The Panther Valley School Board hired a new superintendent Thursday.

Dennis Kergick Sr., who serves as the supervisor of curriculum and federal programs in the North Schuylkill School District, begins his duties at Panther Valley on July 1.The school board unanimously agreed to the appointment, offering Kergick a three-year contract and an annual salary of $97,000.The new school official succeeds Rosemary Porembo, who has been the superintendent since 2007.Porembo, who was hired as an elementary teacher at Panther Valley in 1977 and advanced to the superintendent position, is retiring at the end of this school year.Kergick, of Frackville, attended Thursday's meeting with his wife, Darlene, and his children, Dennis Jr. and Melissa.When introduced to the audience at the board meeting, Kergick said he intends to work closely with the administration, teachers, and support staff in the district.Jeff Markovich, board president, read the resume of Kergick.He has a bachelor of science degree in secondary education, social studies from East Stroudsburg University, and a master's degree in elementary education from Kutztown University.He received his principal certification from Alvernia College and his superintendent's letter of eligibility from Edinboro University.Currently, he is enrolled in a doctoral program in educational leadership at East Stroudsburg University.Markovich said, "We welcome him to the Panther Valley family. Dennis has the personal qualities that complement the demands of the role of superintendent."We are confident that he will meet the daily challenges of the superintendent's role and set a vision for our future."