Laura Tobias Named New State High Principal

An assistant principal at State College Area High School for the past five years, Laura Tobias now will take on the high school’s top post.

The State College School Board on Monday approved the appointment of Tobias as State High principal. She succeeds Curtis Johnson, who was named the district’s assistant superintendent for secondary education in June.

“I am humbled and excited to be taking on this new role,” Tobias said in a statement. “I believe in the power of education to positively change lives. My dedication to instructional leadership, passion for student success, and experience cultivating successful educational teams fuels my desire to serve our district as the high school principal.”

According to the district, Tobias played a key role in helping lead students and staff as the high school went through multiple phases of construction for the new $140 million school building on the Westerly Parkway campus. She also devoted efforts to strengthening the ninth grade learning community and successful transitions to high school.

“I want to thank the State College Area School District and community, colleagues and my family who have supported me throughout my educational journey. I look forward to continuing my work with our students, families, teachers and staff in supporting our district mission of preparing our students for life long success through excellence in education,” she said.

Prior to her time at State High, Tobias was an assistant principal at Penns Valley Area Jr./Sr. High School for four years following 13 years as a social studies teacher there.

Tobias earned a bachelor of science degree in public policy and administration from the University of Buffalo and a master of education degree in advanced teacher education from St. Bonaventure University.

“Laura’s demonstrated administrative skills and passion for supporting student learning make her an excellent choice to lead State High forward,” Superintendent Bob O’Donnell said. “She has been an integral member of the high school leadership team through challenging years, and I think with her at the helm, State High will build on successes from recent years and reach new heights. I look forward to working with her in her new role.”

Tobias’s salary will be $132,000, according to human resources recommendations presented to the board.