December 13, 2024

Dear Shaler Area Families,

As we move through December, there is a renewed sense of excitement and energy throughout our schools and community. The joy of the holiday season is matched only by the enthusiasm of our students, staff, and families. Over the past few weeks, I have had the privilege of engaging with families during the many events held in our schools and throughout our community. From student performances and showcases to community gatherings, it has been heartwarming to see the pride and connection that defines the Shaler Area experience. It is this shared commitment to our students and one another that makes Shaler Area such a special place to learn, grow, and thrive. I am excited to share some recent highlights and upcoming events from across the district:

December Edition of the Shaler Area Showcase
The December edition of the Shaler Area Showcase was released on Wednesday! This monthly newsletter highlights important updates, district accomplishments, and upcoming events from across our schools. It serves as a key communication tool for families and the Shaler Area community.

You can view the December Showcase by clicking here. If you did not receive the Shaler Area Showcase, you can sign up here to stay connected and informed.

Holiday Schedule Reminder
As we prepare to celebrate the holiday season, please note that we will have an early dismissal on Friday, December 20. Classes will resume on Thursday, January 2, 2025.

Goal Spotlight: Ensuring Fiscal Stewardship and Sustainability
A key highlight of our ongoing efforts to Ensure Fiscal Stewardship and Sustainability is the recent award of nearly $1.3 million through the Public School Facility Improvement Grant Program. This significant allocation will directly support critical infrastructure improvements at Shaler Area Middle School, including a proposed roof replacement and essential HVAC system upgrades.

These upgrades are vital to maintaining a safe, comfortable, and effective learning environment for our students and staff. By securing external funding for these key projects, we continue to demonstrate our commitment to responsible financial stewardship while prioritizing the well-being and educational experience of our students. We remain focused on maximizing available resources and making strategic financial decisions that support long-term sustainability for the Shaler Area School District. Further updates on these infrastructure improvements will be shared as the project progresses.

Shaler Area Primary Students Participate in Hour of Code
This week, Shaler Area Primary School students had the opportunity to participate in the Hour of Code, a global initiative to introduce students to computer science and coding. Through interactive, hands-on activities, students explored the basics of coding, problem-solving, and logical thinking. The Hour of Code is part of a larger effort to inspire interest in technology and STEM-related careers, and our students embraced the challenge with creativity and enthusiasm. We are proud of their hard work and excited to see how these foundational skills will support their learning in the future.

Shaler Area High School Students Win Big in Gingerbread Display Competition!
We’re excited to announce that Shaler Area High School had multiple entries in the Gingerbread Display at The Block Northway — and two of our groups placed 1st and 2nd in the Grades 9-12 division!

• 1st Place: “Into the Gingerverse” — designed by seniors Jayden Aryee, Alaina Henline, Riley Sines, Katie Williams, and Delaney Zagger
• 2nd Place: “Up” — designed by sophomores Emily Bedeck and Abby Maher

Both of these incredible gingerbread creations are on display at The Block Northway (lower level between DSW and Land’s End) now through January 15, 2025. Be sure to stop by and see the creativity and talent of our students on full display!

Holiday Concert Highlights for December 16–19
The week of December 16–19 is filled with opportunities to celebrate the holiday season through the incredible musical talents of our students.

• Tuesday, December 17

• • • SAHS Choir and Honors Jazz Ensemble I will perform at the Allegheny County Courthouse from 12:00–1:30 PM, bringing festive cheer to a historic venue.
    • SAES 5th Grade Band will perform at 6:00 PM, followed by the 6th Grade Band Concert at 7:30 PM, both held at SAES.

• Thursday, December 19

• • SAES 5th/6th Grade Strings Concert at 7:00 PM, also at SAES.

These events showcase the dedication and hard work of our talented students, and we encourage families and community members to attend and share in the holiday spirit.

Vote for A.W. Beattie Career Center Students in the PennDOT Paint the Plow Contest!
Your vote counts toward helping our A.W. Beattie Career Center students win the PennDOT Paint the Plow contest! This is an exciting opportunity to showcase the artistic talents of our students and bring recognition to their incredible work.

Online voting runs from Monday, December 9, through Sunday, December 15 at www.penndot.pa.gov/painttheplow. To cast your vote, simply click on District 11 in the table, which will redirect you to the survey where you can select A.W. Beattie Career Center as your choice.

Employment Opportunity
The Shaler Area School District is currently accepting applications for the following positions:

• Full-time, part-time, and substitute custodial positions: Candidates will be responsible for cleaning and maintaining our schools to ensure a clean and safe environment for students and staff. Required clearances include Act 34, Act 151, and Act 114. For more information or to apply, email coylek@shalerarea.org or call 412-492-1200 Ext. 2900.
• Two (2) full-time support positions in the Business Office: Transportation and Accounts Payable: The ideal candidate for either role must have demonstrated knowledge of computer technology relating to school business operations, at least intermediate-level experience in Microsoft Word/Excel, and high customer-service skills. These roles offer a competitive salary and benefits package. Required clearances include Act 34, Act 151, and Act 114. For more information or to apply, email dunnk@shalerarea.org or call 412-492-1200 Ext. 2803.

If you or someone you know is interested in these opportunities, we encourage you to apply and join our dedicated team of professionals.

Thank you for your continued partnership and support. Together, we create an environment where our students, staff, and families thrive. As we enter the holiday season, I am grateful for the kindness, commitment, and collaboration 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