November 6, 2026
Dear Shaler Area Families,
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.
I invite you to join me next Wednesday for our monthly Coffee & Conversation from 7:30–9:00 am at Reserve Primary School.
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.
Pgh Penguins Most Valuable Principal (MVP)
Do you know a principal who goes above and beyond for their school community? The Allegheny Intermediate Unit, The Grable Foundation, and the Pittsburgh Penguins Foundation are teaming up to recognize 15 outstanding principals across Allegheny County through the Penguins Most Valuable Principal (MVP) program!
Selected principals will receive a customized Penguins jersey, two tickets to a Pittsburgh Penguins game in a party suite, and a $1,000 donation to their school!Help us celebrate the school leaders who inspire excellence, foster innovation, and make a lasting impact on students, staff, and families. Nominations are open through November 20, 2026! Nominate a deserving principal today: https://loom.ly/GPGMJYQ
Student Spotlight: Lucy Blobner
Congratulations to Lucy Blobner, who won this year’s competition to design the cover of the Shaler Area Elementary School memory book. Lucy’s creativity made her submission to this year’s contest stand out among a group of stellar submissions. Each entry was a beautiful reminder of the memories, friendships, and unforgettable moments that make SAES school so special.
Staff Spotlight: Kristen Paul
Kristen Paul, a Family and Consumer Sciences (FACS) teacher at Shaler Area High School, brings her passion for learning and community involvement beyond the classroom as a dedicated volunteer at the Depreciation Lands Museum in Hampton Township. This living history museum preserves the stories of early settlers in the area through historic buildings, demonstrations, and engaging educational experiences. Kristen and her daughters recently guided visitors through the museum’s enchanting Lantern Tours, sharing local history and fables by lantern light. Her commitment to preserving the past and sharing it with others is a wonderful example of how educators make a difference in their communities, both inside and outside the classroom.
Nominations Open for the 2026 Kim Baysek-Young Extra Mile Award
Our employees are the heartbeat of our district. Each school is filled with educators who are passionate about enriching the lives of our students. In order to recognize the outstanding contributions of our staff members, we have created the Kim Baysek-Young Extra Mile Award to celebrate employees who have gone above and beyond for Shaler Area students or to contribute to the success of the school district.
Do you know a Shaler Area teacher, paraprofessional, administrator, school counselor, administrative assistant, custodian, or other staff member who has gone above and beyond? Nominate that person for Shaler Area’s Extra Mile Award through the online nomination form: https://bit.ly/extramile2026.
Nominations are open through November 9, 2026. Nominations will be reviewed by a panel of district stakeholders, and winners will be announced mid-January.
Family Engagement Night – Roblox and Online Safety
Shaler Area School District, in partnership with the Pennsylvania State Police, invites families to an informative presentation on Roblox and Online Safety on Tuesday, November 17, from 6:00–7:30 p.m. at Shaler Area High School. Designed specifically for parents and guardians of students in grades K–4, this session will explore potential online risks associated with Roblox and provide practical strategies for keeping children safe while gaming and interacting online.
We encourage families to take advantage of this valuable opportunity to learn from law enforcement professionals and promote safe, responsible online behavior. Click here for additional information and registration.
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,
