by Elia McKnight, Electrical Occupation Senior (LHS)

Many great leaders have passed through our school’s doors, and the newest one in line is one who is sure to meet and exceed this distinction. LCCTC is under new leadership; let’s give a hearty welcome to our newest Principal, Mrs. Diana Caiazza! Though her time in this position began in late August, Principal Caiazza has already been a valuable asset to LCCTC for the past four years; during that time, she served as a Special Education teacher and was content to continue; however, when the opportunity appeared, she put her hat in the ring.

When asked in an interview why this position was one of interest to her, she replied, “I want to be a leader in a learning environment that pushes students to pursue a career in a field where they have a passion.”

She continued to state that the incredible variety of trades and skills that can be acquired here is divergent from many traditional educational settings.

She also mentioned, “Something I love about LCCTC is somewhat unique to our school – the atmosphere. Now serving as principal, I often hear that at LCCTC, there is a level of care our teachers show for their students. There is a family atmosphere created in both shop class and academics, and it’s wonderful.” Now serving in this new capacity, Principal Caiazza’s favorite part of the position is interacting with our students, staff, and families alike.

From childhood, Principal Caiazza knew that she was destined to be an educator. A graduate of Wilmington High School, she went on to earn her undergraduate degree in education at Slippery Rock University, and two Masters degrees - one from Edinboro University and one from Walden University.

Not only is our principal thoroughly qualified, but she has a blazing devotion to the school and community, always seeking more ways to improve. In the short time she has represented our school, Principal Caiazza has extended her previous work as a Special Education teacher and Class Advisor as she continues to hold open many doors for our students by building upon various programs, continuing to connect our student body with each other to be more united through clubs and school events, and promoting efficient learning styles.

Already, she has encouraged a study hall recently implemented for students in their shop class week so that teachers may have a planning period and kids can work on schoolwork or extracurricular projects. Additionally, she has worked supporting several wonderful new teachers and staff members recently added to our LCCTC family, assisting teachers as they write their curriculum, and helping our shops teachers to make sure they are in compliance with the expectations of the PA Department of Education – all tasks that are mountains within themselves.

She adds that future plans include more shop-integrated and vocationally-personalized academics to ensure that our students get the most out of their time here at LCCTC as possible. Principal Caiazza makes it a point to give our students an education that will build their vocational skills, even within academic classes.

Additionally, as an educator who has, in previous years, taken an active interest in our extra-curricular activities, Principal Caiazza coached one of our current seniors all the way through a gold-medal status in SkillsUSA district and state competition allowing him to compete and shine at the national level. Additionally, she helped implement one of our newest features for our graduates, SkillsUSA Signing Day; this event brings industry, post-secondary-educators, and our nation’s military together with families and our school to recognize and celebrate those seniors who have committed to continue working, to continue their studies in post-secondary education, to pursue further training in the union, or to bravely serve our country in the Armed Forces.

When she’s not patrolling the hallways or handling the latest issue that may arise (remember the broken water main outside of the school during her first week?) like a champ, in her free time, Principal Caiazza enjoys running and cheering on her boys through life and athletics, as she is their number one fan.

Principal Caiazza – We are YOUR number one fans! Thank you for making our school a better place!