STATE COLLEGE — State College Area High School principal Laura S. Tobias was announced as Pennsylvania’s 2025 Principal of the Year by the Pennsylvania Principals Association on Thursday, Jan. 9.
Tobias has worked at the State College Area High School since 2016 when she took on the role of assistant principal. She became principal in 2021.
“I am thrilled that Laura Tobias, an exceptional principal and leader, has been chosen as Pennsylvania’s 2025 Principal of the Year. A committee of her peers selected her for this recognition because of her outstanding leadership and contributions to her school, students and community,” Eric Eshbach, PA Principals Association executive director, said. “Mrs. Tobias is a strong, proactive leader who genuinely cares about the success and well-being of her students, staff and the entire school community. We are extremely proud to have her represent the PA Principals Association and secondary principals across the commonwealth.”
As the state winner, Tobias will now be considered for the National Secondary Principal of the Year.
“I am honored and humbled to receive the Pennsylvania Principal of the Year award,” Tobias said. “This recognition belongs to the fantastic team of students, faculty, staff and the entire State College community I’m lucky to work with daily. To the incredible faculty, staff and students at State High, this award is as much yours as it is mine. And, of course, a heartfelt thank you to my family for always being there for me. Every leader is backed by a strong network of love and encouragement, and I couldn’t do this without you.”
The PA Principals Association noted the influence of Tobias’s work at the high school, applauding several initiatives she aided in including her work with the Safety Ambassadors Program, her creation of STEM and humanities learning centers and different mental health summits that were held to support mental health for both students and staff.
“We are extremely proud and excited to celebrate this well-deserved recognition of her leadership and dedication to our school community,” Curtis Johnson, State College Area School District superintendent, said. “Laura’s unwavering commitment to excellence in education, her ability to inspire both students and staff and her passion for creating a positive learning environment make her an exemplary leader. This award reflects her hard work, vision and the impact she continues to make each and every day.”
