Shaler Area

School District

Shaler Area

School District

Shaler Area

School District

Take Five with Dr. O'Black Square graphic

Take 5 with Dr. O’Black — October 10

Take 5 with Dr. O'Black

October 10, 2025

Dear Shaler Area Families,
As we move into the second week of October, there’s a renewed sense of energy and purpose across our schools. Fall is in full swing, and it’s inspiring to see our students so deeply engaged—in the classroom, on the stage, and on the field. From spirit days to service projects, each event continues to showcase the heart of what it means to be a Titan.

Thank you for your ongoing support and partnership as we build on the momentum of the school year. Together, we’re creating opportunities that Engage, Empower, and Excel for every student, every day. As a reminder, there will be no school for students on Monday, October 13, 2025 due to a teacher in-service.

National School Principal Month
October is National Principals Month, a time to recognize and celebrate the incredible leadership and dedication of our school principals and assistant principals. At Shaler Area, our principals are more than building leaders—they are the heart of our schools. Every day, they model what it means to Engage, Empower, and Excel, fostering learning environments where students thrive and staff feel supported and valued.

On behalf of the entire district, I want to express my deepest gratitude to our exceptional leadership team for their unwavering commitment to our students, staff, and community. Their compassion, professionalism, and Titan Pride truly make a difference each and every day.

Staff Spotlight: Brian Duermeyer
The Shaler Area School District is home to educators who are dedicated to conveying information to students in ways that are relevant and meaningful. In 2005, Shaler Area Middle School teacher Brian Duermeyer realized that his students lacked knowledge about the events of 9/11 only a few years before. In the years since, Mr. Duermeyer has led a team of teachers who share personal stories and insights with students to give context and reflection on this key day in American history.

Student Spotlight: Brenden Liptak
Brenden Liptak’s positive attitude and eagerness to help without being asked make him an exemplary student leader and role model at Shaler Area Elementary School. As a sixth-grader on the Titan News Network (TNN), he has shown himself to be a naturally confident and articulate speaker who always challenges himself to be better. His unwavering respect is an example of the character a Shaler Area student should aspire to embody.

Congratulations to the Boys Soccer Team
Congratulations to the Shaler Area Boys Soccer team on their 1-0 victory over Indiana, clinching a WPIAL Playoff spot for the first time in 16 years! Incredible achievement, Titans!

Support for Breast Cancer Awareness
A big shout out to all Shaler Area, students, staff and athletes who participated in the “Pink Out” in honor of Breast Cancer Awareness Month. This meaningful event raised awareness and showed support for a great cause, highlighting the spirit of compassion and unity in our Titan community.

With Titan Pride,

Bryan O'Black Superintendent of Schools

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