District names new security supervisor

The West Chester Area School Board approved the hiring of Michael Stitley as Security Services Supervisor.

The West Chester Area School District’s Board of Directors approved the hiring of Michael Stitley as Security Services Supervisor at their meeting on August 27.

Last spring, the District formed a Safety Advocacy Committee to take a closer look at the security measures in place and what more could be done to help protect the over 12,000 students in the District.

“Hiring an expert in school security to serve as the single point of contact was one of the priorities in our Safety Advocacy Committee,” said Jim Scanlon, superintendent of the West Chester Area School District. “We are fortunate to find someone with Mike Stitley’s experience to work with our staff and analyze and refine our safety plans.”

The extensive selection process involved over 130 candidates and multiple rounds of interviews. Stitley brings nearly 25 years of public safety experience to the WCASD. He most recently served as the Director of Public Safety & Security at University of the Sciences in Philadelphia. He prior served as the Coordinator of Emergency Medical Services for the Somerset County Office of Emergency Management, Deputy Director of Public Safety at Arcadia University, and Administrative Police Sergeant in charge of Emergency Management for the Somerville Police Department. Stitley holds a bachelor’s degree and master’s degree from Farleigh Dickenson University and has numerous certifications and awards for public safety.

Stitley will be responsible for the security of students, staff, buildings, and grounds at all District facilities. Duties will include coordinating the use of the web-based security cameras added to East, Rustin, and Henderson High Schools, as well as Fugett, Peirce, and Stetson Middle Schools. The addition of the cameras was another key finding of the Safety Advocacy Committee. Stitley will also work with local police to provide camera footage to aid during investigations when warranted.

“I’m both happy and humbled for the opportunity to work for one of the best school districts,” said Stitley. “My kids attend school here, and I’m very pleased to be able to contribute to their daily safety and the safety of all students in the West Chester Area School District.”

According to Scanlon, existing positions due to retirement were restructured to secure the funding for the security supervisor position. Stitley will report to the Director of Facilities and Operations, Mr. Kevin Campbell. His start date is yet to be determined.

Michael Stitley