Latta, OK

Nestled in the southwest corner of Ada sits the community of Latta. Though small in area, the heart of the town is the school. The Latta School District is known for school spirit, athletic success, and forming bonds that last a lifetime.

Ann Lancaster has had a front row seat to see the town and its children grow and flourish. That seat has been from the one position where she has had the chance to observe, interact with, and influence every child that has come through the Latta school system- the lunchroom. By preparing and serving breakfasts and lunch to hundreds of students over the years, Ann knows the heart of Latta, and she is in many ways the heart of Latta.

Although Ann was born in Tennessee, her family moved to Ada when she was young. Her husband BF’s family lived in Ada as well, and had a corn patch of his family’s farm was where Lazer Zone now sits. When BF and Ann started their own family, they bought land in Latta and built a home in 1950.

That home still stands near the school, and Ann still lives there with her grandson, Brad. The Lancaster family planted roots and grew in Latta, as their children, Jimmy and Jannie, were born and attended the Latta public schools. Jimmy was active in sports, while Jannie was the queen of school spirit.

After Ann’s children graduated from high school, Ann herself joined the staff at the Latta schools in 1985. She worked in the cafeteria at the Latta Schools for decades, and even in her 80’s now, she still packs up and heads to work every day. Her job has changed a little over the years, as she now sits in her chair and takes money for lunches every day.

Like many residents of Latta, the Lancasters have always been enthusiastic supporters of the Latta Panthers athletic teams. During basketball season, Ann and Brad head to the newly renovated Panthers Gymnasium to watch every basketball game they possibly can. They also check out spring and summertime baseball and softball games, even though she can hear the announcers through the window of her home.

The Latta Panthers always put on a good show! They are known for excellence in athletics, including multiple state championships. Most recently, the girl’s golf team won the state championship in 2015, and the boy’s baseball team had a state win streak lasting from 2003-2005. The boy’s basketball team were state champions in 2013 and 2014.

When I ask Ann “Why Latta after all these years?”, in a world where moving across counties, states, and even the country has become the norm, she says it’s because of the friendliness of the people. She believes everyone is welcome in Latta, and it is a welcoming community. And more than anything, Ann believes that the school is the heart of the community that draws people together. After more than sixty years of living in the same house, working with the same school, and being engaged in the growing community, it’s hard to disagree.

If you’re looking to enjoy a welcoming community brimming with pride, just show up to a Latta Panthers ball game. I’m sure Ann Lancaster will let you pull up a seat next to her.