Transition of Leadership at Blackhawk High School
Longtime High School Principal, Scott Nelson, announces his retirement at the end of the year, Mr. Rick Ford appointed to the post of High School Principal.
After 36 years in public education, Blackhawk High School longtime Principal Mr. Scott Nelson announced he will retire at the end of the 2020-2021 school year. Nelson has served Blackhawk High School the last 25 years, seven (7) as the Assistant Principal and the past 18 as the Principal.
In his announcement, Nelson stated, “This district [Blackhawk] has played a major role in my professional and personal life. I feel very fortunate to have been an administrator for the past twenty-five years hear at Blackhawk.”
Nelson began his career as a Social Studies teacher and Head Football Coach in Slippery Rock School District. He taught and coached for 11 years before joining Blackhawk in 1996, as the Assistant High School Principal.
Nelson has appreciated having the opportunity to be a small part of many changes that have benefited the students that have attended Blackhawk. He is looking forward to spending more time with his family and enjoying the outdoors, as he is an avid hunter and fisherman.
Nelson has become an integral part of the Blackhawk community; he will cherish the friendships he has developed during the many years. Blackhawk holds a special place in his heart, and he plans to visit often as a life-long fan of Blackhawk School District.
District leaders, like has been done many times in the past, immediately tapped the talent of the current Assistant Principal, Rick Ford, to replace Nelson as High School Principal. Mr. Ford has been the Assistant High School Principal the past six (6) years, also serving as the Athletic Director the past five (5) years. Mr. Nelson, when announcing his retirement, immediately supported Mr. Ford’s promotion to lead Blackhawk High School. Mr. Ford has spent the past 14 years with the district, where he taught Physical Education and served as an Assistant Athletic Director for five (5) years prior to becoming the High School Assistant Principal. Mr. Ford’s knowledge of the district initiatives, his leadership qualities, and strong work ethic will serve to ensure a smooth transition.
