October 16, 2026
Dear Shaler Area Families,
As we move through the school year, it has been exciting to see so many families coming together at our fall school and community events. These opportunities remind us of the strong connections that make Shaler Area such a special community. We continue to celebrate the accomplishments of our students and staff while recognizing the meaningful experiences taking place across our schools. This week has been filled with notable achievements, engaging learning opportunities, and moments that highlight the dedication and commitment of our entire school community. Here’s a look at some key highlights from the past week.
Student Spotlight: Teagan Orga
Congratulations to Teagan Orga, who made Shaler Area history this season by reaching 1,000 career digs and setting a new school record! Every dig sets the stage for a teammate to succeed, and Teagan’s accomplishment speaks to the determination, focus, and team-first spirit that make her such a valued member of our volleyball program. Milestones like this are built through countless hours of practice and a steady drive to keep improving. We are so proud of you, Teagan!
Staff Spotlight: Bethany Morrow and Riley Diffenderfer
Our deepest thanks to Mrs. Bethany Morrow and Ms. Riley Diffenderfer, Scott Primary School’s English Language Development (ELD) teachers! Their dedication helps students build the language skills and confidence they need to succeed in the classroom, build friendships, and feel connected to their school community. Through their encouragement and support, students are finding their voices, discovering their strengths, and learning that they belong. We are grateful for the important role they play in helping Scott students learn, grow, and shine!
Niche Rankings for Shaler Area Primary Schools
Congratulations to Marzolf Primary School and Reserve Primary School on being recognized among the top Niche Standout Elementary Schools in the Pittsburgh Area, with Reserve ranked #2 and Marzolf ranked #3. Having two Shaler Area schools among the top three in the Pittsburgh region is a significant recognition of the work taking place in our classrooms and school communities.
The District’s other two primary schools also received strong marks from Niche. Burchfield Primary School earned an A- overall grade and is ranked #273 out of 1,612 public elementary schools in Pennsylvania, placing it approximately in the top 17% statewide. Scott Primary School also earned an A- overall grade and is ranked #291 out of 1,612 public elementary schools in Pennsylvania, placing it approximately in the top 18% statewide.
These results reflect the collective efforts of our teachers, support staff, administrators, students, and families and provide another indicator of the strong foundation being built for our youngest Titans.
Shaler Area Education Foundation to host 5K & Fun Walk
The Shaler Area Education Foundation will host its Halloween 5K & Fun Walk on Sunday, October 25, at Kiwanis Park. This community event will provide another opportunity to bring together Shaler Area students, families, staff, and community members while supporting the work of the Education Foundation.
The event will include a timed 5K and Fun Walk, with costumes encouraged. Registration is $25 for the 5K through October 15 and $30 thereafter, while the Fun Walk is $10. Participants who register for the 5K by October 15 will receive an event T-shirt, and Fun Walk participants will receive a festive bandana.
Online registration will remain open through October 23, with race-day registration beginning at 8:00 a.m.
Family Engagement Night – Family Math Night
Shaler Area families are invited to join us for a fun, hands-on Family Math Night on Tuesday, October 27, from 6:00–7:30 p.m. at Marzolf Primary School. Designed for families with students in grades K–4, the evening will feature engaging activities and games with Imagine Learning that help build math skills, number sense, and confidence while showing families simple ways to make math part of everyday life. Families will also receive strategies and resources to continue supporting math learning at home. We hope you’ll join us for an enjoyable evening of learning together! Register here: bit.ly/4vhhxp3.
With Titan Pride,
