Lancaster chosen as new school superintendent

The presses were on hold early Wednesday morning as Wrangell Public School District announced its decision regarding the next superintendent.

The WPSD Board has selected candidate Debbe Lancaster for the position, who will begin July 1. The board arrived at its decision after a series of interviews and consultation with a selection committee. That committee, representing district staff, a parent and student, also had the opportunity to meet and interview the candidates.

Lancaster has reportedly accepted the district’s offer, agreeing to a three-year salary which starts at $107,000 per year.

In the media release she is quoted as remarking: “It is an honor and a privilege to be selected as the new superintendent for Wrangell Public Schools. I am eager to roll up my sleeves and get to work!”

Lancaster will be coming to Wrangell from her current position as certified program administrator with the North Slope Borough School District in Utqiagvik. She was formerly a principal and lead teacher in the district there.

She holds a doctorate from Texas Chiropractic College, an MA in educational leadership from the University of Alaska Southeast and a teacher certification in biology from Region XII in Waco, Texas. Debbe is due to receive her Alaskan superintendent certificate this summer.