JoAnne Townsend is officially the new principal of Shaler Area High School after serving in an interim capacity since August 2024.
The school board appointed Townsend to the role at its June 17 meeting.
Townsend will be paid $145,700 annually.
“I am honored and grateful for the opportunity to continue serving the Shaler Area community as principal of Shaler Area High School,” Townsend said. “Shaler Area is a truly special place, and I look forward to continuing to work alongside our students, staff, families and community to build upon the strong traditions and opportunities that make our high school exceptional.”
Townsend has been a Shaler Area employee since January 2004, working in leadership roles at the high school and Jeffery Primary School, which closed in 2018. During her tenure, officials said, Townsend was instrumental in expanding student support systems, improving classroom instruction and enhancing collaboration and leadership efforts among staff.
“JoAnne has demonstrated exceptional leadership, professionalism and dedication to the students and staff of Shaler Area High School,” Superintendent Bryan O’Black said. “Throughout the past two years, she has led with integrity, compassion and a clear focus on student success. Her ability to build relationships, support innovative programming and maintain stability during times of change made her the clear choice to continue leading our high school into the future.”
Townsend earned a bachelor’s degree in social studies education from Indiana University of Pennsylvania and a master’s degree in public management in educational leadership from Carnegie Mellon University. She also holds K-12 principal and human resources certifications.