Delco Council Honors Tina Kane, 2025 PA Superintendent Of The Year

MARPLE-NEWTOWN, PA — In October 2024, Marple Newtown School District's superintendent was named the 2025 Pennsylvania Superintendent of the Year.

District Superintendent Dr. Tina Kane was given the honor by the Pennsylvania Association of School Administrators.

The Delaware County Council honored Kane at their regular meeting Wednesday.

Kane, according to Councilwoman Dr. Monica Taylor, has been "a beacon of innovative leadership and commitment."

"Under her guidance, the district has seen significant advancements in STEM education and social-emotional learning, ensuring our students are prepared for the challenges of the 21st century" she said. "Her focus on creating supportive environments through specialized counseling services demonstrates her wholistic approach to student success."

She said Kane being named the 2o25 Pennsylvania Superintendent of the Year "celebrates her nearly three decades of devoted service and visionary leadership in the community where she has both raised and educated."

Kane said she was deeply grateful and proud to earn the distinction.

"But this recognition is shared with my entire Marple Newtown School District," she said. "Together, we've earned our tiger stripes through dedication, perseverance, and shared commitment to our students' success."

She said the award is especially meaningful to her because she was born and raised in Delaware County and is a graduate of Marple Newtown High School.

"Delaware County has a strong tradition of educational excellence," she said. "And I'm honored to be part of the district and county that values learning, innovation, and opportunity for all students."

Kane was selected for this honor by the PASA Board of Governors and the PASA Elections Committee, chosen from a highly competitive pool of nominations received from across the Commonwealth, the association said.

Kane has led the Marple Newtown School District since 2019, after serving in various leadership roles, including principal at both the middle and high school levels.

During her tenure, the district has implemented key innovations, such as district-wide K-12 STEM education and the introduction of Social Emotional Learning (SEL) programming. These hallmark achievements integrate STEM and SEL through Design Thinking classes at the elementary and middle school levels, while the high school’s in-house STEM Academy, now in its fourth year, focuses on developing 21st-century skills and fostering student well-being.

Another significant achievement under Kane’s leadership is the restructuring of the high school counseling department into two specialized teams: one dedicated to student services focusing on social-emotional support, and the other on college and career academic counseling.

The association said the new structure greatly enhanced support for students, addressing both their mental health and academic needs, and has drawn attention from neighboring districts. The model has been presented at professional conferences, showcasing its success and potential for broader implementation.

"Dr. Tina Kane's long-standing dedication to the Marple Newtown School District is a remarkable testament to her unwavering commitment to student success and educational excellence," PASA Board of Governors President Dr. Gennaro Piraino Jr. said. "Over nearly three decades, she has been a transformative leader, inspiring students and staff with her innovative approach to STEM education, social-emotional learning, and effective communication. Tina's deep community roots and dedication to mentoring future leaders across the Commonwealth reflect her passion for making a lasting impact on public education. She has uplifted and empowered countless administrators as a champion of leaders, especially female leadership. Her vision and leadership are truly deserving of this recognition as the 2025 Pennsylvania Superintendent of the Year."

In addition to her work in the district, Kane is a dedicated advocate for women in educational leadership, serving as the President of the PASA Women’s Caucus and Co-Founder of a local Women in Leadership group. Through these roles, she has empowered female administrators across the state, fostering mentorship and professional development opportunities for emerging leaders.

"Among a strong nomination field of candidates for the 2025 PA Superintendent of the Year, Dr. Kane stood out as a shining example of leadership in the Commonwealth," PASA Executive Director Dr. Sherri Smith said. "She leads with conviction, compassion, and a vibrant vision for success at Marple Newtown. Through her role as Superintendent, President of the PASA Women’s Caucus, and as a member of the PASA Board of Governors, Dr. Kane continues to inspire those around her to reach new heights as we re-envision public education in the Commonwealth."