EXTON, PA, August 15, 2019: Collegium Charter School (CCS) is proud to announce that its Board of Trustees (the Board) has unanimously selected Marita K. Barber as the school’s Chief Executive Officer (CEO). Ms. Barber previously served in the dual roles of Acting CEO and Director of Student Services at CCS. She fills the role of CEO following the June 30, 2019 retirement of Dr. Antoinette Rath.
Board President, Dr. Anthony Drager, said, “After an extensive search, we are pleased that Ms. Barber will serve as the third-ever CEO of Collegium Charter School. The Board is confident in her outstanding leadership abilities and experience, commitment to research-based instructional practices, and enthusiasm for student learning and development. In light of Collegium’s 20th Anniversary, we know that Ms. Barber will be instrumental in guiding Collegium’s next 20 years.”
Ms. Barber is thrilled to assume her new role. “As Collegium celebrates its 20th Anniversary, I'm extremely honored to be selected as Collegium's next CEO,” she said. “I look forward to
collaborating with the Board and CCS’s administrators, faculty, and staff on behalf of our students and families.”
In addition to a Bachelor of Science Degree in Biology from Villanova University, Ms. Barber
possesses a Master’s Degree in Educational Leadership from Immaculata University. She is a lifelong learner and continues to study with the University of Pennsylvania’s Center for Educational Leadership and the National Institute for School Leadership. Ms. Barber joined CCS in 2016,
bringing with her vast experience as a Teacher, Coach, Principal, and Head of School with both private and charter schools.
The education community has recognized Ms. Barber’s talent and dedication, as well, selecting her as the Archdiocese Distinguished Principal Award recipient in 2008 and naming her as a St. Matthew CYO Hall of Fame Inductee in 2014. She is intensely involved in her local community, including volunteering with Thomas Jefferson University Hospital’s Neonatal Unit Cuddle Program.
Nicole Anderson, Chair of the Board’s CEO Search Committee, shared, “We interviewed many qualified educators, but It became apparent that a natural leader was already serving Collegium as Acting CEO. Ms. Barber’s accomplishments include several important initiatives that have positively impacted Collegium, and we are excited that she will take on the mantle of CEO and continue to drive Collegium forward.”
About Collegium Charter School: Established in 1999, Collegium Charter School is a tuition-free, independent public charter school offering families a choice for their children’s elementary and secondary education. Over 3,200 students in Grades K-12 currently attend. CCS employs more than 550 faculty and staff. Enrollment is open to any student who resides in Pennsylvania. Most Collegium families reside in Chester County’s West Chester, Downingtown, and Coatesville area school districts.