SNAPPED: Homegrown leadership charts new path at Park City School District

New PCSD administration: Isaiah Folau, Jacqie Spell, Tracy Fike, Caleb Fine and Lyndsay Huntsman. Photo: TownLift//Randi Sidman-Moore

PARK CITY, Utah — The Park City School District officially introduced a new wave of local leadership during Tuesday’s media event at Jeremy Ranch Elementary School, marking a proud moment for the community and its schools.

Superintendent Lyndsay Huntsman welcomed attendees by emphasizing the significance of appointing leaders who understand the district and are deeply rooted in it.

“All of the leaders stepping into new roles are homegrown,” Huntsman said. “Whether as students, teachers, coaches, or administrators, each has deep roots in Park City and valuable experience within our schools. Their understanding of our district’s culture, values, and community uniquely positions them to lead with heart and experience.”

The event introduced several newly appointed administrators, including Park City High School Principal Caleb Fine, Ecker Hill Middle School Principal Isaiah Folau, Jeremy Ranch Elementary School Principal Jacqie Spell, and Director of Career and Technical Education Tracy Fike.

For Fine, the moment was especially full-circle.

“Talk about Isaiah for a second, because you got to know the true story,” Fine said, grinning. “Isaiah was the student council president at Park City High School when I was the student council advisor. He swore when he left that he’d never step foot in the school again, and I swore I’d make sure he did. I think I delivered.”

Watching a former student return as a peer and fellow leader has been personally meaningful to Fine.

“Obviously, it’s been really special for me,” he added. “I’m just incredibly grateful that I got to serve in this role.”

Folau, now principal at Ecker Hill Middle School, credited his experience in Park City schools with igniting his passion for education.

“My story into education is very cliché, but it’s rooted in tremendous schools and awesome teachers here,” he said. “Being on student council gave me a glimpse into the inner workings of a school—it really made me love what we do. I want to be part of education reform, and Park City is doing that.”

Folau emphasized the district’s commitment to evolving with the times.

“When I look at the support systems we have now, that I didn’t even know existed as a student, it shows just how far we’ve come,” he said. “It’s very exciting, and I feel fortunate to be part of it.”

At Jeremy Ranch Elementary, Principal Jacqie Spell spoke about fostering a school culture that prioritizes trust and emotional safety.

“In education, people come from diverse backgrounds and experiences, but we all come together for the common good,” Spell said. “As principals, we set the stage when we walk in the building. It’s about creating a safe, welcoming space where people can be vulnerable and really feel like they’re part of a family.”

Spell, who recently returned to the district, said she already sees the strength of its support systems.

Tracy Fike, now Director of Career and Technical Education, echoed that sentiment, noting that three of the new leaders, including herself, are parents with children currently enrolled in Park City schools.

“We’re really invested,” Fike said. “My daughter is in middle school, and I was showing her all the CTE options. She was like, ‘I want to take that!’”

Fike credited Huntsman’s previous leadership as CTE director with creating a foundation of exceptional offerings.

“The supports we provide go beyond so many districts,” Fike said. “Whether a student needs enrichment or reading support, we truly try to meet them where they are.”

As the sun streamed through the windows at Jeremy Ranch Elementary, the mood was hopeful—rooted in experience, but clearly focused on the future.

“I’m looking forward to seeing how these leaders will guide us—our employees, families, and community,” Huntsman said. “We’re here to provide access and opportunity for all students to achieve their academic and social potential.”