Parents, staff urge board to keep Quakertown Elementary principal amid planned administrative moves

Dozens of parents and teachers urged the Quakertown Community School District board during public comment to reverse or delay planned administrative reassignments that would move Quakertown Elementary’s principal during a period of building uncertainty and upcoming capital projects.

Parents, school volunteers and teachers described the principal — whom speakers called a stabilizing presence at Quakertown Elementary — as essential while the district plans possible construction or temporary moves. “I firmly believe moving Doctor Lesher at this critical time would be detrimental to the success and well‑being of our students,” said Andrew Gilman, who identified himself during public comment as a community member. Several parents said staff already are talking about leaving if the reassignment goes forward.

The speakers recounted the principal’s daily presence at the school, outreach to families, and work with students who need social and emotional supports. “He stands up for his staff when he feels strongly about something, ensuring that his staff has the resources they need,” said Stephanie Gerhardt, who identified herself as a parent of two district students. Emily Gasprack, speaking as a Quakertown Borough resident and volunteer, said the school “is a family” under the principal’s leadership and urged the board to retain him to help students through the transition.

Board President Hippoff acknowledged the many public comments and noted the board received petitions and letters from parents. Superintendent Dr. Zachary Friedman told the board publicly that personnel decisions are personnel matters; the board announced it would hold an executive session after the meeting to discuss personnel topics. No formal action to change assignments was recorded during the public portion of the meeting.

Why it matters: Parents and staff said Quakertown Elementary faces imminent facility uncertainty — including options that could require building moves or major renovation — and they urged the district not to change building leadership while those transitions occur. Board members and the superintendent said personnel decisions must be handled through the district’s human resources process and discussed in executive session.

What happened next: The board confirmed the executive session to discuss personnel after the meeting. The superintendent and board said they would not discuss personnel details publicly from the dais; several speakers said they intended to follow up with the administration about options and to request reconsideration.

Ending: Board members asked parents and staff to submit questions in writing and to raise issues during scheduled committee meetings and upcoming town halls. Several speakers asked for another public forum before final personnel decisions are implemented; board leaders said they would continue to accept public input while moving the personnel review into executive session.