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Shippensburg Area School District appoints Blake A. Fritz as high school principal in 7-1 vote
Summary
The Shippensburg Area School District board approved the promotion of Blake A. Fritz to principal of Shippensburg Area High School, effective July 1, 2025, at an annual salary of $105,000. The motion passed 7-1 after a board member voiced concerns about experience and succession support.
The Shippensburg Area School District board voted to approve the promotion of Blake A. Fritz to principal of Shippensburg Area High School, effective July 1, 2025, with an annual salary of $105,000.
Administrators presented the personnel recommendation at a special board meeting and the board moved to approve the appointment. The motion was made by Kirk Nagle and seconded by Darren Donovan. A roll-call vote produced seven votes in favor and one vote against; the board declared the motion passed.
The appointment replaces outgoing principal Deb J. Luffey. The administration's personnel recommendation stated the promotion and the effective date and salary; the board approved that recommendation as presented.
Board member Fred Scott explained his lone no vote. “Reason why I voted no. 1, she has 3 and a half year 3 years of experience as a principal. Well, that's not the the main problem for me,” Scott said. He also raised concerns about the experience of the second-in-command, saying, “Second 1 in command, Helen has 2 years as a principal, except trying to be a principal,” and that the superintendent had indicated that the second-in-command “is looking for another job.”
A district staff member responded to those concerns, saying Fritz “will be absolutely supported in this position by myself, Ms. DeLong, and the entire administrative team, as well as, I think, many of the experienced teachers at the high school,” and that the district planned to “rally around her and have her lead the high school.”
After the vote, board members offered congratulations. Board members and the district thanked Deb J. Luffey for her years of service; a district statement at the meeting expressed appreciation for her impact on students, staff and the community.
Blake A. Fritz addressed the board and community after the vote. “I'm truly honored to be the next principal at Shippensburg Area Senior High School,” Fritz said, and added that she was “committed and excited to continue supporting our students, staff, and families” and to “build a safe and inclusive, engaged environment for all.”
The board concluded the special meeting after the personnel action and brief board comments.
