orwin
NORWIN SCHOOL DISTRICT NEWS
Norwin PTAs Honor Outstanding Educators of 2024-2025
Eight Teachers Recognized for Their Dedication and Impact
Continuing its annual teacher recognition program, the Norwin Council of PTAs has announced the eight Outstanding Educator honorees for the 2024-2025 school year:
• Mrs. Rachel Balog, Sunset Valley Elementary
• Ms. Sara Colosimo, Hahntown Elementary
• Ms. Angela Hufangel, Norwin High School
• Ms. Lauren Karcher, Sheridan Terrace Elementary
• Ms. Denise Ebbitt, Hillcrest Intermediate
• Ms. Jennifer Williams, Stewartsville Elementary
• Ms. Jessica Pollock, Norwin Middle School
Named after one of the PTA’ s founders, The Phoebe Apperson Hearst Outstanding Educator Award recognizes staff members who have made significant contributions to the education and enrichment of our students and school community. The honorees are chosen by nominations from their peers, students and parents.
These educators will be honored at the annual Founders’ Day Dinner, scheduled for Thursday, April 10, 2025 at Stratigos Banquet Centre. The dinner celebrates PTA heritage, and has been used by Norwin to celebrate the Outstanding Educators each year.
The Norwin PTAs appreciates the relationships they have built over the years with teachers.
Dr. Natalie McCracken, Superintendent, congratulated the teachers and thanked the Norwin Council of PTAs for its dedication and continued support of Norwin students and teachers.
“ These dedicated educators have demonstrated an unwavering commitment to enriching the lives of our students,” said Dr. McCracken.“ Their hard work, passion, and impact on the school community make them truly deserving of this distinguished honor.”
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Empowering the Next Generation: Norwin’ s CSAY Leads by Example
Student mentors inspire Hillcrest Intermediate with a message of resilience, leadership, and a drug-free future.
At Norwin High School, a dedicated group of students known as CSAY( Council on Substance Abuse and Youth) is making a meaningful impact in the Norwin community. Each year, these students undergo specialized training at a summit held at Westmoreland County Community College. This program equips them with the knowledge and skills to educate others, promote recovery, and drive social change— all with the goal of preventing substance abuse among youth and adults.
Research shows that positive role models can significantly influence young people, inspiring them to make healthier choices and set higher goals. That’ s why Norwin’ s CSAY students take their mission beyond the classroom, including an annual visit to Hillcrest Intermediate School to mentor and connect with younger students.
During their visits, CSAY members introduce themselves, share their experiences, and highlight the clubs and activities they are involved in— demonstrating the many benefits of a drug-free lifestyle. Their presence is something Hillcrest students eagerly anticipate. As the Hillcrest teachers shared,“ The CSAY program has been instrumental for our students at Hillcrest Intermediate. The student body at Hillcrest looks forward to the CSAY students coming up and interacting with them as peer mentors. CSAY students start each lesson by introducing themselves, talking about the clubs and activities that they are involved in and the importance of living a drug-free life.”
By engaging with students multiple times throughout the school year, CSAY members build strong, mentor-like relationships that encourage younger students to set goals for their future. Their message is clear: choosing a drug-free life leads to greater opportunities, success, and personal fulfillment. Through education and positive peer influence, CSAY continues to make a lasting impact, inspiring the next generation to make choices that will lead them to brighter, healthier futures.