Derry Area School District board appoints Alicia Longwell to fill seat through Dec. 4, 2025

The Derry Area School District board unanimously appointed Alicia Longwell to fill a board vacancy at a special meeting on June 3, 2025, naming her to a term that runs through Dec. 4, 2025.

Longwell, who introduced herself at the meeting as "Alicia Longwell," said she is a parent in the district and an associate professor at CCAC who teaches in the surgical-technology program. She told the board she is available on first and third Thursdays from about 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. and said special education is a particular interest because "my son has some special education needs," which she described as a motivating factor for seeking the position.

The board opened nominations for the vacancy, which was announced as a term ending Dec. 4, 2025. Ms. Fendish nominated Longwell. After a motion to close nominations, the board voted to appoint Longwell. Board members voting in favor were Mr. Fry, Ms. Fendish, Mr. Campbell, Mr. Krenoch, Mr. Lynch, Mr. Reid, Mr. Shaw and Ms. Showalter; the tally recorded was 8 yes, 0 no.

After the vote, an official identified in the meeting as Mr. Cribbs administered the oath of office. The board chair said Longwell will receive a nameplate and that the district will publish her contact information on the district website as required by the Pennsylvania School Code.

During her remarks, Longwell described community volunteer activities in the Brennheiser area, including organizing an Easter egg hunt and helping with a Halloween parade, and said she has lived in the Derry area for about 14 years. Board members discussed committee assignments and noted openings on athletics and finance committees; Longwell said she is open to learning and serving on committees.

The appointment takes effect June 3, 2025. The board did not discuss a replacement process beyond the nomination and vote at the meeting.