JEFFERSON TWP — A high school principal in Beaver County will take over as the South Butler School District assistant superintendent in July.

The school board Wednesday night approved David Zupsic’s five-year term, with a starting salary of $114,000 per year. He’s been at Beaver High School since 2007.

Zupsic said he’s excited to work with staff and students, and hopes to encourage a positive psychology, instilling confidence and playing to the strengths of the students.

He has earned a bachelor’s degree from Penn State, a master’s from Youngstown State and is now completing a doctoral dissertation at YSU.

Before becoming principal at Beaver High School, he was an assistant principal in the Riverside and Moon school districts.

Mike Leitera, the current assistant superintendent at South Butler, will be taking over as superintendent this fall. Leitera succeeds Dale Lumley, who will become superintendent in the Butler School District.