New Principal Named for Easterly Parkway Elementary School

The State College Area School Board on Monday unanimously approved a new principal for Easterly Parkway Elementary.

Meredith Henderson, currently the assistant principal at Mount Nittany Middle School, will begin her new role at Easterly on July 1. She will succeed Susan Lunsford, who is retiring.

“I am thrilled to join the community at Easterly Parkway where I will uphold the commitment to academic excellence in the inclusive environment I have observed through the years,” Henderson said in a statement. “I look forward to connecting with the students, families, staff and faculty. The opportunity to collaborate to support student growth is beyond exciting. I am grateful for the opportunity to serve in this way.”

Henderson has been with the State College Area School District since 2007. Prior to joining the Mount Nittany Middle administration in 2021, she taught English at State College Area High School and Hollidaysburg Senior High School for 14 years. From 2007 to 2013, she also was a supervisor for SCASD’s Community Education program, managing more than 200 elementary students daily and supervising summer school, summer camp for English language learning students and the Shorts and Sports program.

After graduating from Penn State in 2007 with bachelor’s degrees in secondary English education and integrative arts degrees, Henderson later earned a master’s degree in 21st century teaching and learning from Wilkes University and a master’s degree in educational leadership/K-12 principal certification from Edinboro University.

Henderson, who also serves as vice president of the board of directors for Arc of Centre County and volunteers with the Special Olympics. was selected as Easterly Parkway’s new principal after a search that included input from teachers and staff, parents, board members and administrators.

“Mrs. Henderson’s ability and passion to build relationships with all stakeholders as well as her understanding of instructional practices were evident throughout the interview process and made her the top candidate for the position,” Assistant Superintendent for Elementary Education Danielle Yoder said in a statement.

“Additionally, she brings with her a solid foundation of equity and belonging and has a strong desire to build culture within the school and the entire community. Mrs. Henderson is enthusiastic and understanding in her approach and is student-focused. She will be a wonderful addition to the Easterly Parkway team and community.”

Henderson’s salary as principal will be $123,500, according to the human resources recommendations included with the agenda for Monday’s meeting.