Meet North Strabane Intermediate School’ s New Principal
SHARON LEPRI
anon-Mac CANON-MAC SCHOOL DISTRICT NEWS
Sharon Lepri, the new principal at North Strabane Intermediate School, values open communication, strong relationships and genuine authenticity. Her commitment to keeping everyone informed and involved is a cornerstone of her leadership style.
“ I would describe my personal leadership style as very authentic,” she said.“ My job is to support and encourage— not just the students but our staff as well— and make sure everyone is taken care of and that they have the resources and tools they need to be the best they can be.”
Lepri, originally from Long Island, New York, has a rich 30- year history in education. She is a lifelong learner, pursuing her doctorate in educational leadership and administration at Point Park University. Lepri earned her bachelor’ s in elementary education and teaching as well as a master’ s in special education and teaching at Duquesne University. She also received her elementary and middle school administration / principalship certification and educational, instructional and curriculum supervision certification at the University of Pittsburgh.
Lepri started her career at Frazier School District, then worked at South Fayette Township School District for five years before teaching overseas at an international school in Slovakia for two years. After returning to Pennsylvania, she worked at Upper St. Clair and West Allegheny before entering the world of education
50 CANON-MAC administration as assistant principal at Albert Gallatin Middle School and later becoming principal. She later worked at George J. Plava Elementary School for a few years and said she was eager to apply when she heard about an opening at North Strabane Intermediate School.
“ Looking at the growth of this district and all of the exciting things happening here, applying was a no-brainer,” Lepri shared.“ To become principal here has been an amazing experience so far. It’ s exciting to be a part of such an innovative district.”
In her first year as principal, her top priorities have been getting to know the students, families and community and building on the work of the previous principal, Dr. Mark Abbondanza, who has moved into his new role as assistant to the superintendent of K-6 curriculum and instruction.
Lepri celebrates putting students, families and staff first by constantly communicating, whether through informal checkins to establish trust and camaraderie or formal conversations to build relationships. She believes it’ s essential that teachers and students feel comfortable coming to her for support.
“ My goal is to provide a community that supports academic excellence and strong student relationships that create a safe and supportive environment that parents want for their kids,” she said.“ I believe that a strong partnership between school and home is important.”
Lepri lives in McMurray with her two sons and husband. They love traveling, learning and attending Pittsburgh Steelers or Penguins games together.