Administrator Spotlight:
Dr. Karen Lasker
Director of Recruitment and Student Services, Conway School District Dr. Karen Lasker comes from a long line of educators. Her paternal grandmother and both parents are retired educators along with many other relatives. Dr. Lasker became and educator because of her love for helping others. She states, “It was very comfortable and easy for me. I love kids and my mom advised me in college to ‘do what makes you happy and fulfilled.’ In other words don’t go into any career because of what you think others want you to do or what they may think you're good at doing.” Dr. Lasker chose the area of special education because of curiosity. “A certain group of children were in the hall by themselves, at lunch alone and rode different buses. I was curious what they did all day long so I started volunteering to walk them to class and eat with them at lunch. I also invited them to all of my games and track events. I was in love! I changed my major in college to physical education and minored in special education. The rest is history.” Dr. Lasker started her career as a long-term substitute in a second grade classroom in Helena-West Helena. She gained many valuable experiences that first semester. The previous two teachers left midyear and the class of 25 nine year olds informed her of that immediately! She said she is very grateful for those experiences and the relationships that were developed with the students and their parents. Over her 34-year career, Dr. Lasker has worked in districts of all sizes. She has been a teacher in special education and CCE, and a coach for volleyball, basketball, soccer and track in Helena-West Helena, Mount Holly, and Fort Smith. She then moved into administration and served as an assistant principal in Carrollton, TX, and as principal, Director of Personnel, and now Director of Recruitment and Student Services in the Conway School District. Dr. Lasker says her favorite thing about her job is the people, and knowing that each day she is going to help someone solve their problems or issues. “Simon Sinek says what is your ‘Why.’ We are basically all here for the same goal…the students! During my career I have strived to impact young people’s lives athletically or professionally in their education process. What you do may change. I may change roles, but the ‘Why’ is still intact. The better teachers I recruit, the better impact it will have on the process of educating.” When asked what she would tell someone who was considering a career in education, Dr. Lasker says, “I get really excited when I talk to others about a career in education. I will always say go for it…if you don’t try you will never know. If you have a passion for people and love kids, this is for you, but understand what teaching and learning is all about and how it will evolve. Yes, it's hard work, but it is so rewarding.” Dr. Lasker has enjoyed 33 years of marriage to her husband, Nick. She has one son, Al, and one grandson, Knox, who is two. She states that her grandson is “the love of her life!” During her time off, she enjoys spending time with her family, traveling with her mom, and watching her grandson play. 7
