Superintendent to Leave Alexandria City Public Schools

ALEXANDRIA, VA -- Superintendent Alvin Crawley announced Wednesday he is resigning from Alexandria City Public Schools effective after July 28. He will become a professor in the Graduate School of Education at George Mason University in the fall.

The Alexandria City School Board will announce the search process for a new superintendent in the next few weeks.

"It is with mixed feelings that I have decided to take the next step in my career and join the faculty of George Mason University to teach, mentor and conduct research at the university level. While I am sad to leave, I am also ready for a change of pace," Crawley said in a statement. "I will still be part of this community and I look forward to continuing to contribute to Alexandria in a different capacity."

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Crawley came to the school system in 2013 to serve as Interim Superintendent after working at Prince George’s County Public Schools. He has worked in education for 37 years, including as Assistant Superintendent of Student Services and Director of Special Education at Arlington Public Schools.

Since Crawley assumed the superintendent post, ACPS has seen test score gains, although they vary by subject and school. Among his accomplishments are launching ACPS 2020, a five-year strategic plan, consolidating middle schools and purchasing a new school building. Crawley leaves his post as the district works to open the new school by fall 2018 and new city revenues could provide capital for renovating schools.

"During his nearly four years as Superintendent, Dr. Crawley has done an outstanding job leading the school division. He has worked tirelessly on behalf of our students and educators," said School Board Chair Ramee Gentry in a statement. "We truly appreciate the steps he has taken to put Alexandria City Public Schools on the path towards becoming a high-performing school division and respect his decision to go on to train the next generation in delivering education."

What do you think the school board should look for in its next superintendent? Let us know in the comments.

Image via Alexandria City Public Schools