Durn takes helm at Mifflin County Academy
New director eyes growth, opportunities
SAM BAUMGARDNER Trending
SAM BAUMGARDNERA. Michael Durn is the new administrative director at the Mifflin County Academy of Science and Technology in Lewistown.
After spending four years as an assistant principal at Mifflin County High School and more than two decades in education, new Administrative Director A. Michael Durn said the decision to pursue the position came from a deep appreciation for the Academy’s mission and the impact it has on students throughout the region.
“Over my time at MCHS, I was always impressed by the number of opportunities that our students at the Academy were able to take advantage of while learning there,” Durn said. “When I became aware of the position, I made the decision that I wanted to be a part of the continuation of those opportunities.”
A strong foundation for student success
The Academy serves students from both Mifflin and Juniata counties, providing career and technical education programs that prepare students for careers, industry certifications and post-secondary education.
According to Durn, what makes the institution special is not only the quality of the educational programs but also the dedication of the staff and support from the local community.
“Our staff prepares young people to be successful once they walk out of our doors as seniors,” he said. “They are invested in their lives and want what’s best for them as people.”
He also credits the Academy’s strong partnerships with local businesses as a major factor in its success. Those relationships create valuable hands-on learning experiences and help students gain practical workforce skills before graduation.
“There is strong community support for the Academy, with many businesses in our community partnering with us to help mold our students for the workforce,” he said. “I couldn’t wait for the opportunity to be a part of that.”
Working alongside respected leadership
The new director steps into the role following the leadership of former director Laura Hicks and alongside Principal Mark Crosson, whom he has known and worked with for several years.
Their professional relationship began when Crosson served as a substitute principal following his retirement and continued when he worked in the district’s transportation office. Over the past two years, the two collaborated while serving as administrators in different district buildings.
“I have the utmost respect for Mr. Crosson, not just as an educational leader but also as a person,” Durn shared. “He is a person of high integrity who works diligently to establish relationships with both students and staff that help promote opportunities for our students.”
That professional respect has helped create a smooth transition into the Academy’s leadership team and has allowed the new director to focus on future growth.
Goals focused on growth and opportunity
Rather than implementing major changes, the director said his focus will be on building upon the progress already underway.
“I am looking forward to continuing the progress that Laura Hicks and Mr. Crosson have made over the past two years,” Durn said.
Among his primary objectives is strengthening partnerships with local businesses and community stakeholders. He believes those relationships are critical to creating opportunities that help students develop real-world skills before entering the workforce.
“I want to continue to develop even more relationships with local businesses to provide as many opportunities for our students as possible,” he said. “I also want to continue the progress in engaging all stakeholders in our Academy.”
Another key goal is increasing credentialing opportunities for students. Industry-recognized certifications can provide graduates with a competitive advantage, whether they choose to enter the workforce immediately or continue their education.
“I’ll be working with our staff to establish more credential opportunities for our students, so they have more tools in their tool belt when they graduate,” he said.
Familiar faces and familiar communities
The transition into the director’s chair comes with another advantage: familiarity with many of the students who attend the Academy.
Having spent four years at Mifflin County High School, Durn already knows many students and families from the communities served by the Academy.
“I do think that can help,” he said. “But students from both Mifflin and Juniata counties deserve a director who is invested, engaged and affirming in the work they are doing while at the Academy.”
He believes advocacy is among the most important responsibilities of the job.
“This position requires a tremendous amount of work as an advocate for the programs we operate,” Durn said. “I look forward to continuing to strongly advocate for the great work that has already been completed and will be completed in the future.”
His familiarity with Academy faculty and staff has also been beneficial.
“Knowing many of the great staff that work at the Academy was definitely a help,” Durn added.
Passion for career and technical education
When discussing what excites him most about his new role, the director points to the unique opportunities provided through career and technical education.
For him, one of the most rewarding aspects is seeing students apply what they learn and witness immediate results from their efforts.
“Students can see the immediate impact of their hard work and efforts,” Durn said. “They have staff that strongly support them and a community that deeply cares for the well-being of the Academy.”
He also believes the Academy stands among the best career and technical education programs in Pennsylvania.
“I believe we have one of the strongest CTE programs in the state,” he said. “I’ve been affirmed of that through discussions with other CTE leaders since taking this job.”
The combination of supportive teachers, engaged community partners and motivated students creates an environment where young people can thrive, he added.
From the classroom to educational leadership
The director’s path to educational leadership began decades ago.
Originally from New Jersey, he notes that his family’s roots are in Pennsylvania. He earned his undergraduate degree from Grove City College and spent 22 years teaching social studies before moving into administration.
His teaching career included two years at Southern Huntingdon and 20 years at Penns Valley, helping shape generations of students.
In 2020, he completed a master’s degree in educational leadership from California University of Pennsylvania, preparing him for leadership roles in education.
He later joined Mifflin County High School as assistant principal, gaining valuable experience working with students, faculty and families throughout the district.
"Mr. Durn joined The Academy this summer as the administrative director, and I am excited to welcome him to the team," Mifflin County School District Superintendent of Schools Vance Varner said. "I believe he and Mr. Crosson will make a strong leadership team, bringing complementary strengths, experience, and perspectives to their work with the staff and students at The Academy."
Looking ahead
As the Academy continues to expand opportunities for students and strengthen community partnerships, its new administrative director is focused on maintaining the momentum already established.
His vision centers on student success, workforce readiness and meaningful connections with local employers and community stakeholders.
By building on a strong foundation, expanding credentialing opportunities and advocating for the Academy’s programs, he hopes to ensure that every student graduates with the skills, confidence and experience needed to succeed.
“We have a tremendous opportunity here,” he said. “I look forward to continuing the great work that’s already been done and helping create even more opportunities for our students in the years ahead.”