The Pottsville Area School District is entering a new chapter in its leadership as Superintendent Dr. Sarah Yoder prepares to step down later this month.
The school board officially accepted her resignation at its May 21 meeting, following her decision to accept a new role as Director of Innovative Educational Services at the Chester County Intermediate Unit (CCIU).
Dr. Yoder’s last day with the district will be July 27, marking the end of a four-year tenure that district officials describe as transformative. During her leadership, she oversaw a significant financial recovery, reversing a near-negative fund balance and helping the district reach one of its strongest fiscal positions in recent memory. Beyond financial stewardship, Yoder has been praised for her commitment to students, community involvement, and principled leadership.
“Dr. Yoder led with vision, heart, and integrity,” said Pottsville Area School Board President Linda Wytovich. “She guided our district to financial strength, invested in our students and staff, and strengthened our sense of community. Her legacy is lasting, and we are profoundly grateful for all she has done.”
Reflecting on her time in Pottsville, Dr. Yoder called the experience the highlight of her professional career.
“It has been the privilege of my professional career to serve as superintendent of the Pottsville Area School District—a place my husband, children and I proudly call home,” she said. “This is a remarkable community with incredible people, outstanding programming, and a powerful spirit. I will miss it dearly. Thank you to the Board for your support and leadership, and thank you to the community for your continued partnership.”
To ensure a smooth transition, the district has appointed Dr. Alan Lonoconus as Acting Superintendent, effective July 28. Dr. Lonoconus brings decades of experience in public education, including a 15-year tenure as superintendent of the Great Valley School District.
“We are grateful to Dr. Lonoconus for helping our district continue the great work already underway,” Wytovich said. “His leadership will help ensure a smooth and stable transition.”
The search for a permanent superintendent is already underway. The district has partnered with Templeton Advantage, LLC—led by Tom Templeton—to guide the selection process. The board has emphasized transparency and community engagement as key components of the search, which includes stakeholder surveys and focus groups.
“This role is one of the most important in our district, and we’re committed to getting it right for our students,” added Wytovich. “We are conducting a thorough and inclusive search that reflects the values of our community and keeps students at the center of every decision.”
Candidate interviews are currently in progress, with the board aiming to announce the next superintendent by late summer.