New Schools Superintendent Search Planned In Jenkintown

JENKINTOWN BOROUGH, PA — The Jenkintown School District is now seeking a new schools superintendent, with the 2025-2026 school year not even a month old yet.

School Board President Megan O'Brien, in a recent email to the school community, mentioned public engagement at the board's Sept. 8 meeting about Schools Superintendent Jill Takacs in the wake of Monday night's meeting.

"Our focus now is on working together constructively, especially as we begin the search for a new superintendent," O'Brien said. "We are committed to transparency in that process and will provide opportunities for community input as we envision the future of our district together."

Patch sent an email to O'Brien on Tuesday seeking more information about the superintendent search and the sudden departure of Takacs.

Earlier this month, O'Brien announced to the school community that Takacs — the school district's superintendent since the fall of 2016 — was on temporary paid leave. No reason was given by O'Brien for the decision.

The school board had appointed Steven Van Mater, the district's director of human resources and curriculum, as its interim schools superintendent.

Before her tenure, Takacs was the assistant superintendent of the Middletown Township Public Schools in Middletown, N.J.

As an educator for 35 years, she has served as teacher, assistant principal, principal, curriculum director, assistant superintendent, and acting superintendent.

At the school board's Sept. 8 meeting, O'Brien thanked residents for speaking out about the school district's leadership issues.

"We know the discussion was very difficult," O'Brien said. "It can be hard to speak in public, and we appreciate the effort that many of you made to make your feelings known. It is hard to disagree vehemently and maintain civility, but we are all neighbors here, and we believe it is possible."

O'Brien said the school district will keep the community updated.

"Please know the board is listening, and we do value the perspectives of all stakeholders — residents, parents, teachers, and students alike," O'Brien said.