Artwork by Sean Mayer

Drawing of a superintendent (like Sanville) giving a speech

Keira Cavanaugh ‘27

REPORTER

On January 31, District Superintendent Dr. John Sanville announced his retirement. After 38 years of experience in education and a 14-year tenure in the District, he is officially stepping down on July 31, 2025. Before being hired for his current role, Sanville began his educational career as a custodian at Delaware Valley College (now University). “I cleaned classrooms, and it gave me a perspective as to the importance of everyone’s role,” Sanville said. “Each position adds value to a student’s education; I also learned not to erase the board unless you had permission from the teacher.” Sanville later went on to hold many other positions in education, including a US History teacher, a guidance counselor in Spotsylvania County, Virginia, and Director of Secondary Curriculum and Instruction in Unionville.

Sanville has made several contributions to the District during his time as superintendent. He developed the “Portrait of a Graduate” and the “Portrait of an Educator” to guide expectations for students and the curriculum. Additionally, he expanded extracurricular and co-curricular activities across both secondary and elementary levels. “I remember one student who struggled academically but found her voice through our expanded theater program,” said Sanville. “Years later, she told me that being part of those productions gave her the confidence to pursue her dreams. Those are the moments that remind us why expanding these opportunities matters so much.”The School Board is in charge of selecting a new superintendent, with assistance from the Chester County Intermediate Unit (CCIU). The process will require multiple interviews of potential candidates. Community opinions and evaluations will also be taken into account. “A significant component of our process will involve focus groups with students, teachers, administrators, parents, and community members to identify desired attributes for our next superintendent,” said Dr. Victoria Baratta, the President of the School Board. Baratta explained that the School Board is looking for “a student-centered leader with strong communication and interpersonal skills, experience in school finance, and a compelling vision to elevate UCFSD to even greater heights.”

In the future, Sanville is looking forward to spending more time with his wife and his three dogs, Belle, Jack, and Tina. “I’m excited for mornings where the agenda is set by curiosity rather than necessity,” said Sanville. He plans to keep in touch with the community through service with Admired Leadership. Admired Leadership is a program that aims to develop the next generation of leadership, keeping Sanville involved with the district. When asked about one final piece of advice for the District community, Sanville replied, “Time is short for all of us, and you should spend your time on things that are most important to you.”