October 23, 2026
Dear Shaler Area Families,
As another productive week comes to a close and the sights and sounds of fall begin to settle in, I’m pleased to share some of the exciting updates and highlights from across Shaler Area. This week has provided opportunities to celebrate student achievements, recognize the dedication of our staff, and showcase the meaningful learning experiences taking place in our classrooms and beyond. Each of these moments reflects our continued commitment to academic excellence, student growth, and preparing our students for success in school and beyond. Together, we continue to Engage, Empower, and Excel as one Shaler Area community.
Here are just a few highlights from the week:
Student Spotlight: Peter Laing
Peter is an avid learner of nearly every topic, with a particular interest in technological fields. He recently earned his amateur radio license and built his own AM antennae. Peter has taken an important leadership role in the What’s So Cool About Manufacturing film production competition. Peter is the team’s video editor and secondary camera operator, and he has stepped up to organize team meetings, assisted in shopping for important technical items, and is developing ‘user manuals’ for each of the pieces of equipment for this year’s rookies and future WSCAM participants to use. Peter is a true Shaler Area Middle School asset.
Staff Spotlight: Marti Beer
Martha “Marti” Beer is truly a ray of sunshine who has dedicated 30 years to the Shaler Area and Marzolf communities! Through her outstanding instruction and support, she helps our youngest learners develop the expressive and receptive language skills they need to communicate, understand, and grow as learners. Marti is the ultimate team player, always willing to lend a hand, including helping with morning car arrival, and doing whatever it takes to make Marzolf a standout school. There may be many positive and supportive people in this world, but few can match Marti’s genuine care and unwavering commitment to our students, staff, families, and community!
SAMS to Host Veterans Day Breakfast
Mark your calendars for Shaler Area Middle School’s Veterans Day breakfast, coming November 4th, 2026, from 8–10a.m. The annual event is a cherished opportunity for students to honor past and current members of the armed services while learning from their wisdom and experience. Many veterans attend each year, fostering friendships and valuable community connections.
Service members can R.S.V.P. to Becky Coyne in the main office at 412-492-1200 x2500.
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!
With Titan Pride,
