Dr.+Snell+becomes+Superintendent

Dr. Snell becomes Central's new Superintendent
A new chapter began for Central York School District as the new year brought a change in the leadership of the entire district. As Dr. Linda Estep departed from Central after 25 years as the district’s superintendent, she passed on the role of leadership to Dr. Michael Snell, Central’s former assistant superintendent. Beginning January 1, the leadership may have changed, but the principles that hold the district together will not. “In the short term, I need to just continue to move forward,” said Snell. “I really think it’s my responsibility to take a phenomenal district and continue the progress.” This beach-loving, book-reading, father-of-two promises to continue Central down its long path of success. But following in the footsteps of Estep - will be no easy task, he says. “I hold Dr. Estep’s dedication to the students and staff of this district, and her accomplishments in education, high esteem,” Dr. Snell said. “I will work to reach that level of excellence.” Estep has had her fair share of accomplishments- ranging from the creation and expansion of several buildings to the growth of technology in every school in the area, to the addition of a natatorium, and the constant strive for diversity education. “Dr. Snell has been a great addition to the CYSD team,” said Ryan Caufman, Central York High School principal. “His devotion to the students, staff, and community is unwavering and we are looking forward to working with him.” Dr. Snell says he has every intention of continuing the administration’s tradition of hard work and commitment to providing educational opportunities for all students, but has no intention of making drastic changes any time soon. “I’m not here as a change agent. We’re just going to keep on going with what we have happening,” said Snell. Despite the fact that huge change is not in the short term future for Central, taking on the role of superintendent surely carries a great deal of responsibility, Snell says. The superintendent of a school district is like the CEO of a company- they are responsible for anything and everything that goes on within the “business.” But the transition will be smoother for Snell who, as Assistant Superintendent since 2007, had the opportunity to meet with Central York students, staff and faculty members. The school board’s “Strategic Plan,” adopted in late 2008, will also make the transition to Superintendent smoother for Snell. This document is created every six years and is intended to be a framework of accomplishments for the whole district- created by teachers, board members, and citizens of the community. Snell says he’ll stick to that plan. Throughout the past few months, Snell has also expressed nothing but pure honor, and humility, as he has filled the shoes that Dr. Estep has so kindly laid out for him. “I am excited and humbled by it,” Snell said. “But I also have to remember that there are so many other people that make this happen. It’s not just me. Everybody makes it work.” Back to Anna's Homepage