Mannarino May Fill School District's Top Post

When North Hills School District Superintendent Joseph Goodnack retires in January 7, his replacement may be a familiar face.

North Hills Board of Directors announced Monday they are in discussions with district Assistant Superintendent Patrick Mannarino to fill North Hills’ top post. 

“We are (negotiating) very seriously to see if it works for both sides to name (Mannarino) superintendent to be,” said school Director Edward Wielgus, who is president of the board.

“We believe we have a more than capable replacement that will serve our district well,” he said, adding that it’s also an opportunity for a seamless transition and would save the district time and money because they wouldn’t have to conduct an outside search.  

Mannarino started in North Hills in 2002 and served as the district’s senior high school assistant principal until 2006 and senior high school principal until 2010 before advancing to assistant superintendent last school year. Prior to his arrival in North Hills, he was a social studies teacher, assistant athletic director and dean of students at Blackhawk School District in Beaver County.

Mannarino said he is thrilled about the potential opportunity to serve as superintendent after working with Goodnack for what will be 18 months.

“North Hills isn’t a new district to me,” Mannarino said. “I understand this district and the community.”

Goodnack, who also served as district assistant superintendent for 18 months prior to replacing Joseph Clapper, has lead North Hills for five years.

He said he believes Mannarino’s promotion to superintendent would be beneficial for North Hills. 

“I think he will be a great asset to the district,” Goodnack said.

School officials declined to discuss salary and other specifics such as contract length prior to board approval of an agreement.

No specific timeline exists for a contract agreement, Wielgus said.