New superintendent was Coudersport grad/By Martha Knight

Gary M. Buchsen - Photo Provided

If the surname “Buchsen” sounds familiar to area residents learning he will be Port Allegany’s school superintendent, that’s because he has family in and around Coudersport.

If “Gary M. Buchsen” has a familiar ring to some, they may recall him as a Coudersport High School student who graduated in 1987.

Buchsen says he will feel at home in the school district and its locale as he assumes his responsibilities in the near future. 

Since high school Buchsen has earned a teaching degree, taught high school social studies for 11 years, received a M.A. degree in education, qualified as a principal, served as an elementary principal, a middle school principal and a high school principal, been director of curriculum and instruction, been transportation director, earned a credential for school superintendent, and been superintendent at Conemaugh Township Area School District (Somerset County) for two years.

Buchsen taught and was principal at Windber Area School District prior to coming to the Conemaugh Township system, holding other positions as well.

His keen interest in academics and curriculum matters has not kept Buchsen from continuing to be interested in school sports programs. He has coached  varsity and junior varsity football and basketball. Music is another interest.

There will be a bried, extended delay between the Port Allegany School Board’s decision to hire Buchsen and his leaving the Conemaugh Township system. There are certain contractual issues having to do with notice periods. Also, an $8.5 million renovation of the Conemaugh Township Elementary School is drawing to a close.

“We are working through the punch list” with contractors, Buchsen said. One open house for parents is coming up soon, and there will be another for the community at large. He feels he should be present for those, and wants to do all he can to facilitate that district’s smooth continuation of administrative functions.

Currently living in Johnstown, Buchsen looks forward to coming back to this area. He and his wife, Jennifer, have two daughters.

The Conemaugh school system has 980 students and 150 staff members.

The Port Allegany board voted unanimously Monday night to give Buchsen a five-year contract. His year-one salary will be $110,000, plus fringe benefits.