NEWS

Mount Vernon hires former Ed. Dept. admin

Colleen Wilson
cwilson2@lohud.com

Claytisha Walden joins the Mount Vernon school district as an associate superintendent of curriculum and instruction.

Walden, who started July 1, most recently worked in the state Education Department's school improvement office of accountability.

"Her background with the state education department will be a huge asset as we work to bring excellence and accountability back to the Mount Vernon School District," said Superintendent Kenneth Hamilton.

In her new role, Walden will help guide the school district of more than 8,000 students toward data-driven academic improvement while incorporating the state's Common Core standards and Hamilton's 20/20 Academic Vision of increasing student achievement.

Walden, whose annual salary is $146,000 in Mount Vernon, replaces Jeff Gorman, who has been promoted to deputy superintendent.

Claytisha Walden, right, with Mount Vernon Superintendent Kenneth Hamilton.