Pennsbury Superintendent Nominee Named

A nominee recommended to replace retiring Pennsbury Superintendent Dr. Paul Long was named during a special school board meeting Thursday evening. 

“This evening I am very pleased to announce that after a lengthy search for a new superintendent of schools in Pennsbury, the school board is prepared to name its recommended nominee,” Pennsbury School Board President Gene Dolnick said.

The Superintendent Search Committee, which consisted of Dolnick, and school directors Linda Palsky, Simon Campbell and Allen Weisel, conducted the search beginning in January.

Dolnick said the vacancy was posted regionally in several states and drew a total of 25 applications. After an initial screening, four candidates -- one internal and three from Pennsylvania and New Jersey -- were contacted for first round interviews. First and second round interviews were held in April. The full board was invited to participate in the second round.

“Tonight, the school board is very proud to nominate Dr. Kevin McHugh for the position of superintendent to schools. Dr. McHugh is currently serving as Assistant Superintendent of Curriculum and Instruction for Pennsbury, a position he has held since 2008. Prior to that, Dr. McHugh served as principal at Pennwood Middle School, where he was awarded the impressive distinction of National Principal of the Year in 2002 by the National Association of Secondary School Principals. Dr. McHugh earned his Doctor of Education in Education Leadership from Lehigh University in 1999. He holds a master’s degree and a bachelor’s degree in music education from Temple University. Before coming to Pennsbury, Dr. McHugh held teaching and administrative positions in the Methacton, Lower Moreland Township, and Wallingford-Swarthmore school districts,” Dolnick said.

Dolnick said feedback from the community on this appointment is welcomed from the board.

The board will formally vote on the recommendation at the regular board meeting scheduled for May 19.