Hazelwood School District Hires A New Assistant Superintendent for Learning

The (HSD) Board of Education recently approved a recommendation to hire Dr. Darrell Strong as the assistant superintendent for learning.

Strong will assume some of the duties currently assigned to Dr. Mary Piper, associate superintendent for curriculum and instruction, who will retire June 30.

Strong has more than 15 years of educational experience, having served the past three years as the principal of Hazelwood Central High School, according to a HSD press release.

He previously served four years as the principal of Hazelwood Northwest Middle School.

“Dr. Strong will be an excellent leader in the area of learning and I am proud that we can promote an administrator who is a member of the current HSD staff,” said Superintendent Dr. Steve Price in a release. “He knows the students in our district and the high expectations our parents and community have for student learning and achievement.”

As the assistant superintendent for learning, Strong will direct and coordinate the instructional program for HSD. In addition, he will supervise about one-fourth of the schools in the district, according to the release. He will also oversee professional development, district-wide research and testing.

Prior to his work in HSD, Strong served four years as the vice-principal of Lincoln College Preparatory Academy in Kansas City, MO. He also has experience as a middle school team leader and teacher.

He received a Bachelor of Science Degree from Lincoln University, a Master of Education Degree in curriculum and instruction and an Education Specialist Degree in urban leadership administration and policy studies from University of Missouri-Kansas City. Strong recently earned his doctorate degree from Maryville University, according to the release.

Strong will begin his new position this summer. Plans are currently underway to hire his replacement at Hazelwood Central High School.