Office of the Superintendent

Before you can demonstrate the strength and resiliency necessary to complete a journey, you must first discover the courage and conviction to begin it. In the Penn-Trafford School District, the start of a new school year represents a renewed commitment to embracing a culture of continuous improvement and reaffirming our longstanding belief that success is an intentional product of planning. 

“Bringing Out Our Best” has wide-ranging meaning for Penn-Trafford students and educators this school year. From a strategic development standpoint, the district’s goal is to identify and implement curricular upgrades in reading, math, social studies, and science aligned with the K-12 district curriculum timeline. The hiring of a new curriculum director in 2023-24 has led to the creation of new supplemental building-level curriculum data leaders in all our schools. Teachers in these new supplemental positions will serve as liaisons between administration and classroom teachers with an overarching goal of maintaining curricular consistency. Curriculum data leaders will be in place at the start of the 2024-25 school year, and we are excited to see how their proven skills, deep understanding of curricula, and proficiency in analyzing and leveraging data will help drive measurable performance outcomes. 

In the classroom, Penn-Trafford’s instructional approach will continue to be individualized and needs-focused. We will continue to identify and address opportunities to “meet students where they are” academically and move them forward using best practices for customized learning in each content area. From intensive and targeted remedial interventions to imaginative enrichment opportunities, Penn-Trafford will continue to skillfully deliver the curricular content, instruction, and all necessary supports to create active, engaged learners and high-performing achievers. 

Almost paradoxically, the 2024-25 school year will be one characterized by both change and consistency. Although we are implementing building leadership changes on the elementary level, Penn-Trafford is also taking careful consideration to preserve each building’s unique identity and special programs. 

Moreover, we plan to expand the very best concepts consistently across all the buildings. District leadership will work to ensure that the resources, curriculum methodology, and instructional practices are consistent across the district, and we look forward to seeing our talented elementary principals grow professionally and work with their respective staffs to bring out the best in young learners. 

Students learn best when they feel secure in their learning environment, and thanks in large part to the efforts and expertise of PTSD assistant superintendent Dr. Tiffany Nix, Penn-Trafford will be able to offer greater access to social workers and mental health resources in 2024-25. Over the past few years, the district has reported increased referrals to our Student Assistance Program (SAP) and identified more students in need of counseling. We are confident that the addition of social workers will prove to be instrumental and invaluable in addressing the needs of students and families in the district. 

The district is pleased to welcome six new teachers and a new administrator for the 2024-25 school year (see page 13). Additionally, we recognize the incredible contributions of our retiring employees (see page 14) as they move on from their careers in education. A hearty congratulations to both groups as they start an exciting and hopefully rewarding new chapter in their lives. 

On the financial front, the 2024- 25 district budget calls for a one mill increase in real estate taxes to help offset a 5.44% increase in expenditures, which equates to almost $3 million. Penn-Trafford’s current fund balance is approximately $5 million, including about $3.5 million in unassigned funds. The district is benefitting from a $75,000 grant to fund new STEM labs at the high school and middle schools. A separate grant is being used to upgrade camera equipment in the high school’s video production studio. Penn-Trafford School District also continues to successfully implement building safety measures. This year, we have secured safety grants to improve camera systems, two-way radios, window treatments, prevention pillars, door locks, and new vape detectors in our high school and middle schools. 

Extracurricular excellence is embedded in our DNA at Penn- Trafford. From athletics to the Arts, robotics to video production, the district provides virtually limitless opportunities for our students to excel and express themselves beyond the classroom. It is part of the “Warrior Way,” and in the end, it not only brings out our best but brings us together. 

“Bringing Out Our Best” in the Penn-Trafford School District will require the very best efforts of us all. And that’s exactly what our students deserve. Penn-Trafford has built a reputation for excellence and for graduating diversely talented achievers, involved citizens, and inspired leaders. Our schools are part of the community, and the positive influence of our community stakeholders – parents, business leaders, civic leaders, and residents – is evident all around us. We are PT proud and committed to making this the best year yet. We invite you to join us. 

Sincerely,

Dr. Matthew Harris

Superintendent of Schools