Our Board consists of nine members elected to serve, without compensation, for overlapping terms of four years each. These roles often include long hours, a great deal of sacrifice, and a strong sense of dedication to the mission of the District.
It is our belief that the role of the School Board is to support the District’s mission of providing every student the opportunity to grow and achieve. Our District embraces the Pennsylvania School Board Association’s principles for governance and leadership as a foundation, with the intention to: Advocate Earnestly, Lead Responsibly, Govern Effectively, Plan Thoughtfully, Evaluate Continuously, Communicate Clearly, and Act Ethically.
President
Region III
Term 2024-2028
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“Every child deserves a champion—an adult who will never give up on them, who understands the power of connection, and insists that they become the best that they can possibly be.” -Rita Pierson
A dedicated advocate for educational equity and excellence, Dr. Carol Sprinker brings over two decades of experience in public education to her role as President of the Blackhawk School Board of Directors. A proud Beaver County native, Dr. Sprinker's educational journey began at Riverside High School and continued with a B.A. in Elementary Education and an M.Ed. in Administration and Supervision from Duquesne University. She later earned her Doctorate in Educational Leadership from the University of Pittsburgh.
Dr. Sprinker currently serves as Executive Director and Secretary of The Wright Promise, and as a Regional Service Specialist with the Pennsylvania Principals Association. Her work in both Beaver and Allegheny Counties has positioned her as a strong voice for students, teachers, and school leaders alike.
In addition to her service on the Blackhawk School Board, Dr. Sprinker is an active member of the Jumet Charitable Foundation, reinforcing her belief in education as the cornerstone of community growth.
Outside her professional commitments, Carol treasures time with her husband and two sons. Together, they embrace the outdoors, enjoy traveling, and worship at Pathway Church—grounding their lives in faith, family, and purpose.
Rachel Cline proudly serves as a member of the Blackhawk School District Board of Directors. With a strong commitment to educational excellence and student success, she brings a thoughtful and collaborative approach to her role. Ms. Cline advocates for policies and initiatives that support student achievement, staff development, and community engagement. Her passion for public education and belief in the potential of every student guide her work on the board. As a dedicated community member, she values transparency, accountability, and fostering a positive learning environment for all students in the Blackhawk School District.
Treasurer
Region I
Term 2024-2028
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Mathew Shope is a dedicated member of the Blackhawk School District Board, committed to fostering educational excellence and student success. A graduate of Lincoln High School in Ellwood City, Mr. Shope earned a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering from Penn State University and a Master of Science in Engineering Science from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute (RPI).
Beyond his professional background in engineering, Mr. Shope is actively involved in the community as a soccer coach for BASA. His passion for education and youth development is deeply personal—he and his wife have five children, two of whom have graduated from Blackhawk and are now in college, while three currently attend the district’s schools.
Guided by the belief that “Children are the world’s most valuable resource and its best hope for the future,”—John F. Kennedy, Mr. Shope is dedicated to ensuring that Blackhawk students receive the highest quality education and opportunities to thrive.
Adam VanZalinge serves as a valued member of the Blackhawk School District Board of Directors. He is committed to ensuring that all students receive a high-quality education in a safe, supportive, and forward-thinking environment. Mr. VanZalinge brings a thoughtful perspective to board discussions, guided by a strong belief in educational equity and community partnership. His dedication to fiscal responsibility, student-centered decision-making, and long-term planning helps advance the district’s mission. A proud advocate for public education, Mr. VanZalinge works collaboratively with fellow board members, administrators, and families to support the success of every student.
Andrew Huyzak is a dedicated member of the Blackhawk School District Board, serving as the board liaison to the Career and Technical Center. Committed to putting students first, Mr. Huyzak brings a deep passion for leadership and history to his role, making his contributions to the board both valuable and impactful.
Region II
Term 2024-2028
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“My goal is to ensure every student has the support and opportunity to thrive, because when we nurture bright minds and caring hearts, we empower an entire community to grow together.” -Mark
A proud graduate of Blackhawk High School, Mr. Zachewicz brings a deep-rooted commitment to the community and a strong belief in the power of public education. He earned his Bachelor of Science in Business Management from Penn State University, Behrend Campus, and applies his leadership and organizational skills to serve the district with integrity and purpose.
As a father of three students currently attending Blackhawk schools and husband to Maggie, a dedicated physician assistant, Mr. Zachewicz understands firsthand the importance of a well-rounded, supportive educational environment. Actively involved in youth sports, he is a familiar face on the sidelines and in the stands, always cheering on the next generation.
His passion for educational excellence and his focus on student success guide his work on the Board, ensuring that Blackhawk continues to grow as a place where students are inspired, supported, and prepared to lead.
Region II
Term 2021-2025
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Dr. Frank Makoczy brings a strong background in science, healthcare, and community engagement to his role as a Blackhawk School District Board Director. He earned his Doctorate in Dental Surgery after completing his undergraduate studies with a Bachelor of Science in Chemistry, Biology, and Pre-Med/Pre-Dental, along with a minor in Mathematics.
Beyond his professional achievements, Dr. Makoczy is passionate about health, wellness, and lifelong learning. He stays active through exercise, golf, and competing in the track and field events of the Senior Olympics. Additionally, he has a keen interest in the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE), reflecting his analytical mindset and strategic thinking.
Dr. Makoczy is dedicated to supporting students and ensuring that Blackhawk School District provides a strong academic foundation to prepare them for future success.
A 1992 graduate of Blackhawk High School, Ryan Wissner brings a lifelong connection to the district and a steadfast commitment to its continued growth and success. He holds a Bachelor’s degree in Health Science and a Master’s in Occupational Therapy from Duquesne University, as well as an MBA with a Healthcare concentration from Robert Morris University.
As a proud father of three Blackhawk graduates—now all in college—Mr. Wissner understands the importance of a strong, supportive educational environment. Throughout his children’s upbringing, he was actively involved in youth sports and numerous community activities within Chippewa Township, fostering connections that continue to shape his service on the Board.
His dedication to the district extends beyond academics, demonstrated through his work with a local fundraising group to relocate the athletic field from Northwestern Elementary School to Blackhawk High School—an effort that reflects his passion for student opportunity, school spirit, and community engagement.
With deep roots in the Blackhawk area and a professional background that blends healthcare and business leadership, Mr. Wissner is committed to ensuring Blackhawk School District remains a place where students are empowered to succeed—both in the classroom and beyond.
Bobbi Mansell is a dedicated member of the Blackhawk School District Board, committed to fostering a strong educational environment for all students. She earned a Bachelor of Science in Engineering, Management & Technology with a focus in Mechanical Engineering, as well as an Associate of Science in Industrial Engineering from Purdue University.
Believing in her values of faith, family, and service to others, Bobbi is passionate about giving back to the community. Her children, Morgan (Class of 2010) and Brandon (Class of 2012), benefited from an outstanding education at Blackhawk, inspiring her continued dedication to the district.
Living by the words, “I never lose. I either win or I learn.”—credited to Nelson Mandela, Bobbi strives to ensure that all Blackhawk students have the resources and opportunities to succeed.