Bethlehem School District Appoints Ralph Andrews as New Principal

The Bethlehem Area School District has appointed Ralph Andrews as the new principal of Hanover Elementary School, pending board approval. Currently serving as the elementary principal at the Parkside Education Center and S.S. Palmer Elementary in the Palmerton Area School District, Andrews has been selected to lead Hanover Elementary as it transitions into the new academic year.

Andrews has held his position in the Palmerton Area School District since 2021. Prior to this role, he served as the assistant principal at Robert Clemente Charter School in Allentown. His educational journey began in the Palmerton Area School District, where he taught sixth and eighth-grade mathematics.

Background and Qualifications

Ralph Andrews holds a master’s degree in educational leadership from Cabrini University, a Master of Science in classroom technology from Wilkes University, and a bachelor’s degree from Pennsylvania State University. His extensive background in education and leadership positions him well to take on the challenges of his new role.

“We are excited to welcome Mr. Andrews to Hanover Elementary,” said Jack Silva, Superintendent of the Bethlehem Area School District. “His leadership experience, instructional expertise, and dedication to positive school culture make him an excellent fit for our BASD school community.”

If approved, Andrews is expected to officially assume his responsibilities later in the fall.

Transition from Previous Leadership

The appointment comes after the previous principal, Erin Hines, was placed on leave in April following a DUI charge related to an incident where she allegedly crashed into several cars in a Bethlehem shopping center. Hines is scheduled for a preliminary hearing next week concerning the charges against her.

The selection of Andrews as the new principal marks a significant step for Hanover Elementary as it seeks to foster a stable and effective leadership environment for students and staff alike. The district anticipates that his experience will contribute positively to the school community.