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"In Unity
there is Progress."
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Uplifting Black Women
Leaders in the Field of Education
Our guest speaker during this Women's History Month gathering is Dr. Elana McDonald!
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Dr. Elana McDonald is a board-certified pediatrician in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. She is the owner and chief medical officer of three Philadelphia based outpatient practices; Memphis Street Pediatrics, Pizzica Pediatrics, and Castor Pediatrics. Dr. McDonald’s path into medicine developed from her desire to make a difference in the lives of people, especially children. Her decision to pursue medicine was solidified after participating in a summer internship program while attending Temple University. During that internship, Dr. McDonald shadowed African-American physicians of various specialties. Seeing African-American physicians provide quality care to patients in her beloved city helped Dr. McDonald realize that her dream was attainable. Dr. McDonald graduated from Temple University honors program with a Bachelor of Arts in Biology. She received her Doctorate of Medicine from Pennsylvania State College of Medicine. She completed her pediatric residency at St. Christopher’s Hospital for Children. Dr. McDonald has provided quality, compassionate care in underserved areas for over twenty years. As a pediatrician Dr. McDonald loves educating, treating, and supporting her patients and their families. She is particularly passionate about being a trusted messenger and advocate for her families. She is a proud wife and mother of two sons.
https://www.thetwinsisterdocs.com/meet-us
Dr. McDonald (and her twin sister) are both not only highly skilled and accomplished physicians, they are also advocates for healthcare equality and social justice. They believe that everyone, regardless of their background or socioeconomic status deserves access to quality healthcare...and we look forward to hearing her inspiring truths!
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Last month, we were blessed to have Ismael Jimenez share his thoughts on education; where it has been, where we are and where our paths can be led. As educators, we know that we stand on the shoulders of giants and harness the strength of those who came before us to forge forward. A copy of Ismael's powerful presentation will be posted soon...
Our
Mission
Highlighting Leaders in Education
ASD Board Approves New Chief Academic Officer
ALLENTOWN, PA — At its October 12, 2023 Special Board Meeting, the Allentown School District Board of Directors approved the hiring a new district administrators. Dr. Malika Savoy who will serve as the District’s next Chief Academic Officer/ Deputy Superintendent.
“We are absolutely thrilled to welcome Dr. Savoy, an experienced educational thought leader to serve in this key role in the Allentown School District,” said Dr. Carol D. Birks, Superintendent. “She possesses the experience and expertise to lead the Office of Learning & Teaching, while enhancing the academic programming and services we deliver to our students. We look forward to seeing the positive impact Dr. Savoy will have on our school district's learning community.”
Dr. Malika Savoy possesses more than 20 years of experience in public education, including roles at the School District of Philadelphia. Her experience includes serving as an assistant superintendent, chief academic supports officer, director of instructional resources, principal, and director of instruction.
As CAO, Dr. Savoy will oversee the district’s educational programs, working with educators to develop a Whole Child Framework, oversee the implementation of new curricula, refine teaching standards, and improve student achievement. She will also evaluate educational practices, integrate innovative techniques, and ensure that all curricula and policies align with state and federal requirements.
Dr. Savoy is a passionate leader who is committed to educational equity and access for all students. Throughout her career, she has increased academic outcomes, has led numerous professional learning sessions for administrators, teachers, and parents on effective teaching and learning practices, curriculum development, school improvement, and academic achievement.
Dr. Savoy holds a bachelor’s degree in food science and management, master’s degrees in elementary education and educational leadership from St. Joseph’s University, and a doctorate in educational leadership from the University of Phoenix. She is currently a member of the Urban Superintendents Academy through the American Association of School Administrators and Howard University. She will begin her tenure in Allentown on Monday, November 13, 2023.
- taken from Allentown School District website: https://www.allentownsd.org/what_s_new/CAO_2023