Central Bucks School Board Appoints New Superintendent

DOYLESTOWN, PA —Meeting in special session on Tuesday, the Central Bucks School Board voted 8 to 1 to appoint Dr. Joanna Wexler as the district’s next superintendent.

The school board also approved an employment agreement with Wexler, who will be paid $255,000 a year to manage the district, the third-largest in Pennsylvania, behind Philadelphia and Pittsburgh.

Wexler’s five-year appointment with the district will begin on July 1, 2026, and will extend through June 30, 2031.

“Tonight is an important and exciting moment for Central Bucks as we come together to confirm Dr. Joanna Wexler as our next superintendent,” said board president Heather Reynolds. “From the very beginning of this process, Dr. Wexler’s resume stood out. Her extensive and comprehensive background in special education immediately caught our attention. This is an area where strong leadership and deep expertise are not just valuable, but essential, and her experience will help round out what is already an exceptional executive leadership team of dedicated educators."

The school board launched a nationwide search earlier this year for a new superintendent with the assistance of the Bucks County Intermediate Unit. The search attracted 26 applicants, which the board narrowed to 15 and then to three before selecting Dr. Wexler as its finalist.

“What truly set Dr. Wexler apart was how she showed up at every single stage of the interview process,” said Reynolds. “She brought confidence, clarity, and a genuine sense of purpose. She consistently demonstrated her experience, her collaborative and supportive leadership style, and her deep commitment to student success both academically and emotionally."

Reynolds continued, “Speaking of showing up, we saw that at last week’s community forum hosted in partnership with the Bucks County IU. Dr. Wexler did not shy away from tough questions. She met each one with confidence, grace and authenticity. It was clear that she says what she means and means what she says. And that kind of honesty and transparency is not only refreshing, but very much welcomed.

“I want to commend you, Dr. Wexler, for showcasing yourself and your experience with poise and sincerity," said Reynolds. "It’s clear that you train to run marathons because your stamina was truly impressive. I, for one, strongly value a leader with a strong moral compass and a clear set of principles that they will not compromise. Dr. Wexler demonstrated that, while making it abundantly clear that she’s a collaborative leader who seeks input, values the voices of our students, families, educators, staff and community when making decisions and moving initiatives forward. She will be a visible presence across our district, in our schools, in our classrooms, and in our community. She understands that leadership isn’t about sitting behind a desk but being present, listening and engaging."

Reynolds added, “Central Bucks is a special place and it deserves a leader who will both honor its strengths and help guide it forward with integrity, compassion and vision. I’m confident that Dr. Wexler is that leader. I’m proud to support her appointment and truly excited for what’s ahead for Central Bucks under her leadership.”

Reynolds was joined by seven of her board colleagues in approving Dr. Wexler's appointment and her employment contracdt.

The vote, however, wasn’t unanimous, with board member Karen Smith casting the only dissenting vote.

“This vote was not easy for me. Dr. Wexler has an impressive resume and very valuable experience. I thought she interviewed very well. I firmly believe, however, that being our superintendent requires experience in the role of superintendent," said Smith. "I also place a high value on experience in the classroom. I really struggled with my decision, but I decided that my vote should reflect my belief and unfortunately, I will be voting no this evening.

"That being said, I hope Dr. Wexler proves me wrong with my vote," said Smith. "I love this district very much, and we really need stability and leadership to recover from the turmoil that we’ve had over the last few years. I’m fully committed to working with Dr. Wexler, and I will support her work completely.”

Wexler, who is an assistant superintendent with the Great Valley School District in Chester County, attended Tuesday’s meeting and took a moment to address the board and the community on her appointment.

“Thank you so much for trusting me and putting your confidence in me as your next superintendent. I am incredibly honored and incredibly excited," she said. "These next two months are going to be hard for me because I just want to get here and start leading the good work. The welcome thus far has been truly incredible. I’m not even here yet, and I’m already feeling that sense of welcome and belonging.”

Dr. Wexler is bringing 29 years of experience in public education to her new position with the Central Bucks School District.

As Great Valley’s assistant superintendent, she oversees major components of the district’s human resources systems, including recruitment, evaluation, labor relations, and contract negotiations. She also plays a lead role in implementing the realignment of Great Valley’s elementary and middle schools, has extensive experience with Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS) and other instructional frameworks, and serves as the district’s Title IX coordinator.

Before becoming assistant superintendent, Dr. Wexler served as director of special education and student services in Great Valley for six years, where she led district-wide programs supporting students with diverse learning needs. During that time, she implemented evidence-based initiatives such as the Wilson Reading System, developed the Language for Learning early literacy program, helped implement the PREPARE crisis response model, oversaw the Safe2Say program, and restructured special education staffing and gifted support services to improve outcomes.

Dr. Wexler began her career in education in 1997 as a teacher assistant of specialized instruction at the Montgomery County Intermediate Unit. She later served as a school psychologist and student services leader in several Pennsylvania districts, including Exeter Township Area School District, Souderton Area School District, and Lower Merion School District. Dr. Wexler has also taught at the undergraduate and graduate levels.