orwin
NORWIN SCHOOL DISTRICT NEWS
Norwin PTAs Celebrate Outstanding Educators of 2025-2026
Eight Teachers Recognized for Their Commitment and Influence
As part of its long-standing tradition of honoring excellence in education, the Norwin Council of PTAs has revealed the eight recipients of the 2025-2026 Phoebe Apperson Hearst Outstanding Educator Award:
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Joseph Agnew Norwin High School
Rebecca Rutkowski Norwin Middle School
Jennifer Herrington Hillcrest Intermediate
Dana Helphenstine Hahntown Elementary
Lynn Schmook Sheridan Terrace Elementary
Christal Stagon Stewartsville Elementary
Marina Alfera Sunset Valley Elementary
The Outstanding Educator Award, named for one of the PTA’ s founding members, honors staff who have made remarkable contributions to the growth and development of students and the broader school community. Recipients are selected through nominations from colleagues, students, and families.
The educators will be recognized at the annual Founders’ Day Dinner on Thursday, April 9, 2026, at Stratigos Banquet Centre. This event celebrates the rich heritage of the PTA and has become a cherished occasion to spotlight the district’ s Outstanding Educators each year.
The Norwin PTAs value the strong connections they have cultivated with teachers over the years, acknowledging the profound influence these educators have on students’ learning and growth.
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 educators go above and beyond every day, inspiring students and strengthening our school community,” said Dr. McCracken.“ Their dedication, creativity, and care leave a lasting mark, and we are proud to honor their contributions.”
Turning Stories Into Service: Students Make an Impact
Mrs. Byrne’ s Middle School ELA students recently explored A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens, delving into the timeless story’ s themes of generosity, kindness, and social responsibility. Inspired by Dickens, who was himself a devoted philanthropist, the students were challenged to translate the lessons of the book into real-world action by designing their own charitable projects.
One student team— Ainsley Brentzel, Noraa Brentzel, Claire Choby, and Adelyn Weyandt— launched a drive to support local homeless shelters. Thanks to their hard
work and the generosity of the school community, the drive collected more than 450 items. Catholic Charities of Pittsburgh picked up the donations to distribute to those in need.
The students are now eagerly anticipating a tour of Catholic Charities’ facilities, where they will see firsthand the impact of their efforts and gain insight into other ways they can continue to give back to their community. Through this project, Mrs. Byrne’ s students have not only studied literature— they have lived it, embracing the spirit of generosity that Dickens hoped to inspire.
Hillcrest Students Spread Love and Kindness with Valentines for Grace
At Hillcrest Intermediate School, Valentine’ s Day is celebrated in a uniquely meaningful way. Each year, students participate in Valentines for Grace, an event honoring the life of Grace Ekis, a Norwin student who passed away on Valentine’ s Day in 2007. Proceeds from the event benefit the Reflections of Grace Foundation, keeping Grace’ s memory alive through acts of kindness and generosity.
Students can purchase valentines for classmates, friends, teachers, and staff. Once collected, student council representatives sort and deliver the valentines throughout the school, ensuring everyone feels included. Daily“ Be a Friend and Send” winners are randomly selected to recognize students spreading extra kindness.
Creativity is also encouraged, as students have the chance to design valentines for the annual contest. This year, nearly 100 students submitted designs, and five were chosen to be printed and sold during the event. The results were impressive: almost 8,000 valentines were purchased and delivered, helping to raise a remarkable $ 3,700.
Thanks to the generosity and spirit of the Hillcrest community, this year’ s Valentines for Grace was a success— proving that sharing kindness truly is the best way to celebrate the holiday.