School Principal’s Office

Meet Ajo’s principal, and learn more about his background.

Principal’s Profile

Dr. Lance Chebultz joined Ajo Unified School District as principal in July 2021. He earned a bachelor of arts in criminal justice from Saint Mary College and a master of arts in educational leadership from Northern Arizona University. He is a proud Sun Devil, earning his doctorate in educational administration and supervision from Arizona State University. He is also an Air Force Veteran.

Dr. Chebultz was raised in Dodge City, Kansas. He played basketball and tennis in high school and college. He has lived in Arizona for nearly three decades and in San Diego, California. for three years.

After teaching in grades 5th, 6th, and high school, and serving as the dean of attendance in the Paradise Valley School District, he moved into administration. He has been an assistant principal at the high school and K–8 levels and a principal at the K–8 level, opening Marley Park K–8 in the Dysart Unified School District. He also has been a varsity basketball, golf, and tennis coach.

Dr. Chebultz has led three schools in three districts to an A state grade. He has also been recognized with a Teacher and Student Advancement award for student academic growth by ASU and the System for Teacher and Student Advancement (formerly known as the Teacher Advancement Program) organization.

“My aim in Ajo is to continue to create a learning environment where each student feels excited to attend school and is motivated to learn. Leading a school during a pandemic is, by far, the greatest challenge any school leader has faced. I am truly grateful for the opportunity to serve the Ajo community’s students, parents, teachers, and staff, and I look forward to a great year.”

Dr. Chebultz lives in Ajo with his dog, Cowboy. He has a son living in Phoenix and a daughter in Oceanside, California. Activities include spending time with friends and family, doing any activity on or near water, and playing golf.