New Schnecksville Principal to Start in October

The new Schnecksville Elementary School principal will start Oct. 7, according to a Parkland School District spokeswoman.

Karen D. Dopera was appointed the position Tuesday night by the Parkland School Board. She will earn $97,000.

Dopera replaces William Bowen, whose last day will be Oct. 4, spokeswoman Nicole McGalla said. Bowen is is leaving to be closer to his family in Bucks County. He has accepted a position as principal at Gwynedd Square Elementary School in Montgomery County.

Dopera is the principal of Jefferson Elementary School in the Allentown School District, where she previously was principal of Lehigh Parkway School, assistant principal of Ritter Elementary School and an elementary school teacher for five years.

Assistant Superintendent Rodney Troutman said Dopera was selected out 35 applicants for the job. He cited her "child-centered philosophy" and "understanding of the skills necessary for elementary school." He said she had a strong curricular background and noted her strong emphasis on involving the staff and community in educational decisions.

Dopera holds a bachelor's degree in elementary education and a master's degree in curriculum and instruction from Kutztown University. She has a supervisor of curriculum and instruction and principal's certificate from Lehigh University.