New Principal at LAEC!

Dear LAEC Tribe Families,

It is with great excitement and heartfelt gratitude that I introduce myself as the new Principal of Academic Intervention and Enrichment for Lehighton Area School District, serving students in Pre-K through 5th grade. I officially joined the district on July 1, and I am honored to be part of a community so deeply committed to student success and growth.

📚 My Journey in Education

As I begin my 24th year in education, I am proud to reflect on a career that has brought me full circle—back home to Lehighton. I began teaching in Buffalo, NY, then moved to Stafford, Virginia, next later settled in Doylestown, PA, and now I am incredibly grateful to return to the place that shaped my own educational beginnings.

Over the past 23 years, I’ve had the joy of serving in many areas:

• 18 years in the classroom, primarily in Kindergarten, 1st, 2nd, and 4th grade, including multiple years of looping with students and families.

• 6 years as an Instructional Math Coach, supporting teachers and students across grades K–5, in 15 elementary schools.

Each step of the way, I’ve worked to build meaningful connections, support whole-child development, and strengthen instruction to ensure every student receives what they need to thrive.

💡 My Philosophy

I believe that education is more than a profession—it is a calling. I am passionate about creating learning environments where every child feels seen, valued, and empowered. Strong relationships, collaboration, and high-quality instruction are at the heart of everything I do. I believe that when we work together, we can achieve remarkable things for our children.

🏡 A Bit About Me

I was born in Hazleton, PA, and raised in Mahanoy City. My family and I currently live in Doylestown, and we’re thrilled to be reconnecting with the Lehighton community. I’m married to my incredible husband Tim, and together we have two amazing children: Emery (17) and Greyson (13).

Our family is full of life and love—we are proud fans of the Buffalo Bills and Sabres, we love going to concerts and Broadway shows, and lastly we enjoy being outdoors hiking, camping, and exploring nature. At home, we’re also kept busy with our many pets (a dog, two cats, a bunny, and a bearded dragon!). Emery is active in theater and choir, and Greyson keeps us on our toes with his ice hockey schedule. I can hardly believe my Emery is entering her senior year of high school—time truly flies. Watching her grow and succeed throughout her educational journey has been one of the greatest joys of my life. It’s that same sense of pride and purpose that I bring to Lehighton, where I am committed to celebrating, supporting, and walking alongside every student on their unique path to success.

🤝 Looking Ahead

At the heart of everything I do is a deep commitment to the what, how, and why behind our work—ensuring that every decision we make is grounded in what’s best for children. I believe that when we keep students at the center and work together with open hearts and shared purpose, we create schools where every child can thrive.

I am truly excited to get to know each child and family, to build strong relationships based on trust, communication, connection, and collaboration. I want to partner with you in support of your child’s growth and success. Thank you for welcoming me into the Lehighton community. I deeply value the connection between home and school, and I believe it is one of the most powerful drivers of a child’s growth—academically, socially, and emotionally. That partnership is what I look forward to most.

With gratitude,
Mrs. Tricia M. Foster
Principal of Academic Intervention and Enrichment
Lehighton Area School District