The executive director of elementary education in Harford County, Patricia Skebeck, was appointed the interim schools chief following the sudden death of Jacqueline Haas, the school system announced Monday.
“I have known Jackie Haas my entire career with Harford County Public Schools, having taught alongside of her,” Skebeck said in a statement.
“There is no way to replace Jackie; I am honored that I have the opportunity to carry on her legacy by moving Harford County Public Schools forward through this devastating time in order to fulfill our mission.”
Skebeck will serve as the interim superintendent until July 1, by which time the school board expects to name a permanent replacement.
Skebeck began her 44-year career in education teaching in Baltimore County and moved in 1979 to Harford, working as a teaching assistant principal, assistant principal and principal before becoming head of elementary education in 1997.
When she was principal at Hall’s Cross Roads Elementary School in Aberdeen in 1994, she received the Milken Family Foundation National Educators Award, a national recognition given to teachers and principals for effective instruction and professional and policy leadership.
Skebeck also has advised and worked with the State Education Department on task forces on testing and educator talent pools.
School system officials declined to comment on Skebeck’s appointment Monday, out of respect for Haas’ family. They said they would comment after Wednesday, when the last scheduled memorial service for Haas is held.
Haas, who died Dec. 30 from a severe asthma attack, had served nearly 11 years as superintendent.
The school system’s Celebration of Life ceremony for Haas is scheduled for 3 p.m. Wednesday at Aberdeen High School and is open to the public.
