About

Kristina “Kristy” Bilderback has served as principal of Highcliff Elementary School since July of 2015.

Prior to North Hills, she was a fifth grade teacher for more than a decade at Bel Air Elementary School in Bel Air, Maryland. She started her career as a seventh-grade language-arts teacher at Magnolia Middle School in Joppa, Maryland.

Bilderback has a bachelor's degree in education with a certificate in elementary education from Indiana University of Pennsylvania. She also has a master's degree in teaching with a specialization in administration from Notre Dame of Maryland University.

In 2021, she was named a Most Valuable Principal by the Pittsburgh Penguins. The Most Valuable Principal (MVP) program, in partnership with Allegheny Intermediate Unit and The Grable Foundation, recognizes principals who demonstrate an innovative approach to learning, a continuous strive for excellence and a passion for their school and students.

Colleen Frankel has served as the assistant principal at Highcliff Elementary School since July 2024.

Prior to North Hills, Dr. Frankel was an assistant principal in the Sto-Rox School District. She also taught elementary school in both the Hampton and Gateway school districts.

Colleen attended Penn State University for elementary education and has a master's degree in education from the University of Pittsburgh. She holds her principal's certification from Duquesne University and a doctorate degree in education from Point Park University.