Centennial School District Considers New Superintendent

Centennial School District prepares for new leadership.

News Summary

The Centennial School District is evaluating Abram Lucabaugh as a potential replacement for departing Superintendent Dana Bedden, who leaves in August. The board is conducting reference checks and preparing a contract, with compensation expected between $171,000 and $300,000. Lucabaugh’s previous role commanded a salary of $315,000. The school board’s decision follows a thorough search process and reflects community interest in effective leadership and educational outcomes.

Centennial, PA – The Centennial School District is considering Abram Lucabaugh, formerly of the Central Bucks School District, as the potential replacement for Superintendent Dana Bedden, who will depart in August. School board member Patti Crossan confirmed that the board majority is in the process of conducting a reference check and drafting a contract for Lucabaugh.

While the exact salary for Lucabaugh has not yet been established, the district is looking at compensation rates that fall between $171,000 and $300,000, according to salary reports from the Pennsylvania Department of Education as of April. This range aligns with salaries for superintendent positions in the surrounding area.

Bedden has served as superintendent since 2020 under a five-year contract with an annual salary of $227,693. During his tenure, he ranked as the 63rd highest-paid superintendent in Pennsylvania. Although Bedden’s leadership saw improved standardized test scores and the achievement of a Moody’s Aa2 bond rating, he announced in a recent board meeting that he would not seek a renewal of his contract, which ends on June 30, 2025.

Lucabaugh’s prior role saw him earning a considerably higher salary of $315,000 before his resignation in November 2023, following a contentious municipal election that resulted in a shift in control of the Central Bucks School Board to the Democrats. At the time of his departure, Lucabaugh received a severance package exceeding $700,000 and was the third-highest paid superintendent in Pennsylvania, only behind superintendents from the Unionville-Chadds Ford School District and the Philadelphia City School District.

Benchmark comparisons indicate that superintendents in Bucks County and eastern Montgomery County tend to earn higher salaries than their counterparts elsewhere in Pennsylvania. For the 2024-2025 school year, superintendents in Bucks County’s 13 districts are anticipated to earn an average salary of about $230,876.68, significantly above the statewide average of $170,983.66.

The selection process for Bedden’s successor included a thorough review of 32 applicants, ultimately narrowing the field down to Lucabaugh’s candidacy. The board’s process included collaboration with the Bucks County Intermediate Unit, emphasizing a commitment to finding a suitable candidate to lead the district. Lucabaugh was described positively by School Board President Mary Alice Brancato, who cited his compelling plans for enhancing the district.

The Centennial School Board has expressed a divided opinion regarding Bedden’s performance during his time in office, with mixed public comments received throughout board meetings. Some board members indicated uncertainty on how they would have voted if given the chance to renew Bedden’s contract.

As the district prepares for the transition from Bedden to Lucabaugh, it is essential for them to ensure that the next superintendent can build on the achievements of the past and address the concerns that led to a change in leadership. The board’s decision on the potential hire will come in a context of heightened community interest and scrutiny regarding school governance and educational outcomes.

In conclusion, the Centennial School District’s exploration of Abram Lucabaugh as a potential superintendent marks a significant step towards future leadership, aiming to ensure a smooth transition that prioritizes the educational needs of the community.