Shaler Area High School biology teachers, Jen D’Angelo and Jade Leung, represented the district with excellence at the Reimagining the High School Experience Workshop on December 5 at the Kamin Science Center. Presenting to a full room of educators from across the region—including Dr. Carrie Rowe, Acting Secretary of the Pennsylvania Department of Education—they shared the district’s innovative efforts to reimagine high school biology through our expanding partnership with the University of Pittsburgh’s PittBio Outreach Program. Their presentation highlighted how Shaler Area biology teachers are integrating STEELS standards, incorporating PittBio Outreach Kits, and providing students with hands-on experiences that mirror real-world biology research, including micropipetting, data analysis, experimental design, and college-level laboratory tools. They also shared how teachers have engaged in professional training, piloted kits during Inservice days, and refined curriculum materials to support both Honors and general biology students. Their presentation not only showcased the forward-thinking instructional practices happening in our classrooms but also reflected the professionalism, creativity, and collaborative spirit of our district.

“Their work with the PittBio Outreach Program and the integration of the STEELS standards is exactly the kind of innovation we want to see. This is a great example of Titan Pride and a testament to their dedication to providing real-world experiences for our students,” shared Dr. Brian Brown, Assistant Superintendent of Schools.