Former Central Bucks superintendent, who was facing termination, is now appointed as the leader of a Philadelphia charter school.
Steven Yanni, the former superintendent of the Central Bucks School District, has officially exited his position amidst serious allegations regarding his handling of child abuse claims. In a notable career shift, Yanni has taken on the role of CEO at Northwood Academy, a K-8 charter school located in the Frankford area of Philadelphia.
During his tenure at Central Bucks, Yanni, along with other district administrators, faced severe accusations related to the mishandling of reports concerning alleged abuse of students with disabilities at Jamison Elementary School. The allegations indicated that students in an autistic support classroom were subjected to illegal restraints, posing a significant risk of bodily injury and even potential interference with their breathing, as reported by Disability Rights Pennsylvania.
The claims against Yanni were brought to light in formal termination proceedings. In August, Yanni and Jamison Elementary’s principal, David Heineman, defended their actions at a hearing. Yanni contended that he acted on information provided to him by district staff and legal authorities, emphasizing the importance of trust within administrative relations. He expressed concerns that he was being unfairly scapegoated by the school board, reiterating that he had not intentionally misled parents, the board, or external authorities.
Despite the serious nature of the allegations, a final decision regarding Yanni’s termination had not been reached by the Central Bucks School Board when he announced his resignation. His departure has sparked discussions about accountability within educational leadership and the protection of vulnerable students.
In his new position at Northwood Academy, which serves approximately 450 students, Yanni has expressed enthusiasm, stating that he is honored to lead the school. In a communication to the Northwood community, he highlighted the academic reputation of the institution and the strong sense of commitment and care exhibited by its students, parents, and staff. Yanni conveyed his dedication to fostering an environment where every student feels valued and capable of reaching their full potential.
Yanni’s administrative experience includes roles as superintendent in several districts, including Lower Merion, Upper Dublin, and New Hope-Solebury. His transition to Northwood Academy marks a new chapter in his career, one that is hopeful for both his professional trajectory and the educational community he aims to serve.
