Dr. Phillip K. Woods, D.Ed., has dedicated his career to inspiring others through his journey, showcasing how hard work and perseverance can overcome adversity. Growing up in the Linmar Terrace Affordable Housing Community in Aliquippa, PA, in a single-parent household, Dr. Woods was shaped by his family’s support, particularly that of his mother, Jolarraine Woods, and grandfather, Wayne O. Woods. He believes that family involvement is crucial for success, a conviction that has guided his work in education.
A graduate of Aliquippa High School, Dr. Woods earned his Bachelor’s degree from Indiana University of Pennsylvania in 2000. His career began at Holy Family Institute, where he nurtured his passion for supporting underserved students as a teacher and counselor. Later, at Penn Hills School District, he advanced from special education teacher to vice principal, earning a Master’s in Special Education and Principal Certification from Slippery Rock University.
In 2011, as principal of West Mifflin Area High School, Dr. Woods championed diversity, earning the school a Parent Teacher Association “School of Excellence” award. After completing his Doctorate in 2017, he founded P.W. Diversity and Equity Resources LLC and worked as an Equity Consultant at Gateway School District, fostering cultural sensitivity and addressing achievement disparities.
From 2018 to 2021, Dr. Woods served as principal of Woodland Hills High School, where he reduced violent incidents by 60%, boosted Advanced Placement enrollment, and improved graduation rates. He fostered a positive school culture through community engagement and academic initiatives, strengthening relationships between the school and the community. His life’s work is a testament to his commitment to equity, educational advancement, and community empowerment.
Dr. Woods, appointed Superintendent of Aliquippa School District in July 2021, is a dedicated leader with a vision rooted in community and excellence. As an Aliquippa High School alumnus, he has tirelessly championed a high-quality education for all students, collaborating closely with the school community to achieve meaningful improvements. Under his leadership, the district’s finances have transformed dramatically, moving from a million-dollar deficit to a $7 million surplus. Dr. Woods has focused on improving attendance and academic performance while decreasing violent incidents, and setting a safer, more supportive school environment.
A strong advocate for innovative curriculum, Dr. Woods has worked with educational experts Heidi Hayes Jacobs and Robert Marzano to modernize and enrich Aliquippa's academic offerings. These changes include the addition of culturally relevant courses in the Junior-Senior High School, supporting a more inclusive and impactful learning experience. Recognizing the importance of partnerships, he has established a network of community supporters, including Pittsburgh Community Schools, the University of Pittsburgh’s Just Discipline project, and local organizations, to provide services like school-based therapy and job training.
Dr. Woods has also cultivated a groundbreaking partnership with Kraft Heinz, securing a $1.3 million donation to support the construction of the district’s academic and athletic center. Additionally, he collaborated with Kraft Heinz to design the company’s summer internship and School-to-Workforce programs, which offer students invaluable real-world experience and pathways to employment. These initiatives exemplify his commitment to equipping students with the skills and opportunities needed to thrive in a competitive economy.
In addition to academic progress, Dr. Woods has spearheaded significant infrastructure improvements that enhance both school and community facilities. He successfully obtained a Community Development Block Grant to revitalize the Morrell and Elementary School basketball courts, including upgraded backboards and paved parking spaces. At Morrell Field, he oversaw the installation of new lighting and fencing, while at the elementary school site, he added a gazebo, outdoor classroom, and trees to create a more inviting and functional learning environment.
Dr. Woods’ leadership extends to overseeing critical district-wide projects, including a $5 million renovation of the football stadium and ongoing construction of a $4.5 million academic and athletic center. These efforts are complemented by technology upgrades, enhancing students’ access to 21st-century learning tools. His success in securing grants and negotiating contracts for transportation, teacher agreements, and other essential services has infused the district with additional resources and services at minimal cost.
Through his unwavering dedication and strategic vision, Dr. Woods has positioned Aliquippa School District as a model of resilience and growth. By fostering innovative programs, strengthening community partnerships, and prioritizing student success, Dr. Woods continues to ensure that every student has the resources and opportunities needed to excel.
Throughout his career, Dr. Woods has been awarded the John S. Shropshire Graduate Scholarship for academic achievement, the IUP Foundation Doctoral Fellowship Award for Excellence in Teaching and Research, the Carter G. Woodson Outstanding Graduate Student Award, the Dr. Walk Kealey Leadership Award sponsored by the PTA, Tried Stone Baptist Church Men of Excellence Award, the Men of Distinction Award, sponsored by the Women’s Achievement Club, and his work at Woodland Hills was a featured story titled Guiding Principle, in IUP’s alumni magazine, an international publication, Classic Events Excellence in Education award, and the Francette Insurance Group, LLC’s “Love is Action Community Award.” Most recently Dr. Woods was selected as the Most Valuable Principal by the Pittsburgh Penguins Foundation for his innovative approach to learning during Covid 19. 2021 Black Excellence in Education Awardee by the State of Black Learning Organization of Pittsburgh. Outstanding Pittsburghers and Leaders 2024.
Beyond his professional experience, Woods values his family and volunteer experiences. Formerly he volunteered as a chairperson on the board of the Young Gifted and Black Organization (Y.G.B.), as a mentor for the Negro Emergency Education Drive (NEED), Chairman of the board of Duquesne University’s Woodrow Wilson Fellowship Board, Indiana University of Pennsylvania’s Black Experience Alumni Committee, WPIAL Diversity Board, and was an adjunct professor at Carlow University.
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