Dear Baldwin-Whitehall Families, Students, and Staff,

I am pleased to share that Dr. David Muench has been selected to serve as the next principal of J. E. Harrison Middle School. His anticipated official start date is August 1, although he has already begun working with Mr. Ross on several important transition items, including the development of the master schedule and other planning efforts for the upcoming school year.

Dr. Muench brings 29 years of experience in public education and a strong understanding of the middle school years. He previously served for nearly 16 years as principal of Independence Middle School in the Bethel Park School District, where his work focused on strengthening instruction, expanding academic supports, improving teacher collaboration, and building school systems that support both students and staff.

In his current role as Director of Student Support Services in Bethel Park, Dr. Muench has continued to lead work that is especially important for a middle school community. His experience includes student support services, special education, gifted education, English language development, counseling, student assistance programming, academic and behavioral supports, social-emotional learning, and trauma-informed practices. This background will serve him well at J. E. Harrison, where students are growing academically, socially, and personally during one of the most important transitions in their educational journey.

Throughout his career, Dr. Muench has shown a commitment to creating schools where students are known, supported, challenged, and connected. He understands that middle school students need clear expectations, meaningful relationships, strong communication, and a school environment that helps them build confidence and independence.

I also want to take this opportunity to thank Mr. Ross for his years of service to J. E. Harrison Middle School and to the Baldwin-Whitehall School District. Mr. Ross has served the middle school community as a teacher, assistant principal, and principal, and his commitment to students, families, and staff has made a lasting impact. We are grateful for his leadership and wish him all the best in his next adventure as a Baldwin High School Social Studies teacher.

We are excited to welcome Dr. Muench to the Baldwin-Whitehall School District and to the J. E. Harrison Middle School community. In the weeks ahead, we will share opportunities for students, staff, and families to meet him and learn more about his leadership and vision for the school.

Please join me in welcoming Dr. David Muench to J. E. Harrison Middle School and in thanking Mr. Ross for his continued service to Baldwin-Whitehall.

Sincerely,
Dr. Randal A. Lutz
Superintendent of Schools