November 8, 2024

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.

With a variety of exciting events, important updates, and new opportunities to shape our district’s future, we are grateful for the partnership and support of our families and community members. Here’s a look at what’s happening across the Shaler Area as we move forward into this new month together.

• Veterans Day Programs
  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.
  Additionally, Marzolf Primary School’s 2nd graders will present a special patriotic performance for Veteran’s Day. This program highlights our youngest students’ appreciation for veterans and their service. We’re proud of our students’ commitment to recognizing and honoring our veterans.

• Glenshaw Century Club Annual House Tour & Craft Fair
  Join us for the Glenshaw Century Club’s Annual House Tour & Craft Fair on November 9, 2024, from 10:00 AM – 3:00 PM! House Tour tickets are $25 in advance ($30 at the door), with proceeds benefiting scholarships for Shaler Area Class of 2025 graduates. The Craft Fair offers FREE admission with 60+ vendors, a bake sale, raffles, and food to go. For details, visit GlenshawCenturyClub.org.
• Shaler Area Elementary 6th Grade Fall Play – Jack & The Beanstalk
  Our talented 6th-graders at Shaler Area Elementary will perform Jack & The Beanstalk on November 15 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!
• Shaler Area Fall Play: “Puffs”
  Join us for Puffs, the story of the other students at a certain wizarding school! Performances are on November 22 at 7 p.m. and November 23 at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m. Tickets are on sale online and will also be available at the door one hour before each show. Advance purchase is recommended due to expected high demand.
• Shaler Area Holiday Card Competition
  We are thrilled to invite Shaler Area students of all grade levels to participate in this year’s holiday card competition! Students are encouraged to submit their holiday-themed artwork by November 20, 2024. Selected designs will be featured on the district’s holiday cards, which will be shared with staff, families, and community partners. We can’t wait to see the creativity of our talented students! For more information, please visit this link.
• Strategic Planning Survey
  As we embark on a new chapter in Shaler Area School District’s journey, we invite all residents of Etna, Millvale, Reserve, Shaler, and Shaler Area alumni to participate in a strategic planning survey. This survey offers an important opportunity for you to help shape our district’s future. Your input will be instrumental in setting meaningful goals and ensuring we continue to “Engage, Empower, and Excel” as we work toward the skills and dispositions outlined in the Portrait of a Graduate. Please take 5–10 minutes to complete the survey by November 9, 2024, at bit.ly/SASDsurvey.
• 2024–2025 Winter Concert Schedule Released
  We are excited to announce the release of our 2024–2025 Winter Concert schedule! This season’s performances will showcase the talents of our students across all grade levels, bringing the holiday spirit to our community. For the full schedule of concert dates, times, and locations, please visit shalerarea.org/2024/11/05/holiday-performances2024/.

Thank you to everyone who makes Shaler Area a vibrant place for learning, growth, and community. We’re grateful for your ongoing support, and we look forward to an exciting November filled with continued progress and shared success.

Yours in education,

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