Dear Shaler Area Community,

It is with great excitement and a deep sense of responsibility that I write to you on my first day as the Superintendent of the Shaler Area School District.

Having served this district for over 15 years in various capacities, I am honored to have the opportunity to now lead a community I know and deeply respect. This district, with its rich history of academic excellence, community involvement, and commitment to fostering a supportive and inclusive environment for all students, holds a special place in my heart.

As we embark on this new journey together, I would like to take a moment to share my vision and goals for our district.

My primary focus is to ensure that every student in the Shaler Area School District receives a high-quality education that prepares them for the challenges and opportunities of the future. This means providing innovative and engaging learning experiences, supporting our dedicated educators, and fostering a culture of continuous improvement.

In my view, the futures we imagine for our students begin with challenging ourselves with a high standard of vision and planning – and in my first 100 days, I aim to engage through active listening and learning, empower with vision, planning and support, and to encourage our ability to excel with data-driven decision-making and a focus on the delivery of continually improving the education we provide for all learners. In the coming weeks, I’ll share more details of a four-phase plan designed to outline the objectives and aspirations of these first 100 days.

To achieve these goals, I believe it is essential to build strong relationships with all members of our community. I am committed to open and transparent communication, and I encourage you to share your thoughts, ideas, and concerns with me. Your input is invaluable as we work together to create the best possible educational experience for our students.

In the coming weeks and months, our entire Executive Leadership Team will be visiting our schools, meeting with staff, students, and families, and learning more about the unique strengths and needs of our district. I look forward to listening to your perspectives and collaborating with you to build on our successes and address any challenges we may face.

I have witnessed firsthand the incredible dedication and passion of our staff, students, and families. I am grateful for the outpouring of support I have already received about my appointment and am excited to continue being an active member of the Shaler Area community. Together, we can ensure that our district continues to be a place where every student can thrive academically, socially, and emotionally.

Thank you for your support and partnership. I look forward to working with you to achieve great things for the Shaler Area School District.

Warm regards,

Bryan O’Black, Ed.D.
Superintendent of Schools
Shaler Area School District