Eagle Spotlight: March 2025

Eagle Spotlight News and updates from the Grove City Area School District March 26, 2025 Extra! Extra! Read All About It!!     Spotlight: GCASD Counseling Department Student Ambassadors is just one of the many programs started by the counseling department to ease the transition for middle school students into ninth grade at the high school. GCASD Counselors help Anchor Students in a Shifting World At the Grove City Area School District, the work of the counseling department stretches far beyond what many might expect. The counselors in each building — Hillview Elementary, Grove City Area Middle School, Grove City Area High School and as well as the District's Educational Services Program— are not just helping students select courses or fill out college applications. They’re managing mental health referrals, supporting behavioral growth, and guiding students toward post-graduation goals, all while trying to meet an ever-growing list of social and emotional needs. Jennifer Connelly, the district’s Director of Pupil Services, has a clear view of the whole operation. She’s seen how the job has shifted. Time was a counselor might’ve helped you schedule classes or figure out where to send your SAT scores. Now, they’re just as likely to be arranging mental health support or intervening in a crisis. “Without this team,” Connelly says, “a lot of kids would be left spinning.” Read full Story Here  America250PA brings 'William Penn" and its Keystone Classroom Initiative to Hillview Elementary Hillview Elementary School students had a unique opportunity to step back in time on Tuesday, March 18, as America250PA brought its Keystone Classroom Initiative to their school. The event, designed to engage young learners across Pennsylvania in the state’s rich history, featured a special guest appearance by none other than Pennsylvania’s founder, William Penn. The program, part of America250PA’s broader mission to connect Pennsylvanians with their state’s heritage in anticipation of the nation’s 250th anniversary in 2026, was met with great enthusiasm by Hillview’s third and fourth graders. The highlight of the visit was an interactive storytelling session led by a historical interpreter portraying William Penn, who spoke about his life and vision for Pennsylvania. Read Full Story Here  Grove City Area High School Construction Update – March 2025 Construction progress at Grove City Area High School is moving steadily forward, with several key phases underway as the district prepares for a major push this summer. Throughout the building, crews are actively preparing for the installation of new HVAC units, which are scheduled to be installed during the summer break. This work is part of a larger HVAC upgrade that will provide more efficient heating and cooling throughout the high school, creating a more comfortable and climate-controlled environment for students and staff. The Large Group Instruction (LGI) room is nearing completion and is expected to be ready for use in the coming weeks. This new space will provide flexible learning and meeting opportunities for both students and faculty, adding a valuable resource to the building’s instructional capacity. Meanwhile, preparations are also underway for the next phase of construction. Work on the art and technology education wing is set to begin on May 1. This phase will modernize and expand instructional spaces for visual arts, industrial arts, and related programs—supporting hands-on, creative, and career-focused learning experiences. All construction remains on schedule, with full project completion expected by August 2025, just in time for the start of the new school year. The district is working closely with contractors and building staff to ensure minimal disruption to learning and building operations during the final stages of the project. We appreciate the patience and support of our students, staff, and families as we work to improve and update Grove City Area High School for the future.   Grove City Community Art Class Announces Exciting Collaboration with International Ceramic Artist Ido Ferber! Exciting Collaboration with International Ceramic Artist Ido Ferber! Grove City’s Community Art class is thrilled to welcome renowned ceramic artist Ido Ferber from March 21st to April 11th, 2025! This unique partnership, made possible by the Grove City Community Foundation's Jane Capron Promotion of the Arts Fund, offers an incredible opportunity for students, local community members, and aspiring artists to learn from Ido’s expertise in ceramics. As part of this exciting collaboration, the Community Art class provides hands-on, project-based learning experiences where students work together with peers and community members to create meaningful public art. This year, they will have the privilege of working alongside Ido, a ceramic artist with a rich background in blacksmithing, woodworking, and industrial design. Ido earned his MFA in Ceramics Craft from Tokyo University of the Arts and completed an apprenticeship with master potter Ken Matsuzaki, bringing a wealth of experience and cultural insight to the project. Students say Ido’s presence and knowledge has been inspiring. "It has been an artistic immersion of the ceramic world,” said senior Abby Perrine. “My skills are minimal, but this is still an incredible experience. Culturally it shows how versatile art is across all cultures." Senior Taryn Peterson called the visit, “a once in a lifetime experience.” Throughout his visit, Ido will share his passion and knowledge through workshops and lectures, culminating in a one-night exhibition on April 10th, 6-8 PM at Grove City College’s Pew Fine Arts Gallery! In addition to Community Art this collaboration also includes workshops at HopeCAT, Grove City College, and Slippery Rock University, celebrating art, culture, and community. The goal is to engage students in cultural exchange, meaningful art making, event planning and project management. Don’t miss this opportunity to be part of this transformative experience! #CommunityArt #GCASDProud #IdoFerber #CeramicArt #PublicArt #GroveCityCollege #HopeCAT #SlipperyRockUniversity #ArtAndCommunity   GCAHS Student Wins VSA Arts Prize Grove City Area High School Student Tyler McElroy recently received the Melanie R. Turner Creative Expressions Award in the VSA Arts competition sponsored by the Midwestern Intermediate Unit VI. VSA Arts is an international nonprofit organization affiliated with the education programs of the John F. Kennedy Center for Performing Arts in Washington D.C. Congratulations Tyler!   Grove City Area High School Rotary Students of the Month Congratulations to Daniel Mariacher and Lucas Geyer for being selected as the March Rotary Students of the Month! Lucas Geyer (senior) - Senior Lucas Guyer was selected as Student of the Month for his outstanding character and quick thinking during a recent emergency in the community. When an elderly man was injured in a bicycle accident, Lucas stopped to help without hesitation. He parked his truck to block traffic. Once EMS was called, Lucas loaded the man’s damaged bike into his truck and promised to deliver it safely to Grove City Area High School. Lucas demonstrated care, responsibility, and integrity in a difficult situation, showing exactly the kind of leadership and compassion we strive to develop in our students.  Daniel Mariacher (junior) - Daniel is an upstanding young man who is destined to make a positive difference in the world. As we have been working on projects in class, I have observed other students asking for his assistance, which he willingly gives. He is willing to help others for their benefit - a true sign of a future leader with integrity! As a Leader on the basketball and track teams, balances his academics and extracurriculars.   GCAMS Students of the Month Grove City Area Middle School Students of The Month for February 2025 are, from left, Carly Seivers (Grade 7), Olivia You (Grade 6), Logan Selker (Grade 6), Deonte Seelbaugh (Grade 8), Cruz Morrow (Grade 8), and Eden Husband (Grade 7)   GCAHS Unifed Bocce Team wins second place in Regional Championship The Grove City Unified Bocce Team placed second in the March 10 Regional Championships at Geneva College. As always, the team was competitive while demonstrating outstanding sportsmanship and representing GCASD with class and integrity.   Grove City Area High School Wrestlers honored by GCASD School Board for historic season Fresh off a successful run at the PIAA AA Wrestling Championships, the Grove City Area High School (GCAHS) wrestling team was recognized by the board of education for their outstanding performances, not only in the tournament but throughout the entire season. The Eagles, who finished fourth in the state as a team, sent five wrestlers to the state meet in Hershey. Four of the five earned medals with top-eight finishes, and junior Hudson Hohman placed second at 145 pounds. He was followed by freshman Chase Karenbauer, who finished third at 107 pounds. Fellow freshman Ian Stearns placed eighth at 114 pounds, while senior Cody Hamilton finished sixth at 152 pounds. Sophomore Tanner Hamilton also qualified for the state tournament at 133 pounds. Reaching the state finals with a school-record of five qualifiers and earning a record-setting four medals was the crowning achievement of a remarkable season. The Eagles also secured their first conference championship in more than 70 years. Additionally, they won Grove City’s own Fred Bell Tournament for the first time in nearly 20 years   Grove City Area High School Senior Jack Ogoreuc Wins Gold, Earns Quota for Junior Pan American Games Above photo: Grove City Area Senior Jack Ogoreuc (back row, middle) recently earned a gold medal as part of Team USA. Grove City Area High School senior Jack Ogoreuc earned a gold medal as part of Team USA at the 2025 1st Junior Championship of the Americas (CAT Games), held February 27–March 4 in Asuncion, Paraguay. Ogoreuc competed in the Junior Men’s 10m Air Rifle Team event alongside teammates Tyler Wee and Grayson Muller. The Junior Championship of the Americas brought together top junior athletes from North, South, and Central America. Ogoreuc was one of two U.S. shooters to earn a quota slot in Junior Men’s 10m Air Rifle, helping to ensure American representation in the event at this summer’s Pan American Games. The trio’s gold-medal finish also secured a quota slot for the United States in the Junior Men’s 10m Air Rifle event at the 2025 Junior Pan American Games, which will take place August 9–23 in Asuncion. Ogoreuc also earned an individual quota for the event based on his performance. This marked Ogoreuc’s first appearance in international competition as part of USA Shooting’s junior national team. Despite extreme heat conditions throughout the competition—daily temperatures inside the venue exceeded 100 degrees—Team USA’s rifle and pistol athletes claimed a total of eight medals and earned eight quota slots for the upcoming Pan Am Games. “Our athletes toughed it out and accomplished the main goal of earning our four quotas for the Junior Pan Am Games later this year,” said Peter Durben, USA Shooting’s national rifle coach. “Each athlete also came home with a medal. I am especially proud of those that represented the USA in an international event for the first time. Each had outstanding performances.” Ogoreuc, a highly decorated amateur shooter, will continue his academic and athletic career at West Virginia University in the fall. WVU is recognized as one of the top NCAA rifle programs in the nation. For more information about USA Shooting and the Junior Pan American Games, visit www.usashooting.org.     Required Forms All Kindergarten, 6th, & 11th graders are required to have a physical examination. Physical Form All Kindergarten, 3rd, 7th graders are required to have a dental examination. Dental Form  Student Updates Parents must complete yearly student updates in Infinite Campus. Infinite Campus Forms  Contact Information If you have any questions or concerns, please don't hesitate to contact us. (724) 458-6733 511 Highland Ave. Grove City, PA, 16127 Facebook: @Grove City Area School District Instagram: @gcasd.eagles X: @GCASDK12

Tuesday, Apr 08 2025

Eagle Spotlight: February 2025

​​ Eagle Spotlight News and updates from the Grove City Area School District February 21, 2026 ​​​​ ​​​ ​​ ​​ ​​ GCASD Cool Schools Polar Plunge is a Success! ​ Coach Jones and Coach Mulato led their 38-member Cool Schools Polar Plunge team from Grove City Area High School into the icy waters at Acuisure Stadium in Pittsburgh, raising over $2,300 in support of Unified Sports in our region! Teams taking part in the 2025 Three Rivers Region Cool Schools Plunge, have collectively raised close to $200,000 toward SOPA programming, making a tremendous impact on athletes and Unified Sports programs across the state. Over the past five years, Grove City teams have raised over $10,000 for Special Olympics Pennsylvania (SOPA). Every dollar raised has been put back into local Unified Sports programs, helping to create inclusive athletic opportunities for students of all abilities. The Cool Schools Polar Plunge brings together students from kindergarten through high school to raise funds and awareness for Special Olympics. Every year, thousands of plungers take the dip into freezing lakes and pools across Pennsylvania to support the 15,000+ Special Olympics Pennsylvania athletes. All the funds raised go toward providing FREE sports, health, and leadership programming for these athletes. More than 50 districts participated in Friday's event. ​​ ​​​ ​​​​ Spotlight: 2025-2026 Grove City Area High School Program of Studies ​​​​ ​​​​ Grove City Area High School is pleased to announce the release of the 2025-2026 Grove City High School Program of Studies! This guide provides detailed information about our course offerings, academic pathways, and the many opportunities available to students in the upcoming school year. New this year, you will find teacher introductions alongside many courses, as well as showcase videos that highlight several of our offerings. The Program of Studies includes interactive links, planning resources, and a student-created video that introduces key student-centered personnel, provides a glimpse into classrooms, and walks through important features of the guide. As you review the Program of Studies, we encourage thoughtful planning to ensure that course selections align with your academic goals and future aspirations. Our school counselors and faculty are available to assist with any questions and guide you through the course selection process. The Program of Studies can be accessed by clicking the link below. We recommend reviewing it together as a family. We are often asked about our course offerings, and we take great pride in the extensive options available to our students. Despite being a school of our size, we offer a robust selection of courses that not only fulfill graduation requirements, but also provide personalized pathways for students to explore their interests and future goals. Our course offerings and curriculum undergo continuous improvement, ensuring that we provide the best possible academic experience. While we acknowledge that no program is perfect, we strive for excellence and remain committed to refining and enhancing our offerings. Finally, please note that the Program of Studies is not just a one-time read—it is a living resource meant to be referenced throughout the school year. Additional information regarding course selection timelines and scheduling meetings will be shared in the coming weeks. Thank you for your continued support in making informed academic choices. We look forward to helping our students prepare for a successful 2025-2026 school year! ​​​​2025-26 Program of Studies​​​​ ​​​​ Principal's Recognition: Celebrating Student Leadership in the 2025-2026 Program of Studies Preview ​​​​ ​​​​ Mia Mertz in the Program of Studies Introduction video made by herself and Brayden Krenzer. ​​​​ Written by Dr. Brendan Smith GCASD Principal I am proud to recognize Brayden Krenzer and Mia Mertz for their outstanding work on a student-led video previewing our upcoming 2025-2026 High School Program of Studies. At my request, these two exceptional students combined their creativity, leadership, and diverse talents to produce a dynamic video that not only informs but also inspires their peers about the exciting opportunities ahead. Brayden Krenzer brings an impressive array of experiences to this project. As an Eagle Scout with two years on the CSO, Brayden is an active member of the Eagles swim team and serves as the captain of the YMCA swim team. Additionally, he holds a leadership role as Vice President of the AV Club and has excelled in both Mock Trial and Model UN. His achievements exemplify his commitment to excellence and community engagement. Mia Mertz also demonstrates remarkable leadership and versatility. As a varsity Bocce player for three years and an accomplished Thespian, Mia has honed her skills in performance and teamwork. Her active participation in Academic Games, Mock Trial, and Model UN, along with her involvement in Interact, Global Scholars, and Best Buddies, highlights her well-rounded approach to learning and leadership. Mia further enriches our community with her contributions to the arts and music through Marching Band, Jazz Band, and Extreme Leadership initiatives. The collaboration between Brayden and Mia in producing this video perfectly encapsulates the spirit of teamwork and creativity. By harnessing available resources and transforming innovative ideas into impactful realities, they have set a powerful example of student agency in action. Their work illustrates how partnering with experts can enhance our educational environment, resulting in win-win outcomes for the entire school community. Congratulations and thank you to Brayden and Mia for their creativity, dedication, and leadership. Their efforts not only preview an exciting academic year but also serve as an inspiring model for all students. ​​​​ ​​​​ GCAHS Winter Sports Roundup ​​​​ ​​​​ The GCAHS Boys Swim Team is rolling as the season heads into its final weeks. The team is undefeated and captured the D10 Regional Champtionship. ​​​ ​​ ​​ ​​ A Season of Records and Milestones ​ Several Grove City Area High School teams and athletes have hit several milestones this past winter. These include personal bests in their sport as well as commitments to continue their athletic careers in college. Boys Basketball Nathan Greer: Grove City Area High School all-time leading scorer. Committed to Slippery Rock university for football. Girls Basketball Izzie Gamble: 1,000 career points, 500 rebounds and ninth on the district's all-time scoring list. Committed to Grove City College.    Bocce  Qualified for the League Divisional Championships, Feb. 20 at GCAHS.  Competing for another Regional Championship Playoff berth which is held at Geneva College in March.   Indoor Track and Field  Jonah Stucchio: Indoor School Record and ranked fourth in the state in pole vault (14'7"). Indoor School Record and ninth in the state in triple jump (44' 8"). Aleah Morgante: Indoor School Record and sixth in the state in pole vault (12' 1"), Josie Jones: Indoor School Record and 18th in the state in 3200 Meter Run (11:48.43). Indoor School Record in 3000 Meters (10:50.69) Milena Sciullo: Second in the state for High Jump (5' 6") and second in the state in Triple Jump (38' 10.5"). Jesse Pazehoski - Indoor School Record in 60 Meter Hurdles (8.47 seconds). MJ Pottinger - Ranked 10th in the state in the 1600 meter run (4:26.01). Colsen Frank - Twentieth in the state in 1600 meter run (4:29.79). Sienna Bernardi: Twenty-third in the state Triple Jump (35' 7"). Boys Swimming Undefeated Season Won the Southern Tier Invitational.  D10 Region Champions Region 1 Champions Logan Osterwise: Committed to Niagara University.   Lucas McCreadie: Committed to Grove City College Wrestling Team placed first in Fred Bell Tournament  Cody Hamilton: GCAHS all-time wins record-holder. Hudson Hohman: 100 career wins. . ​​ ​​​ ​​​​ Nathan Greer, pictured with his parents on Senior Night, recently became GCAHS Boys Basketball all-time leading scorer. ​​​​ ​​​​ Hillview Elementary Unveils its New Climbing Wall ​​​​ ​​​ ​​ ​​ ​​ Students raised $38,000 during fall PTO fundraiser ​ Last fall, the Hillview Elementary School PTO held a fundraiser to pay for a climbing wall in the school’s gym. After that wall was officially unveiled to students at a Jan. 29 PBIS Assembly, the PTO’s next fundraiser will need to be for a new roof. Because students blew the roof off the old one. ​​ ​​​Click to Read More​​​​ ​​​​ Rotary Students of the Month for February ​​​​ ​​​​ Congratulations to Grove City Area High School Rotary Students of the Month Liza Jeffries and Madison Mulato Liza Jeffris (sophomore) - Liza is a student of great character who consistently demonstrates humility and maturity and prioritizes others over self. She maintains excellent grades while balancing a busy extra-curricular schedule, and does so with grace, enthusiasm, and a smile on her face. Madison Mulato (junior) - Madison's role in community art and with the Bocce team reveal that she's not only a person of action, but someone who puts service above self. Even her thesis paper in British Literature reveals her others-focus. She is quiet, but clearly someone whose presence is having a positive impact on others. ​​​​ ​​​​ Middle School Students of the Month ​​​​ ​​​​ Grove City Area Middle School is proud to announce its Students of the Month for January. Pictured are (front row from left) 7th grade: Sydney Jackson, 6th Grade: Clarissa Bable, 6th Grade: Casey Rihel. Pictured are (back row from left) 8th Grade: Jayla Walters, 7th Grade: Efraim Moeller, 8th Grade: Gavin Alessio. ​​​​ ​​​​ ​​​​ ​​​​ GCAHS students use their Independent Learning Plans to teach younger students to love reading ​ This summer, students Alexis Bishop and Arden Anderson approached high school principal, Dr. Brendan Smith with a bold idea. They wanted to create a program that makes reading a source of enjoyment rather than a chore. Recognizing the potential impact of partnering with a lower grade level, they set out to inspire a love for literature among younger students. To refine their vision, they met with experts—including Dr. Constance Nichols, department chair of the Grove City College Education Department and School Board member, and Ms. Karyn Senita, French World Language teacher and advisor to the Interact Club. Their proactive approach is an excellent example of students accessing their own agency by connecting with expert resources to move their idea forward. ​​​​Click Here to Read More​​​​ ​​​​ Extra, Extra, Read All About It!!!! ​​​​ ​​​​ Introducing the Textbook Times, Your Student Newspaper ​ Written By Paul Potter Textbook Times Editor-in-Chief I am excited to introduce our students, parents and the community to the Textbook Times, a student-run newspaper operating right here at GCAHS. Our team is made up of enthusiastic students who are dedicated to bringing you interesting and important news. I am the editor-in-chief. I want to make sure that our articles are well-written and connect with all of you. Aevan McCurry is our awesome web designer and manager, working hard to keep our website looking great and easy to use. Then there’s Michael Adams, who we like to call Tater Tot. He focuses on reviews and reporting, adding a fun twist to our stories. Finally, we have Riley Sansom, our senior reporter, who has a great eye for detail and knows how to tell a good story. Even though we’ve only been around for about five months, we’re proud to say we’ve already published nearly 20 issues! You can find our work in both physical print and online. Each issue is created with the goal of keeping you informed about what’s happening at GCHS. We believe you deserve to know the news that matters, whether it’s updates on school events, highlights of student achievements, or thought-provoking opinion pieces. We want to cover a variety of topics that are important to you and your classmates. As we continue to grow, we’re always looking for new ideas and contributions from students like you. If you have a passion for writing, photography, or design, we’d love for you to get involved! The Textbook Times isn’t just a newspaper. It’s a place for students to share their voices and stories. We believe everyone has something valuable to say, and we want to help you share it. If you have questions or want to submit a story a story idea, please email me at potterpaul@gcasdk12.org So, whether you’re a seasoned writer or someone who has never written anything outside of school assignments, we invite you to join us on this exciting adventure. Together, we can create a newspaper that truly represents the spirit of GCHS and serves as a helpful resource for all students. Thank you for your support, and we can’t wait to bring you more exciting content in the future! ​​​​ ​​​​ ​​​​ It's time for Kindergarten Registration ​ Grove City Area School District will hold kindergarten registration for children who are age 5 on or before September 1, 2024 (GCASD Board Policy 201). Registration will occur by scheduled appointments at Hillview Elementary School, 482 East Main Street, Grove City PA 16127. Once you have completed the necessary paperwork and all required documents have been submitted, we will contact you to schedule a time for your child to come in and complete the screening portion of kindergarten registration. If you plan to enroll your child in kindergarten in the fall of 2025, please go to the following website to enroll your Kindergarten student by clicking the link below. Click on the school year you are registering for. Items that you will be required to produce are as follows: 1. Birth certificate 2. Drivers License 3. Proof of residency - 2 forms 4. Proof of guardianship if not natural parents 5. Immunizations * If you already have children enrolled in the school district, you can log-in to your account on the Infinite Campus Portal to register your incoming kindergarten student. You must be the primary contact and follow these steps: 1. Login to the Infinite Campus Portal 2. Choose More on the left side of the screen 3. Choose Registration and Verification 4. Choose 2025-2026 New Student Registration and click on Start 5. Follow the instructions and submit your application after all information is completed. The required documents can be uploaded directly during the registration process. If you need assistance with this process, please contact Mrs. Dawn Guy at 724-458-6733 ext. 2128 or dawn.guy@gcasdk12.org. She will arrange a time to assist you with this process. Please complete the online portion of the registration process by March 31, 2025. Once complete, you will receive an invitation to sign-up for in-person Kindergarten registration. In-person registration will be held from 3:00 pm - 8:00 pm on Tuesday, April 15, 2025. If you have any questions regarding the online registration process in Infinite Campus, please contact Mrs. Guy at the email or phone number above. If you have any questions on signing up for in-person Kindergarten registration after completing the online process, please contact Mrs. Williams at (724) 458-7570 or peg.williams@gcasdk12.org. ​​​​Click for Registration​​​​ ​​​​ An Update on Enhancing Student Advisory Period ​​​​ Written by Dr. Brendan Smith GCAHS Principal As part of our ongoing efforts to enhance student learning and personal growth, we continue to refine the C-Day Advisory Period. Our goal is to create a structured, meaningful experience that fosters student agency, provides academic support, and strengthens mentor relationships between students and teachers. Enhancing Advisory: Through recent focus group discussions, we have explored ways to strengthen Advisory, guided by the following key questions: How can we help students develop independence and take ownership of their learning? How can we personalize Advisory while maintaining consistency? What structures and supports best help students succeed? Additionally, we are examining research on student-teacher relationships to ensure Advisory is both engaging and effective. Key Enhancements to Advisory Since the pandemic, we have continuously refined our approach to better support students. We are implementing intentional improvements in three key areas: Academic Assistance, Individualized Learning Plans (ILPs), and Strengthening Student-Teacher Connections. Advisory is more than just academic support—it is about fostering meaningful relationships that empower students. Our focus includes: Providing teachers with flexibility to engage students in ways that best support their growth. Encouraging advisors to act as mentors, guiding students while fostering independence. Ensuring that students actively participate in their academic journey rather than passively receiving support. We recognize that developing student agency is a balance—offering support while allowing students to take responsibility for their learning. Our goal is to hold students steady on their "bike" until they are ready to pedal forward on their own. We appreciate your continued support as we work to provide the best learning environment for our students. We will keep you updated as we refine Advisory throughout this year and prepare for the 2025-2026 school year. ​​​​ ​​​​ ​​​​ Refining Our Lunch and Learn Program: A Commitment to Student Growth ​ Written by Dr. Brendan C. Smith Grove City Area High School Principal I am excited to share an update on our Lunch and Learn program—a structured yet flexible framework designed to provide students with academic support, enrichment opportunities, and personal development resources. Since its inception, Lunch and Learn has empowered students to take ownership of their learning, seek assistance when needed, and engage in meaningful educational experiences beyond the traditional classroom setting. As we continue refining this initiative, we recognize the importance of ongoing assessment and improvement. This year, we are intentionally evaluating its current structure to ensure it remains a dynamic and effective tool for student success. ​​​​Click here to read more​​​​ ​​​​ Plethora of Musical Offerings are about to spring up across the District ​​​​ ​​​​ Get ready for a season of music and performance as our students showcase their talents in the upcoming Spring Musical, Choral, and Band Concerts! The High School Musical will take the stage March 27-29, with a special dress rehearsal on March 26 for faculty and invited guests. In May, our choral and band students from grades 6-12 will perform in a series of concerts, highlighting their hard work and musical growth. Stay tuned for additional events, including the Thespians Coffee House and Jazz Band Concert. Mark your calendars and join us in celebrating our students' dedication to the arts! ​​​​Spring Music Schedule​​​​ ​​​​ Grove City Area High School Senior Earns Rank of Eagle Scout ​​​​ ​​​​ Honor folllows years of dedicated service to Scouting ​ Deven Flick, a senior at Grove City Area High School and a member of Grove City Troop 76, has recently been awarded the rank of Eagle Scout rank. He has been involved in Scouts BSA (formerly Boy Scouts of America) since he was in the Cub Scout program as a third grader.  The Cub Scout program is parent- led for grades K-5 and centered around fun enriching activities and badges for each grade level. In 5th grade, the “Arrow of Light” candidates have a cross-over ceremony into the local Boy Scout troop of their choosing.   The Scouts BSA program is more youth-led with a focus on leadership, skill development, and outdoor activities as the scout progress through various ranks. There are specific advancement criteria and board of reviews at each rank level, as well as required badges.   To qualify for Eagle Scout rank, the scouts must earn a minimum of 21 badges and complete an approved Eagle Scout project that benefits the local community in some manner. Of the 21 badges needed, 14 are required for the Eagle rank and include first aid, life-saving, citizenship in society, and emergency preparedness, Through the Scout program, Deven has developed a love and appreciation of the outdoors, practical emergency skills and has experienced significant personal growth. As he moved through the program, his favorite parts of scouting were hiking and summer camp. Deven especially enjoyed earning merit badges in Swimming, Robotics, and Welding. His Eagle Scout project involved building bat boxes at Grove city Memorial Park, to provide a habitat for the local bat population.  Deven’s plans after high school include obtaining an associate’s degree in computer programming. Once complete, he is considering enlistment into the United States Space Force.  For more information on the local troop: https://m.facebook.com/grovecitytroop76 ​​​​ ​​​​ March 19 is Hillview Math and Reading Night ​​​​ ​​​​ ​​​​ Required Forms ​​​​ All Kindergarten, 6th, & 11th graders are required to have a physical examination. ​​​​Physical Form​​​​ All Kindergarten, 3rd, 7th graders are required to have a dental examination. ​​​​Dental Form​​​​ ​​​​ Student Updates ​​​​ Parents must complete yearly student updates in Infinite Campus. ​​​​Infinite Campus Forms​​​​ ​​​​ Contact Information ​​​ ​​ If you have any questions or concerns, please don't hesitate to contact us. (724) 458-6733 511 Highland Ave. Grove City, PA, 16127 Facebook: @Grove City Area School District Instagram: @gcasd.eagles X: @GCASDK12 ​​ ​​ ​​ ​

Friday, Feb 21 2025

Eagle Spotlight: January 2025

​​ Eagle Spotlight News and updates from the Grove City Area School District January 24, 2026 ​​​​ ​​​​ Above: GCASD Board President Ryan Thomas congratulates Dr. Joshua Weaver ​​​​ GCASD Board Selects Dr. Joshua Weaver as District’s Next Superintendent ​ January 13, 2025: Grove City, PA -- The GCASD Board of Education has selected Dr. Joshua Weaver to be the district’s next superintendent. Dr. Weaver has served as the GCASD Assistant Superintendent since May 2016. He will replace Dr. Jeffrey Finch, who announced his retirement in December. Weaver, who signed a five-year contract, will begin his commission July 1. ​​​​Click to Read More​​​​ ​​​​ Middle School Students channel their inner-Edisons at Inventionland ​​​​ ​​​​ District Winners Move on to Regional competition in May ​ On Thursday, January 9, Grove City Middle School 8th grade Inventionland students presented the products that they have been working on since the start of the school year. In the Inventionland course, students are exposed to the extensive process of bringing a product to life.  In this course, students learn about teamwork, design, research, technology, problem solving, marketing, finances, public speaking, and so much more! Three area judges spent the day viewing the presentations for 27 different products. ​​​​Click to Read More​​​​ ​​​​ District Spotlight ​​​ ​​ ​​ ​​ GCASD's Collaborative Approach to Education, Leadership is Earning Recognition ​ Grove City Area School District is gaining recognition across Pennsylvania and, now, into Maryland for its adoption of an innovative program that gives teachers a bigger role in decision- making. Through a partnership with the National Center on Education and the Economy (NCEE), the district has developed a leadership model that places teachers at the heart of solving problems and driving innovation. Amy Morton, a system design specialist with NCEE, has worked closely with Grove City schools and sees their success as a gold standard of sorts. “The culture there promotes empowered teachers to make informed decisions,” Morton says. “There’s a mutual respect ​​ ​​​Click to Read More​​​​ ​​​​ Rotary Students of the Month for January ​​​​ ​​​​ Congratulations to Ella Duda and Miles Gardner for being voted as the January Students of the Month!  Ella Duda, senior: Ella worked tirelessly in her ILP for forensics last year because of a negative experience she had. When approached about making forensics a course at the high school, Ella poured everything she had into helping design a new course for future generations of students to take. Ella has come in during the summer, weekends, or early mornings to help Mr. Logan with the courtyard, turkey pens, bees, animal processing, etc. She really buys into the concept of truly learning something versus earning points and sacrifices her time and efforts to help ensure opportunities for other students not only in the present, but in the future as well. Miles Gardner, freshman: Miles is a person of action. He works hard. He is cheerful and tough and brightens the day for those around him. He has jumped into life as a new student at GCAHS, volunteers with Interact. As a freshman, he is already making a name for himself as a kind and reliable person as well as a hard worker. ​​​​ ​​​​ ​​​​ GCAHS Alum Matt Lucas speaks to students Jan. 23 about his job in virtual production development. ​​​​ GCAHS Alum Gives Students a Virtual Tour of a Working Film Production Studio ​ Students active in the yearbook, thespians, and video production classes got to take a virtual tour of a Hollywood film studio thanks to GCAHS grad, Matt Lucas. Lucas is the Technical Director & Head of Narrative Development at L.A. Castle Studios. One of Lucas' main focus is virtual production development. Instead of painted backdrops or elaborate, expensive set pieces, Lucas develops complete 3-D worlds on a green screen. "We try to make it look like we are shooting in the real world, Lucas said. "It's a virtual location shoot." Lucas explained how the sets are made and showed them a live demonstration of how it works. ​​​​ ​​​​ ​​​​ ​​​ ​​ ​​ ​​ GCASD Food Services receives grant to source local beef ​ The Food & Nutrition Services department has received a grant from the PA Beef Council to provide fresh local beef from McCall Farms in Franklin, PA. We will be featuring sirloin tips in Steak Fajitas and Beef & Broccoli Lo Mein. Fresh ground beef will be featured in the Egg Roll Skillet Bowl and homemade Lasagna. Finally, shaved beef will be featured in the new Philly Cheese Steak Hoagie. These tasty new menu items will be served at the High School and Middle School this school year.  The PA Beef to PA Schools program works to connect schools and their food service professionals to cattle producers in order to 'Beef-up' their school lunches. By doing so, schools are providing beef more often and sourcing beef from local producers. The effort helps to fight food insecurity as well as supporting local farms and the opportunity to connect the local community with the PA Beef Industry.  Follow @GCASDNUTRITION on Twitter for updates from the food and nutrition services Department. ​​ ​​​ ​​​​ Staff Spotlight: Barb Lucido ​​​​ ​​​​ Mrs. Barb Lucido, the guidance secretary at Grove City High School, was recently honored by the Air Force for her incredible work supporting students and helping them connect with the Air Force Recruiting Service. Technical Sergeant Jarrod Cresswell recognized her dedication, and it’s easy to see why. For years, Mrs. Lucido has gone above and beyond to help students find their paths, whether through college visits, athletic recruitment, or military careers. ​​​​Click to Read More​​​​ ​​​​ ​​​​ 2025-2026 Program of Studies: Coming Soon! ​ The final preparations for the 2025-2026 Program of Studies are nearly complete! This vital resource will be officially released to students and families in early February. The Program of Studies is designed to assist students and their families in planning their educational journey through high school, ensuring that all Grove City Area High School students are well-prepared for college and career success. ​​​​Click to Read More​​​​ ​​​​ GCAHS Thespians Seeking Sponsors for Musical ​​​​ ​​​​ ​​​​ ​​​​ Getting Behind the Wheel: Driver’s Education Courses at GCAHS    At Grove City High School, preparing students for the road goes beyond the classroom with two essential steps: the Driver’s Education Course and the Behind the Wheel Training Program. Together, these opportunities provide the knowledge, skills, and experience students need to become safe and confident drivers. ​​​​Click to Read More​​​​ ​​​​ ​​​ ​​ ​​ ​​ Learning about Financial Literacy ​ Thank you to the Grove City Area Federal Credit Union for working with Mr. Bandi's Financial Literacy students last week! They hosted a Financial Reality Fair in which the students had to make life decisions based on a set salary and financial obligations. It was a great way to wrap up Mr. Bandi's semester class which covers these important life skills ​​ ​​​ ​​​​ ​​​​ GCAHS Students win awards in Pa. School Press Association contest ​ Students in the Advanced Video Class were tasked with making a 2.5 minute video with the theme “Broadcast News”. The video was submitted to a PSPA (Pa School Press Association) contest that was open to high school video students from across the state. After scripting, filming, editing and finally submitting their video via the GCVideo youtube channel, the students attended the regional PSPA Communication and Media Expo at SRU on Nov 1st. The group of Nellie Cahill, Keira Podelyon, and Skylar Mason recently found out that their video placed 5th in the state and they are now eligible to go to the state finals at Penn State Main on April 1st. Students on the Yearbook staff also competed in the regional competition. Freshman Merynne Hemmerlin took 1st place in the “Yearbook Sports Writing” competition and will also be advancing to the state final at PSU on April 1st. Freshman Evelyn Reiber took 3rd place in the same event, and junior Lyla Werhnyak took 5th. ​​​​ ​​​​ ​​​ ​​ ​​ ​​ Grove City Unified Bocce season gets underway ​ The Grove City Unified Bocce team won its first match of the year Jan.9 against Franklin High School. ​​ ​​​ ​​​​ ​​​​ GCASD Recognizes Board Directors for hard work, dedication ​ On Jan. 13, GCASD recognized the outstanding work and dedication of our school directors as part of School Director Recognition Month. School board directors are elected to govern and make informed decisions on behalf of our public schools, for the benefit of our students and communities. In honor of their time and dedication all year long, January is designated School Director Recognition Month. As public servants, school directors devote, on average, 10 hours each month to board business. From voting on budgets to adopting policy to conducting comprehensive planning, school boards make key decisions that drive public education in a complex and changing environment. Board service is unpaid, and school directors are often motivated to pursue the role out of a desire to benefit their community. The vast majority of school directors indicated their primary reason for serving is to give back or contribute to public education, or to improve educational outcomes for students. About 41% of school directors serve the district they once attended as a student and almost all are parents of students who attend or attended the district they serve. They are our neighbors, co-workers, fellow parents and friends. When our public schools are strong, our whole community is strengthened. This month, recognize your school directors for their commitment and effort. Support these public servants by showing your appreciation for all they do to help our students and schools succeed. Thank you GCASD School Board Members: Randy Arnold Dr. Erik Bardy (Not Pictured) Karen Hazy Bishop Douglas Gerwick Augie Hurst Dr. Connie Nichols Dr. Jeffrey Tedford Ryan Thomas Patty Wilson . ​​​​ ​​​​ Required Forms ​​​​ All Kindergarten, 6th, & 11th graders are required to have a physical examination. ​​​​Physical Form​​​​ All Kindergarten, 3rd, 7th graders are required to have a dental examination. ​​​​Dental Form​​​​ ​​​​ Student Updates ​​​​ Parents must complete yearly student updates in Infinite Campus. ​​​​Infinite Campus Forms​​​​ ​​​​ Contact Information ​​​ ​​ ​​ ​​ If you have any questions or concerns, please don't hesitate to contact us. (724) 458-6733 511 Highland Ave. Grove City, PA, 16127 Facebook: @Grove City Area School District Instagram: @gcasd.eagles X: @GCASDK12 ​​ ​

Monday, Jan 27 2025

Eagle Spotlight: December 2024

​ ​ Eagle Spotlight News and updates from the Grove City Area School District December 16, 2024 ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ GCASD's High School and Middle School Bands kick off the season with holiday concerts ​ ​ ​ ​ Click for more Concert Photos ​ ​ ​ ​   ​ ​ ​ ​ Department Spotlight: Food Services ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ A Dedicated Food Services Staff nourishes GCASD students with Care and Commitment ​ In the Grove City Area School District, the Food Services Department serves more than just meals—it delivers nutrition, wellness education, and community support. Under the leadership of Jennifer Reiser, a Licensed and Registered Dietitian and Nutritionist, the program prioritizes fresh, balanced meals while teaching students lifelong healthy eating habits. Reiser’s passion for student wellness is evident in every aspect of the district’s food service program. “Our goal is to provide students with quality, fresh, healthy, and well-balanced meals,” she explained. “We focus on color, balance, and portion size—three essential lessons that help students make healthier choices throughout their lives.” ​ ​ ​ ​ Read More Here ​ ​ ​ ​   ​ ​ ​ ​ GCAHS Fitness Center Fundraising Update ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ We wanted to take some time to both update and thank the community for all of the interest in and support for the new state-of-the-art fitness center project planned for the high school. Thanks to our community, we have raised more than one-third of the money needed to complete the project. The deadline for the campaign is January 31 and we still have a way to go in order to reach our goal. We have several patronage options available, from one-time donations to several sponsorship options. Please follow the link below to read more about the project and how to donate. ​ ​ ​ ​ Follow for more Information ​ ​ ​ ​   ​ ​ ​ ​ GCAHS Christmas Concert Schedule ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​   ​ ​ ​ ​ Faculty Spotlight: Tyler Cathcart, Hillview Elementary ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ Hillview Physical Education Teacher Having Success as Ultramarathon Runner ​ In October, Mr. Tyler Cathcart, a Health and Physical Education teacher at Hillview Elementary School, decided to take a little run in the woods. Well, it wasn’t a casual run, it was race and the distance was 100 KM – just a bit over 62 miles! Mr. Cathcart finished the race in 13 hours, 44 minutes and won third place! Earlier that year, he earned a second-place finish at the Fools Trail Race 50K in Peninsula, Ohio, with a time of 4 hours, 45 minutes, and 17 seconds. Besides teaching his students, one of Mr. Cathcart’s other loves is ultramarathon running. A normal marathon is roughly 26 miles in length. An ultramarathon is usually a minimum of 31 miles, but distances can go up to as much as 3,000 miles, which takes place over several days. ​ ​ ​ ​ Read More ​ ​ ​ ​   ​ ​ ​ ​ High School Band and Choral Rooms Receive Renovation Upgrade ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ Grove City Area High School is proud to announce the completion of renovations to its band and choral rooms, marking a significant step forward in enhancing the learning environment for our talented musicians. The transition from the auditorium to the newly renovated space began on Tuesday, December 10. The new facilities now include: Three dedicated practice rooms for individual and small group rehearsals. One office for faculty use. A large group practice room designed to accommodate ensembles. Improved acoustics, soundproofing, and expanded square footage, providing a superior space for instruction and practice. Enhanced lighting and a state-of-the-art sound system, ensuring an optimal learning and performance environment. ​ ​ ​ ​ Read More Here ​ ​ ​ ​ Future Teachers Help Current Students At Hillview Elementary with Outreach Program ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ Hillview Elementary School recently got a colorful makeover. This change was led by members of the Student Pennsylvania State Education Association (PSEA), guided by their Midwestern Regional President, Vanessa Huth. Huth is a senior at Slippery Rock University, studying Early Childhood Education and Special Education. The project was part of the “Outreach to Teach” program, where future teachers work together to improve schools. Originally, the plan was to do this during the state Student PSEA conference. However, scheduling changes made it hard for some students to join. Vanessa saw this as a chance to include the project in the Rock Solid Educators Conference, a regional PSEA event, ensuring it would still happen. Grove City Area School District's Assistant Superintendent, Dr. Joshua Weaver was also a conference presenter. Hillview Elementary was chosen after the group reached out to several schools. “We contacted several schools, and Hillview was the first to respond,” Huth said. She and her team worked closely with Principal, Dr. Tammi Martin to find out what the school needed. They asked, “What would you like to see that you don’t have now or needs updating?” and planned projects that were doable in a day. ​ ​ ​ ​ Read More Here ​ ​ ​ ​   ​ ​ ​ ​ Hillview Elementary Students Shop in Santa's Workshop sponsored by PTO ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ While Santa's North Pole workshop is entering its busiest time of the year, his workshop at Hillview Elementary School the week of December 9 was also hopping. Students in all grades got time to shop for gifts for their friends, parents, brothers, sisters and even their pets. The workshop was sponsored by the Hillview PTO. Additional funds were also raised to make sure everyone got the chance to do some holiday shopping. ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​   ​ ​ ​ ​ Rotary Students of the Month for December ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ Congratulations to the Rotary Students of the Month for December -- seniors Elle Myford and Boston Tkacik. Elle is the Interact President, Junior Council Member with the Grove City Borough, and Extreme Leadership participant. Boston is president of the Thespians Society, leader in the marching band, and is a regionally recognized chorister through PMEA. Both students demonstrate their commitment to the Rotary’s Motto of “Service Above Self.”.  ​ ​ ​ ​   ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ Cope with holiday stress by taking the 10-Day Self-Care Challenge ​ ​ ​ ​ As you rush around this holiday season, decorating your house, making cookies and looking for that perfect gift for the people in your life, Grove City Area Middle School Counselor Erin Persch says make sure you give yourself a little gift every day. A little self-care. "Contrary to common belief, one effective way to cope with the holiday madness is to slow down and take a little time each day to cultivate and practice mindfulness,” Persch said.  ​ ​ ​ ​ Read More Here ​ ​ ​ ​   ​ ​ ​ ​ GCASD introducing Chromebook Buy-Back program for 9th-grade students ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ The Grove City Area School District is introducing a Chromebook buy-back program for current 9th-grade students. This initiative allows your child to keep the Chromebook issued at the start of their freshman year until graduation. At the end of their senior year, you have the option to purchase the device for $50. Throughout high school, the Chromebook will be assigned to your child, promoting continuity in their learning experience. Each year, the device must be returned for inspection, maintenance, and cleaning to ensure it remains in good condition. Additionally, an annual Protection Plan Fee of $25 is required, totaling $100 over four years. This fee covers potential repairs and upkeep. The buy-back program is exclusive to the current 9th-grade class. Devices issued to upperclassmen were purchased with federal funds and are not eligible for this program. While there's no obligation to decide on purchasing the Chromebook now, the district aims to inform you early to assist in future planning. If you have questions or need more information, please contact Judy Dennis, GCASD Director of Technology, at judy.dennis@gcasdk12.org. For more details on the district's technology initiatives and Chromebook policies, please visit the GCASD Technology Department's webpage. ​ ​ ​ ​   ​ ​ ​ ​ Hillview Kindergarten Students head Down to the Farm ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ Our kindergarteners recently enjoyed a memorable trip to Irishtown Acres, marking our second annual visit to the Paxton Family’s welcoming farm. This special experience serves as the perfect introduction to our Module 2 Reading Unit: Once Upon a Farm. During the visit, students explored the wonders of farm life, gaining firsthand experiences that connect directly to the stories they’ll encounter in the classroom.  ​ ​ ​ ​ Read More Here ​ ​ ​ ​   ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ Middle School Students of the Month ​ ​ ​ ​ Grove City Area Middle School has named its November Students of the Month. They are (back from left): Anna Rendos, 8th grade ; Johnathan House, 8th grade; Nate Keller, 7th grade; (front from left) Nate Giddings, 6th Grade Madi McCall, 6th grade. Not pictured: Aleeyah Shetter. ​ ​ ​ ​   ​ ​ ​ ​ Pittsburgh Pirates In-Game Announcer Joe Klimchak to Speak to Students Dec. 19 ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ Joe Klimchak the In-game host of the Pittsburgh Pirates will speak to our student body on Thursday December 19. Joe energizes and inspires others by sharing his personal story of how an ordinary kid with a speech impediment landed his dream job as an announcer in a Major League Baseball ballpark. Through relatable examples, Joe shows how grit, perseverance and having a heart for others help make the impossible possible. Klimchak was featured in a 2020 Newsweek article. It read in part: "Most boys and girls abandoned their childhood sports dreams in their teens. Not Klimchak. Year after year, he studied the great announcers: Harry Carey, Vin Scully and others. He studied their vocal tones, their cadences and musicality, and imitated them every chance he could. Always in search of an audience, Klimchak performed for his two sisters through an air duct separating their childhood bedrooms." ​ ​ ​ ​   ​ ​ ​ ​ Hillview Elementary Holds Penny War to Raise Money for NC Hurricane Victims ​ ​ ​ ​ Hillview Elementary School recently held a "Penny War" to help people in North Carolina affected by Hurricane Helene. The idea started when Mr. Scherer, a kindergarten teacher at Hillview, felt a strong urge to assist the hurricane victims. He noticed that, even though many were still without homes and basic needs, the news had stopped talking about their struggles. At the same time, a teacher from a nearby school district was getting ready to go to Burnsville, North Carolina, to volunteer. These events inspired Hillview's staff to take action. They created a video to raise awareness and organized a "Penny War" fundraiser. In a "Penny War," students bring in spare change to donate. Classes compete to see who can collect the most pennies, making it a fun and engaging way to raise money. The students, teachers, and families at Hillview showed incredible generosity. Together, they raised over $2,000. With the money collected, the school purchased essential supplies for the hurricane victims. They sent heaters, fuel, sleeping bags suitable for temperatures as low as 20 degrees below zero, and rain suits. These items were crucial in providing comfort and warmth to those who had lost so much. This effort not only provided much-needed help to the hurricane victims but also taught Hillview students the importance of kindness and community service. By coming together, they made a significant difference in the lives of others, demonstrating that even small acts of generosity can have a big impact. ​ ​ ​ ​   ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ High School Faculty Explore College Credit Opportunities with Butler Community College ​ ​ ​ ​ Grove City High School faculty recently welcomed Jim Frank, Assistant Director of High School Programming at Butler County Community College, as a guest presenter. Mr. Frank introduced the faculty to the College’s College Now and College in the High School programs, which provide students the opportunity to earn college credits while still in high school. During his presentation, Mr. Frank outlined the key differences between the two programs. Both options offer students the chance to explore college-level courses and programs before fully committing to a college path. Additional benefits include the ability to transfer earned credits to a four-year institution, significant cost savings through community college tuition rates, and early exposure to college-level expectations and coursework. As we continue to explore this partnership, we will work closely with Mr. Frank to assess how these programs could fit within our current academic framework. We are committed to keeping families and students informed about these exciting opportunities and the potential benefits for their future education. Stay tuned for further updates on this initiative! ​ ​ ​ ​   ​ ​ ​ ​ Focus Group to examine Lunch and Learn Program ​ ​ ​ ​ As part of our ongoing commitment to continuous improvement, Grove City High School is excited to announce that a focus group of teachers, staff, and administrators will be examining the current state of our Lunch and Learn program. This collaborative effort will evaluate systems for targeted academic support, identify efficiencies, and explore areas for improvement to maximize the impact of the supports and programs we offer. Stay tuned for updates as we work together to enhance this valuable resource for our students! ​ ​ ​ ​   ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ Grove City Senior Jack Ogoreuc sets National Record ​ ​ ​ ​ Grove City Senior and West Virginia University commit, Jack Ogoreuc was recently notified that he broke an NRA national smallbore shooting record during a September competition. The record stood for 15 years. In January, Ogoreuc will travel to compete in Germany and Austria, representing Team USA. It’s been a big year for the senior, who also recently signed a national letter of intent to continue his shooting career at West Virginia University. WVU has one of the premiere collegiate shooting programs in the country. They have won 19 NCAA titles in the program’s history. They placed second in 2024. ​ ​ ​ ​   ​ ​ ​ ​ Deadline to order GCAHS Yearbooks is Dec. 31 ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ Order Yearbooks Here ​ ​ ​ ​   ​ ​ ​ ​ Required Forms ​ ​ ​ ​ All Kindergarten, 6th, & 11th graders are required to have a physical examination. ​ ​ ​ ​ Physical Form ​ ​ ​ ​ All Kindergarten, 3rd, 7th graders are required to have a dental examination. ​ ​ ​ ​ Dental Form ​ ​ ​ ​   ​ ​ ​ ​ Student Updates ​ ​ ​ ​ Parents must complete yearly student updates in Infinite Campus. ​ ​ ​ ​ Infinite Campus Forms ​ ​ ​ ​   ​ ​ ​ ​ Contact Information ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ If you have any questions or concerns, please don't hesitate to contact us. (724) 458-6733 511 Highland Ave. Grove City, PA, 16127 Facebook: @Grove City Area School District Instagram: @gcasd.eagles X: @GCASDK12 ​ ​ ​

Monday, Dec 16 2024

Eagle Spotlight: Pupil Services

​ ​ Eagle Spotlight News and updates from the Grove City Area School District November 13, 2024 ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ The Champs Are Here! ​ ​ ​ ​ GCASD is incredibly proud of our boy's cross country team for winning its second PIAA Class AA Championship on November 2. It's the team's second state championship in three years. Students who participated in the state finals were MJ Pottinger, Colsen Frank, Isaiah Stauff, Miles Jenny, Tim Sabella, Charlie Jaskowak, Ira Graham, Logan Leskanic, Harrison Saltick, George Sabella, Josie Jones and Ava Hannon. ​ ​ ​ ​   ​ ​ ​ ​ Department Spotlight: Pupil Services ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ When you think about all the moving parts that make a school district run, you may not, at first glance, think about the Pupil Services Department. But the fact is, the department makes a meaningful difference in the lives of students and families every day.  Headed by Director Jennifer Connelly, the department is a hub of essential support programs aimed at both academic success and overall well-being. The department’s mission goes beyond just classroom education; it’s about ensuring that each student has what they need to feel supported and prepared for school, regardless of their personal circumstances.  “We oversee a lot of different areas here,” Connelly explained. “From guidance, nursing, and social work to services for English language learners and support for economically disadvantaged or unhoused students, our goal is to address the whole student." ​ ​ ​ ​ Read More Here ​ ​ ​ ​   ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ GCAHS Welding Program gets off to a fast start after an uncertain future ​ ​ ​ ​ In the Grove City Area High School welding workshop, eight students work on their projects and their skills. Some are finishing up metal cowboy hats, a project idea the students got off of TikTok, others are practicing both basic and difficult welding techniques. It’s a busy place. Sparks are flying at each work station as students move around to different stations. They check each other’s work and share advice. It’s like any other vocational education workshop. Well, except for the fact that this one didn’t even exist roughly two months ago. ​ ​ ​ ​ Read More Here ​ ​ ​ ​   ​ ​ ​ ​ Consider a donation to GCASD Fitness Center Project for Giving Tuesday Campaign ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ Fundraising for Grove City Area High School's new state-of-the-art fitness center is well underway. The fitness center will be a cornerstone for our school’s physical education, wellness, and athletic programs, providing: Modern Exercise Equipment: A diverse range of cardio and strength machines to support every fitness level. Multi-Use Spaces: Flexible areas for group classes, team training, and wellness workshops. Accessibility Features: Inclusive design elements to ensure everyone in our community can benefit from the facility. Starting Nov. 13, we are launching our Giving Tuesday fund drive. Giving Tuesday, this year on Dec. 3, is a global initiative that encourages people and organizations to donate their time and money to charitable causes on the Tuesday following Thanksgiving in the United States. Between November 13 and Dec. 3, we are hoping to raise $10,000 toward our goal of $145,000. From monetary donations to naming rights recognition, there are many ways to help this worthwhile project. Please click below to read more about the project and ways that you can donate. ​ ​ ​ ​ Read More Here ​ ​ ​ ​   ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ Rotary Students of the Month for November ​ ​ ​ ​ This month, we are celebrating Juniors Arden Anderson and Alexis Bishop. They have started a Literacy Project for sixth graders at the middle school. Through research and planning, they recognized that this is a critical age for continuing to develop the love of reading. They are constructively using school time during Lunch and Learn and/or Advisory at the High School to travel to the middle school and work with the students. They also manage to bring special guests each month. These students exemplify the Rotary’s motto of “Service Above Self." (Pictured above: Arden Anderson and Alexis Bishop (center L-R) are flanked by teacher and Interact sponsor, Karyn Senita and Assistant Superintendent, Dr. Joshua Weaver. ​ ​ ​ ​   ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ Hillview Fun Run ​ ​ ​ ​ Fundraising comes in many forms. Securing sponsorships, selling products, or holding a raffle are all options that we have employed over the years. In that time, the Hillview Elementary Parent-Teacher Organization has been our greatest champion. This ever-evolving group of dedicated parents and volunteers annually sponsor grade-level field trips, field day and many other events. ​ ​ ​ ​ Read More Here ​ ​ ​ ​   ​ ​ ​ ​ New Scoreboard Installation Complete in Main Gymnasium ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ We are excited to announce the successful installation of our new scoreboards in the main gymnasium! Installation began on Monday, October 28, and was completed on Tuesday, October 29. These state-of-the-art scoreboards represent our commitment to enhancing the experience of our students and spectators, made possible through the support of our generous community partners. A training session on operating the new scoreboards is scheduled for Wednesday, November 13, for those who will assist in managing this new addition. We look forward to seeing our school spirit displayed with even greater clarity and excitement in every game! Thank you again to all our community partners for their outstanding contributions. Your support continues to elevate our school community in meaningful ways. ​ ​ ​ ​   ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ Teens2Career Program Teaches Students New Skills, Leadership Qualities ​ ​ ​ ​ The Teens2Career after-school program model promotes achievement, STEAM education, career path planning for high-demand employment, and transition to post-secondary training and education through quality afterschool experiences. ​ ​ ​ ​ Read More Here ​ ​ ​ ​   ​ ​ ​ ​ Interact Club Blood Drive ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ On Friday, November 1st, the Interact Club hosted the first of three Blood Drives for the 2024-25 school year. Over 30 students signed up and 26 successful donations were collected which will potentially save over 100 lives. Interact will host two more Blood Drives, one on January 17 and one on April 11. ​ ​ ​ ​   ​ ​ ​ ​ Grove City Team Advances to Finals of Steelers STEM Competition ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ A team of three Grove City Area High School Freshmen advanced to the Nov. 22 finals of “Powering Pittsburgh,” a STEM competition sponsored by the Pittsburgh Steelers. The goal is to devise a plan for developing a clean energy program to power Acrisure Stadium and the City of Pittsburgh in the future. ​ ​ ​ ​ Read More ​ ​ ​ ​   ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ Hillview students visit Meadowcroft Rockshelter and Historic Village ​ ​ ​ ​ Hillview second grade students traveled to Meadowcroft Rockshelter and Historic Village on November 5 as the anticipatory event leading into their second reading module. ​ ​ ​ ​ Click to Read More ​ ​ ​ ​   ​ ​ ​ ​ In Focus: PBIS ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​   ​ ​ ​ ​ Interact Club Trick or Treat ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ The Interact Club hosted its annual Halloween Parade with the YMCA Early Education Center on Wednesday, October 30. This year, they were joined by Pre-K Counts and Mercer County Head Start. The disguised young learners were greeted in the hallways of the High School with treats. ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​   ​ ​ ​ ​ High School Yearbooks Available to Order ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ Order Yearbooks Here ​ ​ ​ ​   ​ ​ ​ ​ Fall Play ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ The fall theatre performance of William Shakespeare’s The Tempest will be November 14-16 in the high school auditorium. More than 50 students will be involved in the production, between cast and crew. ​ ​ ​ ​   ​ ​ ​ ​ Required Forms ​ ​ ​ ​ All Kindergarten, 6th, & 11th graders are required to have a physical examination. ​ ​ ​ ​ Physical Form ​ ​ ​ ​ All Kindergarten, 3rd, 7th graders are required to have a dental examination. ​ ​ ​ ​ Dental Form ​ ​ ​ ​   ​ ​ ​ ​ Student Updates ​ ​ ​ ​ Parents must complete yearly student updates in Infinite Campus. ​ ​ ​ ​ Infinite Campus Forms ​ ​ ​ ​   ​ ​ ​ ​ Contact Information ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ If you have any questions or concerns, please don't hesitate to contact us. (724) 458-6733 511 Highland Ave. Grove City, PA, 16127 Facebook: @Grove City Area School District Instagram: @gcasd.eagles X: @GCASDK12 ​ ​ ​

Wednesday, Nov 13 2024

Eagle Spotlight: Safety & Security

​ ​ Eagle Spotlight News and updates from the Grove City Area School District October 9, 2024 ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ Safety & Security Updates ​ ​ ​ ​ GCASD is deeply invested in the safety and security of students and staff. School safety is our top priority. Please read on for information about our safety efforts and how we plan on keeping our district safe and secure for all. ​ ​ ​ ​   ​ ​ ​ ​ Department Spotlight: School Police ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ At Grove City Area High School, the safety and security of our students, staff, and visitors is a top priority, and at the heart of this mission is our district officers. We support and thank Officer Douglas Maxwell of Hillview Elementary Schools, Officer Kevin Jaszemski of Grove City Area Middle School, and Officer James Francic of Grove City Area High School for their service. With years of experience in law enforcement, Officer James Francic plays a crucial role in ensuring that our school environment remains secure, allowing students to focus on learning and personal growth. As the high school’s safety officer, Officer Francic is responsible for overseeing all aspects of building security. His duties include monitoring the school grounds, managing emergency procedures, and collaborating with administration to address potential security concerns. Read more about what Officer Francic has to say regarding safety and security. ​ ​ ​ ​ Read More Here ​ ​ ​ ​   ​ ​ ​ ​ Safety & Security Survey ​ ​ ​ ​ We value your feedback and kindly ask that you take a few minutes to fill out our safety and security survey. Your input will help us improve and better serve our school community. ​ ​ ​ ​ Click Here for Survey ​ ​ ​ ​   ​ ​ ​ ​ Safety & Emergency Communication ​ ​ ​ ​ The school district follows a structured process to ensure timely and accurate communication during safety-related situations, such as potential threats, emergency incidents, or drills. In cases of potential threats, the district informs families about the situation and any actions being taken, while prioritizing transparency. During actual emergencies, alerts are sent via Parentsquare through various channels like email, text, and social media to provide real-time updates and instructions. After the event, follow-up communications reassure families and explain any further safety steps. The district is committed to maintaining clear, open communication to keep everyone informed. Click the link below to see the district's complete safety and emergency communication plan. ​ ​ ​ ​ Read More Here ​ ​ ​ ​   ​ ​ ​ ​ High School Dismissal Pick-Up Safety ​ ​ ​ ​ Grove City Area High School prioritizes student safety during parent pick-up. Families are asked to read Principal Smith's letter. Following these procedures ensures a smoother, safer dismissal for everyone. ​ ​ ​ ​ Letter from Principal Smith Here ​ ​ ​ ​   ​ ​ ​ ​ Fire Prevention Month ​ ​ ​ ​ From October 8-11, the Grove City Volunteer Fire Department (GCVFD) will be conducting fire drills and fire safety education at the schools and day care centers throughout the borough. According to GCVFD Chief Jesse Badger, this year's fire safety education will focus on kindergarten and 1st-grade students. The key topics will include: - Teaching children to avoid hiding from firefighters and instead get out quickly and call for help from a safe location. - Showing kids how to crawl low beneath the smoke to safely exit a house during a fire and stay outside. - Demonstrating the "stop, drop, and roll" technique in case their clothes catch fire. Chief Badger also shared that a variety of fire safety and educational materials will be handed out to reinforce these important lessons. Let's work together to ensure our children's safety. ​ ​ ​ ​   ​ ​ ​ ​ Bike/Scooter Safety ​ ​ ​ ​ We love to see students riding their bicycles to school and utilizing the bike racks found around our buildings. With that said, it's important to ensure that students who ride bicycles to and from our campuses do so safely and responsibly. Here are a few key reminders for families and students about bicycle safety on school grounds: Bicycle Safety Tips: Always Wear a Helmet: Pennsylvania law requires helmets for cyclists under the age of 12, but we encourage all riders to wear helmets to protect themselves from injury. Use Bike Lanes and Crosswalks: Stick to designated bike paths and always walk your bike when crossing the street at crosswalks. This keeps both cyclists and pedestrians safe. Stay Alert: Pay attention to your surroundings—avoid distractions like phones or music while riding. Be Visible: Wear bright clothing and use lights or reflectors on your bike, especially during early mornings or late afternoons when visibility is lower. Lock Your Bike: Make sure your bicycle is securely locked in the designated bike racks when you’re on campus. By following these simple guidelines, we can help ensure a safe environment for all students, staff, and visitors who share our school grounds. Electric Scooters on Campus: We also want to remind families that while electric scooters are becoming a popular mode of transportation, they are technically not permitted on roadways or sidewalks in Pennsylvania. However, recognizing their convenience for short commutes, we are not banning them from our school campuses. We simply ask that students using electric scooters on school grounds follow the same safety rules as cyclists and respect pedestrian areas. Thank you for working with us to keep our school community safe. Let's make this a great year, both in and out of the classroom. ​ ​ ​ ​   ​ ​ ​ ​ Thank You! ​ We thank you for reading the safety and security section of this newsletter. We remain committed to providing a safe and secure learning environment throughout the Grove City Area School District. Continue reading for more amazing content. ​ ​ ​ ​   ​ ​ ​ ​ Red Ribbon Week ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ The Grove City Area School District is getting ready for the 2024 Red Ribbon Week (Monday, October 28th- Friday, November 1st). At Hillview, students will engage in activities that promote a drug free and healthy lifestyle. Please partner with us and discuss this message at home, at the dinner table, at family outings, as well as with friends and extended family.  Red Ribbon Week is a national celebration that promotes and encourages students to choose to be drug-free. When we respect ourselves and make healthy choices, we are better able to lead as caring, respectful and active members in our community. We set our goals high to be the best we can be by being drug-free. ​ ​ ​ ​   ​ ​ ​ ​ Eagle Ambassador Program ​ ​ ​ ​ Eagle Ambassadors are a group of students who are dedicated to the positive promotion of Hillview Elementary School and the Grove City Area School District. These students serve as leaders in the elementary setting by helping with a variety of tasks. Specifically, they serve to help new students and families transition into the district. They will also assist with specific tasks as developed by the Positive Behavior Support System (PBIS) team. Each morning you will find the Eagle Ambassadors assisting with primary students in the cafeteria, distributing weekend food bags, recording Principal 200 recipients, mentoring students that need guidance with morning routines, and much more. They also assist with kindergarten camp in August prior to the start of school and within kindergarten classrooms throughout the school year.  Eagle Ambassadors report directly to building administrators and school counselors. Their secondary contacts are the grade level PBIS team representatives. There is no limit to the number of students who can be student ambassadors. Depending on the number of ambassadors, duties may be divided and rotated in an attempt to include as many participants as possible.   What are the qualifications to be an Eagle Ambassador? Positive attitude Strong work ethic Strong potential for leadership A willingness to develop public speaking skills An ability to take initiative What are the requirements of an Eagle Ambassador? Attend all meetings/trainings Maintain strong school attendance Maintain strong academic standing Maintain consistent and appropriate behavior Keep current on all classroom work requirements What is the selection process for an Eagle Ambassador? Complete the application process Complete an application interview Strong academic and attendance record ​ ​ ​ ​   ​ ​ ​ ​ Rotary Students of the Month ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ Senior Ian McCreary and Junior Ella Stillwagon are being recognized as the Grove City Rotary Students of the Month by living the Rotary’s motto “Service Above Self”. Ian sets a positive example for underclass students through his kindness and leadership. Ella coordinated the successful organization of the Homecoming parade and events through professional and positive interactions with the community. ​ ​ ​ ​   ​ ​ ​ ​ The Interact Club ​ ​ ​ ​ The Interact Club, the high school branch of Rotary International, is a Community Service organization that pairs with local partners to better the Grove City and global communities. So far this year, Interact has helped Mrs. Heather Baker, the GC Community Library librarian, with their annual book sale, began planning service days with Days for Girls at their new site on the GJR campus, and are planning their first blood drive of the school year on November 1st. If you are interested in donating blood at the High School that morning, please contact Ms. Karyn Senita, karyn.senita@gcasdk12.org. ​ ​ ​ ​   ​ ​ ​ ​ Global Scholars ​ ​ ​ ​ The GCAHS Global Scholars with their advisors Ms. Alyssa Schafer, alyssa.schafer@gcasdk12.org and Ms. Karyn Senita, karyn.senita@gcasdk12.org hosted an interest meeting for new members on September 25th. The Globally-focused learning and service organization is planning an energized year of culturally diverse engagement. If you’re interested in more information, you can reach out to either advisor. The Global Scholar requirements are listed in the Program of Studies. ​ ​ ​ ​ Program of Studies ​ ​ ​ ​   ​ ​ ​ ​ Junior Achievement Day ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ On September 25, Hillview Elementary hosted Junior Achievement Day, a hands-on learning event designed to introduce students to real-world concepts of business, economics, and citizenship. Volunteers from the community, including business owners and student council members, led interactive lessons tailored to each grade level. Fifth graders worked on inventive solutions to everyday challenges, fostering teamwork and critical thinking. Throughout the day, students engaged in projects that encouraged creativity and problem-solving. The event, organized by Principal, Dr. Tammi Martin, was a success, with plans to make it an annual tradition at Hillview Elementary. ​ ​ ​ ​ Read More About JA Day ​ ​ ​ ​   ​ ​ ​ ​ Teens2Career ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ In 2022, Grove City Area High School became one of six local high schools to partner with United Way of Mercer County and the Teens2Career program. Teens2Career is supported through a 21st Century Community Learning Center grant from the PA Department of Education through the United Way of Mercer County in collaboration with the school partners. The Teens2Career after school program model promotes achievement, STEAM education, career path planning for high-demand employment, and transition to post-secondary training and education through quality afterschool experiences. ​ ​ ​ ​ What is T2C? Click Here ​ ​ ​ ​ Ag for All ​ Mr. Will Logan participated in the Ag for All program over the summer, focusing on bees and their critical role in our ecosystem. Now, as part of the Teens2Careers program, he is continuing this work to study and protect pollinators, deepening his understanding of bee biology, and monitoring their health. His efforts aim to raise awareness about the importance of bees and inspire others to engage in conservation. Monitoring pollinator populations is crucial. Citizen scientists help gather data from diverse regions, enhancing understanding of local factors affecting bee health. This participation fosters scientific literacy and critical thinking about ecological issues. Students are acting as citizen scientists, collaborating with Westminster College to monitor hives. This ongoing research will improve knowledge of bee biology and identify emerging threats. At the end of the year, students will present their findings to school administrators, encouraging community engagement in pollinator conservation. ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​   ​ ​ ​ ​ Animal Caretaker Program ​ ​ ​ ​ The Animal Caretaker Program is an educational initiative for 5th graders that promotes responsibility, empathy, and practical animal care skills. Each fall, students apply through a selection process involving applications, interviews, and training. Those selected receive training in animal care from November to December, by learning to safely interact with and care for the animals. The process also helps students develop job skills like completing applications and how to handle the interview process. Starting in January, students visit classrooms to share their knowledge, boosting communication and leadership skills while fostering a school-wide culture of empathy for animals. Participants must commit to two recess periods per week for animal care, maintain good behavior, and stay current with classwork. This encourages time-management, accountability, and a positive school environment.The Animal Caretaker Program offers valuable benefits, including hands-on experience with animals that builds responsibility, empathy, and accountability. Students enhance communication and leadership through classroom presentations and develop time management skills by balancing animal care with academics. The program also fosters critical thinking and problem-solving as students address caretaking challenges, boosting their confidence. Overall, it promotes personal growth, compassion for animals, and the environment, preparing students academically, socially, and emotionally for future success. ​ ​ ​ ​   ​ ​ ​ ​ National Math Conference ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ The 2024 National Council of Teachers of Mathematics Annual Meeting & Exposition, held in Chicago from September 25–28, centered on the theme The Math of Their Dreams: Illuminating Students’ Brilliance. Mrs. Eller & Mrs.Thompson gave a standout presentation, Lessons Learned: Using 1-on-1 Assessments to Drive Interventions and Make Students’ Thinking Visible. Which focused on personalizing instruction to better understand and support student learning. Educators left with new strategies and insights from this session, along with others, to help foster brilliance in their classrooms through individualized assessments and targeted interventions. ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​   ​ ​ ​ ​ Independent Learning Plans ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ Mr. Bill Hoffman and Mrs. Steph Sumner have significantly improved the Independent Learning Plan (ILP) process, making it more enriching for students. They’ve built connections with community mentors, providing students with hands-on learning opportunities alongside professionals in various fields. Additionally, they developed a comprehensive ILP website, giving students and mentors a central hub for resources and guidance. The application process has also been revamped to focus on learning outcomes, encouraging students to think critically about how their projects will enhance their education. This shift emphasizes personal growth, making the process more than just completing tasks. To boost accountability, regular check-ins between mentors and students have been introduced, ensuring consistent progress and providing ongoing support throughout the ILP journey. A panel of teachers and administrators now reviews all ILP proposals, ensuring that each plan is well-structured and aligned with educational goals. Thanks to Bill and Steph's efforts, the ILP process is now a more engaging, supportive, and academically meaningful experience for students. ​ ​ ​ ​ ILP Website ​ ​ ​ ​   ​ ​ ​ ​ New Scoreboard ​ ​ ​ ​ Elevating Our Facilities with Community Support ​ Approximately a year ago, under the direction of Athletic Director Casey Young, our district embarked on an initiative to upgrade the scoreboards at Forker Field and the high school main gymnasium. This effort was driven by a desire to enhance the game-day experience for athletes, spectators, and community members, while also providing local businesses with a unique advertising opportunity through our District’s advertising policy. ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ Community Partnerships and Fundraising Efforts ​ Mr. Casey Young, Athletic Director, led the outreach to local businesses, presenting prime advertising spots available on the new scoreboards. After initial communications and follow-up conversations, potential partners were shown renderings of the scoreboards, highlighting the significant exposure and branding opportunities their support would provide. Thanks to the generosity of our community partners—including Blackout Burger, Grove City Federal Credit Union, Renick Brothers, Cashdollar and Associates, Armstrong Utilities, Compadres Navarros, Troy Alan Chevrolet, McDonald’s of Grove City, Grove City Ford, Malloy Law, LLC, Wabtec Corporation, and others—we have successfully raised $310,000 to fund these state-of-the-art scoreboards. ​ ​ ​ ​ The Impact of New Scoreboards ​ These new scoreboards will replace outdated models, modernizing the experience for players and spectators alike. More than just a tool for keeping score, they offer businesses a platform to display their logos and digital ads during events, increasing their visibility in the community. The scoreboards will also enhance other major school functions, such as graduations and district-wide events like band performances. ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ Sponsorship Benefits ​ Brand Exposure: Partner logos and ads will be prominently displayed on the scoreboards during a variety of events, reaching wide audiences. Community Engagement: Sponsorship reflects a commitment to local schools, fostering goodwill and positive brand recognition. Event Sponsorship Recognition: Businesses will be acknowledged as official sponsors during events, with their brand highlighted in announcements. ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ What's Coming Next? ​ High School Main Gymnasium: Two new video scoreboards, valued at $71,500, are being installed, along with a new scorer’s table for $13,500. Anticipated time for Installation completion is expected within two to three weeks. Forker Field: A new scoreboard is scheduled for installation in summer 2025, further enhancing outdoor events for the district. ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ Educational Opportunities ​ Beyond sports, these scoreboards will provide students with hands-on learning experiences. Students will be trained to operate the boards during games, using features like instant replays and creating player profiles. These valuable skills will offer students real-world experience in media production and event management. We are incredibly excited about the educational and community benefits this initiative will bring. Stay tuned for more updates on the installation progress and thank you again to all our community partners for their generous support. ​ ​ ​ ​ Fitness Center Campaign ​ ​ ​ ​   ​ ​ ​ ​ Celebrating Jack Ogoreuc ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ We are proud to recognize Jack's incredible achievement in representing Team USA at the World Junior Championships in Peru. Thanks to the support of our school community, Jack had the opportunity to compete against some of the best young shooters in the world, many of whom recently participated in the Olympics in Paris. The event featured 51 countries and a total of 566 athletes, showcasing exceptional talent on a global stage. Jack qualified for three events and performed admirably, finishing 18th in the Prone Smallbore, 31st in Air Rifle, and 39th in 3P Smallbore. Coach Durban, the national team and Olympic coach, was pleased with Jack’s performance and noted that he will have more opportunities to represent Team USA in the future. We look forward to continuing our support for Jack as he aims to compete internationally again this year. Recruiting Update: We are excited to share that Jack is attracting interest from top rifle programs, including West Virginia University, the University of Alaska, and the University of Kentucky. We are hopeful that he will make a commitment by the first signing date, further advancing his academic and athletic career. ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​   ​ ​ ​ ​ Fall Play ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ The fall theatre performance of William Shakespeare’s The Tempest will be November 14-16 in the high school auditorium. Over 50 students will be involved in the production, between cast and crew. ​ ​ ​ ​   ​ ​ ​ ​ Required Forms ​ ​ ​ ​ All Kindergarten, 6th, & 11th graders are required to have a physical examination. ​ ​ ​ ​ Physical Form ​ ​ ​ ​ All Kindergarten, 3rd, 7th graders are required to have a dental examination. ​ ​ ​ ​ Dental Form ​ ​ ​ ​   ​ ​ ​ ​ Student Updates ​ ​ ​ ​ Parents must complete yearly student updates in Infinite Campus. ​ ​ ​ ​ Infinite Campus Forms ​ ​ ​ ​   ​ ​ ​ ​ Contact Information ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ If you have any questions or concerns, please don't hesitate to contact us. (724) 458-6733 511 Highland Ave. Grove City, PA, 16127 Facebook: @Grove City Area School District Instagram: @gcasd.eagles X: @GCASDK12 ​ ​ ​

Wednesday, Oct 09 2024

Eagle Spotlight: Highlights from Our First Month Back!

​ ​ Eagle Spotlight News and updates from the Grove City Area School District September 2024 ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ First Day of School ​ ​ ​ ​ The first day of the 2024-2025 school year was a great success across the Grove City Area School District. Students and staff returned with excitement and enthusiasm, ready to begin another year of growth and learning. From Hillview Elementary to Grove City Area High School, the halls were filled with smiles and the sounds of students reconnecting with friends and meeting new teachers.  Our teachers and support staff worked diligently to create a welcoming and engaging environment for students. From freshly-decorated classrooms to thoughtful first-day lessons, it is clear that this year will be one of learning, creativity, and community. We are thrilled for the journey ahead and wish all students, staff, and families a wonderful school year! ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​   ​ ​ ​ ​ New Website ​ ​ ​ ​ We are elated to announce the launch of the newly redesigned Grove City Area School District website. The updated site features a fresh look, improved navigation, and user-friendly access to important information for students, parents, and the community. With streamlined sections for each school, district news, event calendars, and quick links to essential resources, the website is designed to enhance communication and provide easy access to the information you need. We invite you to explore the new site and stay connected with everything happening across the district. ​ ​ ​ ​ GCASD Website ​ ​ ​ ​   ​ ​ ​ ​ New Cell Phone/Electronic Device Procedures ​ ​ ​ ​ As we begin the 2024-2025 school year, this is a friendly reminder to all students and parents that there is a new district-wide cell phone procedure. It’s part of an effort to minimize distractions and promote a focused learning environment for our students. Details have been provided by each building principal as they relate to updated expectations with devices. We believe that these new procedures will balance personal cell phone use with a safe and productive learning environment. We appreciate your cooperation in helping us create a positive and productive learning environment for all students. If you have any questions or concerns, please contact your school’s administrative office. ​ ​ ​ ​   ​ ​ ​ ​ Required Forms ​ ​ ​ ​ Parents/guardians: Please make sure to review, sign, and return all required forms that were sent home with students at the start of the school year. It is essential that these documents are returned promptly to ensure your student’s full participation in school activities and access to necessary resources. It is of utmost importance to have up-to-date records on each student. Please remember to update phone numbers, addresses, emergency contacts, etc. in Infinite Campus. If you have any questions or need additional copies, please contact your school’s administrative office. ​ ​ ​ ​   ​ ​ ​ ​ Lunch Menus ​ ​ ​ ​   ​ ​ ​ ​ Capital Campaign for the GCASD Fitness Center ​ ​ ​ ​ Exciting news! The Grove City Area School District's highly anticipated fitness center capital campaign has kicked off, with a communication for our GCASD fundraiser sent this past weekend via Parentsquare. The campaign is focused on raising funds to build a state-of-the-art fitness center for our students. The new facility will provide much-needed space for physical education classes, athletic training, and health programs which promote student wellness. We encourage everyone in our community to keep an eye out for updates and consider contributing to this exciting project. Your support will help us create a healthier and more active environment for our students. If you would like to learn more about the project or find an opportunity to contribute, please click the link below. ​ ​ ​ ​ Letter to Parents ​ ​ ​ ​ GCASD FITNESS CENTER ​ ​ ​ ​   ​ ​ ​ ​ High School Timeline ​ ​ ​ ​ The Grove City Area High School timeline for the 2024-2025 school year is now available. This comprehensive schedule includes key dates for annual events such as homecoming, the fall play, and spring musical, as well as the start dates for winter and spring sports seasons. It also features important testing dates, choral concerts, meetings, and information related to the Mercer County Career Center. We encourage students and families to review the timeline to stay informed throughout the school year. Be sure to mark your calendars and stay connected for updates. ​ ​ ​ ​ Dates & Timelines ​ ​ ​ ​   ​ ​ ​ ​ High School Parking Passes ​ ​ ​ ​ Attention Grove City Area High School students: Parking passes are now available for the 2024-2025 school year. Any student who would like to park on campus must obtain a parking pass from the main office. Please email the Principal’s Administrative Assistant, Mrs. Bish at jessica.bish@gcasdk12.org. Passes are $25.00 and are transferable to multiple vehicles. Funds will go to Grove City Area High School Student Council to utilize for the Commons Project. All student vehicles parked on school property must be registered. ​ ​ ​ ​ Register Here ​ ​ ​ ​   ​ ​ ​ ​ Lunch and Learn ​ ​ ​ ​ Our "Lunch and Learn" framework is transforming the student experience by offering flexible access to dynamic resources, support, and activities tailored to individual growth. This initiative has already fostered a culture of success, with students taking increased ownership of their learning through academic support, enrichment, and health and wellness activities. After reintroducing students to expectations and procedures through class meetings, we are working to ensure that all participants—students, staff, and faculty—uphold essential guidelines to keep the program thriving. "Lunch and Learn" empowers students to connect with learning in meaningful ways, moving beyond traditional lunch periods to enforce both academic and personal growth. ​ ​ ​ ​ Parent Letter ​ ​ ​ ​   ​ ​ ​ ​ New Student Meetings ​ ​ ​ ​ Step into a year full of new opportunities and support at Grove City Area High School. As we welcome a new group of students and families, our goal is to make your transition seamless and reassuring. At Grove City Area High School, our dedicated team is committed to supporting every student, and we look forward to getting to know each new face through one-on-one meetings with the High School Principal, Dr. Smith. These informal chats are designed to ease any anxieties and help students feel at home. Our staff looks forward to providing exceptional care to our students. We are here to ensure your child's success and happiness, so please feel free to reach out with any questions or concerns. Welcome to our school family! ​ ​ ​ ​ Letter from Dr. Smith ​ ​ ​ ​   ​ ​ ​ ​ Eagle POWER Program ​ ​ ​ ​ The Eagles Power Program at Hillview Elementary emphasizes core values that drive student success and positive behavior. P: ositive attitude O: wnership of actions W: ork hard to achieve goals E: ffort and encouragement in both academic and personal growth R: espect for self and others By integrating these principles into daily activities, the Eagles Power Program aims to create a supportive and motivating environment where every student can thrive and excel. ​ ​ ​ ​ POWER ​ ​ ​ ​   ​ ​ ​ ​ Junior Achievement Day ​ ​ ​ ​ September 25, 2024 ​ Junior Achievement's mission is to ignite the potential of young people, empowering them with the skills and confidence to thrive in today's global community! Hillview Elementary School will host its first annual “JA in a Day” on September 25. All students in grades kindergarten through grade 5 will be participating in this curriculum to gain exposure to real-world applications of their learning. Each grade level will have a different focus that is developmentally appropriate for their age. Community partners have stepped up to make this day an engaging and informative event. If you would like more information, please see the attached document and/or contact Dr. Tammi Martin at  tammi.martin@gcasdk12.org. ​ ​ ​ ​ JA in a Day ​ ​ ​ ​   ​ ​ ​ ​ High School Student Council ​ ​ ​ ​ The Grove City Area High School Student Council has a memory filled lineup of events planned for the 2024-2025 school year. From spirit weeks and pep rallies to community service projects and fundraising activities, the Student Council is dedicated to fostering school spirit and engaging students in meaningful ways. Signature events such as the homecoming dance and annual charity drive will return, alongside new initiatives aimed at promoting student leadership and involvement. Be sure to follow updates on Student Council events on the instagram page, @grovecitystudentcouncil, throughout the year and join in to make this school year unforgettable. The GCAHS Student Council has started the 2024-2025 school year with their Senior Sunrise breakfast. Our senior class all came together to enjoy breakfast and the sunrise creating the start of many core memories. All of the seniors were able to sign their name and leave their mark on their school! ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ The student council continues to think of creative ways to engage with the students at GCAHS and the greater Grove City community. Our homecoming weekend is scheduled for September 20th and 21st. The football game will kick the weekend off on Friday, September 20th at 7pm. Our homecoming dance wil be on September 21st from 6:30pm-10:00pm. Ella Stillwagon, the Vice President, has been diligently working to make the events special for all participants. This year’s homecoming theme will be Under the Sea. As a part of the Homecoming festivities this year Student Council has partnered with Armstrong in their Avenge Hunger Month. During spirit week, September 16-20, the students are collecting non-perishable canned goods and selling starfish for $1 with proceeds to benefit the Breaking Bread program. The Student Council has been fundraising for the Commons, the foyer area outside of the auditorium, makeover. They continue to brainstorm creative ways to raise money including concerts, concession stands and spirit events. ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​   ​ ​ ​ ​ Adopt-A-Classroom ​ ​ ​ ​ We would like to invite you to participate in our Adopt-a-Classroom project within Hillview Elementary School of the Grove City Area School District. With the partnership of local businesses, we have created the Adopt-a-Classroom program for Kindergarten through fifth grade classrooms. This program invites local businesses and/or families to sponsor one of the over 50 classrooms in our elementary program. Each business/family will contribute $100, or more, to the classroom. The money will be used to enrich the math, science, arts and literacy curricula. Teachers will select materials such as computer programs, library books and math materials that will help students better meet or exceed the PaCore academic standards and supplement their learning. Each business will in turn be recognized with a sign near the classroom door to identify your business or family name. Also, recognition will be given in our newsletters, brochures and displays. In addition, each business will be encouraged to display a notice in their establishment informing customers that the business supports quality education. If you are interested in participating, please complete the participation form and return it to Hillview Elementary School, Attn: Tammi Martin, 482 East main Street, Grove City, PA 16127. Thank you for your consideration. ​ ​ ​ ​ Participation Form ​ ​ ​ ​ Contact Letter for Participation ​ ​ ​ ​   ​ ​ ​ ​ Department Spotlight ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ Amber Fitch: Social Worker ​ Amber Fitch, our dedicated school social worker, is a vital part of the School Social Work Department at Grove City Area School District. This department is focused on providing support for students facing emotional and behavioral challenges that may impact their ability to succeed in school. Amber and her team assist students in managing various mental health and social concerns through a range of interventions designed to address problems before they escalate. Programs include advocating for students to meet their basic needs, providing social-emotional learning, and facilitating small groups focused on coping skills and positive peer interactions. The department works to eliminate barriers to learning that extend beyond the classroom by acting as a liaison between the school and students' families. Amber coordinates services for students and their families through partnerships with community organizations. The primary goal of the School Social Work Department is to improve students' overall well-being and educational experience, creating a stable and supportive environment both at school and at home. Contact Amber Fitch at amber.fitch@gcasdk12.org for more information. ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​   ​ ​ ​ ​ Contact Information ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ If you have any questions or concerns, please don't hesitate to contact us. (724) 458-6733 511 Highland Ave. Grove City, PA, 16127 Facebook: @Grove City Area School District Instagram: @gcasd.eagles X: @GCASDK12 ​ ​ ​

Wednesday, Sep 11 2024