About North Hills
Principal's Welcome
Hello North Hills families!
I am excited to introduce myself to the North Hills community as the next principal of North Hills Elementary for the upcoming school year. My name is Patricia Van Valkenburg. While students often call me Dr. Van for short, please feel free to call me Trish.
Returning to North Hills truly feels like coming home. I previously taught at North Hills before moving into my current role as an assistant principal at Central York Middle School, and I could not be more honored or excited to once again serve the students, staff, families, and community that make this school so special.
I am originally from South Jersey and, after earning my undergraduate degree from Towson University, began my career in education in Baltimore County before moving to York and joining the Central York family. My fiancé and I are also excitedly preparing to welcome our first baby boy in just one week, making this season of life especially meaningful for our family.
As I share that exciting news, I also want families to know that I will begin the school year on maternity leave while spending time with our newborn son. Although I will not physically start the first day of school alongside students and staff, I have already begun working closely with district and building leadership to ensure a smooth transition into the school year. During my absence, Mrs. Barb Snare, former principal of Hayshire Elementary, will serve as Interim Principal. Mrs. Snare brings tremendous experience and leadership, and I am grateful that the North Hills community will be in such caring and capable hands while I am away.
Throughout my years in education and school leadership, I have learned that students thrive when high expectations are paired with strong relationships, support, and a sense of connection. I look forward to officially joining the North Hills community later this fall, building relationships with students, staff, and families, and continuing the incredible work already happening throughout the school community.
Please never hesitate to reach out with questions, concerns, or simply to introduce yourself. Your child is our top priority, and I look forward to partnering with your family throughout your journey at North Hills.
Proud to be a Panther!
Patricia Van Valkenburg, Ed.D.
Principal
pvanvalkenburg@cysd.k12.pa.us
Central York School District
Patricia Van Valkenburg, Ed.D. (Currently on maternity leave)
Principal
pvanvalkenburg@cysd.k12.pa.us
Barbara Snare
Interim Principal
bsnare@cysd.k12.pa.us
Andrew Casale
Assistant Principal
acasale@cysd.k12.pa.us
Our Mission, Vision, and Shared Values
With a unique student body made up of families from all walks of life, you’ll find our students consistently exceeding goals, and always Proud to be a Panther!
Our Mission: Central York School District provides a high-quality academic experience within a supportive, valued, collaborative community that promotes students' personal growth and the pursuit of their passions and interests.
Our Vision: Pursuing Excellence: All Panthers. Every Day. In All Ways.
Our Core Values: Character, Perseverance, Accountability, Community, Excellence
North Hills P.R.I.D.E.
North Hills P.R.I.D.E. is an acronym commonly used across the building as part of the school's character development program. Students are always expected to show their North Hills P.R.I.D.E.!
P: Positive
R: Responsible
I: Involved
D: Diverse
E: Empathetic
All fourth grade and new students receive a North Hills P.R.I.D.E. t-shirt upon starting school. North Hills hosts various spirit days throughout the school year where students are invited to wear their shirts.
