Kyle Hoffman is stepping into a new role as athletic director at Harry S. Truman High School.
Serving the district since 2020 as a health teacher and coach — including girls’ volleyball, basketball and boys’ bowling — Hoffman will now oversee the whole of Truman’s interscholastic athletic program.
“I’m grateful and excited for the opportunity to continue serving the Bristol Township community as athletic director,” Hoffman said. “My focus will be building on our proud traditions and creating meaningful opportunities for every student to learn, lead, compete, perform and belong.”
Athletics to complement classroom learning
Hoffman played softball for her first two years at the College of New Jersey, where she would later graduate with a degree in health and exercise science in 2009.
“I experienced firsthand the lessons athletics can teach, such as discipline, teamwork, resilience, accountability, and how to handle both success and adversity,” Hoffman said.
Athletics offer students a chance to build relationships and develop a sense of belonging outside a classroom setting, according to Hoffman. Playing on a team furthers connection with both the school and the surrounding community.
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Outside of fostering a sense of belonging in school, athletics have proven to be valuable to a student’s academic success.
Studies have demonstrated the correlation between athletics and school performance, citing factors like higher attendance and test scores, as well as lower drop out rates.
“Ultimately, athletics is an extension of the classroom and another avenue to develop well-rounded students who are prepared for life beyond high school,” Hoffman said.
Looking towards the year
Hoffman inherits the role from Tim Monaghan, former athletic director and assistant principal at the high school. Monaghan will continue to serve the Truman community as an assistant principal following the move.
For her first-year in the role, Hoffman looks to build on the “strong foundation” that those who came before her like Monaghan have laid, focusing on student participation and the athletic experience at Truman High School.
“I’m most excited about the opportunity to work with our students and coaches in a different capacity and help build on the traditions and successes of our athletic program,” Hoffman said.
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In her new role, she is aware of the challenges that present themselves. Balancing the demands of the position — as well as serving as an assistant principal at the high school — will take time to get used to.
However, Hoffman is not fazed by potential obstacles in her path.
“I see those challenges as opportunities for growth, and I’m fortunate to be surrounded by people who care deeply about our students and our programs,” Hoffman said.
Truman High School officials spoke highly of Hoffman and what she would bring to the role in the upcoming school year.
“Dr. Hoffman’s leadership, passion for education and commitment to developing well-rounded student-athletes make her an outstanding choice to lead Truman’s athletic program,” said Jon Craig, principal of Truman High School. “We look forward to the positive impact she will have on our students and school community.”
