lakeside High School principal received the prestigious honor at the District’s 11th Annual Academy of Educational Excellence Awards Gala. For Dr. Stoddard, this recognition was more than just an award; it validated her legacy of service.

“Working with so many amazing leaders who are crafting new programs and support for their communities, I can get focused on what else we could be doing to move us forward,” said Dr. Stoddard. “This has been a potent reminder to really pause and look back at all that we’ve accomplished together. We have something special at Lakeside, and it takes all of us every day to keep it that way.”

Originally from Louisville, Kentucky, Dr. Stoddard received a basketball scholarship to the University of Florida. She earned her bachelor’s and master’s degrees in special education before completing her doctorate in educational leadership at the University of Southern Mississippi. With 35 years of experience in education, she has been leading Lakeside High School since 2020, demonstrating her lifelong commitment to supporting students and staff.

“Serving in DeKalb has underscored what a difference it makes to work in a system where I am free to bring all of who I am to the job,” said Dr. Stoddard. “I’m saddened to say, in education, that is not always the case. I appreciate DeKalb’s ongoing commitment to support the growth and development of all employees, students, and diverse communities.”

Her influence on campus has not gone unnoticed. Lakeside students praise her dedication to supporting everyone academically, socially, and more.

“Dr. Stoddard has employed the best tactics to ensure the students are as comfortable as possible in the school, both clothing-wise and socially,” said 10th-grade student Elliot Steiner. “She uses her power in the best ways possible, working not just to improve one group’s overall state over another but to ensure everyone is satisfied. The overall quality of Lakeside High School has only improved under her watch and will continue to improve with her help.”

To celebrate her Principal of the Year achievement, Lakeside organized a lively hallway parade featuring the Lakeside Vikings marching band. Students and staff spilled into the corridors to honor their beloved principal and other school employees of the year. Dr. Stoddard, ever humble, credits her team and the entire school community for creating the environment that made this recognition possible.

“We have a saying at Lakeside: ‘No Viking Walks Alone.’ It is a motto I see in action every day,” said Dr. Stoddard. “I am one of those Vikings, and I am acutely aware that receiving the Principal of the Year is an honor that I could never have achieved alone.”

Dr. Stoddard’s journey and success clearly illustrate the importance of character and the value of support throughout her path. Her dedication to service has guided her from making strides on the basketball court to championing high expectations and student success.

Becoming the District’s Principal of the Year isn’t just a celebration of her achievements. More importantly, it stands as a testament to the strength of a community that flourishes under the leadership of someone who fosters a school culture where, indeed, “No Viking Walks Alone.”