By Courtney Zapp | Staff writer
With 22 years of experience in four different district schools, Maria Kotz is very excited to continue her teaching career at Indian Trail High School & Academy, with this being her first time as a principal.
She did her student teaching in England in history and secondary education and has worked at both high and middle schools, but Indian Trail is completely new ground for her.
When asked to become Indian Trail’s principal without warning, Kotz accepted the offer without question, happy for the new experience and setting. She jumped in head first, and regularly tours the lunchroom, conversing with students and staff alike. The staff is just as excited as her to work together.
“She has embraced Hawk Pride from day one,” said Amy Reidlinger, ITHS’ Assistant Principal. “I can truly say it has been a pleasure to work with her since she jumped on board in June.”
Kotz, who earned the Secondary Teacher of the Year award in 2000 and has a master’s degree in curriculum and instruction along with her administrative license, loves working in high schools.
“It amazes me to watch their growth over the course of their high school careers,” Kotz said.
From 1992 to 2006, she taught at Bradford High School, working mainly in programs for students who needed additional support to graduate.
From 2008 to 2013, she worked as assistant principal at Tremper, first in the Office of Student Management, then as the Freshman Academy leader, then in teaching and learning.
While she is looking forward to working with faculty at Indian Trail, she is concerned about tackling this year’s budgeting, and considers herself a “worry-wart” when it comes to spending. Kotz should have no trouble getting adjusted if the student body continues with what she considered a very positive, friendly, and welcoming atmosphere.
One thing she’d like to get out there for all to know is how truly excited she is to interact with and get to know the students.
“I like to laugh a lot (and) make life an adventure.”