February 14, 2025

Dear Shaler Area Families,

As we move into February, there are many exciting events happening across the district. This week’s update highlights our middle and high school musicals, an upcoming Open House & College to Career Night, and the latest edition of the Shaler Area Showcase newsletter. We also celebrate a big win for our Girls Basketball Team, who secured a share of the Section Championship, and recognize Titan Football standout Joe Rispoli, who signed his National Letter of Intent to continue his athletic and academic career.

Shaler Area Showcase: February 2025 Edition
We are excited to share the February 2025 edition of the Shaler Area Showcase, our district-wide e-newsletter designed to keep you informed about the incredible achievements, programs, and events happening across our schools. Click here to view the latest edition.

National Letter of Intent
Congratulations to Titan Football standout Joe Rispoli, who signed an NCAA National Letter of Intent with Wheeling University last week. He will continue his football career with the Cardinals while pursuing a bachelor’s degree in nursing. Best of luck to Joe as he takes this exciting next step in his academic and athletic journey!

Girls Basketball Section Championships
Congratulations to the Titans Girls Basketball Team on their dominant 51-22 victory over Franklin Regional, securing the Section Championship! This hard-fought win highlighted their defensive strength and resilience.

The team is now in a strong position for a top-four seed in the WPIAL playoffs, which begin tonight at 7:00 p.m. vs. Mars at Shaler Area High School. Best of luck to our Titans as they continue their playoff run!

143 Day T-Shirt Contest – “Kindness Grows Here”
Students are invited to participate in the 143 Day T-shirt contest! Submissions are due by February 28 to art teachers. Designs must be 8.5” x 10”, black and white only. If you have any questions, please contact Monica C. McElwain at mcelwainm@shalerarea.org.

Middle School Musical: All Shook Up
Shaler Area Middle School students proudly present All Shook Up this evening, at 7:00 p.m., and Saturday, February 15, at 2:00 p.m.. Reserved tickets are available for $10 at the SAMS Activity Office. General admission tickets will be sold at the door:

• Adults: $7.00
• Seniors & Students: $5.00

Tickets Now on Sale for SAHS Spring Musical – Guys & Dolls
Tickets are available for Shaler Area High School’s production of Guys & Dolls, with performances on February 21-23, 28, and March 1.

• Purchase tickets online by clicking here or at the High School Activities Office (Monday–Friday, 6:30 a.m. – 2:30 p.m.).
• Ticketing kiosks will also be available one hour before each show.

A FREE senior citizens (65+) dress rehearsal will be held on Thursday, February 20, at 5:00 p.m. No tickets or RSVP needed—doors open at 4:30 PM, with light refreshments served at intermission.

SAHS Open House & College to Career Night
Thursday, February 27, 6:00–8:30 p.m., Shaler Area High School

This event is designed to help students align academic choices with future goals by providing career exploration, college connections, and real-world opportunities.

What to Expect:

• Course Planning Support – Teachers and counselors available to help plan 2025–26 schedules.
• Career & Technical Programs – Meet representatives from A.W. Beattie Career Center and The Allegheny County Fire Academy.
• College & Dual Enrollment – Learn about College in High School (CHS) opportunities with the University of Pittsburgh, CCAC’s BNY Mellon Early College Program, and more.
• Career Pathways & Workforce Training – Explore hands-on programs that lead to career success.
• Student Support Services – Connect with resources for academic and career planning.

This event is perfect for students and families in grades 8–11 who want to explore academic and career pathways. Parents and students are encouraged to attend to learn about academic planning and career opportunities.

A.W. Beattie Fish Fry
The A.W. Beattie Career Center Fish Fry will take place on March 14, 21, and 28, and April 4 and 11 from 11:00 a.m.–1:30 p.m. Dine-in and takeout options are available, but pre-orders are not accepted. The event will be held at A.W. Beattie Career Center, 9600 Babcock Blvd, Allison Park, PA 15101. For more information, visit www.beattietech.com.

Update Your Contact Information
We want to remind all families to complete any necessary paperwork and update your contact information via Infinite Campus. Keeping your information current ensures that you receive important communications from the school and helps us maintain accurate records for your child.

If you need assistance with accessing or updating your information, please contact us at infinite@shalerarea.org.

Looking Ahead
There will be no school on Monday, February 17, in observance of Presidents’ Day.

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: Administrative Secretary – Transportation and Accounts Payable Clerk: 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 HR@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.

Stay Connected
Stay up to date with district news and events by following us on social media:

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

Thank you for your continued support of Shaler Area Schools. I look forward to seeing many of you at our upcoming events.

Sincerely,

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