Quakertown Community School District

Dr. Matthew Friedman, a highly respected educational leader in districts in both Pennsylvania and New Jersey, was sworn in as the next superintendent of the Quakertown Community School District on Wednesday, July 5.

President Judge Wallace H. Bateman Jr. administered the Oath of Office to Dr. Friedman, who shared the exciting moment with his family - wife Rebecca, and children Hannah, Rachel, and Ethan - members of the QCSD administration and School Board in the Bucks County Justice Center.

“I am excited for this incredible opportunity,” Dr. Friedman said. “It is a true privilege and honor to be part of this amazing school community, and I am humbled by it. I look forward to partnering with all stakeholders in this upcoming journey to accomplish the District’s mission and vision to prepare our students for life after graduation as well-rounded, responsible individuals and engaged citizens who contribute their knowledge and skills to our global community.”

He said having so many people on hand to witness his swearing-in ceremony “made it that much more special for me and my family.”

Dr. Friedman replaces Dr. Bill Harner, who retired after leading QCSD for nearly a decade.

Board President Glenn Iosue said "We are thrilled to welcome Dr. Friedman in guiding Quakertown Community School District. Dr. Friedman is a passionate educator and visionary leader. He will advance the education of our students and continue to bring our schools to an even higher and more successful level.”

Dr. Friedman, previously Superintendent of Ocean City (NJ) School District, was approved in a unanimous vote by the QCSD School Board at a Special Call meeting on March 28. He is a graduate of the University of Pittsburgh, Carnegie Mellon University and other distinguished universities. He began his career 24 years ago as a teacher and truly loved his time in the classroom. He realized, however, the need to make an impact on more students and became an administrator.

Dr. Friedman, who signed a four-year contract, was hired after a four-month national search. The search included a community survey that received hundreds of responses, multiple interviews with the School Board along with stakeholder group interviews with parents, community leaders, principals, administrators, teachers, professional office staff, and support staff.

Dr. Friedman has a wealth of experience. He advanced in his career with positions of increasing responsibility over the years. This has included Assistant Principal, Chief Academic Officer, Assistant Superintendent, and Superintendent at top-ranked schools. He makes tremendous strides in implementing successful and innovative programs to help students improve their performance in pursuing college or a career.

“I am student and family focused and committed to building upon best practices to ensure that current and future students have opportunities to explore their interests and find their true passions,” Dr. Friedman said. “I also look forward to listening and learning from - truly partnering with - all stakeholders in our community. It’s time for all of us to do great things, and I’m excited to get started.”

Gary Weckselblatt, QCSD Director of Communications, writes about the people and the programs that impact the Quakertown Community School District. He can be reached at 215-529-2028 or gweckselblatt@qcsd.org.