Convocation gets Philly school year rolling

Convocation gets Philly school year rolling

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Philadelphia Public School District Superintendent Shannon Whitehead started the 2022 school year off with a bang with a Convocation on Monday.

Whitehead was sworn in as Philadelphia Public Schools Superintendent during the Convocation Aug. 1.

“We invited teachers, staff, janitors, bus drivers, and basically every staff member in the Philadelphia Public School District to this convocation,” Whitehead said. “I am the first African American female superintendent for PPS, so I wanted everyone to be part of it as it was a historic moment for our city and school district.”

Whitehead led the convocation, billed “Power Up Philly,” which recognized incoming teachers and staff Monday morning. 

Whitehead made the convocation stand out with a glow-up theme with tutus, tube socks, face paint, and glow gear.

“We also had the Pride of Philadelphia High School Band and cheerleaders perform at the convocation as well,” Whitehead said.

Whitehead said the convocation focused on being positive and everyone was excited to be back together and start a new year.

“We were all excited for a new change,” she said. “We wanted a new face of what celebrating school opening should look like.”

Harold Coburn, school board president, led the invocation and gave closing remarks. Board secretary Darryl Young led the welcome, and board member Michelle Jenkins recognized the visitors and guests.

“I feel privileged to be a part of this wonderful community and educational system,” Whitehead said. “I am eager to see what our students, faculty, and community will accomplish throughout the forthcoming academic year. I'm excited to collaborate with everyone in our community to keep propelling our district forward.”

Whitehead, who was appointed superintendent in May, began her duties on July 1. She is a former principal of McNeal Elementary School in Canton with a demonstrated history of working in the education field.

She is skilled in management, public school administration, educational leadership and teaching. She is a strong education professional with a doctor of education (EdD) from Jackson State University.

Whitehead has many accomplishments, including being selected as the 2019-2020 Canton School District Administrator of the Year.






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