November 14, 2025
Dear Shaler Area Families,
With November in full swing, I am inspired by the momentum and dedication that unite us across Shaler Area. This month is filled with opportunities to gather as a community, reflect on our progress, and celebrate the meaningful work happening in our schools. Over the past week, our schools also came together to honor our veterans through assemblies, student performances, and heartfelt tributes that recognized the courage and sacrifice of those who have served our nation. Here are some of the recent highlights and upcoming events across our district:
2025–2026 Winter Concert Schedule Released
Our 2025–2026 Winter Concert schedule is now available! These performances showcase the hard work and talent of our students across all grade levels, bringing the holiday spirit to our community. For concert dates, times, and locations, click here.
Holiday Card Competition
The Shaler Area School District is inviting students to participate in the annual Winter Holiday Card Design Contest. Entries may include photographs, paintings, drawings, or digital artwork that reflect Shaler Area pride and traditions.
- Deadline: Monday, November 17, 2025, at 5:00 p.m.
- Submission: Email artwork to butlerc@shalerarea.org (include name, grade, phone number, and email).
- Guidelines: 7″ x 5″ format, no words or religious references; one entry per person.
- Winners announced: November 19, 2025.
Winning designs will be featured on the district’s official holiday card and shared throughout the Shaler Area community. Click here for more information.
Shaler Area High School Fall Play – The Best Christmas Pageant Ever
In this hilarious Christmas classic, a couple struggling to put on a church Christmas pageant is faced with casting the Herdman kids – probably the most inventively awful kids in history. You won’t believe the mayhem – and the fun – when the Herdman’s collide head-on with the story of Christmas! Performances will be held November 14th at 7 p.m. and November 15th at 2 p.m. & 7 p.m. Tickets will be available for purchase online here or at the door 1 hour before each performance. We strongly recommend purchasing your tickets in advance due to the popularity of the show.
Shaler Area Elementary 6th Grade Fall Play – The Trial of the Wicked Witch
Our talented 6th-graders at Shaler Area Elementary will perform The Trial of the Wicked Witch on November 21 at 7:00 p.m. in the auditorium. It’s a wonderful opportunity to support our young performers and enjoy a classic tale brought to life!
Nominations Open for the 2026 Kim Baysek-Young Extra Mile Award
Our district is home to incredible people making an enduring difference. Every day our teachers, paraprofessionals, maintenance workers, cafeteria staff, and more, bring their best to ensure our students have special moments to support their needs and propel their growth.
One way we shine a light on the extraordinary professionals in our district is through the Kim Basek-Young Extra Mile Award. Mrs. Baysek-Young was so much more than a third-grade teacher. She was a tireless advocate who constantly worked to organize programs and events that opened new opportunities for students. This award honors others in our district who don’t stop at good, who aren’t satisfied at great, but go the extra mile to outstanding.
We want to hear your stories. Who has made a difference in the life of your child, your family, or your community? Nominate them for the 2026 Extra Mile Award. Submit your nomination here. It only takes a few moments and nominations are accepted through November 28, 2025.
Have a Ball with the Harlem Wizards
The Shaler Area Basketball Booster Association is hosting the Harlem Wizards at Shaler Area High School. Join us for a dynamic, fun-filled evening for the entire family on Sunday, November 16th, at 6:00 p.m. Get your tickets here.
Thank you for your partnership and for helping make Shaler Area a district defined by excellence, opportunity, and heart.
With Titan Pride,
