MESSAGE FROM THE SUPERINTENDENT

The Northampton Area School District has enhanced opportunities for students over the past several years. I am proud to say that 89% of the Class of 2023 went on to a two-year, four-year, or trade school, the military, or the workforce after graduating from NASD. Academics will continue to be the top priority, but today there is much more that educational systems are offering to assist students and families in our District. The District began the Comprehensive Planning Process during the 2021-2022 school year with the assistance of community members, parents, staff and students. This process, or the NASD Profile of a Graduate, will be completed during the 2023-2024 school year and will serve as the vehicle that guides the District for the next several years. 

The District has partnered with many community agencies to assist students and families with obstacles that are occurring in their lives. These opportunities will continue this school year.  If you are experiencing obstacles in your life, please contact the District for assistance.

The District has always been proactive in the area of safety and this will continue for this school year. The expansion of the District Police Department, safety training for staff and students, information sessions for parents/guardians, communication with all and working with the local and state authorities to provide the safest environment will be a focus this year.

Implementing the Special Education Plan, working collaboratively with the Bethlehem Area Vocational School, finalizing plans to address Capital Projects, student enrollment, financial impact, monitoring finances without jeopardizing educational opportunities for students, hiring quality staff members, enhancing the curriculum, and providing opportunities for all students to grow will be priorities this school year.

As you are aware, success can’t be accomplished alone. With your support and by working together as a team, the District, students, and community will flourish. I am proud to be the Superintendent of the Northampton Area School District. Wishing you a productive and enjoyable 2023-2024 school year, and remember, it’s good to be a Konkrete Kid!

DISTRICT GOALS FOR THE 2023-2024 SCHOOL YEAR: 

·        Enhance educational opportunities in all academic areas with a focus on literacy, mathematics, science, and social studies by focusing on professional learning and curriculum development

·       Continue to explore and implement opportunities for students to develop College and Career Readiness skills, including the integration of the NASD Profile of a Graduate competencies into the K-12 curriculum

·       Continue the implementation of the District Special Education Plan, including continued professional development to address the goals of the plan and data-based decision making to improve student academic and behavior outcomes

·       Collaborate with outside agencies to develop partnerships to address mental health, counseling, and supports for students, staff, and families

·       Review and enhance safety plans, policies, and resources in collaboration with staff, students, community members, and first responders

·       Finalize and communicate plans to address Capital Projects, student enrollment, and financial impact

SUPERINTENDENT'S PERFORMANCE STANDARDS FOR THE 2023-2024 SCHOOL YEAR:

(1) Student Growth and Achievement:  Superintendent uses multiple data sources to assess student success and growth as appropriate, specific to needs within the District and as determined annually in collaboration with the Board of School Directors

(2)  Organizational Leadership:  Superintendent has worked collaboratively with the Board to develop a vision for the District, displays an ability to identify and rectify problems affecting the District, works collaboratively with District administration to ensure best practices for instruction, supervision, curriculum development, and management are being utilized, and works to influence the climate and culture of the District.

(3)  District Operations and Financial Management:  Superintendent manages effectively, ensuring completion of activities associated with the annual budget; overseeing distribution of resources in support of the District priorities; and directing overall operational activities within the District.

(4)  Communication and Community Relations:  Superintendent communicates with and effectively engages the staff, the Board, and members of the community, clearly articulating the District goals and priorities, addressing local and broader issues affecting the District, and building support for District initiatives, programs, and short/long-range plans.

(5) Human Resources Management/Managing Personnel:  Superintendent incorporates best practices for human resource management and oversight, coordinating staffing, recruitment, and other human resource functions within the District.

(6)  Professionalism:  Superintendent models professional decision-making processes and ethical standards consistent with the values of Pennsylvania's public education system as well as that of the local community.  Superintendent additionally works to individually reflect upon his effectiveness within the role, and works to improve effectiveness through the use of professional development literature and activities.

(7)  Staff Development and Training:  Superintendent designates days and hours for staff development and training to assure that the School District professional employees and support personnel perform their duties to the best of their abilities.

(8)  Liability and Risk Management:  Superintendent incorporates best practices to minimize liability risks in general and risks of bodily injury to students, staff, visitors, and property on School District property and at School District events.

The Superintendent has met the above Performance Standards for the 2023-2024 school year.