Bristol Township School District Educators Complete Leadership Development Program

Two outstanding educators from the Bristol Township School District, Jessica Festa and Michael Zoda, recently completed the Bucks County Leadership Development Fellowship (LDF) program through the Bucks County Intermediate Unit.

Recognizing their dedication to students and professional growth, Chief Academic Officer Amy Coleman nominated Festa and Zoda for the program. Festa has served the district for 25 years in a variety of roles, while Zoda is a science teacher at Truman High School.

This year marked the ninth cohort of the LDF program, which brings together school leaders from districts across Bucks County to earn a certificate of completion. The cohort met monthly from November through May, with each session focusing on topics such as instructional leadership, mindful leadership, and data-informed decision- making.

Although Festa and Zoda regularly collaborate with fellow educators in their current roles, the program provided opportunities to network with leaders in transportation, administration, and other school district departments. Each session began with an icebreaker activity before participants explored new tools and worked collaboratively in groups.

As a result of the program, Festa and Zoda strengthened their evidence-based decision-making skills while building a network of colleagues dedicated to educational leadership throughout Bucks County.

Festa, a strong advocate for literacy and the belief that reading is a fundamental right for all students, has dedicated her career to strengthening literacy practices and supporting educators across the district. She said the program helped her grow professionally as an educational leader.

“The IU Leadership Cohort was a great opportunity to collaborate with educators from across the county, learn from each other’s experiences, and have honest conversations about the challenges and successes we all face in our schools,” Festa said.

Zoda, whose instructional philosophy centers on 100% student participation, said the program provided valuable support and strategies for promoting equitable access to learning. He emphasized the importance of creating learning environments where all students receive the resources, supports, scaffolds, and rigor needed to succeed.

“This cohort has given me the space and opportunity to grow as an educator and leader, learn alongside colleagues from across Bucks County, and prepare for the work of serving our students in Bristol Township,” Zoda said.

Superintendent Michael Nitti attended the LDF certificate presentation ceremony and praised Festa and Zoda for their commitment to professional growth and student success.

“Congratulations to Jessica and Michael for completing such a beneficial and meaningful program,” Nitti said. “They are both outstanding educators who are committed to growing as professionals and finding new and innovative ways to contribute to student achievement. They have very bright futures.”