Nicole Coppola, North Penn alumnus, named principal at Brattle Path Elementary

Dr. Nicole Coppola, a North Penn School District alumna and elementary educator, is the district's new principal at Brattle Path Elementary School, she told hosts on the district's Educating With Ease podcast recorded Aug. 3.

Coppola described a long history with North Penn schools — attending Nash Elementary, Penfield and North Penn High School — and said teachers in the district inspired her career. "I always wanted to be an elementary teacher," she said, crediting specific former teachers for encouraging her path into education. Coppola said she earned a degree from the University of Scranton and later completed a doctorate; she told hosts she is pursuing certification to be a yoga instructor in addition to her school leadership work.

Why it matters: Coppola returns to North Penn as principal at a time when the district is preparing buildings, staff and students for the new school year. Her local roots and prior connections to the district were central themes of her conversation with Superintendent Todd Bauer and co-host Robert Gilmer.

Coppola spoke about the influences that shaped her work, naming teachers she kept in touch with and describing how early involvement in student government and cheerleading helped form her interest in school leadership. She also shared personal context: she and her husband are celebrating nearly 19 years of marriage and have two children, including a daughter who recently turned 16 and a son entering high school.

Hosts said the district and community are eager to welcome Coppola back. Bauer introduced her on the podcast as "a North Penn alumna" and invited listeners to join the school community in welcoming the new principal. Coppola closed by noting the pleasure of returning: "Here I am. I'm back."