ADMINISTRATION BUILDING 830 OLD CLAIRTON ROAD JEFFERSON HILLS, PA 15025 PHONE 412.655.8450 FAX 412.655.9544 www. wjhsd. net
A MESSAGE FROM
Dr. Janet Sardon
WJHSD Superintendent
Dr. William Henderson, III
WJHSD Assistant Superintendent
Dear West Jefferson Hills Community, est Jefferson Hills
WEST JEFFERSON HILLS SCHOOL DISTRICT NEWS
As we move through February 2026, we would like to take a moment to reflect on what has been a very busy and rewarding time for the West Jefferson Hills School District. Our continued focus on student achievement, district progress, and a caring school culture is evident in the success of our students— academically, athletically, and through the arts.
At the high school level, Thomas Jefferson High School continues to distinguish itself as one of the top schools in the region and the Commonwealth. The district is ranked 30th out of 606 Pennsylvania school districts by SchoolDigger, 16th by the Pittsburgh Business Times, and 13th in the Pittsburgh Metro Area by U. S. News & World Report. Thomas Jefferson High School is also recognized as one of the top three schools in the Pittsburgh area for its robust athletics program, offering 21 varsity sports. Academically, the school earned a five-star SchoolDigger rating, celebrated 38 AP Scholars, and achieved an impressive benchmark with 92 % of 11th-grade students scoring proficient or advanced on the Keystone Literature Exam.
Our winter athletics program continues to be a source of pride for the entire community. All six varsity winter sports teams captured their respective section championships, including a WPIAL team gymnastic title. These teams now look forward to making competitive runs in both the WPIAL and PIAA playoff tournaments. Their success reflects not only talent and preparation, but also teamwork, sportsmanship, and strong leadership from coaches and staff.
Student achievement across the district remains strong at every level. Pleasant Hills Middle School is ranked 54th out of 873 middle schools statewide and continues to demonstrate high proficiency
rates in English Language Arts. Jefferson Hills Intermediate School, Gill Hall Elementary School, and McClellan Elementary School also show consistent academic performance, with test scores exceeding state averages. The district continues to have strong graduation and promotion rates, and low dropout rates. These outcomes are supported by effective resource allocation and favorable studentteacher ratios, particularly in our elementary schools.
In addition to academics and athletics, our arts programs continue to thrive. The Thomas Jefferson High School Theatre Program will be performing 9 to 5: The Musical. Performances will be held during the week of March 19 through March 22. We thank you for attending and for the ongoing support our community gives to these talented students as they showcase their creativity, dedication, and hard work.
Finally, the district and administration continue to work collaboratively with HHSDR as we enter the early preliminary design planning phases for a new middle school. This important initiative reflects our commitment to long-term planning and providing safe, modern learning environments that meet the future needs of our students and community.
Thank you for your continued partnership and support. Together, we remain committed to fostering a caring school community where every student is encouraged to achieve, grow, and belong.
Sincerely,
Dr. Janet Sardon Superintendent West Jefferson Hills SD
Dr. William Henderson, III Assistant Superintendent West Jefferson Hills SD
WJHSD Strengthens Community Partnerships
On February 24, the WJHSD hosted first responders and public officials from the WJH communities and Allegheny County for its annual collaboration meeting. Discussions and feedback focused on ensuring the continued safety and security of all WJH students, faculty, staff, and families. The district thanks all partners for their ongoing support and collaboration.
32 WEST JEFFERSON HILLS