January 3, 2025

Dear Shaler Area Families,

Happy New Year! As we welcome 2025, I am filled with excitement and optimism for the opportunities this year holds for our Shaler Area community. Together, we will continue to build on our successes and create meaningful experiences for our students, staff, and families.

I am excited to share some important updates and opportunities as we begin 2025 together:

Superintendent’s Coffee and Conversation
Please join us for Coffee and Conversations on Wednesday, January 8, 2025 from 6-7:00 p.m. at Scott Primary School. These casual gatherings are an invitation to get better acquainted with the leadership of our district. All are welcome and no R.S.V.P. is required.

Strategic Planning Community Forum Invitation
We invite you to join us for the 2nd Community Forum on Wednesday, January 8, 2025, from 7:00 to 8:30 p.m. at Scott Primary School. This forum will feature:

• A panel discussion on workforce development skills with leaders from UPMC, A.W. Beattie Career Center, PNC Bank, and Penn State University..
• Topics including workforce trends, addressing skill gaps, and collaboration to enhance career readiness.
• A review of data from community, staff, and student surveys and a discussion on focus areas for our 2025–2030 Strategic Plan rooted in the Portrait of a Graduate framework.

This is a wonderful opportunity to engage in shaping the district’s future. Learn more about this initiative at Shaler Area Portrait of a Graduate. Your presence would highlight our shared commitment to student success.

Support Your Child’s Mental Health
We are hosting an informational session for parents and guardians, led by Stephanie Gresh, focusing on actionable strategies to improve communication with children and support their developmental and emotional needs.

• Date: January 15, 2025
• Time: 5:00–6:00 p.m.
• Location: Shaler Area Middle School Library (in-person) or online via Google Meet

Parents and guardians are encouraged to R.S.V.P. for the session at bit.ly/SASDparentsession.

This session highlights the district’s commitment to fostering meaningful family partnerships and ensuring the emotional well-being of all students.

Mt. Royal Blvd. Drainage Work
PennDot has announced that their contractor, A. Liberoni Inc. will be performing drainage work on Mt. Royal Blvd. beginning this week and continuing for the next two weeks. Work will start at 9:00 a.m. each day and will be weather dependent. Single-lane traffic restrictions will be in effect while work is being performed. While we do not anticipate any significant traffic delays, buses may arrive slightly later than normal as they maneuver through this work.

Be Prepared for Inclement Weather
As the temperatures drop, it’s the perfect time to refamiliarize yourself with procedures for school delays or closings and ensure you have a plan in place in the event of inclement weather. Read more by visiting the district website.

Employment Opportunity
The Shaler Area School District is accepting applications for full-time, part-time, and substitute custodial positions. Candidates will be responsible for cleaning 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.

Stay connected:

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

I wish all of our Shaler Area families a healthy, happy, and successful 2025. Let’s make this year one of growth, opportunity, and shared achievements.

Sincerely,

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