Quaker Valley School District officials ready to welcome students this coming school year

Quaker Valley School District officials are eager to welcome students back and greet new learners this coming school year.

First day of classes for K-9 is Aug. 23.

First day of classes for grades 10-12 is Aug. 24.

Total enrollment as of press time was 1,818.

Superintendent Tammy Andreyko said excitement is building as the first day approaches.

“As we prepare for a new chapter in education at Quaker Valley, the district is buzzing with anticipation,” she said. “The excitement is real as we welcome new staff into our school family and engage with updated curriculum to build curiosity and critical thinking in our students.

“With relentless dedication, we’ve forged ahead in crafting the design of our new high school, witnessing progress that speaks volumes of our collective determination. The start of school encapsulates our commitment to excellence, innovation and growth, and I am thrilled to witness the unfolding of this new year with a great staff and fabulous students.”

All programs were maintained in the 2023-24 budget.

There are new dual enrollment opportunities at Quaker Valley High School via partnerships with Duquesne University and the University of Pittsburgh.

Students can earn college credits without having to take out thousands in student loans.

Teachers have a new tool to help students’ ailments that prevent them from reading standard print texts — the district approved a one-year pilot program with Learning Ally, a program that features various audiobooks and more to boost word recognition, language comprehension and other skills.

The new dual enrollment courses and pilot program were approved by the school board a few months ago.

“The start of the school year is always very special,” said school board member Daniela Helkowski. “As the chairperson of the educational services committee, I speak for the board when I say we are proud of our student performance rankings and the implementation of new and rigorous curricula. We have such great staff and students. I am so proud of the wonderful things happening at Quaker Valley.”

About food

Studies have shown that students learn better when they are not hungry.

Student breakfasts are free across Pennsylvania. Lunches range from $3.20 to $4.75. Monthly menus are posted on the food services section of the district’s website.

Food and nutrition services director Carla Escribano said students should not miss out on what’s been called the most important meal of the day.

“I am excited to provide free breakfast again this year for all students to promote healthy eating habits,” she said. “Every student will have the opportunity to have a healthy and balanced breakfast with essential nutrients to kickstart their day. Breakfast has been linked to better cognitive function and academic performance.”

New technology

Some students and staffers will get new technology this school year.

The district approved the purchase of 100 MacBook Air laptops for staff at Edgeworth and Osborne elementary schools as well as some workers in the district office.

The board also authorized the purchase of 420 iPads for students in first, fifth and ninth grades.

Both moves were made as part of an ongoing technology refresh program.

Laptops come with three years of AppleCare+ for Schools, which is an extended warranty and service coverage.

The iPads come with Logitech Rugged three-combo keyboard and trackpad case, plus four years of AppleCare+ for Schools.

“Each new school year brings excitement to our entire community,” said assistant superintendent Andrew Surloff. “Amidst the crisp pages of books, the glowing screens of iPads, and the boundless activities on our fields, courts and performance halls, our students, faculty and staff once again engage with learning and pursue the limitless possibilities in front of them. Quaker Valley is a special place and the start of school is a special time, and we look forward to welcoming everyone back.”

More information about district activities is available at qvsd.org.