DRHS Welcomes New Assistant Principal

The Jaguar family is excited to announce the appointment of Assistant Principal Ashton Lee in the upcoming 2026-2027 school year. Read on to hear about Ashton Lee's passion for education in her own words.

"I believe the most important thing a school can provide a child is a sense of belonging. Students need to feel safe, supported, valued, and genuinely cared for before meaningful learning can happen. Beyond academics, schools should help students build confidence, resilience, character, and a belief in their own potential so they leave not only educated, but prepared to succeed in life. This is the type community I want to continue fostering at Desert Ridge. I personally know its importance because of how an invested high school community impacted my own journey.

When I was in high school, I had an incredible Spanish teacher who saw potential in me long before I was able to see it in myself. She invested not only in my academic growth, but in my personal growth as well, and the impact she had on my confidence and future was lasting. Through her example, I realized I wanted the opportunity to have that same kind of impact on others, and I knew education was where I was meant to be.

The teachers, staff, and students I have the privilege of working with each day are what inspire me most. Their dedication, talent, and commitment to one another and to our school community are the driving force behind the continued growth and success of Desert Ridge High School. Their unwavering focus on doing what is best for students is what allows us to keep moving forward together.

I hope that every parent and student feels supported, encouraged, and a genuine sense of belonging within our school community. I hope they can say they were treated with kindness, compassion, and respect, while also understanding and valuing the work we are doing to support student growth and success.

I loved football season in high school. Friday nights at football games with my friends are some of my favorite memories growing up. Living in a smaller community at the time, those games were a huge part of our social life and really brought everyone together. While we aren't in such a small town, that kind of community connection has been a strong foundation at DRHS and is one of the many reasons I enjoy serving the students and staff at this school.

Fun Facts About Me: I enjoy anything that allows me to express myself creatively through different outlets. I love event planning and interior design, and I have had the opportunity to plan several large events for friends and family over the years. I also enjoy baking and have taught myself cookie decorating, which has become one of my favorite creative hobbies."