Dear Shaler Area Middle School Families and Community Members,
My name is Mitch Shaw, and I am thrilled to introduce myself as the new Assistant Principal of Shaler Area Middle School. I am truly excited to be joining this outstanding community and to work alongside a team of exceptional teachers and dedicated leaders.
I am excited to introduce myself as someone who has always valued both education and teamwork. I hold a Master of Education in Educational Leadership with a K-12 Principal Certification from PennWest University, and I earned my Bachelor of Arts in English Education from Saint Francis University. During my time at Saint Francis, I was proud to be a student-athlete, playing as an outside linebacker for the NCAA Division 1 FCS Red Flash football team while also achieving academic excellence as a consistent member of the Dean’s List from 2011 to 2014.
Over the past two school years, I have served as Dean of Students at both Butler Senior High School and Highlands Middle School, where I played an integral role in supporting the districts’ PBIS and MTSS programs. I placed a strong emphasis on fostering a restorative mindset in each building, helping to create a positive and inclusive climate for all students. Before stepping into an administrative role, I spent eight years as an English teacher, instructing students in grades 6-12 across both alternative and regular educational settings. These experiences have given me a unique perspective, allowing me to connect with students and families beyond the classroom and to seek out solutions that support student success both academically and socially.
In my professional life, I am guided by four core values that shape my approach to leadership: People First Mentality: I believe in putting people at the center of all decisions. Every student, teacher, and staff member matters, and I am committed to supporting you in any way I can. Transparency: Clear and open communication is key. You will always know where I stand, and I encourage the same openness from all of you. Collaboration: Together, we can achieve great things. I am here to work with you, side by side, to create the best possible environment for our students. We are truly in this together. Honesty: Integrity is non-negotiable. You can count on me to be straightforward and fair in every interaction.
As we move forward together, I am committed to highlighting the many positives happening within our school, strengthening our community connections, and creating the best possible learning environment for your children. I am excited about the opportunities ahead and look forward to working with you to ensure every student at Shaler Area Middle School has an exceptional educational experience. Together, we can make this a great year for everyone.
Sincerely,
Mitch Shaw
Assistant Principal
Shaler Area Middle School
