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’m excited to be joining the Whitehall-Coplay School District as the new Assistant Principal at Steckel Elementary. This role is especially meaningful to me, as my father was a 5th grade teacher in Whitehall for many years. Coming back to this district feels like it is meant to be!
Before joining the team at Steckel, I served as a 5th grade teacher, instructional coach, content specialist, and assistant principal for grades 6–8. I earned my undergraduate degree in Elementary Education from Penn State University and hold master’s degrees in Classroom Technology from Wilkes University and Educational Leadership from Lehigh University.
I believe in setting high expectations for all students, supporting growth academically, socially, and emotionally, and bringing enthusiasm and joy to the school experience. School should be fun, and all students are capable of learning and growing.
Outside of school, I enjoy going to concerts, mowing the lawn and landscaping, spending time in the Poconos, boating on Lake Wallenpaupack, and cheering on the Minnesota Vikings and Penn State Nittany Lions. I’m grateful to share my life with my wonderful wife and our three young children.
I look forward to meeting you and working with your children this year at Steckel Elementary!