DASD Announces Three New Principals

Three Downingtown Area School District (DASD) schools are beginning the 2026-27 school year with new leadership: Dr. Matthew Barr at Downingtown High School East, Lauren Fiske at Marsh Creek Sixth Grade Center and Kelly Harrison at Beaver Creek Elementary School.

“Dr. Barr, Mrs. Fiske and Mrs. Harrison each bring strong instructional leadership and a commitment to helping every student develop the confidence and skills needed for future success,” said Superintendent Dr. Robert O’Donnell. “We are very excited to welcome Mrs. Harrison to DASD and look forward to seeing Dr. Barr and Mrs. Fiske build upon their years of service to our students, staff, and families in their new leadership roles.”

Dr. Matthew Barr

Downingtown High School East

Barr has devoted his 23-year career in education to DASD. Throughout his career, he has served as a special education teacher, coach and assistant principal. Most recently, he served for three years as principal of Marsh Creek Sixth Grade Center.

Barr earned his bachelor’s degree from West Chester University and his master’s degree in educational leadership and doctoral degree from Immaculata University.

“Our mission as educators is to empower every student to thrive and achieve meaningful success, no matter their individual dreams or aspirations,” said Barr. “I am honored to join the Downingtown East family this year and look forward to sharing awesome memories together!”

Lauren Fiske

Marsh Creek Sixth Grade Center

Fiske has served DASD students and families since joining the district in 2011. For 13 years, she taught gifted education at Beaver Creek, Shamona Creek and Springton Manor elementary schools. Most recently, she spent more than two years as assistant principal of Marsh Creek Sixth Grade Center.

Fiske earned her bachelor’s degree from Kutztown University and her master’s degree in educational leadership, management and policy from Seton Hall University.

“Sixth grade is a year of profound transformation, and our duty as educators is to provide a safe launchpad where academic rigor meets deep empathy,” said Fiske. “We exist not merely to deliver curriculum, but to inspire self-discovery, foster resilience and ensure every student who walks through our doors knows they belong.”

Kelly Harrison

Beaver Creek Elementary School

Harrison joins DASD from the Avon Grove School District, where she served as a teacher, assistant principal and, most recently, principal of Penn London Elementary School. She is also a DASD resident and parent.

Harrison earned her bachelor’s degree in elementary education from Penn State University, her master’s degree from Wilkes University and her principal certification from Cabrini University.

“I believe schools should be welcoming places where students and staff feel excited to learn, grow and succeed together,” said Harrison. “I look forward to partnering with Beaver Creek students, families, and staff to continue creating an engaging and positive learning environment for all.”