Kutztown School Board appointed George Fiore as the new superintendent.
Fiore is currently the principal of Wilson High School and an adjunct professor in the Secondary Education Department at Kutztown University. He is also a KU alumnus.
“Our board worked with the Berks County Intermediate Unit through an extensive search process. We received many applications from highly qualified candidates, and he rose to the top,” said current Kutztown Superintendent Kathy Metrick.
Metrick announced her retirement in February. Her last day will be Sept. 30.
“It still makes me sad to talk about it, because I thought I’d be here for another three to five years, but I have some health issues I need to take care of. I will certainly enjoy retirement. I just didn’t think it would be this soon,” she said. “Kutztown Area School District and its surrounding communities are wonderful places with fantastic people. That’s what makes leaving so hard.”
Metrick will be working with Fiore during the transition. Fiore starts Aug. 1.
“I think we are both looking forward to the opportunity to transition smoothly.”
Metrick believes Fiore will be a great fit for Kutztown Area School District.
“He wants to be part of Kutztown as a community & a school district, rather than just wanting to be a superintendent anywhere. He is very people-centered and is looking forward to working with the people here.”
Metrick worked with the BCIU on the paper screening process and setting up the logistics for the interviews.
“I was an observer in both the first and second rounds of the interview process. I provided feedback as the board requested it,” she said.
Fiore said there are several reasons why he applied for the Superintendent of the Kutztown Area School District.
“The Kutztown Area School District has many strengths that are very attractive. KASD has a great reputation for providing their students with quality programs, outstanding and caring teachers and support staff, stable intelligent leadership, strong community support, and a school board that is collaborative and forward thinking,” he said.
Additionally, he is a Kutztown University alumnus, graduating in 2000, and an adjunct professor in the Secondary Education Department.
“In both instances, I have enjoyed every interaction with the Kutztown community.”
His immediate goals are to listen and learn as much as possible about Kutztown Area School District and the surrounding community during his first 100 days.
“This will help me develop an understanding of the priorities, strengths, and areas of growth for the School District,” he said. “Furthermore, I am looking forward to building relationships with teachers, support staff, administration, parents, students, and the community. My long term goals are to continually improve the Kutztown Area School District in all areas as well as ensure that our students are well-equipped to be successful in their post-high school plans while being fiscally responsible.”
Fiore believes there is a tremendous amount to like about the Kutztown Area School District.
“I believe it starts with the people that serve the students and the community. As I met members of the school board, administrators, teachers, and support staff, I found that they truly have the students’ best interests as their priority,” he said.
He also believes the Kutztown Area School District has a “willingness to continually improve their practices, programs, and vision for the future.”
Additionally, he said the proximity to Kutztown University is a great advantage for the students and staff that can reap mutual benefits.
“Overall, Kutztown is a great place that I hope to positively contribute,” said Fiore. “I have some very big shoes to fill following Mrs. Metrick who has done an outstanding job leading the School District. I hope to bring energy, vision, and a collaborative approach to teaching, learning, and leadership. I am excited to join the team of educators and the community.”
“I am honored to be selected as the Superintendent of the Kutztown Area School District.”
Prior to becoming principal at Wilson High School in 2012, Fiore’s education experiences include founding headmaster of the Downingtown STEM Academy at Downingtown Area School District, Wilson Southern Junior High School Principal, Adjunct Professor Cabrini College & Wilkes University, Wilson High School Assistant Principal, Director of Instructional Technology for the Wilson School District, and Wilson High School. Advanced Placement Government and Social Studies Teacher; Wilson School District
Fiore earned his Doctorate in Educational Leadership from Immaculata University in 2015, his Masters of Science in Classroom Technology from Wilkes University in 2003, and Bachelors of Science in Secondary Education in 2000 with a concentration in Social Studies and minor in Political Science.
