IN West Jefferson Hills Fall 2017 | Page 50

Pleasant Hills Middle School DAN COMO, PRINCIPAL It’s hard to believe the summer months have gone by so quickly. Hopefully, all of our students (and parents) had an opportunity to rest and relax before the start of a new school year. I want to thank our custodial and maintenance crews who worked tirelessly over the summer to make sure Pleasant Hills Middle School is ready for a brand new school year. They do a fantastic job! The 2017-18 school year looks to be another year full of opportunity for our students. Here are a few items to bring to your attention. Using Technology to Enhance Student Learning As a district and school we continue to research best practices to improve student learning. Technology is a tool we use to engage and motivate students as part of their education. The district is starting a 1:1 Initiative (one device for every student) starting with all fifth and eighth grade students in the 2017-18 school year. All eighth grade students at PHMS will receive a Google Chromebook to use in their classes. PHMS staff have made use of the educational applications from Google Suite for several years. Staff members began formal professional development using Google applications last school year. Our district goal is for all staff members to be Google Certified Instructors within two years. Teachers and students will use Google Classroom, Mathspace, and Frontier Learning to enhance student learning using innovative software and applications. More information will be provided to parents and students as we begin this exciting transition of putting a valuable resource in the hands of every student. A Fond Farewell to our Front Office Secretaries PHMS front office secretaries, Cindy Virgin and Kathy Hilf, recently announced their retirements from the West Jefferson Hills School District. Cindy and Kathy have worked tirelessly over thirty four years of combined experience serving the West Jefferson Hills Community. Thank you both for all your hard work. Enjoy retirement! We also would like to welcome our two new secretaries, Mrs. Crissy Horvitz and Mrs. Lisa Rondinelli. Good to have you both as part of PHMS. 48 West Jefferson Hills