Reflections on a Year of Progress and Growth
a s s uperinten D ent , i a M C ontinually inspire D by the work taking place across our district—work that reflects both innovation and a deep commitment to our students . We have intentionally embraced forward-thinking instructional practices that move beyond traditional models, creating learning environments where students are actively engaged as problem-solvers, collaborators, and leaders of their own learning . Through the integration of technology, personalized learning opportunities, and real-world experiences, our classrooms are evolving to better prepare students for success in an ever-changing world .
Equally important to this progress is the strength of our partnerships The collaboration among our educators, staff, families, and community partners has been instrumental in driving meaningful change Together, we are building a culture grounded in trust, shared responsibility, and a collective belief in the potential of every child . This unified approach ensures that we are not only meeting the academic needs of our students, but also fostering environments where they feel supported, valued, and empowered .
What makes me most proud, however, is our students . Their growth is evident not only in their academic achievement, but also in their development as confident, compassionate, and resilient individuals We are seeing students take ownership of their learning, demonstrate empathy toward others, and build the social and emotional skills necessary to navigate both challenges and opportunities These are the qualities that will serve them well beyond our classrooms .
The work we are doing is making a difference, and it is a direct reflection of the dedication, collaboration, and innovation that define our district . I am honored to serve a community so deeply committed to the success and well-being of every student .
D r . s ue M ariani
Dukes Showcase
Thank you to everyone who showed up for our Dukes Showcase on May 26! It was a fun time showcasing our students’ work, bringing our school and surrounding community together, and sharing resources that benefit the Duquesne community The Dukes Showcase is a yearly event, highlighted by a resource fair and tables that spotlight a project or activity at each grade level Among a number of stations, students showcased a lemonade stand, homemade hoop gliders, plants, Duquesne housing research, and much more!
Duquesne City celebrates the Class of 2026 during 8th Grade Promotion
aS StudentS walked acroSS the Stage — one by one accepting their diplomas and shaking their 8th grade teachers’ hands — the end of their journeys at Duquesne City came to a ceremonious end .
On June 10, the district celebrated its 8th grade students’ promotion to high school It was a joyous and emotional day, as students and staff reminisced on the growth of the class of 2026 This class of 39 students was a remarkably talented and resilient one that progressed tremendously throughout their years of schooling in the district
“Today is a special milestone as we gather to celebrate the accomplishments and growth of our 8th grade students,” said principal Erica Slobodnik .
“Throughout your years at Duquesne, you have grown academically, socially, and emotionally And today, we celebrate that growth ”
Graduating students Aarionna Manker, Nazifa Temori, and Hamzeh Alsholi led the proceedings as the masters and mistresses of ceremony . Noble Watson gave the farewell speech, before students celebrated with their families .
“No matter where we go or what we become, remember one thing: ‘Once a Duke, always a Duke,’” said Watson .
Along the way of the ceremony, a number of students were recognized for their growth, achievement, and service at Duquesne City Mrs Stowell recognized Lego League students, Mrs Shively recognized band students, Ms Means honored her Leaders in Trainings, and Ms Thomas recognized her Pittsburgh Area Community School student leaders
Additionally, Ms . Pat Bluett presented the Rosemary Denne Award to three students — voted on by the Middle School teachers’’— who embodied model citizenship in the community, while Ms Marissa Redding and Mrs Tiffanee Heywood recognized students for their work in conjunction with the Boys & Girls Club and the Youth Works Hire Me Program .
Thank you to our wonderful and hardworking 8th grade teaching and support staff for helping lead these students through their final school year at Duquesne City Additionally, special thanks to our entire staff for their work in guiding these students, helping them grow year after year into the impressive students that they’ve become . Congratulations, class of 2026! You’re going to do great things in high school and beyond!
Duquesne City celebrates the promotion of its kindergarten students
On June 9, the district held its Kindergarten Promotion, a joyous event celebrating our youngest learners’ completion of kindergarten
Joined by a large crowd of families and friends, students performed three songs — ‘Clapping ABCs’, ‘Count by 10s’, and ‘On My Way’ — before accepting their diplomas
Thank you to Ms Scherrer, Ms Harnish, Ms Steiner, Ms Heasley, Mr Domer, and the rest of our wonderful staff, who have helped shepherd these students through this foundational year In just a year, we’ve seen these students grow so much — inside and outside the classroom — gaining fundamental knowledge and social skills Congratulations, Kindergartners! You’re going to do great in 1st grade!
Duquesne highlights Black History Month during yearly celebration
On February 24, the Duquesne City School District held its annual Black History Month celebration, a culturally-rich event filled with dancing, music, and student performances On the night, students skillfully performed a play titled, ‘Black History Heroes: Then & Now’, highlighting significant black historical figures of the past and present Additionally, the Zeta Phi Beta and Sigma Gamma Rho sororities performed some dances and chants, a student performed a reading of a poem, and the Boys and Club Dance Team brought the energy with some fun performances .
Further, the PGH SK8 Collaborative, a nonprofit dedicated to developing accessible rollerskating, educated the audience about the ties between roller-skating and the black community before performing some skating and dancing . A video made by the school’s Student Tech Team, as well as a video highlighting K-2 students’ perspectives on black history were also displayed . Special thanks to all of the students, staff, and volunteers who made this event a rousing, fun-filled success!
Students get IT training in VILS Technology Team
The district’s student technology team is available to grade 5–8 students.
every Friday morning, Chuck Robinson meets with his student technology team and gets to work One student might be fixing an iPad case or ensuring that their classmate’s technology is functioning properly Another time, Robinson could be conducting an in-depth lesson about device hardware and the principles behind it, such as what a MAC address is and how to decipher one
In a world increasingly steeped in technology, Robinson seeks to empower his team to understand technology on a deeper level, and to gain important skills along the way
“I know that the younger generation have a better grasp of technology, as they are surrounded by it every day,” said Robinson, the district’s Director of Information Technology and Truancy Services
“Learning how things work—not just the hardware but the software and logic behind it all—and getting some hands-on experience will give them discipline into tackling any projects at home, responsible and safe repairs of devices, and a better understanding of how things work, not just ‘it works when I press this button ’”
The district’s student technology team—which is available to grade 5-8 students— is in its second year at Duquesne City Headed by Robinson and Verizon Innovative Learning School Instructional Coach, Michelle Stowell, the team emerged as part of the district’s Verizon Innovative Learning (VILS) partnership with Verizon and Digital Promise
In partnership with Digital Promise, the Verizon Innovative Learning Schools program works side-by-side with schools and districts to provide free technology devices, access to the internet, and innovative STEM learning programs . At Duquesne, each student has their own device
“I have noticed a positive reaction from the students in the Student Tech Team . They are taking it nicely, and in fact, I believe I’m going too slow for them,” said Robinson “They definitely have a high understanding of technology and are very eager to learn . ”
The technology team follows a franchise model, where students promote their services as a ‘business’ to their classmates . Thus far, the team has worked on device checks and case repairs, ensuring each student has their iPad and charger and that it is free of damage .
On the horizon, the group will discuss how devices are centrally managed, how the iPad operates on an educational/school network, and what the core components of an iPad are, while tying that into screen repairs Additionally, the group will take apart iPads and see what’s inside, and then try to swap screens out to do screen repairs .
Along the way, students are running their work like a business, keeping track of which iPads they repair, what types of repairs were performed, when the repair was performed, and logging how much money they would’ve made off of each repair, while also factoring in basic business expenses, from paying employees and rent, to insurance and taxes
“Understanding basics could get the students aligned with technology, engineering, or even business administration careers in the future,” said Robinson
Beyond specific skills, Robinson hopes to give students perspective on technology, while teaching the value of patience and processes Those skills and traits, Robinson harps, are transferable to all facets of life
“I want them to understand that there is a lot more behind technology than pressing buttons Everything works for a reason, and a combination of hardware and software is that reason,” said Robinson “More than just an understanding, I want them to learn the proper ways of doing something, and if something doesn’t work, generally it can be repaired ”
Beyond
specific skills, Robinson hopes to give students perspective on technology, while teaching the value of patience and processes.
Band Program
The Duquesne City School District built upon its band program in the 2025-26 school year, performing multiple concerts for the first time since rebooting the program On December 17, the district held its Holiday Band Concert . On the night, students skillfully performed a number of holiday-themed songs
Students followed that up with another concert on May 20 . Band members adeptly performed a collection of songs, rotating between solo and collaborative pieces Songs performed included ‘7 Nation Army’, ‘Lightly Row’, ‘First Concert Overture’, ‘Itsy Bitsy Spider’, ‘We Will Rock You’, ‘When The Saints Go Marching In’, and ‘Let’s Go Band’.
Special thanks to band director Rachel Shively, along with our students and staff for their hard work in preparing for both concerts Great job, everyone! You made the district proud!
Duquesne City School District recognized as Child Hunger Hero silver award winner
the DistriC t was reCognizeD this school year as one of the Greater Pittsburgh Community Food Bank’s Child Hunger Hero silver award winners
The Child Hunger Hero award program recognizes school districts and community partners making outstanding contributions to food security for kids Among other programs, the Food Bank highlighted the district’s free breakfast and lunch, Summer feeding program, and food pantry, which is organized by Pittsburgh Area Community Schools
Thank you to our food service staff and Pittsburgh Area Community Schools for their outstanding work in providing for our students and community!
Duquesne honors student athletes during athletics banquet
On April 22, the Duquesne City School District held a banquet and awards ceremony to celebrate its student athletes . Teams honored include football, boys and girls basketball, volleyball, and cheerleading
“I’m proud of you all,” said athletic director DiAngelo Mitchell . “Thank you to the coaches, as well I appreciate you all for everything you do to hold the kids accountable ” Further, coaches voted on and announced award winners Award winners include as follows:
Football MVP: Elijah Maloy
8th Grade Basketball MVP: Christian Blair
7th Grade Basketball MVP: Terrance Whittle
8th Grade Girls Basketball MVP: Catalina Gardner
7th grade Girls Basketball MVP: Bella Huff
Cheerleading MVP: Shyla Marshall
Volleyball MVP: Raihana Khawas
Boys Student Athlete of the Year: Elijah Maloy
Girl Student Athlete of the Year: Raihana Khawas
DeWayne Tucker Student Athlete Award: Saeon Coleman Jr.
Duquesne City dedicates gym to DeWayne Tucker
On May 27, the district honored a legend . Joined by the whole school community, school board members, and Mr DeWayne Tucker's family, the district honored Mr Tucker's legacy, renaming the Duquesne City School District gym after him
The gym, which hosts the Duquesne City students that Mr . Tucker was so fiercely dedicated to, is now named the DeWayne Tucker Gymnasium
Mr . Tucker passed away on April 14, 2026 . Among Mr . Tucker's many attributes, he was a 1959 Alumni of Duquesne High School, a retired City of Duquesne Police Officer and served on the Duquesne City School District elected School Board for 39 years—many of which he proudly led as Board President He also started the DeWayne Tucker Athletic and Academic Excellence Award, given to a student athlete who embodies excellence in their sport and in the classroom Mr . Tucker brought wisdom, dedication, and a unique passion to the district . His contributions left an indelible mark
“For 39 years, Mr . Tucker dedicated himself to this school district, to this city, and most importantly, to the students who walk these halls each day His commitment was not simply measured in years, but in the countless decisions he made with students at the center, the unwavering support he provided to staff, and the deep pride he carried for this community," said Duquesne City School District superintendent Dr . Sue Mariani .
“A name on a building is more than a tribute—it is a reminder . A reminder of service, of commitment, and of the responsibility we all share to continue the work that has been entrusted to us For our students, when you walk into this gymnasium, know that you are stepping into a space named after someone who believed in you—someone who believed in your potential, your future, and your ability to achieve great things . For our staff, may this serve as a continued call to the purpose that drives our work each day And to Mr . Tucker's family, please know that his legacy lives on not only in this space, but in every student who is given an opportunity, in every success that unfolds, and in every life that is positively impacted because of his vision and dedication ”
Dr Mariani shared heartfelt remarks during the ceremony, along with Athletics and Student Activities Manager DiAngelo Mitchell, School Board President Sonya Gooden, and Mr . Tucker's grandchildren, Aubrey and Sydney Tucker . Mr . Tucker's wife, Maureen Tucker, cut a large ribbon, signifying the renaming of the gymnasium, before students erupted in 'Let's go Dukes' chants
"If you know Mr Tucker, you know he was a special person in this community," said Mitchell
"On behalf of our family, I want to begin by saying 'thank you'. This community gave him his purpose, his fire," said Aubrey Tucker . "My grandfather believed fiercely that a community is only as strong as the people within it that fight for it Children who needed advocates, he was that person for them every single time . To have this gymnasium dedicated to him, I know he would be so proud and say, 'this is all for you "
A name on a building is more than a tribute— it is a reminder. A reminder of service, of commitment, and of the responsibility we all share to continue the work that has been entrusted to us.
All Kids Bike & Bayer donate 24 bikes to Duquesne City Kindergarten students
K in D ergarten stu D ents C heere D as representatives from All Kids Bike and Bayer removed a colorful parachute to reveal a fleet of 24 bikes
On March 30, a surprise months in the making was revealed Thanks to a partnership between All Kids Bike and Bayer, the district received the generous bike donation, which will help our youngest learners learn important motor skills that will be sure to provide them plenty of activity and fun in the future
The district’s Physical Education teacher, Kevin Madden, along with Principal, Erica Slobodnik, helped write, apply for, and facilitate a grant for the All Kids Bike program .
“This surprise is going to help you explore roads and outdoor spaces in our community in the future — so you can stay healthy, active, and continue enjoying time with your friends,” said Mrs . Slobodnik .
“Our guests from Bayer do amazing work to support communities and schools just like ours, and we are truly grateful ”
The All Kids Bike Kindergarten PE Learn-to-Ride Program, launched in 2018, was created to ensure every child in America has the chance to learn how to ride a bike at school . This comprehensive, program provides schools everything needed for success, including teacher training and certification, an eight-lesson curriculum with detailed plans, games, and activities, a set of 24 Strider balance-to-pedal bikes with pedal conversion kits, fully adjustable helmets for students, an instructor bike with its own pedal conversion kit and helmet, two rolling storage racks, and ongoing access to a resource portal with live support—equipping educators with all the tools necessary to teach students how to ride confidently
Duke Decoders compete in FIRST LEGO League regional competition
sinCe establishing a First lego league prograM several years ago, interest in joining the team — the Duke Decoders — has grown each year
This season, the construction of the team necessitated splitting the students into two squads: Duke Decoders red and white . Plus, the teams featured some students in 5th grade, a change from previous teams that have typically fielded only 6th-8th grade students
“We’ve had students eagerly tell us that they want to join lego league all year,” said Michelle Stowell, who coaches the team, along with Brian Stowell .
“Because they are younger and starting in 5th grade, we get to have them for four years To see them grow over the next few years will be really cool ”
FIRST LEGO League, a STEM-oriented competition involving legos, robotics, coding, and critical thinking, is judged based on four components: robot game, robot design, core values, and innovation project .
Duquesne City’s two teams competed in the Southwest PA FIRST LEGO League Grand Championship at Aliquippa High School on December 13 . While neither of the teams advanced to the state championships—as they did last year—Mrs . Stowell was proud of the students’ efforts
“Both teams scored the highest they have all season in the robot game . At the beginning of November we went to Upper St Clair for a competitive scrimmage There were like 23 teams there and we ranked in the top seven,” said Mrs Stowell
“But since then, our one team doubled their score at regionals and our other team got like 50 above their score . Those little hurdles are huge accomplishments for them ”
Each season, the theme for FIRST LEGO League changes This season, the theme was ‘Unearthed’, tasking students with developing solutions to help archaeologists . To prepare for this theme, students traveled to the Meadowcroft Rockshelter and Historic Village, a live dig site in Avella, PA
From the experience, students learned that archaeologists often struggle to find proper footwear, having to consider the balance between wearing a shoe that gives them support against falling rocks, but doesn’t leave footprints on the natural ground Archaeologists even sometimes just wear socks wrapped in duct tape
As such, the Duke Decoders developed an ‘excavation shoe’ for their innovation project, tearing apart a student’s boot in the process for research to determine exactly what their shoe would need to fit an archaeologist’s needs . The red Duke Decoders team got a callback from the judges for their excavation shoe
“They tore apart a boot to find out all of the different layers and they created one just for archaeologists,” said Mrs . Stowell . “During callbacks, our students wore socks with duct tape wrapped around them They showed the judges what they learned They kind of told the story about what they learned ”
Duquesne City hosts the NFL Foundation for a day focused on nutrition and mental and physical health
As part of the kickoff of the NFL FLAGIn-School PLAY 60 Champions, students participated in the NFL FLAG-In-School skills and drills clinic.
Photos: The NFL
On April 21, The NFL Foundation hosted an afternoon of activities at the Duquesne City School District designed to support students in being wellnourished, mentally strong, and physically active .
Through GENYOUth’s Super Schools initiative with former Steeler quarterback Charlie Batch, the district received one of 91 grants distributed to Pennsylvania schools that will help increase access to 13 million school meals and empower play opportunities for 50,000 students Among other items, the district received mobile meal service equipment including rolling carts, insulated bags, bins, and branded display elements that allow staff to set up a high-impact, grab-and-go breakfast station right as students enter the building The equipment is designed to keep items fresh, organized, and easy to distribute, while also creating a more engaging and visible experience for students
“As the superintendent here, I truly believe every student can succeed in life . Here at Duquesne, we’re a strong believer of nutrition and physical activity . We’re honored to be a part of this incredible initiative,” said Duquesne City superintendent Dr . Sue Mariani .
“One in five children in Southwestern Pennsylvania faces food insecurity, and fewer than one in four children nationwide get the recommended 60 minutes of daily physical activity,” added GENYOUth CEO Ann Marie Krautheim .
“Schools can help close that gap . Our mission is simple yet vital: to ensure children learn, grow, and thrive . I’m deeply grateful to our purpose- driven partners whose commitment is helping us create healthier futures for students ”
Batch was joined by former Steeler Arthur Moats, NFL Vice President of Wellness and Clinical Services Dr Nyaka NiiLampti, and Steelers Vice President of Business Development & Strategy Dan Rooney, among others
“As a professional athlete, it’s important to do your best on the field, but it’s just as important to fuel yourselves off the field,” said Batch “I once sat in your seat with a dream It starts with not just what you’re doing on the field, but in the classroom . ”
Beyond the Super Schools initiative, the Character Playbook Speaker Series, funded by the NFL Foundation, brought together panelists Like Moats and NiiLampti, along with Middle School students Christian Blair and Shania Mervis, for a nationally live-streamed panel discussion on the importance of fueling both mind and body After the panel discussion, students participated in breakout sessions, participating in activities to further the discussion around mental and physical health .
“There’s a strong connection between mental and physical health,” said Dr . NiiLampti . “You cannot perform at your peak physically if you’re not strong mentally And if you’re physically active, there is a positive connection to mental growth You cannot have one without the other . ”
Afterwards, the NFL Foundation kicked off the NFL FLAG-In-School PLAY 60 Champions, a national initiative and movement that will help students to be active throughout the school day and beyond As part of the kickoff, students participated in the NFL FLAGIn-School skills and drills clinic
Thank you to the NFL Foundation, the Steelers, GENYOUth, and many others for supporting our students, and organizing this impactful and fun day
“ There’s a strong connection between mental and physical health.You cannot perform at your peak physically if you’re not strong mentally. And if you’re physically active, there is a positive connection to mental growth.You cannot have one without the other.”
Dr. Nyaka NiiLampti
Spotlighting the district’s Middle School Clubs
this sChool year, the district added 1st period clubs for 7th & 8th grade students . The clubs allowed students to choose from a wide variety of options — depending on what interests them — while also working in smaller group settings Check out some spotlights on a few of the clubs
Team Sports
For Feras Jiham, playing soccer is the perfect way for him to start the day
“It gets me energized and ready to go for the rest of the day,” said Jiham, an 8th grade student “It’s my favorite sport ”
Jiham is one of several students participating in the district Team Sports club, a collaboration between Mr Madden and Mr Uram Students use collaboration, communication, and empathy to explore a number of different sports
Using sports as a vehicle to explore these concepts can be effective, Mr . Madden said It’s also just a great way for students to begin their day, jumpstarting their minds and bodies with physical activity .
“This is a great way for them to start the day This has been a pleasant surprise . The students enjoy it . Me and Mr . Uram collaborate together and we thoroughly enjoy it,” said Madden, the district’s gym teacher
“It’s a natural caffeine . It’s how you get your body moving . If you wake up and drag yourself into work or class, you might be tired for the whole day This way, they’re waking up immediately at 9:00 a .m so that they’re ready for class at 9:30 a m . ”
While students are largely exploring soccer in quarter one, Madden said the primary sport that they explore will change from quarter to quarter, depending on student interest
“There’s a large group of students that are interested in soccer,” said Madden . “It’s based on what the students like If the students wanted to play basketball or another sport, they could do that It just has to be a team sport . ”
Art & Graphic Novels
As an artistically-inclined person herself, Brittany Gilpin understands the creative and emotional value that art can hold for some students .
In Ms Gilpin’s Art & Graphic Novels club, she hopes to provide that outlet for students “For students who do a lot of drawing and artwork out of school, coming up here and having that opportunity to work on that sort of stuff is a really nice way to start the day,” said Ms Gilpin, the district’s Art teacher
“It allows them to decompress . Sometimes when they come in, they’re upset . This gives them a space to vent with a small group and put that energy into artwork ”
Students have the opportunity to work on whatever they’d like in the art and graphic novel realm Some students, for example, are working on designing artwork on ceiling tiles Others might do storyboarding and work on their own graphic novels
Band
For Rachel Shively, teaching music isn’t just her job, but her lifelong passion When she talks about music — and passing on that love to others — she oozes with enthusiasm
This year, Ms Shively — the district’s music teacher — is heading the district’s band club . “I think it’s a wonderful way to start the day,” said Ms . Shively “It’s also a wonderful way to end the day . ”
Ms . Shively, now in her 4th year with the district, has always taught the school’s band students, and is shepherding them as they’ve moved to a club model this school year Her students are progressing nicely, she said
“It is a smaller class and I’m able to give them more one-on-one time . I play all sorts of different instruments so that they have a good model,” said Ms . Shively . “They’re all good kids, and I really enjoy working with them ”
With the exception of two 7th graders, Ms . Shively said her students are all advanced band students that she worked with last school year In the 2nd marking period, Ms Shively will begin working with 6th graders, as well
“They’re coming along very nicely first thing in the morning . The more advanced kids are very good at helping the beginners,” said Ms Shively “Right now I’m pushing them as hard as I can so we can get them as far as we can before the 6th graders start . ”
While Ms Shively hopes to foster a love for band in her students – and push their progress as much as she can — her goals also lie in the future, as she hopes to grow lifelong lovers of music, and more immediately, excellent high school band members
“I think these kids deserve to go to high school and hook into their band program and benefit from that,” said Ms Shively “By playing in a band here, hopefully that will give them the ability to thrive in high school ”
“I have students that as soon as they’re done with one thing, they’re excited to move onto another and another, and go bigger and bigger,” said Ms . Gilpin
“They like it a lot . They’re able to pace themselves however they’d like to . Instead of being paced like a traditional classroom, I let the kids work on whatever they can get done in the timespan that’s relevant for the class . ”
Parent Engagement Events
From a vibrant and diverse Cultural Night, to educationally rich Literacy and STEM nights, the district engaged with families through a number of after-school events throughout the year
Check out recaps and pictures from those events below
Literacy Night
On October 22, students moved through various literacy-focused stations Among other activities, students were tasked with designing a book cover, writing a creative story, constructing a poem, and drawing a story setting There were also a plethora of books on hand for students to take home We appreciate the efforts of our staff for making this event possible!
Cultural Night
On November 20 students and families moved through various stations, completing activities and being informed about a number of different countries and cultures There was food on hand representing various
STEM Night
On March 25, students moved through a wide variety of STEM-oriented activities, applying their knowledge and having plenty of fun along the way . We appreciate Pittsburgh Area Community Schools for their always wonderful partnership and collaboration in making this event happen, as well as the many staff who made this event possible! countries, along with Pittsburgh Area Community Schools, who distributed turkeys to families in advance of Thanksgiving It was a fun, educational night highlighting all of the diverse cultures throughout the district building and the world at large!
Duquesne Virtual Academy offers flexible learning for students
the worlD is Changing, and naturally, students are too For a variety of reasons, students might seek a more flexible learning environment .
The Duquesne Virtual Academy offers an alternative to traditional, in-person instruction Led by certified teachers from Duquesne and the Allegheny Intermediate Unit (AIU), The Duquesne Virtual Academy is an asynchronous program that allows working families the opportunity to receive a quality education without compromising to the demands of their busy lives
The Virtual Academy is available for all students and meets all of Pennsylvania’s Core Standards . Students are provided devices through the district, ensuring each student has what they need
“Education is ever-changing This generation is very technologically driven Cyber school in general is on the rise,” said Caitlin Ohm, the Virtual Academy instructor “More people are interested in that versatile education, being able to take their education to wherever they’ll be for the day and fitting it in their daily life It’s different for everybody . I think that’s the key component, that it’s flexible to meet their needs . ”
Ohm is in her 5th year as an instructor for the program . Ohm—in conjunction with Duquesne City School District and Virtual Academy principal Erica Slobodnik— heads the program The program is offered through the AIU’s Accelerate Education learning management system .
Most learning in the program is done through videos, modules, practice work, and assessments—all done in creative, engaging ways “Some of our students like this because it allows them to have their busy lives while fitting in schoolwork in a way that makes sense for them It allows them to work in the evenings if they need that parent support at home,” said Ohm . “It’s about being able to do things that are in your most comfortable environment . ”
Ohm conducts regular check-ins with students and parents, checking in on how students are feeling and how their education is going With parents, Ohm provides crucial, detailed updates . Ohm offers regular office hours each day, where students and parents can check in In these moments, Ohm can provide direct instruction and assist as needed
“We work on being goal-oriented, whether it’s an educational goal or a personal goal,” said Ohm . “We also dive into their educational piece and see where they are in their courses and if they have anything to do If they are behind on an assignment, we work to see how we can complete it and if they have any questions ”
Building strong relationships with students and families is key, Ohm said . To that point, Ohm is easily accessible and solutions-oriented With each interaction, Ohm is an active listener, always looking to see how she can best cater to her students’ learning needs
“Having that collaboration, rapport, and relationship with our families is key We really do rely on them to help manage their schedules,” said Ohm
“About 90 percent of the time there is a parent at home during the check-in that gets on screen I’m there on demand to answer any questions I can help them right there instead of a more complicated back-and-forth . That’s a big benefit ”
Most learning in the program is done through videos, modules, practice work, and assessments—all done in creative, engaging ways.
Spotlighting PACS: Community supports in the Duquesne City School District building
As the Pittsburgh Area Community Schools (PACS) Site Manager at Duquesne, Alexis Thomas is tasked with a number of duties Thomas, though, explains her job quite simply: to help students and families in any way possible .
“I’m here to be that bridge between the school and the community or the parents and the school I’m there to get them whatever they need,” said Thomas “I tell parents literally just reach out if you need anything and we’ll figure it out ”
Thomas is in her 3rd year working with PACS and Duquesne She’s supported by two Resource Specialists, Tonya Washington and Cherakee Hicks . PACS’ initiative, according to their website, is to “improve student outcomes, increase parent and community engagement, provide active and coordinated resources, and more . ”
That work revolves around four pillars, Thomas said: integrated student supports, expanded and enriched learning time opportunities, active community and family engagement, and collaborative leadership . “I do a little of everything,” said Thomas .
Among primary initiatives, PACS runs a food pantry and clothing and hygiene closet in the school, both of which are accessible to anybody in the community, along with resource specialists that act as case managers for students and families, ensuring they receive the resources and support they need
PACS also organizes a number of parent and family engagement events in conjunction with other community organizations, like trunk or treat with the Duquesne Family Center, the back to school carnival, or future holiday events with Katie Cares Further, PACS has held regular meetings with parents and district leaders to discuss key topics, as it relates to school and life outside of school
Thomas said she’s always worked in social work and human services Now that she’s entrenched at Duquesne, she believes she’s found her home . “Now that I’ve been at Duquesne, I’m not going anywhere,” said Thomas . “That’s always been my passion, working in a social work or human services job I enjoy community work, bringing that into the school, and just being able to play a part in trying to level the playing field for the kids ”
Throughout this year and last year, Thomas has tried to help boost attendance in the district, as well, working in conjunction with relevant school district employees . Thomas offers various rewards — like monthly parties for perfect attendance — to incentivize students, while also looking into root causes for student’s low attendance .
“We saw a pretty decent increase in attendance last year . We’re hoping to improve that this year,” said Thomas “We really didn’t get the monthly parties started until the end of last year, but the kids were asking about it as soon as school started again . ”
Chipping in in any way that she can — and seeing those efforts pay off — are gratifying for Thomas Above all, though, Thomas and her PACS colleagues enjoy their relationships with students and families . It might take some time for students to ask for help, Thomas said, but once she’s gained their trust, that’s when she knows she truly has made a difference .
“The most gratifying part of my job is the relationships with students . I’ve bonded with almost all of them,” said Thomas
“As I’ve become more of a presence here they’ve grown to trust me more in the sense that they’ll ask me when they need something It doesn’t have to be an uncomfortable or taboo topic . They’ll just come into my room now and ask for shampoo or whatever It’s very rewarding that they feel comfortable enough ”
Dr. Jennings’ class receives MVP Level recognition in Penguins’ Reading Champions Challenge
On March 23, Dr . Jennifer Jennings’ 3rd grade class received a special visit from the Pittsburgh Penguins Foundation and Iceburgh, the Penguins’ mascot, who informed students that they had received an MVP level recognition in the Penguins’ Reading Champions Challenge
Over an eight-week span, Dr . Jennings’ students collectively read for a whopping 29,682 minutes, earning them the highest level of recognition in the challenge
The Reading Champions Challenge, a reading initiative organized by U .S Steel and the Pittsburgh Penguins Foundation, encourages 3rd grade students to grow their love for reading through an eight-week program The goal of the challenge
is to have each student read for 20 minutes a day, the same amount of time in a hockey period . Each class is provided with a set of ten books focused on teamwork, kindness/anti-bullying, hockey and penguins Duquesne City 3rd grade classes have participated in the challenge in some capacity for three years, along with a plethora of other 3rd grade classes in Western Pennsylvania
For their efforts, students received a variety of gifts, most notably tickets for an upcoming Penguins game The district applauds Dr . Jennings’ students for their hard work and love for reading Keep up the good work!
Students learn coding, digital literacy through STEM Coding Lab
During a steM CoDing lesson this year—headed by Lucas Waldrop—a student raised his hand to make an astute observation .
“Without even me mentioning it, a student brought up that DNA is just like code in a computer, and how DNA creates the algorithm for how a cell functions,” said Waldrop “That’s been the main driving point of the session, but without me even saying it the kids connected it . That was really impressive . ”
Waldrop, an instructor for the STEM Coding Lab, a Pittsburgh-based organization focused on providing computer education, is heading STEM, computer-based lessons for Kindergarten-8th grade students this year .
Waldrop instructs 12 days of lessons for each respective grade level Currently, he’s working with Ms . Taylor’s 7th grade students, connecting computer-based learning to cell biology
“I think it’s been great Everything I’ve been doing has been relating computer science to cell biology,” said Waldrop
“I’m really appreciative of Duquesne City We’ve come in this year and built a really strong connection (Building Principal) Ms . Slobodnik and I have worked really closely together It’s really great to get into each individual teacher’s classroom and be able to connect with them ”
Waldrop caters each lesson to what teachers are currently focusing on For technologyinclined students, it’s an effective way to learn content But Waldrop’s lessons also act as professional development of sorts for teachers, showing them how different computer-based programs—like Scratch, a digital, block-based coding language—can be integrated into their classrooms .
“It can be used in any lesson It’s not just for computer science and coding . If a teacher is doing another lesson later in the year on the water cycle, they can make a project there,” said Waldrop
“Most jobs nowadays require digital literacy Especially with AI becoming so prevalent, even just understanding how to use a computer or how to use AI as a tool, it’s necessary for almost any job . ”
Beyond targeted lessons, Waldrop focuses on the value of critical thinking and problem solving, necessary skills in any walk of life Learning those basic skills—along with digital literacy—sets students up for success
“Recently when we were doing scratch coding, 25 or 30 percent of the class already knew how to do scratch They’re ahead of the game,” said Waldrop “They’re already getting in and trying to learn new techniques with coding algorithms without me having to even push that They’re interested to learn it ”
Duquesne City partners with UPchieve for free online tutoring
eDuCating a stuDent taKes all hanDs on DeCK. From teachers, to paraprofessionals, and everyone else in the school building, everyone plays a part, no matter how big or small .
Still, the district recognizes that additional help outside of the school walls can be helpful Over the past two school years, the district has partnered with UPchieve to provide free online tutoring services for students
While the tutoring services are just for 6th-8th grade students at the moment, UPchieve is looking to expand their reach Using the service is simple Students just log in and connect with a live, certified tutor over any core subject area . Students can even load their worksheets into the service for additional context Translation services are available, too .
“The tutors will work with them for as long as it takes to learn a skill,” said Michelle Stowell, a district instructional coach . “They even have language translation, which is really helpful And they’re looking to expand to meet our students’ needs ”
To encourage participation this year, Upchieve has added monthly raffles . Students get a ticket in the raffle for each tutoring session that they complete . The raffles—along with increased awareness about the service—has increased UPchieve usage
“A lot of students are using it when their teacher might be absent to get another layer of assistance,” said Mrs . Stowell
