KCSD Super Search: Lonoconus Makes Pitch for Permanent Slot
MILL HALL – Dr. Al Lonoconus, Keystone Central School District’s interim superintendent, went before the school board and the public Thursday night, making his pitch for selection as the district’s next permanent superintendent.
Lonoconus, in his introductory statement and in response to audience questions, put an emphasis on getting the community involved in the school system, noting Keystone “is a public school system.” He said the process can result in community members becoming “disciples” for the work of the district. He said the district needs to “brag” more about its accomplishments and said “great things are going on already” in the district.”
He talked about school safety, in response to a question, and said Keystone Central is putting an increased emphasis on student safety, some of which he described as “not visible” to the public, but some which are public, such as his recent announcement about an increased state police presence at the Bucktail school complex in Farwell. He said there are ongoing discussions relative to school safety across the district.
Lonoconus, brought in as acting superintendent six weeks ago, lauded the behavior of district secondary school students involved in their Wednesday response to the tragic school shooting in Florida in February. He called Wednesday’s events “a teachable moment.”
The candidate has a long history of school district administration work in eastern and central Pennsylvania. He began his career in education as a teacher in the Southern Columbia School District and spent 26 years in the district, including a stint as superintendent. He later served as superintendent at the Shikellamy and Great Valley School Districts. He detailed his varied school employment background, from coaching to guidance counselor to attendance officer.
Lonoconus was the second of two public interviews, the third and final public forum set for next Wednesday, March 21 with a candidate whose identity will be revealed early next week. After the Lonoconus interview, board president Charlie Rosamilia said the school board hopes to announce its choice at its regularly scheduled April 5 meeting.
The Thursday interview was streamed live on therecord-online and can be viewed here: http://therecord-online.com/site/archives/40994
