New Schuylkill Valley SD superintendent Dr. Clark outlines priorities at first board meeting

Dr. Clark, the new superintendent of Schuylkill Valley SD, used his first official board meeting appearance to thank the board for its support, recognize Dr. Winters for his seven months as interim superintendent, and lay out several immediate priorities for the district.

"Leadership is not about being in charge, it's about taking care of those in your charge," Dr. Clark said, adding that his approach will emphasize relationships and a shared vision. He said he has spent his initial days meeting staff and teachers and started work on forming a leadership team and soliciting feedback from educators.

Dr. Clark told the board that two strengths emerged from staff conversations: "the phenomenal people that make up this Schuylkill Valley SD" and the strong pride in student opportunities, which he said the district will build on through a renewed focus on academics and school climate.

He identified four 'big rocks' the district will prioritize over the coming months: strengthening academic programs and systems for both regular and special education; addressing staffing vacancies and needs; investing in professional learning; and improving school climate so "this place is a place where everyone can thrive." He said the district will pursue these with "a strategic and intentional thoughtful plan" and regular feedback from staff and the community.

Dr. Clark also said the district will work this summer with leadership and teachers to begin academic planning and to "establish a unified vision" for operations and community engagement. He closed by saying he was grateful for the positive welcome and eager to get to work to grow "Panther Pride" across the district.

The remarks concluded with the board moving on to the next agenda items; no public commenters had signed up for that meeting's public comment period.