CHESTER — A lifelong Chester County resident who worked in the local school district for nearly three decades will take over as interim superintendent during the search for a permanent hire.
Chester County School District’s Board of Trustees voted unanimously to appoint Tammy Snipes to the temporary role during its regular meeting on Sept. 22. Snipes is coming out of retirement after a 29-year career in public education to fill the opening.
“Having spent my entire career here, it is incredibly humbling to be trusted with the opportunity to now lead our district,” Snipes told the board after the decision was made. “I am proof tonight that Chester County is truly a great place to grow, as our vision states. I am excited to begin the work, I look forward to the opportunities and challenges.”
Superintendent Dr. Antwon Sutton made the surprise request to be granted early retirement during a special meeting of the board earlier this month. He said pressing family health issues require more of his time.
“I am extremely dedicated to what I do here, with some of the pressing things with my family, at this time in my phase of career, I need that time to be with my family,” Sutton told the Board before they approved his exit.
Sutton was hired to lead the district in 2020. His last day is Sept. 30.
Snipes will succeed Sutton after working at every level of the district, including as a teacher, instructional coordinator and administrator, according to a release from the district.
“The Board is excited to have Mrs. Snipes as our interim superintendent,” Board Chair Kena Funderburk said in the release. “Her proven leadership and deep knowledge of our district will be invaluable as we transition and continue in this school year. We trust that the district will stay on its path to success, and we anticipate great things under her guidance.”