Superintendent Search

Announcement - February 3, 2026: SGASD Board Approves New Superintendent

At the February 2, 2026, School Board Regular Voting Meeting, the Spring Grove Area School District Board of School Directors approved the appointment of Dr. Daphne Kirkpatrick as the District’s next Superintendent of Schools. Dr. Kirkpatrick will begin her role on or before July 1, 2026. Dr. Renaut will continue to serve as Acting Superintendent until the transition takes place.

Dr. Kirkpatrick brings more than 25 years of experience in public education, beginning her career in school support roles before becoming an elementary teacher in 1998. Her time in the classroom continues to shape her student-centered approach, while her earlier roles as a paraprofessional and building secretary foster a deep respect for every position within a school and inform her collaborative leadership style.

Throughout her career, she has served in a variety of district-level leadership roles focused on curriculum, instruction, technology integration, and long-term planning. She has led major instructional initiatives, supported professional learning for educators, and guided districts through strategic and comprehensive planning efforts. Most recently, Dr. Kirkpatrick served as Assistant Superintendent of the Elizabethtown Area School District, following nine years as Director of Education at the Milton Area School District. She holds a Ph.D. in Educational Leadership from The Pennsylvania State University, along with degrees in instructional technology and elementary education from Bloomsburg University.

"Spring Grove’s proud history and strong sense of community are exactly what drew me to this role,” stated Dr. Kirkpatrick. “I am truly honored by the Board’s trust and confidence in me as the next leader of the Spring Grove Area School District. I am excited and look forward to serving our students, supporting our staff, and partnering with families and the community to ensure every student has the opportunity to succeed."

Board President Douglas White shared, “The Board is confident that Dr. Kirkpatrick is the right leader for Spring Grove Area School District. Throughout the search process, she consistently demonstrated a deep understanding of teaching and learning, a collaborative leadership style, and a genuine commitment to serving students, staff, and the community. We appreciate the thoughtful input provided by our community and stakeholders, which helped guide this important decision, and we look forward to welcoming Dr. Kirkpatrick to Spring Grove.”

The Board extends its sincere thanks to the families, staff, and community members who participated in the Superintendent Search process and provided valuable input along the way. That engagement helped guide the Board’s work and decision-making.

Meet Our Next Superintendent: Dr. Daphne Kirkpatrick

Dr. Daphne Kirkpatrick brings more than 25 years of experience in public education, grounded in teaching, learning, and service. She began her career as a one-to-one support paraprofessional in a special education classroom and later served as a building secretary and instructional support paraprofessional before returning to college to pursue a degree in education. These experiences continue to shape her respect for every role within a school system.

Dr. Kirkpatrick began her teaching career in 1998 as an elementary teacher in the Danville Area School District, teaching multiple grade levels and integrating technology into instruction to support student learning. That classroom foundation continues to shape her student-centered approach to educational leadership.

She went on to serve in a variety of district-level leadership roles that blend curriculum development, instructional improvement, and technology initiatives. In Danville, Dr. Kirkpatrick served as Director of Technology and later as Director of Curriculum, Instruction, and Technology, where she led professional development focused on 21st-century teaching and learning and guided a districtwide K–12 curriculum revision and mapping process. She later served the Midd-West School District as Acting Superintendent, Assistant Superintendent, and Director of Curriculum, Instruction, and Technology, overseeing district operations, strategic planning, and major initiatives, including a successful 1:1 laptop program and the establishment of the district’s first Pre-K program.

From 2014 to 2023, Dr. Kirkpatrick served as Director of Education at the Milton Area School District, where she led teaching and learning programs and guided long-term strategic and comprehensive planning. She most recently served as Assistant Superintendent at the Elizabethtown Area School District.

Dr. Kirkpatrick holds a Ph.D. in Educational Leadership from The Pennsylvania State University, a master’s degree in Instructional Technology, a bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education from Bloomsburg University, and an associate degree in Spanish, earned after completing her doctorate.

Dr. Kirkpatrick brings a thoughtful and collaborative leadership style, grounded in clear communication and relationship-building. She is committed to supporting safe, inclusive learning environments where students and staff can succeed.

Dr. Kirkpatrick will begin her role as Superintendent of the Spring Grove Area School District on or before July 1, 2026.

Superintendent Search Overview

The Spring Grove Area School District’s superintendent search began in September 2025 and followed a deliberate, transparent, and community-informed process led by the Board of School Directors. To ensure clear and ongoing communication, the District launched the Superintendent Search webpage in September to share updates, information, and opportunities for engagement with families, staff, and the community throughout the process.

Timeline

September 2025 – The Board of School Directors began discussions on the approach to the superintendent search and reached consensus to pursue a hybrid search model.
September 22, 2025 – At a Special Study Forum, the Board agreed to investigate a hybrid superintendent search approach.
October 13, 2025 – At the Board Voting Meeting, the Board approved an agreement with the Pennsylvania Association of Rural and Small Schools (PARSS) and selected Dr. Edward Albert as the District’s search consultant.
November 2025 – Community engagement occurred through multiple avenues:
- A Community Forum (livestreamed and recorded)
- A Community Survey
- Staff meetings at each school conducted by Dr. Albert
- All input was compiled and shared publicly on this webpage.
Late 2025 – Early 2026 – Following the application deadline, the search entered a confidential phase, during which candidates were screened, interviewed, and background and reference checks were completed in collaboration with the consultant.
Final Stage – The Board convened a stakeholder panel representing a cross-section of district staff and community members. Panel participants observed the finalist’s presentation and responses to questions and provided feedback.
- After reviewing all feedback and conducting further deliberation, the Board recommended consideration of Dr. Daphne Kirkpatrick for appointment as Superintendent of Schools, with the recommendation placed on the agenda as a voting action item.
February 2, 2026 – At the School Board Voting Meeting, the Board voted unanimously to appoint Dr. Daphne Kirkpatrick as Superintendent of Schools.

A Thank You from the Board of School Directors

The Spring Grove Area School District Board of School Directors extends its sincere gratitude to our students, staff, families, and community members who participated in the superintendent search process.

From attending the Community Forum and completing the survey to sharing feedback and engaging in thoughtful dialogue, your input played an important role in shaping this process. The Board carefully reviewed community and staff feedback at every stage, and your voices helped guide our decisions.

We are also grateful to the stakeholder panel members who generously gave their time and perspective, and to district staff who supported the process behind the scenes.

Thank you for your engagement, trust, and commitment to Spring Grove Area School District. Your involvement reflects the strong partnership between our schools and community and helped ensure a thoughtful and inclusive search for our next Superintendent of Schools.

Opportunities for Community Input

Community Survey Closed - Results Available

The Superintendent Search Community Survey was open from October 27 through November 20, 2025, and invited input from staff, families, students, and community members. The purpose of the survey was to gather feedback on the leadership qualities, experiences, and priorities that are most important to our school community as the Board develops the candidate profile for the next Superintendent of Schools.

Survey results were presented to the Board at the December 2, 2025, School Board Reorganization/Voting Meeting and are now available for public review.

View Community Survey Results

Community Forum - Watch the Recording

On Wednesday, November 5, 2025, the Spring Grove Area School District hosted a Community Forum at Spring Grove Area Middle School to engage families, staff, and community members in the Superintendent Search process.

During the forum, Dr. Edward Albert, the District’s superintendent search consultant from PARSS, provided an overview of the search process and answered questions from attendees. Participants also had the opportunity to share the qualities, experiences, and priorities they hope to see in the next Superintendent of Schools.

If you were unable to attend, you can watch the recording below.

Visits With School Staff

As part of the superintendent search process, Dr. Albert conducted on-site visits at each school building to meet with staff and gather feedback on the priorities and leadership qualities desired in the next superintendent. These sessions provided staff members with a focused opportunity to share their experiences and perspectives.

All scheduled visits were completed by November 10, 2025. A summary of the feedback collected during these building visits is included in the Building Campouts Report, available on the Community Survey Results webpage.

View the Building Campouts Report

Superintendent Search Updates

January 30, 2026: Board Recommendation for Superintendent of Schools

The Spring Grove Area School District Board of School Directors will consider the appointment of Dr. Daphne Kirkpatrick for Superintendent of Schools at the Monday, February 2, 2026, School Board Voting Meeting. The recommendation will be presented as a voting action item at that time.

Since entering the confidential phase of the Superintendent Search in December, the Board has continued to work closely with its search consultant, Dr. Edward Albert, to screen candidates, conduct interviews, and complete background and reference checks. Interview questions were thoughtfully developed to reflect both Board members’ areas of focus and feedback gathered from the community through the public forum and survey. The Board appreciates the community’s participation, as this input helped inform the interview process.

As a final step, the Board sought additional community input by convening a panel representing a cross-section of district staff and community members. Panel participants observed the finalist’s presentation and responses to questions and provided feedback, which was reviewed by the Board. After careful consideration of this feedback and further deliberation, the Board determined that Dr. Daphne Kirkpatrick would be recommended for a vote on the February 2nd Board Voting Meeting agenda.

Dr. Kirkpatrick currently serves as Assistant Superintendent of the Elizabethtown Area School District, a role she has held for the past three years. Previously, she served for nine years as Director of Education for the Milton Area School District. She began her career in education as an elementary teacher and later served in leadership roles overseeing curriculum, instruction, and technology services.

The public is welcome and encouraged to attend the February 2 meeting, which will be held at Spring Grove Area Middle School in LGI #242 (enter at Door #15 at the back of the building). Following the meeting, attendees are invited to meet and greet Dr. Kirkpatrick.

February 2, 2026 School Board Voting Meeting

Time: 7:00 PM
Location: Spring Grove Area Middle School, 244 Old Hanover Road, Spring Grove, PA
Meeting Room: LGI Room #242 (enter at Door #15 at the back of the building)

Meeting Agenda and Live Stream Link

January 21, 2026: Confidential Phase Update

January 2, 2026: Confidential Phase Update

November 24, 2025: Weekly Report

Application Update

Application inquiries received: 11
- (1) inquiry from out of state withdrew/not certified
Applications sent: 9
- (1) pending to be sent
Completed applications on hand: 5

Survey Responses

Community Survey closed on November 20, 2025.
349 total responses submitted.
In the process of compiling the data.
Results of the community survey will be shared with the School Board at the December 2, 2025, School Board Reorganization/Voting Meeting.

November 17, 2025: Weekly Report

November 10, 2025: Weekly Report

October 23, 2025: Notice of School Board Directors' Study Forum Special Meeting: Superintendent Search

October 23, 2025: Announcement of Community Input Opportunities

October 13, 2025: Board of School Directors Voting Meeting Update

At the October 13, 2025, Board of School Directors Voting Meeting, the Spring Grove Area School District Board voted to approve Option 1: to enter into an agreement with the Pennsylvania Association of Rural and Small Schools (PARSS) to serve as the consultant for the District’s Superintendent Search.

The search will follow a hybrid approach, combining the expertise of PARSS with the involvement of SGASD staff. Under the approved agreement, the cost will not exceed $9,800 for the search and $1,500 for incidental expenses.

Following the approval, representatives from the Superintendent and Human Resources offices, along with the School Board President and the Personnel Committee Chair, met with Dr. Edward Albert of PARSS to discuss the preliminary timeline and superintendent job posting.

October 9, 2025: Directors’ Study Forum Special Meeting Update

During the Directors’ Study Forum Special Meeting on October 6, 2025, the Board received presentations from two consulting firms:

Pennsylvania Association of Rural and Small Schools (PARSS), represented by Dr. Edward Albert of Albert Educational Consulting
Connie R. Kindler Educational Consulting, LLC, represented by Ms. Connie Kindler

Initially, Lincoln Intermediate Unit #12 (LIU12) was among the firms selected for consideration, but later respectfully withdrew. For more detailed information on each consultant, please refer to the Memorandum with Background Information that was provided on the board agenda.

Following the presentations, the Board decided to table any voting on the matter until the Directors’ Study Forum/Voting Meeting scheduled for Monday, October 13, 2025. During this meeting, the Board will consider a personnel action item with the following options for the Superintendent Search:

Option A: Contract PARSS for a hybrid search at a cost not to exceed $9,800, plus incidental costs up to $1,500.
Option B: Contract Connie R. Kindler Educational Consulting for a hybrid search at a cost not to exceed $16,000.
Option C: Conduct the search internally with district staff.

Both Dr. Albert and Ms. Kindler have expressed their commitment to exclusively conduct the search for Spring Grove Area School District. Additionally, if the appointed superintendent leaves within the first year, they will each conduct a subsequent search at no extra cost.

Next School Board Meeting: October 13, 2025 | 7:00 PM

Location: Spring Grove Area Middle School, 244 Old Hanover Road, Spring Grove, PA
Meeting Room: LGI Room #242. Attendees may enter at Door No. 15 at the rear of the building.

School Board Meeting Agendas and Live Stream

October 6, 2025: Directors’ Study Forum Special Meeting - Consultant Presentations

The Board has invited each consultant to present to the School Board during the Directors’ Study Forum Special Meeting on Monday, October 6, 2025, at 7:00 PM at Spring Grove Area Middle School. This meeting will be open to the public and live-streamed for those unable to attend in person.

Date, Time, & Location:
Monday, October 6, 2025 | 7:00 PM

Spring Grove Area Middle School, 244 Old Hanover Road, Spring Grove, PA
Meeting Room: LGI Room #242. Attendees may enter at Door No. 15 at the rear of the building.

School Board Meeting Agendas and Live Stream

September 22, 2025: Directors’ Study Forum Special Meeting Update

At the September 22, 2025, Directors’ Study Forum Special Meeting, the Board of School Directors selected Option C: A collaborative, hybrid approach between SGASD staff and a consultant to guide the Superintendent Search process.

As part of this decision, the Board narrowed the list of potential consultants to three:

Connie R. Kindler Educational Consulting, LLC (corrected from a previous reference to DiRocco Education Consulting LLC)
Lincoln Intermediate Unit (LIU #12)
Pennsylvania Association of Rural and Small Schools (PARSS)

Next Step:

Location:
Spring Grove Area Middle School, 244 Old Hanover Road, Spring Grove, PA
Meeting Room: LGI Room #242. Attendees may enter at Door No. 15 at the rear of the building.

School Board Meeting Agendas and Live Stream

September 19, 2025: Superintendent Search First Steps

Spring Grove Area School District is beginning the process of searching for our next Superintendent of Schools, and we are committed to keeping our community informed as we begin this important work.

The first step will take place during a Directors' Study Forum Special Meeting on Monday, September 22, 2025, at 7:00 PM at Spring Grove Area Middle School, followed by the Regular Voting Meeting. The meeting will also be live-streamed and recorded for those unable to attend.

At this meeting, the School Board will review three possible approaches for conducting the search:

Option A: Led internally by SGASD staff.
Option B: Facilitated by an independent consultant.
Option C: A collaborative, hybrid approach between SGASD staff and a consultant.

Supporting documents, including a sample job posting, updated position description, and consultant information, are included on the meeting agenda.

We will share updates throughout this process on our Superintendent Search webpage so families, staff, and community members can stay informed.

Meeting Information

Location:
Spring Grove Area Middle School
244 Old Hanover Road, Spring Grove, PA
Meeting Room: LGI Room #242. Attendees may enter at Door No. 15 at the rear of the building.

School Board Meeting Agendas and Live Stream

Original Posting

Vacancy Announcement - Application Deadline Closed
About Rocket Nation

Vacancy Announcement - Application Deadline Closed

Superintendent of Schools Vacancy Announcement

October 23, 2025

The Board of School Directors is seeking a visionary superintendent to lead the district to realize its vision of learning without limits.

The next superintendent must possess a strong commitment to community relationships, rigorous academics, clear communication, and fiscal responsibility. The superintendent must have demonstrated the ability to be strategic, collaborative, caring, consistent, and decisive. Candidates must have the ability to lead with integrity, innovate to find solutions, make difficult decisions, and build teams that inspire students, staff, and community.

SGASD is in south-central Pennsylvania in York County. The District encompasses about 92 square miles and includes Heidelberg, Jackson, Codorus, North Codorus, and Paradise townships, as well as the boroughs of Jefferson, New Salem, Seven Valleys, and Spring Grove.

Total enrollment for the District is approximately 4,700 students, with approximately 500 staff. SGASD operates three elementary schools (K-4), an intermediate school (5-6), a middle school (7-8), and a high school (9-12). The District offers several varsity, JV, and junior high sports programs. In addition, we sponsor a myriad of clubs and activities for students in grades 5-12.

Please apply if you possess the following qualities and experience:

A minimum of five years of satisfactory public school classroom teaching experience at the elementary and/or secondary school level.
A minimum of five years of demonstrated success in public school district administration and instructional leadership.
Passion and commitment to providing a dynamic 21st-century, safe, and engaging learning environment where all students can attain their full potential and experience high student achievement.
Engaging, inspirational leadership that guides every member of the administrative, instructional, and support services teams to achieve the district’s vision of “Learning Without Limits.”
A positive and engaging communication style that promotes close cooperation between parents, teachers, district staff, and the community in a collaborative, child-centered environment.
Ability and experience in the administration and use of all district facilities, property, and funds to ensure application of those resources in an appropriate manner.
Keen knowledge of, and experience with, school finance, business management, school law, and human resource management.
Ability to delegate responsibility and skilled in selecting, motivating, and evaluating highly qualified staff.
Consistent focus on team building and team effectiveness.
Knowledgeable on educational trends, research, and innovative practices
Ability to analyze and interpret data to make informed decisions and recommendations.
Extensive accomplished administration experience, preferably both as a school building and central office administrator.

Applications Now Being Accepted

Applications are now being accepted by the PA Association of Rural and Small Schools (PARSS). Candidates must meet the legal requirements to be certified as a superintendent in Pennsylvania.

Anyone interested in applying should contact Dr. Edward Albert, Executive Director of PARSS, at ealbert27@gmail.com or 717-587-3521.

The deadline for applying is November 30, 2025.

About Rocket Nation

Our Mission, Vision, & Values

Mission: To challenge and motivate all students to attain their full potential.

Vision: All students experience Learning Without Limits every day!

Values: We believe that students should experience Learning Without Limits in a safe, respectful, and inclusive environment where they can connect with others, engage in rigorous learning, own the learning, and solve complex problems.

The Spring Grove Area School District (SGASD) is a community of approximately 500 caring and dedicated employees who work in partnership with families, community members, local organizations, and volunteers to support the academic and social-emotional growth of all students in our district. Of the approximately 4,700 students served district-wide, 3,800 are students attending Spring Grove schools. We are committed to providing a positive educational experience while challenging and motivating every student to reach their full potential in school and beyond.

SGASD operates three elementary schools (K-4), an intermediate school (5-6), a middle school (7-8), and a high school (9-12). With a commitment to academic excellence, the District provides a comprehensive, well-rounded education that prepares students for success in an ever-changing world. The District's innovative curriculum and highly qualified and passionate educators foster a love for learning and encourage critical thinking skills.

At SGASD, learning extends beyond the classroom. Students can explore their passions through a variety of clubs for grades 5–12 and sports programs for grades 7–12, building skills that last a lifetime. With a strong sense of community and a focus on individual growth, our district provides an inclusive, supportive environment where every student can thrive.

Learn More About SGASD

Our Location

PA Map York County Highlighted with Spring Grove Point

Nestled in south-central Pennsylvania, the Spring Grove Area School District offers the perfect blend of small-town charm and easy access to major metropolitan areas. Located just 30 minutes from Harrisburg, one hour from Baltimore, and two hours from Philadelphia, our community combines the comfort of rural living with the convenience of nearby cities.

The Greater York–Harrisburg–Lancaster region is thriving with opportunity, from growing industries and vibrant arts and cultural scenes to outstanding healthcare, higher education, and recreational amenities. With nearby colleges and universities, family-friendly neighborhoods, and a strong sense of community pride, Spring Grove is truly a wonderful place to live, work, and call home.

Map of York County showing school district borders with SGASD highlighted in blue.

Meet Our Superintendent Search Consultant, Dr. Edward Albert from PARRS

I have the honor of leading the important process of the district's superintendent search.

My name is Dr. Edward Albert, a former educator and school superintendent, and I am currently the Executive Director of the Pennsylvania Association of Rural and Small Schools (PARSS). I look forward to getting to know as many of you as possible through this search. Your input will play a vital role in helping the school board identify the right leader for the district.

To ensure that staff and community voices are heard, I have planned key engagement opportunities. Your feedback matters. I encourage everyone—parents, students, staff, and residents—to take a few minutes to participate in one or more of these opportunities. Together, we can help shape the future of the Spring Grove Area School District.

Thank you for your involvement and commitment to your schools. I look forward to working with you as we move forward in this important endeavor.