Julia Harrison – LRHS News

(LAKEWOOD RANCH, FL) – Dr. Tom Zellars, a beloved LRHS assistant principal, is being transferred to Southeast High School after 11 years at LRHS, shocking students and staff alike. Friday, November 1, was his last day working at the Ranch and Monday, November 4, will be his first day at Southeast.

Junior Gabriella Cardenas said, “[I’ll miss] his happy, warm presence and the smile he always has on his face.”

Zellars, or DZ as students call him, is a beloved part of the Mustang family. It’s rare when a teacher or staff member has the ability to make such an impact on and form a special bond with students. Zellars is one of those exceptional people who manages to do this.

Zellars said, “[I’ll miss] the love from and shared by everyone. That kind of love can’t be found anywhere else.”

Zellars’ favorite memories of Lakewood Ranch include the immense school spirit and graduations.

Zellars is active in communicating with students that virtually all of them know who he is. His friendliness and accessibility has made him adored among the student body.

Junior Jared Dipsner said, ” [I’ll miss] him…at lunch talking about life lessons.”

Many students are feverishly trying to keep Zellars at LRHS by forming petitions to stop the transfer. There was also a banner signed by many students thanking him for all he’s done and how he’ll be greatly missed.

Administration will also feel the absence of “Doc,” as assistant principle Craig Little calls Zellars.

Little said, “[I’ll miss] how genuine he is and how he always puts student interests above his.”

Zellars made an appearance on the LRHS morning news broadcast and said, “Lakewood Ranch has been my home, and You, My Family.

“You have made me ‘feel whole’ in times of sadness and sorrow, You have provided me joy and happiness through your sharing and caring.”

The statements he made on the news had many students choking back tears as the realization of his transfer set in. The relationship between Zellars and students has been one of mutual giving. He says both ends of the relationship have impacted and molded the other.

Zellars assured “we are only a moment away-through text, phone, email and within word.” His email will remain the same (zellarst@manateeschools.net).

Zellars’ final words on his news appearance were “I love you all. Thank you, again, for all you have shared-which has helped to ‘shape who I am today'”.

No matter where he may end up, Zellars will always remain in the hearts of the Mustangs and his influence and inspiration over LRHS students will far outlive their high school years.