COLUMBUS, NE — Columbus Public Schools is pleased to announce the appointment of Desiree Teahon as the new Principal of West Park Elementary School, effective July 13, 2026. Teahon will succeed Paula Lawrence, who is retiring at the end of the 2025-2026 school year after a distinguished career in education.
Teahon brings nearly two decades of educational experience to the position, most recently serving as K-12 Learning Coordinator and Elementary Assistant Principal at Aurora Public Schools. In her current dual role, she leads a staff of approximately 120 educators in all functions of teaching and learning while co-leading an elementary building of 520 students. Her extensive background includes curriculum development,assessment coordination, MTSS implementation, and professional development leadership.
“Mrs. Teahon is an exceptional educational leader whose experience in curriculum, instruction, and assessment aligns perfectly with our district’s commitment to academic excellence,” said Dr. Chip Kay, Superintendent of Columbus Public Schools. “Her leadership approach and dedication to continuous improvement will help West Park Elementary continue to thrive. We are confident she will build upon the strong foundation Paula Lawrence has established.”
Teahon holds a Master’s degree in Educational Leadership from the University of Nebraska at Kearney and is currently completing her Educational Specialist degree at Doane University, with an expected completion date of December 2026. She holds National Board Certification and a Standard Administrative Certificate from the Nebraska Department of Education. Her professional involvement includes serving as President of the Nebraska Middle Level Education Association and membership in the Nebraska Council of School Administrators and the Nebraska Association of Curriculum, Instruction and Assessment.
Recently, West Park Elementary achieved “Great” status in Nebraska’s AQuESTT accountability system, the highest classification a school can earn. West Park Elementary is one of eight schools in the Columbus Public Schools district and achieved “Great” status in Nebraska’s AQuESTT accountability system, the second highest classification a school can earn. The district is committed to providing an outstanding educational experience for all students through its focus on academic excellence, character development, and community engagement.