Allegheny Valley School District retains Rajgopal as finance, business operations director

With numerous capital projects in the works, Allegheny Valley School District has retained its director of finance and business operations.

Board members Wednesday approved a new contract for Hamsini Rajgopal. The contract becomes effective July 1, 2025, and expires June 30, 2030, but board President Nino Pollino said there was a need to extend her contract now.

“We have a lot of projects going on, and we want to definitely retain her services,” Pollino said.

Those upcoming plans include the demolition of Colfax Elementary; renovations to Springdale High School’s front entrance, auditorium and gymnasium lobbies; and upgrades and replacements to district technology.

“She’s done a great job managing that,” Pollino said. “Her insights on what’s going on are valuable to us.”

Rajgopal has been with Allegheny Valley for seven years. She previously worked as business manager in the Clairton City School District and as West Jefferson Hills School District’s human resources director and acting superintendent.

She also fills in when Superintendent Pat Graczyk is out of the district.

The contract calls for a base salary of $133,673 in the 2025-26 school year, which is a 3% increase from the 2024-25 year. Rajgopal is eligible for 3% increases in the following years, pending a “proficient” or “distinguished” review from school officials the prior year.

“I am grateful to the school board for their confidence in my abilities,” Rajgopal said. “I am excited about the opportunity to maintain the sound fiscal health of our district. Tight fiscal oversight and efficient operations help maintain (and) grow student programs and ensure success for all our students.

“The district has numerous, upcoming capital projects that will be funded through prudent planning over the last seven years without incurring additional debt.”