Plum Borough School District PLUM PLUM BOROUGH SCHOOL DISTRICT NEWS NEWS
Plum Borough School District has been selected as one of ten school entities in Pennsylvania to receive a $ 30,000 award through the Shapiro Administration’ s Disability Inclusive Curriculum Pilot Program. The grant, announced by the Pennsylvania Department of Education, is designed to help K-12 students learn about the political, economic, and social contributions of individuals with disabilities. Plum Borough joins a diverse group of recipients from across the Commonwealth in this second, round of funding, bringing the Shapiro Administration’ s total investment in the initiative to $ 600,000 across 20 Pennsylvania school entities since its launch during the 2023-24 school year.
The three-year grant will support Plum Borough in integrating disability-focused lessons across subjects, reducing stigma, and making disability education a meaningful part of district-wide culture. In many ways,
Dr. Boyers Named Deputy Superintendent
The Plum Borough School District is pleased to announce the appointment of Dr. Ashley Boyers as Deputy Superintendent. Dr. Boyers joined the district in 2018 as Principal of O’ Block Junior High School before transitioning to Assistant Superintendent in 2023, where he has played a key role in advancing district initiatives and supporting student achievement.
“ Dr. Boyers has consistently exhibited a student-centered approach, strategic leadership, and a steadfast dedication to continuous improvement,” said Superintendent Dr. Rick A. Walsh.“ His expertise and forward-thinking orientation render him exceptionally well-qualified to assume the responsibilities of Deputy Superintendent.”
Dr. Boyers reflected,“ I am honored to serve in this role, and to continue working alongside our dedicated students, staff, families, and community. Together, we will build on our strengths to create meaningful opportunities for all learners.” The district is grateful for the continued leadership and positive impact Dr. Boyers carries into his new role.
Dr. Sakolsky Appointed O’ Block Elementary Principal
Plum Borough School District is pleased to welcome Cory Sakolsky as the new principal of O’ Block Elementary School. Dr. Sakolsky brings a wealth of experience in education and student support to the role, having most recently served as assistant principal at Shaler Area Elementary School. Prior to that, he served as dean of students at Highlands Middle School and as a teacher in Butler Area School District. He holds a doctorate in educational leadership from Youngstown State University, along with bachelor’ s and master’ s degrees from California University of Pennsylvania( now part of Penn West University). Selected from a field of 19 applicants, Dr. Sakolsky was recognized for his data-driven approach and commitment to student success.
PLUM BOROUGH SCHOOL DISTRICT RECEIVES STATE GRANT FOR DISABILITY INCLUSIVE CURRICULUM
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Plum Borough School District was a natural choice for this recognition. The district has long been a leader in creating opportunities for and celebrating the contributions of all students. This commitment was powerfully demonstrated with a designation as a Special Olympics ® Unified Champion Schools ® National Banner School— one of the most prestigious honors a school district can receive for dedication to inclusion and belonging.
The program, established by state law in 2022, reflects Governor Shapiro’ s strong priority in education— an effort underscored by a proposed $ 50 million boost to Special Education funding in his 2026-27 budget. For Plum Borough students, this grant is not a starting point, but a continuation of a community that has always believed every individual deserves to feel seen, valued, and empowered.