Administration Team

Bethany Koenig, Principal

I'm thrilled to be the principal at Whitehall-Coplay Middle School, where my journey in education began! My passion for this profession, the vibrant campus environment, and the Zephyr pride throughout the Whitehall community first captured my heart during my student teaching placement here at the middle school while I was attending Kutztown University.

After graduating in 2008, I was ecstatic to begin my career teaching fifth grade at Zephyr Elementary. During my five years there, I built many lasting relationships within the Whitehall community and earned my Master's degree in Curriculum and Instruction from Wilkes University. In 2014, I transitioned to Steckel Elementary, where I taught third grade for eight years. This period also saw me complete a Master's degree in Educational Leadership from Lehigh University and earn my Administrative Certification.

Having served as an elementary assistant principal for two years, it was an honor to return to the middle school in a district I've proudly called home throughout my entire career. I'm eager to collaborate with the dedicated staff, incredible students, and supportive families of the Whitehall-Coplay School District to ensure an exceptional educational experience for all our students.

Outside of school, my husband and I live in Perkasie with our two dogs, Hank and Emmylou. In my free time, you'll often find me curled up with a good book, seeking out live music, or enjoying time with friends and family. I love the sunshine and cherish days spent on the beach or at our cabin in the Catskills. Please feel free to reach out to me with any questions, I am here to support both you and your child throughout their middle school journey. 

Andrew Czekner, Assistant Principal

I am thrilled to be at Whitehall-Coplay Middle School as one of your Assistant Principals. With over two decades of experience as a teacher and assistant principal, I have focused on building strong relationships, fostering an inclusive school climate, and decreasing chronic absenteeism by partnering with families to support the whole child.

My educational background includes a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education from West Chester University, a Master of Arts in Reading from East Stroudsburg University, and a Master of Education in Educational Leadership with a Principal Certification from Delaware Valley University. I am currently pursuing a Doctorate in Educational Leadership at Lehigh University.

I am passionate about fostering a positive and supportive learning environment where all students can thrive. I believe in the power of strong school-community partnerships andlove to collaborate with families, staff, and the community to create a thriving learning environment for our students.

When I'm not at school, I enjoy spending time with my wife and two daughters, gardening, hiking, and exploring new places through travel. I am also a huge Philly sports fan – Go Birds!

I am excited to be part of Whitehall-Coplay community and look forward to working with you all to ensure the success of our students.

Joshua Thatcher, Assistant Principal

It is my pleasure to serve you as an assistant principal this year. Over the past 26 years, I have served as an elementary paraprofessional, a middle school math and science teacher, and as a high school assistant principal. Currently, I’m in my 7th year as an assistant principal at Whitehall-Coplay Middle School and have enjoyed each aspect of my career path.

My educational background includes a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education from Cedar Crest College, a Master’s of Education in ESOL from Penn State and a Principal Certification from Cabrini University. 

When I’m not at school, I enjoy spending time with my wife and two children. They help motivate and encourage me to do my very best when serving the Whitehall-Coplay community. In addition to spending time with my family, I enjoy working out, traveling, and doing DIY projects around the house.

As this new school year approaches, I’m excited to get to know you and your child better as we work together to make you and your child’s experience at the Middle School the best it can be.