Avon Grove School District - Comprehensive Analysis Report

Summary

Avon Grove School District (AGSD) is a K-12 public school system located in Chester County, Pennsylvania, serving approximately 5,000 students. The district aims to foster a learning environment where all students are exceptionally well-prepared to succeed and lead full and meaningful lives. The vision is that all Avon Grove students are well-prepared to create their futures. AGSD is significant in providing comprehensive education and preparing students for future success in a changing world.

1. Strategic Focus & Objectives

Core Objectives

• To accelerate student growth and achievement by strengthening its Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS) in each building.

• To ensure all students achieve the highest levels of literacy performance through a Comprehensive Literacy Plan.

• To ensure students, parents, and staff remain well-informed and engaged through effective communication.

• To establish clear outcomes for students, aligned with the needs of the community and the 21st-century workforce, through a designed "Profile of a Future Ready Avon Grove Graduate".

Specialization Areas

• Comprehensive K-12 education across a diverse range of subjects.

• Implementation of supportive learning environments as reflected in each school's Accelerating Growth and Achievement Plan (AGAP).

• Commitment to high-quality academics and a literacy-rich environment.

Target Markets

• Students residing within the district's boundaries, including the townships of New London, London Grove, London Britain, Penn, and Franklin, and the boroughs of Avondale and West Grove.

• Parents and families seeking a well-rounded education for their children.

• Focus on preparing students to meet the demands of the local community and the broader 21st-century workforce.

2. Financial Overview

Funding History

The district received a clean audit for the period ending June 30, 2024. The per-pupil allocation amount increased by $5 per pupil, bringing the total to $180 per pupil.

3. Product Pipeline

Key Products/Services

• Rigorous Curriculum: Aligned with state and national standards, organized around main ideas, and revised on a multi-year cycle to adapt to 21st-century teaching and learning expectations.

• Professional Support and Learning for Teachers and Staff: Providing educators with the resources and training necessary to deliver high-quality instruction.

• Comprehensive Assessment Plan: Offering a full picture of each student's strengths and needs.

4. Technology & Innovation

Technology Stack

• The Technology Department includes Educational Technology (EdTech) and Information Technology (IT) teams.

• The EdTech team handles curriculum and instruction, professional learning, program development, student information, and the 1:1 Technology Initiative.

• The IT team manages security, network, systems, servers, software, and end-user devices.

• AGSD students in grades 6, 7, 8, and 9 take home their Chromebooks to complete assignments and study as part of the "1:1" initiative.

5. Leadership & Management

Executive Team

• Superintendent: Dr. Scott DeShong. He assumed his duties on May 1, 2025. Previously, he served as Assistant Superintendent since March 2022 and as Principal of Avon Grove High School.

• Assistant Superintendent, School Operations: Dr. Nicole Harvey.

• Assistant Superintendent, Teaching & Learning: Dr. Jason Kotch.

• Director of Business Administration / Chief Financial Officer: Mr. Daniel Carsley.

• Director of Personnel: Ms. Joanne Redden.

• Director of Innovation & Technology: Ms. Rachel Gattuso.

• Director of Pupil Services: Mr. Sean Burns.

• Director of Food Services: Ms. Elizabeth Julian.

• Supervisors of K-12 Teaching and Learning: Dr. Michael Berardi.

• Communications Coordinator: Ms. Kelsey Kebbel.

Recent Leadership Changes

• Dr. Scott DeShong was appointed as the new Superintendent of Schools, effective May 1, 2025.

• Dr. DeShong replaced M. Christopher Marchese, who had been Superintendent since 2013 and whose resignation was effective January 3, 2025.

• Dr. Nicole Harvey served as Interim Superintendent between January 4, 2025, and June 30, 2025.

6. Competitive Analysis

Major Competitors

• Grice Middle School.

• The Packer Collegiate Institute.

• Millburn High School.

Schenectady City School District has the most employees among the competitors.

7. Market Analysis

Market Overview

Avon Grove School District is located in a rural-suburban setting in Chester County, Pennsylvania, serving a diverse population of approximately 5,000 students. As of July 1, 2024, the student demographics are: 67% Caucasian/White, 27% Hispanic, 2% African American/Black, 2% Asian, 2% Multi-Racial, and less than 1% American Indian and Pacific Islander.

8. Strategic Partnerships

The district collaborates with the Chester County Intermediate Unit and also serves as a liaison to colleges and universities for dual enrollment programming and teacher education programs.

9. Operational Insights

Avon Grove School District is recognized for its commitment to upgrading facilities and providing innovative opportunities to students. The district strategically aligns itself with top-performing districts in the nation. It is focused on creating pathways for success in the Information Society, emphasizing technology and STEM programming.

10. Future Outlook

Strategic Roadmap

AGSD is developing a new Comprehensive Plan for 2025-2028, focusing on high-quality academics, supportive learning environments, and healthy system conditions, guided by the theme of People, Progress, and Purpose. The district is committed to providing a literacy-rich environment that meets the diverse needs of all students.