In June of 2020, Mr. Cotchen was named the new Head of School at Bishop Carroll Catholic High School. He came to Husky Hill after a decade at Bishop McCort Catholic High School, where he taught Biology, was the Dean of Students, later the Athletic Director and Assistant Principal. He brought with him to BC a wealth of knowledge and new ideas.
Mr. Cotchen attended Clarion University, where he earned his BS and M. Ed degrees. He is the father of two boys, Ethan and Noah, who both attend Divine Mercy Academy in Johnstown.
While Mr. Cotchen attended public school, he is a strong believer in Catholic education. He says that from the first day he walked into his first class at Bishop McCort, his perspective was changed forever and immediately felt the difference in how Catholic schools work to educate and guide students. In his first year at Bishop Carroll, he feels how strongly the community believes in the school and how each teacher, staff member, student, and parent step up to create such a welcoming environment.
His first year at Bishop Carroll was definitely an interesting one. Mr. Cotchen was on top of all the changes and adaptations that had to be made with Covid regulations. He also created an after-school tutoring program to help students struggling in academic areas.
Mr. Cotchen is very proud of some great accomplishments and moments this school year. He is amazed at the seamless incorporation of a brand-new learning management system – Schoology. Teachers responded well in implementing the system and the students were cooperative in the assessments. This program will not only monitor student progress, but also help the staff adjust to the academic needs of everyone. He is also appreciative of the level of communication with all stake holders regarding continuous changes in Covid. No matter what was expected, everyone responded well and cooperated with the constantly changing regulations.
Mr. Cotchen is looking forward to many things with the 2021-2022 school year, including increasing the academic programming for students in many subject areas, opportunities for students to showcase talents in the classroom, on the fields, courts, and stages, and various other avenues, and continuing to walk in our faith as we are faced with an ever-changing world.
When asked what makes Bishop Carroll unique, Mr. Cotchen responded, “Every school calls themselves a family, but in reality, BC is a complete family. Everyone looks out for each other and wants everyone to succeed. I couldn’t be prouder to be part of the Bishop Carroll family, and I look forward to growing the family!”
Thank you, Mr. Cotchen, for your leadership during a most difficult year. We look forward to many years of your leadership here on Husky Hill!