Mill Creek board gives superintendent an "outstanding" rating for 2024–25

The Mill Creek Township School District Board of Directors voted on Aug. 18 to approve an "outstanding" performance rating for Superintendent Dr. Christopher Kavanaugh for the 2024–25 school year and to publish the board's supporting letter on the district website.

The board said the rating reflects Kavanaugh’s leadership, work on student achievement, community engagement and the rollout of new programs. The evaluation process began when Kavanaugh completed a self-evaluation several weeks earlier using the district’s evaluation tool. Board members each completed individual reviews, including numeric scores and written comments, which were summarized and discussed with Kavanaugh before the vote.

“Under your direction, we have seen meaningful progress in academic outcomes, community engagement, and the implementation of innovative programs that continue to enhance the educational experience for all students,” the board’s letter, signed by Mary J. Winshell, board president, states. The letter, which the board approved for publication, thanks Kavanaugh and notes the rating recognizes work across the district.

Kavanaugh responded to the board’s action by emphasizing the districtwide nature of the achievements, saying the evaluation “is not simply a reflection of my work, but rather a testament to the collective efforts of so many others.” He thanked teachers, building leaders and support staff and said he looks forward to continuing collaborative work on behalf of students and families.

The board conducted an executive-session review of the evaluation before the public meeting and then voted to approve the rating and the letter during the Aug. 18 meeting. Both the rating and the letter will be posted to the Mill Creek Township School District website following the meeting.