January 16, 2026

Dear Shaler Area Families:

As we step into a new week, there is a strong sense of purpose and momentum across our schools. Classrooms are buzzing with learning, students are leaning into new challenges, and our staff continue to create engaging, supportive environments where every child can grow. Whether through hands-on lessons, collaborative projects, or moments of connection in the hallways, it’s clear that our community remains deeply committed to helping students thrive. That collective energy—rooted in care, high expectations, and Titan pride—continues to drive us forward as we build on the great work already underway this year.

Thanking Our Board of School Directors
January is School Board Recognition Month, and we are incredibly grateful for the elected officials who serve Shaler Area in this vital role. At our January 14th meeting, we took the opportunity to thank each member of our school board for their time, attention, insight, and dedication to serving our students, families, and the wider community.

Please join us in recognizing our 2026 Shaler Area School Board of Directors:

• James Tunstall, President
• Eileen Phillips, Vice President
• Daeja Baker
• Robert Cessar
• Elizabeth Dunn
• Amy Goldberg
• Edward Kress
• Jason Machajewski
• Dorothy Petrancosta

Their leadership and commitment play a critical role in guiding the district to Engage, Empower, and Excel. We thank them for their steadfast dedication to Shaler Area!

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.

Marzolf Students Explore Manufacturing Careers
Our 1st–3rd grade students at Marzolf Primary recently had an exciting opportunity to engage in hands-on STEM learning during a visit from BotsIQ. Students explored a variety of manufacturing careers, learned how CNC machines operate, and discovered how coordinates are used to program laser engravers. The highlight of the experience was designing and engraving their own pencils to take home—bringing learning to life in a meaningful and memorable way. Experiences like this spark curiosity, build problem-solving skills, and help our students begin to see themselves as future innovators at an early age, fully aligned with our commitment to preparing students for a rapidly changing world.

Student Spotlight: Rex Rizzo
Rex Rizzo, a second-grader at Scott Primary School and member of the Pittsburgh Vengeance Hockey Team, was selected to be the DICK’S Sporting Goods Junior Starter of the Game earlier this month. As part of this honor, Rex skated onto the ice at PPG Paints arena and stood on the blue line next to the Pittsburgh Penguins starting lineup during the singing of the national anthem on January 1, 2026. Rex was selected based on an essay he wrote about his hockey experience and leadership lessons of respect and sportsmanship he’s learned through hockey. Rex first learned these key character traits long before he ever learned how to skate. He follows the Scott House System: Respect, Perseverance, Friendship, Responsibility, Trustworthiness, and Kindness both on and off the ice!

Staff Spotlight: Kathy Newport
Kathy Newport, School Social Worker and SAP Coordinator at Shaler Area Middle School, is an invaluable member of the SAMS community who consistently goes above and beyond for our students and families. She works tirelessly to support and improve student attendance, recognizing the critical role it plays in overall student success. Kathy is especially effective at connecting students and families with essential services and resources beyond the academic setting, ensuring that their social, emotional, and behavioral needs are met. In addition to coordinating the traditional SAP program, she also leads the Advanced Tiers SAP program, providing students with targeted interventions and ongoing support tailored to their individual needs. Through her dedication, compassion, and proactive approach, Kathy helps create a supportive environment where students are empowered to overcome challenges and thrive each day at SAMS.

Stay Connected
Follow us on social media to celebrate all that’s happening in Shaler Area:

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

Here’s to a New Year filled with growth, connection, and continued success for our students and community.

With Titan Pride,