February 21, 2025

Dear Shaler Area Families,

As another busy week at Shaler Area comes to a close, we are excited to share some highlights and important updates. This week’s recap includes student achievements in career and technical education, arts, and STEM competitions, as well as key upcoming events, the 2025–2026 school calendar and reminders. These updates reflect our continued commitment to Engage, Empower, and Excel in all we do.

2025–2026 School Calendar Approved
At the February 19th Board of School Directors meeting the annual school calendar for the 2025–26 school year was approved. To view the calendar and associated dates, please click here.

Shaler Area High School Artists Recognized in the 2025 Regional Scholastic Art Competition
Shaler Area High School is proud to have 17 works of art selected for the 2025 Regional Scholastic Art Competition! Congratulations to the following students for their outstanding artistic achievements:

• Gold Key Awards: Riley Sines and Alexisse Ragana
• Silver Key Awards: Alison Little and Anna Lenartova

Honorable Mention Awards:

• Riley Gumpher
• Allison Little
• Maren Donahue
• Elise Williams
• Anna Lenartova
• Riley Sines

Their creative talents continue to inspire and represent Shaler Area’s commitment to the arts!

Shaler Area Students Recognized at A.W. Beattie Career Center
Several Shaler Area students have been named A.W. Beattie Career Center Students of the Month for January and February 2025, recognizing their dedication and excellence in career and technical education.

Congratulations to:

• Automotive Collision Technology – Daniel Krawczak
• Cosmetology – Ryleigh Meinert, Dominika Ciesluk, Elizabeth Standfast, Olivia Lourenco
• HVAC – Dustun Corfield
• SMART-EST – Noah Lang
• Veterinary Sciences – Brody Wohlgemuth

These students exemplify Shaler Area’s commitment to career readiness and hands-on learning.

Shaler Area Middle School Excels at Science Bowl 2025
Students from Shaler Area Middle School had a wonderful time competing in the Carnegie Museum of Natural History for Science Bowl 2025. Special congratulations to Katie P, Zelia W, Santana M, and Lydia N for placing first in their competition!

Hands-On Learning: Fire Academy Training
We are excited to share that Shaler Area High School students are gaining real-world experience through the Allegheny County Fire Academy program! This innovative partnership allows students to earn academic credit while receiving hands-on firefighter training. Throughout the program, students develop essential skills such as fire suppression, emergency response, and life-saving techniques—building a strong foundation for future careers in emergency services while making a meaningful contribution to their communities. A special thank you to the Allegheny County Fire Academy and our dedicated students for embracing this valuable opportunity.  Click here to view a recent feature on WTAE News.

Tickets Now on Sale for SAHS Spring Musical – Guys & Dolls
Tickets are available for Shaler Area High School’s production of Guys & Dolls, with performances on February 21-23, 28, and March 1.

• Purchase tickets online by clicking here
• Visit the High School Activities Office (Monday–Friday, 6:30 a.m. – 2:30 p.m.)
• Ticketing kiosks available one hour before each show

A FREE senior citizens (65+) dress rehearsal will be held on Thursday, February 20, at 5:00 p.m. No tickets or RSVP needed—doors open at 4:30 PM, with light refreshments served at intermission.

SAHS Open House & College to Career Night
Thursday, February 27, 6:00–8:30 p.m., Shaler Area High School

This event is designed to help students align academic choices with future goals by providing career exploration, college connections, and real-world opportunities.

What to Expect:

• Course Planning Support – Teachers and counselors available to help plan 2025–26 schedules.
• Career & Technical Programs – Meet representatives from A.W. Beattie Career Center and The Allegheny County Fire Academy.
• College & Dual Enrollment – Learn about College in High School (CHS) opportunities with the University of Pittsburgh, CCAC’s BNY Mellon Early College Program, and more.
• Career Pathways & Workforce Training – Explore hands-on programs that lead to career success.
• Student Support Services – Connect with resources for academic and career planning.

This event is perfect for students and families in grades 8–11 who want to explore academic and career pathways. Parents and students are encouraged to attend to learn about academic planning and career opportunities.

Update Your Contact Information
We want to remind all families to complete any necessary paperwork and update your contact information via Infinite Campus. Keeping your information current ensures that you receive important communications from the school and helps us maintain accurate records for your child. If you need assistance with accessing or updating your information, please contact us at infinite@shalerarea.org.

A.W. Beattie Fish Fry
The A.W. Beattie Career Center Fish Fry will take place on March 14, 21, and 28, and April 4 and 11 from 11:00 a.m.–1:30 p.m. Dine-in and takeout options are available, but pre-orders are not accepted. The event will be held at A.W. Beattie Career Center, 9600 Babcock Blvd, Allison Park, PA 15101. For more information, visit www.beattietech.com..

Glenshaw Century Club Scholarship Grant Applications Now Open!
The Glenshaw Century Club is also hosting its Spring Craft Fair on Saturday, March 1, from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. at Bethlehem Lutheran Church, 1719 Mount Royal Boulevard, 15116. This annual event features over 60 crafters and vendors, offering unique handmade goods. Attendees can enjoy free admission, raffles, a gourmet bake sale, and food to go while supporting local artisans and the community.

The Glenshaw Century Club is accepting scholarship grant applications! The online application and details can be found on their website.

• Deadline: Friday, March 15, 2025
• How to Apply: Complete the online form

The Glenshaw Century Club has proudly supported Shaler Area High school seniors pursuing higher education for over 60 years, awarding more than $650,000 to date. This grant is designed to advance education and improve our community members’ futures.

143 Day T-Shirt Contest – “Kindness Grows Here”

Students are invited to participate in the 143 Day T-Shirt Contest! Submissions are due by February 28 to art teachers. Designs must be 8.5” x 10”, black and white only. Contact Monica C. McElwain at mcelwainm@shalerarea.org with questions.

Employment Opportunity
The Shaler Area School District is currently accepting applications for the following positions:

• Full-time, part-time, and substitute custodial positions: Candidates will be responsible for cleaning and maintaining our 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.
• Two (2) full-time support positions in the Business Office: Administrative Secretary – Transportation and Accounts Payable Clerk: The ideal candidate for either role must have demonstrated knowledge of computer technology relating to school business operations, at least intermediate-level experience in Microsoft Word/Excel, and high customer-service skills. These roles offer a competitive salary and benefits package. Required clearances include Act 34, Act 151, and Act 114. For more information or to apply, email HR@shalerarea.org or call 412-492-1200 ext. 2803.

If you or someone you know is interested in these opportunities, we encourage you to apply and join our dedicated team of professionals.

Stay Connected
Stay up to date with district news and events by following us on social media:

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

Thank you for your ongoing support of Shaler Area Schools. Your engagement and commitment help create meaningful opportunities for our students, and we appreciate your partnership in fostering their growth and success.

With appreciation and Titan Pride,

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