A round of applause is given to a number of Allegheny Valley students...Story on page 3
2022 Hall of Fame
The District inducted two individuals into the Alumni Hall of Fame...Story on page 3
Foundation Update
The Dynamo Education Foundation continues its mission to support AV...Story on page 15.
Congratulations to the Springdale Jr-Sr High School Class of 2023. Sixty students participated in their graduation ceremony on Friday, May 26. Story on page 2; highlights of the class are listed on pages 6-7.
In the District...The District celebrates its students by recognizing and honoring five Future Famers in 2023... Story on page 5
At Acmetonia Elementary... For the third year, Acmetonia Elementary School sponsored a summer camp in June...Story on page 4
At Springdale Jr-Sr High School... Allegheny Valley continued several annual celebrations for the Class of 2023...Story on page 7.
SHS Holds 91st Graduation
The 91st graduating class of Springdale High School gathered in Marshall Auditorium on May 26th to celebrate the end of their high school years. Friends and family joined the 60 members of the Class of 2023 as they began their last official event as students in the Allegheny Valley School District.
Graduation marked the final milestone of the school for the year. Principal Andrew Leviski hosted the event for the class, challenging each member to hone in on their passion. He wished them the best of luck as they move on to the next steps of their lives.
Valedictorian Brendan Werries told his classmates, “You are a testament to whatever adversities have faced.” He talked about why it is important to show up for what you care about. “Just showing up will get you far.”
Salutatorian Ashley Spencer talked about the importance of support through adversity, the memories made, and that achievements don’t define you. “You define yourself,” she told them. “and it’s okay to use autocorrect.”
Superintendent Patrick Graczyk addressed the class, congratulating them on completing the year and encouraging them to enjoy the experience “of where you are because these moments don’t come around very often.”
The class earned more than $1,189,800 in
Superintendent’s Message
In the words of poet and environmental scientist Henry David Thoreau, “It’s not what you look at that matters, it’s what you see.” As many of our Dynamo families know, the District has partnered with the National Association for School Superintendents, the Grable Foundation, and school superintendents across Pennsylvania to re-envision what the future of schools could be - across the nation and right here at Allegheny Valley.
These partnerships have generated funding as well as opportunities for our leadership team to attend conferences and workshops on the future of schools and learning. As a result, Allegheny Valley received national recognition for the creation of ouR3 Room at Acmetonia Elementary School. OuR3 Room makes wellness a priority and is a place where students can take time to reset, refocus, and return to class.
To take another step forward and meet the needs of the future workforce, our community, and our children, the District is considering the development of “A Portrait of a Graduate.” A Portrait of a Gradu-
Valedictorian Brendan Werries, left, and salutatorian Ashley Spencer, right, led Springdale Jr-Sr High School’s 2023 graduating class.
scholarships, several hundreds of hours in the community, and worked to donate thousands of dollars to charities.
Georgia Dale, Senior Class Vice President, commented on good awareness, noting that “these kids made me who I am.” She thanked all the teachers and staff who helped the class and encouraged the students to “remember where you came from.”
For the pride that they have brought to the Allegheny Valley School District, congratulations and best wishes are extended to all members of the Class of 2023.
ate provides the framework to dream about our children’s futures and visualize what it means to be future-ready at AVSD.
As a learning organization, we need to understand the hopes and dreams of our students, community, families, school directors, alumni, local businesses, local and state leaders, staff, and school leaders to paint the portrait of what we want our learners to experience. The Portrait of a Graduate program has the potential to help us gain a deeper understanding of how to balance what we already know with what (continued on page 13)
Superintendent Dr. Patrick Graczyk speaks at Graduation.
District Highlights The Successes of 2022-2023
This year, the theme of “Reach” highlighted the District’s belief to move outside the comfort zone, extend beyond the norm, and achieve great things. Emphasis was placed on moving education to a new standard and enthusiastically build a better Allegheny Valley School District. Whether through academics, athletics, social, or extra-curricular areas, Allegheny Valley continues to build a first-class educational experience for all. Now, the District takes time to celebrate the following achievements:
• Allegheny Valley was awarded over $840,000 in various grants throughout the school year. Grants covered costs stemming from the pandemic and supported learning loss, safety, and technology.
• Acmetonia Elementary School created ouR3 Room to empower students to promote and manage their own social, emotional, and physical health, while striving to support challenge areas that impact their academic potential.
• Acmetonia Elementary School held its third Summer Camp to provide students with additional learning opportunities.
• One senior student became the first Springdale High School female to attend and graduate from the American Legion Auxiliary’s Girls’ State Program.
• One senior was inducted into the National Technical Honor Society at Forbes Road East CTC for Heating/Ventilation/Air Conditioning (HVAC).
• One junior student earned a 1st Place ranking at the state level in the Pennsylvania Junior Academy of Science competition at Penn State University.
• Two Allegheny Valley students were recognized as category winners in the 2023 Waldman International Arts & Writing competition for Middle School 3D Art and High School 3D Art. The elementary student was awarded the distinction of Grand Prize
Winner for the entire competition.
• One senior student participated in the PMEA District 1 East Honors Band and the PMEA Region 1 Honors Band.
• Two Springdale Jr-Sr High School students earned 3rd place honors (7th grade female solo and 10th (continued on page 14)
2023 Alumni Hall of Fame
The Allegheny Valley School District inducted its Alumni Hall of Fame, Class of 2023, on Saturday, April 30. Developed to recognize, celebrate, and honor those alumni who have distinguished themselves through public service, academic achievement, and professional contributions, the Alumni Hall of Fame honors alumni who serve to enhance the prestige and excellence of the school district. Francine Eileen Adams Miller (attended 1957-1969) graduated from Springdale High School in 1969. She went on to become a bank teller, employed by PNC Bank. Miller worked through the ranks to become a teller supervisor, retiring after 27 years. Her focus returned to her community, leading her to run for mayor of Springdale Borough. In 2009, Miller became the second female mayor for the community. In 2013, she switched roles to become a councilwoman for the Borough, a position which she continues to hold. Miller volunteers in many capacities, including as one of the first women to become part of the Cheswick-Springdale Lions Club. She has served as President and Vice President of the organization. Miller also served the public as a member of St. Alphonsus Church, the Catholic Daughters of America, the Springdale Volunteer Fire Department, and the Springdale High School Alumni Association. She was honored with the Elizabeth A. Yanni Award for Community Service for her efforts. Miller portrays the true meaning of “public servant.”
(continued on page 14)
The 2023 Alumni Hall of Fame inductees from left to right: Francine Adams Miller and Robert Koch Turano.
Senior Joe Wylly was inducted into the National Technical Honor Society at Forbes Road CTC.
New In Education...
Acmetonia Holds Summer Program Pathways to Graduation
Acmetonia Elementary students participate in Acmetonia Elementary School’s 2023 Summer Camp.
In June, Acmetonia Elementary School hosted its third Summer Camp program. Eighty-two students, from those who will be entering Kindergarten in the fall to those finishing grade 6, participated in the Around the World theme. All students received free breakfast as part of the program.
The one-week, half-day program was for any student, with a focus on learning literacy and proficiency through STREAM (Science, Technology, Reading, Engineering, Art, and Math). Students broke apart into groups according to grade levels. Teachers led each group through learning activities.
For example, incoming Kindergarten students focused on foundational skills for school readiness including social learning. Other activities included sight word poetry, renewable and nonrenewable resources, happy counting, and roller coaster phenomena.
In addition, over the course of the week there were several opportunities for the upper elementary students to work with the younger students as peer buddies. These activities are always a favorite of the students, one that generates a lot of fun and many new friends. This year’s Camp was funded by the Grabel Foundation through a Little Tugboat Grant.
Act 158 of 2018 and Act 6 of 2017 provide students with alternatives to Pennsylvania’s statewide requirement of attaining proficiency on the three Keystone Exams (Algebra I, Literature, and Biology). Effective with the graduating class of 2023, students had the option to demonstrate postsecondary preparedness through one of four pathways that more fully illustrate college, career, and community readiness.
The majority of Allegheny Valley School District students complete this requirement by passing the Algebra, Biology, and Literature Keystone exams. During the 11th grade year, school counselors work directly with students to determine pathways after they review Keystone scores. The four alternates include:
1. Keystone Proficiency
2. Keystone Composite
3. Career and Technical Education Concentrator
4. Alternative Assessment
5. Evidence-Based
Options have been determined for waivers or Individualized Education Program (IEP) for qualified students.
Although students will no longer be required to achieve proficiency on the Keystone Exams to meet the statewide graduation requirement, students must take the Keystone Exams for purposes of federal accountability. In addition, all students must meet the criteria of one of the stated pathways to successfully graduate. Students and parents with questions should contact the high school or their child’s counselor. In addition, an Act 158: Pathways to Graduation Toolkit is available on the Pennsylvania Department of Education’s website at: https://pdesas.org/Frameworks/DCEToolKit/Act158PathwaysToGraduationToolkit.
Students can now choose a pathway to graduation from one of four options set by the state.
Future Famers Recognized
Allegheny Valley acknowledges the efforts of students to show support for the areas in which they show innovation, creativity, and dedication. In its fifth year, the Future Famers Program recognizes current students, at any grade level, who consistently demonstrate an outstanding commitment to improve the District through school and community involvement, entrepreneurship, and/or scholastic achievement. An extension of the District’s Alumni Hall of Fame, it is a prestigious honor awarded to students who impact the school community.
Students are selected to the program who demonstrate superior leadership, integrity, and achievement through community involvement, participation in school activities, innovation, and/or scholarship. These student leaders distinguish themselves from many other outstanding students by their actions in the classroom and throughout the local communities.
The intent of the program is to encourage and emphasize that students can succeed on whatever path they choose. The 2023 class of Future Famers includes: Abigail Anderson, Addison Schussman, Joseph Wylly, and Isabella Zahner - grade 12, and Zachary Sanders - grade 11.
These students signify a bright future for District
2023 Future Famers (from left to right) Addison Schussman (grade 12), Joseph Wylly (grade 12), Isabella Zahner (grade 12), Zachary Sanders (grade 11), and Abigail Anderson (grade 12).
alumni. They have taken the extra steps necessary to work hard, grow their talents, and continue to go the extra mile to see that their dreams come true. On a daily basis, they remind us that there are no limits to what Allegheny Valley students can achieve. They represent the District in the most positive manner and truly exemplify the meaning of the word Dynamo.
Co-Teaching in the District
This year, Acmetonia Elementary teachers began co-teaching at every grade level. According to the Council for Exceptional Children (www.exceptionalchildren.org) “Co-teaching is a collaborative approach to instruction in which two teachers, typically a general education teacher and a special education teacher, work together to plan and then implement instruction for a class that includes students with disabilities.”
To begin the program, the District announced a partnership with the Allegheny Intermediate Unit
(AIU) and Mrs. Kate Stuckey in the fall of 2022. This partnership began over the summer with training and support for staff. In September, the team reunited to continue their hard work in planning and preparation for the students.
The AIU focused on providing the school community with professional development for school administrators and teachers to implement co-teaching in their classrooms. The series of training opportunities provided teams of educators with the background and skills necessary to begin to implement a co-teaching model. Participation in the series included on-site customized support, sessions for implementation suggestions, and problem solving. The District held the program throughout the school year.
“We are very happy with the results of the first year of the program,” commented Dr. Melissa Holler, Supervisor of Pupil Services. “Our data shows that students in grades K and 5 made significant gains in ELA based on the results of standardized scores. These scores can be attributed to the consistent co-teaching model to which teachers dedicated their school year,”
Congratulations to the Class of 2023
Abigail Anderson
Alexis Anker
Owen Argue
Jack Arlotti
Summer Behanna
Riley Betts
Emily Bigler
Bella Burrell
Chase Campas
Isabella Cetra
Peyton Chapman
Luke Cicolini
Kaitlyn Claus
Raenna Cuiffi
Georgia Dale
Mikayla DiLeo
Nathan Folmer
Amelia Furrer
Lillian Gamble
Grace Gent
Michael Goedicke
Ire’Ona Harris-Watson
Emma Heckman
Nicolet Hoover
Jayce Klysz
Wyatt Kriss
Gianna Laird
Ahlainna Lang
Zachary Martin
Christopher Mitchell
Callie Moore
Logan Narr
Luke Newman
Bret Overly
Shyanne Panza
Jaina Parsons
Dean Pater
Cooper Perrotte
Madison Queen
Alana Rudolf
James Sanfilippo
Haylee Schreckengost
Addison Schussmann
Frank Sgambati
Brooke Shaffer Zayac
Hailey Shondeck
Gary Skowronski
Derek Smajda
Matthew Sovick
Ashley Spencer
Kelsey Sprouse
Caitlyn Stec
Haley Sweetland
Holden Swink
Rhylee Walls
Brendan Werries
Zuriel Williams
Joseph Wylly
Isabella Zahner
Senior Moments...
As the Class of 2023 leaves Springdale Jr-Sr High School, they can be proud of the following:
- Springdale Jr-Sr High School graduated 60 students in 2023.
- Approximately 47 percent of the class received scholarships. The sources were: College/university/ Post-secondary scholarships $ 939,800 Armed Service Scholarships 00 Local Scholarships 25,000
TOTAL: $1,189,800
- Twenty-eight scholarships are offered and awarded by the local community.
- The post-secondary plans of the graduating class:
- 44% pursuing four-year college degrees
- 15% entering a junior college or community college, then planning to transfer to a baccalaureate degree program.
- 17% entering vocational-technical or business schools.
- 0% entering the Armed Services
- 9% entering the job market
- 15% undecided
- Students will attend more than 46 different universities, colleges, and technical schools.
- Students have registered for more than 29 areas of study at post-secondary institutions.
Seniors Stroll the Halls of Acme
For the past six years, Springdale Jr-Sr High School seniors have taken time to put on their caps and gowns and walk once more through the Acmetonia Elementary building. For seniors, the event has become a time to reminisce, a way to reconnect with former teachers, and a way for them to provide inspiration. It also gives younger students and staff a chance to say congratulations.
Acme students lined the halls, jumping up and down with hand-made signs, to give a well-deserved round of applause and even some high-fives to the graduates. Elementary staff members joined in, happy to have the opportunity to see former students before they graduate.
Students are able to walk the entire building and take a group photo on the front steps, before loading back on to a school bus to head back to the high school.
Deemed an “instant success” several years ago
by staff and students alike, the event continues as one of the “newest” traditions for the District. Even with a short break due to Covid, the Senior Stroll reminds all students and staff about the importance of an Allegheny Valley education. It’s become one more reason to be Dynamo Proud.
Members of the Class of 2023 stroll the halls of Acmetonia Elementary School.
TEN THINGS DYNAMO
10 Things Making Us Pretty Dynamo Proud Right Now
1. Creating ouR3 Room
Acmetonia Elementary students have a new area to visit in their school. The space is called ouR3 room - a place where priorities are reset, refocused, and students are able to return to learning. The area was created to empower students to promote and manage their own social, emotional, and physical health, while striving to support challenge areas that impact their academic potential. The vision is to provide a range of resources that support students to meet the challenges of the school setting through prevention, earlyintervention, and education, in a safe and convenient place.
Students are able to visit the room when they are having significant mood swings, changes in mood, or emotional lability. The initiative contains simple, quiet activities that students can use, providing a structured break to help these students self-regulate, so they can alleviate their distress and get back to learning.
5.
District To Watch
2.
The Allegheny Valley School District was honored by the Learning 2025 Network team with the designation of Good Choice for Lighthouse designation. The designation of Good Choice means that Allegheny Valley is seen as progressing its educational makeup, while including measures that will sustain the educational program in the future. It also shows evidence that the program is relevant and apparent in the schools and suggests that positive outcomes are promising.
3.
First Place Ranking
Junior Molly Hurley earned a First Place ranking at the state level of the Pennsylvania Junior Academy of Science competition at Penn State University in May. Molly’s experiment was an original variation of the famous Asch Conformity Line Test.
4.
Expanding Communication
In an effort to expand communication, the District has brought together three forms of communication, This Friday..., The Survey Spot, and the Superintendent’s Circle, to strengthen relationships with stakeholders.
This Friday...an interactive electronic newsletter provides clarity to families about the schools, programs, and student successes. Survey Spot...allows families to provide feedback about District programs. And the Superintendent’s Circle promotes a way to start conversations about important topics in our schools.
A Well-Deserved Honor Ms. McCall Emerick was recognized as one of the 100 Disney Imagination Campus Teachers at Disneyland. Teachers from around the United States submitted their inspiring stories of how they are using imagination-powered learning to positively impact the lives of their students and communities, and are selected to celebrate their amazing creativity and dedication. Ms. Emerick took part in a weekend experience at the Disney Imagination Campus workshops reflecting curriculum in Science & Technology, Arts & Humanities Leadership & Innovation, and Performing Arts.
7.
Way To Go Dynamos!
The Springdale Jr-Sr High School Girls’ Soccer Team began their season with high hopes and a belief that they could continue the District’s soccer tradition and win another championship. The team aimed to qualify for the playoffs, and their season exceeded all expectations. After ending the regular season with a 13-3 record, the team entered the WPIAL playoffs. The group traveled to Kiski Area for their first playoff round and beat a skilled Sewickley Academy group, 3-2. After defeating a tough Mohawk team in the second round, the Dynamos prepared for Waynesburg Central, beating them 5-0 to move on to the WPIAL Class A final. Springdale was an unexpected challenger in the championship game, facing powerhouse Freedom High School. The Lady Dynamos played a tough match, but ultimately brought home the runner-up trophy for their efforts. However, the pride they brought to the District made them true winners.
9.
Welcome Back
6.
Around The World
Acmetonia families participated in the Around The World In One Night event. During the District’s last School-Community Night of the year, students and their families were able to “travel” throughout the building and visit all seven continents thanks to the Acme staff. Activities were held in classrooms that had students completing art projects, viewing wildlife native to the area, and listening to stories. Every student received a passport, and after six stamps were received, passports could be exchanged for raffle tickets to win various gift baskets donated by the community.
8.
Well Done
Senior Abigail Anderson, became the first Springdale Jr-Sr High School student to ever attend and graduate from the American Legion Auxiliary Girls’ State Program. The program teaches leadership, government workings, and is a stepping stone to scholarship opportunities and a military academy appointment, if pursued. With Springdale’s American Legion Post 764 not having an auxiliary, this instance was very rare.
A number of alumni returned to the high school this year to talk about careers with current students. Several individuals randomly contacted her without knowing about the others and teacher Susan Mellon created a new program that encompasses career awareness. The idea allows all 7th and 8th grade students to attend a presentation by the speaker during their rotation period; 9-12 students could participate if they are interested in the career. As part of the presentation, the speakers planned interactive activities for the students. Six speakers were part of the series this year. The students liked hearing from the SHS alumni, and the program is scheduled to continued for the next school year.
Giving Projects
Among many student giving projects completed this year, sixty Acmetonia Elementary fourth-grade students raised $6,216.50 for the EcoStudent Challenge. The Challenge encourages students to learn facts about the environment and secure sponsors to pay amounts for each fact the students get correct on a test. Over the four years the project has been held, grade 4 has raised a total of $25,188.74. Proceeds go to Cape Clasp, a purpose-driven brand with a mission to #makewaves for marine life causes. Through their efforts, Acme students support sea wildlife such as sharks, sea turtles, and whales.
In Our Schools... Junior Named Player of the Year
Springdale Jr-Sr High
School
Fortieth Honors Banquet Held
For the 40th year, Springdale Jr-Sr High School recognized students in grades 7-12 for high academic achievement. At this year’s Honors Banquet, 92 students were awarded certificates for achieving 94% or above for each of the first three nine weeks of the school year. Twenty seniors were honored, including seven who were recognized for Honors Achievement each year of their SHS careers - Georgia Dale, Mikayla DiLeo, Bret Overly, Addison Schussmann, Ashley Spencer, Haley Sweetland, and Brendan Werries. Congratulations are extended to all of the students and their families.
were recognized at this year’s Honors Banquet for attending each of their high school years.
Marching Band Wins First Place
Springdale Jr-Sr High School’s Marching Band and Cheerleaders took First Place at the Hershey Music in the Parks Parade Competition in May. The group made a great performance, and the award was an awesome way to end the school year.
Music In The Parks is an educationally-focused music festival that provides school performing ensembles the opportunity to learn from conductors in the field of music education today. Their mission is to bring together student musicians and adjudicatorclinicians for performances that establish musical growth, achievement, and recognition.
Springdale Jr-Sr High School’s John Hughes won the Valley News Dispatch’s Baseball Player of the Year honors. Only a junior, Hughes has been a standout in the sport for a number of years. He compiled a .649 batting average, pitched to a 2.08 ERA, and didn’t strike out in 53 times at bat. Those are only some of the reasons he was given the honor.
He works hard according to his coaches and puts in time during the season and over the summer months to improve his game. “This honor recognizes the hard work that [Hughes] puts in off the field,” commented principal Andrew Leviski. “Certainly, the many hours spent working in the offseason has allowed John to excel this season.”
Perhaps the highlight of the year, was on May 5 in a game vs. Western Beaver where he pitched a two-hit, complete game shutout with 15 strikeouts. The Dynamos won the game 2-0. Hughes has made an obvious impact on the Springdale baseball program. Although ending the season with a 6-10 record, the team is advancing the program.
Hughes has some great goals, hoping to play baseball in college and study business. And, the big one, “I want to make the playoffs,” he says.
“Hitting a baseball is not easy and for a player to not strike out all season, that is truly impressive!” continued Leviski.
“ I am so proud of John.”
Seven students
Acmetonia Elementary School
6th Grade Holds Career
Day
Grade 6 hosted a Career Day in May as part of the Classroom Champion program. With a focus on leadership, the Career Day invited local individuals and companies to talk about leadership and employment.
Participants included Mr. Bruno Moretti (CPR/ First Aid/Babysitting), Bobby Long (Shultz Ford), Sean Watson (Entrepreneur/Owner of SoCal, Bottle and National Public House), Ashley Poillucci (Curtiss Wright - Engineer), and Cole Skoretz (Independent Musician).
Kindergarten Graduation Held
The end of the school year brings graduation not only for Springdale High seniors but also for the District’s younger students. Continuing an annual tradition, Kindergarten students held their own graduation ceremony.
Family and friends packed the Syria Mosque to help celebrate the conclusion of this group’s first full-day year of school. Students marched onto the stage to receive their diplomas and end their days in Kindergarten. Elementary Supervisor Gregory Heavner and the Kindergarten teachers helped students on their way. The Class of 2035 has 59 very proud members.
Acmetonia students visit the Book Fair to purchase materials to read at home and school.
Book Fair Continues
Once again, Acmetonia Elementary School offered the chance for students to attend a spring Book Fair. A favorite of students and staff alike, the Fair provides the opportunity not only for students to purchase books, but for teachers and the school to garner some additional reading material for students.
This year, the Fair was sponsored by the Allegheny Valley PTA. The group stepped in to hold the event as a fund raiser for their organization, while keeping the tradition of a March Book Fair going.
Staff at the Acmetonia building have also added a Back to School Book Fair and a pop-up Book Fair in past years.
Students Lead SCRATCH Class
Third and fourth grade students had the opportunity to attend a SCRATCH class after school for three afternoons. SCRATCH is a drop and drag computer coding language that is available for free from Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT). This class was special because five great coders helped teach the class (Acmetonia students Persephone Price, Phen Mundok, Balan Mundok, Tyler Harpine, and Mason Seborowski).
Scratch is the world’s largest coding community for children and a coding language with a simple visual interface that allows young people to create digital stories, games, and animations. Scratch is designed, developed, and moderated by the Scratch Foundation, a nonprofit organization.
New Reading Series: District Adopts CKLA
The Allegheny Valley School District Board of Directors voted to purchase a new English Language Arts program - Amplify CKLA (Core Knowledge Language Arts) for the 2023-24 school year. This program, for Kindergarten - grade 6, is based on the science of reading, which is developed from 50 years of scientific research.
The Amplify CKLA reading program uses phonological awareness, decoding and spelling, and sight recognition to build word recognition. In turn, language comprehension is built on the basis of the skills needed for word recognition. Students with strong word recognition and language comprehension skills become proficient readers.
Many of the reading materials are based on real-world science and history content to expand students background knowledge about the world around us. The program provides rich and relevant topics and has themes that continue Kindergarten through grade 6.
A team of teachers from the affected grade levels studied various series that are in the marketplace. The goal was to select a product that would work for District students and help to encourage a love of reading. The group recommended CKLA, and after a time period of review for parents, that recommendation went to the School Board Curriculum Committee.
The Committee reviewed the materials, agreed with the recommendation, and approved the system in April. The District looks forward to the start of school, excited to implement the Amplify CKLA reading program.
Looking Forward...
The SchoolMessenger program will be the new mass notification system used by the District.
Allegheny Valley will be adding some new platforms for parents for the 2023-24 school year, updating areas of concern for officials.
First, the District has used a mass notification system to provide information to parents and families throughout the past several school years. Emails, texts, and phone calls can be made through this system to advise individuals of students absences, cafeteria updates, emergency situations, or activities and events.
During the last school year, a number of issues came up with the system that was in use. With these matters in mind, administrators have selected to move to the School Messenger system. The same areas of information will be sent, however, it is our hope that all parties will receive information in a more consistent and extensive manner.
The District is also creating an electric parent sign-off process, so that parents/guardians can confirm that they have read important information from the schools. Policies, emergency information, and other documents will be provided on the CSIU system with a check-off process for families. The items are of utmost importance for parents to be aware of and understand.
“With technology already in place, it makes sense to use it to help our families better understand District procedures,” commented Jan Zastawniak, Public Relations Director. “We’re trying to reach out to provide information in an easy-toaccess manner.”
Staff Members Retire
At the end of the 2022-23 school year, three Allegheny Valley staff members announced their retirements. These individuals dedicated much of their lives to the field of education; the District loses numerous years of experience as these staff members walk out the doors for the last time. Each of these individuals has played a memorable and necessary role for the students of Allegheny Valley. We thank...
Cathy Moretti began working for Allegheny Valley in 1994 as a substitute clerical employee. She started working part time in 2002, moved to a 10-month position in 2007, and became full-time in 2010. Moretti has worked in all District offices throughout her career, however, the majority of her time was spent in the Business Office. Moretti retires with 29 years of service.
Ernie Pulliam joined the Allegheny Valley staff in 2005 as a substitute custodian. He was hired full time in 2009. Pulliam has primarily worked the night shift at Springdale Jr-Sr High School and could be seen at various events throughout the year. Pulliam retires with 18 years with the District.
Randy Schmotzer served as a substitute custodian before being hired full time in 1996. Schmotzer worked in the Colfax School then moved to a maintenance position in 2001. During his employment, he received his residential and light commercial electric certification. Schmotzer also worked the clock at numerous athletic events over the years. He retires with 32 years with the District.
On behalf of Allegheny Valley staff, students, and community members, a very big thank you is sent to each of these individuals. They have touched numerous lives, contributed to various District programs, and made Allegheny Valley a better place. While their departures will leave a void, they are wished the best of luck in whatever path they choose to follow. They deserve a happy and healthy retirement, and will truly be missed.
Superintendent’s
Message...continued from page 2
we still need to explore to prepare our students for future success.
A vital component for leading our District toward an aspirational vision of hope includes embracing what we do well in our schools, while preparing our learners for the unknown. We are on a journey with our students, staff, and incredible community. Along the way, we look for this program to help us see the skills and experiences we want our learners to possess for future success.
Financial Update:
The 2023-2024 Budget
Allegheny Valley School District’s Final General Fund Operating Budget for the 2023-2024 school year was approved by the Board of School Directors in the amount of $24,655,258. The millage rate is unchanged at 20.8377 mills, one half of 1% earned income tax, one-half of 1% real estate transfer tax and one-half of $10 occupation privilege tax. The budget is student-focused, providing for a balance of student experiences in academics, athletics, and the arts. It is the culmination of many meetings both administratively and publicly to maintain current instructional programs and activities.
Local revenues are projected to increase slightly. The economic conundrum deepens in the upcoming school year with rising interest rates combating persistent inflation. This could affect real estate transfer taxes and real estate tax collections as well.
The Budget reflects an increase in state revenues. Governor Shapiro had proposed significant funding increases for all schools and additional level-up funding for public schools in distress. He also proposed additional funding for vouchers. School vouchers versus level-up funding reflects the partisan divide in the legislature. For yet another budget cycle, charter school reform to provide relief to school districts is slim. Instead the Governor is likely to pass increased funding for voucher programs.
Federal revenues are estimated to be much lower at pre-Covid levels with allocations for Title I, II, and IV programs. It reflects the absence of American Rescue Plan or ESSER funds. The district has also separately allocated monies from the Capital Reserve Funds for Technology needs and upcoming facilities improvements and projects.
2023-2024 Final Budget Expenditures By Object
2023-2024 District Calendar
July 4, 2023 Independence Day Holiday (District Closed)
August 15-16, 2023 Professional Development (Teachers Only)
August 17, 2023 Clerical Day (Teachers Only)
August 21, 2023 First Day for Students
August 31, 2023 Open House (Teachers Only)
September 4, 2023 Labor Day (District Closed)
September 22, 2023 Professional Development (Teachers Only)
October 20, 2023 Act 80 - Staff Development (Teachers Only)
November 23-27, 2023 Thanksgiving Vacation
December 25, 2023 -
January 1, 2024 Holiday Break
January 2, 2024 Professional Development (MOUTeachers Only)
January 15, 2024 Martin Luther King, Jr. Day/ Clerical Day (Teachers Only)
February 16, 2024 Staff Development (MOU - Teachers Only)
February 19, 2024 Presidents’ Day (District Closed)
March 7, 2024 Open House/Community Engagement
March 8, 2024 Act 80 - Staff Development (Teachers Only)
March 28 - April 1, 2024 Spring Break (District Closed)
April 12, 2024 Staff Development (Teachers Only)
May 27, 2024 Memorial Day Break (District Closed)
May 31, 2024 Last Day for Students
May 31, 2024 Graduation
June 3, 2024 Clerical Day (Teachers Only)
June 4, 2024 Staff Development - MOU
Local School Holidays: Nov. 24; Dec. 26, 28, 29; March 29. Weather/Emergency Make-up Days: Please note AVSD has been approvedby the PA Department of Education to use up to five Flexible Instruction Days (FID) for weather/emergency make-up. If any additional days are needed as make-up days, they will be added to the calendar beginning June 1, 2024.
Thank You...
Special thanks are extended to all staff members who submitted articles and photos for this edition of AVENEWS. Also, thanks to Mike Werries and Gavin Zahner for sharing their photos with the District.
Alumni Hall of Fame...
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Robert Koch Turano (attended 1960 - 1972) graduated from Springdale High School in 1972. He obtained a Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of Pittsburgh in Speech and Theatre Arts and went on to become the Artistic Director of the Fine Line Theatre Company in Oakland. After performing in many local shows, Turano moved to New York where he broke into television playing Bernardo Sandoval on The Guiding Light. He is one of a handful of actors who have appeared on every iteration of the Law And Order franchise. At one point Turano appeared on every TV show shot in New York while also working on Broadway and in film and commercials. Turano supports the acting community by sharing his expertise through coaching, advising and mentoring everyone from students to award winning actors. While performing at the Pittsburgh Playhouse, he frequently teaches a Master Class at Point Park University. As a cancer survivor and a true “actor’s actor,” Turano has spent his career learning, teaching and performing with no plans to stop. He inspires through his profession and his generous spirit to help others.
The District has a great history of successful alumni. Not only do these individuals represent the quality of education provided in the District, they serve as role models for today’s students. Allegheny Valley will soon begin its search for the next class of alumni to be inducted. For more information, visit the District’s web site at www.avsdweb.org < Community & Alumni < Alumni Hall of Fame.
Highlights...continued from page 3
grade male solo) and one student earned a 1st place (12th grade female solo) in the ESSPA Vocal Competition.
• Acmetonia ESL students entered a writing contest - the Young Writers’ Peculiar Pets contest; the work was chosen to be published in the company book.
• SHS Boys’ and Girls’ Soccer teams were invited to participate in the W.P.I.A.L. playoffs, with the Girls’ Soccer Team winning the W.P.I.A.L. Class A Runner-Up Trophy.
The District congratulates all of its students and staff members on this year’s accomplishments. They continue to work hard to bring recognition and esteem to Allegheny Valley. Parents, community members, and alumni should be extremely proud of a job well done.
Continuing Its Mission
The Dynamo Education Foundation renewed its efforts in 2022-23, hosting its major fund raiser of the year - a dinner evening at the Harmar House. Favorite The Fabulous Gemtones entertained, as the Foundation Board provided a Chinese Auction with fantastic donated baskets and a Silent Auction of art projects from Springdale Jr-Sr High School students and several alumni. A fantastic time was had by all.
As the school year came to an end, the Boardawarded grants for 2023-2024 school year and reorganized with new officers. Additional events were also discussed to continue fund raising efforts. Look forward to hearing more about the return of a Soccer Reunion and possible dodge ball or indoor soccer tournaments for students.
In addition, the group continued its mission to support the Allegheny Valley School District by sponsoring lawn signs for every member of the senior class and the Senior Parade in the community. These projects were greatly appreciated by the students, parents, and members of the school district.
The Foundation’s Board is also reaching out to local businesses and organizations to rebuild its Partner Program. Small and large businesses are able to donate to the Foundation in support of the Allegheny Valley School District. Letters will go out again this summer to create a new donor list. Individuals may also donate to the organization. Financial assistance is always welcome, but volunteering for events or helping to develop new fund raising projects also tremendously helps the Foundation.
In a time when so many organizations are reaching out for monetary assistance, the Foundation would like to extend its appreciation to all of the individuals, businesses, and organizations for their continued support. The Dynamo family always comes together to help the Foundation, the School District, and the students.
For additional information on the Dynamo Education Foundation, please go to https://www.avsdweb.org/ foundation. If you would like to donate or volunteer to help the Foundation, please contact jzastawniak@ avsd.k12.pa.us.
2023-2024 Grants
The Dynamo Education Foundation is proud to announce the awarding of two grants to Allegheny Valley staff members for the 2023-24 school year:
• Project 1: The Science Behind Green Science. The project will allow students to collect data in areas of science that are studied throughout the school year, and allow the students to work with data that is meaningful to them. Staff recipient: McCall Emerick, Grade 6 Teacher.
• Project 2: AV Closet. Create an “AV Closet” in both buildings to provide an in-school resource of hygiene products, clothing, etc. so students can succeed in school and in life. Staff recipient: Danielle Britton, District Social Worker.
In the ten years of the grant program, the Dynamo Education Foundation has awarded staff members over $27,000 for 33 classroom projects, activities, and programs. Fundraising is held throughout the year to support the program. The Dynamo Education Foundation is proud to be able to present these grants to various members of the Allegheny Valley staff, support students and their families, and increase the grant awards each year.
The Dynamo Education Foundation hosted its annual fund raiser at the Harmar House in Cheswick.
Allegheny Valley School District
300 Pearl Avenue
Cheswick, PA 15024
Our Mission: The mission of the Allegheny Valley School District, a group of small traditional communities, is to educate all students to achieve their maximum potential. A dedicated staff, in partnership with school, home, and community, will empower students to become responsible and contributing citizens able to meet challenges in an international society.
Unless otherwise noted, the Allegheny Valley Board of School Directors conducts its agenda planning session on the second Tuesday of the month. Regular meetings are held on the third Tuesday of each month. Both meetings are held in the Acmetonia Primary School Forum beginning at 7:00 p.m. (A complete list of the meetings is located on the District’s web site: www.avsdweb.org.)
The newsletter is published through the Public Relations Department of the Allegheny Valley School District. Comments and inquiries pertaining to the newsletter should be sent to Ms. Janice Zastawniak, Public Relations Director, 300 Pearl Avenue, Cheswick, PA 15024.
The Allegheny Valley School District will not discriminate in its education programs, activities, or employment practices, based on race, color, national origin, gender, religion, ancestry, disability, union membership, or any other legally protected classification. Announcement of this policy is in accordance with state and federal laws, including Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972, and sections 503 and 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973. Employees and others involved with the District who have a complaint of discrimination or harassment or require information about accommodations for disabled individuals, should contact the superintendent of schools by calling 724-274-5300 or writing and mailing a letter addressed to 300 Pearl Avenue, Cheswick, PA 15024.
Administration...
Patrick M. Graczyk, Ed.D.
Superintendent
Jennifer L. Vecchio
Coordinator of Curriculum & Instruction
Melissa Holler, Ph.D.
Supervisor of Pupil Services
Andrew Leviski
Springdale Jr-Sr High School Principal
Melissa Gibbon
Springdale Jr-Sr High School Assistant Principal
Gregory J. Heavner
Elementary Supervisor
Janice Zastawniak
Public Relations Director/Newsletter Editor
Board Of School Directors...
President
Larry Pollick
Vice President Kathleen Haas
Treasurer Paula Jean Moretti
David Buchman, Salvatore Conte, Colleen Crumb, Antonio Pollino, Glenna Renaldi, Amy Sarno
Secretary Hamsini Rajgopal, Ed.D. Solicitor Matt Hoffman, Esq.
