ASD Names Chief Outreach Officer for Family and Community Engagement
Posted on 11/10/2023
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ALLENTOWN, PA — At its Thursday, November 9, 2023 meeting, the Allentown School District Board of Directors approved the appointment of Dr. Robin T. Harris as the district’s Chief Outreach Officer for Family and Community Engagement.
Dr. Robin T. Harris has spent the majority of her career in public education in North Carolina. Over the years, she has been a teacher, principal, and administrator. She also has experience in higher education, most recently serving as an instructor and supervisor of clinical experiences at Winston-Salem State University.
“We’re excited to continue fostering strong connections among the district, our families, and our community,” said Dr. Carol D. Birks, ASD Superintendent. “Dr. Harris brings a wealth of experience and an unwavering commitment to strengthening family and community empowerment while fostering equity. We look forward to feeling the impact she will have on our entire learning community.”
In her new role, Dr. Harris will lead all aspects of ASD’s outreach efforts to enhance academic achievement and foster deep connections with families and the community. This includes forging partnerships with community organizations, evaluating and expanding existing collaborations, and spearheading the creation of School Governance Councils (SGC) and Parent-Teacher Organizations (PTO) at all school sites and work collaboratively with these committees to support school and district priorities. She will also design and develop a Family Resources Center and will work closely with the Superintendent’s Parent Advisory Council.
Dr. Harris is a lifelong educator who recognizes the importance of family and community contributions to student learning and academic success. She has been recognized at the local, state, and national levels for her efforts in increasing parental and community engagement, promoting equity, and innovating methods for high student achievement.
“I am honored to join a district dedicated to achieving student success by building bridges for schools, families, and the community,” said Dr. Harris. “This is an area that I am most passionate about, and I believe that together, we will create a space with a shared sense of responsibility for the success of each student. I am eager to begin engaging with the community to make a lasting impact on the educational experience for all students in Allentown.”
Dr. Harris holds Bachelor's and Master’s Degrees in Elementary Education from North Carolina A&T State University. She also earned a Master of School Administration degree, an Education Specialist degree, and a Doctorate in Educational Leadership and Cultural Foundations from the University of North Carolina at Greensboro. She is currently a member of the American Association of School Administrators and the National Association of Family, School, and Community Engagement.
Dr. Harris’s tenure in the Allentown School District will begin Monday, December 11, 2023.
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