Dr. Helsel currently serves as the Director of Secondary Education and Federal Programs for the Cornwall-Lebanon School District. Prior to his service in that position, Dr. Helsel was the principal at Cedar Crest High School for 16 years. Before arriving in Cornwall-Lebanon, Dr. Helsel was an assistant principal at Lewistown Area High School. He began his educational career as a teacher in the Central York School District.
“The Board is excited to bring Dr. Helsel to Blue Mountain, as his professional background, along with a deep understanding of many aspects of school district operations, makes him an excellent fit for the staff and students of the district,” Board President Heather Gosch said. “Also, we recognize that our region presents an opportunity for Dr. Helsel to thrive by working closely with other educational leaders in the area as we focus on the achievement and success of the students of Blue Mountain,” Gosch added.
Dr. Helsel received his Bachelor of Science degree (teaching certification) in physics and math, a Master’s degree in education from Shippensburg University, and a doctorate in educational leadership from Nova Southeastern. “I am excited to get started at Blue Mountain. I have really enjoyed the entire process and meeting many wonderful people in the district. I look forward to working closely with the board, administration, teachers, staff and the community as we provide a top-flight education for the students of Blue Mountain,” Helsel said.
“We also want to express our deepest appreciation to Dr. Bob Urzillo for his service to the Blue Mountain School District. Through his efforts and the work of the staff, we are positioned well for Dr. Helsel to begin his service,” Gosch said.
The next step will be for the board and Dr. Helsel to develop a comprehensive superintendent evaluation procedure that focuses on a series of clear goals and objectives for the organization. The board and Dr. Helsel look forward to partnering on the development of that instrument in order to create the benchmarks for success in Blue Mountain.
Information posted above from an announcement from the Blue Mountain School District
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The district has been without a superintendent after Robert Urzilla retired January 31st when his contract expired.