WEST CHESTER, PA — The West Chester Area School District (WCASD) has appointed Alyse Gonzalez and Ashley Melanson as its first elementary assistant principals, a move designed to strengthen leadership and support across select schools.
Gonzalez will serve Hillsdale Elementary and Starkweather Elementary, while Melanson will oversee Exton Elementary and Greystone Elementary. The new positions reflect a targeted approach, with assistant principals placed at schools where enrollment, programs, and operations warrant added leadership capacity.
“Alyse and Ashley bring exceptional skill, warmth, and dedication to their work, and we look forward to the positive impact their roles will bring to our entire elementary team,” said Dr. Sara Missett, WCASD Director of Elementary Education.
Gonzalez joins WCASD from Hillcrest Elementary in Upper Darby, where she was assistant principal and led PBIS initiatives, trauma-informed learning, and professional development. A West Chester native, she emphasized the personal significance of her return. “This is where I grew up, went to school, and fell in love with education. It’s where my daughters go to school, and now where I am so proud to serve,” Gonzalez said.
Melanson previously served as WCASD’s Instructional Technology Coordinator, guiding standards-based grading and instructional innovation. With 15 years of experience, she is recognized for building strong partnerships with staff, students, and families. “My passion is helping every student feel safe, supported, and inspired to reach their full potential,” Melanson said.
Both administrators began their roles at the start of the 2025–26 school year, after working through the summer with their leadership teams to prepare for the academic year.
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