Superintendent Turnover Continues

The wave of Superintendent changes in Delaware continues to roll on, with a number of former district officials assuming leadership roles. Over 40 percent of Superintendents are exiting or transitioning in 2011.

In June, Woodbridge School District announced its new leader, Dr. Phyllis Kohel, a veteran educator and administrator from the Milford School District. The previous Woodbridge Superintendent of 13 years, Dr. Kevin Carson, took the head post at Cape Henlopen School District.

Polytech School District recently named its change in leadership by appointing Dr. Deborah Zych, former Assistant Superintendent at New Castle County Vo-tech (NCCVT). The former Superintendent, Dr. Dianne Sole, retired after 12 years. On the same wave, NCCVT announced its new lead, Dr. Victoria C. Gehrt, a former teacher in the district and a current Assistant Superintendent in Pennsylvania. The former head, Dr. Steve Godowsky, retired after 8 years with the district.

Appoquinimink School District promoted from within, naming a current principal, Mr. Matt Burrows, to lead the fastest growing district in the state. Former Superintendent Dr. Tony Marchio retired after 16 years in the head position.

Expected announcements are yet to come from Christina, Laurel, and Seaford, totaling 8 out of 19 districts with changes in leadership this year. In a time of rapid education reform, a change in leadership only adds to the complicated transformations within a district. Check back for future updates on these waves of change and their impacts.