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 , West Jefferson Hills School
District Superintendent est Jefferson Hills
WEST JEFFERSON HILLS SCHOOL DISTRICT NEWS
The 2023-24 school year has quickly come to a close . This year , we ’ ve had seven employees retire from the WJHSD that have given their time and expertise . We would like to thank and congratulate the following retirees for their years of service to the West Jefferson Hills School District and wish them a lifetime of health and happiness .
• Mrs . Dena Davis - 33 years
• Mr . Patrick Fiorill - 18 years
• Mrs . Linda Gaito - 26 years
• Mrs , Sue Gaitenella -28 years
• Mrs . Kathy Hannon - 28 years
• Mrs . Wendy Matta - 22 years
• Mr . Jeff Nelson - 3 years
The year has been filled with many significant accomplishments in all three areas of academics , arts and athletics . We continue to be the fastest growing district in Allegheny County and have enrolled more than 130 new students since the start of school last August . Academically , we are excelling within our region , with movement in the Pittsburgh Business Times rankings up by four spots , moving us into the Top 20 districts in our region . Along with the overall academic achievements , we continue to see growth across the district in reading and mathematics .
We have been privileged to see our arts programs continue to flourish , within our music department , specifically regarding instrumental and vocal music , and within our theater department . This year , the TJ band has performed in Florida , our vocal program is being featured this summer at a Foreigner concert , and the concerts throughout the district , elementary , middle and high school never disappoint . Watching the progress from the beginning of the year to the end is an incredible experience . At every grade level students continue to grow under the guidance and direction of our staff , administration , teacher and sponsors .
Our athletic teams in all three seasons have excelled and made numerous WPIAL and PIAA Tournaments . The value of sports programs and the development of teamwork is an essential skill that all students need as they move forward and graduate from the district . We are thankful for those coaches and mentors that give our students these opportunities .
As a graduate of the district , we are at a time of ending and new beginnings as we watch the demolition of the former Thomas Jefferson High School . The building held many memories for graduates and alumni , many of whom have stopped by the site , taken photos and video of the process , and have reminisced
about the past . Although it is sad to see the demolition , it has brought memories and people talking about the past , which is always inspiring , as our past is what has led us to the bright future . The former site will be converted to a parking lot for TJ Stadium , helping solve an on-going issue with parking at that facility . The anticipated completion of the parking lot will be this Fall .
The district continues working on the five-year plan and has begun the process of reviewing the feasibility study to develop a sound capital project plan . This plan will look at all of the facilities in the district , the continued growth in enrollment and the financial situation to create a 5-10-year plan to make changes , repairs and / or additions within the district . This work will continue into the Fall / Winter of 2024-25 .
When school begins again in August , the iPad initiative is being expanded to middle school . Students in Grades 7 and 8 will receive new iPad devices for use within the classroom . More information regarding distribution will come later this summer . Within the area of technology , we have added a Director of Technology and Innovation , Dr . Jennifer Kassimer , who will lead our technology department to incorporate technology into our curriculum in innovative ways to prepare students , teachers and staff for the future . We are extremely excited to have her in this new role .
As I close out my second year as Superintendent , I want to thank Dr . Patterson for his time , dedication and commitment to the West Jefferson Hills School District . Although he will be leaving us at the end of this year , he has left an indelible mark on the district in many areas . For myself as Superintendent , he has been a friend , colleague , and an assistant that made my transition into the district easy . We will miss his strong commitment to students and education .
With that being said , I am excited to announce the arrival of Dr . William Henderson III to the role of Assistant Superintendent . His experience in education , passion for children , and love of learning will continue to allow us to grow , achieve and reach our fullest potential as a school district . Over the next several months , please make sure to welcome him to our team and family .
I look forward to seeing everyone over the next few months at community days and other summer events . As a reminder , the start of the 2024-25 school year for students is Monday , August 26 , 2024 . Class schedules , bus schedules , and other important information will be available through the Skyward portal beginning in mid-August . Have a safe , happy and healthy summer !
Sincerely , Dr . Janet Sardon Superintendent
38 WEST JEFFERSON HILLS