The Forest Area School District is actively seeking a dynamic and visionary Superintendent of Schools to lead its educational community into an era of growth and excellence. The ideal candidate will embody the qualities of a democratic and transformational leader, fostering a culture of collaboration, innovation, and inclusion. As a democratic leader, the new Superintendent will prioritize open communication and shared decision-making, ensuring that the voices of students, educators, families, and community stakeholders are heard and valued in shaping the district’s future. Their approach will inspire trust, build consensus, and empower all members of the school community to contribute meaningfully to the district’s success.
As a transformational leader, the Superintendent will bring a forward-thinking mindset, capable of envisioning and implementing strategies that enhance academic achievement and student well-being. They will leverage data-driven insights and best practices to create and sustain programs that prepare students for lifelong learning and success in a rapidly changing world. By embracing innovation and addressing challenges head-on, the Superintendent
will work to elevate the district’s reputation for excellence. This is an exciting opportunity for a leader who is passionate about making a lasting impact on the lives of students and the broader community.
The following characteristics are important to the Forest Area Board of School Directors and the Forest Area School Community:
- EXCELLENT COMMUNICATOR: The ability to build strong relationships through communication and trust. Someone who actively seeks input from others, listens intently, communicates well, and connects with people individually and in groups, both internally and externally. Skilled at putting the larger issues facing education and our school system into context to work side-by-side with community members to solve problems and capitalize on opportunities.
- COLLABORATIVE: The willingness and ability to work in partnership with the board, staff and community. Someone who will include a broad range of stakeholders in decisions and processes, build consensus and follow through on decisions and commitments.
- INNOVATOR: A lifelong learner who can work with the board of education and the school community to pursue educational excellence while understanding how decisions affect students, teachers and learning, and the capacity for innovation.
- INTEGRITY: Possess and demonstrate honesty, good judgment, high moral standards and a respectful and caring demeanor, so that others will know that their efforts, ideas, work and perspectives are valued and essential to the healthy operations of the district.
- EXPERIENCED: Classroom, building level and central office leadership experience in the areas of curriculum and instruction, diversity, equity and inclusion, social-emotional learning and educational technology. Someone who appreciates and considers the district’s community and culture when making positive change.
- FINANCIAL AND OPERATIONAL ACUMEN: Knowledge and experience in: school district budgeting and finance; business operations, management and internal controls; the use of data to support sound decision making; and overall district management.
- ADVOCACY: Knowledge of issues facing rural communities and how those affect schools and their operations. An understanding of the political process and willingness to develop contacts with local, state and federal legislators to share information and perspectives about how the district is impacted by the actions and decisions of legislative bodies.
About the Position:
The Board of Education will offer a 3-5 year contract with a regionally competitive salary, commensurate with the preparation, qualifications, experience, and record of the successful candidate, as well as an attractive benefits package. The Board expects the new superintendent to be involved in school and community events and activities.
Application Timeline:
Applications will be accepted until the position is filled. Materials received by the close of business on February 28, 2025 will be guaranteed a review.
Anticipated appointment will be May 2025.
Anticipated start date is negotiable within July/August 2025.
Application Procedures:
Candidates should submit the following information to be considered for this position:
- Cover Letter
- Resume or Curriculum Vitae
- Official College and University Transcripts
- Three professional letters of recommendation
- Act 34, Act 151, Act 114, Act 126, and Act 168 Clearances
Any questions regarding this position should be directed to the Central Office at 814-755-4491.
Submission of Applications:
Materials should be submitted to Amanda Hetrick, Superintendent Forest Area School District, 22318 Route 62, Tionesta, PA 16353. Materials may also be submitted via email to ahetrick@forestareaschools.org.