Wanda Novales, Executive Pastor of City Reach Church with two local campuses, including one in the heart of Kensington, was considered by the Philadelphia City Council to join the city’s School Board.
Before her religious leadership, Novales was the founding Executive Director and Principal of Pan American Charter School, an International Baccalaureate high school in partnership with the nonprofit organization Congreso de Latinos Unidos.
With extensive experience in teaching and management in Philadelphia public districts and charter schools, Novales brings knowledge and perspective. She currently serves on the boards of the Tacony Civic Association and the City Gospel Movement.
Novales describes herself on LinkedIn as a passionate leader dedicated to driving growth and impactful changes in education and ministry. “I am committed to transformative leadership, achieving academic excellence, and fostering community engagement.”
The prominent community leader holds a Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood and Elementary Education from Temple University, a Master’s degree in Educational Leadership from Cheyney University, and a Superintendent’s Letter of Eligibility from Arcadia University.
Alongside Novales, Crystal Cubbage, Cheryl Harper, Whitney Jones, and Joan Stern were appointed as board members, while Reginald Streater, ChauWing Lam, and Sarah-Ashley Andrews were re-elected. All have been in their positions since May 1.
The nomination of one of the candidates, Joyce Wilkerson, a veteran of the school board and former president, was not considered. Councilman Isaiah Thomas, chair of the Education Committee, stated that “we felt it was better to continue the dialogue,” while estimating that the council could “build consensus” on this candidate.
“I continue to support my entire list of nine nominees”
Philadelphia Mayor Cherelle Parker spoke ahead of the council vote.
“I continue to support my entire list of nine nominees, including Joyce Wilkerson. I selected representatives who wholeheartedly share my vision for public education in our city,” Parker said.
Parker indicated that since no one has been confirmed to replace Wilkerson, “I have asked her to continue her service to our children as a member of the Board of Education beyond April 30, until I appoint a new member. She has agreed to do so.”
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The mayor nominated nine people to serve on the Philadelphia Board of Education. These nominations were transmitted to City Council for advice and consent.
Parker ensured the selection of the best candidates with the skills, experiences, knowledge, and wisdom to serve on a School Board that is fully committed to good governance and the best interests of the 197,000 students in the school system, as well as families, teachers, and staff.
Mayor Parker’s announcement of her nine nominations to the school board followed a comprehensive process in which she first appointed 13 people to the Educational Nominating Panel, who volunteered their time to lead a public process in which 122 individuals applied to serve on the board.
Noticias Newswire
