PPS announces Dr. Wayne Walters as permanent superintendent

After serving as Pittsburgh Public Schools’ interim superintendent since Oct. 1, Dr. Wayne Walters was announced as superintendent today by the Pittsburgh Board of Public Education. Walters was named to the post after a national search conducted by BWP & Associates drew 29 applicants from 13 states and one other country.

Board of Education president Sala Udin said at today’s announcement that this national search and recruitment process included input from more than 1,700 members of the Pittsburgh community — some of whom, he said, approached him in the aisles of Giant Eagle to talk about the importance of choosing the right superintendent.

At the announcement, Udin spoke of Walters’ “high standards” throughout his 30-year career — a journey that has brought Walters from teacher to assistant principal to superintendent.

Also speaking at today’s announcement, Walters said “thank you for your belief in me, as well as the opportunity to lead the Pittsburgh Public Schools as its permanent superintendent. I accept this honor and privilege with an unwavering commitment to serve the children, the staff and the families of the Pittsburgh Public Schools.”

Walters described himself as “a small portrait of the potential outcome of public education,” and said, “I lead with a strong belief that our children have one rotation in the pre K-12 public education system and it must be done well to create transformative opportunities that lead to the fulfillment of lifelong dreams.”

He credited the Pittsburgh Public Schools — “the only employer I’ve ever known” — for nurturing his career and creativity.

“I remain unapologetically student-centered, committed, and passionate about our students, teachers, staff, and families of the Pittsburgh Public Schools,” Walters said. “I know firsthand the many challenges our District faces, but I believe competence, confidence, and collaboration go a long way in creating quality, equitable, well-rounded experiences and spaces of learning and joy for our students. I am genuinely excited about the tremendous opportunities ahead.”

The Board of Education is expected to formally vote to appoint Walters to the position at the next legislative session on July 27. Walters will officially begin as superintendent on Aug. 1.

Walters had been named to the interim post in the wake of Superintendent Anthony Hamlet’s resignation amid an ethics controversy. During Walters’ interim term, the Board of Education elected three new board members and re-elected two, including Udin who was named board president in December.