The Reading School Board has appointed Dr. April Halligan-Rostek as the district’s assistant superintendent of operations, promoting a longtime administrator who has served in a variety of teaching and leadership positions over nearly two decades.
Halligan-Rostek, who joined the district in 2007, most recently served as director of human resources, a position she assumed in January 2024.
Dr. April Halligan-Rostek (Courtesy of Reading School District.)
Dr. Khalid N. Mumin, superintendent, nominated Halligan-Rostek for the new position, according to a district release issued last week.
“Dr. Halligan-Rostek’s journey from the classroom to district leadership exemplifies the dedication, compassion and commitment that make the Reading School District special,” Mumin said. “She understands our schools, knows our community, and has consistently demonstrated an extraordinary ability to lead, inspire, and bring people together.”
Halligan-Rostek began her career in Reading as an elementary teacher at Riverside and 16th & Haak elementary schools. She later served as assistant principal and principal of Millmont Elementary School before moving into district administration.
During her tenure as human resources director, the department oversaw a significant increase in hiring.
The district reported 322 new hires during summer 2026, a 105% increase over the previous year. Those hires included more than 100 Reading Education Association members and approximately 200 paraprofessionals.
The district also reported filling 100% of elementary classroom teaching positions, 96% of high school positions, and 92% of middle school positions.
Additionally, the human resources department achieved an 8% reduction in the hourly billing rate for contracted paraprofessionals, according to the release.
Halligan-Rostek holds a doctorate in philosophy of leadership from Alvernia University, a master’s degree in education with principal certification from Cabrini College and a bachelor’s degree in elementary education with a minor in dance from West Chester University.
She also holds a superintendent’s letter of eligibility and certifications in elementary education, middle school English and school administration.
Her professional honors include Excellence in Education Communications awards from the Pennsylvania School Public Relations Association in 2025 and 2026 and the 2019 Legacy of Leadership Award from West Chester University.
Outside her work in public education, Halligan-Rostek served as head coach of Alvernia University’s Spirit Dance Teams from 2013 to 2022. She previously worked as a dance team choreographer at Cabrini College and West Chester University.
Mumin said her experience throughout the district will be an asset in her new role.
“Her appointment is incredibly well-deserved, and we are fortunate to have her continued leadership,” he said.
A district spokesman said no further information was immediately available regarding her salary.
The district did not specify when Halligan-Rostek will begin her new duties or who will succeed her as director of human resources.