April 2, 2025

Dr. Houck Named Dover Area School District's Next Superintendent

Dover, PennsylvaniaApril 2, 2025– On Monday, March 31, the Board of Directors of the Dover Area School District appointed Dr. Catherine Houck as the District's next Superintendent. Dr. Houck has shown steadfast leadership throughout her tenure, serving as Assistant Superintendent since May 2021 and Acting Superintendent since July 2024.

David Conley, President of the Dover Area School District Board of Directors, remarked, “On behalf of the Dover Area School District Board of School Directors, I am very pleased to welcome Dr. Catherine Houck as our new Superintendent. Her impressive background and leadership skills assure us that she is the right choice to guide our district into a future filled with promise and achievement. As she steps into this pivotal role, we are enthusiastic about her leadership in fostering a culture of positivity within our schools. We believe that a positive atmosphere is the bedrock for academic and personal success for both staff and students. Moreover, we are confident in her ability to unite our team, ensuring cohesiveness and a collaborative spirit that will resonate through every classroom and department.”

Before her appointment as Superintendent, Dr. Houck served as the Assistant Superintendent for the Dover Area School District since May 2021. She has also held the role of Acting Superintendent since July 2024. Prior to her time in Dover, Dr. Houck was the Principal of Hanover High School, served as Assistant Elementary Principal at Central York, worked as a Professional Development Specialist at LIU #12, and held positions as an elementary teacher and math coach in the Southwestern School District. Dr. Houck’s extensive K-12 experience further strengthens her ability to lead and support our district’s community.

Dr. Houck shared, “I am both honored and excited to introduce myself as the new Superintendent of the Dover Area School District. As I step into this important role, I want to express my deep commitment to the success of every student, the well-being of our staff, and the continued growth of our entire community.”

“I am deeply aligned with our district’s mission: to ‘Educate, empower, and inspire all students to become contributing citizens in an ever-changing world.’ I truly believe the strength of our district lies in the collaborative partnership between students, educators, families, and the community. Together, we can create a learning environment that fosters curiosity, creativity, and compassion—one that fulfills our mission: ‘DASD students will achieve success by engaging in rigorous and relevant instruction, exploring a broad range of opportunities, and discovering unique pathways to a productive future through the supportive collaboration of the entire school community.’” She added, “As we move forward, I am excited to be part of this journey with you, and I look forward to working together to shape the future of our students and community.”

President Conley also noted, “Academic excellence remains a top priority for us, and with her guidance, we are looking forward to seeing our students reach new heights. Her experience and dedication will be key in driving high academic achievement across our district. Additionally, we value her commitment to fiscal responsibility. Her expertise will be invaluable in maintaining practices that maximize our resources and strengthen the educational experiences of our students without compromising the quality of education. In her new role, we also look forward to her efforts in rebuilding a strong sense of community within our district. Her leadership will be crucial in reinvigorating our shared commitment to not only academic excellence but also to the well-being and development of every student and staff member. We are excited to support her in these endeavors and are eager to see the ways in which her leadership will positively impact our community. Congratulations, Dr. Houck. Here’s to a bright and successful future together!”