< Previous30 • Allegheny West Magazine • December 2021/January 2022 West Allegheny High School students continue to set a high bar when it comes to academic success, with grade-specific awards ceremonies held on October 7 to recognize both Early College In High School Academy and Advanced Placement achievement. Over 150 students were invited to attend the ceremonies in person with parents viewing through livestreams. Through the ECIHSA program, the District is proud to partner with the Community College of Allegheny County, Robert Morris University and Pittsburgh Technical College to offer West Allegheny students the unique opportunity to earn college credits and even associate degrees and college certificates while still in high school. Available to students are 15 concurrent or dual enrollment programs with 455 potential credits that will give students a notable jump start on their post-high school plans while saving families significant tuition costs. By the end of the 2020- 2021 school year, one student had earned an associate degree through ECIHSA, six earned college certificates while several others earned multiple college credits. With 23 AP courses offered at West Allegheny, students with passing scores can transfer the credits to most colleges and universities. In AP achievement, five students earned AP Capstone Diplomas, three students earned distinguished Capstone Certificates, 78 students were celebrated as College Board AP Scholars and several were recognized for their passing exam scores. The District anticipates that both the ECIHSA and AP programs will continue to grow over the next year. High school students celebrated for outstanding academic achievement Sophomores and juniors (above) and seniors (below) were celebrated for their involvement in the Early College In High School Academy and for their Advanced Placement achievements. RIGHT: Dr. Jerri Lynn Lippert, superintendent, and Dr. Cheryl McHone, high school principal, present individual awards to students. December 2021/January 2022 • www.awmagazine.com • 3132 • Allegheny West Magazine • December 2021/January 2022 Senior Connor Dalgaard has been named a National Merit Commended Student in recognition of his outstanding academic promise, joining approximately 34,000 Commended Students throughout the nation. They placed among the top students who entered the 2022 competition by taking the Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test (PSAT/NMSQT®). “Commended Students have demonstrated outstanding potential for academic success,” commented a spokesperson for NMSC. “These students represent a valuable national resource; recognizing their accomplishments, as well as the key role their schools play in their academic development, is vital to the advancement of educational excellence in our nation. We hope that this recognition will help broaden their educational opportunities and encourage them as they continue their pursuit of academic success.” Dalgaard named National Merit Commended Student For the third consecutive year, the Pennsylvania Art Education Association (PAEA) has recognized West Allegheny School District for its outstanding commitment to visual arts education with the endorsement of Outstanding Visual Arts Community 2021. Districts receiving this endorsement demonstrate the importance of their visual arts programs with: ● Rigorous and Inclusive Programs: Arts programs demonstrate rigor using standards-based curriculum taught at every level by highly qualified and certified arts educators. ● Highly Accessible Programs: Art programs are offered to all students at every level of education with a sustainable budget for the visual arts. ● Highly Visible Programs: Schools and districts identify their programmatic accomplishments, curriculum for all levels, art staff, mission statements, and arts events using their school websites and social media. The PAEA commended the District for its active role in providing arts education opportunities for its students and receiving the endorsement of Outstanding Visual Arts Community 2021. The recognition is a reflection of the dedication demonstrated by art teachers Brittney Counihan, Sharon Harn, Claire March, Mike Short and Leah Shuck. District proud of arts recognition High school art teacher Leah Shuck was honored with the 2021 Pennsylvania Art Education Association Outstanding Board Member Service Award. She was recognized by fellow board members at the awards ceremony in Philadelphia on October 22. The award recognizes educators who are outstanding leaders in the field of art education for their creative contributions, excellence in professional engagement and dedication to service. For the past few years, Shuck has held the voluntary, elected position of Region 1 co-representative for the PAEA, serving art teachers in Allegheny, Westmoreland, Fayette, Greene, and Washington Counties. Shuck receives honor from statewide peers Art teacher Leah Shuck receives honor from statewide peers Senior Connor Dalgaard receives National Merit Commended Student certificate from high school administrators Samuel Taylor, assistant principal; Dr. Cheryl McHone, principal; and Dr. Katharine Roche, academic principal. December 2021/January 2022 • www.awmagazine.com • 33 The high school guidance office hosted an in-house college fair for current juniors and seniors September 28. With over 80 colleges, universities, trade schools, and branches of the military professionals on hand, students were encouraged to gather information, speak with admissions representatives and inquire about the admissions process, majors, housing, financial aid and athletic programs. For many students, this was an invaluable introduction to collegiate offerings and opportunities in their areas of interest. Students ask questions of admissions representatives. Students explore post- graduation opportunities On October 21, 10 junior and senior students attended the 9th Annual Steel City HBCU College & Transfer Fair presented by The Western PA Council of Historically Black Colleges & Universities (HBCU) Alumni. The event was held at PNC Park and showcased 50 Historically Black Colleges and Universities. Students engaged with admissions counselors and alumni from their choice of institutions and had the opportunity to apply to over 60 HBCUs for free via the Common Black College Application. HBCU admission counselors provided onsite admissions and scholarships for the upcoming spring and fall terms. LEFT: Students had an opportunity to ask questions of university admissions counselors. RIGHT: Guidance counselor Laura Montecalvo (left) and high school principal Dr. Cheryl McHone (right) gather with students during the college fair at PNC Park. Students attend Annual Steel City HBCU College & Transfer Fair The high school hosted an Olympic Day for nearly 80 students with disabilities October 6 through a partnership with the Montour, Moon Area, South Fayette and South Side Area School Districts. The event kicked off with an opening ceremony with the Marching Pride, followed by the National Anthem led by the High School Chorus. The district dance class also performed. Olympic-style events included the 40-yard dash, softball throw, musical plates, soccer kick, and many more. The events were organized by teacher Anthony Castelluci and run by students in the Partners in Education class, NHS students, and student athletes. The day was filled with smiles and camaraderie and concluded with a medal ceremony. Olympic gold comes in the form of laughter and smiles Scooter races proved to be a favorite of the Olympians. There were smiles all around as Tony Castelluci gave out medals during the award ceremony.34 • Allegheny West Magazine • December 2021/January 2022 The high school presented two performances of “The Lion, The Witch, and The Wardrobe” as its fall play October 14 and 16. The dramatization of C.S. Lewis’ classic work faithfully recreated the magic and mystery of Aslan, the great lion, his struggle with the White Witch, and the adventures of four children who inadvertently wander from an old wardrobe into the exciting, never-to-be-forgotten Narnia. This story of love, faith, courage and giving, with its triumph of good over evil, is a true celebration of life. The cast consisted of Anastasia Adams, Julianna Schuler, Jack Campbell, Ayden Freed, Sadie Snatchko, Zoe Pratt, Linnea Barker, Jimmy Walthour, Addie Oberg, Josie Mercier, Emma Bohley, Jena Curran, Annie Costantini, Liam Kilbourn, Eliza Evans, Haley Holbrook, Katie Pottle, Grace Staub, Siena Willson and Elizabeth Yost. Mara and Mike Greer returned as directors, Matt McBurney served as producer and Tom Snyder returned as assistant producer. “The Lion, The Witch, and The Wardrobe” performed Students took to the stage in “The Lion, The Witch, and The Wardrobe.” Nominated by their classmates, the 2021 Homecoming Court included freshmen Chloe Hart and Dante D’Eramo; sophomores Annie Costantini and Shawn Taylor; juniors Logan Balint and Jessica Kiss; and seniors Julia Prologo, Morgan Pichi, Maura Debor, Emily Saggio, Isabella Marsh, Aubrey Page, Logan Cunningham, Joseph Pustover, Devan Zirwas, Logan Pruse, Mason Marchinsky and Austin Buzza. Recognized prior to the October 8 football game, Devan Zirwas was crowned king and Maura Debor was crowned queen. 2021 Homecoming king and queen crowned Terry Kennedy and Bob Zelleznick from the Boy Scouts of America visited with middle and high school students September 24 to conduct rocket launch demonstrations. Despite windy conditions, several successful launches left the students cheering. We have lift off ABOVE: The court comes together for a photo during Homecoming week. RIGHT: Seniors Devan Zirwas and Maura Debor are crowned Homecoming king and queen. ABOVE: Bob Zelleznick provides an explanation of what makes rockets lift off. BELOW: Middle and high school students excitedly provide the launch countdown. December 2021/January 2022 • www.awmagazine.com • 35 Students and staff from all three elementary schools enjoyed celebrating Halloween on October 29 as they donned creative, scary and humorous costumes. In addition to classroom parties, parades were a student favorite as they were live-streamed for those unable to attend in person. More than 2,000 family and friends viewed the parades from across 41 states and 12 countries. Halloween haunts the elementary hallways Students and staff alike went all out when dressing for this year’s Halloween celebration. October 25-29 marked National Red Ribbon Week, and students across the District celebrated this year’s theme of “Drug Free Looks Like Me.” At the elementary level, students took part in the anti-drug awareness program by wearing daily themes such as pajama day, crazy socks, extreme red and more. National Red Ribbon Week celebrated throughout District Wilson students celebrate Red Ribbon Week by wearing extreme red. Donaldson Elementary School students were a little excited when they got to Silly String their principal, Dr. Erin Dierker, on November 4. Dierker donned her rain gear and goggles multiple times throughout the day to allow over 100 students to cover her in the colorful string. The students were rewarded for their fundraising efforts during the PTA’s recent Walk-A-Thon. Dr. Dierker takes dedication to a silly new level Dr. Erin Dierker embraces the Silly String for a good cause.for weekly events , school closings , and delays . V isit W est A llegheny O nline : www . westasd . org B OArd Of s chOOl d irectOrs A dministrAtiOn Mr. Robert Ostrander, President Mrs. Tracy Pustover, Vice-President Mr. George Bartha Mr. Joel Colinear Mr. Edward Faux Mr. Kevin Hancock Mrs. Debbie Mirich Mr. Mark Rosen Mr. Todd Kosenina (Incoming) Dr. Jerri Lynn Lippert, Superintendent Dr. Christopher Shattuck, Assistant Superintendent of Schools Ms. Tammy Adams, Assistant to the Superintendent for Special Education and Student Services Dr. Shana Nelson, Assistant to the Superintendent for Curriculum, Instruction, and Professional Learning Mr. George Safin, Business Manager Dr. Cheryl McHone, High School Principal Dr. Katharine Roche, High School Academic Principal Mr. Samuel Taylor, High School Assistant Principal Mr. David McBain, Director of Athletics Mrs. Patricia Nolan, Middle School Principal Ms. Megan Huchko, Middle School Assistant Principal Dr. Erin Dierker, Donaldson Elementary Principal Mrs. Melissa Wagner, McKee Elementary Principal Mrs. Rachel Gray, Wilson Elementary Principal Mrs. Toni Baldanzi, Supervisor of Ancillary Programs Mr. Kenneth Fibbi, Director of Facilities and Operations Mrs. Karen Ruhl, Community Relations Coordinator W est A llegheny s chOOl d istrict All material has been prepared, written or edited by Karen Ruhl, School Community Relations Coordinator, West Allegheny School District (724) 695-5274 The annual Powder Puff Football Game returned November 4 to much fanfare, goodwill and spirited competition. With 64 seniors and 68 juniors going head to head, the game did not disappoint the players or fans as the seniors pulled out a close 21-18 win. Organized by the National Honor Society, the event raised $3,700 to benefit the family of senior Parker Brown, who is battling leukemia. Students were also encouraged to donate nonperishables for the West Allegheny Food Pantry and nearly 2,000 items were collected. Powder Puff tradition returns The powder puff teams battle for yardage and a good cause. The West Allegheny Food Pantry receives several large boxes of donated food items just in time for Thanksgiving. Following an undefeated regular season, the boys soccer team is, at the time of this writing, looking to return to Hershey for the PIAA championship game. The team advanced through WPIAL play but suffered a difficult 1-0 loss to Hampton High School in the championship. Their hunt continued however, as they advanced to the first round of the PIAA playoffs as the WPIAL runner-up and handily defeated Bradford 10-0. Taking on Archbishop Ryan in the quarterfinal game, the Indians came out on top with a 3-0 shutout. At the time of this writing, West Allegheny is set to face Hampton again in the semi-final round on November 16, with the winner moving on to Hershey. Boys soccer on the hunt for state title The boys soccer team claims the WPIAL Runner Up title on their hunt for the state championship. 36 • Allegheny West Magazine • December 2021/January 2022NOW HIRING! O ces located in Robinson Twp. & Monaca 412.494.2000 ExpressPros.com Full-time and part-time job opportunities in a variety of positions: Administrative, Professional, Industrial, Skilled Labor, Skilled Trades, and Skilled Professional. Call to schedule your interview! No Fees! December 2021/January 2022 • www.awmagazine.com • 37Christmas Light-Up Celebration Clinton Park Through Jan. 2 | 5-10 p.m. nightly Stop out any night during the holiday season between 5-10 p.m. for a scenic drive through Clinton Community Park’s woodlands section. The area will be decked out with hundreds of lighted decorations in a variety of themes appropriate for the season. The $10 entry fee per car is payable in cash at the gate and benefits a variety of needs in the community. Local organizations, businesses and residents also sponsor a Christmas tree display at the end. The entrance to the light-up is located along Route 30 in Clinton, not far from the Clinton Exit off I-376. The light-up celebrates its 27th year this season. Clinton residents Patty and Lloyd Faux have been organizing the effort each year and get help from volunteers who generously donate their time starting in September to get the light-up prepared. For more, follow the Christmas Light Up on Facebook: @ChristmasLightUpCelebration. Local Light-Ups The Christmas Light-Up in Clinton Park is a drive-through display following a one-mile route. Laser Light Shows North Park Dec. 1-22 | Multiple times nightly Celebrate the holidays with this one-of-a-kind drive-in laser show at North Park. You’ll be dazzled by a 45-minute show synchronized with holiday music - all from the comfort of your own vehicle. Multiple sessions take place every night. Tickets are $20 to $25 per vehicle and must be purchased in advance. Proceeds benefit the Kane Foundation. Purchase tickets at alleghenycounty.us/ lasershow. North Fayette Tree Lighting Donaldson Park Dec. 3 | 6:30 p.m. Swing by Donaldson Park for this special outdoor tree lighting event. There will be holiday music, some light refreshments and a visit from Santa. Attendance will be limited and masking is required. The community center also will not be open so be sure to dress for the weather. For more, visit www.north-fayette.com/335/Parks- Recreation. Collier Township Light Up Night Collier Community Center Dec. 3 | 6-8 p.m. Learn how other countries celebrate Christmas, light refreshments and crafts, free, all ages, (724) 693-0780. Robinson’s Christmas Light Up Clever Park Dec. 3 | 6:30 p.m. Fireworks, Santa and Mrs. Claus letters to Santa, townshipofrobinson.com. Moon Lights Holiday Festival Moon Park Dec. 4 | 5-7:30 p.m. Performances by local dancers and musicians, food trucks, craft vendors, games, Santa arrives 5:30 p.m., photos and visits with Santa, bring letters to Santa, www.moonparks.org. More Area Light Ups! All events subject to change. Check the contact information listed for the latest details. Please follow all CDC guidelines regarding COVID-19 when attending any event. What to do in and around the area this holiday season Holiday Happenings Guide 38 • Allegheny West Magazine • December 2021/January 2022December 2021/January 2022 • www.awmagazine.com • 39Next >