Paula Giran Named 2026 Pittsburgh Penguins MVP

Mrs. Paula Giran, principal of Hance Elementary, has been named a 2026 Pittsburgh Penguins MVP (Most Valuable Principal) by the Pittsburgh Penguins, Pittsburgh Penguins Foundation, Grable Foundation and Allegheny Intermediate Unit. 

The award recognizes principals who demonstrate an innovative approach to teaching and learning and an ongoing commitment to excellence. It reflects the profound impact of Mrs. Giran's leadership and her passion in creating exceptional opportunities for students.

Mrs. Giran is one of 15 principals in Allegheny County selected for this honor. She and the other recipients will be granted two suite tickets to a game in March where all selected principals will be recognized. She will receive a custom Penguins jersey and a $1,000 donation for Hance Elementary School.

Mrs. Giran became principal of Hance Elementary in 2023. Before that, she spent five years as assistant principal at Eden Hall Upper Elementary and served as the principal of Pine-Richland Virtual Academy. Additionally, she was the district administrative lead for the gifted and social studies departments and a member of the district RAMS Way Team. Prior to joining Pine-Richland, Mrs. Giran worked in the Norwin School District as a fifth and sixth-grade gifted education coordinator, fifth-grade math and science teacher, and fourth-grade teacher.