Principal's Message

Hello Homer-Center Families, Students, and Community Members,

I hope that this newsletter finds everyone healthy, safe, and enjoying their summer!   It truly seems to be flying by this year and it is hard to believe that we are already preparing for the return to school.  Hopefully the time off has allowed everyone to relax and recharge their batteries. As we approach the end of August, you can almost feel the energy and excitement growing in the building! I am truly looking forward to bringing staff and students together once again.

I am proud to share that we will be in our third year of utilizing a Multi-Tiered System of Support (MTSS) structure at each grade level.   Your child(ren) may refer to it as WIN time which stands for What I Need.  During this time, all students are provided with opportunities for remediation or enrichment of skills in the areas of language arts and mathematics. The students are divided into groups and taught by grade level as well as specialist teachers.  These groups are flexible and change based on the skills being taught.  In addition, they are closely monitored to ensure that students are truly getting the instruction that they need.  Last year, many research-based interventions and strategies were implemented and initial data shows that our students demonstrated growth due to the instruction and small group instruction that they received!  We will continue to refine our WIN time this year with the goal of additional intervention options and ultimately more growth for our students.

This year we will be welcoming two new members to the elementary Wildcat teaching staff.  Mrs. Autumn Shafron will be joining us as our new art teacher.  She is a former Seton Hill University graduate and completed part of her student teaching experience at Homer-Center. She has also previously taught art in the Ferndale School District.  Mr. John Rupert is an IUP alumnus and has spent the past several years in the Penns Valley School District.  He will be teaching 3^rd grade this year.  We are very excited to have them join our school family!

As we approach the start of the year, it is important to remember that communication is the key to ensuring the success of all students.  Throughout the school year questions will inevitably arise.  The person with the most knowledge of your child in school is your child’s teacher(s).   They can help you with assignments, grades, or questions regarding what may be happening in classes. Please contact them right away with any concerns or questions.  Our guidance counselor is also a wonderful resource particularly if there are social or emotional concerns as well as questions regarding outside services. Additionally, Mrs. Williams and I are always available to answer questions or hear your concerns.  We welcome ongoing communication with all of our families.  Collectively, school and families, we can work together to ensure that your child has a positive and successful year. 

If you are looking to build a stronger connection with the elementary school please be on the lookout for opportunities to join our PTA, attend parent resource events, or other volunteer opportunities.  Our Homer-Center Elementary PTA is an important group that works closely with teachers and administration in order to provide fun and educational experiences.  This group plans and runs our festivals and as well as assisting in funding activities such as field trips.  The PTA can also provide the opportunity to make connections with other families and to make a positive impact on the school.  Be on the lookout for more information on how to become a member this school year!

I am truly eager to begin the 2023-2024 school year.  While summer is filled with rest, relaxation, and planning, I thrive on the building being full of students and staff.   We have an amazing team that is ready to begin the next chapter.  I look forward to welcoming everyone back this year!