Jun 12, 2015 2 min read

As Burgettstown Area School District’s new superintendent, Dr. James M. Walsh expects some differences from his current position in Mt. Lebanon School District. But he expects a few similarities, as well.

“There is a difference,” he said of the size of the two schools, Mt. Lebanon having about three times as many students as Burgettstown. “But it’s similar in that there are high expectations and quality education.”

The Burgettstown school board gave Walsh a three-year contract with a $110,000 annual salary by unanimous vote at its May 11 meeting.

He will begin his tenure at Burgettstown on June 22, replacing Acting Superintendent Deborah Jackson.

Walsh is currently the principal of Thomas Jefferson Middle School in Mt. Lebanon School District, where he also serves as the district-wide curriculum supervisor. He previously served Aliquippa School District as the director of curriculum and student achievement, and as a principal in Hopewell School District, both in Beaver County.

He said his career in a variety of school districts will be an asset to Burgettstown.

“I’ve seen education from the top to the bottom,” he said. “I think I’m bringing a wide skill set.”

Walsh began his professional career teaching English, television production and theater arts at Westlake High School in Maryland and locally at Peters Township High School. He holds degrees from Duquesne University, University of Maryland and Nova Southeastern University.

He said he admires Burgettstown Area School District and is ready to find opportunities “to take it to the next level.”

“On the occasions I’ve been to Burgettstown, I’ve seen that there are great people,” Walsh said. “I’m looking forward to working there.”