PANAMA BOARD OF EDUCATION APPOINTS

SUPERINTENDENT OF SCHOOLS 

The Panama Board of Education is pleased to announce the appointment of Mr. Bert Lictus as the Superintendent of Schools for the Panama Central School District, effective July 1, 2010. Mr. Lictus currently serves as the K-12 Principal for the Panama Central School District. 

Mr. Lictus brings a wealth of educational experience to the Panama Central School District. He began his teaching career in 1993 as a Special Education teacher at General McLane High School in Edinboro, PA. Mr. Lictus served in a variety of teaching and administrative positions in the Pennsylvania school system until 2001 when he was appointed to the position of Director of Student Services for the Panama Central School District. Since that time, Mr. Lictus has held the positions of Middle School/High School Principal and most recently K-12 Principal. 

Under Mr. Lictus' leadership the Panama Central School District has had an increase in graduation rates, has increased the Advanced Program offerings through Jamestown Community College, the grading policies and weighting scale for class ranking has been revised and the Code of Conduct and Athletic Code of Ethics has been updated. Mr. Lictus oversaw the implementation of a new Student Management System for the Special Education program as well as district-wide. 

Mr. Lictus earned his Bachelor's degree in communications in 1982 from Canisius College, his Master's degree in Education in 1999 from Edinboro University.  Among other certifications, Mr. Lictus holds a permanent certificate as a School District Administrator [SDA]. He maintains memberships in numerous professional organizations. 

The Panama Board of Education reviewed their options for replacing Carol Hay as Superintendent of Schools. They believe that it is in the best interests of the district and most importantly, the students of the district to maintain a smooth transition. Mr. Lictus is extremely knowledgeable of the district operations and has provided outstanding leadership in his role as principal. He will be an excellent replacement for Mrs. Hay and will be able to continue to move the district forward in its mission to educate the students.

Board President Bryan Rupczyk commented, "Mr. Lictus will be a wonderful asset as superintendent of schools for our school district. He has a record for high expectations for himself and the entire Panama school community. Mr. Lictus' collaborative leadership style will benefit all of our students, school personnel, parents, and the community." 

Mr. Lictus stated, "I am excited by the opportunity to continue to serve the students and school community of the Panama Central School District. I look forward to contributing to a wonderful legacy of high expectations, high achievement, and positive relationships. Panama demonstrates, in every way, their dedication and enthusiasm for all learners. I am proud to have been selected for this leadership position." 

Mr. Lictus resides in Clymer with his wife, Kristi. They have one daughter Lindsey who is attending SUNY at Cortland.