2 Highlands administrators named MVP — most valuable principals — by Pittsburgh Penguins

Students at Highlands Elementary School already thought of their principal, Stan Whiteman, as the building’s MVP.

Now they have confirmation.

Whiteman was among 15 Allegheny County school administrators named 2024 Pittsburgh Penguins Most Valuable Principal.

“He’s super kind and nice,” said Silas Kemp, 9.

“He’s a very big Pens fan, so this is perfect for him,” third grader Oliver Hatajik said. “Plus, he’s really nice.”

Highlands Middle School Assistant Principal Cory Sakolsky also was selected for the award, which comes from the hockey team, the Grable Foundation and the Allegheny Intermediate Unit.

The pair will be honored March 17 before the home crowd at PPG Paints Arena when the Penguins take on the Detroit Red Wings. Awardees will be seated in a suite and receive a customized jersey, along with a $1,000 donation for their respective school buildings.

The MVPs were selected among an extensive pool of nominations as a testament to their leadership and their dedication to the success of all learners at each school, according to the program.

Superintendent Monique Mawhinney said Whiteman and Sakolsky are deserving because their dedication to students is unwavering.

“Every day, they show up to work with smiles on their faces, regardless of the situations they encounter,” Mawhinney said. “They are student-centered leaders who ensure every student has what they need to be successful academically, socially and emotionally.”

Sakolsky, assistant middle school principal for two years, said he was proud to represent the district and the community with the recognition.

“This is a testament to the collective efforts of our administration, teachers and, most importantly, our students,” Sakolsky said. “Without all of us working toward a common goal with our students at the forefront of our priorities, recognitions like this would not be possible.”

Whiteman credited the students, who he said inspire the staff with their enthusiasm and passion. He is grateful to the staff members who nominated him, Whiteman said.

The honor is fitting for the principal, a longtime hockey fan whose three sons play high-level amateur hockey for the Pittsburgh Aviators.

“When I am not at school, I am helping to coach their team,” Whiteman said.

He also serves as the vice president for the Aviators club and also as the equipment manager for the Shaler Area Ice Hockey Club, where his older sons hit the rink.

“This award to me is special since I spend so much time working with children inside school and at the ice rink,” Whiteman said.

Third grader Tyson Crain said he can always count on Whiteman for some “Pens talk” at school.

“It’s enjoyable to talk to him about hockey,” said Tyson, 9.

“I’ve even seen him on the ice,” fourth grader Trent Singer said. “He actually knows a lot about hockey.”