Meet the Principal

Derek Witmer

The Elizabethtown Area School District unanimously approved Derek Witmer as East High Street Elementary School's principal at the May 26, 2026, Board of School Directors meeting.

Mr. Witmer began his career in education with the Central Dauphin School District (CDSD) in 2017 as a second-grade teacher. During his seven years with CDSD, he was named Teacher of the Year in 2022, served as the Elementary Social Studies Department Chair, participated in curriculum development for English Language Arts, Social Studies, and Science, and led his school's Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) and STEAM committees.

Mr. Witmer joined the Elizabethtown Area School District in 2023 as assistant principal at East High Street Elementary School. In that role, he worked collaboratively with staff, students, and families to support student achievement, foster a positive school culture, and strengthen instructional practices. His experience includes instructional leadership, student support, data-informed decision-making, and building strong partnerships with families and the school community.

Mr. Witmer holds a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education from Grove City College and a Master of Education in Educational Leadership, including principal certification, from California University of Pennsylvania (now PennWest California).

Mr. Witmer can be contacted by phone at (717) 361-0099 or by email at derek_witmer@etownschools.org.