Please join us in welcoming Dakota back to USD 495!
Dakota Turnbough grew up in Birmingham, Alabama, before moving to Kansas nearly 10 years ago to marry her husband, Dean. Together they have three daughters—Lyssa, Tessa, and Eliza. As the mother of two daughters with autism, Dakota discovered a passion for special education, leading her to specialize in autism and functional education.
She earned her Bachelor's Degree in Early Childhood Unified Education from Wichita State University in 2023 and is currently completing her Master's Degree in High Incidence Special Education with a Low Incidence Special Education endorsement, graduating this December.
Although this is Dakota's first year back in the classroom at USD 495, it isn't her first time at LES. She helped open the current elementary school building as a Title Aide and spent six years supporting students before accepting a teaching position in another district. She is excited to return to the school where her educational journey began—and where her own children attend.
Outside of school, Dakota enjoys reading, spending time with her family, and loving on their dogs. A fun fact about her is that she enjoys writing books just as much as reading them whenever she has the time.
Dakota is most excited about helping students build strong foundations and teaching skills that will help them grow, succeed, and thrive both in and out of the classroom.
We are excited to have her knowledge, passion, and dedication back at Larned Elementary School.