November 7, 2025
As we enter the first week of November, I’m excited to share the momentum we’re building
together across the Shaler Area School District. The fall season has brought incredible energy,
with students, staff, and families actively engaging in school events, meaningful learning
experiences, and celebrations. November is a time for reflection, gratitude, and continued
growth, and I am proud to see how our district embodies these values every day.
As we enter a new month filled with exciting events and important updates, we remain deeply grateful for the continued partnership and support of our families and community. Here’s a look at what’s happening across Shaler Area.
Backpack Initiative Food Drive
The Shaler Area School District has launched its Backpack Initiative Food Drive, running from November 4 through November 14. The initiative aims to support students and families in need across the district by collecting essential food and hygiene items. There are no eligibility requirements—just complete the short online registration form by clicking here.
Donation drop-off locations include all district schools and Ruckus Café. Items requested include:
- Breakfast: oatmeal, cereal, granola bars, fruit cups, Pop-Tarts
- Snacks: crackers, trail mix, pretzels, rice cakes, dried fruit
- Meal items: soup, pasta cups, mac & cheese, ready-to-eat rice
- >Treats: cookies, snack cakes, pudding cups, mini muffins
- Hygiene items: deodorant, chapstick, combs, and feminine hygiene products
This effort is part of the district’s ongoing commitment to support the well-being of our students and families. We are grateful for the partnership of our community and local businesses, including Ruckus Café, in helping ensure every child has what they need to thrive.
Holiday Card Competition
The Shaler Area School District is inviting students to participate in the annual Winter Holiday Card Design Contest. Entries may include photographs, paintings, drawings, or digital artwork that reflect Shaler Area pride and traditions.
- Deadline: Monday, November 17, 2025, at 5:00 p.m.
- Submission: Email artwork to butlerc@shalerarea.org (include name, grade, phone number, and email).
- Guidelines: 7″ x 5″ format, no words or religious references; one entry per person.
- Winners announced: November 19, 2025.
Winning designs will be featured on the district’s official holiday card and shared throughout the Shaler Area community. Click here for more information.
Veterans Day Breakfast
Our district is proud to honor veterans through meaningful programs that celebrate their service. The Middle School’s annual Veteran’s Day Breakfast was a resounding success, welcoming 300–400 veterans from across the region. With heartfelt hospitality, student leaders served breakfast and assisted with cleanup, while the band and chorus delivered moving performances. This event underscored the Middle School’s dedication to honoring those who served.
Shaler Area Elementary 6th Grade Fall Play – The Trial of the Wicked Witch
Our talented 6th-graders at Shaler Area Elementary will perform The Trial of the Wicked Witch on November 21 at 6:00 p.m. in the auditorium. It’s a wonderful opportunity to support our young performers and enjoy a classic tale brought to life!
Staff Spotlight: Dennis Reagle
Mr. Reagle, Gifted Educator at Shaler Area Middle School, is constantly fostering community partnerships and facilitating enrichment opportunities for his students. One amazing opportunity this semester is the What’s So Cool About Manufacturing film competition that pairs storytelling with engineering exploration. Through partnering with Catalyst Connections, Shaler Area Middle School has two full-film production teams competing in this year’s state-wide competition. Student production teams of a Producer, Creative Director, Camera Operator, Sound Technician, and Editor, are paired with a local manufacturing facility to create a film that highlights the work they do and what makes that facility special. Shaler Area Middle School students are creating films about Ace Wire Spring & Form and Mitsubishi Electric Power Products. Thank you, Mr. Reagle for empowering our students to discover and grow.
As the fall season unfolds, I’m continually reminded of what makes Shaler Area such a special place—the collaboration, pride, and unwavering dedication that unite our community. Each week showcases the remarkable achievements of our students, the commitment of our staff, and the ongoing support of our families. Together, we’re cultivating an environment where every Titan is encouraged to explore their potential and thrive.
Thank you for your partnership and for helping make Shaler Area a district defined by excellence, opportunity, and heart.
With Titan Pride,
