A Closer Look at our TEPPIES Finalists

published by The TEP Teamupdated   

The Teacher Appreciation Awards, affectionately known as the TEPPIES, are just around the corner, and this year’s 2026 finalists are as inspiring as ever. Their dedication, compassion, and commitment to their students remind us why great teachers change everything.

We created this special feature to celebrate their remarkable careers and the lasting impact they’ve made in classrooms across our community. Whether they’re just starting out or are seasoned veterans, each educator’s story is sure to move you.

Cast your vote for this year’s winners by clicking the link here, but don’t wait! Voting closes May 19th.

Pre-K Teacher of the Year Finalists

Keena Butler, Pittsburgh Lincoln PreK-5

With a Master’s Degree in Education from Carlow University and certification in Early Childhood, I have dedicated over 22 years to the field of early childhood education. I hold a Bachelor’s Degree in Instructional Studies from Point Park University and have been a proud member of Pittsburgh Public Schools since 2015. Currently, I serve as an Early Childhood Teacher at Lincoln Pre-K to 5th Grade. As a mother of four, I am passionate about nurturing young minds and fostering a love of learning. My commitment is to continue building a strong educational foundation for every child I teach.

Valrose Motley-Barnes is a Pre-K teacher at Pittsburgh Dilworth PreK-5, where she has dedicated over 30 years to nurturing the youngest learners. Known for her boundless energy and belief that young minds are capable of limitless growth, Mrs. Barnes designs rigorous, individualized learning experiences that push students well beyond standard benchmarks, from spelling and writing their names to reading and counting to 100. Her legendary storytelling transforms every read-aloud into a captivating performance, igniting a lifelong love of literacy. With patience, joy, and an unwavering commitment to equity, Mrs. Barnes remains a cornerstone of her school community. 

For the past 13 years, I’ve had the privilege of being an early childhood educator, and I can honestly say my love for Pre-K has only grown deeper with time. There is something truly special about these early years: the curiosity, the honesty, and the joy that children bring into the classroom every single day.

My goal has always been simple: to create a classroom where students feel safe, loved, and excited to learn exactly as they are.

I believe deeply in the power of authentic relationships and in the everyday moments that make early learning so meaningful: the laughter, the curiosity, the little breakthroughs, and the quiet but powerful growth of confidence over time.

Along with my degree in Early Childhood Education, I also hold a Master’s in Learning, Design, and Technology and a Program Specialist certification in English as a Second Language (PK–12). But at the heart of it all, I just want my students to feel confident, supported, and proud of themselves from the very beginning.

My last 6 years of teaching have been spent at PPS Linden alongside my wonderful co-teacher, Ms. Tao. We are so grateful for the families and little learners we’ve built meaningful relationships with and get to grow alongside each and every day.

Early childhood education means so much to me, and I feel incredibly lucky to do this work every day. It’s something I will always advocate for; ensuring young learners and early childhood education are recognized and valued, because the foundation we build in these early years truly lasts a lifetime.

Elementary Teacher Of The Year Finalists

Kelly Binning, Pittsburgh West Liberty Pre K-5

I began my journey in special education 26 years ago in the Los Angeles Unified School District, and from the very beginning, this work has been about more than a job. It has been about showing up for children who need someone to believe in them, advocate for them, and sometimes convince them that yes, we are in fact doing math today.

Over the years, I have served as a classroom teacher, content specialist, coordinator, mentor and administrator, working in classrooms ranging from emotional support to resource settings across Los Angeles, San Francisco, and Pittsburgh. Every role has reinforced the same truth. Kids do not care what your title is. They care that you show up, that you listen, and that you have snacks or at least a really good pencil.

When I joined Pittsburgh Public Schools, I stepped into a role that has been both challenging and incredibly meaningful. As a teacher who floats through low incidence classrooms, I move from school to school, supporting students and teachers wherever I am needed. I also understand what it feels like to be new. Even with many years under my belt, I am learning a new system, new expectations, and a new culture. I’ve even picked up a bit of Pittsburghese along the way. The opportunity to learn PPS’s approach has challenged and enriched me, fostering both humility and professional growth. I took this position to grow, to learn, and to better understand the needs of this district, and I continue to do so every day.

Many of the teachers I support are out on maternity leave or medical leave. Just like any teacher, they deserve that time to heal, to rest, or to bond with their new babies. As a parent who once took maternity leave, I feel incredibly lucky to step in and offer them peace of mind, knowing their students are in the hands of a seasoned teacher who is truly giving everything they have every day. My students, especially in low incidence classrooms, need the most patience, structure, and expertise. Because of the nature of their disabilities, they deserve the very best, and I take that responsibility seriously.

Beyond the classroom, I am committed to building inclusive communities. Most recently, I led my school’s Neurodiversity Awareness Month activities, helping to increase awareness and understanding among typical peers. My goal was to support students in feeling more comfortable with differences, fostering empathy, respect, and a culture where all students are accepted and valued.

I see my role as deeply important. For many of these students, consistency matters, and even in a temporary space, they deserve stability, care, and high quality instruction. I strive to bring that into every classroom I enter, every single day.

I am a 3rd grade ELA and Social Studies teacher who loves bringing joy and fun into the classroom through interactive activities, some of which even involve our class pet, Reese’s Cup the leopard gecko! Outside of school, I coach volleyball and enjoy being outdoors. I love spending time with my family, especially my adorable niece and nephew!

I am a proud educator with 20 years of experience in Pittsburgh Public Schools, including the past 15 years at Pittsburgh King, where I currently teach first grade. I am deeply passionate about helping young learners build strong academic foundations while growing into confident, kind, and resilient individuals.

I believe in the power of relationships and strive to create a classroom where every child feels safe, valued, and excited to learn each day. Watching my students grow (both academically and personally) is what inspires me and fuels my commitment to teaching.

When I am not in the classroom, I enjoy spending time with my husband and our two amazing children, who inspire me daily and remind me of what matters most.

To me, teaching is more than a career. It’s a calling. My greatest hope is that every child who leaves my classroom remembers that they are loved, they matter, and they can achieve anything.

Middle School Teacher of the Year Finalists

Krista Berger, New Brighton Middle School

After a decade in public education, I’ve learned that school libraries can be transformative, life-changing safe havens. As a school librarian serving over 600 students across two schools, I work every day to create a space that feels warm, welcoming, and magical from the moment you step through the doors. A place where students from all walks of life are seen, heard, and eager to belong. When students feel safe enough to share their interests, explore new ideas, and approach challenges with curiosity and confidence, I know the library is doing what it’s meant to do. I believe every child, regardless of their zip code, deserves a vibrant library that responds to their needs and nurtures their potential. At the heart of my work is trust. By being my authentic self and showing my community what a modern school library looks and feels like, they trust me to guide their children through the highs and lows of growing up. Mentorship is a quiet but essential part of my work – being a positive presence, offering guidance and support, and showing students what it means to work hard, do right by people, and be a part of something bigger than yourself. 

Krista Berger is a proud graduate of Ambridge Area High School, PennWest University Clarion, and Western Governors University.

Lisa Paleos Fevola is a National Board Certified Teacher for English Language Arts — Adolescence and Young Adulthood, earning that certification initially as a high school teacher at Pittsburgh Westinghouse High School in November 2009, and recertifying for 10 years at Pittsburgh Creative and Performing Arts 6-12 in November 2019.

Holding two Masters of Arts Degrees, one in Curriculum and Instruction from Gannon University (2009) and the other in English with a Concentration in Creative Non-Fiction Writing, from Southern New Hampshire University (2017), Lisa has been a teacher in public schools since 2000. She left law for the classroom when, after being diagnosed with the first brain tumor, asked herself, “If I were to die tomorrow, have I lived a purposeful life?” and responded internally, “No.” She told herself to change her life, to go back to school, earn a teaching credential, and then give back to others all that she had been gifted by teachers like Ms. Harriet Panetta-Hanzely at Churchill High School. Having left the legal profession for the classroom to honor those who had provided her with the love of learning, critical thinking, and analytical reading and writing, Lisa began her teaching career in Fontana, California at Kaiser High School, a Title I school. She moved back to Pennsylvania in 2004 to care for her aging mother, Sonia Paleos, who was her first and most important influence as a teacher and social activist.

Lisa began her Pennsylvania teaching career at Franklin Regional High School in 2005. She moved to Pittsburgh Public in 2006, working first at Westinghouse for 4 years and then at University Preparatory for 7 years.

She was recognized as one of the 101 finalists for Teachers of Excellence of Southwestern Pennsylvania in April 2008 and has been recognized in Who’s Who Among America’s High School Teachers before leaving high school teaching for middle school in 2017. She is Phi Beta Kappa, having graduated from Washington & Jefferson College summa cum laude when dinosaurs were still roaming the earth.

She holds Pennsylvania teaching credentials for both English and Social Studies for grades 7-12. Teaching has been her passion for the last 26 years, and her greatest joy is seeing her students and mentees far exceed her own accomplishments—mentees like Denise Lynn Jones. The newly minted Dr. Jones’ successful defense of her Ph.D. Doctoral dissertation was watched online by some of Lisa’s 8 th grade CAPA ELA students. They marveled at the idea that someone wrote a 300-page dissertation and had to present and field questions for almost 2 hours. They asked insightful questions and listened intently to the discussions of the dissertation panel. Watching their admiration made Lisa kvell.

Today, when Lisa asks herself, “If I were to die tomorrow, have I lived a purposeful life?” the answer is a resounding, “Yes!”

My name is Maria Frasier, and I am deeply honored to be nominated as a finalist for Middle School Teacher of the Year. I have been an educator for 22 years, including 11 years at New Horizon School, with 18 of those years dedicated to the emotional support classroom.

From the very beginning, I knew my purpose was to serve in special education, supporting students who may otherwise be overlooked and helping them discover their strengths, confidence, and voice. My teaching is grounded in the belief that strong relationships, consistency, and high expectations create the foundation for student success. My journey into teaching, however, was not a traditional one. I earned my bachelor’s degrees in Human Resources and Accounting from Geneva College, and during that time, I also became a licensed behavior specialist, working with troubled youth in the home, school, and community. It was through these experiences that I felt a calling to shift my path toward education.

While in college, I was deeply involved in youth mentorship, directing a youth choir, teaching Sunday school, leading holiday and special programs, and coaching cheerleading, dance, soccer, and a 5th and 6th grade girls’ basketball team. These experiences affirmed my passion for working with children and ultimately led me to leave my career path in business to pursue education full time.

I returned to Geneva College to earn my elementary education certification and later obtained my master’s degree in Special Education, along with Master Teacher and Supervisory certifications, from Slippery Rock University. Most recently, I completed additional coursework through Carlow University to earn my Program Specialist certification in English as a Second Language.

Beyond the classroom, I am an active member of the PTO and am committed to building meaningful connections between school and community. I have helped organize The Education Partnership, a program that provides essential classroom resources and supplies, as well as Tickets for Kids, which offers students access to enriching experiences such as NFL, MLB, and NHL games, parks, museums, and other local events.

Teaching is more than a profession for me. It is a calling. I am most proud of the growth I see in students who enter my classroom feeling discouraged or disconnected and leave with increased confidence, self-regulation skills, and a belief in their own ability to succeed. Each day, I strive to create a supportive, inclusive environment where every student feels seen, valued, and capable of success.

High School Teacher of the Year Finalists

Kaitlyn Emes, Aliquippa Jr. Sr. High

I didn’t originally set out to become a teacher. I earned my BA in Visual and Performing Arts from the University of Pittsburgh at Greensburg and planned to stay within that world, but a summer job as a teaching assistant with the Pittsburgh Ballet through Attack Theater shifted everything for me. I was asked to help teach elementary movement classes at my old school through the Summer Dreamers program, and while I quickly realized elementary wasn’t the age group for me, I also realized I had found something I truly loved. That fall, I began working as a building substitute at Brashear High School—my alma mater—while earning my M.Ed. in Secondary English. It was there that I really grew into myself as an educator and had the opportunity to revive and direct the theater program that had begun to fade after I graduated in 2013. Over time, I’ve stepped back from directing to focus on building my family and becoming a more grounded, present teacher. I know I’ll find my way back to theater one day, but for now, I’m passionate about encouraging my students to think beyond what they believe is their path and to recognize their own potential. Being nominated for Teacher of the Year is incredibly humbling, and I see it as a reflection of the journey that brought me here and the students who continue to inspire me every day. 

My name is Ellen Eyth and I am in my 16th year teaching at South Allegheny. I graduated from McKeesport High School in 1995. I received my Bachelor’s of Liberal Arts from Duquesne University in 1999. I later certified to teach Art K-12 at California University of Pennsylvania in 2010. I am also certified to teach Tech Ed K-12.

My dual certification allows me to teach a wide variety of subjects and grade levels during a school day. I teach various levels of computer graphics & design classes as well as a high school watercolor class. My production class features hands-on projects that incorporate a laser, banner making, a 3D printer, sublimation, apparel sales, and indoor and outdoor vinyl work. My production students are learning how to run a small business. I also have the pleasure of teaching an AP Art History class where I try to immerse my students in art experiences in museums and collaborations with local organizations and schools.

I have sponsored many student groups over the years at South Allegheny. I have been the sponsor of Expect Respect for 12 years and I co-sponsor SA’s Eradicate Hate group. Expect Respect is a student-led group that focuses on promoting healthy dating relationships and awareness for domestic violence while Eradicate Hate is dedicated to delivering actionable ideas to prevent all forms of hate-fueled violence. I’m also the Department Chair for Electives and handle all the graphic arts work for the South Allegheny School District.

I’m the proud mother of 3 sons: Ryland (25), Liam (21) and Ivan (12). I’ve been married to Erick Eyth for 15 years. We also have a Great Dane (Willie) and a Golden Retriever (Boomer). I’m also a real estate agent and enjoy helping people buy and sell houses while making extra money. In the summer, I spend lots of time enjoying our pool with friends and family as well as constantly adding and tending to my perennial garden in the front of our house.

My name is Shyanne Rippole, and I am a high school English teacher at Sto-Rox Junior Senior High School, a place that means a great deal to me. Being able to return to this community and serve my students in the same halls that helped shape me is something I carry with a deep sense of pride and responsibility.

I currently teach 9th-grade English and 11th-grade American Literature, focusing not only on building strong readers and writers but also on helping students grow into confident, capable individuals. I believe that before students can learn, they need to feel safe, seen, and valued, and building trust is at the center of everything I do.

I earned my degree from Point Park University and hold certifications in Secondary English Education and K-12 Special Education. I have been teaching for 4 years, and am currently pursuing my Master’s degree at Point Park University in Educational Leadership to obtain my principal certification.  

Beyond school, I previously served on the Sto-Rox School Board and am now serving as a Commissioner in Stowe Township, continuing my commitment to giving back to the community that made me who I am.

At the heart of everything I do is a simple belief: every student deserves to feel worthwhile, no matter where they come from. My core belief is to leave things better than you found them, and I strive to instill that mindset in my students each day. 

Rookie Teacher of the Year Finalists

Andrew Banks, Manchester Academic Charter School

Andrew Banks, born and raised in Manchester on Pittsburgh’s North Side, is a Minecraft and Technology teacher at Manchester Academic Charter School, where he was once a student. His love for children began under Dr. Betty and James Robinson, when he played with children in the nursery for 5 dollars a day in the 5th grade. He brings both heart and creativity to everything he does. He’s known not just for his strong work ethic, but for the way he connects with others and makes learning meaningful. One of the most unique ways he does this is by using Minecraft as an innovative teaching tool—turning a game students love into a space for collaboration, problem-solving, and real engagement. Andrew’s ability to think outside the box, combined with his genuine care for others, makes a lasting impact in the classroom and beyond. 

My name is Lauren Ferragonio, and I’m in my first year as a certified Special Education Teacher at Sto-Rox Jr./Sr. High School—and I’m honored to be a Rookie Teacher of the Year finalist. I actually started in the district back in 2022 as the Head of Security/School Resource Officer, and it didn’t take long for me to fall in love with the students, staff, and community. Since then, I’ve worn a lot of different hats—summer custodian, interim athletic director, ESY teacher, building sub, and head coach of three sports—all while earning my master’s degree in Special Education from Slippery Rock University.

My students are really what pushed me to go all in on special education. Even though my undergrad is in Criminal Justice, I always had teaching in the back of my mind, and being here made it clear this is where I’m meant to be. I love finding ways to give students more opportunities, both in and out of the classroom. One of the most monumental things I’ve been able to do is help bring girls flag football to Sto-Rox through the Pittsburgh Steelers Pilot Program, which quickly turned into an official sport through the PIAA as of this year. Watching those girls grow has honestly been one of the most rewarding experiences. Seeing them gain confidence, step into leadership roles, and truly start to see themselves as athletes has been both incredible and deeply moving.This year three of my seniors have received and accepted offers to play in college and have their education paid for. Watching them earn these opportunities through their hard work and dedication has been incredibly rewarding, and it’s something I’m extremely proud to be a part of.

I’ve also had the opportunity to coach Unified Bocce this year, which was especially meaningful as it was our first year bringing the program back. We ended up winning the Pittsburgh Division Championship and advanced to regionals. I couldn’t be prouder of my athletes and partners, especially my partners who also play flag football for me, and the kind, inclusive leaders they are. The way they support each other and build a positive team culture is something really special.

Outside of school, football is still a huge part of my life. I’m heading into my 14th season with the Pittsburgh Passion, where I’ve won two national championships. In 2017, I was selected to play on the United States Women’s National Tackle Football Team and won a gold medal, which was an incredible experience. Football has given me so many life lessons, friendships, and memories that I carry with me into coaching and teaching every day.

When I’m not at school or on the field, I like working on DIY projects, traveling with my partner Shelby, and spending time with family and friends. I am incredibly blessed to have the best support system out there. Without them, none of this would be possible.

Inspired by Fred Rogers’ philosophy to “look for the helpers,” I entered the field of education following the example of my parents, Rebecca and Rodger Hutzell, both long-time educators who demonstrated the lasting impact of service. As a first-year chemistry teacher at Frazier High School, I combine my love of science with this helper mindset, drawing on past experiences as a chemistry researcher, tutor, and chemistry camp counselor. My classroom focus goes beyond theory; by engaging students in hands-on experiments like the iodine clock and chemical chameleon reactions, and visits to the Allegheny Observatory, I strive to show them how chemistry is directly woven into the world around them.

This year has been deeply rewarding as I have built strong rapport with my students, colleagues, and the Perryopolis community. I am committed to supporting my students’ growth both in the lab and through their extracurricular pursuits. Whether my current or former students are on or off the stage of the Frazier auditorium for musical performances, on the field for marching band or football, a part of track, baseball, or volleyball teams, or are interested in the high school chess tournament, I look forward to continuing my support of students and fellow colleagues. It is a profound honor to be nominated for this first-year teacher award and to be recognized as a finalist for doing work that I find so incredibly fulfilling.

Outstanding Non-Instructional/ Support Staff Finalists

Laryce Anderson, Pittsburgh Linden K-5

My name is Laryce Anderson and I am currently employed with the Pittsburgh Public Schools, at Pittsburgh Linden School as a EA111A Learning Support Paraprofessional.

Before I began my career with Pittsburgh Public Schools, my previous career was with the United States Postal Service until I retired. I held numerous positions with the Postal Service such as a Mail handler, Acting Tour Supervisor and Power Equipment Operator. While working for the Postal Service, I also worked and continue to work as a realtor.

I began my career with the Pittsburgh Public School District working for Mercy Behavioral Health. Which is affiliated with Pittsburgh Public Schools. I was at several schools in the district until I came to Pittsburgh Linden.

I am presently an EAIIIA Learning Support Paraprofessional at Pittsburgh Linden. My various duties consist of Bus duty, Breakfast and Lunch duty, and administering tests such as Firefly and Diebels, along with being the Tripod Coordinator and School Assessment Coordinator, while assisting with the Royal Leaders Club.

I do interventions with young children to help them through with their everyday challenges of life. I have an RTII group which meets four times a week to help with their reading fluency. I tend to do more jobs that are unseen in school, rather than seen.

I try to exceed all expectations of my life. During the summer months, I also work at the EECM Day Camp. Where I am the Life Skills Supervisor, working with children in the community to help give them outside experiences and faith-based guidance on life’s problems.

I am a lifelong member of Macedonia Church where I was raised and continue to be involved. I have served in numerous capacities in the church such as Young Adult Choir and as a door greeter. I feel that I am a person who wears many hats and have had numerous careers in my lifetime.

I have many passions, one of my passions in life is my writing, I am now a published author with three poetry books and working on many more books. My other passion is my family and good friends whom I love and admire for various reasons. They are the anchors in my life.

Emily has been a proud part of the Pittsburgh Langley community for the past five years, including the last four as a paraprofessional in the middle school AS classroom. In that role, she has found a passion for supporting students both academically and emotionally, and works hard to create a space where every student feels seen, valued, and capable of success. This year, she also stepped into a new role as Langley’s Unified Bocce coach, a fun and rewarding experience for both her and her students.

Outside of the classroom, Emily has rediscovered her love of reading and has been excited to share that passion with others. She’s built a Little Free Library at her home, created one for Langley’s staff, and even raised funds to provide e-readers for students to borrow so they can enjoy books on their own time.

While Emily holds both a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Communication, her experience in the classroom helped her realize that education is where she truly belongs. She cares deeply about building strong, meaningful relationships with her students and believes those connections are at the heart of impactful learning. Looking ahead, Emily is excited to continue growing in her role and making a positive, lasting difference in the lives of the students she works with.

I am honored to be nominated for the Non-Instructional/Support Staff of the Year Award. This is my fourth year as a school counselor at Washington Junior High School, where I am dedicated to supporting students in any way they need to succeed. I am grateful to work alongside such a committed and caring staff, all of whom share the goal of helping our junior high students grow both academically and personally.

I earned my bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education from California University of Pennsylvania, where I also obtained my PreK–4 certification. I went on to earn my master’s degree in School Counseling from Saint Vincent College, along with my K–12 School Counseling certification. Most recently, I completed a second master’s degree in Educational Administration from Duquesne University and will soon take the certification exam. I also plan to pursue my Pupil Personnel certification in the coming year.

Principal of the Year Finalists

Vanessa Boyd, Broad Street Elementary School

The Visionary Behind the Lighthouse

Vanessa Boyd, affectionately known as Principal Boyd by her team, families, and scholars, serves as the heart and driving force of Broad Street Elementary School. A dedicated public servant with years of committed service to education, Vanessa has redefined the role of school leadership through a lens of creativity, support, and radical collaboration. Under her guidance, Broad Street has transformed into a “Collaborative Community School”—a vibrant ecosystem where staff, scholars, parents, and community partners unite to holistically develop the leaders of tomorrow.

A Philosophy of Care: “Treat Before We Teach”

At the core of Vanessa’s leadership is a profound understanding of the human element in education. Her guiding mantra, “We must treat before we teach,” reflects her unwavering commitment to meeting the fundamental needs of every scholar first. This focus on emotional intelligence and well-being has fostered a welcoming culture so infectious that staff members frequently volunteer beyond their contractual time, emerging as Change Agents and leaders in their own right. Under her watch, Broad Street isn’t just a place of employment; it is a space where stakeholders at every level find the opportunity to grow, achieve, and thrive.

An Innovative Learning Landscape

Vanessa’s determination and passion have led to a school day rich with intentional exposure. She has masterfully blended traditional academics with unique opportunities that prepare scholars for the world at large, including:

  • Agriculture & Career Exploration: Connecting scholars to the earth and their future paths.
  • Unique Musical Opportunities: Fostering rhythm, soul, and creative expression.
  • Citizenship & Leadership: Building the character required to lead with integrity.
  • Vibrant Joy: Ensuring every school event and activity is “seasoned” with love, making learning an experience to be celebrated.

The Lighthouse of the Community

Principal Boyd views the surrounding community not as a separate entity, but as a well of potential that supports the school’s mission. She has worked tirelessly to bridge the gap between home and school, ensuring that parents and guardians have the tools and resources necessary to support their children’s success.

To Vanessa, Broad Street Elementary School is more than a building; it is a Lighthouse. It stands as a beacon of hope and a center for growth, offering a safe harbor for anyone seeking a path forward. Vibrant, innovative, and deeply caring, Principal Boyd continues to prove that when a school leads with love and community, there is no limit to what its scholars can achieve.

Robert Hall serves as the principal of Dr. Cleveland Steward Jr. Elementary School in the Gateway School District. He views this recognition not as an individual accomplishment, but as a reflection of the collective efforts of the students, staff, and families he is fortunate to serve each day. With a background in special education, Robert leads with a strong belief that every student deserves access to meaningful support and high-quality instruction. His work focuses on building a positive school culture, strengthening instructional practices, and supporting teachers in their professional growth. He believes effective schools are built on trust, consistency, and strong relationships. Robert remains committed to developing leaders within his building and creating an environment where all students can succeed. 

Dr. Lisa M. Mumau is finishing her second year with the Sto-Rox School District, as Sto-Rox Primary Center Principal.  She brings with her a distinguished record of service in educational leadership and student support.  Prior to Sto-Rox, Dr. Mumau served as Director of Pupil Services in the Steel Valley School District and most recently an elementary Assistant Principal at  Ringgold School District, where she championed academic excellence, school improvement, restorative practices, student discipline, and attendance initiatives.  Dr. Mumau holds advanced degrees in psychology, counselor education, and educational administration, as well as a doctorate in educational leadership.  She completed her Superintendent Certification Program at Duquesne University and is currently completing her Special Education Teaching Certification at Slippery Rock University—demonstrating her unwavering commitment to lifelong learning and professional excellence.

Her career in education began with 14 years of dedicated service as an elementary and middle school counselor.  During that time, she also maintained a private practice as a Licensed Professional Counselor, providing compassionate care and support to children, adolescents, and adults.  This dual commitment reflects her deep-rooted passion for serving the whole child and strengthening the well-being of individuals and families.  Dr. Mumau continues to invest in her professional growth through advanced training in school improvement, trauma-informed care, de-escalation strategies, and restorative practices. Beyond the K–12 setting, she serves as an adjunct professor in the Psychology Department at Point Park University and Westmoreland County Community College, where she mentors and prepares the next generation of professionals in human services and education.

A dedicated advocate for community engagement, Dr. Mumau works collaboratively with Pittsburgh Area Communities in Schools (PACS) and Focus on Renewal (FOR) to expand opportunities, enhance student support, and strengthen meaningful connections between schools and the communities they serve.  Her leadership reflects a belief that strong partnerships are essential to student success.  Dr. Mumau would like to express her deepest gratitude to the mentors and colleagues who have guided and inspired her throughout her journey, including Dr. Janet Sardon, Dr. Fran Serenka, Dr. Stephanie McHugh, Dr. Barb Pagan, and Dr. Holly Pope. Their wisdom, encouragement, and example have left a lasting impact on her personal and professional life.

She also extends her sincere appreciation to Sto-Rox School District Superintendent Mrs. Sonya Coleman, the Board of School Directors, Mr. Tim Liparulo, SRPC faculty and staff, students—both past and present—families, and community members. Their collective dedication, partnership, and shared commitment to excellence continue to make a meaningful difference in the lives of children each day. Dr. Mumau is honored to serve the Sto-Rox Primary Center and remains deeply committed to supporting students and families through outreach, service, and strong school-to-home connections. With great pride, she embraces the spirit of the district and looks forward to continuing the important work of ensuring that all learners are truly STO-ROX STRONG.  Grounded in her experiences as a counselor, educator, and leader, Dr. Mumau’s work is guided by a core belief: “Every child deserves to be seen, heard, and supported—when schools, families, and communities come together, we create the conditions for every learner to thrive.”