Dr. Gabriel Ziccarelli, Allegheny Valley School District

The folks at Allegheny Valley School District are enthusiastic about their new superintendent, Dr. Gabriel Ziccarelli. They have witnessed his dedication over the past 38 years, both as a teacher and as an administrator. Now the district looks forward with excitement to reaching even higher levels of accomplishment. With goals in place to improve student achievement and boost current programs, Dr. Ziccarelli is the right man for the job. His longstanding relationship with the faculty, students, and community creates an excellent springboard for success.

First, as a member of a close-knit faculty and student body, Dr. Ziccarelli recognizes the strength afforded by having a small district. He relates how valuable it is that the schools are integrally involved in the community. He explains that Springdale High School has been the center of many community functions. Most importantly, however, Dr. Ziccarelli appreciates the positive partnership between the families and each school, a partnership that has flourished because of the district’s smallness. “I’ve had the opportunity to watch these kids grow up, and I know them all by name. The kids all know who I am, because I’ve been with them the last twelve years. I also have taught many of their parents. The parents have come to trust not only me, but also the teachers. This is very positive for our schools.”

Second, Dr. Ziccarelli is a people-person and a facilitator. He specializes in bringing people together to work toward a common goal. He notes, “I like to create a win – win situation, so that everyone walks away having received at least something they were hoping for.” His mild, soft-spoken mannerisms help to stimulate peaceful communication and effective collaboration.

Though he’s quite proud of all the students and faculty, Dr. Ziccarelli highlights a few notable student achievements. This year three students of the senior class are candidates for several of the nation’s military academies. In addition, various Key Club members at Springdale High School hold state offices, and a group of students in Future Business Leaders of America won local competitions and are headed to “states.” Dr. Ziccarelli is most impressed, however, by the incredible presentations made by each senior as a part of their senior exit interviews. Students completely astonished him as he listened to and watched their presentations to a board of faculty members. He explains, “These projects are designed to let us know if the students are prepared to graduate, and if they have gained the skills to be successful. As I listened and watched, I was totally impressed by each one. They were polished and professional, as if they had already done this many times before!”

It was a pleasure to sit and talk with Dr. Ziccarelli about the Allegheny Valley School District. He spoke about the students with fondness as though he was part of their family. His words of praise for the teachers and administrators demonstrate the sincere appreciation he has for their dedication. It was no surprise that his colleagues also spoke with remarkable admiration of him. As I was exiting the building, I passed the business manager, John Zenone. He remarked, “Dr. Ziccarelli is a great guy. Here in the district, we’re all excited about the way he is taking education to the next level.”

Meet him in person by catching the video interview at http://www.alle-kiskitoday.com/webcasts/1685