Blue & White Newsletter - 4/11/25

Five talented students from the High School's Entrepreneurship "Shark Tank" Club, under the guidance of Mr. Christopher Storm (Computer Science/STEM/Business Education Teacher), recently showcased their innovative spirit at Bloomsburg University's 8th Annual Husky Dog Pound Competition.

This Shark Tank-style event challenges teams to deliver a 3-minute pitch for a viable business idea, followed by a 5-minute Q&A with the judges. Teams are evaluated on four key criteria: marketability, feasibility, profitability, and presentation skills.

Representing our school were Marco Cifuentes Araujo, Joseph Amador Bustillo, Sarah Manning, Logan McHale, and Marvin Vega Diaz, who impressed the judges with their original concept: BlitzBall — an energetic new game that blends elements of indoor soccer, pool, and ping pong.

BlitzBall follows the basic rules of ping pong but adds a twist of excitement with corner pockets and goal scoring. Sink the ball in a corner pocket? That’s 10 points! Score a goal? 3 points! The first to 21 wins. Designed for all ages, BlitzBall brings unpredictable fun to family game nights and gatherings — “Taking your entertainment to the next level, one play at a time!”

In addition to the competition, students explored Bloomsburg University through a campus tour, attended a college fair, and enjoyed a great meal at Scranton Commons.

Today, our NJROTC Cadets, lead by Master Gunnery Sergeant Jesus Lizano, proudly participated in the annual Pass in Review Ceremony—a time-honored tradition that showcases their discipline, teamwork, and commitment to excellence.

The event began with a formal inspection, where cadets were evaluated by visiting officers on their proficiency in drill and ceremony, as well as their overall appearance and discipline. This was followed by a ceremonial presentation that included the posting of colors, precision drill team performances, and the coordinated marching of cadets in formation.

The Pass in Review not only highlights the cadets’ dedication and growth throughout the year but also serves as part of the Navy’s annual certification process to ensure NJROTC programs meet national standards.

Alpha Company, Bravo Company, and Charlie Company each performed exceptionally well, impressing those in attendance with their skill and coordination.

The ceremony was led by Inspecting Officer Commander Dennis P. Dias, US Navy (Retired). During the event, several cadets were recognized with awards for their outstanding commitment to the core values and structure of the NJROTC program.

Congratulations to all our cadets for a successful and inspiring Pass in Review!

We’re excited to share that First Capital Federal Credit Union has been named one of the recipients of the CrossState Credit Union Association’s "Leaders in Financial Literacy Award"!

This award honors their ongoing commitment to promoting financial literacy—especially through their student-run branches, including our very own Bulldog Branch at the High School. In 2025, the Association once again recognized credit unions that are making a real impact, including those excelling in the Collaboration in Financial Literacy category, which celebrates teamwork in serving our communities.

First Capital’s efforts extend beyond the high school. Each year, they bring their Moon Jar Lessons program to first-grade students at Wallace Elementary, introducing young learners to the fundamentals of saving, spending, and sharing in a fun and age-appropriate way.

This past Monday, we were honored to welcome Auditor General Timothy DeFoor to Ms. Jennifer LaCour's class at Wallace Elementary, where he observed a Moon Jar lesson in action! They read a story about a moon jar, and the children made their own moon jars. The children learned how to save, spend, and share their money.

Thank you, First Capital, for being such an incredible partner in empowering our students with lifelong financial skills!

This week marked the return of our spring concerts, kicking off with performances by our youngest musicians and vocalists from Trimmer Elementary. Students from the Beginning Band, Concert Band, 4th Grade Chorus, and 5th Grade Chorus proudly took the stage to share their hard work and musical growth with the West York community.

On Wednesday evening, the Elementary Beginning Band, under the direction of Ms. Sarah Foery, opened the concert with lively selections including Five Note Concerto, Hey Ho Nobody’s Home, and Heroes and Glory. Following the band, the 4th Grade Chorus, directed by Ms. Janine Miller, filled the room with beautiful harmonies as they performed When I Sing, Some Folks Do, and Listen to the Rain.

Thursday night featured another round of impressive performances. The Elementary Concert Band, again led by Ms. Foery, energized the audience with pieces like Rock-A My World, A Song for Friends, and Dragon Slayer. The 5th Grade Chorus, under Ms. Miller’s direction, closed the Trimmer Elementary concert series with a spirited set including America, Of Thee I Sing, Let It Be, and Movin’ Up! Movin’ On!

Congratulations to all of our talented Trimmer students and their directors for two wonderful evenings of music and celebration!

On Thursday, April 3, several West York Area High School students joined High School Counselor Ms. Kaitlin Mock for the Part of the Story field trip at Martin Library. Attending the event were Leah Harlacher, Lilah Van Vorst, Becca Viands, Addy Swartz, Angie Pagan-Romero, Jade Bradford, Cora Rodgers, and Melanie Bruder.

Students had the exciting opportunity to meet Erica B. Marcus, author of Attention Hijacked: Using Mindfulness to Reclaim Your Brain from Tech. Throughout the day, they participated in engaging workshops focused on cybersecurity and took part in a creative competition aimed at educating others about what they had learned. While our West York students didn't take home the top prize, be sure to check out the incredible billboards they designed!

Wallace Elementary students participated earlier this month in the “Kids Heart Challenge” presented by the Encore Team. Students learned CPR in physical education classes with Ms. Marisa Rice and also learned an exercise dance routine in music class with Ms. Margaret Dickerson prior to the heart event.

The day of the event, students performed their cardio dance together to music. Students then rotated through four different stations in the gymnasium.

• Station #1 - Performed the CPR steps and chest compressions on dummies
• Station #2 - Enjoyed eating heart-healthy snacks while Ms. Heidi Wolf, Media Specialist, read the book “My Heart”
• Station #3 - Colored their favorite heart hero with their Art Teacher, Ms. Alyssa Daugherty, and Ms. Sarver
• Station #4 - Performed different challenging physical exercises

The Healthy Heart poster was signed by every student who completed the life saving tasks. Wallace students did an awesome job raising over $1,350.00 for the American Heart Association.

On Friday, April 4, the Leader In Me Lighthouse Action Team hosted a special event to celebrate our 9th grade students. The Freshman Celebration Pep Rally, planned and led by student members of the Lighthouse Action Team, recognized the successful transition of our freshmen into high school. The event featured fun games, acknowledgments of student achievements, and certificates honoring participation in extracurricular activities.

Pictured to the right - Front row, L-R: Estha Blanc Doblas, Jannah Bailey, Chrisoula Stantoz, Emma Witter, and Addy Swartz. Back row, L-R: Mr. Michael Paterno, Lily Wilson, Bella Harris, Maddie Rhone, Angie Pagan-Romero, Quinton Rhone, Audriana Reinoso, Matthew Miller, and Ms. Kaitlin Mock. Not pictured: Ms. Ashley Walton.

Jack Bicher, a third grade student in Ms. Hannah Shellenberger’s class at Lincolnway Elementary, recently practiced his persuasive writing skills with a project called “I Wanna’ Pet”. Jack wrote to his parents about why a goldfish would make a good pet and his hard work paid off! He convinced his parents to let him get a pet goldfish. Unfortunately, “Jack Jr.” didn’t make it through the night, but Jack showed perseverance and his parents let him get two new fish the next day that are now happy and healthy in their new home. Way to go, Jack!

First grade Gem English Learners in Ms. Shanda Goodwin's class at Wallace Elementary are learning about how things grow and change. They started with describing what an insect is, and then they created their own insects. Students needed to include three body parts, two antennae, and six legs! The Gems used their learning AND creativity!

For the past four years, The GIANT Company’s Feeding School Kids initiative has made a meaningful impact by helping public school districts combat childhood hunger in the communities they serve. Through the Feeding School Kids Round Up Program, GIANT and its generous customers had already contributed over $7.6 million before this year's campaign even began.

From January through April, customers were invited to round up their purchases at the register in support of this important cause — and GIANT matched all donations up to $100,000!

We’re excited to announce that, thanks to The GIANT Company and your incredible generosity, the West York Area School District received $2,508.77 to help provide nutritious meals to students in need.

Together, we're making a difference — one meal at a time.

The West York Wrestling Program hosted its first ever Bald & Fat Classic on April 5th at the West York Area High School. This tournament is a fun and competitive way for former wrestlers to get back on the mat while giving back to the wrestling community. Saturday featured both male and female wrestlers from ages 19 to 62.

The Bald & Fat Classic was founded by West York alumni Joe Musti and has helped raise almost

$200,000 for local high school wrestling programs. The West York Wrestling Program is extremely

honored to have been able to host this event and was able to raise enough funds to send several of their high school wrestlers to camp this summer.

In addition to a great day of wrestling, a few of our very own Bulldogs took home the honor of being

named Bald & Fat Champions. Athletic Director, Mr. Brandon Fuhrman, took first place in the 200 lb. Dead Division and Athletic Clerk, Mr. Brock Asper, finished on top in the 160 lb. Past Your Prime Division.

The event was filled with several former West York wrestling alumni both wrestling and volunteering. Current wrestlers also got in on the action as West York Senior, Noah Steigleman, officiated and Llevy Bray (10th grade), Carson Loucks (9th grade), Ava Long (5th Grade), and Luke Steigleman (5th grade) helped run the tables for the event.

Does your family drink soda or other canned beverages? Do you use soup or other foods with metal pull tabs? Throughout April and May, the Middle School is collecting can tabs to support the Hershey Ronald McDonald House.

This marks the seventh year our school has participated in this initiative! The Ronald McDonald House provides a comforting place for families to stay while their child receives medical care. The collected can tabs are recycled to help fund this vital service for families in need.

Please save the tabs from soda cans, soup cans, and other pull-tab containers and drop them off at the Middle School by the last day of school, May 30th.

For any questions, contact our Middle School Reading Specialist, Ms. Jill Raudensky, via email at jeraudensky@wyasd.org. Thank you for your support!

With our March spring concerts behind us, April and May bring even more opportunities to enjoy the musical talents of our students! Mark your calendars for the upcoming concert dates below and join us in celebrating their hard work. Our students are excited to share their music with the community!

• Friday, April 25 - HS/MS Spring Jazz Concert - High School Auditorium - 7:00 - 9:00 PM
• Friday, May 9 - HS Band Spring Concert - 7:00 - 9:00 PM
• Tuesday, May 13 - Cherry Lane Box Lunch Revue - 11:00 AM - 1:00 PM MS/HS Jazz Bands perform downtown at Cherry Lane
• Thursday, May 15 - MS/HS Pops Concert - Middle School Auditorium - 6:30 - 8:30 PM
• Wednesday, May 21 - MS Band Concert - Middle School Auditorium - 6:30 - 7:30 PM

Our next Bulldog Pantry distribution date is Wednesday, April 16th from 5:00 - 6:00 PM. Distribution is from West York Area High School at Door 14 (located by the tennis courts).

The Bulldog Pantry is a non-perishable food center located in the High School, open to ALL District families, Kindergarten through 12th-grade.

*No registration necessary: fresh food while supplies last*

If you are interested in donating to the Bulldog Pantry or have any questions, please contact Ms. Amanda Burt, Life Skills Teacher, via email at amburt@wyasd.org.

April is here, and it’s the perfect time to spring into savings with First Capital Federal Credit Union! This month, we’re celebrating Financial Literacy Month and encouraging students to start saving for their future with the Bulldog Buck$ program at The Bulldog Branch of First Capital Federal Credit Union. We’re here to help students learn essential money management skills that will last a lifetime.

This month, we’re offering a special spring promotion: When your child opens a new membership with First Capital in April, they’ll be entered to win a $25.00 gift card! Don’t miss out! At First Capital we can help your child take control of their financial future. Whether they’re saving for something special, building a budget, or learning financial independence, the Bulldog Branch is here to guide them every step of the way.

Did you know that your entire family can join First Capital Federal Credit Union? Why not make it a

family affair this spring? Join together and start building a brighter financial future as a family. We would be thrilled to have you as part of the First Capital family!

Do you have any questions about First Capital membership or the Bulldog Buck$ program? Stop by the Bulldog branch on Tuesdays or Wednesdays from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. and talk to Lily or

Kayla to learn more about the account opening process. Or feel free to reach out to School

Branch Coordinator Kayla Weaver by email at kaylaw@firstcapitalfcu.com for more information.

Are you a parent of a college student? If so, your child may qualify to substitute teach while on break!

An LEA (Local Education Agency) may allow a prospective teacher to serve as a substitute if the individual:

• Is currently enrolled in a Pennsylvania-approved college or university educator preparation program;
• Has completed at least 60 semester hours or equivalent; and
• Meets all statutory requirements related to clearances, citizenship, and good moral character.

The individual may teach a maximum of 20 days per school year.

For further information or questions, please contact our Human Resources Department at kljacoby@wyasd.org or 717-792-2796.

APRIL 11, 2025

9th/10th Grade:

Manny Toucet

For collaborating well with a partner on a project!

11th/12th Grade:

Felicity Sipe

For making homeroom fun!

Faculty/Staff:

Ms. Katie Lalic

For always being the first to step up and cover for a co-worker!

Stay abreast of the Athletic Department's weekly news with the Bulldog Breakdown, a weekly recap of the prior week's athletic accomplishments and the upcoming sporting events.

Simply click the Bulldog Breakdown bar below to view the latest issue!

• Tuesday, April 15, Communication and Engagement Committee (CEC) Meeting (5:30 PM)
• Tuesday, April 15, Board Voting Meeting (6:30 PM)
• Thursday, April 17, Professional Learning Day - No school for students
• Friday, April 18, Spring Break - All Buildings & Grounds are Closed
• Monday, April 21, Snow Make-Up Day - School is in Session
• Thursday, April 24, Off to Kindergarten (5:30 PM for 2025-2026 kindergarten students)
• Friday, April 25, HS/MS Spring Jazz Concert (7:00 PM at the High School)
• Saturday, April 26, Prom (6:00 PM)
• Wednesday, April 30, Guide to Middle School (6:30 PM for current 5th grade students)

Make-up days for the inclement weather closures are as follows:

• For Thursday, February 6th - the make-up day will be in June for teachers only.

The May Work Session and the May Board Meeting will be combined into one meeting due to the May 20th Primary Election. The meeting will take place on Tuesday, May 13th at 7:00 PM

It's eggroll time!! Please consider supporting the Class of 2026 while also stocking up on egg rolls just in time for the end of the year! All orders (and payment) are due by 4/14/25. Items will be ready for pick up on 5/12/25 from 3:00-4:00 PM at the High School. Please make all checks payable to 'WY Class of 2026'. Thank you!

Click the egg rolls to the right to place your order.

Check out two upcoming fundraisers to benefit our West York Football Booster Club.

Purse Bingo

• Sunday, April 27th - Doors Open at 1:30 PM
• Shiloh Fire Hall
• Tickets: $25
• Contact Jess @ 223-281-4262

The content below was in last week's issue but it bears repeating as a reminder or for anyone who may have missed it. If pertinent details of an article are changed, we will pull the article above this section and highlight any changes.

Kindergarten registration is now open for the 2025-2026 school year! If you are a West York Area School District resident and your child will be 5 years old by September 1, 2025, we invite you to begin the registration process now. Simply visit the Registration page of our website by clicking the red link bar below. On that page, click on the clipboard icon "Register a Student" to begin the registration process. Once you have completed the online registration, please call Wallace Elementary at 717-764-6869 to schedule your child's kindergarten screening appointment.

We can't wait to start meeting our newest little Bulldogs!

Check out the flyers linked below to learn about the opportunities being offered through MANTEC's free summer programs. The MFG U camps (one at York College, one at Millersville University) are for rising HS seniors. The MFG Access (in partnership with Thaddeus Stevens College at PA CareerLink in Lancaster) program is for 18-24 year olds.

Please reach out to Cindi Moses at cindi@mantec.org with any questions!

Exciting news! Two new opportunities were added last week to the Community Corner page on the District’s website. Be sure to check them out!

York East Rotary & Safety Town

* Safety Town 2025 Summer Camp (2 Sessions) ages 3-8

* Monday - Thursday - 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM

YWCA York Synchro Team

* Free beginner clinic - Boys & Girls ages 6+

* May 10, 2025 - 1:30 - 3:30 PM

Visit the Community Corner page to stay up to date on community events, programs, and resources available to our students and families.

Using Your Computer to Report an Absence

MUST be completed within 3 days of the absence

From the District WEBSITE Attendance Page

➔ Scroll down to the vertical gray boxes just under the changing highlight pictures at the top of the District website's home page

➔ Click on the Attendance box

➔ Underneath Online Attendance click on Sapphire Community Portal Login

➔ On the login page put in your username and password (this must be set up prior to you using this page)

➔ On the left side is your student(s) name(s)

• If you have multiple students, please make sure you are at the correct student

➔ Under MY BACKPACK click on Student Data Forms (making sure it is the correct student)

➔ Underneath On Demand Forms click on Digital Excuse Blank

➔ Fill out the entire form and upload any doctor’s notes into this form

➔ Make sure to click on SUBMIT so your form is sent directly to the attendance secretary

Using the District App from Your Cell Phone to Report an Absence

MUST be completed within 3 days of the absence

➔ From the WYASD App Home Page, click on the More waffle icon on the right side of the screen

➔ Click on the Sapphire Portal icon on the right side of the screen

➔ Log in to Sapphire

➔ If you have multiple students, make sure you are in the correct student’s account

➔ At the bottom of the screen there is a purple circle with 3 white lines, click on the circle

➔ Click on the green circle marked Student Data Forms

➔ Underneath On Demand Forms click on Digital Excuse Blank

➔ Fill out the entire form and upload any doctor’s notes into this form

➔ Make sure to click on SUBMIT so your form is sent directly to the attendance secretary

If you are new to West York, you might be saying, "What is a Golden Bulldog Pass?" Exclusively for West York Area School District residents 65 and older, the Golden Bulldog Pass is valid for one admission to all District-sponsored events, including athletic events (excluding playoff events), fine arts events such as concerts, plays, and musicals, and special invitation-only events for senior citizens.

Our annual "Lunch and a Show" is our most popular invitation-only event and seating is limited! So, don't miss out on this and other opportunities! To learn more, please click the Golden Bulldog Pass card to the left.

Be sure to Like/Follow us on Facebook and Instagram so you don't experience FOMO - Fear of Missing Out! Simply click the images below.