- WCASD
- WCASD Superintendent Search
Introducing WCASD's Next Superintendent
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It is with great pleasure that the WCASD School Board introduces the next leader who will carry forward the legacy and vision of the West Chester Area School District. At our upcoming board meeting on Tuesday, September 26, 2023, at 7:00 p.m., the WCASD Board of Directors will officially appoint Dr. David Christopher as the new superintendent of schools.
Dr. Christopher's extensive experience in public education spans over 27 years, with notable roles such as superintendent at Cumberland Valley School District (CVSD), assistant superintendent, principal, director of curriculum, dean of students, and elementary school teacher in various school districts in the commonwealth. Dr. Christopher’s rich history in educational leadership and commitment to innovation in teaching and learning has prepared him well for this new chapter in our district.
Throughout the interview process, it became evident that Dr. Christopher shares WCASD's passion for excellence and commitment to all students. His dedication to fostering positive school climate, ensuring student wellness, promoting equity, supporting teacher retention, and enhancing staff satisfaction aligns seamlessly with the feedback we received from our staff, our families and our community during the superintendent search process.
The selection process for this role was comprehensive and rigorous. Out of 36 applications received from a diverse pool of candidates, eight were invited to a first-round interview, with two making it to the final round. After careful deliberation, feedback from community stakeholders, and a thorough examination of each candidate's alignment with our community’s criteria, we are confident that Dr. Christopher is the perfect fit to lead WCASD into its next phase of growth and success.
The WCASD School Board thanks Dr. Kalia Reynolds for her leadership as the district’s substitute superintendent. Navigating a school district through transitional phases is never an easy task, and it is leaders like Dr. Reynolds who make all the difference during these times. Dr. Reynolds will resume her role as assistant superintendent.
The district awaits Dr. Christopher's official commencement on December 4, 2023.
We hope you will join us in welcoming Dr. Christopher to WCASD.
Watch a Video Introduction From WCASD's New Superintendent Dr. David Christopher
Overview of the Ideal Candidate Profile for the WCASD Superintendent
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The ideal candidate for the West Chester Area School District Superintendent role should possess a deep understanding of both pedagogical experience and empathy leadership. With a focus on the eleven themes that emerged from the 2023 WCASD Superintendent Stakeholder Survey and Focus Groups, the candidate should be prepared to address challenges ranging from mental health to academic achievement, from equity to technology.
This profile serves as an ideal guideline. The School Board understands that no single candidate may possess all these qualities but utilized this feedback as a framework for identifying the most promising leaders.
Search Communications
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Superintendente Actualizacion de busqueda 9/1 ESPANOL.pdf
Superintendente Actualizacion de busqueda 91 ESPANOL.pdf 26.76 KB (Last Modified on September 2, 2023) -
Búsqueda del Superintendente Actualización 4
Busqueda de la Superintendente Actualizacion 4 08 22 2023.pdf 34.77 KB (Last Modified on August 22, 2023)
Ideal Candidate Profile Specifics
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Educational Background and Experience
- Doctorate in Educational Leadership or related field.
- At least 10 years of experience in educational leadership roles.
- Experience in successfully managing a school district.
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Skills and Competencies
- Mental and Emotional Well-being
- Demonstrable expertise in mental health issues affecting students, including neurodiversity.
- A track record of implementing mental and emotional well-being initiatives.
- Critical Thinking and Academic Achievement
- Strong focus on curricula that nurture critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
- Equity and Equality
- A history of promoting equitable access to educational resources.
- Hands-on experience in addressing racial and socio-economic disparities.
- Behavior and Discipline
- Comprehensive strategies for creating a safe school environment free from bullying and harassment.
- Teacher and Staff Issues
- Experience in professional development programs aimed at reducing teacher burnout and improving retention.
- Parental and Community Involvement
- Ability to effectively communicate and collaborate with parents and the community.
- Resources and Support
- Demonstrated skill in resource allocation, particularly in terms of academic and emotional support.
- Technology and Modern Challenges
- Understanding of the role technology plays in modern education and its associated challenges.
- Standardized Testing and Evaluation
- A balanced approach to student evaluation that moves beyond standardized tests.
- Motivation and Attitude
- Proven methods for enhancing student engagement and motivation.
- Structural and Systemic Challenges
- Experience in implementing policy and structural changes for better educational outcomes.
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Personal Qualities
- Empathetic and compassionate leader
- Strong communicator
- Open-minded and adaptable
- Highly accountable and transparent
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Long-Term Vision
- Establish the West Chester Area School District as a beacon for educational excellence that is equally accessible for all students, irrespective of their backgrounds.
- Build a culture of ongoing improvement and adaptability that prepares students and staff to meet the challenges of the 21st century.
Contact
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If you have any additional questions regarding the WCASD Superintendent Search, you may email CommunicationsDept@wcasd.net and we will share your comments with the School Board and the Chester County Intermediate Unit.