Ms. Karen Hulse

What do scuba diving, working in a hospital, and expertise in curriculum development all have in common? These are just a few aspects of the schema, which make up the background of Leechburg’s new member. The Leechburg Area Middle High School began the year with a new principal, Ms. Karen Hulse. Karen brings a diverse educational background and a wealth of skills in curriculum development. These qualities, combined with her enthusiasm for bolstering student success, make her an excellent addition to the Leechburg family.

Before deciding to become a teacher Karen worked in a hospital as an Infection Control Practitioner for eight years. One part of the job included providing informational workshops and seminars for hospital employees. Karen soon discovered that she really enjoyed teaching, and decided to change careers.

First she went back to Indiana University of Pennsylvania where she had previously earned a biology degree and gained her teaching certificate. She then instructed for eight years at Lenape Technical School, until leaving the classroom to become a curriculum specialist. During that time, she also obtained a Master’s of Education and her principal’s certification from California University. Still adding to her education, Karen is currently working on her doctorate at the University of Pittsburgh.

Leechburg boasts a new accomplishment that brings excitement not only to the administration, but also to the students and faculty. Working together, a team of teachers, Mrs. King, Mrs. Delvecchio, Mr. Reed, and Mrs. Bono obtained a school ground habitat enhancement and restoration grant from the Audubon Society of Western Pennsylvania. Karen explains, “The grant is designed to enhance the environment of Riverfront Park to bring in birds and other wildlife. The students will be able to use the park as an outdoor laboratory. The team of teachers has worked really hard on this project and I am very proud of them.”

Believing that “The stronger the curriculum, the more successful students will be,” Karen is looking forward to working on the administrative team for curriculum development. Karen’s expertise lies in scrutinizing and revising the curriculum, so that it correlates with state standards. Her five years of experience as a specialist in this area have well equipped her for the task at Leechburg.

In her spare time, Karen stays quite busy. She has volunteered to serve on the HAVIN board for the last seven years, currently holding the office of treasurer. In addition, Karen has just gained her license for scuba diving and plans to go to Honduras this summer to dive. Karen’s son introduced her to this hobby, and now they enjoy scuba diving together.

Spending time with the students is Karen’s favorite part of the day. “I love getting to go into the classes and join in when the students are working in groups. I also really enjoy talking with them in the hall,” she says with a smile. “That’s what makes the job exciting.” She also appreciates how understanding and helpful the faculty has been since she arrived. “It has been wonderful!”

With a background as a practitioner and a curriculum specialist, Karen brings a broad perspective to her position as principal. She is committed to helping students succeed, and possesses the zeal to carry out this goal.

To watch the video go to http://www.alle-kiskitoday.com/webcasts/1344