Curtisville principal recognized by Pittsburgh Penguins

Jennifer Cavalancia, principal at Curtisville Primary Center in the Deer Lakes School District, often says she is lucky to do the work of the school’s top administrator every day.

And recognition from the Pittsburgh Penguins didn’t hurt either.

Cavalancia, 44, of Elizabeth Township was recognized as a 2024 Pittsburgh Penguins Most Valuable Principal, an honor from the hockey team, Allegheny Intermediate Unit and Grable Foundation.

She is one of 15 principals to earn the honor. In the Alle-Kiski Valley, Stan Whiteman and Cory Sakolsky, both principals in the Highlands School District, also were selected.

“It was very exciting to receive the recognition among such a talented group of fellow administrators and school districts,” Cavalancia said. “It is a great opportunity to highlight the incredible work and efforts that we accomplish as a team here at Curtisville Primary Center.”

Principals were treated to a suite to watch a game March 17. They also received a customized jersey and a $1,000 donation for their school.

Meghan Bright, wellness education teacher at Curtisville and the person who nominated Cavalancia, said Cavalancia’s dedication and commitment to the school is “outstanding.”

“Her leadership style fosters a positive and inclusive learning environment that inspires both students and teachers alike,” Bright said.

Superintendent Janell Logue-Belden agrees.

“Mrs. Cavalancia has had a profound impact on Curtisville students and staff through her passion and providing exceptional opportunities for all,” Logue-Belden said. “She is the first administrator that students meet in their educational journey. Imagine the responsibility and joy she has knowing she is helping to teach every student who walks through the doors how to read, write and enjoy education.”

Cavalancia has been in education for 21 years and became Curtisville’s principal in 2012. She said she entered the education field because she enjoys the continuous development the field provides.

“I find it fulfilling to have the ability to directly impact a child’s path to learning,” Cavalancia said.

During her tenure at Curtisville, Cavalancia said, she is proud of the school’s successes with positive behavior implementation, social and emotional instructional routines, wellness initiatives and kindergarten transition planning. The school also has achieved recognition as one of America’s “Healthiest Schools” by the Alliance for a Healthier Generation for two consecutive school years.

“To have the opportunity to be directly involved with the growth (and) development of the individual children and to strive toward meeting their fullest potential is the greatest reward for me,” she said.