James Moniz Named Parkland High Principal

James E. Moniz II, a former Allentown School District administrator who was a year ago, was named the new principal of Parkland High School on Tuesday night.

On a unanimous verbal vote, the Parkland School Board approved Moniz' promotion, which will be effective July 1. He replaces acting , who is joining the Bethlehem School District as principal of Liberty High School.

Moniz, 39, who is currently Parkland's supervisor of secondary curriculum and instruction, will earn $118,000 as principal.

It will be the third principal at Parkland in less than a year's time. Bailey became acting principal in January, after Principal Howie Lessel went out on medical leave. Lessel subsequently . 

Before joining Parkland in June 2011, Moniz was administrator of strategic initiatives in the Allentown School District. Prior to that, he was principal of Allentown's Dieruff High School, his alma mater.

Moniz, of Bethlehem Township, holds a bachelor’s degree from Millersville University and a master’s degree and principal’s certificate from East Stroudsburg University. 

Moniz was at the school board meeting as the board took its vote. He attended with his wife, Lisa, and his three sons: Jimmy, 10; Michael, 8; and Nicholas, 6.

In a prepared statement, Superintendent Richard Sniscak said, " In the period of time Jim has worked here, he has already had a positive impact on those with whom he works and has earned the respect of his colleagues and supervisors.

"Jim's varied experiences and background contribute to the many strengths and talents he will bring to this position. "

Appointing Moniz were board President Jayne Bartlett, and board members Roberta Marcus, David Kennedy, Lisa Adams, Robert Bold, Robert Cohen and Mark Hanichak. Board members Barry Long and Jef Reyburn were not at the meeting.