The Baldwin-Whitehall School District is committed to serving students in new and strategic ways. Through utilizing fresh approaches, educators can equip students for the opportunities of tomorrow. The District is always exploring new avenues to serve students, including community-building events, integration of technical and collegiate preparation programs, expanded offerings for students with special needs, and launching an esports program.
The leadership of the Baldwin-Whitehall School District is being honored for their strides in education. The Board of Directors has received the Innovative School Board Award, which recognizes a school board that has adopted an innovative approach to its responsibilities and led the district to exceptional performance. The school board was noted for moving beyond political and ideological differences to work together in the service of their students’ best interests, as models of compromise and effective discourse. Strong District leadership and a clear comprehensive plan for District-wide improvement inspires and supports the board’s conflict-free progress. As evidence of their commitment to common goals, most all publicly recorded votes by the board have been unanimous. In addition, board members take the time to volunteer in the community during the district’s Day of Caring, and Holiday Cookie Extravaganza.
Dr. Randal A. Lutz, Superintendent of Schools, has received the Innovative School Leader Award for his demonstrated guidance across the District. Dr. Lutz has intentionally worked to create a district-wide culture of acceptance where every student can feel safe and supported in their educational journey. His efforts have included supporting Baldwin High School’s Special Olympics and Best Buddies programs along with work-based learning opportunities for students of all ability levels. Dr. Lutz and his team have also been instrumental in developing STEM programs to encourage more female participation, such as the “Fly Like A Girl” drone pilot program and esports team. Other notable initiatives include mental-health supports, a community event where families celebrate their shared experiences and differences, and the district’s pop-up shop which provides necessities to students and families in need. “I am humbled to be recognized with this award. It is truly a reflection of the exceptional team in our District, where each of our educators is dedicated to serving our students in the best ways possible so they can succeed in their academics now and future endeavors,” shared Lutz.
Each honor comes with a financial award of $1,000, which will be given to the Baldwin-Whitehall Educational Foundation to fund scholarships and grants in the school District
The annual awards were presented as a part of the PA Public Education Foundation Awards and Student Showcase event on October 15, kicking off the 2023 PASA-PSBA School Leadership Conference at Kalahari Resorts & Conventions in the Poconos.