Fox Chapel Area Superintendent to retire in 2020

Fox Chapel Area School District Superintendent Gene Freeman has announced his impending retirement after five years with the district.

His departure is effective June 12, 2020.

Freeman said it has been a great honor to lead the district and he’s proud of the path it has taken. Since he began in March 2014, Freeman has overseen changes to the district that include the implementation of a school police force and construction of a $21 million Kerr Elementary that meets changing curriculum needs.

“This district is a remarkable place and I could not be more proud of everything we have accomplished together,” he said.

His salary was not immediately available from district officials.

Freeman has worked in education for 25 years, half of which as a superintendent in Pennsylvania schools.

Prior to Fox Chapel Area, Freeman worked at Manheim Township School District in Lancaster County and at Weatherly Area School District in Weatherly, Carbon County.

Before that, he served as the executive director for curriculum and support programs and as a classroom teacher in the Public Schools of Robeson County in Lumberton, North Carolina.

School board President Terry Wirginis said Freeman’s contributions have left an indelible mark on Fox Chapel Area.

“When he was hired, the school board gave Dr. Freeman a charge to improve academics and to make Fox Chapel Area a world-class school district,” Wirginis said. “He has done just that and has made a remarkable impact during his time here.”

Wirginis credits Freeman’s leadership for helping draw grants to the district worth more than $1 million in recent years, and, for offering professional development to educators from other school districts which has brought in about $500,000 in additional revenue.

“To put it quite simply, the changes that have been implemented during the last five years have put the district in the best position it has ever been in, both academically and financially,” Wirginis said.

The school board is expected to vote on Freeman’s resignation at its 7 p.m. Aug. 12 combined agenda study session and regular business meeting.

The board has not yet decided on its next steps in searching for or choosing a new superintendent.