2026 National Merit Program
Congratulations to TJHS Seniors Matthew Bonte and Ashlyn Williams on Being Named Commended Students in the 2026 National Merit Program!
We are thrilled to celebrate TJHS seniors Matthew Bonte and Ashlyn Williams for being named Commended Students in the 2026 National Merit Scholarship Program. This prestigious recognition places them among the top students nationwide, highlighting their outstanding academic achievement and dedication to excellence.
Their hard work, determination, and commitment to learning have set them apart, and we could not be prouder to have them representing TJHS with distinction. Achievements like this reflect not only personal success but also the supportive and inspiring environment of our school community.
Congratulations again, Matthew and Ashlyn! Your accomplishments are a shining example of what TJHS students can achieve, and we look forward to seeing the amazing paths you will continue to forge.
Way to represent TJHS with excellence!
West Jefferson Hills Students Raise Funds to Support Veterans Through Service Dogs
The West Jefferson Hills School District is proud to announce its partnership with Life Changing Service Dogs for Veterans, an organization founded by two Pittsburgh veterans, Army Lieutenant Anthony Accamando and Air Force General George D’ Angelo.
Motivated by the alarming statistic that 22 veterans take their own lives each day in the United States, Accamando and D’ Angelo sought a solution through Medical Service Dogs and Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs, a Florida-based organization that provides service dogs to disabled veterans at no cost. Since its inception, no veteran who has received a service dog from Life Changing Service Dogs has died by suicide.
The organization is dedicated to supporting veterans returning home with Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder( PTSD), Traumatic Brain Injury( TBI), mobility challenges, and other physical and emotional injuries.
Students at Thomas Jefferson High School( TJHS) have taken an active role in this mission. They have been fundraising with the goal of donating a service dog to a local veteran. The effort included a Veterans Day benefit concert, featuring performances by the TJHS band, choir, and orchestra, along with a special appearance by Donna Groom.
All proceeds from fundraising events will go directly to Life Changing Service Dogs for Veterans, helping provide life-changing support for those who have served the nation.
est Jefferson Hills WEST JEFFERSON HILLS SCHOOL DISTRICT NEWS
Thomas Jefferson High School Awarded $ 5,000 Allstate Foundation Grant
The Allstate Foundation proudly acknowledged and sincerely thanked Dr. Jennifer Kassimer, Director of Technology and Innovation, and 10th-grade student Parker Bogdan for their outstanding time, energy, and dedication in supporting the Allstate Insurance Helping Hands Grant application.
Their efforts resulted in a $ 5,000 award to Thomas Jefferson High School, which was utilized to establish a student-led technology help desk designed to assist students, staff, and teachers with school-based software and iPad issues. The help desk team also provided helpful tips and tricks to ensure the successful use of the school’ s newly implemented iPads and to maximize their functionality.
The WJHSD thanks the Allstate Foundation and Blair Bogdan Insurance Agency for awarding the $ 5,000 grant to support the newly designed SPOT program at TJHS.
Dr. Kassimer and Parker Bogdan’ s leadership and commitment exemplified the spirit of innovation and service that continues to strengthen the Thomas Jefferson High School community.
WEST JEFFERSON HILLS ❘ WINTER 2025 33