OIL CITY, Pa. (EYT) — Lynda Weller, PhD., who was formally approved as the new Superintendent of Oil City School District last week, is focusing on a smooth transition as she takes the reins of the district on Monday, July 2.

Weller is taking over for Patrick Gavin, who announced his decision to retire in May of this year. She will start her new five-year contract at a salary of $115,000.00.

She has been with the Oil City School District since 2008 when she became an elementary principal. She served in that position for five years before becoming the high school co-principal.

After five years in the high school co-principal position, Weller said she’s ready for a new challenge.

“It’s an exciting opportunity for me to continue with the district,” Weller said. “I’m looking forward to the challenge of moving into the superintendent’s office and keeping our great programs going and our district moving forward.”

According to Weller, she doesn’t have plans for any distinct changes yet.

“At first, I just want a smooth transition,” Weller said. “I worked closely with Superintendent Gavin for years, so I don’t anticipate any big changes.”

Weller expressed how much she appreciates the chance she’s been given to fill the superintendent position in Oil City.

“I’m just grateful for the opportunity and appreciate the board’s confidence in me,” Weller said. 

“I love being an Oiler and hope to do great things here. We have such a great staff, great students, and a wonderful community. I love my job.”

Weller, a Virginia native, earned her bachelor’s degree in history from North Carolina State University, where she also minored in social studies education.

She began her teaching career in Raleigh, N.C., spending two years teaching at a Gifted and Talent Magnet High School before she made her way to Venango County.

Her first job in the county was a teaching position at Rocky Grove High School where she taught for seven years. Then, she advanced to the assistant principal position, which she held for another three years.

Weller earned her master’s degree in educational leadership from Westminster College and went on to earn her doctorate in educational leadership from IUP.