'Take Five' With Council Rock Superintendent Dr. Andrew Sanko

NEWTOWN, PA — With the new school approaching, Patch asked Council Rock Superintendent Dr. Andrew Sanko to "Take Five" and answer a handful of questions about the year ahead. We also added several fun questions just because. Thank you, Dr. Sanko, for taking part.

1. How excited are you about the new school year ahead?

Each new school year brings its own unique kind of excitement, and this year is no exception. Our schools are clean and refreshed, and our teachers and staff are ready to welcome students back in September. For me, the most exciting part of the new school year is having students back in the classrooms; they breathe life into our schools and are the reason why in Council Rock we are committed to keeping “Students First. Always.”

2. What are the biggest challenges the district faces this coming year?

This year, Council Rock is working to improve our instructional practices, curriculum, and our facilities. Two new programs that will be implemented in our elementary schools are the Wonders and Reading Horizons language arts programs. Our facility work this year includes continuing renovations at Richboro and Sol Feinstone elementary schools, and playground renovations across the district. Most importantly, our greatest challenge is the same as every year: Do what is best for our students and provide them with a rock-solid educational
experience.

3. What's new for students/teachers/staff for the upcoming school year

This year, students from Richboro Elementary will attend classes at the former Richboro Middle School. We appreciate the flexibility and support of the community in this temporary adjustment and know that it will help expedite the Richboro Elementary renovation project. Also new is our selection of Autism Cares as Council Rock’s 2023-24 charity initiative. Throughout the year, our students and staff will support Autism Cares in unique and myriad ways, which in turn helps children with Autism throughout our area.

4. What is your favorite book or school subject?

Reading is a gift, and I am fortunate to share my love of reading and book choices with Council Rock students and colleagues. I have many favorite books, some of which I share with students as a guest reader. They include "What We’ll Build" by Oliver Jeffers and "Stone Fox" by John Reynolds Gardiner. My favorite grown-up books include "The Four Agreements" by Don Miguel Ruiz, "The Speed of Trust" by Stephen Covey, and "Blink" by Malcom Gladwell. And my favorite school subject is mathematics!

5. What do you enjoy doing in your spare time?

Spending time with family is important in my spare time, but I am happiest when I am outdoors. Being outside - whether it be camping, fishing, or hiking - is how I relax and recharge. Our world is a beautiful place, despite the troubles and struggles that we all face. For me, time spent in nature can change my outlook and give me a fresh perspective on life and energize me for my work in Council Rock. Ideas, optimism, and inspiration are what I find outdoors, and I am very fortunate to be able to share them all with the Council Rock community.