Fair and consistent are two adjectives that describe retired superintendent Georgia Teppert. As a Southmoreland Highschool alum, Teppert knew she wanted to be involved with students from a young age. 

“I was an assistant gymnastic instructor and enjoyed teaching physical fitness, gymnastics, and dance. These positions really shaped my love for teaching,” said Teppert. 

Her high school teachers Mrs. Barr and Mr. Manns, along with principal Mr. Beck were Georgia’s biggest inspirations. “They were always kind and encouraging to me throughout high school. They inspired me to go into teaching myself.” 

After careful consideration, Teppert decided to attend Slippery Rock University to obtain her bachelor of science degree in health and physical education K-12 with an emphasis on dance. “I loved Slippery Rock University because the professors were awesome. I enjoyed being on the dance theater tour group and traveling nationwide. The campus was truly beautiful, I just loved everything about it,” she said

Not only did she obtain her education from Slippery Rock University, but she started her pageant career during her time at the university. “In college, my roommate entered me without my knowledge into the Miss Slippery Rock University Pageant, which was a scholarship pageant. I thought I would try it because the scholarship money came in handy during my sophomore year in college when I needed it most. If you won you would go to Miss Pennsylvania, then Miss Pennsylvania to Miss America.” To nobody’s surprise Teppert won Miss Slippery Rock and from then on it was history.” Competing in Miss Pennsylvania America, Mrs. United States, and Mrs. Pennsylvania International gave Teppert the public speaking skills and grace that translated into her career. 

Following her bachelor’s degree, Georgia’s first teaching job was at Valley School of Ligonier as a physical education teacher as well as the lacrosse and field hockey coach. She then returned to her alma mater of Southmoreland High School to become the physical education and health teacher along with being the competitive cheer coach. 

Teppert decided to then return to school to complete her master’s degree and principal certificate at the California University of Pennsylvania. She wanted to continue her education so she could continue moving forward with job opportunities.

Following her master’s, Teppert accepted her first administrative role as the assistant high school principal within the Richland School District in Johnstown. She took on this role prior to Ligonier Valley and Laurel Valley merging together.

During her time at Ligonier Valley, Teppert was contacted by Dr. Sarokin, who was the assistant superintendent at Greater Latrobe. At the time, Latrobe was searching for an assistant principal for the high school, and Teppert was at the top of the recruitment list. “At the time I was comfortable where I was and did not see myself transferring schools. However, after three calls I decided to go in for the interview. Ever since then, I’ve been grateful to call Greater Latrobe my home.”

Through countless hours of hard work, Teppert earned her doctorate degree from the University of Pittsburgh. As time passed, she was promoted to Principal, then The Director of Support Services, followed by The Assistant to the Superintendent, Assistant Superintendent, and ultimately Superintendent. “Becoming Superintendent was truly rewarding. I got to see the improvement with all of the teachers in every building along with the students. It was great to see the wonderful opportunities that our students receive,” explained Teppert.

Gallery • 7 Photos

The Teppert Family posing before the Homecoming Parade

Although Teppert did her best to answer questions and give insight into her job, there is a lot that goes on behind the scenes. Not to mention she has an 18-year-old daughter, Arielle, and a husband of 29 years Ernie. “There are a lot of things people don’t see, one of them being the time she had to put in following her normal work hours. I had to be supportive and pick up the slack at home because she had incredibly long hours,” stated Ernie Teppert. 

Even though Teppert accumulated long hours and sleepless nights, she wouldn’t have done it any differently. “I love the students and each decision I made reflected what was best for the kids, not what was easiest or most popular,” she said.

After 34 years in education, Teppert decided to retire and start a new phase of her life. With many things to check off her bucket list, she already has a headstart. “I am very involved with my daughter, her senior year activities, and college hunting. I am blessed with this opportunity because I know I would not be able to do all of this if I was still working.”

Don’t let her fool you, she is still quite involved with the community and continues to stay busy despite her retirement. “I keep physically fit by going to Jazzercise. I work part-time at Wight Elephant Boutique where I ship clothing across the country, along with taking care of our lovely pup Pumpkin,” exclaimed Teppert.

Georgia is not the only one excited about retirement, her husband Ernie is more than ready to start the new phase of their life together. “I just recently retired from being a manufacturers representative for Online Marketing representing about a dozen manufacturer companies. I am more than excited to travel more, spend more time with my family, restore vehicles, and take time to enjoy our daughter at college events,” quoted Ernie Teppert.

Georgia Teppert has left an astounding legacy within the Greater Latrobe School District. Her heart has been worn on her sleeve with each student and staff member. She has passed on her wisdom and advice to everyone willing to listen. Teppert can rest assured knowing her footprints have been left within the district for years to come.