Credit: Cheltenham High School.
Effective April 9, Dr. Benjamin Hammond has been officially appointed principal of Cheltenham High School (CHS), following his service as interim principal since July 1. The Cheltenham School District (CSD) Board of School Directors approved the appointment during its legislative board meeting on April 8.
Dr. Hammond brings over two decades of service to the CHS community, including the past eight years as vice principal. His longstanding commitment and familiarity with the school make him qualified to lead CHS.
“Selecting Dr. Hammond was about more than just his experience,” stated CSD Superintendent Dr. Brian W. Scriven. “It was a decision grounded in choosing a leader who understands the culture, values, and lived experiences of our high school community. Effective leadership requires both strong managerial and instructional capabilities, as well as deep-rooted understanding of the school environment. Dr. Hammond exemplifies all of these qualities.”
The decision to appoint a leader from within the school community reflects the district’s strategic investment in continuity, trust, and long-term growth.
“Consistent leadership allows us to build on past successes, sustain momentum with key initiatives, and foster a positive, inclusive school climate,” Dr. Scriven added. “Frequent leadership changes can disrupt progress. This appointment ensures we remain on a stable, forward-moving path.”
Throughout his tenure at Cheltenham, Dr. Hammond has been instrumental in cultivating a school culture that prioritizes both academic achievement and students’ social-emotional development. Under his leadership, students have embraced Cheltenham PRIDE—Perseverance, Respect, Integrity, Dependability, and Empathy—as core values. He has also played a pivotal role in broadening course offerings and extracurricular opportunities, significantly enriching the student experience.
Dr. Hammond resides in Bucks County with his wife and two daughters. He holds a doctorate in educational leadership from Saint Joseph’s University, where his dissertation focused on “Cultural Ecological Theory and Black American College Male Perceptions: Successful Coping Strategies towards the Community and Educational System Forces Encountered During their High School Years.” He also holds a master’s degree in education from Gwynedd Mercy University and a bachelor’s degree in computer science from Albright College.
