Inside This Issue

Vol. 13, No. 4 - May 7, 2012

THE OFFICIAL BETHEL PARK MUNICIPAL & S CHOOL DISTRICT NEWSLETTER

Presidential Candidate Visits Community Center...See pg. 3.

ummer Fun at S mp! Day Ca e For mor , rmation info 8! . 24 & 2 see pgs

Inside This Issue . . .

Page Page MUNICIPAL NEWS RECREATION & LEISURE SERVICES Memorial Day Events ...... 3 PROGRAMS & ACTIVITIES begin on ...... 15 EMS Subscription Drive ...... 4 Youth Swim Lessons, ages 3 & up ...... 17 Summer Library Programs ...... 5 Babysitting, ages 11 - 16 ...... 19 BPVFC Accepts Younger Volunteers ...... 8 Kids Theater Camps, ages 7 - 10 ...... 19 Police Officers Retire ...... 10 Dance Mix, ages 12 - 18 ...... 19 Block Party Permit Information ...... 11 Fencing – Foil and Epee, ages 8 & up ...... 20 Rabies Clinic ...... 11 Driver’s Education, ages 15 & up ...... 20 Summer Fun Camp, ages 11 - 14 ...... 24 SCHOOL NEWS Summer Day Camp, ages 6 - 10 ...... 28 BPSD Cafeterias Earn 62 Diamonds from ACHD ...... 39 Clyde Qualk Named 2013 PA Teacher of the Year NEW! NEW! NEW! Semifinalist ...... 41 Safari Parti Art Camp, ages 3 - 13 ...... 19 New BPHS Dedicated on February 18 ...... 41 “The Case of the Missing Painting” Art Camp, ages 5 - 11 ....19 Memorial Students Use iPads to Create “Pretty as a Princess & Handsome as a Prince” Autobiographical Presentations ...... 43 Art Camp ...... 19 Washington and Penn Students Participate in Chess Camp, ages 6 - 12 ...... 19 Marathon Program ...... 45 Adult Co-ed Volleyball, ages 18 & over ...... 31 IMS Students Bring Smiles to Soldiers ...... 45 BPHS English Students Take Virtual Field Trip to Study Shakespeare ...... 47 96 BPHS Students Inducted into National Honor Society ...... 48 www.bpsd.org www.bethelpark.net Page 39

Board of School Directors School District Contact Information

INFORMATION ...... 833-5000 David Donna Information Line ...... 854-8407 Cook Connie Amaditz President Ruhl (Call to hear important district news and school 835-1701 delay/cancellation information) 833-6191 835-7845 Central Administration 301 Church Road, Bethel Park 15102

Cindy Jim Russ Nancy Aloi Rose, Superintendent ...... 854-8402 Buckley Means Spicuzza Matthew Howard, Assistant to the Superintendent ...... 854-8425 Leonard Corazzi, 835-6037 301-1065 835-9270 Dir. of Finance and Operations ...... 854-8425 Director of Human Resources ...... 854-8404 Janet O’Rourke, Director of Secondary Education ...... 854-8420 Idessa Hricisak, Director of Special Services ...... 854-8410 Lori Sutton, Assistant Director of Special Services ...... 854-8410 Tim Dick Ronald Reyer, Director of Technology Services ...... 854-8418 Campbell Rose Ronald Scott Ziehler, Transportation Director ...... 854-8414 Vice President Sustich 418-9197 Brandon Womer, Director of Facilities and Services ..854-8615 835-9166 831-1809 Dan Elder, Assoc. Director of Facilities & Services ...... 854-8604 Joe Consolmagno, Director of Food Services ...... 854-8754 Vicki Flotta, Director of Public Relations ...... 854-8438 Amy Scheuneman, Athletic Director ...... 854-8548 Daycare Bethel Park School Bethel Park High School Transportation Cafeterias Earn 309 Church Road, Bethel Park 15102 Changes For The 62 Diamond Awards Dr. Zeb Jansante, Principal ...... 854-8581 Sheryl Graff, Assistant Principal ...... 854-8581 2012-2013 School Year From The Jay Johnson, Assistant Principal ...... 854-8581 Jerry Roman, Transition Principal ...... 854-8581 Parents of young children are reminded that Allegheny County Health Brian Lenosky, beginning with the 2012-2013 school year, the Principal/Director of Cyber/Alt. Learning Options ...... 854-8584 Bethel Park School District will provide Department transportation for Bethel Park elementary Guidance Office ...... 854-8597 students only to daycare centers that are located The Allegheny County Health Department recently Health Office ...... 854-8550 within the attendance zone of the elementary concluded its second and final inspections of Bethel Attendance Office ...... 854-8572 school in which the student attends. Park School District cafeterias for the 2011-2012 school Media Center ...... 854-8560 All daycare bus runs are based on the year and awarded 62 Diamond Awards. Records Office ...... 854-8595 current attendance zones of each elementary All Bethel Park cafeterias were awarded Diamonds, Student Activities ...... 854-8514 school. The District will make every attempt to which are the highest awards given by the Health Athletic Office ...... 854-8548 provide transportation to at least one outside Department, and are given only to those facilities that daycare option per elementary building. demonstrate exceptional food handling and sanitation Independence 7-8 Middle School Additionally, before and after school programs practices. Receiving awards were Neil Armstrong Middle 2807 Bethel Church Road, Bethel Park 15102 will be provided by Lois Johnson at all Bethel David Muench, Park Elementary Schools. School (11 Diamonds), Memorial Elementary School (9 Principal ...... 854-8677 It is estimated that this plan will save the Diamonds), Franklin Elementary School (8 Diamonds), George Spalaris, Assistant Principal ...... 854-8522 District between $30,000 and $40,000 annually. Independence Middle School (8 Diamonds), Bethel Parents whose children currently attend a Park High School (8 Diamonds), Penn Elementary Neil Armstrong 5-6 Middle School daycare center that is outside of the child’s School (7 Diamonds), Washington Elementary School 5800 Murray Avenue, Bethel Park 15102 elementary school attendance zone will need to (6 Diamonds) and Lincoln Elementary School (5 Michael Brookie, Principal ...... 854-8751 make alternate transportation arrangements for Diamonds). Robert Garvey, Assistant Principal ...... 854-8756 the 2012-2013 school year. Metz Culinary Management provides food services Joe Consolmagno Daycare centers within the Franklin for the Bethel Park School District. Abraham Lincoln Elementary attendance zone include Family Child Care is the district’s Food Service Director. (Kings School Road), Lois Johnson (Brightwood 1524 Hamilton Road, Pittsburgh 15234 Road) and Lois Johnson (Franklin Elementary Dr. Dorothy Stark, School). We’re on the Web! Dir. of Elementary Education/Principal ...... 854-8618 Daycare centers within the Lincoln Benjamin Franklin Elementary attendance zone include Brass Ring (Wagner Check us out at www.bpsd.org ! Drive), Lois Johnson (Lincoln Elementary 5400 Florida Avenue, Bethel Park 15102 School), Tendercare (Library Road) and Dr. Shirley Dickinson, Principal ...... 854-8741 Tutortime (Baptist Road). The Bethel Park School District web site Daycare centers within the Memorial features updated information about school Bethel Memorial Elementary attendance zone include Bethel Presbyterian district happenings and recognitions. Our 3301 South Park Road, Bethel Park 15102 Church (Bethel Church Road—accepts only individual school pages feature more localized kindergarten students), Lois Johnson (Memorial Eric Chalus, Principal ...... 854-8506 Elementary School) and Christ United Methodist information as well as lots of photos of student Church (Highland Road). happenings. George Washington Elementary Daycare centers within the Washington 515 Clifton Road, Bethel Park 15102 attendance zone include Lois Johnson The Latest News pages generally feature more Fred Pearson, Principal ...... 854-8546 (Washington Elementary School) and Kindercare photos about the stories you will read in this (Clifton Road). William Penn Elementary Daycare centers within the Penn publication, so we encourage you to visit! attendance 110 Woodlet Lane, Bethel Park 15102 zone include Kindercare (Clifton Eric Chalus and Fred Pearson, Road), Lois Johnson (Penn Elementary School) Visit our site often for the latest in Bethel Park Co-Principals ...... 854-8522 and First Bethel United Methodist Church School District news. (Library Road). VISIT US ONLINE @ www.bpsd.org

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ADMINISTRATION

A Message From… Ms. Janet O’Rourke and Dr. Dorothy Stark Mr. Lenosky’s position at the High School has will assume responsibilities for K-12 instruction. been filled by former William Penn Principal, Mr. NANCY ALOI ROSE Former Neil Armstrong Principal Ms. O’Rourke Jay Johnson . Long-time BPHS Assistant Principal Superintendent has been named Director of Secondary Education, Jerry Roman retired in November, and the District focusing on grades 5-12. She will be based at will not fill his position. The high school Central Office, where she will to continue to administrative team now includes Dr. Zeb It is my pleasure advance our secondary education initiatives. Jansante as Principal, and Mrs. Sheryl Graff and to announce a recent Lincoln Principal, Dr. Dorothy Stark , has accepted Mr. Johnson as Assistant Principals. administrative the added responsibility of Director of Elementary Memorial Principal Mr. Eric Chalus and realignment that has Education (K-4) in addition to her responsibilities Washington Principal Mr. Fred Pearson were taken place in the as Principal. These two new positions will allow the given additional responsibilities to serve as Co- District over the past district to provide a strong focus on the curriculum, Principals at William Penn in addition to their few months. In light of instruction, and assessment goals of the district. responsibilities at Memorial and Washington. a number of Neil Armstrong Assistant Principal, Mr. We are extremely pleased, not only with the impending directives Michael Brookie , has been promoted to Principal recent administrative realignments, but also with from the Pennsylvania at NAMS, replacing Ms. O’Rourke . NAMS Fifth the fact that we were able to fill all of these Department of Grade Teacher, Mr. Robert Garvey , joined the positions with current Bethel Park School District Education, changes in administrative ranks as the NAMS Assistant staff. Our veteran team has been working together legislation, and unprecedented economic Principal. collaboratively to advance the educational goals of challenges facing PA public schools, the Bethel In another exciting development, BPHS Assistant our District for several years with much success. Park School District made a decision to Principal, Mr. Brian Lenosky was named to the We look forward to that continued spirit of strategically place strong leaders in a number of newly created position of Director/Principal of Cyber teamwork and cooperation to keep the District key positions, while saving significant tax dollars. and Alternative Learning Programs. The position will moving forward during this exciting period of Rather than fill the position of Assistant enable the District to begin to offer full and part-time change and growth. Superintendent, the responsibilities are now cyber and distance learning options to BPSD shared among various administrators. Mr. Matt students, as well as students from other school The administrative realignment, along with Howard , Assistant to the Superintendent for districts, through the BP Online Academy. The streamlining various support positions at the new Finance and Operations, will assume all of the non- Academy will provide a variety of customized options high school, will save the School District instructional responsibilities formerly assigned to to students whose needs aren’t fully met in the approximately $400,000 annually! the Assistant Superintendent. traditional brick and mortar school setting.

A Message From… Additionally, if you are a Bethel Park homeowner who has not completed a Homestead/Farmstead application, we encourage you to do so. Homeowners DONNA COOK who completed an application will see their market value on their property reduced School Board President by $15,000, which reduces their Allegheny County tax bills only. March 1 was the deadline to apply for a 2012 exclusion, but if you complete the application, you will Effective January 1, 2012 the Bethel Park be eligible to receive the exclusion beginning in 2013. If you have already filled School District has contracted with Jordan Tax out an application, you need not do so again. Service to provide tax collection services. You can On a lighter note, it is hard to believe another school year is rapidly coming contact Jordan at 412-835-5243 or go to to a close. We have had a very successful year, with our students excelling in the classrooms and on the athletic fields. I encourage you to read about some of their http://jordantax.com for more information. Chronicles However, if you are paying your final 2011 recent accomplishments in this issue of . earned income tax or the final installment of your 2011 real estate taxes, they are I also want to take this opportunity to congratulate the seniors who comprise due to Centax, not Jordan. the Bethel Park High School Class of 2012, as well as their families. Best wishes I realize this might be a bit confusing, but we made the change to Jordan for to all of you as you begin a new and exciting chapter in your lives. We enjoyed several reasons, including the fact that the Municipality is also using Jordan, and having you as students and wish you well in your future endeavors. we felt it was more convenient for our residents to deal with only one tax collection company. Get on the E-Newsletter Mailing List School District Tax Bills for the 2012-2013 school year will be sent in July. I encourage you to take a close look at your bill because you will have the It’s never too late to put your email address on the Bethel Park School District’s E-Mail Newsletter mailing list! opportunity to receive a 2% discount on your tax bill if you pay it before a certain If you would like to receive periodic updates of Bethel Park school district date, which will be determined once the tax bills are finalized. news, events and recognitions, then the E-Newsletter is for you! All Bethel Park parents who included an email address on their child’s Please note, if you have recently paid off your mortgage and your real estate emergency contact form that was distributed at the beginning of the school year taxes were previously paid by your mortgage company from an escrow account, are now receiving this publication via Alert Now. you need to contact Allegheny County Treasurer John Weinstein’s office at 412- If you are a Bethel Park parent who is not receiving the E-Newsletter via Alert Now, please contact the building secretaries in your children’s schools and ask 350-4100 and tell them to now send your tax bill directly to you instead of your them to add your email address to your children’s primary contact information so mortgage company. You should also contact Jordan to inform them of this you can also receive school-specific emails. Please note, the student data base development as well. Do not rely on your mortgage company to inform the County is set up to only accept one email address at this time. If you are not a Bethel Park parent or if you have additional email addresses or Jordan on your behalf. They will not do that, and it will be your responsibility to you would like to have added to the E-Newsletter mailing list, please send an email pay your taxes on time, regardless of where the bill was sent. Please make sure message to Vicki Flotta at [email protected] and we’ll add your email address ASAP. your tax bills are sent to you and not your mortgage company once your mortgage Thank you for your interest in the Bethel Park E-Newsletter. is paid off to avoid paying any penalties on your taxes.

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Mr. Qualk Named A PA Teacher Recent School Board Presentation Of The Year Semi-Finalist At its February 23 Meeting, the Bethel Park Bethel Park High School Science Teacher Clyde Qualk has Board of School Directors been named a Semi-Finalist for the 2013 Pennsylvania Teacher of donated the book, Wonder the Year. Struck, by Brian Seleznick to He will find out in May if he is one of the 12 Finalists to be the Memorial Elementary recognized in the fall by the Pennsylvania Chapter of the National School Library, in memory of State Teacher of the Year and the Pennsylvania Department of John K. Chalus, Sr., father of Education. Memorial Elementary Mr. Qualk is the fifth Bethel Park Teacher to advance to the Principal Eric Chalus . Semifinalist level since 2008. He joins Bethel Park High School Presenting the book to English Teacher Christopher Jack , a 2012 Finalist; William Penn Mr. Chalus was Bethel Park Fourth Grade Teacher Kathryn Kasten , a 2011 Semi-Finalist; School Board President BPHS English Teacher Charles Youngs , a 2009 Finalist, and Donna Cook . Cindy Buckley retired Penn Kindergarten Teacher , a 2008 Semi- Eric Chalus (left) and Donna Cook (right) Clyde Qualk Finalist.

NEW BETHEL PARK HIGH SCHOOL DEDICATED ON FEBRUARY 18 The Bethel Park School District held a Dedication Ceremony and Community Open House to officially open the new Bethel Park High School on Saturday, February 18. Bethel Park High School Principal Dr. Zeb Jansante presided over a Ribbon Cutting Ceremony in the auditorium that began a day which also featured a Dedication Ceremony in the lobby to unveil a plaque dedicating the new Bethel Park High School to the memory of former Superintendent Dr. Thomas A. Knight . Addressing the audience at the Dedication Ceremony were Superintendent Nancy Aloi Rose , Architect Dick Fox , School Board President Donna Cook , Project Manager David Disque and PACS Vice President Rebecca Wallace . Members of the 171st Pennsylvania Air National Guard conducted a Flag Raising Ceremony using new United States and Pennsylvania flags that were donated by State Representative John Maher . Bethel Park High School sophomore Alexandra Meyer presided over the Time Capsule Burying Ceremony. The time capsule contained a myriad of items, including several photos and mementos from the old high school and will be opened in February 2062. Attendees had the opportunity to enjoy performances by Bethel Park High School Nancy Knight, widow of former vocalists and musicians, the Drum Line and members of the Drama Club, who presented Superintendent Thomas A. Knight, addressed "Scenes, Songs and Monologues" in the Little Theater. the crowd after unveiling a plaque in the BPHS Principal Dr. Zeb Jansante school lobby, which dedicates the new school presided over the dedication and Art students had their work on exhibit and attendees at the Open House had the to the memory of Dr. Knight. ribbon cutting ceremony to opportunity to cast their vote for the People’s Choice Awards. Senior Lizzie Nolin captured officially open the new Bethel Park First Place for “Charcoal Hands” and Second Place for “Military Man.” Senior Audrey High School. Miller earned Third Place for “Audrey Hepburn.” National Honor Society students were stationed throughout the building to provide information to those who took self-guided tours. Refreshments were served in the cafeteria, coordinated by Metz Culinary Management, the district's food service provider. Student and Booster Groups set up tables in the cafeteria to sell BP merchandise. The District estimates between 4,000 and 5,000 people visited the new high school, which opened on January 30, 2012. Those who were not able to attend or did not get a Dedication Program can download one at http://www.bpsd.org/Downloads/dedication%20program2.pdf .

Past and present School Board members joined district administrators and BPHS students Angelina Hernley, Rebecca Wallace, Taylor Connors and Bethel Park High School Senior Master Sergeant Doug Eggert and sophomore Alexandra Meyer Lieutenant Chris Preffer of the 171st Air Meghan Minton in cutting the ribbon to worked with High School Refueling Wing of the Pennsylvania Air Secretary Judy Daley to National Guard conducted the flag officially open the new coordinate the items that were raising ceremony using new United Bethel Park High included in the Time Capsule, States and Pennsylvania flags donated by School. which will be opened in State Representative John Mahr. February 2062.

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This Year’s Battle Of The Fifth Graders Create NEIL Books Was Great Fun! Biome Murals Fifth graders on Team Ranger did a terrific job creating Five Neil Armstrong life-size biome murals in the hallways outside their classrooms. Musicians To Play In The students worked in small groups to research the habitats of life in the swamp, Elementary District Band rainforest, ocean and savannah. They studied all of the living creatures in those (Left to right): biomes--herbivores, Jacob Opie, omnivores and carnivores-- Katelyn and had to connect the Gobbie, creatures via the food chain. Jacob They spent a great deal of Cunningham, time using their artistic talents Christian to create life-size birds, fish, Stiefvater giraffes, elephants, leopards and Tyler and feather-covered ostriches Petrossi. The Alliteration Aliens were out of this world, winning this year’s NAMS Battle of the Books. that were proudly displayed on Diana Bruggeman stands the murals. by the one-toed sloth she Five Neil Armstrong Middle School musicians were This year, 17 teams participated in the 14th Annual made for her biome of the selected to perform in the Pennsylvania Music Battle of the Books. rainforest. Educators Association’s Elementary District Band Fest Earning First Place were the Alliteration Aliens (Jessie West, which was held in May at Shaler High School. Scarlett, Aubree Stewart, Grace Evans, Casey Mack Representing Bethel Park in this event were sixth and Veronica Johns). graders Jacob Cunningham (percussion), Katelyn Second Place were the Dukes of Duct Tape (Connor Gobbie (clarinet), Jacob Opie (baritone), Tyler Wholey, Jake Cunningham, Andrew Davis, Evan FRANKLIN Petrossi (percussion) and Christian Stiefvater Aronhalt, Matthew Nestler and Garrett Hoffman). (trombone). Third Place were Wild About Reading (Melissa The students are taught by Neil Armstrong Middle Szabo, Sabrina Tatalias, Rachel Gilliam, Emily Clarvit Students Create Posters School Instrumental Music Teachers Rachel Skilone and Amber Schnupp). and Eric Lauver . Fourth Place were Flaming Five (James Berthoud, For No Name Anthony Lucchitti, Emily Cowser, Michaella Crum and William Martin-Farmer). Calling Week Congratulations to everybody who participated and to Librarian Mrs. Walko for doing another great job of Students Participate In coordinating this year's event! Here is a sampling of Healthy Foods Taste Tests the many great poster entries in this year’s Neil Armstrong Middle School students had an Students Learn About No Name opportunity to Calling Poster participate in Careers From Contest. some healthy taste tests this school year, Classmates’ Parents thanks to a Fuel Up to Play 60 Sixth graders on Team Eclipse conducted career No Name-Calling Week was the week of January Grant that was research as part of a reading class assignment and 23-27 and the Franklin staff worked together to provide designed to supplemented their research by attending live presentations different activities, class meetings and discussions promote physical by parents of their classmates. centered on the topic--in an effort to make Bully activity and Parents generously gave of their time to speak to Prevention the school's priority for student safety. healthy eating. the students about what they do. They talked about the The theme of the week was "No Sticks. No Stones" Besides educational preparation needed for their jobs, what and the highlight of the week was a Family Poster participating in a subjects in school Contest that was done in coordination with the Franklin walking program (Left to right): fifth graders Holly they needed to be PTO. Students and their families were encouraged to during lunch, Troesch and Grace Frank try a healthy successful, what create a poster depicting the "No Sticks. No Stones" students also strawberry/banana fruit smoothie! they like best about theme. participated in their jobs and exactly Franklin families got behind the contest, submitting three taste tests during their lunch periods. what they do on a 180 entries! It was a difficult decision for the judges, The first one involved kiwi; the second, granola; and day to day basis. because all of the posters were terrific, but a winner and the third and final taste test was strawberry/banana fruit Following the at least one honorable mention were selected for each smoothies, made by the students in the Fuel Up to Play 60 presentations, the room. Winners received a t-shirt, certificate, Bullying after school club, with the help of Metz Culinary students had an Stops Here wristband and a No Name Calling pin. Management Corporate Chef Doug Morgan . opportunity to ask Honorable Mentions received certificates, wrist bands Students sampled the smoothies during lunch and then questions to find out and pins. Every family received wristbands. completed a brief survey, indicating whether or not they more about whether Congratulations to the following Winners: Henry or not this would be a Casey Lentz was proud to have his Gaston, Zander Macartie, Bryce Clancy, Alessia liked them. father, David, speak to his Additionally, because March was National Nutrition field of interest for Kubrick, Novena Ferency, Ethan Culbertson, Megan them. classmates about his career as a Harris, Katerina Velisaris, Lily Gaston, Brianna Month, the students learned how to make quick, easy and pharmacist. nutritious pizza snacks using bagels or tortillas, pizza sauce Some of the Hayes, Sadie Borandi, Trinity Ferency, Ash Carter, and cheese for a healthy after school treat. careers the students Alyssa Sholder and T yler Simpson. Thanks to NAMS parent and registered dietitian were exposed to Congratulations to the following Honorable Jessica Magnu , who not only worked hard to obtain the include pharmacy, law enforcement, carpentry, nursing, Mentions: Samuel Highfield, Carter Arabia, Anthony Fuel Up to Play 60 grant for NAMS, but also for her efforts information technology and figure skating. Zaborosky, Charles Metzler, Coby Goltz, Xavier working with the students to make the taste tests a success Reynolds, Sean Eckert, Brady Dodd, David Jakel, and to teach the students the importance of healthy eating. Isabella Comfort, Robbie Abraham, Dimitri Geronimos, Ben Rutherford, Nathan Caruso, Megan Malecki, Alyssa Pollice, Abby Contino, Nicholas Willman and Al yssa Arnold.

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Beginning Band Night Fourth Graders Decorate Students Celebrate Was A Blast Sidewalks For Read Across America Day Franklin instrumental music students had a chance to With Irish Storytelling showcase what they've learned so far this school year at St. Patrick’s Day Beginning Band Night. The program was set up to be an "informance," Franklin Fourth meaning that parents sat next to their young musicians to Grade students used see what they are learning, pastel chalks to how they've been learning it, decorate the and what they'll be learning in sidewalk outside the the future. school's entrance The band performed with St. Patrick's Day breathing exercises, played designs, such as songs on their mouthpieces shamrocks, and gave parents a sneak leprechauns, peek preview of the rainbows and pots of upcoming Spring Concert. gold! It was easy to have a happy St. The Franklin Band is They did a great Patrick’s Day, thanks to the directed by Eric Lauver and job! beautiful chalk designs created assistant director Katie They are taught by Franklin fourth graders. Johnson . by Art Teacher The students enjoyed the festivities in the library, thanks to Kristen Ritchie . the talents of Irish storyteller Fiona.

Having fun doing the Fire Memorial students celebrated Read Across America Day Breathing Exercise at by participating in a program presented by Irish Storyteller Fiona Beginning Band Night were Mary May Tyler Simpson (left) and Ben (portrayed by Memorial parent ). Students were Opie (right). greeted as they arrived in school with Irish music, fiddled by MEMORIAL Mrs. May's husband, Charles. Students enjoyed visiting the library to participate in Fiona's program that incorporated reading, storytelling and Clemente Assembly Kicks dancing! It was a great way to celebrate reading! Second Graders Create Also, Student Council students from Independence Middle Off Black History Month School visited to serve as positive reading role models and read Powerpoint Campaign in small groups with the younger students. Thank you, IMS students, for sharing your love of reading! Presentations To Be As part of the celebration, Librarian Cathy Oczkowski asked the students to keep track of how many minutes they Principal For A Day read over a two and a half week period, and the students read an amazing 55,523 minutes! Second Graders in Mrs. Schall's room hit the campaign trail- The program was coordinated by the Memorial PTA. -not to be elected President of the United States, but to be elected Special thanks go to parents Mary May and Julie McGough Memorial Principal for a Day! for a great day! The students put together a list of campaign promises they would enact, should they be elected Principal for a Day and then created three-slide PowerPoint presentations that they shared with their classmates and their families. Students Use iPads To Create “All About Me” Presentations Memorial Principal Eric Chalus Students in Mrs. Spell's classes took advantage of congratulates Joining Gregory Gibson Kenney as Roberto Clemente Matthew Kurtz for iPad technology to create beautiful "All About Me" are these Franklin students (left to right): Ethan winning the class presentations! Donovan, Hannah Fleming, Sarah Gilliam and Ben election to be The students brought in photos from their life and Rutherford. Principal for a Day. used them as a visual for the "All About Me" stories they wrote and recorded. Their presentations not only talked about their To kick off Black History Month in February, Franklin families and their pets, but they also included some fun students learned about someone who made his mark in facts about themselves, including their favorite foods, Pittsburgh sports history—the late Pittsburgh Pirate Hall of things to do and subjects in school. Fame Right Fielder Roberto Clemente —thanks to a re- Gregory Gibson Kenney Some of the campaign promises included the expected: "no The students shared their presentations with several creation by Bethel Park resident , Memorial classrooms, and each presentation included a who brought the legendary athlete to life. homework," "longer recess" and "no math," but the students were serious about getting elected so they promised some "out of the question for the listening students. The students also Mr. Kenney dressed as Clemente in a Pirate uniform had a chance to and shared his life story—from his early days growing up in box" items, such as: "replacing the water in the fountains with pop," "plane tickets to Hawaii," "installing a pool in the playground,' share their Puerto Rico, to his 17 years as a Pittsburgh Pirate, to his presentations tragic death on December 31, 1972 in a plane crash and "making the school buses pink." At the conclusion of the presentations, adults and students during a special carrying supplies to earthquake-torn Nicaragua. session for their Besides the historical facts of Clemente’s life, the had the opportunity to cast their votes for their favorite candidate. The only stipulation was that voters could not vote for themselves parents. students learned valuable lessons from Clemente’s life, They really including the importance of finishing school before or their family member. In a close race, Matthew Kurtz was the top vote getter and will shadow Mr. Chalus later this school year had a great time embarking on a career; how hard work, hard play and putting the determination are keys to success in life; and the as Principal for a Day. Matt was presented with a special yellow t- shirt that he can wear when he works alongside Mr. Chalus. Two stories together importance of trying to accomplish something different every and one student day. of Matt's campaign promises included installing a swimming pool on the Memorial playground and bringing laser tag to Memorial. even began his Mr. Kenney came to Franklin at the invitation of Franklin presentation students Ben and Jackson Rutherford , who saw Mr. The students also had the opportunity to interview their Morgan Dokmanovich advanced the parents, to get their thoughts and ideas of what they would do if with, "I love my slides for her “All About Me” Kenney, dressed as Clemente, in Giant Eagle. They asked life so much!" him why he was dressed that way and when Mr. Kenney they were Principal of Memorial Elementary School. presentation. explained what he does through his company, Educate Us, they asked him if he would be interested in bringing his program to their school.

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Bagpiper Entertains Dennis Bowman Taught Memorial Students Students About The LINCOLN Weather Gifted Students Present KDKA Meteorologist Dennis Bowman paid a Wax Museum Expo At visit to William Penn to Community Center talk about his favorite topic--the weather! This year, 36 Bethel Park elementary gifted students Mr. Bowman presented a Wax Museum Expo at the Bethel Park presented an Community Center. entertaining program that The students selected a famous person from history, combined magic, researched that person and put together a display board ventriloquism with his and dressed as that person to give an oral history of their friend, Chester Drawers, Mr. Bruno’s music students enjoyed the bagpipe person’s life. performance by Jamie Imbrie. and science The students stood in front of their display at the Wax experiments. He Museum and when someone wanted to “bring the person stressed safety tips Irish storytelling was the theme of this year's Read to life,” they turned on a tap light by the display and the regarding the weather, by famous person came to life, sharing biographical Across America Day celebration at Memorial and Music teaching memorable Teacher Mrs. Tweel wanted to make sure the day was information about their contributions to history. rhyming slogans such as Some of the famous people represented at this year’s memorable. "When Thunder Roars, Dennis Bowman used humor She invited former Memorial student and current to give Penn students several Expo included former Presidents Abraham Lincoln, Jamie Imbrie Go Indoors," and "Turn good weather safety tips George Washington and John F. Kennedy; sports figures Bethel Park High School senior to come to Around, Don't Drown." Memorial with his bagpipes and play for the students. during his presentation, Mia Hamm and Jackie Robinson; Wolfgang Mozart, He showed the including how to layer to stay Leonardo DaVinci, Albert Einstein and Betsy Ross. Jamie paraded down Memorial's long hallway with students how to make a warm in cold weather. his bagpipes and stopped into Mr. Bruno's music classes The students are taught by Bethel Park Elementary barometer they can use Gifted Coordinator Michelle McClellan . for a special performance. indoors and demonstrated how tornadoes are formed by It was a memorable way to end a great day! using his "Mean, Mean Tornado Machine," better known as a Tornado Simulator. Mr. Bowman also showed the students how to read a weather vane and a rain gage. He brought a weather balloon and weather radio with him to demonstrate how Lincoln first those items worked. grader Cody Did you know that most bad storms occur between Hendrych- PENN 2 and 6 PM? Several students assisted Mr. Bowman in Bondra as John demonstrating what to do in case of a tornado--go to an Muir, the inside room or hallway and kneel down facing the wall “Father of 100th Day Of School until the tornado passes. America’s One student volunteer had a great time serving as National Parks.” Celebrated In Style Mr. Bowman's model for his demonstration on how to layer clothing to stay warm when playing outside in the cold weather. The PTO generously donated $250 to KDKA's Turkey Fund and sent a beautiful Bethel Bakery cake back to KDKA with Mr. Bowman. It was a fun way to learn about the weather! Students Learn To Play Marbles Second Graders Read Students in Mrs. Clouser's room read the story, "At Play Long Ago and Today," and spent some time “Big Bushy Mustache” discussing activities that kids have enjoyed throughout the years--everything from making scooters from old Second graders in Mrs. Petalino's room wore paper boards and roller skate wheels, to riding a furiously fast mustaches while they read the story, "Big Bushy Mustache" roller coaster in modern theme parks. by Gary Soto. One of the old-fashioned games the students It's one of the students' favorite stories and they looked seemed interested in was marbles, so Mrs. Clouser great in their mustaches! showed them how to play. It was fun!

Michael Walsh was the 100th Penn student to walk through the giant 100 on the 100th Day of School

Penn students celebrated the 100th Day of School in style, as they were serenaded by the Bethel Park High School Drum Line as they entered the school. Once inside the lobby, they had to pass through the zeros on a giant "100" that stretched across the lobby, created by Third Grade Teacher Miss Capuzzi . Third Grader Michael Walsh was the 100th student to pass through the giant display and was rewarded with a gift card to Subway. Students also decorated paper stars that said, "Hooray, Hooray! Today is the 100th Day of School!" that were placed throughout the school to celebrate the occasion. Thank you, Miss Capuzzi, for the giant 100, and thank you, Drum Line, for getting this milestone day off to a Second graders had a great time wearing paper mustaches Mrs. Clouser’s students have fun learning to play rousing start! when they read “Big Bushy Mustache.” marbles.

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First Graders Learn Washington And Penn Blanket Weaving Students Participate In IMS Lincoln first graders learned the art of Native Kids Of Steel Marathon American blanket weaving, as they studied the work of Students Bring Smiles Fritz Scholder, a Native American artist who served as Program their “Artist of the Week.” To Soldiers Kelly Eckert Graffam Art Teacher spent some time Students at Washington and William Penn will have a showing the students how to use the “over-under” weaving chance to run the last mile of the Pittsburgh Marathon as technique before the students were able to choose the participants in the Kids of Steel Program. colors of yarn they wanted to use in their weavings. The one mile fun run is part of a program that is Once the students completed their weavings, Mrs. designed to get children interested in running. The goal is Eckert Graffam for children in kindergarten through sixth grade to run 26.2 removed the miles in an 18-week period. weavings from the On May 5, the day before the Pittsburgh Marathon, looms, tied the ends they will run the final mile as part of the Kids Marathon. and the students Washington Teachers Theresa Vescovi and Tammy had their very own Williams and Penn Physical Education Teacher Deron Native American Stock coordinated the program at their respective schools. weaving! Besides running, the program also has a nutritional component to it, that encourages students to try 60 new foods, including fruits and vegetables. Anna Huber The Washington program was featured in a March 5 Doing a terrific job bringing smiles to soldiers are enjoyed learning Post Gazette article. (left to right): Macy Hall, Natalie Lalama and Grace the art of Native Brueggman. American blanket weaving. Kindergarten Students Sell IMS eighth grade students Macy Hall, Grace Lemonade To Fight Cancer Brueggman and Natalie Lalama are committed to bringing smiles to soldiers, and they prepared a Mrs. Varley's Kindergarten students held a presentation to show others how they can do the same! Lemonade Stand to benefit Alex's Lemonade Stand The students prepared a workshop called "Bring a (Fighting Smile to a Soldier," and presented it at the Pennsylvania WASHINGTON Childhood Association of Student Councils Conference at South Cancer One Fayette in March. Cup at a Time). Their presentation focused on their efforts to write Lemonade and send packages to United States soldiers serving in IMS Students Help was sold to Iraq and Afghanistan that they connected with via the students and website, anysoldier.com. Washington To Celebrate staff for 25 For the past two years these students have spent Read Across cents a cup and their lunch periods corresponding with soldiers and the students gathering "comfort items" such as chap stick, granola America Day were able to bars, mouthwash, magazines, Q-tips, socks, energy raise $238 for Lemonade sellers (left to right): Cayden drinks and shaving cream, to send to soldiers. the cause. Kellington, Justin Muench, Ava Knight Their letters thank the soldiers for their efforts and Thank you, and Kaitlyn Becker. try to bring some cheer to them as they serve their Kindergarten country half-way around the world. students, for Their presentation at PASC outlined their efforts caring about others, and thank you to everyone who and showed other students how they can easily bring a supported the Lemonade Stand! smile to a soldier. As part of their presentation, they shared excerpts from some of the letters they have received from the soldiers they correspond with. All three students are members of the Independence Middle School Student Council, Website Ranks Washington sponsored by IMS teachers Jennifer Makel and Michel #29 In PA Conklin . The website, www.schooldigger.com , rated Washington Latin Students Script Their Elementary School is the 29th best elementary school in Pennsylvania, based on 2010-2011 Third and Fourth Own Plays About Orpheus Grade PSSA Scores. Washington students loved dressing as their favorite Dr. Congratulations, Eighth grade Latin students in Seuss character on Read Across America Day. Washington! Mrs. Aristegui's room worked in small groups to present Washington staff and students were celebrating plays based on the Read Across America Day (held annually on Dr. Seuss' myth about Orpheus, birthday) with the help of seventh grade students from who traveled to the Independence Middle School. MISSION: Underworld to get his The IMS students visited each of the classrooms wife, Eurydice, back throughout the day sharing not only Dr. Seuss stories, from the gods after but also other favorites. They did a great job of serving To lead an educational partnership with the she was bitten by a IMS Latin students did a great as positive role models for the younger students. A snake. job creating scenery and special thanks goes to IMS Social Studies Teacher and Community, maintaining an environment They read the costumes to simulate the Student Council Adviser Jennifer Makel for bringing Underworld for their plays that challenges all students to reach their myth in Latin and about Orpheus. the students to Washington. then created their And, of course, Washington students and staff got potential as lifelong learners and own original scripts in into the spirit of this great day to celebrate reading by responsible members of society. Latin, as well as designed scenery, costumes and dressing as their favorite Dr. Seuss characters. props, and presented their plays in their classroom to their classmates. They did a great job!

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IMS Students Stand Up BPHS Students Win At Against Bullying BPHS DECA State Conference Three BPHS Artists Recognized At Two Art Shows Three Bethel Park High School art students had artwork selected for exhibit in the Scholastic Art Awards, and one student’s work was selected for the PTI Vision and Voices Exhibit. At the Scholastic Art Awards, junior Kristine Hulefeld earned a Silver Medal for her mixed media painting. IMS students gather in the auditorium for a group photo to Freshman Amy Beaudine received Honorable Mentions prove they are standing up against bullying. for two pieces of her artwork, and sophomore Claire Nero received an Honorable Mention. Claire also received an Honorable Mention Award Bethel Park High School DECA students were excited to IMS students have been participating in bullying come away from the State Career and Development from the Pittsburgh Technical Institute’s Vision and Voices Conference with 18 Finalists and 9 Medallion Awards. prevention programs as part of the school's IMPACT exhibit in the Computer Graphics division for her piece program. The programs are designed to educate and entitled “Reach for the Stars.” create dialogue about bullying behavior and a current Bethel Park High School DECA students participated They are taught by Bethel Park High School Art at the 2012 DECA State Conference in Hershey, with 18 "state of affairs" as seen through the eyes of the students. Teachers Christen Palombo and Kent Wallisch . The students recently partnered with the television students finishing as Finalists and nine students earning show "Extreme Home Makeover" and a website called Medallion Awards. Finishing in First Place were senior Brett Reese and Standtogether.tv . Students visited the website and printed David Black out a number that shows their commitment to stand up junior in the Buying and Merchandising Research event; senior Thomas Bailey in Marketing against bullying behavior and wore their number to school Tim Render for a group photo in the auditorium and throughout the day. Management and junior in Careers in The group photo was sent to Standtogether.tv to show Marketing. Seniors Jerret Hannigan, Laurel Selep and junior that IMS is a place where bullying behavior is not tolerated. A.J. Baroffio We are proud of the IMS student body's commitment finished in Second Place in the Learn and to keeping their school and their lives bully-free! Earn Project. Earning Fourth Place Awards were seniors Dante Rebelo and Ethan Rupprecht in the Marketing Communications Team event; seniors Jimmy Stevenson IMS Students Do Well and Audrey Moad in the Entrepreneurship Written event; and sophomores Gary Gerst, Shane McNabb and At PJAS Logan Vignovic in the Sports and Entertainment Promotion Plan event. Four Independence Middle School students were Senior Brad Polen earned Fifth Place in Marketing winners at the Regional Pennsylvania Junior Academy Management, as did freshman Tara Nath in Principles of of Science competition held at Keystone Oaks High Bethel Park High School award-winning artists (left to Hospitality and Tourism. School in February. right): Kristine Hulefeld, Claire Nero and Amy Beaudine. Juniors Kelly Gastgeb and Megan Hahey earned Earning First Place Awards were eighth graders Sixth Place in the Fashion Merchandising Promotion Plan Emily Augustine (“Effects of Global Warming on Deep event. Ocean Currents”), Billy DePoutiloff (“The Varying Nine students earned Medallion Awards by being Rates at Which Different Insulators Retain Heat”) and BPHS Hosts STEAM among the top three scorers in their event for either the Christian Smetana (“Truss Bridge Strength”). test or role play aspects of the competition. Earning All of these students will advance to the State PJAS Career Fair Medallion Awards were seniors Thomas Bailey event, which will be held in May on the Penn State (Marketing Management Test and Role Play), Brad Polen University campus. Bethel Park High School hosted a successful STEAM (Marketing Management Role Play), Dante Rebelo and Eighth grader Jack Brownfield (“Does Coffee Kill Career Fair, attended by 209 Bethel Park and South Ethan Rupprecht (Marketing Communications Team Bacteria?”) earned a Second Place Award.. Fayette High School students, who had a chance to meet Role Play); juniors Morgan Guarino (Professional Selling The students were prepared for this event by 60 professionals in the areas of science, trades, Test), Haley Prough (Human Resources Management Science Teacher Michel Conklin . engineering, aviation and the military to learn more about Role Play), Grant Underwood (Automotive Services these careers. Marketing Role Play); sophomore Amanda Stofesky The day was broken into three segments. Students (Principles of Marketing Role Play) and freshman Tara attended two breakout sessions, where they listened to Nath (Principles of Hospitality and Tourism Test). panel presentations from professionals in careers such as At States, junior Gracie Moody was installed as a genetic counselor, funeral director, industrial engineer and 2012-2013 DECA State Officer. tissue engineering. The students were prepared for these competitions The third session had them in an open forum in the by Bethel Park High School Marketing and Diversified gymnasium, where they could speak one on one with Occupations Teachers Emily Smoller and Patty Wille . professionals, trades, schools and the military. The event was coordinated by BPHS Guidance Counselor Lorri Smith. FOLLOW THE BETHEL PARK SCHOOL DISTRICT ON FACEBOOK AND TWITTER

You can stay up-to-date with the Bethel Park School District by following us on Facebook and Twitter! We’re on Facebook as “Bethel Park School (Left to right) Christian Smetana, Jack Brownfield and District” and on Twitter as “bpsdinfo.” Emily Augustine were winners at the regional PJAS. If you follow us on Facebook and Twitter, you Absent: Billy DePoutiloff. will get updated information faster than just by receiving the E-Mail Newsletter. So follow us on Facebook and Twitter to stay in Bethel Park High School juniors served as hosts and hostesses for this year’s Career Fair. the know with BPSD happenings!

May 7, 2012 www.bpsd.org Page 47

BPHS Students Win English Students Shannon Fagan And Steel Center Awards Experience Virtual And Jarrod Cingel Are State Forensics Champions (Left to right): Live Field Trips James Bethel Park High School Hammerle, Mr. Youngs’ English students have enhanced their learning via “virtual” and “live” field trips! junior S hannon Fagan and Bryan Deal, Jarrod Cingel Jeffrey Wagner, Over 100 sophomore are Alec Hostuttler seniors in AP the State Forensics Champions and Ryan Literature and in the Policy Debate event at the Schaum. Honors Pennsylvania High School English 12 Speech League State took a virtual Championships that were held field trip to the at Susquehanna University. State Champions Folger They are the first Bethel Shannon Fagan (left) and Shakespeare Park State Champions in this Jarrod Cingel (right). Library in event since 1975. Washington, Double double, toil and trouble! (Left Also at States, sophomore (Left to right): Molly Graham Grace Tosic, Ryan D.C., using the to right): Alysen Garland, Jessica was a Quarterfinalist in the Impromptu Speaking Darges, Walter and Jessica Matthews as the event. new technology Three Weird Sisters in “Macbeth.” Katherine Skirda- at the high In other Forensics news, seven students have qualified to Kemerer and school and the compete at the National Catholic Forensic League’s Grand Nicholas Salak. large group instruction room. National Competition, which will be held in Baltimore, Maryland They spent one hour exploring the Folger over Memorial Day Weekend. collection of memorabilia. Representing Bethel Park in this event will be Shannon “This is the first time we’ve done this,” explained Fagan and Jarrod Cingel in the Policy Debate event; senior John Pike and junior Rebecca Rodgers in the Duo Top of the Shop Mr. Youngs. “Now we have the facility at the new high school to bring several classes together at one time in Interpretation event; juniors Madeline Balzarini and Lucy Five Bethel Park High School students were presented an effective setting for instruction. Sedor Franzak in Dramatic Performance, and senior Jordan with Top of the Shop Awards for the first semester of the “It’s also the first time the Folger Library has done Todd in Legislative Debate. 2011-2012 school year by the Steel Center Area Vocational this, so it was especially exciting to see what they Three students are currently First Alternates and will Technical School. showed us.” The students had access to the world’s compete if a qualifier is not able to attend. They are junior Julia The awards were presented to those students who largest Shakespeare collection and were able to travel Kleszcz in Original Oratory, and sophomores Molly Graham demonstrate outstanding conduct, attendance, proficiency n backstage with professional actors rehearsing for a in Dramatic Performance and Jamie Cavrak in Interpretation course work and professionalism. of Prose and Poetry. Ryan Schaum Shakespeare performance. Receiving awards were senior They also saw original documents relating to They are coached by Alice Ursin . (Machinist Technician), juniors Bryan Deal (Protective James Hammerle Shakespeare’s life and times. Services), (Automotive Mechanics), In preparation for the program, the students read Alec Hostuttler (Advertising and Design) and sophomore Jeffrey Wagner Shakespeare’s tragedies, “Macbeth” and “Hamlet” and German News (Building Trades). were videoed reciting lines from the plays. The Extra Effort Awards students also emailed their questions to the Folger National German Exams experts via the web and were excited when three of Four Bethel Park High School students were presented Two seniors scored in the 90th percentile nationally their questions were selected during the virtual field trip on the 2012 with the Extra Effort Award from the Steel Center Area to be answered. Vocational Technical School for the first and second quarters Level 4 National Almost 40 Advanced Placement English Literature German Exam. of the 2011-2012 school year. and Creative Writing students traveled to the Carnegie Trevor Receiving the Award for the First Quarter were seniors Nicholas Salak Museum of Art to see an exhibition of Teenie Harris Walter’s score of (a student in the Heating Ventilation and Air photography. Conditioning program) and Katherine Skirda-Kemerer 94% was sixth The purpose of the field trip was to spur the highest out of the (Food Service) as well as sophomore (Computer students’ critical thinking and aesthetic anaylsis skills Information Systems). 122 Western as a response to the exhibition. Pennsylvania Receiving the Award for the Second Quarter were Creative Writing students were looking for the art to Grace Tosic and junior Ryan Darges (Advertising and high school inspire their writing. The AP students were making students who Design). connections between the photographer and their study The award was presented to students who took the exam, of August Wilson’s play, “Fences.” and placed him demonstrate outstanding attitude, work ethic, attendance Both Harris and Wilson situate their works in Nicholas Poe (left) and Trevor Walter and dependability. among the top Pittsburgh’s Hill District neighborhood during the mid- (right) seven percent of 20th century. Each body of work helps the students to the scorers Jessica Walker Named understand the other, while giving students an nationally. appreciation for Pittsburgh’s past. Nicholas Poe’s score of 93% was seventh highest Seton Hill Scholar in the region and placed him among the top nine percent BPHS Team Finishes In in the nation. Representatives from Seton Hill University’s Because of their scores, both students have now Admissions Office paid a surprise visit to the Bethel Park Third At Science Bowl qualified to compete for a scholarship to travel and study High School Counseling Office to award a $113,400 in Germany this summer. Seton Hill Scholars A team of five Bethel Park High School students finished in Program Scholarship to Third Place at the Science Bowl competition, which was held at National German Honor Society senior Jessica Walker . the South Campus of Community College of Allegheny County. Ten students will be inducted into the Bethel Park Jessica will be an Representing Bethel Park in this competition were senior English/Creative Ross Johannes Jarrod Cingel, High School Chapter of the Delta Epsilon Phi German (captain) and sophomores National Honor Society. Writing Major at Seton Kevin Fleischmann, Brandon Hanson and Christian Hokaj . Eiren Burkhart, Hill in the fall and the The inductees include sophomores The team competed against 41 teams from area high Erika Miller and Benjamin Muscato, and freshmen check that was schools. They are Joseph Beaver, Steven Davis, Andrew Dougher, presented to her coached by Bethel Park Adelai Flowers, Brenden Kail, Matea Pranjic and represents full tuition for High School Science Lauren Toth. four years at Seton Hill. Teacher Barbara Eisel . She is one of ten Jessica Walker was pleasantly In order to be eligible for induction, students must surprised to be named a Seton (Left to right): have studied German for at least three semesters, and incoming freshmen to Christian Hokaj, receive this award. Hill Scholar and receive four full must maintain a minimum 3.6 GPA in German and 3.0 in years of free tuition to Seton Hill. Jarrod Cingel, Brandon all other classes. Inductees must also demonstrate Presenting her with her award Hanson, Kevin strong character and be committed to the continued was John Gibson from Seton Fleischmann and Ross study of German at BPHS. Hill’s Admissions Office. Johannes.

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Samantha Vona And Bethel Park High School Adaptive Phys Ed Rebecca Wallace To National Honor Society Students Run, Bike And Receive SHASDA Awards Inducts 96 New Members Walk To Hershey! Bethel Park Ninety-six students were inducted into the Bethel Park High High School seniors School Chapter of the National Honor Society in a ceremony held Samantha Vona in the Bethel Park High School auditorium. and Rebecca This year’s inductees included three seniors, 13 juniors and Wallace have been 80 sophomores, who have maintained a minimum 3.85 QPA, selected as the committed themselves to at least 35 hours of community service Bethel Park High per year and have demonstrated strong leadership and good School recipients of character. the SHASDA Inducted this year were seniors Marissa Campbell, Emily Awards, presented Correia and Danielle Rauch . by the South Hills Juniors inducted were Dan Bello, Adam Bromley, Kevin Area School Burke, Grant Conroy, Cody Dapper, Hayley Dowd, James Districts Association. Futrell, Alexis Keibler, Miranda Koenig, Dominic Papalia, BPHS Adaptive Phys Ed students enjoyed Rebecca Wallace (left) and Samantha Sean Raymond, Lucy Sola Matt Tomasetti The awards are Vona (right) and . biking, running and walking 218 miles! given each year to Sophomores Lydia Archinal, Allison Brinkhoff, Ben two students from Brownfield, Sarah Buczkowski, Anthony Capozzoli, Austin Bethel Park High School Adaptive Physical Education SHASDA member school districts, who have overcome Carrozza, Jamie Cavrak, Victoria Lynn Chorey, Jarrod Cingel, students walked, biked and ran their way to Hershey. obstacles to succeed in school and life. John Counihan, Christina Cvetic, Megan Douds, Olivia Dowd, The students used the stationery bicycles, treadmills and The students were honored with the award recipients Michelle Duke, Zachary Enick, Brenna Erzen, Stephen elliptical machines to travel 218 miles, which would be the from other SHASDA school districts at a banquet held in April Evrard, Emily Fankulewski, Autumn Fleckenstein, Kevin equivalent of traveling from Bethel Park to Hershey, the at Southpointe. Fleischmann, Ian Fleming, Lauren Forsythe, Rachel Gaddis, sweetest town in the world! Shannon Good and Rebecca Greene were among those The students readily accepted this challenge and inducted. especially enjoyed using the recumbent bicycles and elliptical Creative Writing Students Other sophomores inducted include Madison Gregg, machines in the new Cardio Room at the new Bethel Park High Michael Gronsky, Brandon Hanson, Jason Harnack, School. In less than a month, they accomplished their goal! Elizabeth Hartman, Jessica Horgan, Carmen Jansante, Luke Congratulations to Taylor Blair, Jonathan Diulus, Lucas Interact With Young Jansante, Dylan Karas, Alyssa Kearns, Kara Kosmer, Kevin Freeman, Connor Lynch, Jeremy McDonough, Nick Krieger, Clare Kucerovy, Luke Langkamp, Adam Larson, Schirra, Kaitlyn Streicher, Alyssa Strutt, Jimmie Tosic and Adult Author Hayley Lazzari, Emily Mackowiak, Megan Marecic, Ross Cam Williams . Martin, Erin McMahon, Alexandra Meyer, Jake Murphy, Claire Of course, they celebrated with some Hershey’s Nero, Mitchell Nordstrom, Katelyn Petronie, Kaleigh Poe, chocolate when they reached their 218 mile goal! Valerie Poutous, Marc Reed and William Ruschel . Additionally, sophomores Tatiana Ruzzini, Angela Sanctis, Hannah Scheirer, Alec Searles, Brett Seese, Nicki Shannon, Jenna Smetana, Haley Smith, Jamie Smith, Lydia Strickling, Several Bethel Park Mary Hannah Swaney, Stephanie Trozzo, Logan Tuite, Rachel Unger, Sean Varley, Logan Vignovic, Chad Vomer, Ellen Students Win At PJAS Walker, Tyler Williams, Liam Wolf, Lindsay Yost, Brock Zekany, Katie Zilcosky, Harper Zimmer, Conor Zimmerman Seven Bethel and Garrett Zola were also inducted that evening. Park High School Speaking about the four pillars of the National Honor Society students were were seniors Kelsey Metheny (Leadership), Audrey Moad winners at the (Service), Trevor Walter (Scholarship) and Patrick Emmett Regional (Character). Pennsylvania Also addressing the group was the Honorable Robert Junior Academy of Dan Telek was one of the aspiring writers Wyda Science who enjoyed meeting Kathryn Miller-Haines. , District Magistrate for Bethel Park and Upper St. Clair, who spoke on the importance of good character. competition held at Bethel Park High School English Teacher John Lorenzi is Keystone Oaks Creative writing students in Miss Falce’s class had a the group’s Advisor. High School in lively discussion with Kathryn Miller-Haines, a 2012 Edgar February. Award Nominee and award-winning playwright. Earning First (Left to right): Bethel Park High Mrs. Miller-Haines is the author of The Girl Is Murder , Place Awards School students Jarrod Cingel, an Edgar nominee for best mystery novel in the young were: senior Will Molly Graham and Will Ament adult category. The book is the first in a series of Ament (“The earned the right to compete at novels centered around a 1940’s teen detective. Effects of Marcellus the State PJAS by finishing in She is also the author of the Rose Winter mystery Shale Drilling on First Place at the Regional event. series that are set to the backdrop of the American Cross Creek”) and homefront during World War II. sophomores Jarrod Cingel for his project, “Software She spoke to the students about her interest in Parallelization and Machine Translation,” and Molly writing and answered their questions about a variety of Graham (“The Relationship Between Gender and topics, including how to get published, overcoming Conformity.”) writer’s block, and how to develop characters, to name a Two additional awards were presented. Jarrod few. received a $100 Special Award from the Technology To overcome writer’s block, she told the students, Collaborative for earning a high score on his computer “You know that 99 percent of what you write during that programming project, and Will was presented with the time is going to be awful, but push through and keep Perseverance Award, for participating in PJAS for six writing. You can always go back and fix it.” consecutive years. What came through in her talk was her love of writing. All three of these students will advance to the State “On days when I don’t write, I feel like I’m missing out on PJAS event, which will be held in May on the Penn a lot.” State University campus. Several of her students brought their personal copies Earning Second Place at the Regional PJAS were of The Girl Is Murder to school and Mrs. Miller-Haines juniors Julianna Buchwald (“Effect of Energy Drinks gladly signed the copies, as the students gave her on the Heart Rate of Daphnia Magna”) and Shannon feedback on the book. Fagan (“Water Wheel Energy”), sophomore Liam Wolf Bethel Park High School Principal Dr. Zeb (“The Dangers of Sleep Deprivation”) and freshman Jansante presents a certificate to sophomore Adithya Krishnachand Claire Kucerovy during the 2012 National Honor (“Diagnosing Diabetes”). Society Induction Ceremony. The students were prepared for this event by Science Teachers Barbara Eisel and Jackie Jeffers .

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Music News

Region Chorus • Holly Brueggman (Soprano II) • Troy Dunlop (Tenor I) • Mackenzie Happe (Soprano II) • Peter Henkels (Tenor I) Jocelyn Hyrb All-State Chorus • (Alto II) Mackenzie Happe • Zach Laufer (Bass I) • (Soprano II) Ben Muscato • Peter Henkels (Tenor I) • (Bass I) Lucy Sedor-Franzak • Nicholas Pilotta (Bass II) • (Soprano II) • Lucy Sedor-Franzak (Soprano II) • Tristan Slater (Soprano II) (Front row, left to right): Tristan Slater, Lucy Sedor-Franzak, Holly Bureggman, Joci Hyrb and Mackenzie Happe; (back row, left to right): Peter Henkels, Nick Pilotta, Zach Laufer, Troy Dunlop and Ben Muscato. (Left to right): Mackenzie Happe, Peter Henkels and Lucy-Sedor Franzak

Region Orchestra • Stephen Barnhart (Viola) • Alex Curtis (Viola) • Mark Debski (Oboe) All National Orchestra • Junior Stephen Barnhart will participate in the National Association for Music Educators All-National Orchestra Concert, which will be held on June 24 at the Kennedy Center in (Left to right): Alex Curtis, Mark Debski and Washington, D.C. Stephen Barnhart Stephen Barnhart

Region Band Electrify Your Strings Electrified Auditorium • Lucas Beaver (Bassoon) The inaugural BPHS music concert in the new BPHS auditorium • Travis Butler (Percussion) Mark Debski was a memorable experience, as professional rock violinist and • (Oboe) Bridgid Bibbens • Jonathon Griffith (Saxophone) Transiberian Orchestra member led 120 BPHS • Mary Hannah Swaney (Flute) orchestra students in a program called Electrify Your Strings. This definitely was not your grandmother’s orchestra concert, as Ms. Bibbens played a seven-string, fretted electric Viper violin and These Bethel Park High School musicians led the students through 70’s rock classics such as “Carry On pose for a photo at the Region Band Concert Wayward Son,” “Live and Let Die,” and “Hoedown.” with Dr. Donald McKinney, Guest Conductor Thanks to a generous grant from the Bethel Park Community from Louisiana State University (front row, left to right): Mary Hannah Swaney and Mark Foundation, BPHS Debski; (back row, left to right): Jonathon students were able to Griffith, Lucas Beaver and Travis Butler. join Ms. Bibbens on an electric violin, viola and cello. Over 900 people were in the audience for this rousing performance. All-State Orchestra Rock on! • Stephen Barnhart (Viola) • Mark Debski (Oboe) This was the first time BPHS orchestra students stood during a concert, but that’s what rock musicians do, as Electrify Your Strings came to BPHS! (Left to right): Stephen Barnhart and Mark Debski

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BPHS Student News Athletic Update Blood Drive You can read more about the 2011-2012 Athletic Highlights at: • Senior Meghan Riggle coordinated the first Blood Drive in the http://www.bpsd.org/Downloads/2011-2012%20athletic%20highlights25.pdf . new Bethel Park High School and set a school record for participation, with 260 students signed up to donate. Ice Hockey • The Varsity Team are the Penguin Cup Champions and State Runners-Up. Spirit Week Unsung Heroes • The JV Team are Section Champions and qualified for the Playoffs. • Amanda Craig, Lauren O’Brien, Diana Delrosso, Hannah • Jacob Brown was named the High School Hockey Player of the Year by the Post Libell Tyler Parker Gazette PG’s and received this year’s Unsung Heroes Meghan Riggle . Zach Volzer was also named to the Stellar Six 2011-2012 all-area Awards, which are awarded annually by Student Government hockey team. during Spirit Week to those students who deserve recognition for their contributions to the student body. In-Line Hockey • The JV Team earned the Silver Rotary Students of the Month Medal in the PIRHL JV2 • Senior Emma Hartzell was named the February Championship Series. Rotary Student of the Month by the Rotary Club of Girls Basketball Bethel Park. She was recognized for her efforts • WPIAL Quarterfinalist. to coordinate a Presents for Preemies Campaign Justine Carroll to benefit the infants in the Neonatal Intensive • was selected to Care Unit at UPMC Magee. play on the AAAA Team in the Roundball Classic. • Senior Audrey The JV Inline Silver Medal Team Emma Hartzell and Moad was named Rotarian Rachel Thieroff Girls Swimming the March Rotary • Sixth at the WPIAL Championships. Student of the • Ashley Sams finished in Second Place at the WPIAL Diving Championships and Month by the Rotary Club of Bethel Park. She in Sixth Place at the PIAA Diving Championships. was recognized for her efforts as Community • Allie Brinkhoff finished in Third Place in the 200 IM at WPIALs and in Eighth Service Chair for the National Honor Society, Place at States. which collected winter clothes to donate to • Mallory Mutschler received a scholarship to continue her swimming career at SHIM, DVDs for dialysis clinics and served as Lock Haven University. Student Ambassadors for the February 18 Audrey Moad and Rotarian • Coach Bill Kennedy was inducted into the Pennsylvania Swimming Hall of Fame. Community Open House for the new Bethel Rachel Thieroff. Park High School. Boys Swimming • Fourth at the WPIAL Championships. Career Scholars Academy • Erik Brinkhoff is the WPIAL Champion in the 50 Freestyle. Dana Bruce • The 200 Freestyle Relay Team— Zach Misak, Danny Litwin, Mitch Stahara and • Junior has been selected to attend the University Erik Brinkhoff of Pittsburgh Health Career Scholars Academy (formerly known —finished in Third Place at the WPIAL Championships and in as the Pennsylvania Governors School) to learn more about a Seventh Place at States. career in health care. Wrestling Ben Nolan The National Video Finalist • was the Section Champion at 182 pounds and was named to Almanac’s 2012 Wrestling All Stars. Dana Bruce • Sophomore Dylan McKenna was one of 55 finalists in the Show Us Your ETC Video Rifle Contest, competing against videos created by other high • Jim Lofstead finished in 13th Place at the WPIAL Individual Championships and school and college students. His video was of a light show he competed at States. created using the light board at IMS. • Autumn Held finished in Fourth Place and Will Botzer finished in Fifth Place at Dylan McKenna the WPIAL Senior Shoot. Vanderbilt PAVE Program • Junior Rachel Wyda was accepted into the PAVE Program at Boys Basketball Vanderbilt University. This six week summer program is • Qualified for the WPIAL Playoffs. designed to strengthen the academic skills of students who are • Brian Holland was selected to play in the 17th Annual Hoops for a Cure WPIAL Boys All-Star Basketball Game and was named First Team All-Section by the planning to study engineering, pre-medical, science or Beaver County Times technology in college. . • Brian Holland and Evan Schweitzer were named to The Almanac’s Boys Published Poets Basketball All-Star Second Team. Cody Gilchrist was named Honorable Mention, Ben O’Connor • Autumn Shadier, Danielle Aiello, Jonathan Unger and and Coach was named Coach of the Year. Samantha Edsall Rachael Wyda had their original poems selected for Indoor Track publication in the Spring 2012 issue of In Bethel Park Magazin • At the State Championships, Kelsey Metheny, Tatianna Ruzzini, Amanda e. Ruschel and Hillary Boxheimer earned a Seventh Place Medal in the Girls DMR Shakespeare Finalist Relay. • Kelsey Metheny and Hillary Boxheimer accepted • Junior Lucy Sedor-Franzak was one of 14 Finalists in the Track Scholarships to continue their collegiate athletic Grades 8-12 Monologue Division of the 18th Annual careers at the University of Pittsburgh. Shakespeare Monologue and Scene Contest, sponsored by the Pittsburgh Public Theater. Cheerleaders • Teamed up with Opera Auditions Special Olympics of Lucy • Freshman Grace McCurry successfully Allegheny County Sedor-Franzak auditioned and was selected to perform in the to raise awareness, Pittsburgh Opera’s productions of “Hansel and Hillary Boxheimer (left) and funds and support Gretel” and “Tosca.” Kelsey Metheny (right). for the organization. The girls attended several events this People to People Grace McCurry • Julianna Buchwald, Jamie Lucarelli, Matt Serafini and Ian year, including the Polar Bear Plunge, Bowling Fleming have been selected as People to People Tournaments and Basketball Tournaments to cheer on the Special Olympic Athletes. This BP Cheerleaders raised $9,500 for Ambassadors. Juli and Jamie will travel to France, Austria, Switzerland and year’s 22nd Annual Spring Fashion Show Special Olympics at this year’s Italy, while Matt and Ian will travel to England, Ireland, Scotland and Wales for raised $9,500 for Special Olympics. Spring Fashion Show. three weeks to focus on cultural exchange activities and service projects.

May 7, 2012 www.bpsd.org