A MESSAGE FROM THE SCHOOL BOARD PRESIDENT
Dear Community Members,
So many wonderful things happen in our school district every day, and I’d like
to focus on two of those areas in this message – school safety and our students’
talents in the arts.
Our district has come a long way in the last few years in the area of safety. Our
School Board has worked along with our district administration to do everything
we can to enhance safety and security. Students must feel that their schools are
safe places in order to learn at the highest levels. Staff must feel that schools are
safe in order to teach at the highest levels.
One of our best decisions was appointing Joe Kozarian as our school safety and
security coordinator. Under his leadership, we have also developed a school
district police force and now have an officer in every school.
Hiring Mr. Kozarian has enabled our district to form an even closer relationship
with all of the local chiefs of police and their officers. We are working closer than
ever with our six municipal police departments, and we are very happy with the
relationships that we are continuing to build.
I have also taken the time to tour our schools, and I am very impressed with
the many improvements in security that have occurred during the past several
months. This includes implementing the Ruvna and Raptor systems, and the many
safety drills that have been conducted.
On a different topic, I must say that our school district and its students
continuously amaze me. I am always impressed by the academic talents that our
students demonstrate. But I am also equally awestruck by their talents in the arts.
In December, our Board had the opportunity to hear a song, “Mi Shebeirach” by
Debbie Friedman, performed by the Fox Chapel Area High School Ambassador
Orchestra and the combined choirs. This particular rendition was arranged by
Fox Chapel Area High School junior Noah Hertzman. The song, meant to be one
of healing, was performed in honor of the victims of the Tree of Life tragedy in
Pittsburgh in October. I can honestly say that this performance was one of the most
moving and beautiful things I’ve ever witnessed.
Our Board has also had the privilege of hearing some of our other musical groups
at our meetings this school year, including a middle school violin ensemble and
elementary percussionists and a choir.
And, I would be remiss if I didn’t mention the students’ artwork that I see when
I visit our schools. The hallways are covered with magnificent drawings and
paintings, and the display cases are filled with ceramic pieces and other incredible
artwork – all created by our students!
My main point is that, while our district’s academic scores continue to rank
among the highest in the state and region, so much learning occurs in the arts as
well. I know I can speak for our entire board when I say that it is essential that our
district educates the whole child in a safe environment. None of this well-rounded
education would be possible without the direction and relationship our School
Board has with our extraordinary staff who work with our talented and dedicated
students and parents. That’s how we continue our district’s tradition of excellence in
all areas.
…While our district’s
academic scores
continue to rank
among the highest in
the state and region, so
much learning occurs
in the arts as well.
Sincerely,
Terry Wirginis
School Board President
FOX CHAPEL AREA
❘
SPRING 2019
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