AllentownSchool District

Cheryl Clark to Serve as Next Principal of Allen High School

Cheryl Clark to Serve as Next Principal of Allen High School
Posted on 08/11/2022

ALLENTOWN, PA — At its Thursday meeting, the Allentown Board of School Directors approved the appointment of Cheryl Clark as the next principal of William Allen High School effective Tuesday, August 16.


Clark will become the first African American woman to serve as the school’s principal. She brings 13 years of administrative experience to ASD, as both a building leader and in central office positions. Throughout her career she has demonstrated the ability to promote excellence through effective leadership, with a focus on boosting student achievement through sound instructional practices, analyzing data to set and monitor goals, and leading meaningful professional development opportunities for teachers and staff.


“We are pleased to name Ms. Cheryl Clark as our next principal of William Allen High School.  She is a proven and passionate leader who understands the importance of creating a shared vision amongst educators, families, students, and community members,” said Dr. John D. Stanford, ASD Superintendent. “This represents a critical leadership transition, as we are getting the pieces in place to start the school year in a very strong position. We look forward to seeing the impact Ms. Clark will have as she brings stability to the school community of William Allen High School.”


Over the past several years, Clark has served as president of Clark Connections, through which she taught as an adjunct professor at both Essex County College and the Regional Teaching Center in Randolph, New Jersey. Previously, she was interim principal of Somerset Intermediate School in North Plainfield, New Jersey, as well as principal of Franklin High School in Somerset, New Jersey. She also has experience as a middle school and elementary school principal.


“I am honored to be named principal of William Allen High School and am excited to meet our teachers, support staff, families, and students as we prepare for the 2022-23 school year,” said Clark. “I look forward to working with our entire school community to set forth and achieve a shared vision as we approach the future together.”


Clark began her career in education as a whole-school reform teacher and facilitator. She holds a master’s degree in education administration and supervision and a bachelor’s degree in education, both from St. Peter’s College. 


Clark will host a Principal Meet and Greet event on Tuesday, August 16 at 5 PM at the school.  Families are encouraged to attend this event to get to know Ms. Clark. WAHS will also host an orientation for 9th grade students on August 24 at 6 PM. 


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