Donna Steckel, assistant principal at Parkland High School since 2003, has announced her retirement effective July 31. Her career in education spans 39 years.

At a recent school board meeting, District Superintendent Richard Sniscak recognized Steckel's "unwavering support for all programs and her relentless giving to students."

A 1971 graduate of Parkland High School, Steckel was a member of the National Honor Society, the Future Teachers Club, and the cheerleading squad.

She earned a Bachelor of Science degree with honors from Mansfield University, a Master of Education degree from Lehigh, and a certificate in educational leadership from Penn State.

For 28 years, Steckel taught in the Allentown School District, where she was a cheerleading coach and director of school activities.

She received a Teacher of the Year Award in 1991 from Allentown School District.

Sniscak said he has known Steckel since 1977, when both were at Dieruff High School.

"She was my cooking teacher and the cheerleading coach for my [future] wife, Michele," Sniscak said.

Michael Falco, student representative to the board, said Steckel will be missed by students.

He recalled an incident during last year's dress rehearsal for "Phantom of the Opera."

A stage curtain sustained a large rip.

"Don't worry. I'll fix it," Steckel told students.

Falco said she stayed up through the night to sew the torn curtain in time for the first performance.

Two years ago, Steckel was inducted into the Parkland Education Foundation's Wall of Honor exhibited in the main entrance hallway at the high school as a tribute to distinguished alumni.