Highlander Highlights

Each month, the district produces a monthly newsletter called Highlander Highlights in order to celebrate the great happenings that occur within our buildings and school community. All district parents who have their email address updated in the Skyward student information system and are registered to receive Skylert messages will automatically receive the monthly electronic newsletter.

If you do not have a child enrolled in one of the district schools and would like to be included on the distribution list, please click here and enter your contact information.

2021-2022

September 2021

September 2021

September 2021

District News

Ryan Rydzewski, Coauthor of When You Wonder You’re Learning, Addresses Staff

On Monday, August 30th, the faculty and staff of the Baldwin-Whitehall School District prepared for the beginning of the school year with an in-service that focused on the ties that keep our community strong.
Read More

MORE FROM BWSD

Baldwin-Whitehall School District Selected to be Part of Learning 2025 Initiative

Parent-to-Parent
with Dr. Lutz

Changing Your Perspective Can Change Someone Else’s Life

It’s rare that a bumper sticker actually makes a good point, but whenever I see one of those “coexist” bumper stickers, I can’t help but agree.

If you haven’t seen them before, they use different theological symbols to spell out the word “coexist.” The message is clear: we don’t all have to believe the same thing, but we do all need to find a way to peacefully coexist in this shared space that we call life.
Read More

Alumni Spotlight

Constance Mulbah Named One of Pittsburgh's 40 under 40

Mulbah has worked in education and advocacy for the last decade, first serving in the Peace Corps, and then in various community organizations in the region.
Read More

Athletic Spotlight

Friends, Fun, and Friday Night Lights

The Baldwin Middle School cheerleaders have been hard at work learning new cheers and pyramids to showcase at games.
Read More

MORE IN ATHLETICS

JV and Varsity Hockey Teams to Be Honored before Football Game

Arts / Music

Virtual Recital Strikes a Chord with Students

Student creativity dazzled audiences as they collaborated in a virtual piano recital. Students recorded themselves playing songs in the piano lab, school hallways, closets, and their homes.
Read More

MORE IN ARTS

All Together Now Celebrates the Magic of Theater

Raising Highlanders: Tech Tips for Parents

District Adopts PikMyKid App to Streamline Dismissal Process

This top-rated app will allow additional functionality and smoother functioning to picking kids up from school.
Read More

Baldwin-Whitehall Educational Foundation

BWEF "Mini" Golf Outing = Success!

Over the course of the day, nearly 150 mini golfers attended and participated in golfing games, cornhole contests, maker activities with the district's Mobile Fab Lab, and the evening was energized by the entrepreneurs from BW Creations. Read More

MORE FROM BWEF

Baldwin High School

Students Build Life and Career Skills through ESL Learn & Earn Program

Thanks to a partnership with Jewish Family and Community Services (JFCS) and Allegheny County Partners4 Work, these ELs spent their summer practicing mindfulness, building websites, solving Lego challenges, designing cultural mosaics, and experimenting with photography.
Read More

MORE FROM BHS

Baldwin Middle School

Meet Your BMS Counselors

The 7-8 School Counselors visited science classrooms during the week of September 20th to introduce themselves and review the counselor’s role in our school.
Read More

Full STEAM ahead in the Library

Miss Seidl was extremely excited to welcome students back in-person to her classroom. Students are back to using many hands-on manipulatives and completing engaging projects.
Read More

MORE FROM HEC

The Power of Math Talk

McAnnulty Elementary School

McAnnulty Elementary School is Out of This World

At McAnnulty Elementary Elementary School, we are having a blast with our space theme so far this year! A little group of Kindergarten earthlings from Ms. Thorhauer’s room visited the new principal, Ms. Fusco, as they were doing a school tour on their first day of school!
Read More

Whitehall Elementary School

Exceptional Education at WES

Whitehall Elementary kicked off the new year with a focus on the District's theme: "We make education..." As an activity with teachers, we all brainstormed different words that put personal meaning behind how we make education exceptional for our students each and every day.
Read More

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Sharing Gratitude

Being Grateful

In the September 10th installment of Live with Lutz, Dr. Lutz expressed his appreciation for the wisdom and insight shared by a parent.

“I understand our views and opinions as individuals cannot and never will be in complete solidarity as an entire District. But, we all still have one common interest—our children—and that unifies us.“ Read More

From Our Community Libraries

Love Your Library Celebration Day Planned for Whitehall Library

The Whitehall Public Library wants to say "thank you" for all of the library love shown by the community by celebrating with food trucks and so much more!
Read More

Fall Programs at Baldwin Borough Public Library Have Something for Everyone

Registration for fall programs at the Baldwin Borough Public Library is now open!
Read More

District Calendar

COMING SOON TO BWSD

Oct 6 BWSD School Board of Directors Meeting
Oct 11 No School, Professional Development Day
Oct 14 BHS Homecoming Bonfire
Oct 15 BHS Homecoming Game
Oct 16 BHS Homecoming Dance
Oct 18 MES/WES PTO Meeting
Oct 19 Middle School PTSA Meeting
Oct 19 HEC Flu Clinic
Oct 21 WES Fall Festival
Oct 21 BHS Flu Clinic
Oct 22–28 Red Ribbon Week
Oct 29 BHS Senior Recognition, Band, Cheerleading, & Football
•All dates subject to change based on current conditions. Check for updates for events at https://www.bwschools.net/our-district/calendars

Click Here to Share News for a Future Monthly Issue of Highlander Highlights.

2020-2021

May/June 2021

Highlander Highlights - Baldwin-Whitehall School District

May/June 2021

District News

District Wins PensPRA Awards for Excellence in Communication

The Baldwin-Whitehall School District has earned accolades in a statewide contest to recognize outstanding communication from The Pennsylvania School Public Relations Association (PenSPRA).
Read More

MORE FROM BWSD

Parent-to-Parent
with Dr. Lutz

Learning to Appreciate the Downtime

With the end of the school year now on the horizon, I know that many families are looking ahead to their summer vacations. But I also know that being able to relax is hard for many people — especially in our fast-paced, productivity-obsessed, “always on” culture, where some may see taking a break as a sign of laziness.
Read More

Alumni Spotlight

Robert Scherrer is Advancing Education

One of the many organizations supporting the Baldwin-Whitehall School District is the Allegheny Intermediate Unit. At the helm of AIU is Baldwin High School alumnus Robert Scherrer.
Read More

Athletic Spotlight

BHS Hockey Team Wins State Championship

The Baldwin High School Varsity Boys Hockey Team claimed the Penguins Cup and went on to win the championship game.

While this may be the end of an amazing season, it’s only the beginning of the journey for these hockey players.
Read More

Arts / Music

A Fairy Tale Production at Baldwin High School

This spring, Baldwin High School presented the musical Once Upon a Mattress. The production was well received by audiences. Joyce notes, "People love live entertainment—particularly when it's talented young people. The people that came were excited to be out of the house and see an outstanding show."
Read More

MORE IN ARTS

Legally Blonde Jr. Delights Audiences

Raising Highlanders: Tech Tips for Parents

Summer Reading Recommendations from Library Media Specialist Brigetta Del Re

Each year Ms. Del Re creates a book list for middle and high school students. Her selections are perfect for the young people in your life—or anyone young at heart.
Read More

MORE FROM TECH TIPS

FCC Emergency Broadband Benefit

Baldwin-Whitehall Educational Foundation

2021 BWEF Scholarship Recipients Announced

Baldwin-Whitehall Educational Foundation would like to congratulate this year's scholarship recipients. BWEF will award $8,000 in scholarship funds this spring, raising the scholarship value to more than $25,000 since 2018. Read More

MORE FROM BWEF

BWEF Celebrates Educators with Teacher Appreciation Month

Baldwin High School

BHS Receives No Place for Hate Designation

No Place for Hate is a school-climate improvement program that provides K-12 grade schools with an organizing framework for combating bias, bullying, and hatred, leading to long-term solutions for creating and maintaining a positive and equitable climate.
Read More

MORE FROM BHS

J.E. Harrison Education Center

Adaptive Technology Helps Student Express His Creativity

Sam, a kindergartener at Harrison, has Acute Flaccid Myelitis (AFM), a rare, Polio-like neurologic condition that affects his muscular control. Occupational Therapist Rachel Thiros saw new ways to help Sam express himself in the classroom.
Read More

MORE FROM HEC

Student Ingenuity Shines through Marble Maze Challenge

McAnnulty Elementary School

Turning Trash to Treasure: Students Celebrate Earth Day with Recycled Games

The students worked their way through the engineering design-process to create a game or toy that would recycle trash, rather than throw it away.
Read More

MORE FROM MES

Whitehall Elementary School

PTO Sponsors Book Distribution for Students

Students were given the opportunity to pick their own book which could reflect their interests and reading styles thanks to the generosity of the PTO.
Read More

MORE FROM WES

Sharing Gratitude

Being Grateful

Thank you to Ms. Rachel Sprouse and the team of Allegheny Health Network healthcare professionals for administering a vaccine clinic at Baldwin High School. Read More

From Our Community Libraries

Participate in the 2021 Summer Reading Program

Join the program and earn raffle tickets for reading, attending programs, and completing activities throughout the summer for chances to win end-of-summer gift cards and prizes.
Read More

Join the Whitehall Public Library on a Scavenger Hunt!

Kids become nature ninjas with this fun twist on a scavenger hunt! These activities are fun ways to get kids outside and interacting with the environment.
Read More

District Calendar

COMING SOON TO BWSD

May 31 No School: Memorial Day
June 1 Senior Scholarship and Recognition Night
June 2 BHS Athletic Signing Day
June 3 Academic Awards Ceremony, 7th and 8th Grade
June 4 Commencement Practice
June 4 Senior Prom
June 8 BHS Class of 2021 Graduation Ceremony
June 9 Graduation Rain Date
June 9 Early Dismissal: Last Day of School

https://www.bwschools.net/our-district/calendars

Click Here to Share News for a Future Monthly Issue of Highlander Highlights.

April 2021

District News

Baldwin–Whitehall School District Names New School After Current Superintendent Lutz

On April 7, 2021, the Baldwin–Whitehall School Board of Directors voted to name its newest school building R. A. Lutz Elementary School, in honor of current BWSD Superintendent Randal A. Lutz, Ed.D.
Read More

MORE FROM BWSD

In Memoriam: Eileen Kline

Parent-to-Parent
with Dr. Lutz

Staying Focused in the Home Stretch

As we move through these final nine weeks of the school year, you might be feeling the excitement that builds when you realize the finish line is approaching.
Read More

Alumni Spotlight

Hillary Maglin Explores the World through Words

Maglin works as a digital editor at Travel + Leisure magazine. She explains, “My favorite part of my job is getting to do what I’m passionate about, which is writing, and learning about places around the world I might never have known about otherwise.”
Read More

Athletic Spotlight

Pacella Unites Team on and off the Field

Maleah Pacella always enjoyed softball, but hitting her first home run when she was 10 years old made her fall in love with the sport.

Read more in coverage from The Purbalite.
Read More

Arts / Music

District Named One of The Best in the Country for Music Education

The Baldwin-Whitehall School District is one of only 686 in the nation chosen for this honor. This is the third year the District has received this award.
Read More

MORE IN ARTS

Two BHS Students Nominated for Gene Kelly Awards

Raising Highlanders: Tech Tips for Parents

BW Joins DonorsChoose District Partnership Program

Baldwin-Whitehall School District has announced a new partnership with the national nonprofit DonorsChoose to help teachers tap into a network of 4.7 million donors to support classroom projects and more seamlessly align with District strategy and operations.
Read More

MORE FROM TECH TIPS

Baldwin-Whitehall Educational Foundation

BWEF Celebrates Our Educators with Prizes and Experiences Every Day in May

Throughout the month of May, the Baldwin-Whitehall Educational Foundation is celebrating our outstanding educators through daily prizes. Winners and prizes will be announced daily through email. The month will also include on-site surprises at each of our schools. Read More

MORE FROM BWEF

Baldwin High School

Vigil Honors Victims of Identity-Based Violence

Baldwin High School held an all-night vigil to honor victims of identity-based violence. Victims honored were targeted because of their race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, or ability.
Read More

MORE FROM BHS

J.E. Harrison Education Center

Mrs. Fusco Named Most Valuable Principal by The Penguins Foundation

This program, highlighting the amazing work done over this past year, recognizes principals who demonstrate an innovative approach to learning, a continuous strive for excellence, and a passion for their school and students. We're not surprised that Mrs. Fusco made the list!
Read More

MORE FROM HEC

McAnnulty Elementary School

Students Celebrate McAnnulty’s Own Epilepsy Warrior Gianna

With the support and blessing of her family, Gianna’s classmates observed Purple Day for Epilepsy Awareness, a special day in which to celebrate their classmate and learn more about epilepsy.

According to the CDC, 470,000 children are diagnosed with Epilepsy nationwide. Approximately 6 out of 1,000 children (aged 0-17) have Active Epilepsy.
Read More

MORE FROM MES

Whitehall Elementary School

Student Writes Whitehall School Song

Raven, a second-grade student at WES, wrote a school song that students love to sing as they express their school pride.
Read More

MORE FROM WES

BW Creations Learns New Technique from Local Business Owner

Sharing Gratitude

Being Grateful

The faculty and staff of the Baldwin-Whitehall School District make a difference on a daily basis. Recently two parents expressed their appreciation to BWSD Superintendent Dr. Lutz. Read More

From Our Community Libraries

Create a Wire Sculpture through the Guidance of Local Artist

The Baldwin Borough Public Library is inviting children in grades K–12 to create a wire sculpture that speaks of your individualism, passion, hobby, cause, or anything that represents YOU!
Read More

The Whitehall Library is Now Open for Express Service

Browse the collection, check out items, and use the public computers during hours of operation at the Whitehall Library!
Read More

District Calendar

COMING SOON TO BWSD

Apr 22 Take Our Daughters and Sons to Work Day
Apr 22–24, 29–May 1 BHS Spring Musical: Once Upon A Mattress
Apr 27 Virtual Literacy Night at J.E. Harrison Education Center
Apr 28 Baldwin-Whitehall School District Sexual Assault Awareness Forum
May 5 BWSD School Board of Directors Meeting
May 12 BWSD School Board of Directors Meeting
May 13–16 Middle School Musical: Legally Blonde, Jr.

https://www.bwschools.net/our-district/calendars

Click Here to Share News for a Future Monthly Issue of Highlander Highlights.

March 2021

District News

Dr. Lutz Sworn in for Third Term as Superintendent

On March 3, 2021, Dr. Randal Lutz was sworn in for another 5-year term as Superintendent of the Baldwin-Whitehall School District.
Read More

Parent-to-Parent
with Dr. Lutz

How to Create Your Own Luck

When you start seeing good luck signs like four-leaf clovers and leprechauns, you know it must be St. Patrick’s Day. But did you ever wonder where the term “the luck of the Irish” came from?
Read More

Alumni Spotlight

Jeff Peretin: Building Productivity and Community through Relationships

Peretin thrives on understanding how processes work and helping them work better. He serves as President and CEO of Connors Group, a management consulting firm that enables clients to improve productivity and efficiency.
Read More

Athletic Spotlight

Stokes Sets School Swim Record at WPIAL Championship

Senior BHS swimmer Dylan Stokes made school history when he competed in the WPIAL swim championship and broke a Baldwin record. Read more in The Purbalite’s coverage by Grace Hampton.
Read More

MORE IN ATHLETICS

Inline Hockey Wins Fourth Straight Championship

Arts / Music

Mark Your Calendars for Legally Blonde, Jr.

An outstanding cast is rehearsing the production and it promises to be an incredible show. Legally Blonde, sponsored by Baldwin-Whitehall Friends of the Theater Arts, will run May 13–16.
Read More

MORE IN ARTS

Baldwin High School Presents Once Upon A Mattress

Raising Highlanders: Tech Tips for Parents

When You Wonder, You're Learning

With insights and practical advice from thinkers, scientists, and teachers—many of whom worked with Mister Rogers himself—the book When You Wonder, You're Learning explores how kids and their parents can excel at what Rogers taught best: being human.
Read More

Baldwin-Whitehall Educational Foundation

Spring Cleaning at Definitely You

Visit Definitely You in Brentwood Towne Square for a store-wide weekend sales event!

20% of all sales benefit the Baldwin-Whitehall Educational Foundation
Read More

MORE FROM BWEF

BWEF Now Accepting Scholarship Applications

Baldwin High School

Freezin for A Reason: Students Raise Over $7,000 for Special Olympics

Cold temperatures didn't phase BHS students with warm hearts who wanted to raise funds for the Special Olympics. The event was a creative recasting of the annual polar plunge.
Read More

MORE FROM BHS

J.E. Harrison Education Center

From There to Here, from Here to There, Reading Fun Is Everywhere!

J.E. Harrison Education Center celebrated Read Across America Week March 1–5. This annual event focuses on literacy and the fun it brings to our lives.
Read More

MORE FROM HEC

McAnnulty Elementary School

Students Explore the Seasons

Mr. Priano's kindergarten class explored the four seasons through literature during Read Across America week.
Read More

MORE FROM MES

Whitehall Elementary School

Kindness Week Showcases Student Generosity

Whitehall celebrated Kindness Week with fun activities and theme days, including dressing like superheroes and rock stars, but WES students were the real stars of the week.
Read More

MORE FROM WES

WES Students Receive Honorable Mentions for Shakespearean Monologues

Sharing Gratitude

Being Grateful

Dr. Lutz took time on Friday, March 12, 2021 to consider the significance of the day one year ago—Friday, March 13, 2020—when things changed with our collective global response to the onset of the coronavirus pandemic. In the midst of recognizing the profound challenges and losses, we are also aware of the many individuals we are grateful for. Read More

From Our Community Libraries

The Baldwin Borough Public Library Celebrates Two-Year Anniversary with Virtual Cocktail Party

The Baldwin Borough Public Library is celebrating two full years in our current location, and adults 21 and over are invited to celebrate virtually with us!
Read More

District Calendar

COMING SOON TO BWSD

Mar 26 Stall Day (MiniThon Fundraiser)
Mar 26 NHS Induction Ceremony
Mar 26–27 Vigil to Honor the Victims of Identity-Based Violence in conjunction with TogetherWeRemember.org and the LIGHT Education Initiative.
Mar 31 Early Dismissal: Spring Break
Apr 1–5 No School: Spring Break
Apr 6 Beginning of Fourth Nine Weeks
Apr 7 BWSD School Board of Directors Meeting
Apr 12 Report Cards Issued

https://www.bwschools.net/our-district/calendars

Click Here to Share News for a Future Monthly Issue of Highlander Highlights.

February 2021

District News

Dr. Janeen Peretin Recognized as Technology Administrator of the Year

This year Dr. Janeen Peretin, Director of Communication, Innovation, and Advancement for the District, has been selected as the Technology Administrator of the Year by The Pennsylvania Education Technology Expo and Conference.
Read More

MORE FROM BWSD

Parent-to-Parent
with Dr. Lutz

An Important Reminder About the “Domino Effect” of Responsibility

Lately, We’ve been asked the same question by families and administrators from other school districts:

“How is Baldwin doing it?”

What they mean is: how has Baldwin–Whitehall safely transitioned back to a four-day in-person learning schedule in the middle of a pandemic without experiencing a spike in COVID-19 infections?

The answer is simple: vigilance.

However, the actual truth is more complicated.
Read More

Alumni Spotlight

Jeff Eiben Helps Others Implement Technology Success

Pittsburgh has emerged as a key technology hub. One of the individuals in the midst of the thriving technology sector is 1988 Baldwin High School alumnus Jeff Eiben. Eiben is the owner of River Point Technology, an IT consulting firm serving businesses in the region and beyond.
Read More

Athletic Spotlight

Nowicki Helps Ice Hockey Team Remain Undefeated

BHS Hockey Team Goalie Eddie Nowicki stopped all 46 shots of the game to enable the team to beat Montour and maintain its undefeated season. Check out The Purbalite’s coverage by Ethan Spozarski.
Read More

Arts / Music

Baldwin Idol Concert Supports Charity

The vocal charity event, Baldwin Idol was held on Friday, February 12th. This year’s all-virtual concert featured 12 groups who sang for the vote of audience members.
Read More

MORE IN ARTS

Choir Musical Theater Workshop Gives Students a Glimpse of Life on Broadway

Raising Highlanders: Tech Tips for Parents

A Family's Guide to TikTok

Is TikTok safe? How does it work? And can I do a duet with my kid? Common Sense Meida outlines everything you need to know about this popular app.
Read More

Baldwin-Whitehall Educational Foundation

Spring Cleaning at Definitely You

Visit Definitely You in Brentwood Towne Square for a store-wide weekend sales event!

20% of all sales benefit the Baldwin-Whitehall Educational Foundation
Read More

MORE FROM BWEF

2021 BWEFScholarships

Baldwin High School

A Game Winning Drive

Over the past year, BHS students at Steel Center helped to transform community resident Bob Collet’s conversion van with a black and gold coat of paint fit for a tailgate! KDKA’s Fan N'ation recently featured the story.
Read More

MORE FROM BHS

Impact of the The Chill Project Seen in Students: Post-Gazette Interview with Mr. Tomaszewski

J.E. Harrison Education Center

Celebrating Black History Month at HEC with Freedom Quilts

Sixth-grade Visual Arts students at HEC are in the process of creating Freedom Quilt Squares, in the artistic style of textile artist Faith Ringgold.
Read More

MORE FROM HEC

McAnnulty Elementary School

Did Anyone Happen to See a Snowman Anywhere?

Students learned valuable lessons about good choices, consequences, kindness, and generosity, through the story of Sneezy the snowman.
Read More

MORE FROM MES

Whitehall Elementary School

ActivPanel Boards Provide Teachers New Tools for Instruction

In February, 40 classrooms at Whitehall received Promethean ActivPanel Boards to enhance their teaching through the use of technology. These interactive boards have allowed the teachers to connect with remote and in-person learners in a whole new engaging way.
Read More

Sharing Gratitude

Being Grateful

We have so much to be grateful for. Here are just a few of the individuals and groups we are thankful for everyday. Read More

From Our Community Libraries

Database Tool for Those Preparing for the GED, SAT, GRE, TOEFL, U.S. Citizenship, and More

The Whitehall Library subscribes to a database that is a great tool for students and many others in the community called Gale Presents: Peterson’s Test and Career Prep
Read More

District Calendar

COMING SOON TO BWSD

Mar 1 Auditions for the District's Middle School Musical: Legally Blonde, Jr.
Mar 2 Read Across America Day
Mar 3 BWSD School Board of Directors Meeting
Mar 14 Daylight Savings Time Begins
Mar 17 St. Patrick's Day
Mar 31 End of Third Nine Weeks

https://www.bwschools.net/our-district/calendars

Click Here to Share News for a Future Monthly Issue of Highlander Highlights.

January 2021

District News

Saying Thanks: January is School Director Recognition Month

At the first School Board of Directors meeting for 2021 the members of the Baldwin-Whitehall School District Board were greeted with handmade gifts and cards from the three elementary schools in the District.
Read More

MORE FROM BWSD

Baldwin–Whitehall School Board Signs Superintendent Lutz to New Contract Through 2026

Parent-to-Parent
with Dr. Lutz

How Can We Explain Difficult Subjects to Our Children?

These days, it seems like the news is full of topics that can be hard for parents to talk about with our kids.

Explaining something that we fully understand—or that we can easily look up the answer to—is easy enough. But explaining something that we may not fully understand, or a situation that is constantly changing as new information comes to light, is much harder.
Read More

Alumni Spotlight

BHS Alumna Susan Orsega to Be Appointed Acting Surgeon General

President Joe Biden plans to appoint BHS alumna Susan Orsega (class of ’86) as acting Surgeon General.

Rear Admiral Susan Orsega, MSN, FNP-BC, FAANP, FAAN, currently serves as Director of Commissioned Corps Headquarters, overseeing the 6,500 employees of the USPHS.
Read More

Athletic Spotlight

To Our Winter Athletes

In the midst of the challenges of this pandemic year, high school athletes have had to deal with the abrupt change to expectations and disappointment of disrupted seasons. The pandemic has shaped your resilience. We wish this wasn't the sports season you were having. Yet, we are so proud of the way you have persevered and represented the Fighting Highlanders.
Read More

Arts / Music

Joe Joyce to Direct Once Upon a Mattress as This Year’s Spring Musical

This year Baldwin High School welcomes a new director for the spring musical. Joe Joyce combines roots in Pittsburgh with a strong musical theater background.
Read More

MORE IN ARTS

BHS Choir Members Represent Baldwin at PMEA

Raising Highlanders: Tech Tips for Parents

Explaining the News to Our Kids

Dramatic, disturbing news events can leave parents speechless. These age-based tips from Common Sense Media on how to talk to kids about the news—and listen, too—can help.
Read More

MORE FROM TECH TIPS

Congratulations Keystone Technology Innovators

Baldwin-Whitehall Educational Foundation

BWEF Makes Teachers’ Day a Little Sweeter

Baldwin-Whitehall Educational Foundation distributed Sarris Candies to faculty, staff, and administration last month as a surprise holiday gift before winter recess. One bar in every school was specially marked and the lucky recipient won an Amazon gift card. Congratulations to our winners and we hope everyone had a great holiday season!
Read More

Baldwin High School

Mariah Jones Reaches for the Stars: Scholarship Program Enables Student to Attend

Mariah Jones is an outstanding student: a bright pupil with an interest in music and a dedicated athlete. She’s the kind of student any college would be glad to have a member of their campus community. Yet, when the high school senior considered college, she saw financial obstacles.
Read More

MORE FROM BHS

J.E. Harrison Education Center

Students Write Letters of Appreciation to Frontline Healthcare and Essential Workers

Fifth-graders at HEC wrote letters of support and thanks to medical workers and essential workers. Students did this as a way to show compassion, gratitude, and empathy for those that are taking care of the ill and working hard to ensure we have access to the things we need.
Read More

MORE FROM HEC

Middle School Musical Auditions Coming Soon

McAnnulty Elementary School

Creativity Continues through Virtual Learning

First-grade students at McAnnulty Elementary School, whether remote or hybrid, all created unique artwork. They then shared their masterpieces with classmates.
Read More

MORE FROM MES

Whitehall Elementary School

Fourth Grade Classrooms Adopt Penguins at the Pittsburgh Zoo

Fourth-grade students at Whitehall Elementary School were given a unique gift from their teachers this holiday season. Each teacher adopted a penguin from The PPG Pittsburgh Zoo & Aquarium for their class, as well as a fuzzy mascot for the classroom.
Read More

Sharing Gratitude

Being Grateful

Baldwin High School teacher Christopher Reilsono shares his gratitude for our community, "I just wanted to take a minute to thank you for your continued support of the clubs and activities here at Baldwin High School. In such a chaotic time, your willingness to not only adapt, but go the extra mile has truly been awe-inspiring." Read More

From Our Community Libraries

Baldwin Borough Library Hosts Winter Reading Club

Children and teens can add fun to the cold winter months by joining the winter reading program! The library has suggestions for books, activities for kids, and more!
Read More

Whitehall Library Continues to Serve Patrons

Even though we can’t serve you in person right now, the Whitehall Library is still here for you. Take our Winter Reading Challenge for all ages! Just grab a cup of hot cocoa, a good book and snuggle up and read for a chance to win a prize.
Read More

District Calendar

COMING SOON TO BWSD

Jan 25 Four-day in-person instruction planned to resume: grades 6-8
Feb 3 BWSD School Board of Directors Meeting
Feb 5 Report Cards Issued
Feb 8 BHS Curriculum Night, 7–12 Grade
Feb 9 BHS final day of the add/drop period for Spring Semester courses
Feb 12 Chinese New Year
Feb 12 Baldwin Idol: All Virtual
Feb 15 No School
Feb 16 Mardi Gras
Feb 17 Ash Wednesday
•All dates subject to change based on current conditions. Check for event updates at https://www.bwschools.net/our-district/calendars

Click Here to Share News for a Future Monthly Issue of Highlander Highlights.

December 2020

District News

Transportation Department Fills School Bus with Bicycles for Toys for Tots

The Baldwin-Whitehall School District Transportation Department stuffed a bus with 30 brand new bicycles for the US Marines’ Toys for Tots Foundation.
Read More

MORE FROM BWSD

Parent-to-Parent
with Dr. Lutz

The Gifts of Time and Growth

As 2020 comes to an end, many of us are searching for the best ways to show the people in our lives just how much we appreciate them. But what about gifts for ourselves? I’m not just talking about buying yourself an extra Starbucks gift card to go along with all of your stocking stuffers; I’m talking about giving yourself a gift that will last: the gift of getting better.
Read More

Alumni Spotlight

Tony Mendez on The Importance of Investing in Your Community

2018 Baldwin High School alumnus Tony Mendez has long loved numbers. Mendez recalls, “I’ve always excelled in math and had an interest in finding a deeper understanding in the numbers, leading me to statistics. I enjoy being able to analyze numbers in order to draw deeper conclusions that may not be obvious on the surface. Baldwin helped me gain more interest through all the AP classes offered, specifically economics and statistics.”
Read More

Athletic Spotlight

BHS Competitive Cheer Team Qualifies for Nationals

Though the competitions look different this year, the strength of the BHS Competitive Cheer team brought the same spirit to their performances, securing a place at the national competition. Through strong performances at Bishop McCourt’s Spiritfest Competition and UCA Allegheny Regionals the team qualified for nationals.
Read More

MORE IN ATHLETICS

Brothers on and off the Ice: Trevor and Dylan Belak

Arts / Music

Holiday Music Extravaganza Coming Soon!

This year, our community will be able to enjoy a virtual showcase of BWSD voice, band and orchestra talent on December 22nd.
Read More

Low or No Tech Family Holiday Activities

Embrace the fun over winter break with these creative activity ideas for kids of all ages—that might just bring out the kid in each of us.
Read More

Baldwin-Whitehall Educational Foundation

BWEF Recognized as an Educational Improvement Organization

Educational improvement organizations have a proven history of supporting initiatives that integrate, supplement, and enhance educational programs that are not part of the school district's regular academic programming or curriculum.
Read More

MORE FROM BWEF

Support BWEF through Amazon Smile

Baldwin High School

What Does It Look Like to Start College during a Pandemic?

High school seniors dream of starting college, from moving into the dorms, to their first day of classes. None of them planned on a pandemic. The BHS newspaper The Purbalite took a look at what embarking on college looks like during COVID by checking in with a number of recent BHS grads.
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MORE FROM BHS

J.E. Harrison Education Center

First Graders Take a Holiday Journey around the World

All first-grade students at Harrison Education Center in the Baldwin-Whitehall School District are participating in a Holidays Around the World Unit all throughout December.
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MORE FROM HEC

McAnnulty Elementary School

McAnnulty Elementary Celebrates the 50th Day of School

It’s important to find reasons to celebrate, especially this year! To mark the 50th day of school, students and staff dressed up like it was the 1950’s.
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MORE FROM MES

Pajama Day Brings Fun to the Classroom

Whitehall Elementary School

BW Creations Offers Student-Made Gifts for the Holiday Season

BW Creations, the student-run business from students at Whitehall Elementary School, makes hand sanitizer keychains, ornaments, and phone grips—all of which make great stocking stuffers.
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MORE FROM WES

MES and WES Students Join A Global Coding Movement

Sharing Gratitude

Being Grateful

First-grade teacher Tammy Rellick shares, “In a challenging year I’m counting my blessings and celebrating the memories being made. I’m so grateful for my amazing class and supportive families."
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From Our Community Libraries

Whitehall Library Still Serving Patrons

Due to the recent virus surge, the Whitehall Library has temporarily closed the doors for public check-outs and browsing. But they’re still there for you!
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District Calendar

COMING SOON TO BWSD

Dec 18 Last Day of Chanukah
Dec 24 Christmas Eve
Dec 24–Jan 3 No School: Winter Break
Dec 24 Christmas Day
Jan 1 New Year's Day
Jan 4 School Resumes
Check for updates for events at https://www.bwschools.net/our-district/calendars

Click Here to Share News for a Future Monthly Issue of Highlander Highlights.

November 2020

District News

Shift to Full Remote Learning Model

Beginning Tuesday, November 24, 2020, the Baldwin-Whitehall School District shifted all students to the full remote learning model. This change will last at least until December 11, 2020.
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MORE FROM BWSD

All District Schools to Celebrate Cultural Clothing Day

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Parent-to-Parent
with Dr. Lutz

Celebrating Old Traditions in New Ways

Due to the coronavirus pandemic which is currently on an alarming rise all across the country this year's holiday celebrations are likely to look very different from past years. As a result, families will need to get creative in order to find responsible ways to safely celebrate their favorite holiday traditions.
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Alumni Spotlight

Jolene Miklas Schneider Serves the Organizations that Serve Our Community

As a child, BHS alumna Jolene Miklas Schneider had big dreams and an even bigger heart. She recalls, "As a kid, I had two passions: writing, and trying to save the world! I remember writing a book about how to save the planet when I was 8." Those interests would chart her course in life.
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Athletic Spotlight

Gina Bolla Wins Gold at State

Senior Gina Bolla made history on Saturday by becoming the first Baldwin girls cross country runner in more than 30 years to earn a state medal.
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Arts / Music

Absolutely Wonderful BHS Student Has Absolute Pitch

Daijah Massie has a gift that few others can claim to possess. She can identify or recreate a given musical note without the aid of a reference tone.
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The Common Sense Census: Media Use by Kids Age Zero to Eight, 2020

This pre-pandemic snapshot of young kids' media use presents a unique opportunity to understand the impact of the pandemic combined with future research. The results of this report support solutions that provide all kids with access to media.
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MORE FROM TECH TIPS

Online Playdates, Game Nights, and Other Ways to Socialize at a Distance

Baldwin-Whitehall Educational Foundation

Support BWEF through Amazon Smile

Each time you make a purchase using Amazon Smile, a percentage of the sale will can support education in our District, at no additional cost to you. You can designate the BWEF as your charity of choice in just three steps. Thank you for your continued support during the holiday season.
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Baldwin High School

Homecoming Celebrates Highlander Pride

As with all activities, homecoming festivities looked different this year, but there's no way to dampen Highlander pride!
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MORE FROM BHS

J.E. Harrison Education Center

Staff Gets into the Celebratory Spirit

Students weren't the only ones who showed up in costume. Three staff members showed up in hippo costumes to find an amazing surprise: they had a trio. HEC Principal Ms. Fusco shares, "The best part is I had no idea those two were being hippos!"
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MORE FROM HEC

Modern Tools Enable Prehistoric Fun with Dinosaur Project

McAnnulty Elementary School

Students Practice Science Skills through Virtual Field Trips

McAnnulty's First Graders are using technology to explore new and exciting learning adventures!
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MORE FROM MES

Whitehall Elementary School

A Special Spooky Time

Students had a great time dressing up like beloved characters for this year's Halloween parade!
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MORE FROM WES

Sharing Gratitude

Being Grateful

Remote Learning recently took a turn for Mrs. Kuharic's P.E class. Instead of focusing on the students' physical health, students have been asked to self-reflect on what they are thankful for and who has made the biggest impact in their life.
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From Our Community Libraries

Baldwin Borough Public Library Needs Your Input

The Board of Trustees needs your input to envision the future of the Baldwin Library. We are currently developing a future library plan to make sure we are meeting the needs of our community. Please take 10 minutes to share your thoughts.
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Thank You for Loving Your Library

The Whitehall Public Library wishes to thank everyone that participated in this year's Love Your Library campaign. Gifts will be matched by the Jack Bunch Foundation.
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District Calendar

COMING SOON TO BWSD

Nov 25 Early dismissal: all students
Nov 26-30 No school: Thanksgiving break
Dec 1 Cultural Clothing Day: elementary schools
Dec 3 Cultural Clothing Day: all schools
Dec 7 Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day
Dec 9 BWSD School Board of Directors Meeting
Dec 11 Chanukah/Hanukkah (first day)
Check for updates for events at https://www.bwschools.net/our-district/calendars

Click Here to Share News for a Future Monthly Issue of Highlander Highlights.

October 2020

District News

District Offers Assignment Amnesty through October 25

In an effort to demonstrate gracious understanding of the challenges of these times and difficulty adapting to all-new ways of learning—with particular emphasis reported in the areas of accessing and submitting assignments, a plan has been thoughtfully discussed and approved to support students with these challenges.
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MORE FROM BWSD

Parent-to-Parent
with Dr. Lutz

Finding New Ways to Celebrate Longtime School Traditions

COVID-19 continues to alter the way we celebrate milestones throughout the school year.

However, just because we cannot hold a large in-person gathering this year, it does not mean we can’t still appreciate the essence of what homecoming really means, which is togetherness.

In fact, this year feels like the ideal time for all Fighting Highlanders past and present to celebrate our common bonds and experiences that unite us in school spirit, whether it be across the years, across great distances, or across a computer screen.
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Alumni Spotlight

Dr. Lisa Abel-Palmieri Is Empowering Youth and Enriching Learning

Dr. Abel-Palmieri serves as President & CEO of Boys & Girls Clubs of Western Pennsylvania, a nonprofit whose commitment to serve young people in our region has only strengthened through the pandemic.
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Athletic Spotlight

Volleyball Team Wins Big on Senior Rec Night

The girls varsity volleyball team came from behind to win its senior rec game against Mount Lebanon.
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Arts / Music

School Clubs Adapt in a Socially Distant World

From choir to language clubs to Best Buddies, clubs find creative new ways to meet their ongoing goals.
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Raising Highlanders: Tech Tips for Parents

How to Find Credible Information about The Election

In a world where there is no shortage of information, it's important to teach children how to find credible information, especially during election season.
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MORE FROM TECH TIPS

How to Create a Canvas Observer Account

Baldwin-Whitehall Educational Foundation

An Open Letter to BWSD Faculty, Staff, and Administration

Your work in sustaining teaching, learning, operations, and district activities for our children amidst a global pandemic is remarkable. The time you have devoted to adapting to ever changing circumstances and requirements is sometimes unseen but not unnoticed.

The members of BWEF wanted to send a note of appreciation for the work that you are doing to make this school year the best that it can be.
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Baldwin High School

BHS Students at The Steel Center Give Van a Steelers Makeover

Baldwin High School students at The Steel Center gave a tailgating van a fresh coat of black and gold that befits an ardent Steelers fan.
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MORE FROM BHS

J.E. Harrison Education Center

Integrating Technology in the Classroom: Student Adaptability and Teacher Dedication Shine

The District has had to adapt to tectonic shifts in their strategies to provide education during a pandemic. Tammy Rellick, first-grade teacher at J.E. Harrison Education Center, notes that the District’s longstanding emphasis on technology integration laid the groundwork for adapting to this time.
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MORE FROM HEC

McAnnulty Elementary School

New Activities and New Habits at MES

Kindergarten students at McAnnulty were smiling behind those masks as they completed fun activities in the classroom.
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MORE FROM MES

Whitehall Elementary School

BW Creations Welcome Teachers Back to School

BW Creations, the student-run business from Whitehall Elementary, welcomed the teachers and staff back to school this year with mugs and phone grips saying “Teachers can do VIRTUALLY everything.”
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Sharing Gratitude

Being Grateful

In the midst of all the challenges this year has brought, there is much kindness and care. Superintendent Lutz shares a few perspectives of gratitude.
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From Our Community Libraries

Whitehall Public Library Hosts Halloween Storywalk with Craft and Treat Bag

This is a self-led walk for families to enjoy while social distancing! Families will receive a take-home activity bag at the end of the walk based on themes from the featured book.
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District Calendar

COMING SOON TO BWSD

Oct 27 WES: Halloween parade and craft for hybrid group 1
Oct 30 HEC: Halloween parade for group 2 students
Oct 30 WES: Halloween parade and craft for hybrid group 2
Nov 1 Daylight Saving Time ends
Nov 2 HEC: Halloween parade for group 1 students
Nov 3 Election Day: remote learning for all students
Nov 4 No school: professional development/clerical
Nov 4 BWSD School Board of Directors meeting
Nov 6 End of first nine weeks
Nov 16 Report cards issued
Nov 18 Conferences: early dismissal, all students
Check for updates for events at https://www.bwschools.net/our-district/calendars

Click Here to Share News for a Future Monthly Issue of Highlander Highlights.

September 2020

District News

Social Distancing Signage Unites Fun and Safety

Age-appropriate signs remind students of the new guidelines and help them get into good habits. The District’s fab lab was utilized to produce the signage, showing yet another way that this multi-purpose tool serves our students.
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MORE FROM BWSD

Parent-to-Parent
with Dr. Lutz

Teachers are Taking Hybrid Learning to New Heights

They say innovation is often one part creativity and two parts necessity. Nothing has proven that point more clearly to me than the big improvement in our shift to hybrid and remote learning to start the 2020-2021 school year, as compared to our initial move to online classes back in April.
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Alumni Spotlight

Mike Valdiserri Lights up the Region

Mike Valdiserri, Baldwin High School class of 1977, has an explosively successful career as a sales project manager for Zambelli Fireworks.
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Athletic Spotlight

The Highlander Returns—with Original Dance Moves

Senior Dylan Farabaugh will get the opportunity to show off his spirit, energy, and hip-hop moves as Baldwin’s new Highlander mascot.
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Arts / Music

Marching Band Takes Social Distancing in Stride

All aspects of life at BHS are having to adapt to keep everyone safe, including the marching band. Students are staying in step with safety and still providing the Highlander spirit.
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Raising Highlanders: Tech Tips for Parents

Baldwin-Whitehall School District Receives EVERFI Champion Seal Designation for Commitment to Whole-Child Education

We are honored to be one of fewer than five percent of districts across the nation to earn the EVERFI Student Impact Champion designation.
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Baldwin-Whitehall Educational Foundation

BWEF Awards Scholarships to Six BHS Graduates

Thanks to our community partners, BWEF awarded $6,000 in scholarship funds this past school year, raising the scholarship funding to nearly $20,000 in the past three years.
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Baldwin High School

Donate for a Chance to Shave Mr. Jankoski’s Beard

Baldwin-Whitehall School District Transition Coordinator Eric Jankoski has been nominated for Best Buddies Pennsylvania’s Champion of the Year 2020.
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MORE FROM BHS

BHS Library Offers Curbside Pick-up and Drop-off

J.E. Harrison Education Center

Teachers and Students Adapt Quickly to Canvas

Teachers from Harrison Education Center have been quick to educate themselves and implement the new Canvas learning platform into their classroom rhythms.
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MORE FROM HEC

BWSD Students Help with Family Business during Pandemic

McAnnulty Elementary School

Welcome to the Class of 2033

Greeting a new set of students always brings our teachers and staff joy. This year, we are delighted to welcome the class of 2033. We can’t wait to watch you grow!
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MORE FROM MES

Back to School Photos

Whitehall Elementary School

Opportunities for Learning: Students Take Virtual Field Trips Powered by Canvas

Teachers saw opportunity in the integration of the new learning platform, Canvas. There are specific design features that give the students the ability to participate in a variety of engaging lessons using Canvas discussions, student-created videos, and even a math lesson at the Taj Mahal.
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Sharing Gratitude

Being Grateful

While we can be mindful of the elevated stress this year has brought, members of our community also go out of their way to notice the ways others brighten our days. Here are a few shout outs from BHS.
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From Our Community Libraries

Open for Business

While uncertainty continues to surround us, one thing remains consistent: the Whitehall Public Library supports and serves the community.
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District Calendar

COMING SOON TO BWSD

Oct 1 WES School Pictures Group 2
Oct 2 MES School Pictures Gr. K-1 Group 2
Oct 5 School Pictures HEC Gr. K-6 Group 1
Oct 6 BHS Picture Day Gr. 7 & 8 (Group 1)
Oct 7 School Board of Directors Meeting
Oct 8 School Pictures HEC K-6 Group 2
Oct 9 BHS Picture Day 7 & 8 (Group 2)
Oct 12 BHS Picture Day Gr. 9 & 10 (Group 1)
Oct 13 BHS Picture Day Gr. 11 & 12 (Group 1)
Oct 15 BHS Picture Day Gr. 9 & 10 (Group 2)
Oct 16 BHS Picture Day Gr. 11 & 12 (Group 2) & Makeup Day (Group 2)
Oct 25 Dusshra
Oct 31 Halloween
Check for updates for events at https://www.bwschools.net/our-district/calendars

Click Here to Share News for a Future Monthly Issue of Highlander Highlights.

2019-2020

May/June 2020

April 2020

District News

Dr. Lutz Interviewed by National Education Magazine on the Opportunity to Innovate

We can all learn from this experience. That's what District Superintendent Randal Lutz shared with District Administration, a national monthly magazine for more than 230,000 K-12 public school administrators.
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MORE FROM BWSD

Parent-to-Parent
with Dr. Lutz

All the Time in the World

Do you ever find yourself saying “I really wish I had the time” to do something, but you just keep putting it off instead? Well, I have some good news for you: right now, most of us have all the time we need.

In our current stay-at-home era, we’re no longer commuting, shopping, traveling, or carpooling our kids to practices and field trips the way we normally do. So while it may take some time to find the right balance for our “new normal” of working, teaching, and parenting from home—and while the healthcare, delivery, grocery, and numerous other essential workers in our lives definitely need all of the extra time and support they can get—the reality is that most of us now have much more free time than we’ve ever had before.
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Alumni Spotlight

Wayne Jones: Influencing Communities for Good

Wayne A. Jones cares deeply about the communities he’s been part of and loves being involved in fostering positive change. It’s a passion that was sparked in his days at Baldwin High School.
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Athletic Spotlight

Baldwin Hockey Team Boasts 17-1 Season and Competes in Penguin Cup Finals

The Baldwin High School hockey team has had a banner year. The team boasted a record of 17-1 and stands as the number one seed in the AA class ranking. Their strong season won them a place in the Penguin Cup Finals.
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MORE IN ATHLETICS

Tim Sweeney Named New Football Coach

Arts / Music

District Honored for Music Program

Baldwin-Whitehall has again been selected by the National Association of Music Merchants as a Best Community for Music Education! BWSD is one of the 754 school districts awarded nationwide, 114 in PA, and 16 in Allegheny County.
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MORE IN ARTS

Melodies of Learning: Music Department Serves Students through Distance Learning

Raising Highlanders: Tech Tips for Parents

A Family Guide to Google Classroom

We have resources to help families navigate Google Classroom during this time of distance learning.
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MORE FROM TECH TIPS

Baldwin-Whitehall Educational Foundation

BWEF Accepting Scholarship Applications

The Baldwin-Whitehall Educational Foundation is now accepting scholarship applications from the Class of 2020.

Please be encouraged to apply for one of numerous scholarship opportunities.

Deadline to submit an application is Sunday, April 26th, 2020. As a new feature this year: We are accepting all components of the application electronically, including letters of recommendation (if applicable). Information and applications are available on the BWEF website.
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Baldwin High School

High School Junior Sews Masks for Medical Professionals Serving during Pandemic

John Sciarretti has been sewing masks for medical professionals in the area. His goal is to sew 300. He’s already well on his way, having sewn and distributed 80 masks.
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MORE FROM BHS

Harrison Middle School

Mrs. Kuharic Offers Fusion Fitness to Keep Kids Moving

Samantha Kuharic understands the importance of keeping students moving, even when they are home, so has been offering creative distance instruction to help students stay active.
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MORE FROM HMS

McAnnulty Elementary School

Positive Routines Help Students Connect

Throughout the school year MES teacher Ms. Thorhauer has used “The Goodbye Song” to help her students end each school day with a moment of connection. That tradition has taken on new meaning as routines have turned upside down.

Ms. Thorhauer shares, “During our regular classroom routines, ‘The Goodbye Song’ helps us end each day on a positive note and to leave school with a good feeling. Now, I think the words ‘so long, for now, until we meet again’ hold a different meaning. I wanted to provide a way for students to still ‘see’ each other each day and know that no matter how far apart we may be, we can still come together as a classroom and support each other. ”
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MORE FROM MES

Sidewalk Chalk Obstacles Help Neighbors Get Outside

Paynter Elementary School

Spotted: The Easter Bunny

The Easter Bunny got a little help from Principal Tricia Fusco this year. Ms. Fusco traveled throughout the area waving to kids and spreading springtime joy! Her appearance was part of the Sarris Candy fundraiser delivery via curbside pick up.
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MORE FROM PES

Physical Education Staff Create Resources to Help Students Stay Active

Whitehall Elementary School

Student Raises Funds and Awareness for Epilepsy

When Logan Huwalt was in third grade he was diagnosed with epilepsy. In the two years since then the Whitehall student has raised over $6,000 for the Epilepsy Association of Western and Central Pennsylvania.
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MORE FROM WES

From Our Community Libraries

Discover the Resources Available on Whitehall Library’s Website

Although the Whitehall Library, along with schools and many other places of business, has been mandated to close, they remain wholly committed to the community, the school district, and public service to everyone.
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Baldwin Borough Public Library Hosts Online Storytime for Children

Join the librarians from Baldwin Borough Public Library for storytime every Tuesday and Thursday at 7:00 pm, hosted on their Facebook page. Videos are also available on their YouTube page.
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March 2020

District News

Coronavirus Preparedness, News, and Updates

The Baldwin-Whitehall School District has created a centralized location for all information related to the coronavirus (COVID-19). It includes all relevant updates from the District, as well as links to important news, information, and best practices from trusted health organizations.
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MORE FROM BWSD

In Memoriam: Rosemarie Cibik

Parent-to-Parent
with Dr. Lutz

Lessons in Uncertainty

How we respond to challenges like the coronavirus as educators — and also as parents — is a lesson that our children will learn from. Our behavior in a crisis shows our children how they should react to uncertainty. When we offer positive examples of healthy behavior, we teach our kids how to face adversity with courage, wisdom, and compassion.
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Alumni Spotlight

Senator Pam Iovino Serves the Community

Senator Pam Iovino represents the 37th State Senatorial District, which includes the borough of Whitehall.
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BHS Cheer Team Boasts Strong Performance at National Competition at Disney World

In February the students of the Baldwin High School Cheerleaders competition team competed with the best in the country at the National High School Cheerleading Championship hosted at ESPN at Walt Disney World.
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MORE IN ATHLETICS

Arts / Music

Seventh Grade Poetry Gallery Walk

Students in seventh grade ELA participated in the annual Poetry Gallery Walk in the HMS Library, where they had the opportunity to share their original poetry, listen to student presenters, and enjoy cookies in a cafe style setting.
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Raising Highlanders: Tech Tips for Parents

Are Your Kids Anxious about Coronavirus?

Kidsburgh spoke with Pittsburgh family physician and parenting expert, Dr. Deborah Gilboa, also known as Dr. G, about the coronavirus pandemic, how best to address it with your kids, and the steps you can take to reduce its spread.
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Baldwin-Whitehall Educational Foundation

Distinguished Highlander Hall of Fame Gala Postponed for Safety of Community

Based on the Baldwin-Whitehall School District's Closure Letter regarding COVID-19, the Baldwin-Whitehall Educational Foundation has postponed the Distinguished Highlander Hall of Fame Gala scheduled for Saturday, March 21, 2020. At this time, a new date has not been determined.

We have placed a freeze on the sale of new tickets, new sponsorships, and any new donations associated with the gala as of Thursday, March 12, 2020. Please see our question and answer section below for more details. We appreciate your understanding.

Sincerely,
Baldwin-Whitehall Educational Foundation
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Baldwin High School

Students Analyze Solutions to Electronic Waste at Covestro

Covestro challenged South Fayette and Baldwin High School students to dive into the problem of electronic waste and offer some solutions for their company as consultants.
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MORE FROM BHS

Harrison Middle School

Students Compete in Design Lives Here Challenge at WQED

Design Lives Here activities are inspired by the popular PBS KIDS program and website, Design Squad Nation.
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MORE FROM HMS

McAnnulty Elementary School

Read-a-Thon Promotes a Love of Literacy

Throughout the first two weeks in March, children at McAnnulty Elementary School participated in a Read-a-Thon sponsored by the PTO.

On Wednesday, March 11, Mrs. Hustava's Happy Campers were delighted when Dr. Lutz took time from a very busy week to read two books to them.
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MORE FROM MES

Paynter Elementary School

Students Learn about Healthy Eating for Healthy Hearts

Every February Paynter Elementary takes time to reinforce “healthy heart habits” that students can use for a lifetime.
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MORE FROM PES

Whitehall Elementary School

WES Recognized for Success of Positive Behavior Interventions Support

The PBIS is built around Whitehall ROARS and students earning ROARS tickets for demonstrating the school wide expectations (Respect, Ownership, Acceptance, Ready to Learn, and Safety). This foundation impacts all students and has improved student behaviors and decreased discipline referrals.
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From Our Community Libraries

Multicultural Potluck Dinner Brings the Community Together

The Whitehall Public Library would like to thank the Baldwin-Whitehall School District for their partnership and support towards the successful Multicultural Potluck Dinner hosted at Baldwin High School on February 24th.
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District Calendar

COMING SOON TO BWSD

https://www.bwschools.net/our-district/calendars

Click Here to Share News for a Future Monthly Issue of Highlander Highlights.

February 2020

District News

Champions of Character Exemplify the Heart of the District

The Baldwin-Whitehall Educational Foundation is pleased to announce the 2020 Champions of Character and Above and Beyond awardees. Awardees will be recognized at the the Distinguished Highlander Hall of Fame Gala on March 21st.
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Parent-to-Parent
with Dr. Lutz

Change Happens One Step at a Time

Remember the movie Groundhog Day? In it, Bill Murray plays Phil, a weatherman who gets stuck reliving the same miserable day of his life, over and over. The movie is on people’s minds again this month after Jeep aired a Super Bowl commercial with a modern twist on the story: Phil “borrows” a new 2020 Jeep and takes it on a series of extreme outdoor adventures, to help him break out of his repetitive rut.
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Alumni Spotlight

Angela Garcia: Sharing Surplus and Saving Lives

Global Links is a Pittsburgh non-profit that rescues that medical equipment and makes sure it goes to good use in other communities. Angela Garcia is Executive Director of Global Links and a BHS alumna.
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Athletic Spotlight

Four Hockey Players Represent Baldwin at All-Star Game

Junior Keith Reed scored a goal and senior Paul Zmuda had an assist on Sunday at the PIHL All-Star game at RMU Island Sports center. Two other Baldwin players were all-stars: senior Tanner Cindrich and junior Dylan Belak.
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Arts / Music

District Students Participate in Pittsburgh Youth Chorus’ Singing Saturday

Congratulations to Chloe Barhart, Laylah Chadderton, Nora Eckert, Gianna Harkins, Logan Huwalt, and Juliana Morton who will represent Whitehall Elementary at the Pittsburgh Youth Chorus’ Singing Saturday event.
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Raising Highlanders: Tech Tips for Parents

STEAM Showcase

On January 17, 2020, the Allegheny Intermediate Unit and Remake Learning teamed up to host the 2020 STEAM Showcase and Network Assembly at Nova Place.
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Baldwin-Whitehall Educational Foundation

Spring Sale at Definitely You Benefits BWEF

For the second year in a row, BWEF is partnering with Definitely You in Brentwood Towne Square for a Spring Cleaning clearance event.
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MORE FROM BWEF

Send a Message to the Distinguished Highlanders!

Baldwin High School

Baldwin High School Celebrates Grand Opening of the Mindfulness Center

The CHILL Project Mindfulness Center at Baldwin High School is an emotional wellness partnership with Allegheny Health Network.
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MORE FROM BHS

Baldwin High School Students Honored in 2020 Scholastic Art Awards

Harrison Middle School

Sixth-Grade Students Learn about Heart Health

Students learned about heart-rates and how they can keep their heart healthy with Mr. Gigliotti.
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MORE FROM HMS

McAnnulty Elementary School

BWSD Pilot District for PBS Show Molly of Denali through McAnnulty Masterminds

This program has been a successful offering at McAnnulty Elementary School for several years. This year Baldwin-Whitehall is the pilot district for the new PBS show, Molly of Denali!
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MORE FROM MES

Paynter Elementary School

Reading is “SNOW” Much Fun!

Paynter Elementary hosted a literacy night themed around Disney's movie Frozenfor all students and their families. With a turn-out of close to 400 people, families were invited to stop by various literacy stations that were set up throughout the building.
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MORE FROM PES

Whitehall Elementary School

Students Present Their Business at STEAM Showcase

The fifth-grade student business, BW Creations, was invited to sell at the STEAM Showcase sponsored by the AIU and Remake Learning on January 17th.
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MORE FROM WES

From Our Community Libraries

Third-Annual We’re All Neighbors Multicultural Potluck Dinner: It’s a Beautiful Buffet in The Neighborhood!

Nothing brings a community together like good food and conversation, so come for dinner and meet your neighbors!
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Board Opening: Baldwin Borough Public Library

The Baldwin Borough Public Library is pleased to announce it is accepting applications to fill one vacancy on the Library’s Board of Trustees.
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January 2020

Highlander Highlights - Baldwin-Whitehall School District

January 2020

District News

Explore Multiple District Positions at Upcoming Job Fair

Positions include wonderful opportunities for those who would like a flexible schedule while contributing to the excellence of the Baldwin-Whitehall School District.
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MORE FROM BWSD

Parent-to-Parent
with Dr. Lutz

Beating the Winter Blues

So far, this winter has been on the mild side, but now we're clearly heading into the cold stretch. This is the time of year when almost everyone would rather stay indoors than go outside, and our TVs, phones, and video games will get even more attention than usual.

In other words: it’s couch potato season.

Alumni Spotlight

Kenneth Murawski: Standing Strong and Giving Back

Murawski was an outstanding member of the Baldwin High School football team in the 1970’s. Yet, Murawski’s impact extends far beyond the field as he made a significant difference in his community.
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Athletic Spotlight

Harrison Middle School Wrestling Team Has Strong Showing

It was a great weekend of wrestling for Coach Bilbie and his boys from the Harrison Middle School wrestling team.
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MORE IN ATHLETICS

Competition Cheer Team Makes History with First Ever WPIAL Win

Arts / Music

BHS Student Earns Spot in Cadets Elite Drum Core

The Cadets are one of 13 founding corps of Drum Corps International, a junior drum and bugle corps based in Indianapolis for the most elite marchers and musicians.
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MORE IN ARTS

News from the Music Department

Raising Highlanders: Tech Tips for Parents

Congratulations Keystone Technology Innovators!

The Keystone Technology Innovator Program identifies, invites, and supports exemplary educators into a distinct and dynamic learning community. Keystones advocate the use of technology as a transformative tool to nurture the intellect, innovation, and imagination of students.
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Baldwin-Whitehall Educational Foundation

Distinguished Highlander Alumni Hall of Fame Inductees Announced

The Baldwin-Whitehall Educational Foundation is pleased to announce the Distinguished Highlander Alumni Hall of Fame inductees, who will be inducted into the Class of 2020 at the Distinguished Highlander Hall of Fame Gala on March 21st.
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MORE FROM BWEF

Plan to Attend The Distinguished Highlander Hall of Fame Gala

Baldwin High School

BHS Cast Brings Normal-C Back to the Stage at CCAC

Following on the world premier of the musical Normal-C at Baldwin High School last fall, the cast will present the musical at CCAC from January 17–18th.
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Harrison Middle School

Save the Joeys: Students Make Crafts to Help Kangaroos Orphaned by Forest Fires

Students will be using sewing machines in the Home Economics room and donated fabric to create Joey Pouches, Koala, or other small animal pouches for animals orphaned by the forest fires in Australia.
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MORE FROM HMS

McAnnulty Elementary School

Students Learn through Buddy Mentoring

Older students are paired with younger students at MES to help all of them learn and grow.
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MORE FROM MES

Paynter Elementary School

@PaynterForever

The staff of Paynter have begun the Twitter account @paynterforever which will tweet fun facts and memories of Paynter from current and former staff and students over the remaining days at the building.
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MORE FROM PES

Whitehall Elementary School

Wearing Kindness

Whitehall participated in its first Wear it Wednesday on January 8th, 2020 as a result of the District joining the #bethekindkid movement.
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MORE FROM WES

From Our Community Libraries

Third-Annual We’re All Neighbors Multicultural Potluck Dinner: It’s a Beautiful Buffet in The Neighborhood!

Nothing brings a community together like good food and conversation, so come for dinner and meet your neighbors!
Read More

COMING SOON TO BWSD

Jan 16 PES PTA Meeting
Jan 17 MES & WES Family Bingo
Jan 20 No School, Professional Development Day, *First Snow Make-Up Day
Jan 22 BWSD District Job Fair
Jan 24 HMS Winterfest January
Jan 25 Chinese New Year
Jan 27 End of 2nd Nine Weeks

Click Here to Share News for a Future Monthly Issue of Highlander Highlights.

December 2019

District News

Dare to Lead: District Leadership Retreat

Taking part in the retreat allowed the leadership of the District to reflect on the District’s identity and mission and plan for the future.
Read More

MORE FROM BWSD

Parent-to-Parent
with Dr. Lutz

The Best Gift of All?

I don’t think I’ve ever met a child who doesn’t enjoy opening a gift. That box underneath the tree with their name on it could have anything inside! So it’s no surprise that for many kids, the winter holidays are all about answering one big question: “What did you get?” But as we grow up, the highlights of the holidays tend to depend less on what we get and more on what we give.
Read More

Alumni Spotlight

Gwen Schemm on Finding Your Voice

A senior at Frostburg State, Schemm is pursuing a double major in Communication Studies and Psychology with a minor in Journalism.
Read More

High School Athletes Step Toward the Future with Signing Day

Seven Baldwin High School athletes participated in signing day. Signing day has become a national tradition wherein students sign letters of intent with the school they have decided to attend.
Read More

Arts / Music

District Students Collaborate with Penguins Foundation on Holiday Greeting

Students from Baldwin High School and Paynter Elementary School collaborated with the Pittsburgh Penguins Foundation to create a video that highlights the wonderful work the Penguins Foundation does in our community.
Read More

MORE IN ARTS

BHS Student Selected for PMEA District Chorus

Raising Highlanders: Tech Tips for Parents

How Plugged-In Families Can Have a Device-Free(ish) Holiday

Our friends at Common Sense Media are at the ready with some tips to help plugged in families have a device-free(ish) holiday season.
Read More

Baldwin-Whitehall Educational Foundation

Join BWEF for December Madness

Patterned after March Madness, chances to win are only $10 and proceeds go to support education in the District.
Read More

MORE FROM BWEF

Plan to Attend The Distinguished Highlander Hall of Fame Gala

Baldwin High School

In Memoriam: David Spahr Leaves Behind Legacy of Educational Excellence

In October of 2017, Spahr retired after spending 55 years as a high school chemistry, physics, and math teacher at Baldwin High School.
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MORE FROM BHS

Harrison Middle School

Harrison Middle School Hosts Musical Christmas Cafe

The musicians of the Harrison Middle School band, choirs, and orchestra performed holiday music for guests.
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MORE FROM HMS

Daniel Shaner Serving on Teachers Advisory Council

McAnnulty Elementary School

Students Express Their Creativity in Art Class

Students learned about repetition, pattern building, and watercolor resist techniques.
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MORE FROM MES

Paynter Elementary School

The Veterans Breakfast Club Visits Paynter Elementary School

It was a special morning as these veterans shared their experiences with students and staff.
Read More

MORE FROM PES

Whitehall Elementary School

Educational Technology Expands Students Perspectives

Students in Mrs. Frohliger’s STEAM/Media Lab have been busy learning how to use Educational Technology this past month.
Read More

MORE FROM WES

BW Creations Spotlight: A Fifth Grade Business

From Our Community Libraries

Tech Gifts Keep Giving with Digital Resources from The Library

If you’re asking Santa for a new smartphone, tablet, or laptop for Christmas, then be sure to check out all of the amazing downloadable resources that you can access for free from the public library.
Read More

November 2019

District News

Cookie Bakers Needed!

The Baldwin-Whitehall School District is hosting the third-annual Holiday Cookie Extravaganza for Senior Citizens.
Read More

Parent-to-Parent
with Dr. Lutz

The Upside of Gratitude

Thanksgiving is a holiday that’s nominally dedicated to giving thanks, but sometimes I think the big lesson about gratitude ends up getting get lost somewhere between the turkey, the pumpkin pie, and the post-football nap.
Read More

Alumni Spotlight

Morgan O’Brien: Leading through Service

Morgan O’Brien is the president and chief executive officer of Peoples Natural Gas Company and a member of the Baldwin High School class of 1978.
Read More

Athletic Spotlight

Harrison Middle School Swim Team Wraps up an Excellent Season

The girls took home first place and boys came in second at their last invitational.
Read More

Arts / Music

Baldwin High School Presented World Premiere of Normal-C Musical

With a book by J.R. Hall and music and lyrics by Jason Coll, the musical explored the unique perspective and gifts each one of us brings to the world.
Read More

MORE IN ARTS

Weidensall Play Featured in City Theatre’s Young Playwrights Festival

Raising Highlanders: Tech Tips for Parents

Survey Says...Media Use by Tweens and Teens: 2019

The Common Sense Census: Media Use by Tweens and Teens, 2019 is a big-picture look at how young people in the U.S. find entertainment and use devices.
Read More

MORE FROM TECH TIPS

A Family Guide to TikTok

Baldwin-Whitehall Educational Foundation

Mark Your Calendars for The Distinguished Highlander Hall of Fame Gala

The Baldwin-Whitehall Educational Foundation is honored to invite you to the signature event of the year: The Distinguished Highlander Hall of Fame Gala on March 21st, 2020, at South Hills Country Club.
Read More

Baldwin High School

Baldwin High School Student Paired with Chef of Casbah for Tastebuds Event

On November 18th, Best Buddies hosted their annual fundraiser Tastebuds at the David L. Lawrence Convention Center.
Read More

MORE FROM BHS

The Purbalite Now Available Via App

Harrison Middle School

They Played for Their Lives: Documentary Shows How Music Helped Individuals Survive the Holocaust

“They Played For Their Lives” presents stories of Jews who survived the Holocaust due to their musical ability.
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MORE FROM HMS

McAnnulty Elementary School

McAnnulty Elementary School Fall Festival

This annual event is presented by the PTO and is a highlight of the season for students.
Read More

MORE FROM MES

MES and WES Participate in International Hour of Code Week

Paynter Elementary School

Get into the Holiday Spirit with the PES Fifth-Grade Choir

The fifth-grade choir has been hard at work to prepare for a wonderful selection of holiday concerts.
Read More

MORE FROM PES

STEAM Class Sparks Imaginations

Whitehall Elementary School

Fifth-Grade Entrepreneurs Launch Product and Share Their Story

Students presented components of running a business while the parents enjoyed donuts and coffee at a breakfast hosted at WES.
Read More

MORE FROM WES

Students Learn to Be Good Digital Citizens

From Our Community Libraries

No Internet? No Problem! Internet Hot Spots Available from Whitehall Public Library

Whitehall Public Library now lends even more Wi-Fi hotspots, available to borrow on a first-come, first-served basis.
Read More

COMING SOON TO BWSD

Nov 21 PES PTA Meeting
Nov 23 HMS Glow Dance
Nov 27 Early Dismissal
Nov 28–Dec 2 District Thanksgiving Break: No School
Dec 4 BWSD School Board of Directors Meeting
Dec 7 BHS Gifts of Dance
Dec 7 WES Choir Caroling at Caste Village
Dec 9 MES & WES PTO Meeting

Click Here to Share News for a Future Monthly Issue of Highlander Highlights.

October 2019

District News

Baldwin-Whitehall School District Hosts 2019 TRETC

Area educators came together around the theme, “Technology and the Future of Learning.”
Read More

MORE FROM BWSD

Parent-to-Parent
with Dr. Lutz

The Surprising Life Lesson That's Hiding in Halloween

For most kids (and most parents), Halloween is a fun holiday that’s all about costumes and candy. Yet, underneath all those creepy masks and candy wrappers, I believe there’s also a useful lesson for parents and kids alike: Halloween is our annual reminder that fear is a choice. But I don’t mean the typical Halloween fears like vampires and werewolves; I mean the worries that really keep us up at night.
Read More

Alumni Spotlight

Doug Altavilla Pursues Excellence on and off the Field

Altavilla explains that the strong foundation he received from his family and the District has been central to his character and accomplishments.
Read More

Athletic Spotlight

Fighting Highlanders Beat Bethel Park in Double Overtime in Dramatic Homecoming Win

The football season is off to an incredible start with four back-to-back wins.
Read More

Arts / Music

Normal-C Musical Delves into What Makes Individuals Special—Including Those with Special Needs

This fall Baldwin High School will present the world premiere of Normal-C. With a book by J.R. Hall and music and lyrics by Jason Coll, the musical explores the unique perspective and gifts each one of us brings to the world.
Read More

MORE IN ARTS

Jim Wodarek Exhibit Opening in Sharpsburg

Raising Highlanders: Tech Tips for Parents

Students as E-Commerce CEOs

The good folks at Kidsburgh recently featured the BW Creations team in their article about kids who are e-commerce CEOs through EdCorps.
Read More

MORE FROM TECH TIPS

11 Social Media Red Flags Parents Should Know About

Baldwin-Whitehall Educational Foundation

Make Plans to Attend The Distinguished Highlander Hall of Fame Gala

Baldwin High School

Baldwin High School Hosts SCREENAGERS Documentary and Discussion

The Baldwin-Whitehall School District will be hosting a screening of the documentary SCREENAGERS to help parents and teens in the community constructively dialogue around this topic.
Read More

Harrison Middle School

The Veterans Breakfast Club Visits Harrison Middle School

The Veterans Breakfast Club was born from a remarkable gathering of thirty World War II veterans brought together in the suburbs of Pittsburgh in the fall of 2008 simply to share their stories.
Read More

MORE FROM HMS

McAnnulty Elementary School

Learning together through McAnnulty Masterminds

The third year of the McAnnulty Masterminds program is off to a wonderful start! Through the generosity of WQED and the PBS Ready to Learn Grant, this program promotes a strong home-school partnership for students and their families. Students and their parents come together at MES to learn together. Sessions this year focus on math skills. From cooperative learning strategies, to approaches to addition, and coding with BeeBot robots, lessons engage and delight.
Read More

MORE FROM MES

Teaching With Technology

Paynter Elementary School

Social and Emotional Learning Allows Students to LEAP into The 2019–2020 School Year

Several times a week students actively engage in building positive relationships, managing their emotions, and learning how to make responsible decisions.
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MORE FROM PES

Whitehall Elementary School

Open Up Pittsburgh Facilitating Mindfulness Sessions for Differently Abled Students

Open Up helps students practice self-regulation, relaxation techniques, and expressing feelings safely while incorporating movement and yoga within a classroom setting.
Read More

From Our Community Libraries

Maxwell King, Author of The Good Neighbor: The Life and Work of Fred Rogers, Visits Whitehall Public Library

The book tells the story of a soft-spoken icon who became a household name for tens of millions of children through the simple art of storytelling, song, and companionship.
Read More

Baldwin Borough Public Library Hosts Yoga for All Ages

Free Yoga classes offered for all ages at the library. Find the best option for you below.
Read More

COMING SOON TO BWSD

Oct 16 SCREENAGERS Documentary Screening at Baldwin High School
Oct 18 Color Run at Whitehall Elementary
Oct 21–25 Red Ribbon Week
Oct 22 Fall Festival at McAnnulty Elementary
Oct 30 HMS Highlander Pride Ceremony: 1st Nine Weeks
Nov 1 Act 80: 2 Hour Delay
Nov 4 End of First Nine Weeks
Nov 5 No School
Nov 6 BWSD School Board of Directors Meeting (Combined Agenda and Business)
Nov 7–9 Normal-C Musical at Baldwin High School
Nov 11–15 Anti-Bullying Week

Click Here to Share News for a Future Monthly Issue of Highlander Highlights.

September 2019

District News

Nominate a Highlander for the Distinguished Highlander Hall of Fame Class of 2020

Nominations are now being accepted for the Distinguished Highlander Hall of Fame Class of 2020. Honorees will be recognized at the Distinguished Highlander Hall of Fame Gala on March 21st, 2020.
Read More

MORE FROM BWSD

Parent-to-Parent
with Dr. Lutz

What Will You Dare to Do This Year?

Welcome to the 2019–2020 school year! We undertake a new academic year with gratitude and enthusiasm. The schools in our District are exploring the theme of courage this year. The Baldwin-Whitehall School District is a place that gives students a sure foundation from which they can venture out and accomplish magnificent things. When you are grounded in who you are and equipped by what you know, you can accomplish incredible things. What will you dare to do this year?

Each of our schools will be exploring that theme in its own unique way. I invite you to consider the question as a family. In what ways would you like to grow? What new experiences could you seek out? How can you cheer each other on as you step out boldly? I can't wait to see what we accomplish. Cheers to the adventure ahead.
Read More

Alumni Spotlight

Ashley Bishop Produces Journalism for the Community

Bishop serves as Special Projects and Investigative Producer at WPXI. In that role she digs deep into stories.
Read More

Athletic Spotlight

Yauch Repeats as Section Singles Champ

For the second year in a row, senior Beth Yauch has won the section singles championship in tennis.
Read More

Arts / Music

Students Bring Gift to Tree of Life Synagogue

Students and staff delivered a replica of their art to Tree of Life over the summer. The gift was received by representatives of Dor Hadash, New Light, and Tree of Life congregations.
Read More

MORE IN ARTS

Oh, Say Can You SING!

Raising Highlanders: Tech Tips for Parents

Multitasking During Homework

Are your kids multitasking during homework? Here are six tips to help them focus on one activity at a time.
Read More

MORE FROM TECH TIPS

Common Sense Education Text Campaign for Ages 3-8

Baldwin-Whitehall Education Foundation

BWEF Sponsors a Little Free Library

BWEF has sponsored a Little Free Library for community use inside the commons area at Caste Village Shopping Center. The library was made possible through the generosity of Kathleen M. O'Leary, a lifelong advocate of education and literacy.
Read More

MORE FROM BWEF

BWEF Golf Outing a Great Success

Baldwin High School

Meditations with Morrie

Students in Ms. Schulte's freshmen classes put the teachings of Morrie Schwartz from the book, Tuesdays with Morrie, into practice this Friday.
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MORE FROM BHS

Harrison Middle School

Harrison to Receive a Learning Garden through Grow Pittsburgh

Through the generosity of Grow Pittsburgh and Big Green, Harrison Middle School has been selected to receive a Learning Garden, and the design and planning process is underway.
Read More

MORE FROM HMS

McAnnulty Elementary School

Students Learn Delicious Language Arts Lessons with Scissor Salads

Students in kindergarten room 114 are writing their first names in Language Arts class.
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Paynter Elementary School

Engineering Problem-Solving Skills through STEAM Challenges

Second-grade students have been learning how to work together in groups to complete STEAM challenges! The students work collaboratively to read the challenges and plan a course of action.
Read More

Whitehall Elementary School

Students Making a Difference in the Community One Act at a Time

Students at Whitehall Elementary are sharing compassion and spreading kindness throughout the community! The Compassion for the Community Club, also known as Kids that Care has met during club time at Whitehall Elementary to create special messages of encouragement and kindness.
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MORE FROM WES

Students Get Bus Licenses

From Our Community Libraries

No More Late Fees

The Baldwin Borough Public Library is now fine free!
Read More

Whitehall Library Hosts Book Sale

The Whitehall Library is hosting a huge book sale extravaganza from September 26–30th.
Read More

COMING SOON TO BWSD

Oct 1 Crazy Hair Day
Oct 2 BWSD School Board of Directors Meeting, 7:30–9:00 p.m.
Oct 7 MES & WES PTO Meeting, 6:30 p.m.
Oct 10 BWSD Homecoming Bonfire and Carnival
Oct 11 PES Donuts with Dads, 7:45–8:35 a.m.
Oct 11 BHS Homecoming Football Game, 7:00 p.m.
Oct 12 BHS Homecoming Dance, 7:00 p.m.
Oct 14 No School, Professional Development Day

Click Here to Share News for a Future Monthly Issue of Highlander Highlights.

2018-2019

May/June 2019

May/June 2019

District News

Students at Staff Serve the Community through Second-Annual Day of Caring

On Friday, May 3rd, The Baldwin-Whitehall School District hosted its Second-Annual Day of Caring. Dozens of students and staff donated their time by helping with projects at over 100 sites in the area.
Read More

MORE FROM BWSD

Parent to Parent
With Dr. Lutz

It's Only The Beginning

The end of the school year is a time of culmination. Musical groups who have been practicing for months treat audiences to concerts. The Day of Caring allows our community to come together to give back. The sea of purple and white at Commencement highlights the bright futures our graduates.
Read More

Alumni Spotlight

Jackie Sirc Advocates for Refugees as a Fulbright Scholar

Each year nearly 5,000 students in the United States apply to the distinguished Fulbright Scholarship program. One of those serving as a Fulbright Scholar this year is Baldwin High School alumna Jackie Sirc.
Read More

Athletic Spotlight

O’Malley Twins Win Gold at Baldwin Invitational

Baldwin High School Seniors Bailey and Brendan O’Malley both won gold at the Baldwin Invitational on Friday, May 3rd.
Read More

Arts / Music

Gene Kelly Nominations Are in!

Baldwin High School’s production of Mame garnered audience acclaim and two Gene Kelly Nominations.
Read More

Raising Highlanders: Tech Tips for Parents

Remake Learning Days Show the Future of Education

Remake Learning Days returns for the fourth year to highlight the ways educators are innovating in the classroom.
Read More

MORE FROM TECH TIPS

Baldwin-Whitehall Education Foundation

Mark Your Calendar for the Fourth Annual BWEF Golf Outing

Last year, more than 60 families and local businesses supported the golf outing and we raised nearly $10,000 in support of our educational grants and student scholarship programs.
Read More

Baldwin High School

Baldwin High School Welcomes New Principal

Shaun Tomaszewski has been hired by the Baldwin-Whitehall Board of School Directors to become Baldwin High School's new principal for the 2019–2020 school year. Tomaszewski will fill the role of retiring principal, Dr. Walter Graves.
Read More

MORE FROM BHS

Harrison Middle School

Digital Worksheets Enhance Student Learning

Teachers in the District are finding all kinds of creative and innovative ways to educate through Chromebooks, including with digital worksheets.
Read More

MORE FROM HMS

McAnnulty Elementary School

Students Collaboration Grows through Gardening Club

Through the generosity of WQED and the PBS Ready to Learn Grant, McAnnulty sponsors a Growing Gardening Club Afterschool Program for first-grade students. This program provides an exciting gardening opportunity to enhance student collaboration skills as they develop a sense of responsibility for their environment.
Read More

Paynter Elementary School

Paynter Pals Provides Fun for Special-Needs Students

The staff at Paynter has begun a new after school program that offers physical activity and social interaction to special-needs students at PES.
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MORE FROM PES

School Swap Program Creates Connections

Whitehall Elementary School

Whitehall Students Win the World Series of Math at PNC Park

On Saturday, April 27th, 14 students from Mrs. Pryor and Mrs. Bonacorso’s fifth-grade math classes at Whitehall Elementary had the opportunity to compete in the World Series of Math, held at PNC Park.
Read More

MORE FROM WES

From Our Community Libraries

Fifth Annual Touch-a-Truck Event

A Touch-a Truck event invites local public works departments, organizations, and community truck owners to set–up their vehicles and let kids get behind the wheel, honk the horns, take pictures, and meet the men and women who operate the trucks every day.
Read More

Explore a Universe of Stories in This Summer's Reading Program

The Whitehall Library will host an out-of-this-world summer reading program this year. Prepare to launch into fun with their 2019 summer reading program: A Universe of Stories.
Read More

COMING SOON TO BWSD

May 15 PES Remake Learning Days
May 17 HMS/BHS Spring Jazz Concert
May 21 No School K-11. Full day for seniors: Senior Exit Interviews
May 23 HMS/BHS Strings/Wind Ensemble Concert
May 23 PES PTA Meeting
May 24 PES/WES 5th Grade Step-Up Dance at HMS
May 27 Memorial Day: No School
May 28 BHS Spring Choir Concert
May 29 BHS Senior Awards and Banquet
May 31 BHS Senior Prom
May 31 PES Kindergarten Registration at BHS
June 3 BHS Class of 2019 Commencement Ceremony
June 4 BHS Commencement Rain Date
June 5 Last Day of School

Click Here to Share News for a Future Monthly Issue of Highlander Highlights.

Baldwin-Whitehall School District
4900 Curry Road
Pittsburgh, PA 15236
Phone: 412-884-6300
Fax: 412-885-7802

April 2019

District News

District Honored for Excellence in Communication

The Baldwin-Whitehall School District has again received accolades in a statewide contest to recognize standout communication from The Pennsylvania School Public Relations Association (PenSPRA).
Read More

Parent to Parent
With Dr. Lutz

Announcing The Second Annual Community Day of Caring

The objective of the day is to lend a helping hand to our senior citizen neighbors that are in need of a little extra support as we move into the spring season.
Read More

Alumni Spotlight

Kelsey Hallinen Is Advancing Biophysics Research

Hallinen has just completed her Ph.D. in Biophysics from the University of Michigan. Hallinen’s research focuses on bacterial communities and their organizations and structure over time.
Read More

Athletic Spotlight

Fourth Grader Michael Quallich Participated in Golf Tournament at Augusta National

Michael Quallich, a fourth-grader at Whitehall Elementary, competed at the PGA's Drive, Chip and Putt tournament at Augusta National.
Read More

Arts / Music

District Named One of The Best in the Country for Music Education

The Baldwin-Whitehall School District has been selected as one of the 2019 Best Communities for Music Education Districts by the NAMM Foundation.
Read More

MORE IN ARTS

Raising Highlanders: Tech Tips for Parents

Parents' Ultimate Guide to Parental Controls

Our friends at Common Sense Media have everything you need to know about the wide array of parental control solutions, from OS settings to monitoring apps to network hardware.
Read More

MORE FROM TECH TIPS

Summer Camps

Baldwin-Whitehall Education Foundation

Spring Cleaning Sale Raised $3,000!

The Baldwin-Whitehall Educational Foundation is thrilled to report that the Spring Cleaning at Definitely You sale raised $3,000 for the Baldwin-Whitehall Educational Foundation’s scholarship fund.
Read More

MORE FROM BWEF

BWEF Now Accepting Scholarship Applications

Baldwin High School

Job Shadowing Gives Students a Window into Their Future

The Baldwin-Whitehall School District is committed to preparing students for a successful future. One of the ways Baldwin High School prepares seniors for their next steps after high school is through the course Careers and Society.
Read More

MORE FROM BHS

Harrison Middle School

Principal's 200 Club

Harrison Middle School's Positive Behavior Intervention and Supports (PBIS) program has taken on another new initiative this year!
Read More

MORE FROM HMS

McAnnulty Elementary School

Pajama Night at McAnnulty Elementary School

Students and families were asked to wear their pajamas and enjoy bedtime stories read by mystery readers, visit the book fair, and eat cookies and milk.
Read More

MORE FROM MES

Fourth Annual Early Childhood Extravaganza Brings Fun and Resources

Paynter Elementary School

Students Explore Areas of Interest through Genius Hour

This year, students at Paynter Elementary are engaging in a new initiative called Genius Hour. Genius Hour is a movement that allows students to explore their own passions and encourages creativity in the classroom.
Read More

Whitehall Elementary School

Students Create Animation to Inform Classmates about PSSAs

Students at Whitehall Elementary School have created an animation to inform their classmates about what they can expect with PSSA testing.
Read More

MORE FROM WES

From Our Community Libraries

Teen Volunteer Program Is Back at Baldwin Library!

Take advantage of a great opportunity to volunteer at the library during the summer of 2019!
Read More

Whitehall Library Celebrates Pittsburgh’s Most Famous Neighbor!

Please join the Whitehall Library as they kick off their second-annual community read with The Good Neighbor: The Life and Work of Fred Rogers by Maxwell King, president and CEO of the Pittsburgh Foundation.
Read More

COMING SOON TO BWSD

Apr 18 Professional Development Day
Apr 18–22 No School, Spring Break
Apr 21 Flexible Prof. Learning Day (DSAP) 7 Hours
Apr 26 BHS Junior Prom
May 1 BWSD School Board of Directors Meeting (Agenda)
May 3 Act 80: Early dismissal, K–11 Students
May 3 BWSD Day of Caring
May 6–10 Teacher Appreciation Week
May 11 Special Olympics Summer Games at BHS

Click Here to Share News for a Future Monthly Issue of Highlander Highlights.

Baldwin-Whitehall School District
4900 Curry Road
Pittsburgh, PA 15236
Phone: 412-884-6300
Fax: 412-885-7802

March 2019

Highlander Highlights - Baldwin-Whitehall School District

March 2019

District News

Baldwin-Whitehall School District Receives Amazon Future Engineer Grant

Baldwin High School was selected as one of 1,000 high schools nationwide to receive a grant from Amazon to fund computer-science classes for students.
Read More

MORE FROM BWSD

Parent to Parent
With Dr. Lutz

Where Is Your Cell Phone Right Now?

The data from multiple studies proves that we all struggle with self-control when it comes to how we use our smartphones. Instead, we feel obligated to always be connected, afraid that we'll miss the latest text or comment.
Read More

Alumni Spotlight

Sterling Jenkins Blends a Passion for Writing with the Power of Perseverance

Jenkins earned his B.A. in English from Penn State last year and is now pursuing a Master's degree in Leadership at Duquesne University.
Read More

Athletic Spotlight

Baldwin High School Junior Wins Back-to-Back Gold in WPIAL Gymnastics

Alaina Wodarek, a junior at Baldwin High School, has won gold for the second year at the WPIAL championships in gymnastics.
Read More

Arts / Music

All the World’s a Stage

Seven Harrison Middle School students participated in the 2019 Shakespeare Scenes and Monologue Contest with Pittsburgh Public Theater.
Read More

MORE IN ARTS

Baldwin High School Presents Mame!

Raising Highlanders: Tech Tips for Parents

Viral Challenges

From the Tide Pod Challenge to the Mannequin Challenge, viral challenges hit the national and local news every year as well as find their way onto the screens of our children.
Read More

Baldwin-Whitehall Education Foundation

Spring Sale at Definitely You Benefits BWEF

For the second year in a row, BWEF is partnering with Definitely You in Brentwood Towne Square for a Spring Cleaning clearance event!
Read More

MORE FROM BWEF

Baldwin High School

Designer Bag Bingo

Baldwin Girls’ Basketball will host Designer Bag Bingo on Sunday, March 31st at the Harrison Middle School Cafeteria. Doors will open at 10:30. Tickets cost $30 and include 15 games of bingo and lunch. Additional game sheets can be purchased at the door.
Read More

MORE FROM BHS

Harrison Middle School

Debbie Reynolds Receives 2019 Carnegie Science Award

As the STEM specialist educator at J.E. Harrison Middle School, Debbie Reynolds works with her fellow teachers to integrate STEM into every classroom.
Read More

MORE FROM HMS

McAnnulty Elementary School

McAnnulty Masterminds Shape it Up

Through the generosity of WQED and the PBS Ready to Learn Grant, McAnnulty is hosting spring sessions of the Masterminds afterschool program for first-grade students.
Read More

MORE FROM MES

Paynter Elementary School

LEGO Table Newest Addition to Library Media Center

The Lego Table seats up to 25 students and can be signed out by teachers to use at their discretion.
Read More

MORE FROM PES

Whitehall Elementary School

Whitehall's Works of HeART

McAnnulty and Whitehall Elementary held another successful art fair and inspirations contest, with participation from every grade level K–5!
Read More

MORE FROM WES

From Our Community Libraries

Back by Popular Demand: Whitehall Public Library Edible Book Festival

Join the Whitehall Library for a deliciously literary time where food for thought becomes thoughtful food!
Read More

Come See the New Baldwin Library Open House

Join the Baldwin Public Library for a first-hand look at the brand new library!
Read More

COMING SOON TO BWSD

Mar 21 Purim
Mar 21 PES PTA Meeting
Mar 29 End of Third Nine Weeks
Mar 29 Early Dismissal for Students K–11: Clerical Day (full day for BHS seniors)
Apr 1 MES/WES PTO Meeting, MES Cafeteria
Apr 3 Isra & Mi'raj
Apr 3 BWSD Board of Directors Meeting
Apr 4 K-8 Family STEAM Night at HMS
Apr 5 Report Cards Issued
Apr 7 BHS Presents Mame: Spring Musical Senior Citizen Show
Apr 8 BHS PTSA Meeting
Apr 9–11 Grades 3–5 PSSA Testing, ELA
Apr 11–13 BHS Presents Mame: Spring Musical

Click Here to Share News for a Future Monthly Issue of Highlander Highlights.

Baldwin-Whitehall School District
4900 Curry Road
Pittsburgh, PA 15236
Phone: 412-884-6300
Fax: 412-885-7802

February 2019

District News

District Students Participate in PAsmart Initiative with Governor Wolf and Lieutenant Governor John Fetterman

Students of the Baldwin-Whitehall School District were on hand last week as Governor Tom Wolf announced nearly $10 million in PAsmart advancing grants to enhance science and technology education in schools statewide.
Read More

MORE FROM BWSD

Parent to Parent
With Dr. Lutz

Training All Stars

Last weekend, the NBA held its annual All-Star Game, a showcase for the most talented basketball players in the world to show off their skills. While the game itself is basically a 2-hour highlight reel of playground dunks (and zero defense), one part of All-Star Weekend rises above the rest for me: the 3-Point Shootout.
Read More

Alumni Spotlight

Meghan Schiller Is Making News

The Baldwin High School alumna serves as a General Assignment Reporter and Fill-in Anchor for KDKA TV News.
Read More

Competitive Cheerleading Places Third in Nation

The Baldwin competitive cheerleading mat team placed third in the nation at Disney over the weekend, the highest-ever finish for any Baldwin cheer team.
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Arts / Music

Baldwin High School Students Honored with Scholastic Art and Writing Awards

BHS students garnered 5 Gold Key awards, 2 Silver Key awards, and 7 honorable mentions in this year's awards.
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MORE IN ARTS

Raising Highlanders: Tech Tips for Parents

Dating in a Digital World-What Parents Need to Know

While dating apps have become very popular over the past decade for adults, teens are also using apps to make connections with individuals beyond the walls of their schools. Our friends at Common Sense Media provide a brief overview of some of the popular apps that teens might be using.
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Baldwin-Whitehall Education Foundation

Spring Sale at Definitely You Benefits BWEF

For the second year in a row, BWEF is partnering with Definitely You in Brentwood Towne Square for a Spring Cleaning clearance event!
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Know a Distinguished Highlander?

Baldwin High School

Angela Miller Performs at Regional Poetry Out Loud Competition

Baldwin High School student Angela Miller was selected to attend from among 26 BHS students who performed at Baldwin Bean in December.
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MORE FROM BHS

Harrison Middle School

The Little Mermaid Coming This Spring

Mark your calendar for Harrison Middle School's spring musical.
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MORE FROM HMS

McAnnulty Elementary School

Students Celebrate 100 Days of School

On Tuesday, February 5th, McAnnulty celebrated the 100th day of School!
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MORE FROM MES

Paynter Elementary School

Students Think Outside The Box and Engage with Shapes

Erin Cantwell and her class, room 109, created a "Think Outside The Box Thursday" interactive bulletin board.
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Highlander Highlights

Ryan Rydzewski, Coauthor of When You Wonder You’re Learning, Addresses Staff

Changing Your Perspective Can Change Someone Else’s Life

Constance Mulbah Named One of Pittsburgh's 40 under 40

Friends, Fun, and Friday Night Lights

Virtual Recital Strikes a Chord with Students

District Adopts PikMyKid App to Streamline Dismissal Process

BWEF "Mini" Golf Outing = Success!

Students Build Life and Career Skills through ESL Learn & Earn Program

Meet Your BMS Counselors

Full STEAM ahead in the Library

McAnnulty Elementary School is Out of This World

Exceptional Education at WES

Being Grateful

​Love Your Library Celebration Day Planned for Whitehall Library

​Fall Programs at Baldwin Borough Public Library Have Something for Everyone

District Wins PensPRA Awards for Excellence in Communication

Learning to Appreciate the Downtime

Robert Scherrer is Advancing Education

BHS Hockey Team Wins State Championship

A Fairy Tale Production at Baldwin High School

Summer Reading Recommendations from Library Media Specialist Brigetta Del Re

2021 BWEF Scholarship Recipients Announced

BHS Receives No Place for Hate Designation

Adaptive Technology Helps Student Express His Creativity

Turning Trash to Treasure: Students Celebrate Earth Day with Recycled Games

PTO Sponsors Book Distribution for Students

Being Grateful

​Participate in the 2021 Summer Reading Program

​Join the Whitehall Public Library on a Scavenger Hunt!

Baldwin–Whitehall School District Names New School After Current Superintendent Lutz

Staying Focused in the Home Stretch

Hillary Maglin Explores the World through Words

Pacella Unites Team on and off the Field

District Named One of The Best in the Country for Music Education

BW Joins DonorsChoose District Partnership Program

BWEF Celebrates Our Educators with Prizes and Experiences Every Day in May

Vigil Honors Victims of Identity-Based Violence

Mrs. Fusco Named Most Valuable Principal by The Penguins Foundation

Students Celebrate McAnnulty’s Own Epilepsy Warrior Gianna

Student Writes Whitehall School Song

Being Grateful

​Create a Wire Sculpture through the Guidance of Local Artist

​The Whitehall Library is Now Open for Express Service

Dr. Lutz Sworn in for Third Term as Superintendent

How to Create Your Own Luck

Jeff Peretin: Building Productivity and Community through Relationships

Stokes Sets School Swim Record at WPIAL Championship

Mark Your Calendars for Legally Blonde, Jr.

When You Wonder, You're Learning

Spring Cleaning at Definitely You

Freezin for A Reason: Students Raise Over $7,000 for Special Olympics

From There to Here, from Here to There, Reading Fun Is Everywhere!

Students Explore the Seasons

Kindness Week Showcases Student Generosity

Being Grateful

​The Baldwin Borough Public Library Celebrates Two-Year Anniversary with Virtual Cocktail Party

Dr. Janeen Peretin Recognized as Technology Administrator of the Year

An Important Reminder About the “Domino Effect” of Responsibility

Jeff Eiben Helps Others Implement Technology Success

Nowicki Helps Ice Hockey Team Remain Undefeated

Baldwin Idol Concert Supports Charity

A Family's Guide to TikTok

Spring Cleaning at Definitely You

A Game Winning Drive

Celebrating Black History Month at HEC with Freedom Quilts

Did Anyone Happen to See a Snowman Anywhere?

ActivPanel Boards Provide Teachers New Tools for Instruction

Being Grateful

​Database Tool for Those Preparing for the GED, SAT, GRE, TOEFL, U.S. Citizenship, and More

Saying Thanks: January is School Director Recognition Month

How Can We Explain Difficult Subjects to Our Children?

BHS Alumna Susan Orsega to Be Appointed Acting Surgeon General

To Our Winter Athletes

Joe Joyce to Direct Once Upon a Mattress as This Year’s Spring Musical

Explaining the News to Our Kids

BWEF Makes Teachers’ Day a Little Sweeter

Mariah Jones Reaches for the Stars: Scholarship Program Enables Student to Attend

Students Write Letters of Appreciation to Frontline Healthcare and Essential Workers

Creativity Continues through Virtual Learning

Love Your Library Celebration Day Planned for Whitehall Library

Fall Programs at Baldwin Borough Public Library Have Something for Everyone

Participate in the 2021 Summer Reading Program

Join the Whitehall Public Library on a Scavenger Hunt!

Create a Wire Sculpture through the Guidance of Local Artist

The Whitehall Library is Now Open for Express Service

The Baldwin Borough Public Library Celebrates Two-Year Anniversary with Virtual Cocktail Party

Database Tool for Those Preparing for the GED, SAT, GRE, TOEFL, U.S. Citizenship, and More

Baldwin Borough Library Hosts Winter Reading Club

Whitehall Library Continues to Serve Patrons

Whitehall Library Still Serving Patrons

Whitehall Public Library Hosts Halloween Storywalk with Craft and Treat Bag