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while other school districts around the area and country are reducing courses and activities available to students, the Norwin school district is expanding to provide a wider range of options for high school students. the newly formed Air Force Junior reserve officer training (AFJrotc) Program is a perfect example of the school district’s commitment to prepare students with 21st century skills. its mission is simply to “develop citizens of character dedicated to serving their nation and community.” the program accomplishes this mission in a variety of ways, but primarily focuses on challenging students by placing them into situations where they can put into practice and develop those necessary 21st century skills. cadets in the AFJrotc Program are given the opportunity to serve in leadership roles in order to expand their skills of critical thinking, problem solving, communication, collaboration, creativity, and innovation while developing a high degree of strong morals, self-esteem, self-reliance, and personal appearance. Jrotc

programs have been in high schools for more than 100 years and Norwin’s program is one of 864 units supporting more than 120,000 Air Force Jrotc cadets world-wide.

the AFJrotc department has been very busy since the end of last school year preparing for the start of the new program at Norwin senior high school. More than $100,000 in curriculum, uniforms, and other support materials have been ordered at no cost to the school district to be ready for the start of the school year. currently, the program has more than 100 cadets from 9th through 12th grade. one of the most important tasks facing the program was to fill the more than 35 leadership positions from cadet corps group commander to cyber officer. Fortunately, the newly formed organization wasn’t short on enthusiastic cadets who were eager to step out of their comfort zone and begin to develop those skills in search of a sense of accomplishment.

the Norwin AFJrotc already has several accomplishments to be proud of and has set its sights on a clear vision for the future. Early on, cadets planned and organized a family picnic attended by more than 150 family members, they have designed an organizational patch and t-shirt, they have formed two co-curricular clubs, and they have been busy learning their drill (marching) skills. in an effort to serve their nation and community, the corps has set a goal of 1,300

New Air Force Junior ROTC Program Soars at Norwin High School

As part of a goal to increase digital literacy for students, Norwin school district has equipped classrooms in kindergarten through fourth grades with Apple iPads and plenty of educational software to maximize student learning and fun.

More than 400 iPads were purchased in time for the start of this school year to be shared among the four elementary schools of Norwin school district. this includes five iPads per K-4 elementary classroom, along with a budget to purchase “apps,” or educational software programs that teachers have carefully selected for educational content.

“we want students to learn technology and to use technology to learn,” said Mrs. Natalie Mccracken, Assistant superintendent of Elementary Education. “the iPads provide students and teachers with a way to engage students in individual learning activities based on unique student needs.”

in recent school years, students learned how to use the iPads in their instructional technology course. this year, they are accessing them daily through a variety of teacher-led educational exercises.

For example, reading specialist Ms. Patricia hart uses a variety of apps for her students at stewartsville Elementary school. Just one example from among many is an app called Educreations, which turns the iPad into an interactive whiteboard onto which students can draw, record, and use images to demonstrate an understanding of concepts from any subject.

“one of the benefits of using the iPads in the classroom is the ability to meet the individual needs of each student,” Ms. hart said.

Ms. Angel Bellante, a reading specialist at sheridan terrace Elementary school, has numerous apps at her disposal to help students. one of these apps is called sock Puppets, which lets students create their own lip-synched videos. students can put together a book talk or presentation using this app.

“it’s exciting now that the classroom teachers each have five of their own iPads that will help enhance their

K-4 Elementary Students Receive Technology Boost through iPad Initiative

instruction, provide practice opportunities for students, and support literacy development in all our students,” Ms. Bellante said.

Parent interest has been so high in the new apps that Ms. Bellante and others held several well-attended technology sessions for parents called “app buffets.”

Ms. Amanda Brunetto and Ms. rachel Kalberer, both second-grade teachers at sheridan terrace Elementary

school, use the iPads daily for both math and literacy. in math, the iPads help to engage the students to memorize their basic addition and subtraction facts, and they use several apps that help the students count coins and make change. in literacy, they use the iPads for spelling practice and for listening to reading.

“we also use a ‘glow’ app that the students use as an interactive whiteboard to practice writing their spelling words during word work,” Ms. Brunetto said. “in the near future, we plan on using the iPads as a different output to show

that they have mastered skills such as summarizing and retelling by making iMovies (digital videos).”

the total cost of the initiative was about $200,000, with funds available through the school district budget for textbooks/materials. As many other departments throughout the district have chosen to do, iPads or other forms of technology are being purchased

instead of a new textbook. Previous textbooks can be used along with the new technology, which can be

used to access multiple sources of information.in addition to the iPads, one Apple tV per grade

level in each K-4 building was purchased. the Apple tV enables teachers to project from the iPad to the classroom television screen.

Next school year, grades 5 and 6 at hillcrest intermediate school are budgeted to receive five iPads per classroom, an App budget, and Apple tVs. Additionally, hillcrest intermediate school, Norwin Middle school , and Norwin high school all have access to classroom carts of iPads and other forms of technology which have been purchased in previous years by several departments.

community service hours. Amazingly and with only a quarter of the school year complete, the cadets have participated in six events and have accumulated more than 250 service hours already. Probably their most ambitious and challenging task to date was to plan and participate in several Veterans day events, starting with marching in the Pittsburgh parade and ending with the cadets conducting a school-wide assembly to honor veterans past and present.

the AFJrotc staff is very proud of the progress thus far and is optimistic that the cadets will meet and exceed all their organizational goals they set this year. one of this year’s goals is to continue perfecting their drill skills and to participate in their first drill competition in January. they also look forward to planning and traveling to a nearby Air Force base on their first curriculum-in-action field trip. there’s no doubt the Air Force Jrotc Program is off to great start and the cadets are well on their way in establishing a strong foundation for the future of the program.

the Norwin high school Air Force Jrotc program teachers are lt. col. david sandala, senior aerospace science instructor; and chief Master sgt. tim conley, aerospace science instructor.

-Submitted by Chief Master Sergeant Tim Conley

Cadets enrolled in the new Norwin High School Air Force JROTC program march in the Pittsburgh Veterans Day Parade. The JROTC Color Guard leads the formation carrying the United States and Air Force flags and ceremonial rifles.

The Norwin Board of Education and Administration deserve a great deal of credit for bringing the new Air Force JROTC program to Norwin High School. Front Row (L-R): Becky A. Gediminskas; Barbara A. Viola; Robert J. Perkins, President; Thomas J. Sturm, Vice President; Darlene J. Ciocca. Back Row (L-R): Raymond Kocak; Dennis J. Rittenhouse; Lt. Col. David Sandala; Chief Master Sgt. Tim Conley; Donald W. Rhodes, Jr.; Albert C. Lynn; William H. Kerr, Superintendent of Schools.

Norwin | Winter 2014 | icmags.com 3130 Norwin30 Norwin

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Fallen Heroes to Be Remembered with Norwin Area Veterans’ Memorial

Bravery, loyalty, and love of country ... these are all qualities of the Norwin high school graduates who paid the ultimate sacrifice while serving our country. we, in the Norwin area, appreciate what these young people did to protect us and our freedom. Because of their devotion to our country, they deserve to be honored and memorialized.

Many community members were receptive to this idea, so a committee was formed. committee members have moved forward with the approval of the Norwin Board of Education. Plans have been drawn for a twenty-foot tall monument in the shape of an obelisk that will be erected on the Norwin high school campus.

the Norwin school district has been in existence since 1958. All students who have died in the line of duty since that date, while in the Air Force, Army, coast Guard, Marines, or Navy, will have their names inscribed on the monument. No local tax monies will be involved to fund this venture. instead, donations will be raised from the community – a monumental task since the estimated cost to build the monument will exceed $35,000. if you would be willing to donate to this project, s& t Bank in irwin, PA will take your donation. Please make your check payable to “Norwin Area Veterans’ Memorial.” Your name and donation will appear in the program when the monument is complete and we have the dedication ceremony.

thank you for your consideration.

Donations can be sent to:“Norwin Area Veterans’

Memorial”S&T Bank

309 Main StreetIrwin, PA 15642

$500,000 State Grant for Norwin School District

the Board of Education accepted a $500,000 grant from the Pennsylvania department of Education General Appropriations Act for the proposed Norwin stEM innovation center for teaching and learning. the measure establishes an internal budget line item in the General Fund for stEM education, namely to support Norwin school district’s 21st century Educational Model for enhancing curriculum, improving educational programs, building public-private working relationships, and developing an updated conceptual design and educational specifications for the proposed stEM innovation center.

on a related agenda item, a majority of the Board authorized hayes large Architects to proceed with a conceptual design Update and Educational specifications for the Norwin stEM innovation center, which is now being proposed to be located at Norwin high school. the architectural work will cost $17,500 and will be paid from the $500,000 state grant.

the Board also authorized the purchase of an Epilog Fusion 32 laser Engraver for the high school technology Education department from Allegheny Education systems, inc. as part of the Norwin stEM initiative. the $29,953.67 cost will be paid from the $500,000 state grant.

“students enrolled in technology education classes will use the laser engraver to do customized projects such as glass engraving, photo frames, puzzles, key chains, architectural models, manufacturing projects, and robotics,” said Mr. robert shuber, technology education department head. “the high school’s current laser engraver machine is 12 years old and has been heavily used by students.”

in addition, the old machine is not compatible with a recent windows software upgrade, Mr. shuber said. once the new laser engraver is up and running, an eventual goal might be to have students use the machine to work cooperatively with local companies.

Project Fit America, excela Health Provide Advanced exercise station & Program for students

Nearly 850 hillcrest intermediate school students, Norwin school district personnel, regional leaders, the Pirate Parrot, and “Norm” the iUP crimson hawk celebrated the school’s new fitness equipment and program at a special kickoff ceremony on wednesday, october 1, 2014.

A team of hillcrest students demonstrated the various stations of the outdoor equipment, including the Pole climb, Vault Bar, Pull Up Bar, sit Up/Push Up, horizontal ladder, Parallel Bar, and step Up. the student demonstrators included Alex Gabauer, Jordyn turcovski, Justin turcovski, Mara Polczynski and delaney williamson.

the oct. 1 kickoff ceremony was the result of a grant that hillcrest applied for through two foundations affiliated with Excela health, as well as Excela health’s new collaboration with Project Fit America, a national, non-profit provider of Fitness in Education programs in elementary and middle schools.

the Project Fit America program provided hillcrest intermediate school with not only state-of-the-art outdoor fitness equipment, but also numerous indoor fitness program materials and comprehensive training and curriculum. the program will be integrated into the school and used on a daily basis.

speakers at the kickoff event included Mr. Brian o’Neil, hillcrest intermediate school Principal; Mr. ted Kopas, westmoreland county commissioner; Mr. ron ott, senior Vice President, community and Government relations for

HILLCREST INTERMEDIATE SCHOOL STUDENTS THRILLED WITH NEW FITNESS EQUIPMENT

Excela health; dr. william Kerr, superintendent of schools; Mr. christopher tennant, health and Physical Education teacher; and Ms. Mary Ann stevens, health and Physical Education teacher. Mr. tennant and Ms. stevens wrote the grant application that released the funding for hillcrest intermediate school, with efforts led by retired hillcrest Principal rose dvorchak and Assistant superintendent of Elementary Education Natalie Mccracken, who were both in attendance at the ceremony.

two Norwin maintenance employees – Mr. steve Brentzel and Mr. Bob Gess – were applauded and celebrated by those in attendance for their quality work in installing the outdoor fitness equipment this past summer. Mr. o’Neil also displayed a Proclamation from Governor tom corbett honoring hillcrest’s commitment to fitness.

At the conclusion of the ceremony, hillcrest Principal Mr. Brian o’Neil had his head publicly shaved because his students met a fund-raising goal to benefit pediatric cancer research. At the school’s recent crazy hat and hair day, Principal o’Neil challenged students to raise more than $1,200, promising that if they did, he would have his head shaved at the ceremony. hillcrest students responded by raising $1,444.15.

Norwin high school senior Matt seiler recently had a once-in-a-lifetime experience: Performing at the Grand ole opry house in Nashville, tennessee, in a concert band with 150 of the nation’s most musically talented and skilled high school students.

Matt was named to the 2014 All-National concert Band honor Ensemble sponsored by the National Association for Music Education (NAfME).

Matt was the first band member from Norwin to earn this national honor since the inception of the organization. he auditioned for and earned a spot on the NAfME All-National honor Band as a percussionist. out of approximately 2.5 million students nationwide, the best of the best were selected for this elite group from local, district and state music festivals.

the NAfME All-National honors Ensembles were held october 26-29, 2014.

Matt attributes his success to tremendous support from his parents as well as instructors who have pushed him and helped him along the way.

“Music is one of the few activities in life where you can fully express yourself, and i am very fortunate that i’m able to participate in the art form,” Matt said. “i am also extremely honored to have been chosen to perform alongside such talented

high school musicians.”Mrs. Kimberly Glover, Associate high school Band

director, said Matt is very deserving of this honor. “Matt is probably the hardest working student i have

ever had the privilege to teach,” Mrs. Glover said. “we can all learn a great deal from Matt about work ethic. Not only is Matt an outstanding musician, he is able to balance this extremely high level of musicianship with his impressive class rank, academics, and his position on the Varsity Boys Golf team. he is a role model for all of us. And, he is a true testament to the fact that hard work pays off.”

Matt plans to study petroleum engineering in college.

Percussionist Matt Seiler at a recent rehearsal at Norwin High School. Photo by Kim Glover.

NORWIN’S MATT SEILER NAMED TO ALL-NATIONAL HONOR BANDHigh School Percussionist First Band Member from Norwin to Earn This National Honor

Norwin | Winter 2014 | icmags.com 3332 Norwin

Norwin High School Physics Teacher Selected as Air Force Association Teacher of the Year

Mr. doug Knipple, a physics instructor at Norwin high school, has been selected as the Air Force Association teacher of the Year.

this is Mr. Knipple’s 19th year at Norwin. he currently teaches Academic Physics and Electricity & Magnetism. he is a graduate of st. Vincent college with a B.s. in Physics, has a graduate certificate in Educational technology from Penn state, and has taken graduate classes through Pitt and seton hill.

Mr. Knipple was recognized by local and state Air Force Association chapters for his accomplishments in exciting students about science and math and preparing them to use and contribute to tomorrow’s technologies.

Mr. Patrick Kon, President of the Mon Valley chapter No. 388 of the Air Force Association, presented Mr. Knipple with the award at a Norwin high school faculty meeting in september.

As this year’s recipient, Mr. Knipple received a personalized jacket, a state teacher of the Year pin, a small cash award, and a complimentary civil Air Patrol Aerospace Education Membership sponsored by the civil Air Patrol. Mr. Knipple generously donated the proceeds from his award to the new Air Force Jrotc program at Norwin high school.

The Pirate Parrot gives a thumbs up to students.

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CoNgrAtulAtioNs to Norwin Knights Fall sports teams!

we take this opportunity to congratulate all fall sports teams for their successful seasons. we are also pleased to share information about these varsity sports teams that made it to the

post-season. All photos by Norwin High School Pennon / Yearbook.

The Girls Cross Country team was section champions and was undefeated in their section.

The Norwin Knights Football team qualified for the WPIAL playoffs.

Boys’ Golf player Kory Sandleitner qualified for the WPIAL championships as an individual.

The Girls’ Golf team won its first-ever section title in program history.

The Girls’ Soccer team became section champions and had an undefeated section record.

The Girls’ Volleyball team became section

champions.

Girls’ Tennis players Maria Santilli (left) and Autumn Miller (right) were section champions for tennis doubles.

Norwin High School Holiday Concerts Open to the Public 2014-15

Norwin high school Band, choral, and orchestra students are inviting the general public to a series of holiday or winter concerts. we invite you to see and hear firsthand the stirring harmonies and musical

artistry that have been a tradition of excellence at Norwin’s music program for years.Please find below a listing of the days, times, and admission details for the 2014-2015 holiday concerts

that are open to the general public.

Norwin High school orchestra and Jazz Band Concertthursday, december 18, 20147 p.m.

Norwin High schoolwinter Choral Concert (featuring Freshman Choir, Concert Choir, Bel Canto, Chamber Choir, and show Choir) sunday, december 14, 2014, 2:30 p.m.

All concerts: $3 for adults, $2 for students and senior citizens at the door.

Norwin High school winter Band Concertthursday, January 29, 2015sNow dAtE: Friday January 30, 20157 p.m.

Boys VArsity BAsketBAll

12/05/2014 Tournament TBD Norwin High School Tip-Off Tournament 12/06/2014 Tournament TBA Norwin High School Tip-Off Tournament 12/09/2014 Tournament TTBD Away vs. Franklin Regional Franklin Regional High School 12/10/2014 Tournament TBD Away vs. Franklin Regional Franklin Regional High School 12/12/2014 Game 7:30pm Connellsville Norwin High School12/16/2014 Game 7:30pm Away vs. Albert Gallatin Albert Gallatin High School12/23/2014 Game 7:30pm Greater Latrobe Senior Norwin High School01/06/2015 Game 7:45pm Away vs. Kiski Area Kiski Area High School01/09/2015 Game 7:30pm Hempfield Norwin High School01/13/2015 Game 7:30pm Away vs. Penn Trafford Penn Trafford High School01/16/2015 Game 7:30pm Away vs. Connellsville Connellsville High School01/20/2015 Game 7:30pm Albert Gallatin Norwin High School01/27/2015 Game 7:30pm Away vs. Greater Latrobe Senior Greater Latrobe High School01/28/2015 Game 7:30pm Away vs. McKeesport Area McKeesport Area High School01/30/2015 Game 7:30pm Kiski Area Norwin High School02/03/2015 Game 7:30pm Away vs. Hempfield Hempfield High School02/06/2015 Game 7:30pm Penn Trafford Norwin High School

VArsity swimmiNg

12/11/2014 Meet 6:00pm Away vs. Indiana Indiana Area Senior High School12/15/2014 Meet 6:00pm Derry Area Norwin High School 12/18/2014 Meet 6:00pm Away vs. Franklin Regional Franklin Regional High School 12/22/2014 Meet 6:00pm Away vs. Elizabeth Forward Elizabeth Forward High School01/08/2015 Meet 6:00pm Hempfield Norwin High School01/13/2015 Meet 6:00pm Penn Hills Norwin High School01/15/2015 Meet 6:00pm Away vs. Laurel Highlands Laurel Highlands High School01/22/2015 Meet 6:00pm Away vs. Greater Latrobe Senior Greater Latrobe High School01/29/2015 Meet 6:00pm Connellsville Norwin High School02/05/2015 Meet 6:00pm Kiski Area Norwin High School02/10/2015 Game 6:00pm Gateway Norwin High School02/12/2015 Meet 6:00pm Away vs. Penn Trafford Penn Trafford High School

Norwin Knights Winter Sports Schedules

girls VArsity BAsketBAll

11/22/2014 Scrimmage 1:00pm Away vs. Chartiers Valley, Chartiers Valley High School Norwin, Pine Richland12/01/2014 Scrimmage 4:00pm Away vs. Blackhawk Blackhawk High School12/05/2014 Tournament TBD Norwin High School Tip-Off Tournament 12/06/2014 Tournament TBD Norwin High School Tip-Off Tournament 12/08/2014 Game 7:30pm Bethel Park Norwin High School12/11/2014 Game 7:30pm Connellsville Norwin High School12/15/2014 Game 7:30pm Away vs. Albert Gallatin Albert Gallatin High School12/18/2014 Game 7:30pm North Allegheny Norwin High School12/22/2014 Game 7:30pm Greater Latrobe Senior Norwin High School12/27/2014 Tournament 11:00am Away vs. Obama Academy Penn Hills H.S. 12/29/2014 Tournament 8:00pm Away vs. Upper St. Clair Penn Hills H.S. 12/30/2014 Tournament 8:00pm Away vs. Penn Hills Penn Hills H.S. 01/05/2015 Game 7:30pm Away vs. Kiski Area Kiski Area H.S. 01/08/2015 Game 7:30pm Hempfield Norwin High School 01/12/2015 Game 7:30pm Away vs. Penn Trafford Penn Trafford H.S. 01/15/2015 Game 7:30pm Away vs. Connellsville Connellsville H.S. 01/19/2015 Game 7:30pm Albert Gallatin Norwin High School 01/20/2015 Game 6:00pm Blackhawk Norwin High School 01/23/2015 Game 7:30pm Away vs. Gateway Gateway High School 01/26/2015 Game 7:30pm Away vs. Greater Latrobe Greater Latrobe 01/29/2015 Game 7:30pm Kiski Area Norwin High School 02/02/2015 Game 7:30pm Away vs. Hempfield Hempfield H.S. 02/06/2015 Game 6:00pm Penn Trafford Norwin High School

VArsity wrestliNg

11/29/2014 Scrimmage 9:00am Away vs. Chartiers Valley Chartiers Valley High School12/05/2014 Tournament 4:30pm Away vs. Gateway Gateway High School12/06/2014 Tournament 10:00am Away vs. Gateway Gateway High School12/10/2014 Match 7:00pm Away vs. Greensburg Salem Greensburg Salem High School12/17/2014 Match 7:00pm Penn Trafford Norwin High School12/29/2014 Tournament 8:30am Away vs. Canon-McMillan Canon-McMillan High School12/30/2014 Tournament 10:00am Away vs. Canon-McMillan Canon-McMillan High School01/02/2015 Match 7:00pm Away vs. Greater Latrobe Senior Greater Latrobe High School01/14/2015 Match TBD Hempfield Norwin High School01/24/2015 Tournament 9:00am Away vs. Chartiers Valley Chartiers Valley High School02/07/2015 Tournament 9:00am Away vs. Uniontown Area P.S.U./Fayette Campus

For the most current sports schedule, visit www.norwinwpial.org

Norwin | Winter 2014 | icmags.com 3534 Norwin

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starting in November 2014, Norwin high school students will be the first in Pennsylvania to have the opportunity to create a profile on the stEM Premier networking web site.

stEM Premier is an educational services company that began in south carolina two years ago, and currently serves students nationwide with an emphasis on south carolina, indiana, Nevada, texas and now Pennsylvania. in simple terms, stEM Premier creates the online version of a “baseball card” for students, listing their “stats” and areas of interests. this enables students to showcase their abilities and achievements to prospective employers and postsecondary institutions, and also to learn about scholarship opportunities and internship openings.

student participation will be voluntary and will include parent permission. stEM Premier will donate memberships to all students in the Norwin school district.

All interested Norwin high school students will have a guaranteed membership, beginning with seniors, juniors, and sophomores within the first semester, followed by freshmen beginning the second semester of this school year. students can opt to be ranked according to stEM aptitude, or they can create a profile that focuses on other disciplines, community service, and

extracurricular activities. Further, the program is open to all students of all aptitudes and interest levels, not just those who are excelling in stEM subject areas.

Norwin school district is the first school district in Pennsylvania to establish a public-private partnership with

stEM Premier. the company is donating “premium” licenses to all 1,590 Norwin high school students in perpetuity, giving them more features than the company’s standard version. these include a module that assists students in finding internships and jobs, a tool that enables students to apply for exclusive stEM Premier scholarships, and a rating / ranking feature that helps students see how they compare against their peers.

All correspondence between companies or universities and students are automatically accessible by parents, and the interactive platform is a closed social media network with no external or unauthorized communication to maintain the integrity and security of the student profiles. Additionally, none of the student profile information

or data will be sold to any other entity. only colleges and businesses that subscribe to the service will have access to student profiles.

More information is available on the Norwin school district web site at www.norwinsd.org under “headlines.” to learn more about stEM Premier, visit www.stemPremier.com.

NorwiN hiGh school stUdENts to BE First iN PENNsYlVANiA to UsE to stEM PrEMiEr

Senior Dom Gaudio puts on a brave face before being dunked in the dunk tank.

Norwin | Winter 2014 | icmags.com 3736 Norwin

Norwin high school is offering ninth-grade students a new option: the opportunity to take half-day classes at the central westmoreland career and technology center (ctc) in New stanton. in the past, enrollment at the ctc was offered to students in grades 10-12 at Norwin high school.

the change allows students additional opportunities to begin learning about and training for a future career, with more flexibility to participate in co-op programs and internships their senior year. these provide direct, on-the-job training.

sixteen ninth-grade students from Norwin are taking advantage of the new option and have enrolled in ctc programs such as auto collision technology, computer information, electronics technology, culinary arts, heating and air conditioning, and cosmetology. they study at the ctc in the morning, then return to Norwin high school to take Math, English, science and social studies during the afternoon.

“it gives motivated students an advantage,” said Mr. tim Kotch, Norwin high school principal.

the high school set eligibility criteria for interested students. in addition to good attendance and discipline, students must have a solid academic background in math and science during Grades 7 and 8 at Norwin Middle school.

NORWIN HIGH SCHOOL EXPANDS CAREER AND TECHNOLOGY CENTER OPTIONS

Ninth-grade students Can Now enroll in Half-Day Career and technical education Programs

The inaugural group of Norwin ninth-grade students who also attend CTC.

these trailblazing ninth-grade students seem excited about their decision to enroll in ctc programs.

“i did it because i wanted to learn how to cook better. i’ve always wanted to cook since i was little,” said Zachary hensel, who is enrolled in culinary arts at central westmoreland career and technology center.

For shane dittman, the decision to enroll in auto collision technology was an easy one because of his hobbies. he said he frequently draws illustrations of cars and also plays simulation video games in which you can customize a vehicle, such as Gran turismo 5 for the Playstation 3.

Across Norwin high school’s entire student body from grades 9 to 12, a total of 109 students attend half-day programs at the central westmoreland career and technology center.

central westmoreland career and technology center serves students from 10 area school districts. of those school districts, only two – Norwin and Yough – allow early enrollment for ninth-grade students.

the Norwin community turned out in force to experience a first-ever homecoming carnival at Norwin high school, followed by a series of other community events during the course of homecoming weekend.

Attendance at the family-style carnival was estimated to be between 1,200 and 1,500 people. the event was held just before the Norwin high school homecoming football game on Friday, october 3, 2014.

People enjoyed a dunk tank that featured students and faculty on the “seat of honor,” a photo booth from infinite Pose-abilities, a face painting station set up and run by the Norwin Art club under the direction of Mrs. debbie roberts, food vendors, and a drink station. there was a bounce house available in the gym, as well as 16 carnival games under 14 tents run by various high school clubs and organizations.

the carnival raised about $1,200 for the westmoreland county Food Bank, with an emphasis on helping Norwin-area families.

A very special thank you to the class advisors and their officers for planning and running the event, including senior class advisors Mrs. lori Anselmino and Mrs. Peggy

Bryan overseeing food, Junior class advisors Mrs. danae Brentzel-Martina and Ms. Kim whitaker overseeing games, sophomore class advisor Mr. dave Jordan handling all finances, and Freshman class advisor Mr. t.J. lloyd overseeing entertainment.

discussions are already underway to improve the carnival at next year’s homecoming and make this an annual event.

Following the carnival, the high school Varsity football team defeated the Kiski Area cavaliers with a 42-3 victory. community members donated non-perishable food items at ticket gates at Norwin Knights stadium. Additionally, the coronation of this year’s homecoming king, queen, and presentation of the court took place at halftime.

the weekend activities continued saturday october 4, 2014, with the annual homecoming Parade presented by the high school student council beginning at 10:30 a.m. the parade route followed its traditional path through irwin, beginning at immaculate conception church and ending at the intersection of Main street and Pennsylvania Avenue. this was a major event with full participation by school and community groups, including school board members, administrators, principals, teachers, and students.

Inaugural Community Carnival and Homecoming Events a Big Hit

A bounce house, and a large crowd, were highlights of the first-ever Norwin Homecoming Carnival.

The 2014 Homecoming Court, along with Student Council escorts, gather on the steps of Immaculate Conception Church before the annual Homecoming Parade on Oct. 4, 2014. (Photo by Paul McLaughlin)

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Norwin high school has expanded its options for eleventh and twelfth-grade students who are looking to earn some college credit while still in high school.

westmoreland county community college has now been added to Norwin high school’s offerings in the college in the high school Program. this is in addition to the high school’s programs with indiana University of Pennsylvania, seton hill University, and the University of Pittsburgh.

westmoreland county community college offers face-to-face and online dual enrollment courses to juniors and seniors. students should see their guidance counselor for more information. the program is only open to juniors and seniors, who can take a maximum of two courses per semester.

the westmoreland county community college dual Enrollment Program allows qualified high school juniors and seniors to experience college while simultaneously completing their high school requirements. the program enhances confidence and capabilities and enables students to challenge themselves and start college early.

students are often better prepared for college by experiencing college academics early, and credits earned may transfer to four-year colleges and universities. that means participating students can earn a college degree in less time.

in addition, dual Enrollment students are entitled to use wccc facilities and services including the library, tutoring and computer labs, gymnasium and fitness center as well as academic advising and counseling.

A group of Norwin teachers and administrators recently toured the new Advanced Technology Center at Westmoreland County Community College at its grand opening on September 5, 2014. Left to right: Mr. Robert

Shuber, Norwin Technology Education Department Chair; Dr. Tracy McNelly, Assistant Superintendent of Secondary Education; Dr. Tuesday Stanley, new Community College president; Dr. William Kerr, Superintendent of Schools; Mr. Michael Choby, Coordinator of STEM Education and Norwin High School Assistant Principal; Mr.

Timothy Lloyd, Science Department Chair; Mr. Ray Rakvic, Business Department Chair.

NorwiN Now oFFers “College iN HigH sCHool” ProgrAm witH wCCC

dual enrollment is described as an opportunity that allows high school and home school students to earn college credits for courses taken through a postsecondary institution while still attending high school. students will be enrolled in both the high school and the postsecondary institution.

Norwin high school juniors and seniors also have an opportunity to earn four college credits by taking a course titled overview of the Natural Gas & oil technology in an online format.

A future goal is to enable Norwin high school students to take more advanced courses at the community college. Norwin high school students who complete all requirements could earn a westmoreland county community college stEM certificate, which would allow students to pursue further course work in preparation for high-demand technical occupations, or be better prepared to enter the work force.

the new stEM Education workforce Partnership will provide Norwin high school students with expanded learning opportunities through college and career pathways. Norwin high school students will also benefit from the college’s new Advanced technology center’s state-of-the-art equipment and instruction, linkages to employers, value-added articulation agreements, stackable certificates and a solid preparation to pursue a technical degree.

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the marching band has been busy since June, and has attended all home football games to cheer on and support the Norwin Knights varsity football team. their halftime show this year included popular tunes from the 2013 top hits including timber and Pompeii. At the home games, they performed their competitive show, “when worlds collide,” after the game. this competitive show included music by Gustav holst, ilyan Eshkeri, imogen heap and the Beastie Boys.

the band’s competitive season kicked off with their annual preview show at Norwin high school. Next, they headed to the Kiski Band Festival. on september 20th, they competed in the Bands of America Monroeville regional. they were crowned class AA champions and took home awards for “high Music” and “General Effect.” in finals later that night, they placed second overall and took home the “high Music” caption for the entire competition.

on september 27, 2014, the band hosted the 53rd- annual Norwin Band Festival. there were 11 bands in attendance from Pennsylvania and west Virginia. the band performed for a packed Norwin stadium. it was

The Norwin Band performed at the Bands of America Regional at The University of Delaware, where the Band was named 2014 Bands of America Regional Champions. Photo by Frank Rossi.

Each september, approximately one-third of the 50,000 high scorers on the PsAt are notified that they have qualified as National Merit semifinalists. three students qualified as National Merit semi-finalists from Norwin high school this year. they are samuel Bartuska, Alec Gongaware and Megan seiler. in order to move forward in the process, the students are working with high school administration and guidance to complete an online application that will be submitted in october. congratulations to samuel, Alec, and Megan!

we would also like to congratulate the three Norwin students who were named National Merit commended students: John driggers, tyler Quintana, and trenton walko.

Three High School Students Named National Merit Semifinalists

Samuel Bartuska Megan Seiler Alec Gongaware

Norwin Band Named 2014 Bands of America Regional Champions

a great day to showcase the hard work of hundreds of students.

Always a community highlight, the band performed in the homecoming parade on saturday, october 4th. on october 18th, the band performed at the Pennsylvania interscholastic Marching Band competition at deer lakes, and won first place in the AAAA class as well as the captions of high Visual Effect and high Music.

the weekend of october 25, the band traveled to Newark, delaware to compete against bands from six states in the Bands of America regional at the University of delaware. the Norwin Band was named 2014 Bands of America regional champions, scoring first place overall, and also earning the high Visual Performance Award and high General Effect Award.

they concluded their marching season by placing first at the PiMBA state Marching Band championships on saturday, November 1, 2014, at Penn trafford high school. the band won all three caption awards which included high Music, high Visual and high General Effect. congratulations to Norwin Band on another outstanding season of “Presence…Pride...and Artistry!”

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the Norwin school District Community Foundation is affiliated with the Norwin school District and is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that was created in 2007.

the Foundation’s mission is to develop programs and activities benefiting Norwin school District students, to develop and increase community philanthropy, to develop and administer scholarship funds for graduates of Norwin school District, and to support educational programs. to learn more, visit www.norwinsd.org/foundation.

the Norwin school district community Foundation is in the beginning stages of creating a Norwin Alumni (and Friends) Association. this group will strive to do more than keep high school memories alive; its goal is to keep alumni connected to each other, as well as providing an opportunity to recognize both academic and business accomplishments of Norwin alumni. this group will also serve as a resource in the planning of class reunions. Anyone interested in becoming a member can join the group’s Facebook page,Norwin Alumni and Friends, send an email to norwinalumni@gmail.com, or findout more about the organization at www.norwinsd.org/alumni.

Norwin School District Community Foundation Explores Creation of Alumni Association

Photo courtesy of Norwin Pennon Yearbook 1981

this school year, hillcrest intermediate school plans to start its own in-school news broadcast, and Norwin Middle school music students will experience all the enhancements of technology, thanks to a fourth year of educational funding from the Norwin school district community Foundation.

the Norwin school district community Foundation announced $1,948.80 in Educator innovations Grant awards for two educational projects that will benefit at least 1,000 students in the 2014-2015 school year.

teacher Ms. denise Bilott was awarded $978 for a program that will use iPads to enhance the band curriculum at Norwin Middle school.

teachers Ms. Paula Giran and Mr. thom swenson were awarded $970.80 to start a student news broadcast at hillcrest intermediate school.

the Foundation’s competitive Educator innovations Grant program challenges district teachers to dream up an innovative classroom

Ms. Bilott Ms. Giran Mr. swenson

Grants from Norwin School District Community Foundation Benefit Hillcrest, Middle School Students

scholarships are a major part of what the Norwin school district community Foundation does to help Norwin students. the Norwin school district community Foundation oversees 17 scholarships that individuals or local families have created.

since the Foundation’s inception in 2007 to the present, total scholarships given have exceeded $172,000. this includes scholarships totaling approximately $42,000 that were awarded to students in spring 2014.

Norwin high school students who are interested in the Norwin school district community Foundation scholarships are asked to check with the high school Guidance office. Additional information is available at the Foundation’s web site, www.norwinsd.org/foundation.

project that might not otherwise be funded by the school budget. An independent review team scores applications without knowing the identities of those who applied.

since the inception of the Educator innovations Grant program in 2011 through today, the Norwin school district community Foundation has distributed a total of $9,735 in grants for projects that have benefitted about 2,400 students.

These Norwin Class of 2014 graduates received $8,500 apiece in scholarships from the Thomas J. and Gladys Sowash Stoker

Scholarship offered through the Norwin School District Community Foundation. The 2014 receipients, seated in the front row from left to

right, were Kira Baierl (Washington and Jefferson University), Catherine Ferragonio (Clarion University), Jacob Hannahs (Marietta College), and Lindsay Westwood (Slippery Rock University). They were joined by their

parents standing behind them.

Scholarships Provided by the Norwin School District Community Foundation

the Norwin school district community Foundation expresses its deep appreciation to First National Bank for donations that support innovative programs for Norwin school district students.

in september 2014, First National Bank made an extraordinary $30,000 donation to the Norwin school district community Foundation through the state’s Educational improvement tax credit (Eitc) program. this will support advanced academic programs for Norwin students.

this was the bank’s second donation through the state program. in 2013, First National Bank made a generous $5,000 donation to the Norwin school district community Foundation through Eitc. this donation enabled Norwin school district to hold a 2014 summer camp about electronic circuitry called “little Bits” for elementary students. the donation provided the high-tech circuitry equipment which students at hillcrest intermediate school will enjoy for years to come. At the summer camp, students made innovative creations using magnetic circuits that were pre-wired to function as mechanical or electronic pieces. students enhanced their projects with artwork to complete a creative, inventive twist to engineering. the camp was led by Ms.

Molli Brown, an art teacher at hillcrest intermediate school, and Ms. diana cardamone, a teacher at both sunset Valley and stewartsville elementary schools.

“Making donations through the Eitc program to organizations like Norwin school district gives First National Bank the opportunity to make a difference in our local communities,” said Mr. Vincent J. delie, Jr., President and cEo of Pittsburgh-based F.N.B. corporation and cEo of First National Bank.

Ms. heidi stratton-Minor, Branch Manager at First National Bank’s circleville office, visited the little Bits camp to see the students’ final projects. she said First National Bank is happy to partner with Norwin school district.

“we know that through programs like Norwin’s, an investment in our children’s education enriches their lives as well as the livelihood of the entire community,” Ms. stratton-Minor said.

Ms. stratton-Minor also volunteers as a board member of the Norwin school district community Foundation.

the Norwin school district community Foundation is a registered

Above: Ms. Heidi Stratton-Minor, Assistant Vice President and Branch Manager of First National Bank’s Circleville Office, stands with grateful students. Left: Ms. Stratton-Minor. Below: Jack Conley and

Connor Lydon demonstrate the soft glow of their “Movie Theater at Night” that they made at the Little Bits Circuitry Camp.

501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. donations to the Foundation are tax deductible.

F.N.B. corporation (NYsE: FNB), headquartered in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, is a diversified financial services company operating in six states and three major metropolitan areas. learn more at www.fnbcorporation.com.

to learn how to put your company’s tax dollars to work in the Norwin community through Pennsylvania’s Education improvement tax credit program, visit www.newpa.com/eitc.

Norwin Students Thank First National Bank

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