LEWISTOWN — Laura Hicks never believed anyone in a school was “just” anything. Not just a teacher. Not just a custodian. Not just an administrator.

That belief shaped her leadership at the Mifflin County Academy of Science and Technology — and now, as Hicks prepares to resign as administrative director effective June 30, it’s the philosophy colleagues say defined her impact.

Over the past two years, Hicks helped steady and strengthen the Academy’s operations while reinforcing its role as a critical pathway to student success in Mifflin and Juniata counties. Her departure, district leaders say, will leave a noticeable void.

“Over the past two years, Mrs. Hicks has made a significant positive impact on the Academy’s overall operations and has helped guide the institution in its current direction,” said Mifflin County School District Superintendent of Schools Vance Varner. “She was a good administrator. It is a loss for the district.”

The Academy’s Operating Committee is expected to officially approve her resignation at its May 21 meeting.

Hicks was hired in August 2024, stepping into the role following the retirement of Barry W. King. With more than 20 years of experience in workforce development and career and technical education, she arrived with a clear sense of purpose — but also with a willingness to listen first.

“I was always taught we have two ears and one mouth for a reason,” Hicks said during her introductory interview. “You don’t lead well, if you don’t listen well.”

That approach resonated with staff across the Academy, where Hicks emphasized collaboration over hierarchy and process over pressure. Rather than sweeping changes, she focused on aligning systems, strengthening partnerships and supporting the work already happening in classrooms and shops.

Her passion for career and technical education runs deep. Hicks began her career working with young adults through Huntingdon County CareerLink, helping them build job skills through hands-on learning. She later spent a decade at the Huntingdon County Career and Technology Center, where she served as adult education coordinator and director of workforce development.

At every stop, she said, the mission remained the same: help students discover where they shine.

“Every student learns differently,” Hicks said. “Every student deserves to find the niche where they click, where the lightbulb finally goes on.”

She has seen those moments repeatedly — students who struggled in traditional classroom settings suddenly thriving in labs, internships, and work-based learning environments. To Hicks, those moments mattered more than data points or mandates.

“Data and regulations tell us what we should be doing,” she said. “But witnessing those ‘aha’ moments — that’s what tells you you’re in the right place.”

Under her leadership, the Academy continued to build momentum, including student success at state and national competitions and growing collaboration between participating school districts. Hicks consistently framed career and technical education as an option for all students, not a fallback.

“These students aren’t just learning a trade,” she said. “They’re developing confidence, accountability, and a sense of purpose. Those skills stay with them wherever they go.”

Hicks said she was drawn to the Academy even before applying for the position, having worked closely with its staff during her years in Huntingdon County. She described the transition into the role as seamless and welcoming.

“From the moment I walked in the door, it felt like a team,” she said. “There is a deep commitment here to doing what’s right for students.”

As she prepares to step away next summer, Hicks said her focus remains on setting the Academy up for continued success. She believes the institution is well-positioned to grow and evolve — and that sometimes leadership means knowing when to step back.

“The Academy is doing some amazing things,” she said. “Now is the time to let it shine.”

While details of her next chapter have not been announced, Hicks said her heart will always remain with education — and particularly with career and technical pathways that give students tangible opportunities.

Her legacy at the Academy, colleagues say, will be measured in stable systems, empowered staff, and students who discovered their potential.

And in the belief she carried with her every day: no one is ever “just” anything.