November 22, 2024

Dear Shaler Area Families,

November is a time of reflection, gratitude, and community, and I am inspired by the dedication and collaboration that define our Shaler Area schools. This month brings opportunities to come together, celebrate accomplishments, and continue the meaningful work that supports our students and families. I’m excited to share some recent highlights and upcoming events happening across the district:

• Primary and Middle School Recognition
  I am proud to announce that Burchfield, Marzolf, Reserve, and Scott Primary Schools, along with Shaler Area Middle School, have been recognized by U.S. News & World Report as Best Elementary and Middle Schools for 2024. This prestigious honor places our schools among the top-ranked institutions in Pennsylvania, highlighting the exceptional dedication of our educators, staff, and administrators to delivering high-quality education and fostering student growth. Congratulations to everyone who contributed to this outstanding achievement!
• Recognition from the Pennsylvania Positive Behavior Support (PaPBS) Network
  I am pleased to share that all schools throughout the Shaler Area School District have received recognition from the Pennsylvania Positive Behavior Support (PaPBS) Network for Fidelity of Implementation in Tiers 1, 2, and 3.
  Last week in Harrisburg, PA, Shaler Area High School was specifically recognized as one of only a handful of high schools across Pennsylvania to receive this esteemed acknowledgment. This achievement reflects the dedication of our educators and staff to creating supportive and inclusive environments that promote student growth and success.
• Supporting Families in Need: Food Drives and Backpack Initiative
  Shaler Area students, staff, and families have come together to support those in need through Thanksgiving food drives and the Backpack Initiative. These efforts showcase the district’s compassionate spirit and commitment to ensuring all students have access to nutritious meals.
  A special shout-out to the Shaler Area Elementary School Student Ambassadors for hosting a food drive this week supporting North Hills Community Outreach! Your dedication to helping those in need exemplifies the values we strive to instill in all our students.
  The Shaler Area Backpack Initiative provides weekend food supplies to students in grades K–12 and is fully funded by donations. We are currently accepting contributions of non-perishable, single-serve food items or monetary donations. If you or someone you know would benefit from this program or if you’d like to donate, visit Shaler Area Backpack Initiative for more information.
• Goal Spotlight: Fostering Student Well-being
  Over the coming weeks, we are diving into our goals for the 2024–2025 school year and exploring how we see them in action in our schools.
  One of our goals for the academic year is Fostering Student Well-being. We want students to build resilience and emotional intelligence to support their personal and academic success.
  A place we see student well-being shining bright is at Monday Morning Meetings at Marzolf Primary School. This year, classrooms at Marzolf are utilizing the Positive Action curriculum, a nationally recognized, evidence-based curriculum for social and emotional learning.
• Shaler Area Fall Play – Puffs
  Performances are on November 22 at 7:00 p.m. and November 23 at 2:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m. Tickets are available online and at the door.
• 2024–2025 Winter Concert Schedule Released
  The schedule is now available, showcasing the talent of our students and spreading holiday cheer. Visit the district website for details.
• Reminder: Thanksgiving Break
  A friendly reminder that we will have an early dismissal on Wednesday, November 27, and school will resume on Tuesday, December 3, 2024. We hope you enjoy this time with family and friends, reflecting on all that we have to be grateful for.
• Holiday Card Design Contest Winner
  We are thrilled to announce that Bella Allegra, a 5th-grade student at Shaler Area Elementary School, has been selected as the winner of the 2024 Shaler Area Holiday Card Design Contest. Bella’s creative design will be featured on the district’s official holiday greeting card this year. Congratulations to Bella for showcasing her artistic talents and representing the creativity of our students!

Thank you for your continued dedication and support. As we approach the holiday season, I am grateful for the commitment and kindness that define our Shaler Area community.

Stay Connected!

• Twitter: @ShalerArea
• Facebook: facebook.com/ShalerAreaSD
• Instagram: @shalerareaschooldistrict

Yours in education,

Bryan E. O’Black, Ed.D.
Superintendent of Schools