New Superintendent Hired For CPS
Launch the media gallery 1 playerThe Chickasha Board of Education voted unanimously on Monday night to hire Rick Croslin as the district's new superintendent beginning July 1, 2020.
"The board committed itself to finding a leader who shares our passion to commitment to making Chickasha a destination district for families seeking outstanding educational opportunities and who has a strong track record of improving student success," Zack McGill, Chickasha Board of Education President, said. "While we received many quality applications, it was clear Rick shares our passion and commitment and has the experience needed to lead our district forward."
Croslin is currently serving as executive director of secondary education at Putnam City Schools. McGill said Croslin will be in Chickasha and attending district events on a regular basis over the next several months as he transitions to the superintendent role.
"Chickasha is an outstanding community, and the school district has a rich history and tradition of excellence," Croslin said. "I can't wait to become part of the community and begin building relationships so we can all work together to create an even brighter future for the community and its children."
Croslin began his career as a middle school special education teacher in Putnam City. He went on to serve as a middle school and high school principal in Midwest City before returning to Putnam City to serve as a high school principal. He has served his current position since 2012.
Croslin has a bachelor's degree in special education from the University of Central Oklahoma and a master's degree in educational leadership from Southern Nazarene University. He's pursing a doctorate in educational administration, curriculum and supervision from the University of Oklahoma.
McGill said Croslin's experience as a strong instructional leader and belief in the important role of extracurricular activities in academic success were important to the board. He also expressed appreciation for the involvement of district staff and the community throughout the search process.
"We have heard from the community and knew as a board that it was important to find a leader with an extensive understanding of curriculum and how to create academic success for every student. We also shared the community's desire that our next superintendent will be a present, accessible, visible and active member of our community. We believe Chickasha's best days are still ahead, and that we owe it to the children of our community to keep improving and ensure the focus remains on their success," he said.