• DBASD Superintendent of Schools Update:  March 16, 2023

    Hello, Blazer Learning Community Families!

    Please read the message below from the Daniel Boone Area School District School Board President, Mrs. Julia Olafson, with an update on our Superintendent of Schools search.  

    On behalf of the Daniel Boone Area School District (DBASD) School Board, I am pleased to announce that Mr. Thomas Voelker is the finalist selected for the position of Superintendent of Schools of the Daniel Boone Area School District. Mr. Voelker’s appointment will be effective July 1, 2023, pending Board approval no later than April 3, 2023.

    Mr. Voelker is currently serving as the Assistant Superintendent for the Brandywine Heights Area School District (BHASD). Mr. Voelker is a dynamic educational leader, having spent the last decade of his career in district leadership, building relationships and developing a strong culture centered on the district’s vision, mission, and core values. His collaborative leadership style, educational experience (including time spent as a teacher atDBASD), demonstrated passion for students and families, and thorough understanding of the importance of community and stakeholder engagement makes Mr. Voelker an excellent fit for our District.

    The School Board is confident that Mr. Voelker’s proven leadership and experience will positively impact the Daniel Boone Area School District’s education system. Based on the comprehensive search process, the Board believes Mr. Voelker will continue the tradition of excellence at the Daniel Boone Area School District and will successfully serve our students, staff, and community.

    The Daniel Boone Area School District School Board is sincerely appreciative of the input and feedback from the community which assisted us during this process. We look forward to a positive, collaborative future moving forward with Mr. Voelker’s leadership.

    The Daniel Boone Area School District (DBASD) School Board is engaging with the Berks County Intermediate Unit (BCIU) to facilitate a superintendent search for the district. This decision was made based on the upcoming retirement of Dr. Brett Cooper effective July 1, 2023. Therefore, the School Board will be posting the position to review the qualifications of candidates who are interested in serving as the next superintendent of schools for the district.

    Selecting a new school district leader is one of the most important decisions a school board will make. As the school district's chief executive officer, the superintendent interacts regularly with the Board and other school district stakeholders, conducts the daily operations of the district, and is ultimately responsible for the school district's results. Finding the right superintendent is critical for the future of our district.

    For your reference, below is the tentative timeline for accomplishing the above search components:

    • Position Posting: Tuesday, January 10, 2023 - Wednesday, February 1, 2023
    • Community Survey: Tuesday, January 10, 2023 - Wednesday, February 1, 2023
    • Interviews: Monday, February 13; Tuesday, February 14; and Thursday, February 23, 2023
    • Board Appointment (Tentative): Monday, March 13, 2023
    • Start Date: To Be Determined

    We extend our sincere appreciation to Dr. Cooper for the leadership he has provided the district during his tenure. The Board looks forward to working with Dr. Cooper over the next six months to ensure a smooth transition. The School Board fully supports the important work of district administrators, teachers, and staff. We are confident in the district leadership's continued commitment to prioritize what is best for children and to support our staff in providing the best learning experience for all of our students. The Board is committed to selecting a superintendent who will continue the work underway and help lead us to even higher levels.