What to know as Matthew Friedman prepares to take over lead role in Quakertown district

Dr. Matthew Friedman will replace Quakertown Community School District's current superintendent when the academic year ends.

Dr. Bill Harner, who is retiring at the end of the school year, has been with the district for nearly a decade.

The school board approved Friedman for a four-year contract on a unanimous vote at a special meeting March 28.

Friedman’s hiring comes after a 4-month national search, which included a community survey, multiple interviews with the school board, and feedback from parents, community leaders, principals, administrators, teachers, professional staff and support staff, the district said.

“I am honored to serve as the new Superintendent of the Quakertown Community School District. I look forward to partnering with our students, parents and families, staff, school board and our community in accomplishing the District’s mission and vision.” Friedman said.

“This prepares our students for life after graduation as well-rounded, responsible individuals and engaged citizens in contributing their knowledge and skills to our global community.”

When will Matthew Friedman start at Quakertown and what is his salary?

The board also voted Tuesday to approve the four-year employment contract with Friedman, effective July 1, which outlines an annual base salary of $207,000.

Each year of the following years, he will be eligible for a 2.5% minimum increase to his base salary, given a proficient rating on his yearly evaluation.

Who is Matthew Friedman and what experience does he bring?

Friedman is the superintendent of Ocean City School District in New Jersey, which has about 2,000 students between its three Cape May County schools. He was hired in June 2022 and will continue serving Ocean City until starting his new position at Quakertown.

Friedman is a graduate of the University of Pittsburgh, Carnegie Mellon University and other distinguished universities. He began his career 24 years ago as a teacher before obtaining his first administrator role in 2003.

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In a news release, school board president Glenn Iosue said Friedman was the best for the district, calling him a “visionary leader and passionate educator.”

"His track record of stellar academic performance, and his desire to help students, families and staff, demonstrates his capability to succeed in this new role.”

Prior to joining Ocean City, Friedman most recently worked at South Orange Maplewood School District in New Jersey for two years as assistant superintendent of curriculum and instruction and three years as chief academic officer with Downingtown Area School District, according to his LinkedIn profile.

He currently lives in Downingtown with his wife, Rebecca, and their three children, Hannah, 11, Rachel, 9, and 6-year-old Ethan.

William Harner's retirement from Quakertown leaves lasting impression

Harner originally started with Quakertown in 2014 when he was appointed interim superintendent following former Superintendent Lisa Andrejko's retirement in 2014. Later that year he signed a contract with the district, making him her official replacement.

In December, the district issued a news release announcing his retirement at the end of the school year, touting him for his numerous contributions throughout his time of service.

According to the release, Harner created a "culture of trust" through communication and transparency; pushed initiatives for Pre-K, full-day kindergarten, gifted curriculum and expanded world language opportunities; and his work was recognized by the World Affairs Council of Harrisburg, which gave him the Torch of Global Enlightenment award in 2020.

More: Quakertown Superintendent Bill Harner lauded by World Affairs Council

In the release, school board president Jon Kern said the district made “unbelievable” strides under Harner’s leadership.

“His forward-thinking approach to building a team that exhibits camaraderie and a drive for excellence is second to none. Dr. Harner spearheaded an approach to break down silos that were in place across the various buildings and departments — an almost unheard of tactic in public school systems. Quakertown Community School District would not be in the good place it is today were it not for Dr. Harner,” he said.Adam Schmucker, principal of Trumbauersville Elementary School, described Harner as an “unequaled educational leader.”“His guidance over the last nine years in the Quakertown Community School District has been extensive and transformational. Under his leadership, our district has been recognized across the nation and the state.”

More on Harner's retirement: Quakertown superintendent announces retirement for end of school year

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This article originally appeared on Bucks County Courier Times: Matthew Friedman hired by Quakertown Community School District