GET TO KNOW:
eters Township
PETERS TOWNSHIP SCHOOL DISTRICT NEWS
GET TO KNOW:
Jennifer Carfano
One of the things that makes our schools so special is the incredible people who show up every day to support our students. In this issue, we’ re excited to help you Get to Know Bower Hill Principal Mrs. Jennifer Carfano. Mrs. Carfano joined the District in 2015 as a Reading Specialist, became an assistant principal in 2018, and was promoted to the position of principal in November of 2025. Take a few minutes and get to know Mrs. Carfano!
What inspired you to become a teacher? And then a principal?
I was first inspired to become a teacher because of my interest in working with children. Teaching was deeply rewarding, especially watching students learn, achieve, and gain confidence. That passion later grew into a desire to become a principal, allowing me to continue working with students while also supporting teachers and helping create a positive learning environment.
If you were not a teacher, what other job would you have?
If I were not a principal I would be interested in working as a systems analyst, either in education or another field. I enjoy examining how systems function, identifying areas for improvement, and helping people work more efficiently through better processes and tools.
What is your favorite thing to do outside the classroom?
Outside of school, I love spending time with family and friends, listening to live music, doing things outside, and baking. My family’ s favorites are my cherry cobbler and zucchini bread!
What has been one of your favorite events at school?
One of my favorite events each year as a principal is attending high school graduation. Watching former students walking across the stage, even years later, is incredibly rewarding and meaningful. It is a truly special moment to experience.
What do you wish every student would know after their time at Bower Hill? About school, about themselves, about anything!
My wish is that every student finishes their time at Bower Hill Elementary believing in themselves, carrying both a love of learning and the resilience to embrace the opportunities ahead.
76 PETERS TOWNSHIP
STUDENT HIGHLIGHTS
PLAY IT FORWARD AT PTMS
In December, our 8th grade Student Council members volunteered at Play It Forward at the David L. Lawrence Convention Center. This holiday toy drive collects and distributes toys for families in need throughout the Pittsburgh area. Students helped organize donations where families can“ shop” for free, making the holidays brighter for children across the community. Student Council members donated toys, helped shop for children, and boxed up items for families in need.
PHYSICS PHUN PHEST
During the week leading to Winter Break, High School Physics students took part in the“ Phabulous Physics Phun Phest”! The week began with Mrs. Hlebinsky’ s classes and their homemade launchers, followed by daily events including can rolling, tower building and more. The Washington City Mission was the real winner of the can rolling event with almost 1,400 cans of food being donated for future meals.
PTMS students working at the Play It Forward Drive.
Students get ready to launch during the Physics Phun Phest.
PLEASANT VALLEY MEALS ON WHEELS VISIT Members of Pleasant Valley’ s Best Buddies packed 12 boxes of candy from their Halloween donations and traveled to Meals on Wheels to deliver sweet treats, Thanksgiving placemats, decorated bags, and festive centerpieces to share with community members who receive meals from the organization. Students received a tour of the kitchen and learned about how food is prepared, packaged, and delivered. The students also made a second delivery to The Washington City Mission to deliver six more boxes of candy to serve as desserts for holiday meals.
ONLINE SAFETY PRESENTATION
The District welcomed FBI analysts to talk with parents in December about the dangers of online activities for children. The more we know, the better conversations with our children can be about staying safe and using their devices responsibly. Throughout the school year, the District hosts safety related meetings for parents and community members.