Head of School

Sam Golder is beginning his second year as Head of School at Newark Charter School.  As a consummate cheerleader for NCS, you may see Mr. Golder around campus celebrating our many student accomplishments.  Mr. Golder’s favorite saying is “There is No Better Time to be a Patriot,” and he believes that wholeheartedly! 

In just one year, Sam has helped raise the bar for Newark Charter’s public relations and branding.  Under his leadership, Newark Charter School has completely overhauled the biweekly bulletin, shown an increased presence on social media and upgraded public facing events like graduation, the auction, athletic signing days, and senior recognition events.

Sam is proud of the Newark Charter School community’s loyalty and generosity, helping to make the 2023-2024 school year one of the best year’s ever from a giving perspective.  As a result of the community’s unwavering support, NCS reached and exceeded the $2.5 million mark on its Capital Campaign.  This campaign was significant in building the beautiful Robert W Gore Stadium.  In the summer of 2024, the state-of-the-art Otello Meucci Performing Arts Center will be complete.  

Sam genuinely loves Newark Charter’s staff and students.  He has created monthly Head of School Awards, brought Delaware’s Teacher of the Year Process to the school, and even initiated a podcast to showcase staff and student talents.  Academically, the Patriots continue to thrive, earning top scores across the state on standardized tests and sending graduates to prestigious colleges and universities across the country.  

Prior to his work at Newark Charter, Sam served as a high school English teacher, championship boys basketball coach, assistant principal, principal and district office supervisor across several schools and districts.  He has received accolades as “Teacher of the Year,” “Coach of the Year” and “Administrator of the Year” over his 27 year educational career.  

Sam’s wife works as the Supervisor of Social Studies for the Red Clay Consolidated School District,  The Golders have three children, a nineteen year old son (Brooks), a twelve year old daughter (Sophia), and a ten year old daughter. (Lizzie)   Sam’s family lives in Hockessin, Delaware.