Next week, the Central Bucks School Board is expected to appoint veteran administrator Jim Scanlon to the role of interim superintendent, as the search for Abram Lucabaugh’s successor continues.
If the board approves the six-month, $135,000 deal with Scanlon Tuesday, current Acting Superintendent Charles Malone would shift back into his primary role as assistant superintendent for secondary education.
Though the 65-year-old Scanlon led the West Chester Area School District for 12 years until his 2021 retirement, he’s well known in Bucks County.
He spent seven years in the superintendent’s job at the Quakertown Community School District, worked as a curriculum director and assistant superintendent in the Neshaminy School District, served as principal of Central Bucks’ Doyle Elementary School and, early in his career, taught in the New Hope-Solebury School District.
He’s also a Central Bucks School District alum, having graduated from CB East High School.
“It would be an honor to return to my alma mater to support the district through a transitional time,” Scanlon said in a statement. “I look forward to getting to know the staff, students, and parents.”
Central Bucks School Board President Karen Smith thanked Malone for his “dedication and leadership” in the acting superintendent’s job.
Of the decision to bring in Scanlon, she said, “It is imperative that the district has the support and leadership of a very experienced and accomplished superintendent who can provide stability.”
Scanlon has worked steadily since his 2021 retirement, filling in for seven months as principal of Lower Merion High School and for three months as superintendent of the Octorara School District in Chester County. He’s also worked as a consultant and mentor to superintendents and school boards.
“Dr. Scanlon has a strong track record of being a very collaborative educator and an honest, caring communicator,” said Bucks County Intermediate Unit Executive Director Dr. Mark Hoffman, who provided the school board with a list of vetted candidates for the interim position and facilitated interviews.
Lucabaugh abruptly resigned following the Nov. 7 election that saw Democrats flip the board’s Republican majority.
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