By: Jesse Davis
THE VILLAGE REPORTER
jesse@thevillagereporter.com
Incoming Pike-Delta-York Local School District Superintendent Doug Ford has issued a public statement amid preparations for the new school year and another upcoming attempt to secure passage of a levy in the November election.
“Although I am stepping into this role for the first time, my family and I have proudly called this community home for years,” Ford wrote.
“My wife and I have raised our children here, and they have been blessed to grow up as part of the Panther family – walking the same hallways, participating in the same traditions, and benefiting from the incredible staff and support that make PDY so special.”
Ford wrote that he has been fortunate to serve the district through various positions over the years. Prior to being superintendent, he spent six years as an intervention specialist at Delta Middle School, six as its principal, and will – alongside his duties as superintendent – be completing his sixth and final year as principal of Delta High School.
“As we prepare to welcome students back for the 2025-2026 school year, there is an unmistakable sense of excitement in the air,” he wrote.
“Fall is always a special time here – from the first day of school to the Friday night lights, the roar of Panther athletics, and the incredible performances of our marching band.”
“I encourage families to stay connected by following district social media pages for important updates and event information throughout the school year.”
He wrote that he also wanted to make the community aware of what he called an “important matter on the horizon.”
“This November, our district will have a levy initiative on the ballot to continue our local share of operating funds. This proposal is a 1.25 percent ‘earned’ income tax, which would replace the current 1.0 percent ‘traditional’ income tax that is set to expire,” Ford wrote.
He explained that an earned income tax like the one they are pursuing “does not include most retirement income, making it more equitable for our community, especially those on fixed incomes.”
The levy attempt comes as the district is still trying to pass a replacement for its 5.31-mill property tax levy, which makes up roughly 20 percent of the district’s budget.
The property tax levy has been defeated three times despite maintaining the same rate – by a vote of 1,743-987 in November 2023, 940-808 in March 2024, and 2,294-1,709 in November 2024.
“Please know that my door is always open,” Ford wrote in his release. “If I can ever be of assistance to you or your family, don’t hesitate to reach out.”
“I am here to serve this community, and I look forward to building on our strong traditions while pursuing new opportunities for our students’ success.”
Ford is replacing former superintendent Jon Burke, who announced in June his plans to resign at the end of July to accept the position of high school principal for the Anthony Wayne Local School District.