On Dec. 16, 2024, Manheim Township School District’s Superintendent, Dr. Robin Felty, will retire. She has accepted the position of Chief Operating Officer at Barley Snyder Law firm for the opportunity to use her leadership and communication skills in new ways.
Felty has earned numerous degrees in the educational field, including her doctoral degree in Educational Leadership and Administration from Immaculata University. Preceding her Superintendent position at MTSD, Dr. Felty served as an Assistant Superintendent for Warwick School District and Ephrata Area High School, as well as a secondary and elementary level, including positions in Special Education.
Dr. Felty has worked in MTSD for over a decade, including almost nine years as the Superintendent. In her career, Dr. Felty has had many achievements. She is involved in the creation of the North Star Manheim Township Initiative. These are groups that meet within the community and share the goal of creating a welcoming, supportive environment throughout the school district. She is also proud of her promotion of student leadership and voice, which ensures that the student and staff feel “valued and heard.” Dr. Felty also enjoyed being part of the team that designed Manheim Township’s new middle school with spaces focused on the students’ ability to collaborate and engage in their academics.
“I’m proud that the building was completed on time and under budget,” Dr. Felty said.
As superintendent, Dr. Felty has faced many challenges and made difficult, important decisions requiring her to continuously devote her time and attention to the school district.
“The biggest challenge I experienced during my superintendency at MTSD was trying to educate K-12 students in the safest way possible for students and staff during the COVID-19 pandemic,” she said.
Despite these challenges, Dr. Felty will greatly miss creating strong relationships and working with the staff and families of MTSD. Additionally, she is very grateful that she was part of the educational journey of Manheim Township’s dedicated students.
“I have always believed that students are the heart of any school district, and I have greatly enjoyed getting to know so many of them over the years,” she said.
During her final months as superintendent, Dr. Felty hopes to continue working on various important projects like the growth of our athletic facilities and STEM programs. After her retirement, Dr. Felty is excited to engage in several hobbies.
“I will be spending more time with my family, as well as gardening and reading. I also hope to spend time traveling,” she said.
Dr. Felty’s advice to MTSD’s next superintendent is to “encourage the great staff at MTSD to continue doing their important work in the lives of students.” To the entire MTSD community, Dr. Felty emphasizes the importance of over-communication.
“Our community wants to know what is happening – – they support and value our school district,” she said.
