Coatesville’s head of schools resigns – Daily Local

COATSWILL – Thomas Hannah, the head of the Coatesville School District, who worked for only a year and a half, has resigned.

School principals are expected to accept Hannah’s resignation at a regular board meeting Tuesday night. Hanna has been on leave since May, and according to the agreement with the district, the salary will be paid until October this year.

“Our school board will immediately begin the process of finding a search firm that will help us hire a new principal,” said Rob Fisher, president of the Coatesville District School Board. “We will ensure that our process includes feedback from our staff, parents, students and the community.”

Richard Dunlap acted as deputy superintendent in Hannah’s absence and agreed to remain in that role while searching for a new superintendent. Fisher said the council is confident of Dunlap’s ability to continue to run the county as the search for a new leader begins across the country.

The 56-year-old Hannah was hired in October 2020 with an annual salary of $ 220,000 and has a four-year contract with the county until June 30, 2024. He replaced former superintendent Katie Tashner.

Hannah joins the list of superintendents who resigned on imperfect terms. Among them are Henry Herner, hired in 1985, Lou Lorento, hired in 1988, Richard Como, hired in 2004, and Tashner, hired in 2014.

“We know there will probably be questions about Mr. Hannah’s resignation,” Fisher said. “But as a personnel case, such cases are considered confidential. We understand the importance of transparency and do our best to ensure it as much as possible, while respecting the privacy of our staff and students. ”

Hannah took the helm in the midst of the pandemic, during which students were forced to study remotely, and most school board meetings were held through Zoom.

“School district leadership is complex and complex – perhaps more so than ever,” Fisher said. “As a school board, we are committed to a thorough and reliable process of finding our next headmaster. We look forward to finding a leader in education who embodies the qualities we know our school community desires and who will continue to promote the Cotsville School District.