ALLLENTOWN, Pa. — Allentown School District has a new chief of talent management and labor relations.
Herman C. James was hired at Thursday's school board meeting to lead the district’s talent acquisition, recruitment and human capital strategy.
James "will begin his transition to Allentown in the coming weeks in preparation for the 2025–2026," the district said in a release.
“I am thrilled for the opportunity to bring my experience to the students and families of Allentown."Herman C. James, ASD chief of talent management and labor relations
Before coming to Allentown, James served in a similar administrative role for the Providence Public School District in Rhode Island, according to the release.
In that position, he led a team of 40 staff members and helped reorganize the HR department to align with the district’s strategic plan.
During his tenure, he hired 328 employees, resulting in a 94% success rate in filling vacancies and a 6% increase in teachers of color, the release said.
He also launched a “grow your own” program to cultivate staff members to become teachers.
“I am thrilled for the opportunity to bring my experience to the students and families of Allentown,” James said in a statement.
“There is no greater calling in human resources than helping build the teams that directly impact student success. I look forward to supporting our schools and ensuring Allentown students receive the top-level support they deserve.”
'Recruiting and retaining top-tier educators'
Previously, James also held HR leadership roles in the education field in both the Washington, D.C., and Baltimore metro areas.
Additionally, he has experience as a classroom teacher and administrative intern, supporting instruction in elementary reading, math and science. He was also a school principal.
James’ “proven track record of recruiting and retaining top-tier educators, coupled with a deep commitment to building strong, supportive school environments.”Allentown Schools Superintendent Carol Birks
In a statement, Allentown Superintendent Carol Birks highlighted James’ “proven track record of recruiting and retaining top-tier educators, coupled with a deep commitment to building strong, supportive school environments.”
The hire comes at a time when the Allentown teachers’ union has publicly complained about workplace conditions and the district’s slow response.
According to district data though, staff turnover for 2024-25 has decreased 3.41% from the year before — but that doesn’t yet include turnover from the last few weeks of the school year.
Of the district’s 2,690 employees, there have been 234 separations this year — including retirements, terminations and other departures — for a turnover percent rate of 8.7%.
ASD’s staff turnover rate spiked at 13.48% in the 2021-22 school year just after the COVID-19 pandemic, which is in line with national education employment trends.
The district’s current turnover rate is the lowest in the last six fiscal years.
