Dr. Betty Santoro Named to Superintendent's Honor Roll
Dr. Dietrich recently presented the third of this year’s Superintendent’s Honor Roll Awards to someone who is a fearless leader. Because of our award winner’s commitment, North Penn is a better place.
This individual has been described as an advocate for children, committed, and hard-working. Congratulations to Dr. Betty Santoro as the next recipient of the Superintendent’s Honor Roll Award!
During Betty’s 17 years at North Penn, she has served in various roles. Betty has met the challenges that each new venture has presented with dedication, poise, and integrity. As the principal of Gwyn Nor Elementary School, Betty was committed to improving access and equity for students in her building and developed a strong cultural proficiency team which continues today. After 10 years at Gwyn Nor, Betty was called upon to serve as the Director of Special Education and Student Services. While this role was initially outside of her comfort zone, Betty stepped up to fill this position when the district needed her and she did a truly outstanding job!
In 2014, Betty moved into the role of Director of Elementary Education, a true passion for her. After numerous years of discussing the merits of full-day Kindergarten, and numerous presentations and school board meetings, the board decided to implement full-day Kindergarten and place their trust in Betty to make it happen. Through her leadership, a detailed and collaborative plan was developed and executed. Betty’s tenacious pursuit of this endeavor has resulted in increased opportunities for nearly 1,000 kindergarteners in North Penn this school year, not to mention the many thousands who will follow in years to come.
In addition to planning and implementing full-day Kindergarten, Betty is a strong presence in our elementary school buildings. Betty is such a strong presence that she has served as interim principal on many occasions! Whether it has been a transition period between an outgoing or incoming principal, a maternity leave, or just the occasional fill-in, Betty is not afraid to jump in and lead a school building when needed.
Betty is first and foremost student-focused. She lights up when she talks about kids and is passionate about doing what is fair and right.
Betty is a devoted and loving daughter to her own mother, always ensuring her needs are well cared-for. Betty is a woman of faith who is active in her church. Beyond her obligations at North Penn, she is a leader in her faith community as well. All of this clearly comes through as she leads from a strong moral compass.
Betty's colleagues on cabinet, fellow administrators and staff and are so pleased to honor her for being a courageous and committed leader at North Penn. Please join them in saying thank you for all that Dr. Santoro does. Congratulations, Dr. Betty Santoro, on this well-deserved award!