David McDonald
Superintendent, South Allegheny School District, Pittsburgh
2023
David McDonald is the Superintendent of the South Allegheny School District which is located in the Pittsburgh region. David has been in the field of education for 25 years; he began his career as a middle school English teacher in the City of Erie School District.
South Allegheny is committed to focusing on growing a student centered culture academically and socially. The district is a member of the AASA 2025 Learner Centered Future Driven Education program and also a member of the League of Innovative Schools.
After attending the 2022 Eradicate Hate Global Summit, South Allegheny students were called to action and formed the SA Eradicate Hate Club, which now has over 50 active members. With their mantra of “Love Your Neighbor” they have participated and organized many events and Civil Rights educational trips to help educate fellow classmates and community members to eliminate hate and bigotry.
The Summit was more than empty words – it made clear that a solution-driven approach is the only way to fight hate. That’s why the working group activities, which are results driven are going to be critical in defeating violent extremism. The Summit brought together the best minds in government, private sector, academia, and civil society. Being surrounded by these experts sparked new ideas – some of which I’ve already implemented or have written about.
