May 8, 2026
This week, we proudly celebrated Teacher Appreciation Week across the Shaler Area School District. It was a meaningful opportunity to recognize the incredible educators who make a lasting impact on our students each and every day. Our teachers inspire curiosity, foster belonging, challenge students to grow, and help prepare them for bright futures. Their dedication, compassion, and commitment to excellence are deeply appreciated and reflect our mission to Engage, Empower, and Excel.
Throughout the week, members of our Executive Leadership Team visited schools across the district to personally thank staff and celebrate the outstanding work taking place in every building. It was wonderful to see the passion, teamwork, and Titan pride that define our schools.
In this week’s Take 5, we’ll also highlight student achievements, special events, and the many positive moments that continue to showcase the strength of our Shaler Area community.
WPIAL Championship Flag Football Team
Congratulations to the Shaler Area Girls Flag Football Team on capturing the inaugural WPIAL Championship with a 34-0 victory over Plum! The Titans completed an undefeated season and advanced to the championship game following a semifinal victory over Mt. Lebanon. This historic achievement marks the first-ever WPIAL Championship in the program’s inaugural season — an extraordinary accomplishment that reflects the hard work, commitment, and perseverance of our students and coaches throughout the year.
Please join me in congratulating our student-athletes for representing Shaler Area with pride, sportsmanship, and excellence both on and off the field.
Shaler Area Elementary School Spring Musical – Shrek Kids: Join us for an evening of music and magic as Shaler Area Elementary School presents its spring musical, Shrek Kids, on Friday, May 15 and Saturday, May 16 at 7:00 p.m. in the SAES auditorium. Tickets will be available at the door, and we invite all members of our school community to come to support our talented performers.
Save the Date: 143 Day of Kindness
Shaler Area School District is excited to announce our 5th Annual: Built on Kindness on Thursday, May 21, 2026, from 5:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at Shaler Area Elementary School. Inspired by Fred Rogers and his meaningful use of “143” to say I Love You, this free, family-friendly event will bring together students, families, staff, and community partners for an evening centered on kindness, connection, and belonging. Guests will enjoy a lively Community Expo featuring organizations that support children and families, live performances by Shaler Area music ensembles, interactive activity stations, refreshments throughout the evening, and a high-energy closing performance by Josh and Gab. More than just an event, 143 Day of Kindness is a celebration of building a culture where kindness is practiced, celebrated, and sustained. We hope you will join us for this special evening celebrating the power of kindness in our community.
Staff Spotlight: Erin Remaley
Erin Remaley has spent 12 years bringing creativity, passion, and a student-centered approach to the Shaler Area School District. As Art Department Chair, she collaborates with colleagues to advance innovative arts programming and works with the Arts Education Collaborative to expand access to meaningful arts experiences for students.
Erin is especially passionate about celebrating student creativity — most recently organizing the April Art Show at Ruckus Cafe, giving students a vibrant community stage to showcase their talent. As a practicing printmaker and watercolorist herself, she brings an artist’s perspective to everything she does, and finds joy in seeing art inspire connection and expression in those around her.
Student Spotlight: Jocelyn Hartz
We are proud to recognize Jocelyn Hartz, a senior at Shaler Area High School, for her outstanding achievement as a national honoree in the Courageous Kids Contest presented by Our Military Kids. Jocelyn was named a 2026 winner in the Air Force Reserve category, an honor that celebrates the resilience, leadership, and perseverance of children from military families. As the daughter of an Air Force Reservist, she has demonstrated a strong commitment to serving her community while navigating the unique challenges associated with military family life.
Her story is a powerful reflection of strength and character, and she serves as an inspiration to others. This national recognition highlights not only Jocelyn’s individual accomplishments but also reflects the values of leadership, service, and resilience we strive to instill in all Shaler Area students
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
Thank you to our families, staff, and community for your continued partnership and support. Together, we are creating learning environments where all students can thrive and truly embody what it means to Engage, Empower, and Excel.
With Titan Pride,
