Patricia Skebeck, executive director of elementary education in Harford County, 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 along side 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.”
Skeback will serve as the interim superintendent until July 1 when the school board expects to name a permanent replacement.
School system officials declined to comment out of respect for Haas’ family. They said they would comment after Wednesday, when the last scheduled memorial service for Haas is held.
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 of 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.
Haas, who died this past Tuesday from a severe asthma attack, had served nearly 11 years as superintendent.
