From Reading School District
The Reading School District is proud to announce that the Board of School Directors has approved the appointment of Dr. April Halligan-Rostek as Assistant Superintendent of Operations. A dedicated educator, accomplished administrator, and valued member of the RSD family since 2007, Dr. Halligan-Rostek brings nearly two decades of experience, exceptional leadership, and commitment to the students, staff, and families of Reading.
Dr. Halligan-Rostek began her career with the District as an elementary educator at Riverside Elementary and 16th & Haak Elementary before advancing to Assistant Principal and later Principal of Millmont Elementary School. In January 2024, she transitioned to Director of Human Resources, where her leadership has helped strengthen recruitment, retention, staffing, and employee support across the District.
Under her leadership, the Human Resources Department achieved remarkable results during summer 2026, including 322 new hires, a 105% increase over the previous year. These efforts included hiring more than 100 Reading Education Association members and approximately 200 paraprofessionals, while achieving classroom teacher fill rates of 100% at the elementary level, 92% at the middle school level, and 96% at the high school level. The department also achieved an 8% reduction in the paraprofessional contractor bill rate.
Dr. Halligan-Rostek earned her Ph.D. in Philosophy of Leadership from Alvernia University, a Master of Education with Principal Certification from Cabrini College, and a Bachelor’s Degree in Elementary Education with a minor in Dance from West Chester University. She holds a Superintendent’s Letter of Eligibility and certifications in Principal K-12, Middle School English 7-9, and Elementary K-6.
Her professional accomplishments include the 2025 and 2026 Excellence in Education Communications awards from the Pennsylvania School Public Relations Association and the 2019 Legacy of Leadership Award from West Chester University.
Beyond her administrative career, Dr. Halligan-Rostek has demonstrated a passion for mentorship and developing young leaders. She served as Head Coach of Alvernia University’s Spirit Dance Teams from 2013 to 2022 and previously worked as a dance team choreographer at Cabrini College and West Chester University. Her community involvement and years of professional mentorship further reflect her dedication to serving others.
Superintendent, Dr. Khalid N. Mumin, who nominated Dr. Halligan-Rostek for this position, added, “Dr. Halligan-Rostek’s journey from the classroom to district leadership exemplifies the dedication, compassion, and commitment that make the Reading School District special. She understands our schools, knows our community, and has consistently demonstrated an extraordinary ability to lead, inspire, and bring people together. Her appointment is incredibly well-deserved, and we are fortunate to have her continued leadership.”
As she steps into this new role, Dr. Halligan-Rostek brings a unique understanding of the District’s needs, having served at nearly every level of educational leadership. Her experience, institutional knowledge, and genuine care for the people she serves will be invaluable as the District continues to grow and strengthen its operations.
The Reading School District extends its heartfelt congratulations to Dr. Halligan-Rostek. We are immensely proud of her accomplishments, grateful for her years of dedicated service, and excited for the impact she will continue to make in this next chapter.
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