Several administrative changes are set to take place in the Ephrata Area School District for the 2025-2026 school year, following a School Board vote on Monday, June 2.
Dr. Peter Kishpaugh will move from Middle School Principal to Coordinator of Instructional Programs. He joined in EASD in July 2014 as an Assistant Principal at Ephrata High School. Prior to coming to the District, Dr. Kishpaugh spent six years at Altoona Area High School teaching Physics and coaching football and track. He received his undergraduate degree from The Pennsylvania State University and his Master of Educational Leadership and Principal Certification from Saint Francis University. He received his Doctorate degree from Immaculata University.
Dr. Chris Montagna will transition from Principal of Clay Elementary to Middle School Principal. He began serving in this role in 2020 upon joining the District. Prior to EASD, Dr. Montagna served as an assistant principal in the Manheim Central School District. Additionally, he was a Technology Instructional Coach and classroom teacher in the Avon Grove School District. Dr. Montagna earned a Bachelor of Science Degree in Elementary Education from Shippensburg University and a Master of Educational Leadership Degree and Principal Certification from California University of Pennsylvania.
Mrs. Jennifer Barnabei will shift from Intermediate School Assistant Principal to Principal of Clay Elementary School. She previously served as the Fulton and Highland Elementary School Library Media Specialist. A lifelong Mountaineer, she is an Ephrata High School graduate and earned a Principal Certification and a Master of Education Degree from California University of Pennsylvania, as well as a Bachelor of Science Degree in Elementary Education from Catawba College. Previously, Mrs. Barnabei taught grades 4-8 in the Pequea Valley and Moon Area School Districts.
These changes, effective July 1, 2025, are being made in response to the vacancy in the Coordinator of Instructional Programs position following the resignation of Dr. Ronald Wales.
“We are pleased to have such highly qualified leaders willing to step-up and take on new roles. Being able to elevate proven leaders who know the District culture and priorities is a blessing. We are excited about starting the new school year with these leaders in their new posts!” commented District Superintendent Dr. Brian Troop.
