Student Spotlight Stories

2017

Greater Allegheny Field Trip

May 2017

A group of juniors took a field trip to Penn State Greater Allegheny’s campus on Thursday, March 23 for their College and Career Knowledge Day. From the moment we left the school there were admissions counselors answering questions from our students. During our first meeting the students were welcomed by the University President Eric J. Barron. We also met with Tony Gomez, Admissions Counselor/International Student Recruitment. He spoke about the various programs and opportunities available to students that choose to attend Penn State.  Following our welcome, we were given a tour of the campus and had several sessions with the faculty and some current students. Our students were able to talk to current college students and learn the ins and outs of college life from their perspective. Our students were exceptional! They asked insightful questions and demonstrated leadership and intellect. The entire day was an eye-opening experience for what their futures will hold.

SADD — F.B.I. HOPE Video Contest

April 2017

Congratulations to members of Steel Valley SADD (Students Against Destruction Decisions) who created a public service announcement for the F.B.I. HOPE video contest.  They were presented with a trophy, a check, and a certificate during an awards ceremony and luncheon that was held at the University of Pittsburgh on April 19th.  The students are Abby Ferson, Abbey Caspar, Haley Senich, and Henry Spencer III.

Jefferson Hospital’s “Name the Robot Challenge”

April 2017

Through a collaborative effort between Mrs. Tracy McGrew, Mrs. Traci Churilla, and Mr. Joseph Holland, which provided all of Mrs. McGrew’s  7th Grade Science students the opportunity to participate in the Jefferson Hospital’s “Name the Robot Challenge.”  Out of numerous other schools in Allegheny County, the winner was selected from one of the eleven Steel Valley Middle School student submissions.  Students utilized their iPads to create original iMovie’s and/or Keynotes to present their suggestions for the name of the Mako Robotic-Arm Technology those Jefferson Hospital surgeons will be using to assist in total and partial hip and knee replacements.  

We are proud to announce the overall winner of the “Name the Robot Challenge.“ Congratulations to Steel Valley Middle School’s own Ben Novotny and his winning submission on making medical history!

2016-2017 SV High School Bowling Highlights

April 2017

The Steel Valley Boys Varsity team finished with a 6-4 record, which earned them third place in their section. The team was lead by WPIBL qualifiers Alex Ligeros (194 AVG, 3rd in section), Sal Gori (193 AVG, 4th in section), and Nick Olszewski (182 AVG, 12th in section). Ligeros and Gori also qualified for the PIAA Regional Tournament. Rounding out the members of the varsity team were Robby Barker, Dom Conderato, Lucas Vargo, and Luke Navarro.

The Steel Valley Girls Varsity team finished with an 8-2 record, earning them a second place section finish and a trip to the WPIBL Team Championships. The girls team also performed well enough at the WPIBL Team Event to qualify for the PIAA Regional Team Tournament. The girls team was lead by WPIBL qualifiers Alexis Vargo (156 AVG, 4th in section), Reganne McMichael (148 AVG, 7th in section), and Danielle Long (140 AVG, 9th in section). Alexis Vargo also qualified for the PIAA Singles Regional Tournament as well. The girls varsity team was completed by Angelica Good, Ashley Kostovny, Katie Proof, Ashlee Saracco, Jaz Custis, and Taylor Yothers.

“A special thanks to former Steel Valley bowler and volunteer assistant coach, Cole Eged, for his help in making this season such a success. His enthusiasm and knowledge of the sport, coupled with his hard work with the team, was a big reason why this team accomplished so much.” stated Varsity Coach Ed Tozzi.

Painting With A Twist

March 2017

Students from Steel Valley High School were invited to participate in a painting lesson at the Painting With a Twist studio on the South Side on March 17th.  For each student who attended, the studio donated $10 to Camp Kesem, an organization that supports children touched by their parent’s cancer.  This is the second year that the student council has organized such an event.  Each year, they plan to choose a different charity.

“Rock the Belt Challenge”

March 2017

Henry Spencer III, Abby Ferson, Haley Senich, and Abbey Caspar

Steel Valley SADD members Henry Spencer III, Abby Ferson, Haley Senich, and Abbey Caspar were presented with a plaque from The Allegheny County Youth Traffic Safety Council for being winners of the “Rock the Belt Challenge” for promoting seat belt safety and receiving the highest percentage of change of seat belt compliance during the 2016 Rock the Belt Campaign.

These same students also tied for 3rd place in the FBI Hope contest for an anti-heroin video PSA they produced.

Systems Design Lab

March 2017

The Future is Mine club provided a workshop today for 22 Steel Valley’s Technology & Business students through the Green Building Alliance. The Systems Design Lab on Building and Climate Science was a huge success and ran by Teresa DeFlitch and CAPA student: Gigi Varlotta, in our Creating Value room. This lab introduced students to systems thinking through games and hands on design activities. Through adopting different lens, such as energy; resiliency; well-being; beauty; and accessibility participants in the lab learned about green building design and how buildings interact with larger forces, such as climate change. Students walked away with a new way of seeing the world and concrete examples of how they can use what they learned to address issues that are important to them. A special thanks to Denise Williams, Randy Zirkle, Al Lesutis and Dr. Duval for helping make this event a success!

Thanks to Teresa DeFlitch, Gigi Varlotta (CAPA student), Mandi from the Carnegie Museum of Natural History and the Green Building Alliance for providing an amazing Systems Design Lab focusing on Systems, Building and Climate science for 22 of our 5th-8th grade students today!  This lab introduced students to systems thinking through games and hands on design activities hosted in our Creating Value room.  This opportunity made available through a relationship with The Consortium for Public Education, The Future is Mine Club and the Green Building Alliance.

During the lab, students worked collaboratively and focused on different lens, such as energy; resiliency; well-being; beauty; and accessibility while developing their buildings.  While working; students learned about green building design and how buildings interact with larger forces such as climate change. They walked away with a new way of seeing the world and concrete examples of how they can use what they learned to address issues that are important to them. A special thanks to Mr. Macuga, Ryan Dunmire-Kuftic, Heather Clark, The Consortium for Public Education and Mr. Large for helping make this event a success!

The Future is Mine Club:  School SWAP

March 2017

The Future is Mine Club had come up with a School SWAP project in collaboration with Yough High School’s TFIM.  Through the high school SWAP program, students from Steel Valley’s The Future is Mine and Yough’s The Future is Mine club swapped places and shadowed the other member for the entire day.  

Both teams felt that visiting the other school and following a peers schedule would be a valuable experience.  The officers approached the administration and proposed the idea and they were both on board.  

Today, Feburary 23rd, Yough visited Steel Valley.  Here, ten of Yough’s TFIM members shadowed 15 members of Steel Valley TFIM.  

Steel Valley will send their TFIM students to Yough next week to shadow their TFIM students using the schedules already assigned and following their school rules/policies. 

Through this experience, students hoped to gain:

1. Respect for other schools and cultures
2. Ideas to better their school and community
3. Understanding of how other schools operate 

Our last event will be at the Annual TFIM Conference in April. Here, students will come together and discuss how they can make positive changes within their districts to better effect student learning.  

“I am really excited to go to Yough! I had a great time talking with their students today and showing them around Steel Valley! They were very grateful to have the opportunity to visit SV and I look forward to learning ways to improve our school by visiting Yough next week,” said Angela Martin (SV TFIM Member).

Stand Together’s Dodgeball Game

February 2017

Steel Valley Middle School’s Stand Together group planned and implemented their first ever glow in the dark dodgeball tournament to combat the stigma surrounding mental illness on February 16, 2017.  With over 140 student players and 20 volunteers; the event could not have been more successful!

The teams battled each other in a single elimination tournament style match up that was refereed by high school Stand Together members.  Team Separation Anxiety won the tournament in a best of out 3 final game match against team Autism.  The winners will each receive a gift card sponsored by the Stand Together grant.  Each team decorated t-shirts with their Mental Illness name, facts and resources to seek help.  Additionally, each team created a poster that hung in the hallways leading up to the gym about their mental illness and resources for those who suffer.

Free hot chocolate was served at our Kindness Kafe and wrist bands were given out to participants reminding them of the “Breaking Down Barriers” message Stand Together wants to instill within the school.  “It was a great time,” said Katie Iwaniuk- 8th grade Stand Together member,”everyone had fun and we were able to spread our message while raising awareness.”

Next, Stand Together will be creating a “Breaking Down Barriers” mural in the middle school with the help of the Art department.  Sixty canvas’ will decorate a stairwell with our message of acceptance & community.

A special thanks to Mr. Macuga, Mr. Johnson, Jim Bulger, Donny Packer, Chad Kanz, Erin Noblet, Jillian Braszo, Henry Spencer, Evan Lasek, Alex Ligeros, and Joe Kraft for helping out and/or supporting our event!

Stand Together: Under Construction: Breaking Down Barriers at SVMS

The Future is Mine Club at SVHS visited Allegheny General Hospital

February 2017

Reading about open heart surgery in a textbook is one thing, however experiencing it in person is quite another. On February 3, 2017, six students in The Future is Mine Club at Steel Valley High School visited Allegheny General Hospital to observe the area’s top cardiovascular surgeons in action. The Open Heart Surgery Observation Program is coordinated by the Allegheny General Hospital Gerald McGinnis Cardiovascular Institute.

During this visit, students observed an aortic valve replacement on a 65 year old male. As the surgery was taking place, the program coordinator was in the room with the students explaining what was happening in the operating room below. The surgeon wore a head camera and the students were able to see the details up close within the room as well. In addition, they informed the students on the various careers that were needed to make the surgery possible. The program coordinator went through each individual on the operating floor and listed their job title, how much schooling they received, and their average salary. Following the surgery, students were able to ask any questions they may have had to the actual surgeon, Dr. Bailey, face to face.

“This is a once in a lifetime opportunity for our students,” said The Future is Mine Advisor, Ryan Dunmire-Kuftic, “Allowing them to observe careers in action in a real-life scenario before they are in a post secondary school is really amazing.”

“It was awesome! This was my second observation and they’ve both been completely different and interesting. I’ve learned so much!” Said TFIM member Abbey Caspar.

2016 PIAA  AA Football Champions

January 2017

The Steel Valley Ironmen Football Team has made history! For the first time in district history, the Ironmen are PIAA 2A State Champions. The final score was 49-7, implementing the mercy rule one final time, for a total of 15 games.

During the 2016 season the Iromen outscored it’s first 12 opponents 659-87, Steel Valley Ironmen Football have won the WPIAL Class AA Championship.   This is Steel Valley’s fourth, joining titles won in 1982, ’88 and ’89.  The Steel Valley School District and community are proud of this outstanding accomplishment and wish our Ironmen the best as they move on the PIAA Semi-Finals.

The Steel Valley football team has been selected as the Max Preps #1 small school in the nation.  Representatives from Max Preps and the National Guard will be here to present the trophy to the team on Friday, January 27th in a short ceremony prior to the start of the home boy’s varsity basketball game. (between 7:15 pm – 7:30 pm)   The National Guard will be at the HS during all lunches on Friday, January 27th in order to promote the event.   Information about the Max Prep football rankings can be found below.

MaxPreps Final Small Schools National Football Rankings

1. (last time NR) Steel Valley (Munhall, Pa.), 15-0, 60.0
   Pennsylvania Class 2A champion
2. (2) Trinity Christian Academy (Jacksonville, Fla.), 11-3, 58.7
   Florida Class 3A champion
3. (5) Marion Local (Maria Stein, Ohio), 14-1, 55.0
   Ohio Class VI champion
4. (8) Benedictine (Savannah, Ga.), 15-0, 54.8
   Georgia Class AA champion
5. (19) IC Catholic Prep (Elmhurst, Ill.), 14-0, 53.2
   Illinois Class 3A champion
6. (NR) Archbishop Murphy (Everett, Wash.), 14-0, 53.2
   Washington Class 2A champion
7. (11) Riverside Academy (Reserve, La.), 12-1, 52.3
   Louisiana Division III champion
8. (19) Chaminade-Madonna (Hollywood, Fla.), 9-4, 51.6
   Florida Class 3A runnerup
9. (6) Shelby (N.C.), 16-0, 51.4
   North Carolina Class 2AA champion
10. (22) Jones (Okla.), 15-0, 51.0
    Oklahoma Class 3A champion
11. (NR) Glens Falls (N.Y.), 13-0, 50.9
    New York Class B champion
12. (15) Belfry (Ky.), 14-1, 49.2
    Kentucky Class 3A champion
13. (NR) Fort Wayne Concordia Lutheran (Ind.), 13-2, 48.8
    Indiana Class 3A champion
14. (NR) Appomattox County (Appomattox, Va.), 15-0, 48.6
    Virginia Class 2A champion
15. (1) Oxbridge Academy (West Palm Beach, Fla.), 10-2, 48.3
    Florida Class 3A quarterfinalist
16. (NR) Lamar (Mo.), 14-0, 48.0
    Missouri Class 2 champion
17. (NR) West Deptford (Westville, N.J.), 12-0, 47.8
    New Jersey South II champion
18. (7) Chenango Forks (Binghamton, N.Y.), 12-1, 47.4
    New York Class B runnerup
19. (NR) Mineola (Texas), 14-2, 47.4
    Texas Class 3A-I champion
20. (NR) Pahokee (Fla.), 14-0, 47.3
    Florida Class 1A champion
21. (NR) Pueblo East (Colo.), 13-1, 46.8
    Colorado Class 3A champion
22. (NR) Kemper County (DeKalb, Miss.), 15-1, 46.6
    Mississippi Class 3A champion
23. (NR) Gunter (Texas), 16-0, 46.6
    Texas Class 3A-II champion
24. (3) Maryville (Mo.), 14-1, 46.2
    Missouri Class 3 runnerup
25. (NR) Canton Central Catholic (Ohio), 11-3, 46.0
    Ohio Division V champion

The small schools national rankings are based on the MaxPreps computer rankings. Small schools are considered to be those that play in state enrollment divisions with generally less than 1,000 students.

2016

School’s Student Council and Students Against Destructive Decisions (SADD) Help Needy Children

December 2016

The Steel Valley Student Council and SADD groups worked together for a service project to help collect small toys and hygiene items to send to needy children around the world.  Students and teachers donated a total of 237 items!  Students and teachers who donated will be getting donuts from Dunkin’ Donuts as a small token of thanks.

Haley Senich, Kelsey McCafferty, Ms. Besh, and Alyssa Proof,
from the homeroom that donated the most amount of toys.

Stand Together Training

November 2016

The Allegheny County Office of Behavioral Health has partnered with Steel Valley High School’s The Future is Mine and Middle School students for its “Stand Together” initiative for the second year in a year. The objectives of Stand Together are to decrease negative attitudes and beliefs among adolescents towards peers and adults with mental illness and/or substance use disorders, decrease social distance between adolescents and their peers who have mental illness and/or substance use disorder, and encourage adolescents to make positive change .

Steel Valley chose to bring Stand Together to our school to reduce negative beliefs and attitudes towards youth who have a mental illness in our communities by promoting a healthy, caring atmosphere in our schools. Stigma causes shame and embarrassment for youth and they experience its impact through ostracism, social isolation, depression, suicidal ideation, and self-harm.   Our goal is to support ALL students and community members and bring students together promoting healthy and happy relationships.

On October 26th and November 2nd, 35 TFIM and Middle School students were trained by Ms. Danyelle and Mr. Mike from the Allegheny County of Behavioral Health offices on Stand Together and it’s ideation.  Students were very receptive of the idea and eager to help build a sense of community within the schools. These concepts are founded on the principles of bringing everyone together and being a good person.  We too are trying to ignite a change in our community and what better way to do so than to join forces.

“This was awesome and I learned a lot to help others!” Said seventh grader ” Dacia Hruska.

The next step is students in their respective schools will discuss and plan projects to create the change they wish to see in their buildings. Each school receives $1000 to use to help build community! Students are responsible for planning, budgeting and carry the projects out throughout the year.

Harry Potter Week October 24th – 28th

October 2016

The library sponsored a Harry Potter Festival last week (October 24 – 28). The purpose of our literary festival was to celebrate the books of J. K. Rowling and the world that she so masterfully created with her words! A more general reason was to promote reading for enjoyment and it’s cousin, lifelong reading!

Teachers renamed their classrooms with a Harry Potter place name or establishment name. During the week, a different treasure hunt took place each day. Clues, given on the morning announcements, mentioned Harry Potter characters, creatures, & objects & referred to the Potter room names adopted by many teachers. (The clues were cryptic & both students & teachers had fun!) Students who found “treasure” were invited to choose small gifts from a treasure chest in the library.

During the week, we also read short meaning full quotes from each book on the morning & afternoon announcements.

Students & teachers were dress in costume & had a costume contest on Wednesday the 26th. There was also had a Harry Potter After School Event on Wednesday that 30 students and 10 teachers attended. At this event Mrs. Logan & her students gave a Potions Class Demonstration (awesome!); Mrs. Maddigan, Mrs. Wassell, & Mrs Wright taught students how to write on parchment with pen & ink (a feathered calligraphy pen); students decorated pencil wands made by Sue Wright’s Art Club; people had their pictures taken in our Azkaban Photo Booth; students played Harry Potter board games & colored HP pictures; and, others competed in a Harry Potter inspired Cooking/Baking Contest (the Pumpkin Pasties, Cauldron Cakes, Pita Sorting Hat with Spinach Dip, & Spiced Edible Wizard Wands were delicious). “Master Parchments” were presented to winners of the various contents. Students & teachers said that they had great fun & most mischief was managed!

Selected to Participate in the PMEA District One Honors Choir Festival

October 2016

Steel Valley High School Concert and Honors Choir juniors, Abby Ferson and Alyssa Proof, were selected to participate in the PMEA District One Honors Choir Festival this past weekend. This year the festival was hosted by the Upper St. Clair and North Hills School Districts. For the second year in a row, Abby and Alyssa joined their voices with over 150 other students from 35 different school districts in a five county radius. This two-day festival culminated with a concert on Saturday, October 29 for family and friends at Westminster Presbyterian Church in Upper St. Clair. Congratulations on a job well done

SV Graduate Administrative Assistant for the Pittsburgh Human Resources Association

October 2016

Katherine Miller, a resident of Munhall, PA, and a graduate of Steel Valley Senior High School, was recently appointed administrative assistant for the Pittsburgh Human Resources Association.

Miller is a student at Point Park University in Downtown Pittsburgh pursuing a Bachelor of Science degree in human resource management. She is the daughter of Michael and Christina Miller of Munhall.

“I’m a first-generation college student in my family so I’m really looking forward to graduation. I know my parents are already incredibly proud. All of my hard work has been worth it,” said Miller.

Read the full profile on Miller here:
HR Major Gaining Work Experience in the Field with Pittsburgh Human Resources Association

About Point Park University:

Point Park is a dynamic, urban university with a strong liberal arts tradition. Located in the heart of Downtown Pittsburgh, Point Park enrolls nearly 4,000 students in more than 100 undergraduate, master’s and doctoral programs offered through its School of Arts and Sciences, School of Business, School of Communication and Conservatory of Performing Arts. Its students represent 44 states and 42 countries.

SVMS at Re:new Art Exhibit in Pittsburgh

October 2016

On September 22, 2016; 50 middle school students from grades 5-8 at SVMS attended the Re:new Art Exhibit in Pittsburgh as well as the Exhibit at PPG! Students also got an opportunity to make their own reclaimed material art projects that Mrs. Kristen, Mrs. Dunmire-Kuftic and a few students were able to display in the Middle School! It was a great day!

Westinghouse Science Honors Institute

October 2016

Morgan Farrah , Ally Carr & Shannon Hartnett

Were accepted into the Westinghouse Science Honors Institute:

The Westinghouse Science Honors Institute is a program for high school juniors from Western Pennsylvania and the surrounding communities who demonstrate a strong interest in science and engineering and who are of high scholastic standing.

Westinghouse Science Honors Institute (WSHI) consists of 12 Saturday-morning lectures, from October through March, on selected topics in science and engineering. Students attend WSHI to gain insight into careers in engineering and science. They network with professionals in the “real world,” and interact with students from different schools who also have the same abilities and interests.

A limited number of accepted students will also have the opportunity to take an optional trip to tour Penn State University’s Breazeale nuclear reactor, located at University Park, PA.

http://www.westinghousenuclear.com/About/Community-and-Education/Science-Honors-Institute

SV SADD Brought the Safety Bug to SV

October 2016

SV SADD brought the Safety Bug program to Steel Valley on September 27 to help students understand the dangers of driving while impaired. Student, Morgan Farrah, was one of the students who took a turn behind the wheel.

Homecoming Court 2016

September 2016

The Homecoming festivities will take place all week with themed dress-down days and a door decorating contest.  The homecoming carnival, powder puff game, and bonfire are all scheduled for Thursday and the Homecoming Game is on Fridaynight.  The queen and her court will be announced during halftime of the game.

Prime Time Shots, Inc.

Reganne McMichael, Enonya Green, Bailey Stoken, Kaylee Black, Hannah Kostelnik, Dymond Williams, Angelica Good, Iyana Monje’ Jackson, Tamarrow Thomas, Terryn Lawson

DeWayne Murray Football Player

September 2016

3rd Grade Rocks!

September 2016

Logan Barron, Nolan McConnell, Dominique Ruiz, Adam Keesecker

Park Elementary School’s 3rd grade “Can’t Stop the Feeling” this is going to be a great year!

Steel Valley Summer Camp Goes To A Pirates Game

August 2016

Steel Valley Summer Camp participants had a great time at the Pittsburgh Pirates Game on August 10th! Tickets were donated by Tickets for Kids.  Superintendent Ed Wehrer, teachers and staff members came out to enjoy the evening with the kids, community and family!

Penguins Foundation Scholarships

August 2016

The luncheon “Pens In The Community” held at the “Lexus Club at the Consol Energy Center” was on Tuesday, August 9, 2016. Ryan McCallister won for Steel Valley and was interviewed in the video linked below. He is a 2016 graduate and will be attending Penn State University in the fall majoring in secondary math education.

Steel Valley Graduate Ryan McCallister

SVHS Graduate at the Magic Kingdom

August 2016

“Gillian Brooks, 2016 Steel Valley High School graduate and also voice of the morning announcements at the high school, met the Mad Hatter at a summer trip to the Magic Kingdom.  When he noticed her “Graduation Celebration” pin, he asked to hear her speech.  Gillian explained to him that her part in the graduation ceremony was to recite the Pledge of Allegiance, which she has also done every day as part of her morning announcement duties.  The Mad Hatter then asked to hear her recitation, which she performed in the middle of Fantasyland, for all to hear!  What a wonderful experience for Gillian!  You never know where your past experiences may come into play in your future!”

Steel Valley Graduate is a Certified Fire Training Instructor

June 2016

Tony Zoroya, a graduate of Steel Valley High School and resident of Munhall, recently became a certified as PA state fire training instructor. Zoroya is a transport coordinator for STAT MedEvac. He earned a Bachelor of Science in public administration from Point Park University in May 2016.

He is the son of Ron Zoroya of Munhall, Pa.

When asked about his career goals, Zoroya said: “I have really fallen in love with being a fire instructor so I would like to do that more often. My degree in public administration has opened up a lot of doors in the area of government and public safety so I can see myself there shortly.”

About Point Park University:

Point Park is a dynamic, urban university with a strong liberal arts tradition. Located in the heart of Downtown Pittsburgh, Point Park enrolls nearly 4,000 students in more than 100 undergraduate, master’s and doctoral programs offered through its School of Arts and Sciences, School of Business, School of Communication and Conservatory of Performing Arts. Its students represent 44 states and 42 countries.

Read the full interview with Zoroya here:
Public Administration Online Graduate Becomes a State-Certified Fire Training Instructor

“Remaking Steel Valley: Ironmen Innovation”

June 2016

Steel Valley School District participated in Remake Learning and hosted “Remaking Steel Valley: Ironmen Innovation” Night on May 10, 2016 from 6-8p.m. Offering seventeen sessions, Steel Valley faculty and administration showcased how STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art and Math) has impacted our classrooms.  From the Escape Room run by Mr. Tozzi, to ZipLining hosted by Mr. Hofbauer to Mr. Large; creative thinking and strategy was a must!  From Coding with Mrs. Huber to Robotics with Mrs. Dunmire-Kuftic; students were eager to learn coding and its application.  The simple Math session using M&Ms with Mrs. Ambrozic and creating Aluminum foil ships with Mrs. Pugh was a hit with our younger students!

With over 100 attendees, the event was very successful!  “This event brought our communities together and displayed all of the positive happenings in the district” Said Ryan Dunmire-Kuftic- organizer, “it was great to see families having fun while learning.”

Organizing a Number of Service Projects

June 2016

Student Council members from Steel Valley High School attended the Pittsburgh Pirates game on Thursday, May 26.  “Our Student Council members have worked hard organizing a number of service projects like blood drives and raising funds for St. Jude Children’s Hospital, The March of Dimes, and The Caring Place.  They also organized many social events for our students this year.  This was a nice way to celebrate their hard work.”, said Beth McCallister and Mary Ann Wassel, the chaperones for the field trip.

Stand Together Celebration

May 2016

The Steel Valley Middle School and High School Stand Together teams went to the Heinz History Center to present this year’s projects along with several other schools.  This was Steel Valley’s first time participating in Stand Together, and initiative set forth by the Allegheny County Department of Behavioral Health.  Through this initiative, students at Steel Valley worked together to create awareness on Mental Illness and to promote kindness. “It was a great experience for our students to represent our school at a large scale event,” said advisor, Ryan Dunmire-Kuftic, “the kids worked really hard throughout the year and deserve to be recognized.”

Middle School 6th Grade Field Trip

May 2016

The Steel Valley Middle School 6th graders traveled to Camp Guyasuta.

Here, students learned to work together to accomplish various goals. The day consisted of zip lining whose course was over 13 stories high and 1000 ft long, rock wall climbing, balancing and various obstacle courses.  The students did an excellent job, worked together, and achieved goals through communication.  “I loved this field trip!  It was the best day ever,” said Mark Fulmore.  “We are hoping to continue to visit Camp Guyasuta”, said 6th grade teacher Ryan Dunmire-Kuftic, “The students really shined and worked so well together.”

“Kindness” Week

May 2016

The Steel Valley Middle School Stand Together group completed their “Kindness” Week last week.  As an initiative from the Allegheny County Office of Behavioral Health, Stand Together set forth to bring awareness on Mental Illness and spread the word of kindness through their $1,000 grants monies.

Every Tuesday and Thursday throughout the year, students participated in a Kindness Kafe where they gave out free hot chocolate to all students and spread awareness through messages on the 1Ž4 of the cups.  This 1Ž4 represents the amount of people who are affected by a mental illness.  Students who received a fact were entered into a $10 gift card drawing.

This past week, students participated in dress down days on Wednesday – Friday.  Wednesday, students participated in a Kick-Off assembly where they were greeted by a Kindness Challenge sheet with several tasks for the students to complete!  Congratulations to Makenna Williams on winning the Kindness Challenge.  Through the assembly, Stand Together stressed the importance of being Kind and set the tone for the rest of the weeks activities.

On Thursday, teachers and students participated in a door decorating contest and created canvases during lunch.  They also created Thank You cards for someone who had impacted them positively and a helping change.  Thursday’s dress down theme was Team Sports to promote team concept.    Congratulations to Dr. Fenyus’ homeroom for winning the door decorating contest and a Panera Bread breakfast!  We had a lot of staff/ student participation in the door decorating, as well as the other activities throughout the week and it was very difficult to select a winner!

On Friday, students were encouraged to sit with friends they wouldn’t typically sit with at lunch and partake in our “Selfie with a Stranger” booth.  This went remarkably well.  To tie the week together, the Middle School had a balloon release for Mr. Bill Campbell who has been the pillar of kindness in our communities and schools.  Students were encouraged to write down one thing that happened that week that was kind and one thing they would like to thank Mr. Campbell for prior to releasing their balloons.  Several High School Stand Together students helped with the Middle School events!  “I loved seeing how excited the Middle School kids were,” said Brittany Connors.  “I love Stand Together, “ said 7th grader Katie Iwaniuk, “I can’t wait until next year.”

Thanks Mr. Shaughnessy for having fun with us!

April 2016

It is “No Joke” that Mr. Shaughnessy loves the kids at Park School!

On April Fool’s Day, the 3rd graders decided to play a practical joke on their principal.  All 21 kids told him they earned a reward from Mrs. Callahan’s ELA class. Typically, when they earn a reward the kids get to eat lunch with Mr. Shaugnessy in his office and he makes a positive phone call home!

So on this day he was told 21 kids had to eat lunch with him in his office (which is not a big space, ha) and he had to make 21 positive phone calls.Yikes!

The kids all yelled April Fools as they entered his office! We believe he was relieved, but being the “good sport” he is, he invited all 21 kids to eat lunch with him! What a nice treat!

Thanks Mr. Shaughnessy for having fun with us!

Steel Valley’s The Future is Mine “Steel Valley Alumni Panel”

April 2016

On Wednesday, April 6th, Steel Valley’s The Future is Mine (TFIM) hosted a “Steel Valley Alumni Panel” in the high school auditorium.  TFIM is a club sponsored by The Consortium for Public Education that focuses on career awareness and exploration.

The “Panel” consisted of nine Steel Valley Alumni that have pursued various careers after high school.  There were 2 different types of Engineers, an Entrepreneur and Baseball Instructor, Informatics Nurse, Funeral Director, Attorney, QA Analyst, Strategic Sourcing Specialist and a Client Solutions Advisor.

In Round Robin fashion, panelists were asked a series of questions relating to their current job and their career paths.  A major focus of conversation was what students can be doing in high school to aide in their transition after to high school.

Overall, it was a great success!  “Students were very attentive, asked questions and joined the panelists after the structured questions to ask additional questions,” said Advisor Ryan Dunmire-Kuftic.  “I thought it was beneficial,” said Reganne McMichael, “a few of those careers I didn¹t even know existed.”

Read Across America Week

March 2016

Park School had a fun time celebrating Read Across America Week. We started the week off with Silly Sock Day on Tuesday, Wacky Wednesday, a Trivia Day on Thursday, and Crazy Hat Day on Friday.

For Trivia Day, the kids got a chance to answer 3 Seuss Trivia Questions and put their name in a drawing  for a prize!

Also, every night the kids had  a reading challenge at home to read 15 minutes a night with their families. Their name was also entered in a drawing for a prize!

 To add to the fun, the teachers participated in a Mystery Teacher Reader! Teachers submitted 3 clues about themselves to a classroom, The kids had to guess which teacher was coming in to read to them. The kids were surprised as teachers entered the classrooms yelling,”Surprise, its me!” The kids loved seeing teachers from the past and also loved seeing those teachers they will have in upcoming years! Thanks to all of the teachers who participated!

 The kids in Mrs. Callahan’s ELA class, got the opportunity to dress up like their favorite Seuss Character. The students had to come into class taking on that character’s role. it was fun to watch a student take on a different point of view such as the  “Lorax” & say, “I speak for the trees!”

Fun was had by all as Park School celebrated the joy of Reading!

Madeline Wedig, Lucia Meiss, Susan Graffius, Mason Watson, and Kennedy Doebereiner
Bottom row:  Jacob Anderson, Piper Olack, Tori Stabryla, & Alyssa Weis

“Painting with a Purpose”

March 2016

Steel Valley High School Student Government and SADD organized a field trip and service project during the morning of March 8.  The group traveled to the Painting With a Twist Studio in the Southside and took part in a 2-hour painting session.  The service project was called “Painting with a Purpose”.   The Painting with a Twist Studio owner donated $300 to St. Jude Children’s Hospital.

TFIM Stand Together Group Participated in “Stop the Stigma” Week

March 2016

The Steel Valley The Future is Mine’s Stand Together Group participated in “Stop the Stigma” week the last week of February.  Stand Together is an initiative that inspires and equips youth to take action against stigma associated with mental illness and substance use disorders through Allegheny County’s Office of Behavioral Health.

Through anti-stigma training and service-learning experiences, students aim to reduce negative attitudes, beliefs, and social distance between youth with behavioral health challenges and their peers.  Monday, students decorated 1 out of every 5 lockers representing the 1 out of every 5 people who suffer from a mental illness.  We wanted the students to see that even if your locker was not decorated but your friend has a decorated locker that you are in some way affected by Mental Illness.  Tuesday, students were greeted by messages on their lunch tables regarding certain illnesses.

There was a truth booth set up that students could say how they feel, and they sat with strangers to get to know each other a little better.  On Wednesday, students dressed in Green for a dress down day to support ending Stigma at Steel Valley.  They were all given a green wristband and there was also a door-decorating contest.  Mr. Gress’s homeroom won and will be receiving breakfast in the near future.  On Thursday, students broke a piñata during lunch filled with all of their insecurities and took selfies in our “End the Stigma” booth.

Last, on Friday, students in grades 9-12 attended an assembly hosted by the TFIM Stand Together Group.  Here, Stand Together invited Kiersten to speak.  Kiersten is a 21 year old that is dealing with PTSD and she stressed the message that she is normal and like each of them.  Overall, it was a great assembly.  Mike Gruber from the Allegheny County of Behavioral Health also joined us.

Thomas Jefferson Swap to Steel Valley

February 2016

Today, fourteen Thomas Jefferson High School students came to visit Steel Valley through The Future is Mine School SWAP program.  During their visit, the Thomas Jefferson students shadowed our Steel Valley The Future is Mine members and they were amazed by the amount of technology that Steel Valley had to offer.  They were also impressed by the small class sizes and the ability for students to have more interaction with the teachers. Last, they had mentioned that they liked the various classes we offered at Steel Valley such as Forensics.

At the conclusion of the SWAP High School Principal, Mrs. Lisa Duval, met with the high school students from Thomas Jefferson.  Here, she questioned the students about what they liked, what they thought was interesting or different, and areas that they can improve upon along side of Mrs. Ryan Dunmire – Steel Valley TFIM Advisor.  It was a really conversation by all parties.  Overall, this SWAP was a great success and we are looking forward to continue this project on March 1st when Steel Valley travels to Thomas Jefferson.

Making a Difference

February 2016

The students in Mrs. Callahan’s 3rd grade ELA classes have been reading historical fiction on famous men and women who have made a difference in the lives of others. The students became familiar with the kindness of Abraham Lincoln and the leadership of Jackie Robinson to name a few.

We held many discussions around how we have many good qualities ourselves and how those qualities could make a difference in the lives of others.

The students then participated in an optional yet highly encouraged project where they picked a person they have have made a difference to OR who has made a difference to them. The students got to then choose the format of how to present their project to the class–whether it was through video, pictures, a drawing or even a report. The students creativity shined as they came up with their own  formats as well.–like poems to express their experience.

The students were brilliant as they shared their experiences with making a difference in others. Mrs. Callahan feels lucky to have some exceptional human beings in her ELA classes.

Click on the image or the link below to see Kylie Salopek talking about how she has made a difference in her Grandma’s life.

Grandma’s_Life

Click on the image or the link below to see Kamryn Hutching talking about how her Aunt’s boyfriend has made a difference in her life.

Kamryn’s Aunts Boyfriend

New Semester-length Course in the Science Department

February 2016

The high school is offering a new semester-length course in the science department this year—Forensic Science. It is the application of science to criminal and civil laws. For those students interested in pursing careers in criminal justice or find themselves just plain engrossed with crime dramas such as CSI; this class is for you!

Students in the course complete hands-on labs to investigate areas of study such as how to obtain fingerprints from a crime scene and identify their key characteristics; the affects of speed and direction when performing a blood drop analysis; the use of insect larvae to predict time of death; and dental forensics to name a few.

Students also complete a few full crime investigations along the way which will test their sleuthing skills.

“Escaping the Curse of King Tut” Project

January 2016

Mr. Tozzi, 7th grade History teacher at Steel Valley Middle School, created an innovative and engaging project for his students prior to winter break.  Titled: “Escaping the Curse of King Tut”, the project was based on the following scenario:

On November 4th, 1992, Howard Carter and Lord Carnarvon made one of the greatest archaeological discoveries of all time.  They found the undisturbed tomb of King Tutankhamen.  But after finding all the untouched treasures within the chambers of the tomb a curse seemed to be striking down all those associated with the dig.  All of a sudden the curse seemed to have been lifted…..

Until now:

6-8 students are locked in a room with the decaying mummy of King Tut.  The students have 30 minutes to find the cure for the curse which is locked inside a chest and hidden somewhere in the room.  Students have to work together to search the room for clues, solve riddles, and complete tasks that lead them to the hidden chest and the cure for the curse.

Students loved the assignment and 7th grade student Jessa Ross created an iMovie that encompassed their mission.  “It was a great learning experience for everyone”, said Mr. Tozzi.

Holiday Food Drive at the Middle School

January 2016

The Middle School PTO organized a Holiday Food Drive at Steel Valley Middle School to benefit the Rainbow Kitchen in Homestead.  Students in grades 6-8 were encouraged by their teachers and administrators to contribute to the food drive to help those in need during this holiday season.  Mr. Macuga, middle school principal, offered a dress down incentive day to students by setting a goal of 150 donated items.  Not only did the Middle School reach their goal, they far exceeded it!  Students Anijah Anderson and Jermir Harber donated over 83 can goods and products themselves with the help of their Nana!

It was truly a heartwarming experience for all.  Dymetre Wilson, 6th grade student, was heard saying, “I really love the holidays!  This is what they are all about.”

Pictured above are Anijah Anderson and Jermir Harber with their Nana along with PTO representatives, Mrs. Semenko and Mrs. Demeo.

2015

Holiday Food Drive at the Middle School

January 2015

The Middle School PTO organized a Holiday Food Drive at Steel Valley Middle School to benefit the Rainbow Kitchen in Homestead.  Students in grades 6-8 were encouraged by their teachers and administrators to contribute to the food drive to help those in need during this holiday season.  Mr. Macuga, middle school principal, offered a dress down incentive day to students by setting a goal of 150 donated items.  Not only did the Middle School reach their goal, they far exceeded it!  Students Anijah Anderson and Jermir Harber donated over 83 can goods and products themselves with the help of their Nana!

It was truly a heartwarming experience for all.  Dymetre Wilson, 6th grade student, was heard saying, “I really love the holidays!  This is what they are all about.”

Pictured above are Anijah Anderson and Jermir Harber with their Nana along with PTO representatives, Mrs. Semenko and Mrs. Demeo.

SV SADD Attended YIELD

December 2015

Members of Steel Valley SADD attended YIELD (Youth Involved Education of Legal Drivers)  to hear from motivational speaker and prevention specialist, Cara Filler.  Ms. Filler lost her identical twin sister when she was just 18 years old to a tragic car crash involving excessive speed.  The students were given important advice on how not to become a statistic.  The students also created a public service announcement for adults to warn them about the dangers of “social hosting”.  The message is that adults who provide alcohol or drugs to anyone under 21 years of age face jail time and/or a $2500 fine.

The Power of Social Media

December 2015

Students in Steel Valley High School were in the holiday spirit when they orchestrated a plan to get Vinny Haddad his one and only Christmas wish, an XBOX gaming system and accessories! Headed by Tanner Cannon, Brendan Zuger, and Chris Swenglish; students donated money to make Vinny¹s wish come true. Tanner had the idea and he tweeted out Vinny¹s story that caught the interest of many of his peers. Through the power of social media, students began a collection of monies that exceeded $500.

With that money, Tanner, Brendan and Chris were able to purchase the XBOX gaming system, games, accessories and a few of Vinny¹s favorite things! On December 15,2015 Vinny was surrounded by his friends and sister when receiving the gifts! It could not have been more magical! Vinny and his family were very appreciative and at a loss of words! This story goes to show that you can never underestimate the power of one act of kindness. According to Vinny’s sister, Marissa, “We are so humbled to have this happen to Vinny. The words “thank you” will never be enough!”

This story about Steel Valley students will be airing on WPXI December 17th and or check it out on WPXI’s website.

Steel Valley SADD attended YIELD

December 2015

Members of Steel Valley SADD attended YIELD (Youth Involved Education of Legal Drivers)  to hear from motivational speaker and prevention specialist, Cara Filler.  Ms. Filler lost her identical twin sister when she was just 18 years old to a tragic car crash involving excessive speed.  The students were given important advice on how not to become a statistic.  The students also created a public service announcement for adults to warn them about the dangers of “social hosting”.  The message is that adults who provide alcohol or drugs to anyone under 21 years of age face jail time and/or a $2500 fine.

Certificate Program for Leadership and Ethics

December 2015

Through the University of Pittsburgh’s Certificate Program for Leadership and Ethics (CPLE), 38 students at Steel Valley participated in a Leadership and Ethics training led by university students in the CPLE program and headed by professor, Ron Magnuson on October 6th, 2015.

From there, the University of Pittsburgh students invited Steel Valley to participate in their 1st Leadership and Ethics Case Study Competition. Steel Valley’s The Future is Mine club formed a team of four students: Brittany Connors, Jordyn Ulnicy, Samantha Keane, and Kelsey McCafferty. Brittany, Jordyn, Sam, and Kelsey prepared a formal presentation of the case study and studied the issues the case involved.

On December 10, 2015, the Steel Valley The Future is Mine members traveled to the University of Pittsburgh to compete against five other local schools. Students had the opportunity to present their case, take a stance on the case and defend their stance to three University Professors and three business professionals from the Pittsburgh region.

With the Case presentations ranked by the use of a rubric, Steel Valley came in first place! “Not only did Steel Valley present their case well, they were articulate and well spoken. The were able to defend their stance even under pressure from the Professors and business professionals, said Ryan Dunmire-Kufic, These ladies really represented Steel Valley well. I’m so proud of them!”

STEAM (Science Technology Engineering Art and Math) Project

December 2015

Sixth grade students in Mrs. Dunmire-Kuftic and Mr. Large¹s Math classes focused on a collaborative STEAM (Science Technology Engineering Art and Math) project during the week of Thanksgiving in Math class.  Through this project, students designed a Turkey Catapult out of materials that they

deemed necessary with the overall objective being getting their Turkey to fly the furthest. The turkey needed to “fly” on average 3 meters to meet the criteria of the rubric!  Students calculated the difference of flights and averages.  “It was a great lesson, said Ryan Dunmire-Kuftic, “students were really into it and excited!”   Mr. Large noted that he cannot wait to see what December holds for the 6th grade math students.  ³We have a few ideas in mind,² he said.

Ladies From HS Attended Engineering Day at the University of Pittsburgh

November 2015

A group of young ladies from Steel Valley High School attended Engineering Day at the University of Pittsburgh on November 6.  The event was hosted by the University of Pittsburgh Society of Women Engineers and the objective was to inspire females to explore the field of engineering.  Steel Valley Science Department Chair, Yvette Logan and Math Department Chair, Beth McCallister chaperoned the group as they spent the day on the Pitt campus.  The group worked together to build a model car that was powered with balloons; they heard from a variety of engineering students and from engineers who are currently working in the field; and they had the opportunity to tour the engineering labs to see engineers at work.

Front Row: Cailyn Tomasic, Madison Forney, Samantha Keane-Paul, Ashlee Saracco, Megan Rohde,
Tomaiya Robinson, Eboni Newton     Back Row: Josie Wisniewski, Samantha Sniegocki, Olivia Wellman

TFIM Club – College Knowledge Program at IUP

November 2015

Twenty The Future is Mine Club at Steel Valley High School participated in a College Knowledge program at Indiana University of Pennsylvania on Thursday, November 12, 2015.  The Consortium for Public Education formed this initiative that is designed to help students learn more about the options that are available to them after high school. The Consortium’s target audiences are those high school students who should be thinking about post-secondary education but may not be or who don’t have the information they need to make a good choice. This is the 3rd year of College Knowledge visits.

The Steel Valley TFIM team had the opportunity to speak to college students, professors, and admissions about their post high school hopes and aspirations.  They heard from a variety of schools such as Pitt Greensburg, IUP, The Art Institute and Clarion in round table discussions.  Not only did they network with Post Secondary schools, they had the opportunity to network with their peers in other school districts.  Last, students had the opportunity to tour the IUP campus and eat lunch at the new cafeteria.  “It was a great experience,” said sophomore Kelsey McCafferty, “I now feel like I have a lot of my questions answers and have higher expectations for myself.”

School Wide-Positive Behavior Program at SV Middle School

Novenber 2015

Through the School Wide-Positive Behavior Program at Steel Valley Middle School, students have been benefiting from various activities so far this year.  Mr. Macuga heads the Principal’s 200 club where students are chosen each week by teachers for their Safety, Teamwork, Accountability, and Respect (STAR Program) everyday within the classrooms and hallways.  Once selected, students earn a space on the Principal’s 200 board where their names can be chosen for various prizes throughout the year.

So far, four 8th grade students won (2) passes each to Hundred Acres Manor Haunted House and Ben Votedian (7th grade) won (2) Pittsburgh Steelers tickets to the game on November 8th against the Oakland Raiders.  Mrs. Votedian wrote “Ben and his Dad had a great time!  This was Ben”s first game!  They had great weather and we won!  Thank you so much.”

All tickets were donated by the Tickets for Kids organization.

Section 8 Championships, high percussion, high visual, and high music!

November 2015

The Steel Valley Senior High Marching Band took first place “Open Class Champions” on October 24.  The band scored an 83.65.  The SV Marching Band are Chapters Champions which is the equivalent of winning a WPIAL championship. The students have worked so hard and our school is very proud of them.

Along with its first place award, the band also won specialty awards in the following categories: High Music, High Visual, High General Effect, High Percussion, and High Auxiliary (Color Guard).

We’ve got spirit, yes we do. We’ve got spirit, how ‘bout you?

October 2015

Photos by Bret Nowowiejski, Grade 10

Trail Mix
By Melissa Carle 

We’ve got spirit, yes we do.  We’ve got spirit, how ‘bout you?

If you’re on the receiving end of that cheer from the Steel Valley football student section, look out; because, when it comes to school spirit, this group is second to none.

This is a story about a student section—but not just any student section.  One that has become more like a family whose ties extend beyond the stands and the football field.

Steel Valley is located in Munhall, approximately eight miles from downtown Pittsburgh.  The Ironmen play in the WPIAL Class AA Century Conference, where they are making quite an impact so far this season.

Steel Valley’s student section caught the attention of the media in Week 4, when the Ironmen faced Century Conference rival Seton-LaSalle on the road at Peters Township.  Gary Goga, a high school English teacher, teamed up with the student section to organize what was dubbed a “2 X 2” theme for the game.  This theme brought the student section together with members of the community, parents, teachers, school board members, band members, and cheerleaders.

Mr. Goga organized the group to line up behind the goal post upon arrival at the stadium.  The group then proceeded to their seats in silence, hand-in-hand, in a solemn display of support for the team and community.

Diego Lopez, senior football player and class president, was energized by the student section that night.  “Every big play that was made, you could hear their screams echo.  Even though it was an away game, it felt as if we were in our home stadium,” Lopez said.

Steel Valley defeated Seton-LaSalle, 27-21.

A unique theme is created for each football Friday at Steel Valley specific to that week’s opponent.  Adam Pasay, student section co-leader, plays an integral role in developing themes each week.  “These themes include blackouts, whiteouts, pinkouts, etc.,” Pasay said.

The co-leader’s role does not end there though.  Pasay’s job requires plenty of planning, especially on game days.  “I usually ask the players what they think of their opponent and they give analysis to me,” Pasay said.

The rituals begin just before kickoff.  Pasay explained, “Before kickoff, we lead the ‘I Believe’ chant.  This is a confidence booster for fans and players to get more pumped up.  During halftime and postgame, we all celebrate and greet the football team as they walk off of the field.”

Steel Valley’s cheerleading squad works closely with the student section – the intermediary between the fans and the team.  Senior cheerleader Cassie Brugos said, “The energy we bring to a game is unmatchable.  Our students are on their feet the whole game supporting our players.”

Junior cheerleader Terryn Lawson shares Brugos’s appreciation for the students.  “What sets our student section apart from other schools is that ours is supportive no matter what is going on in the game at the moment.  They participate in our cheers that we do and their enthusiasm is like no other,” Lawson said.

These students will be the first to tell you though, that none of this would be possible without the support of faculty and administrators such as teachers like Goga and Beth McCallister, and Athletic Director Shawn McCallister.

“Mrs. McCallister,” Pasay said, “has done so much for the district in terms of school spirit over my high school tenure.”

Brugos added, “Seeing two teachers take the time out of their Friday night is important.  Young adults need the support of adults to see that they care.  Mrs. McCallister and Mr. Goga truly care for and support our students.”

Diego Lopez shares the admiration.  “Mrs. McCallister and Mr. Goga have amazing ideas all the time for games and anything related to school spirit.  Mrs. McCallister does everything she can and gives the best effort possible for us.  Mr. Goga is the epitome of a great leader.  When I saw the amount of people walking to the student section of the Seton game, I was in awe.  They are both phenomenal people and great role models,” Lopez said.

According to Mrs. McCallister, faculty and administrators find it important to support the student section as an organization, rather than the kids simply attending games on their own.  “When there is structure, the students feel as if the event is more organized and has less chance of becoming chaotic.  Our students typically make good choices for themselves, but we want to be sure the excitement doesn’t get the best of them sometimes where they can get carried away and possibly make a choice that could lead to shedding a negative light on the event.  Also, when there are teachers and administrators involved, the students see that we also have school spirit and school pride and take a genuine interest in them,” McCallister said.

Athletic Director Shawn McCallister sees the student section as a tie that binds the school together.  “Bringing the students together creates a feeling of camaraderie among the student body.  The kids really feel part of the ‘team’ when they are organized as a group”, said McCallister.  “They are able to bring all of that positive energy together to help support their classmates.  It is awesome to watch how the excitement of our student body pumps up our student/athletes and really brings the school community together as a whole.”

What’s going on here is something bigger, something on a higher level than a group of kids simply sitting together in the stands on Friday nights.  There is a resounding theme among this small group of faculty and students that is clearly representative of the Steel Valley community as a whole.

“…Our student section is more than just fans, they’re family,” Terryn Lawson said.  “Steel Valley is more than just a school.  We’re one, a family overall…”

Mr. McCallister observed this, as well.  “It is a wonderful thing for me to watch the students support each other in their endeavors.  We had 96 students participate on our two fan busses to Seton La Salle two weeks ago, which created a ‘family type’ atmosphere,” McCallister said.

Lopez also recognizes the importance of Steel Valley’s spirit.  “School pride is what every school needs to bring students, teachers, and a community together.  It’s what makes a school great and makes people say, ‘I wish I went there.’  I love my school and I will support everyone and everything that goes on in the school…We are a great school with great teachers,” Lopez said.  “I’ve learned so much here and I’m proud to say I go to Steel Valley.”

Mrs. McCallister holds the Steel Valley student body in high regard.  “We have TERRIFIC students here at Steel Valley.  We want the students to WANT to come to school and we want ALL of the students to feel a part of the school community/family,” McCallister said.

“Some people believe that our area is run down and the kids are not worth going the extra mile to help out,” Cassie Brugos concluded.  “I want people to know that we are a family.  We are ‘Ironmen strong’!”

Ironmen strong they are.  It is the Steel Valley family.  In these uncertain times, let it be a lesson to us all.

• Trail Mix [PDF]

Program for Leadership and Ethics

October 2015

On October 6, 2015, thirty-eight students within the Creating Value and The Future is Mine club at Steel Valley High School were trained by students from the University of Pittsburgh’s Certificate Program for Leadership and Ethics. This training is one part of a three part series that the University of Pittsburgh has offered students at Steel Valley.

Professor Ron Magnuson, from the University of Pittsburgh, organized the program and has been a great asset for the clubs. Professor Magnuson had seniors who are currently taking the last course within the certificate program present to our high school students a summary of what Pitt students learned, why high school students should care about leadership & ethics and how students can apply this information in their everyday lives.

Students will now have the choice to further their training and continue on to phases 2 and 3. Within these phases, students will work alongside of the University of Pittsburgh’s students in completing Ethical Case Studies.

“The students were very engaged and learned a great deal,” said TFIM and Creating Value Advisor, Ryan Dunmire-Kuftic. “We look forward to the next stages of this project.”

SV chosen by National SADD to participate in a new student-led initiative

September 2015

Senior Class Officers for the Class of 2016

September 2015

The Senior Class Officers for the Class of 2016 are Diego Lopez (President), Ryan McCallister (Vice President), Gillian Brooks (Secretary), and Logan Blazevich (Treasurer).  The officers will help to plan the senior class activities such as the snow tubing trip and senior breakfast.  They will decide the class song, class motto, and class flower as well as plan post-graduation reunions.  Diego will also deliver a speech to his classmates during the commencement ceremony in June.

A New Planetarium

September 2015

Steel Valley has recently invested in updating the district’s planetarium, adding a breath of fresh air to the program and bringing it into the digital future.  Our district has always had a very well loved program based around an analog planetarium that was installed when the building was constructed in the 70’s.  This has always given our students the motivation and engagement to practice and learn their love of Astronomy and other Earth Sciences.  The newest addition is a completely digital machine, providing a much clearer and brighter view of the night sky, while also opening the door to limitless learning possibilities that did not exist with the old setup.   The students will be able to not only build a strong foundation, but will also have the ability to construct a deeper depth of knowledge due to the technologies the new machine offers.  Our current program offers students two options for using the new planetarium in our high school Earth courses and the newest addition, Honors Space Science.   Steel Valley, once again, has propelled themselves into the front of the pack in ensuring that their students are given the very best technology to learn science.

Steel Valley’s Youngest Release Butterflies

June 2015

Steel Valley’s kindergarten students at the District’s Franklin Primary Center recently release their Painted Lady Butterflies. Students received them as caterpillars, watched them grow, change to their chrysalis, and grow into butterflies.

Hummingbird Robotics Kit

June 2015

Grandparents Celebrated at Park Elementary School

June 2015

Franklin Primary Students Hold Another Successful “Q & U” Wedding!

May 2015

Kindergarteners at Steel Valley’s Franklin Primary Center enjoyed learning about the relationship of the letters “Q & U” through a wedding ceremony held on May 8 in the school gym.

Each year, the wedding is held to teach students the relationship between the letters “Q” and “U.” During the event, a bride and groom are selected for the roles of “Q” and “U.”  This year, the letter Q was represented by Jazmine Butler and Letter U by Marcus Garcia.

The ceremony provides a memorable event that helps students remember the sound made when Q and U are joined together. Girls were dressed in pretty dresses, crowns/tiaras, gloves and fancy shoes; and boys were dressed in their best attire and were provided a tie from the District featuring a “qu!”

A reception followed with the cutting of a wedding cake, dancing the Hokey Pokey, Cha Cha Slide and Chicken Dancealong with a final send-off of Q&U on the playground with all students blowing bubbles and Q&U leaving in a li

Steel Valley Students Help Clean Up Frick Park in Honor of Earth Day

May 2015

Fifth Grade students from Steel Valley’s Barrett Elementary School visited Frick Park to help remove park debris as well as clean out birdhouses.

“We had a nice day and the kids did a great job!”  said 5th Grade Teacher Kate Pisula.

“National Kick Butts Day”

April 2015

Steel Valley High School SADD (Students Against Destructive Decisions) members participated in “National Kick Butts Day” on March 18 by sponsoring an information table during lunch periods.

The campaign for the event was ‘I’m Not a Replacement” referring to the fact that big tobacco companies use teenagers as replacement customers for those they lose due to death caused by the effects of smoking said SADD Advisor and Steel Valley Teacher Beth McCallister.

Students made signs that said, “I’m Not a Replacement, I’m a (fill in the blank)”.  For example, senior student Kristen Moten wrote, “I’m Not a Replacement, I’m a Nittany Lion” since she will be a freshman at Penn State this fall.  The students then posted “selfies” with their signs to the Steel Valley SADD Twitter page.

Steel Valley Students Enjoy Day-Long SWAP with Chartiers-Houston

April 2015

Steel Valley School District’s TFIM members came up with the “School SWAP” project in collaboration with Chartiers- Houston High School’s TFIM group back in December. Through this project, students from each district swap places and shadow one another for an entire day. Both teams felt that visiting one another’s school and following their schedules would be a valuable experience.

Through this experience, students hope to gain respect for other schools and cultures; ideas to better their school and community; and an understanding of how other schools operate.

SV Donated  to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital

March 2015

SV has donated more than $52,000 to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.  Steel Valley Middle School and 4th & 5th grade students from Park and Barrett Elementary participated in the 2014-2015 Math-A-Thon benefiting St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital and raised $2,917.22. Teachers and staff contributed $1,155 for “Jeans Days” and high school students raised $74 on “Dress Down” days.

Students in Pilot Classrooms Using iPads

February 2015

2014

High School Student Art Projects

February 2014

High school art students create exceptional artwork using various types of media. Ceramics I students explore the 3D properties of clay through various hand-building techniques while Drawing I and Advanced Portfolio students use their skills to create interesting 2D designs.