Administration Team

  • Derek Bell
     
    Derek Bell
    Principal
    952.496.5830
    		 I am proud to be the principal of Sweeney Elementary School! My passion for education began while attending school at Zumbrota-Mazeppa Public Schools. I often found myself volunteering for programs that worked with younger students academically and athletically. After High School, I attended Minnesota State University, Mankato where I majored in Elementary Education with an emphasis on Middle School Mathematics. I began my teaching career in the Farmington School District, where I spent 8 years teaching Fifth Grade. During that time, I earned a Masters Degree in Teaching and Learning and a Specialist Degree in Educational Administration from St. Mary's University. After leaving the classroom, I spent 5 years as the Principal of Cannon Falls Elementary School in Cannon Falls, MN.
     
    I live in Lakeville with my wife, Lindsay, and my 3 girls (Madilynn, Myla and Macy). Lindsay teaches Third grade in Farmington School District. We enjoy spending as much time as we can with our girls! We love going to parks, playing outside, and being silly with each other. I also enjoy reading (mainly children's books!), golfing, billiards, and spending time with friends. 
     
    I am proud to be a part of the Shakopee School District and look forward to working with the amazing people who work in and attend Shakopee Schools. 
     
       
    Ashley Bakke, Ed.D.
    Dean of Students
    952.496.5839
     

    I'm thrilled to introduce myself as your Dean of Students! I can't wait to meet each one of you and become a part of your school journey.

    My love for teaching began when I was just six years old, holding “classes” for my stuffed animals in the basement. Since then, I've had the pleasure of teaching kindergarten and third grade in Robbinsdale and Fridley Schools for eight years. I've also served as a site and district leader in Eden Prairie for over eight years. 

    I earned my BA from the University of Minnesota, Morris, my MA from Concordia University, St. Paul and my Ed.D from Bethel University.

    I live with my husband, who is a middle school Phy Ed teacher, and our two boys. When we are not all in school, our family is always on the move, especially when it comes to cheering on the boys during their hockey games.

    I’m excited to work with everyone and make this a fantastic school year together!