Administration Team

Sarah Rothermel, Principal

Hello Steckel families! My name is Mrs. Rothermel, and I am honored to serve as the principal of Steckel Elementary School. I bring almost 20 years of experience in school and district level leadership, and I’m passionate about creating a learning environment where every child feels safe, supported, and inspired to achieve their best.

I grew up right here in the Lehigh Valley, and I’m incredibly excited to return home to this fantastic community. It’s a privilege to serve in the place that shaped me, and I look forward to giving back to a region that means so much to my family and me.

Before joining the Steckel team, I was a Curriculum Supervisor, leading initiatives in Multi-Tiered Systems of Support (MTSS), assessment literacy, and standards-aligned curriculum development. I hold advanced degrees in School Leadership and Curriculum & Instruction and am currently completing my doctorate degree focused on inclusive leadership and instructional equity from Wilkes University.

Outside of school, I enjoy spending time with my family, cooking, practicing yoga, attending concerts, and supporting the arts, particularly local community theater. I also love a good book, a nice iced coffee, and cheering on my favorite team, the Penn State Nittany Lions!

I believe that every child can succeed when given the proper support, encouragement, and opportunities. I value open communication and believe strong partnerships with families are essential to student success. Please don’t hesitate to reach out. I welcome your questions, ideas, and feedback, and I look forward to working together to make this a fantastic year at Steckel!

Zach Garger, Assistant Principal

I am excited to return to Steckel Elementary for another year as Assistant Principal. Throughout my career, I have served as a fifth grade teacher, instructional coach, content specialist, and administrator at both the elementary and middle school levels. I earned my undergraduate degree in Elementary Education from Penn State University and master’s degrees in Classroom Technology from Wilkes University and Educational Leadership from Lehigh University. I am grateful for the relationships I have built at Steckel and look forward to continuing our work together.

One of my favorite parts of serving as Assistant Principal is working with students throughout the school day, including during arrival, classroom visits, lunch, and dismissal. I especially enjoy supporting the teaching and learning taking place in our classrooms and strengthening our schoolwide positive behavior expectations. I believe in setting high expectations while providing the academic, social, and emotional support students need to grow. School should be filled with meaningful learning, positive relationships, enthusiasm, and joy.

Outside of school, I enjoy spending time with my wife and children, attending concerts, working on my lawn and landscaping, visiting the Poconos, boating on Lake Wallenpaupack, and cheering on the Minnesota Vikings and Penn State Nittany Lions.

I am proud to be part of the Steckel community and look forward to another year of learning, growth, and celebrating our students.