Dr. Alexa Allman, the Deer Park School District’s new superintendent, has determined her primary goal is to connect with the community, understand their needs, and foster a sense of unity and belonging. With plans for facility improvements, the district is set to provide quality education while maintaining its small-town charm.
Sitting down for an interview, Dr. Allman was very personal and welcoming. She quickly joked and explained the pros and cons of sharing the name Alexa with an electronic device from Amazon. She did clarify that she had the name first. To build relationships with community members, she invites people to schedule a time to meet with her to better get to know each other.
One of the superintendent’s goals is, as expected, to strengthen teaching and learning in the district. By providing educators with the necessary resources, professional development, and support, the district aims to enhance student outcomes and prepare them for future success. The superintendent’s teaching and learning background positions her well to lead this initiative effectively.
Summing up her teaching experience, Dr. Allman said, “…my teaching experience is really from elementary all the way to high school summer school math… but really middle school was my favorite place to be as a teacher”
In addition to prioritizing teaching and learning, Dr. Allman emphasizes the importance of community engagement. Recognizing that community involvement positively impacts student achievement, the district plans to develop volunteer programs that allow parents, families, and community members to actively participate in the educational process. The district seeks to create collaboration and mutual support opportunities by building partnerships with local organizations.
With the district experiencing growth, Dr. Allman recognizes the importance of maintaining a close-knit community atmosphere while addressing the challenges that come with expansion. By actively reaching out to the community, listening to their concerns, and involving them in decision-making processes, the superintendent aims to foster a sense of ownership and partnership among residents.
Growing up in a small community herself, the superintendent understands the value of family and community in shaping a well-rounded education. Drawing from her experiences on her grandparents’ fruit farm, she emphasizes the significance of connection and belonging in the educational journey. By creating opportunities for families and community members to volunteer and contribute to the district, she hopes to strengthen the sense of community and enhance students’ educational experiences.
“I really want to get to know this community at a deeper level. I’m running some opportunities over the next couple of months and through the summer, to get to know folks.” Dr. Allman said regarding her plans for working through the summer.
As the district experiences growth, plans are underway to improve facilities and infrastructure. The superintendent envisions transforming the elementary school into a modern hub that can accommodate the needs of an expanding student population. This transformation will create a better learning environment and serve as a community center for various events and activities. She pointed out how the high school has become a big part of many local community events since its renovation.
The new superintendent’s vision aligns with the district’s commitment to maintaining a close-knit community atmosphere. By embracing growth and planning for the future, the Deer Park School District strives to provide quality education while preserving its small-town charm. The superintendent’s dedication to community engagement and collaboration ensures that the district will continue to thrive and meet the needs of its students and residents.
Sources:
- Interview with the new superintendent of the Deer Park School District
