Explore the exciting world of STEM—Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics, right here at Seneca Valley! In this episode, we're uncovering the wide range of STEM classes, clubs, and activities available to students, plus a sneak peek at the upcoming STEM Alumni event and STEM fair.

IN THIS EPISODE, WE WILL REVIEW

• What STEM is and the significant growth in related classes and programs over the years
• The many ways students can get involved with STEM
• Details about Seneca Valley's STEM Alumni event and STEM fair
• How STEM skills are preparing students for future careers

For more information about the STEM Alumni event or STEM fair, email Ms. Rebecca Finch at [email protected] or Ms. Kelly Weston at [email protected].

SPECIAL GUESTS

Ms. Kelly Weston, Seneca Valley Senior High School AP Chemistry teacher, Science Department Chair and Sponsor for Science Honor Society

With 25 years of teaching experience, including two decades at Seneca Valley, Kelly Weston is a dedicated educator and passionate advocate for science. Currently teaching AP Chemistry, she also serves as the Science Honor Society sponsor and faculty advisor for the PJAS and PRSEF competitions. Her commitment to outreach shines through her organization of elementary STEM activities and mentorship of senior project students as they create their own STEM events. Mrs. Weston loves sharing her enthusiasm for science with learners of all ages, inspiring the next generation of curious minds.

Ms. Rebecca Finch, Seneca Valley Senior High School/Anatomy and Molecular Biology Teacher

Rebecca Finch is in her 32nd year of teaching in the science department of Seneca Valley Senior High School. Throughout her career, she has taught a variety of subjects, including Science and Technology, Horticulture, Biology, Honors Anatomy, and Honors Molecular Biology.  Ms. Finch is also the proud sponsor of the Medical Careers Club, where former STEM students return to engage current students in hands-on career exploration. Additionally, she co-sponsors the Science Honor Society, overseeing both the STEM Fair and annual events featuring STEM alumni. 

Did you know there's a historic landmark on SV's secondary campus in Jackson Township that dates back to 1905? In this episode, you’ll learn about the small plot of land that houses a cemetery with 16 graves, all belonging to members of the Knights of Pythias. Join us as we learn more about the cemetery, its residents, and the ongoing efforts to honor and preserve this special part of our community's past.

 IN THIS EPISODE, WE WILL REVIEW

• Historic landmarks on the SV campus dating back to 1905
• General information about the Knights of Pythias and its grave sites on the secondary campus
• Unique ways these historic landmarks are utilized as an educational resource
• Lesser-known facts about the Knights of Pythias 

SPECIAL GUEST
Ms. Linda Andreassi, Seneca Valley Communications Director

Linda Andreassi has been working at Seneca Valley for over 27 years. A graduate of Indiana University of Pennsylvania with a Bachelor's Degree in Journalism, Ms. Andreassi has previous experience in the newspaper industry where she was a reporter and editor. She has over 60 awards for excellence in public relations programs and publications from such organizations as Pennsylvania School Boards Association (PSBA), Pennsylvania School Public Relations Association (PenSPRA) and National School Public Relations Association (NSPRA).

Ms. Andreassi is responsible for all District written and electronic publications, as well as communications through the mass parent notification system. She also manages the District website, social media sites, "Voices" Podcast series, mobile app, and serves as the press spokesperson for Seneca Valley. Additional department responsibilities include press releases, annual report development, marketing and promotion of the District and managing advertising for the website, e-newsletter and districtwide calendar. 

Lace up your sneakers for the 2nd Annual Ryan Gloyer Memorial Run (5K Run/Walk), Sunday, Nov. 3 on SV's Secondary Campus in Harmony, PA. In this episode, you'll learn more about the event, how to register and the overall mission of the Ryan Gloyer Memorial Run.

IN THIS EPISODE, WE WILL REVIEW

• What is the Ryan Gloyer Memorial Run?
• Where and when the event will take place and who can participate. 
• The mission of the Ryan Gloyer Memorial Run.
• What the event proceeds go toward?
• How can someone register for the event.

SPECIAL GUEST
Ms. Annie Mersing, Seneca Valley Foundation Director of Development

Ms. Annie Mersing earned her Bachelor of Science in Business Administration with a Concentration in Management from Robert Morris University. Ms. Mersing has been in the Seneca Valley School District since 2019, first serving as the Executive Assistant to the Superintendent of Schools.  Now in the role as the Director of Development for the Seneca Valley Foundation, Ms. Mersing also serves as the District's Director of Advancement and provides assistance with securing and writing District grants.

Dive into the fascinating world of artificial intelligence and how it's making its way into schools. Listen to discussions about the opportunities for students and educators to learn about AI and its applications along with the guidelines set in place.

 IN THIS EPISODE, WE WILL REVIEW

• What artificial intelligence and generative AI is and how it's making its way into schools 
• Ongoing professional development related to AI for educators
• Guidelines for use of AI technologies in the school environment
• Privacy and security measures when utilizing AI
• Opportunities for students to learn about AI and its applications

SPECIAL GUEST:
Dr. Matt McKinley, Seneca Valley Assistant Superintendent for 7-12 Instruction and Mr. Sean VanScoyoc, Director of Information Technology

Dr. Matthew McKinley serves as Assistant Superintendent of Secondary Instruction, grades 7-12. Prior to his assistant role, he served for six years as principal of the Seneca Valley Senior High School. He also served as assistant principal of the Seneca Valley Senior High School and as a mathematics teacher at the same building for six years. Prior to coming to Seneca Valley, Dr. McKinley taught as a mathematics teacher at Mercer Area Junior/Senior High School. He earned his bachelor of art’s degree in mathematics from Grove City College and obtained his Master of Education degree and his Doctor of Education from the University of Pittsburgh. Dr. McKinley developed the Academy of Choice Program in the district, which includes a growing cyber program and a one-of-a kind performing arts department. He is also author of the Seneca Valley Random Drug Testing Policy, which has been lauded locally as well as nationally and was cited as a model program by the White House Drug Policy Council.

Mr. Sean VanScoyoc is the Information Technology Director for Seneca Valley School District, a Quad A school district with a host of academic, technical and extracurricular honors and accolades. Mr. VanScoyoc has a Bachelor of Science degree in computer science from Indiana University of Pennsylvania, and has more than 25 years of educational technology experience in non-profit organizations, K-12 schools, higher education, and as an expert consultant. He was recognized as a finalist in “Tech & Learning” Magazine’s Leader of the Year Award and Seneca Valley School District received a Pennsylvania School Board of Association’s Schools of Excellence in Technology Award.

Bring your friends and family and join us for the Inaugural Seneca Valley Best Buddies Walk. This milestone event takes place on June 1, at North Boundary Park and celebrates inclusion and the diverse abilities of individuals, providing a wonderful opportunity to support fundraising efforts for Best Buddies International. 

IN THIS EPISODE, WE WILL REVIEW

• Overview of the new Best Buddies chapter at Haine Elementary School
• Volunteering with Best Buddies
• Details about the upcoming Seneca Valley Best Buddies Walk
• Mission of the Best Buddies Walk
• How to register for the Best Buddies Walk, scheduled for Saturday, June 1
  • Seneca Valley Best Buddies Walk (runsignup.com)

SPECIAL GUEST
Dr. Kathy Mahon, School Psychologist and Miss Lucy Martsolf, Seneca Valley fourth grader at Haine Elementary School

Dr. Kathy Mahon is in her 23rd year as a school psychologist with Seneca Valley. She has a Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology from Mercyhurst University, Master of Education and Specialist Certification in School Psychology from Edinboro University, and Doctor of Education in School Psychology with a neuropsychology specialty from Indiana University of Pennsylvania. She is also the lead advisor for the Best Buddies chapter at Haine Elementary. 

Miss Lucy Martsolf is a 10-year-old student at Haine Elementary who has been active in the special needs community from a young age. She has volunteered at numerous sensory events through the nonprofit her mother started in honor of her sister in 2016. She has an older sister with autism who she loves very much. They are “best buddies.” Miss Martsolf has demonstrated courage to help individuals who learn differently and respect for those who demonstrate a need for a helping hand. 

Navigating the journey for college and career preparations is exciting but can also come with lots of questions. Listen as SV's Coordinator of Collegiate & Career Affairs takes a deep dive into the prospects of the upcoming college and career fair and reviews “SchooLinks,” SV’s new college and career readiness platform.

IN THIS EPISODE, WE WILL REVIEW

• The role of Coordinator of Collegiate and Career Affairs 
• Top questions that parents ask regarding college and career planning
•  Upcoming College and Career Fair
•  Helpful tips/advice that parents/guardians should know, like SchooLinks, SV’s new college and career readiness platform 
• Student and parent resources available on the website - Guidance / OVERVIEW (svsd.net)

SPECIAL GUEST
Ms. Darla Ramirez-Lightner, Coordinator of Collegiate & Career Affairs

Ms. Darla Ramirez-Lightner is in her 32nd year at Seneca Valley as a school counselor.  In the Spring of 2019, she transitioned into the Coordinator of Collegiate & Career Affairs for the secondary campus working with the three school counseling offices 7-12. She earned her Bachelor of Arts Degree in Sociology from the University of Pittsburgh, a Master of Education degree with Secondary School Counseling Certification from Indiana University of Pennsylvania, and a Master of Psychology Degree from Grand Canyon University.  Additionally, she holds a College Admissions Counseling Specialist Certificate and Career Development Specialist Certificate. 

As a proud parent of three students who graduated from Seneca Valley, she offers a dual college and career perspective and has served the Seneca Valley community with experience, passion and enthusiasm.

What is a paraprofessional? Listen to our Voices podcast to learn more about this vital role and the impact these individuals make in supporting our school community. Learn about the skillset and qualifications needed along with our new incentive program.

IN THIS EPISODE, WE WILL REVIEW

• The job of a paraprofessional
• Qualifications and skillset needed to become a paraprofessional
• Details about the new paraprofessional incentive program
• Bonuses and other incentives within the new program

Learn more about the paraprofessional incentive program:
Human Resources / Paraprofessional Incentive Program (svsd.net)

SPECIAL GUEST
Dr. Jeff Roberts, Director of Student Services and Ms. Kyra Bobak, Director of Human Resources 

 Dr. Jeff Roberts has been an administrator in the Seneca Valley School District since 2009, and currently serves as the Seneca Valley Supervisor of Gifted Education and Student Services. He earned his degree in doctoral studies at Indiana University of Pennsylvania in Administration and Leadership Studies. In addition to supervising gifted education, Mr. Roberts oversees the school counseling, health service and library departments. Dr. Roberts is a graduate of the Leadership Butler County program. He is also currently a member of the Butler County Suicide Prevention Coalition, and a board member of the Butler County Alliance for Children. 

Ms. Kyra Bobak has over 20 years of experience in education and has been an administrator in Seneca Valley School District since 2006. She served as an assistant principal and then as a principal for Haine Elementary School. She earned her Bachelor of Science degree in Elementary and Early Childhood Education from Edinboro University of Pennsylvania and received her Master’s degree in Administration and Policy Studies from the University of Pittsburgh. 

The Seneca Valley School District is one of only four school districts across the country to be recognized as a 2023 Fall "Lighthouse System" by AASA, the School Superintendents Association. Listen as SV superintendents, Dr. Tracy Vitale and Dr. Sean McCarty discuss the details of this prestigious recognition and what it means to Seneca Valley.

IN THIS EPISODE, WE WILL REVIEW

• What is the AASA and AASA’s Learning 2025 Network? 
• What is the “Lighthouse” designation and how did SV earn such an award?
• What is the application process like?
• What this prestigious recognition means for Seneca Valley.

SPECIAL GUEST
Dr. Tracy Vitale, Seneca Valley Superintendent of Schools
Dr. Sean McCarty, Seneca Valley Assistant Superintendent for K-6 Instruction

Dr. Tracy Vitale proudly serves as the Superintendent of Schools for Seneca Valley, which is one of the largest public school districts in Western Pennsylvania. Prior to becoming Superintendent in 2011, she was an Assistant Superintendent, Principal and Teacher in urban, rural and suburban environments in Pennsylvania and North Carolina. She has a strong understanding and experience in community relations, public education advocacy, business partnerships and workforce development. She also has an extensive background in personnel selection, training & supervision.

Dr. Sean McCarty has held the position of assistant superintendent of elementary education, grades K-6, since 2012. In his role he has expanded the elementary curriculum and added unique courses for the K-6 student. Dr. McCarty has overseen the development and expansion of an elementary foreign language program and is also credited for introducing and initiating the District's Creativity, Innovation & Research Center (CIRC), which serves as a model program for K-6 schools all across the State.

This event is music to our ears! In this episode, we're talking about the 25th Annual Senior Holiday Event. Listen as Mr. Brian Croach, Instrumental Music Teacher for grades 7-12 discusses the details and the additional performances and student artwork that will be on display in celebration of the 25th anniversary of this year’s event. 

IN THIS EPISODE, WE WILL REVIEW

• What is the Senior Holiday Event?
• When does the event take place and who can attend?
• In celebration of the 25th anniversary, what can guests expect from this year's event?
• RSVPs are required by Dec. 13. Please call 724-452-6040, ext. 0 to reserve your spot.

SPECIAL GUEST
Mr. Brian Croach, Instrumental Music Teacher for grades 7-12

Mr. Brian Croach is in his ninth year of teaching and third year at Seneca Valley. He is a band director that works with students in grades 7-12 through various curricular instrumental ensembles such as the 7th grade band, 8th grade band, Symphonic Band, and Concert Winds. He is also the director of the Ryan Gloyer Middle School (RGMS) Jazz Ensemble and is one of the directors for the Roaring Raider Marching Band. Mr. Croach received he undergraduate degree in Music Education from Slippery Rock University and has continued his education through the Instructional Leadership program at Robert Morris University.

Additionally, Mr. Jason Shorr, Seneca Valley Intermediate High School and Senior High School Art teacher shared information regarding how guests can expect to see an exhibit of student artwork on display from grades 9-12 at this year's Senior Holiday Event.

Seneca Valley will be hosting an upcoming parent event, "The Power of Prevention: Insights into Youth Substance Abuse and Addiction," on Oct. 25, at 6:30 p.m. in the senior high school auditorium. Listen as Dr. C. Thomas Brophy discusses insights into youth substance abuse and addiction.

 IN THIS EPISODE, WE WILL REVIEW

• The upcoming parent event, "The Power of Prevention: Insights into Youth Substance Abuse and Addiction" 
• Facts about the neuroscience of addiction
• What parents can expect to hear during "The Power of Prevention"
• Why attend "The Power of Prevention"

SPECIAL GUEST
Dr. C. Thomas Brophy

Dr. C. Thomas Brophy is one of the regions only physicians board certified in Addiction Medicine as well as Emergency Medicine. He is local to the western PA area, obtained his neuroscience degree from the University of Pittsburgh, and completed his medical residency training at Allegheny General Hospital. With a passion for education, Dr. Brophy has become well known for educating the public as well as medical professionals on the neuroscience of addiction. He is a regular contributor to KDKA radio and has organized and executed over 100 public education seminars on topics related to addiction. His passion for helping addicts started at an early age.  Dr. Brophy has dedicated his life to not only helping those struggling with addiction, but also helping everyone understand the neurophysiology of addiction better, so that we can all be part of the solution. Dr. Brophy began working with the Gaiser Center in 2019 and serves as Medical Director for the facility.