WEIR and CHEROKEE – Please give a warm welcome to our new staff! We are excited to have them join the Southeast USD 247 Family for the 2025-2026 school year!

Laekyn Clarkson – Social Studies at SMS

“Hi, I’m Laekyn Clarkson. I’m from Galena, Kansas, and I graduated from Galena High School in 2021. I earned my bachelor’s degree in history from Pittsburg State University in 2023, and I’m currently working on my master’s in history. I’m 22 and getting ready to begin my third year of teaching social studies. I enjoy traveling and going to concerts in my free time. This summer, I visited Hungary, Czechia, Poland, and Slovakia to deepen my understanding of European history and culture so I can bring more meaningful experiences into my classroom.” – Laekyn Clarkson

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Kassi Jackson – Kindergarten at SES

“I grew up in Pittsburg, Kansas.  I married my husband, Daniel, in April, and graduated from Pitt State in May.  I live with my husband and our cat, Pepper.  My hobbies include traveling, photography, and collecting American Girl dolls.  I am so excited for my first year teaching kindergarten!” – Kassi Jackson

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Alli Rickey – Special Education at SHS

“I am from Joplin, Missouri, but moved to Pittsburg in 2021 to start college for English education. I really love the area and after doing my student teaching at SEHS, I was even more sold on sticking around. I will be teaching Special Education this coming school year while also working on my master’s degree in Special Education. I have one cat named Chunk and she is the sweetest girl. In my free time I like to go to the gym and read, sometimes combining the two activities by reading while working out. I am really excited to start with the district this year!” – Alli Rickey

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Langdon Giddens – Technology Coordinator

“I’m originally from Fort Scott, and most of my family is still in the area. I’ve been working in the technology field for about three years now. I got my start as a Technology Intern at USD 234, then moved on to the Information Technology department at Pitt Plastics in Pittsburg, KS.

I’m thrilled to be back working in a school district setting. There’s just something incredibly rewarding about supporting the staff and students behind the scenes and knowing the work you do helps make a difference in education every day.

Outside of work, I spend a lot of time with my dog, Miko. We’re usually out hiking or finding little adventures nearby. On most nice evenings, you’ll catch me riding my motorcycle in and around Pittsburg. Feel free to stop by and say hello!” – Langdon Giddens

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Laura Santacruz Vera – Spanish Teacher at SHS

“My name is Laura Santacruz, and I’m originally from Paraguay. I earned my master’s degree from Emporia State University. This summer, I got married—my husband’s name is Daniel. I enjoy spending time outdoors and love exploring nature whenever I can. I’m excited to get to know all of you this year!” – Laura Santacruz