Avonworth School District News

On April 22, 2025, the Avonworth School District community gathered for an exciting open house event at Avonworth High School and Middle School.

The evening marked the celebration of the completion of a significant construction project that has transformed the school into a state-of-the-art facility.

Attendees had the opportunity to explore the incredible new spaces designed to enhance learning for our students.

The event featured wonderful performances by the Jazz Band, mini performances from the spring musical Sweeney Todd, and even student assistants to answer questions about the new spaces. The Lopes Lounge Coffee Shop was also available for guests to enjoy.

It was truly an evening to remember, and we are grateful for the ongoing support of the Avonworth community.

A special thank you to our Avonworth School Board for their vision and leadership in making these beautiful, state-of-the-art spaces a reality and to everyone who attended and helped make this event a success!

The Avonworth School District is proud to announce the 2025 Avonworth Hall of Distinction class! This year’s inductees were selected from a strong group of nominations submitted by community members, each reflecting the remarkable impact and legacy of those honored.

Colonel E. Michael Fincke

Former member of the Avonworth community who now resides in Texas

The late Lance Corporal Patrick B. Kenny

Avonworth High School graduate

Ms. Alison McMutrie

Avonworth High School graduate

Ms. Jamie McMutrie

Avonworth High School graduate

The late Mr. David Schrecengost

Former Avonworth High School teacher

The Avonworth Hall of Distinction recognizes alumni, community members, and school district employees who have demonstrated exceptional achievement in their careers or service to the Avonworth community.

Inductees were honored and officially inducted into the Hall of Distinction at a dinner event on April 24, 2025.

Congratulations to Colonel Mike Fincke, Lance Corporal Patrick Kenny, Jamie and Alison McMutrie, and David Schrecengost!

For more information about each inductee, click here.

Both our MS 6th Grade Band, under the direction of Mr. Ziccardi, and the HS Wind Ensemble, led by Mr. Neville, recently participated in PMEA’s Music Performance Assessment — and both earned a “Superior” rating, the highest possible honor.

Adjudicated by three collegiate music professors, our talented students performed on Pittsburgh’s most prestigious stage: Heinz Hall. Following their performance, they were treated to a special clinic with select conductors and musicians from the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra.

This marks the third consecutive year of a Superior rating for the 6th Grade Band and the highest score ever for the HS Wind Ensemble!

Six talented Avonworth students had the honor of participating in the 2025 PMEA District 1 Elementary Band Festival! Selected by director recommendation, these young musicians joined top students from across several local counties for a day of collaboration, growth, and outstanding performance.

Representing Avonworth were:

Clark Laird – Percussion (5th Grade)

Vincenzo Pascuzzi – French Horn (5th Grade)

James Leuenberger – Euphonium (5th Grade)

Elise Coast – Clarinet (6th Grade)

Lydia Klein – Trumpet (6th Grade)

Veda Shook – Trombone (6th Grade)

We are so proud of these students for representing our district with talent and dedication!

Congratulations to the incredible cast, crew, and directors of our spring musical, Sweeney Todd!

From the first note to the final curtain call, the production captivated audiences and showcased the extraordinary talent, hard work, and creativity of everyone involved.

Thank you to everyone who supported the show — from parents and volunteers to our loyal audience members. And once again, a standing ovation to our outstanding performers and crew. Bravo!

Avonworth Middle School 8th grader Kate Jeon has been named a National Silver Medalist in the Scholastic Art & Writing Awards, one of the most prestigious student recognition programs in the country. Kate earned the national honor for her Personal Essay & Memoir piece titled “As Seasons Pass By.”

As a result of her outstanding achievement, Kate has been invited to attend the national awards ceremony at Carnegie Hall in New York City this June.

Each year, the Scholastic Art & Writing Awards program celebrates exceptional student writing across grades 7–12 in categories such as flash fiction, humor, informational writing, and drama.

Earlier this year, several Avonworth Middle and High School students were recognized at the regional level with Honorable Mention, Silver Key, and Gold Key awards. Gold Key entries advanced to the national level, where Kate’s work stood out among thousands of submissions.

Congratulations to Kate and all of our talented student writers for their creativity, dedication, and success!

Eight talented students from Avonworth High School took on the Student Sustainability Design Challenge through the Consortium for Public Education, designing a local project that supports the UN’s Sustainability Goals!

Focusing on Quality Education and Climate Action, the team researched Avonworth’s current recycling efforts and is collaborating with stakeholders to enhance the school's recycling program. They proudly presented their work in a poster session, showcasing their commitment to a greener future!

Pictured: Tessa Burens, Ella Machen, Elena Zimmerman, and Abdul Wahab Shuaib

Not pictured: Grace Engel, Abdul Basit Kaijie, Naina Mason, and Noah Quinn

On Earth Day, Avonworth High School's Key Club teamed up with Ohio Township Parks & Recreation and Road Departments to help beautify our community.

Students spent the morning cleaning up areas along Mt. Nebo Road, Red Mud Hollow Road, and the park-and-ride near I-79. Their efforts made a meaningful impact and helped keep our district looking its best.

Thank you to all who participated in making a difference this Earth Day!

Bird A Palooza was a soaring success at APC!

This spring, APC Kindergarteners became budding ornithologists—studying birds, identifying local species, and expressing their learning through art and dance.

APC participated in the Artist in Residency Program through the Pittsburgh Center for Art and Media, bringing two amazing artists into the classroom. Their guidance helped transform student discoveries into beautiful installation art and movement pieces.

With support from Fern Hollow Nature Center and a grant from the Avonworth Fund for Educational Excellence, students also experienced hands-on bird watching and feeding.

The celebration wrapped with Bird A Palooza—an evening full of dance, art, and proud little scientists!

In March, Dr. Licia Lentz from AIU trained Impact Club members to lead Restorative Justice Circles, fostering trust and community through student-led conversations.

As part of their Eradicate Hate project, they’ll guide 7th graders in meaningful discussions—first shared at the Eradicate Hate Summit at Acrisure Stadium.

From fun icebreakers to thought-provoking questions, these circles empower students to listen, learn, and lead with respect.

Bavly Naklah proudly represented the Avonworth School District at the LLS Student Visionaries Grand Finale event at Acrisure Stadium.

Over seven weeks, teams of young leaders worked tirelessly to raise funds in support of the fight against blood cancer. Bavly’s team made a lasting impact, contributing thousands to the cause.

Student Visionaries of the Year is more than just a competition—it’s a movement driven by passionate students determined to create a world without blood cancers.

In March, our 3rd grade students celebrated Women in Healthcare with an inspiring event.

Miss Meinert and Nurse Megan Hewko teamed up with 3rd grade teachers to create a special presentation featuring nursing educators, flight nurses, and hospital HR professionals.

After learning about exciting careers in healthcare, students joined a hands-on RIASEC party filled with fun and learning. Activities included mock HR interviews, CPR basics, pulse finding, making thank-you cards for healthcare heroes, and even exploring how germs spread!

What a magical evening we had at our elementary building for Art and Literacy Night!

Students showcased a year’s worth of woodsy-themed artwork inspired by the great outdoors. In addition, families enjoyed hands-on literacy activities based on the book, The Wild Robot! It was a fun, creative night full of imagination and joy!

Thanks to everyone who made it special!

Odyssey of the Mind is all about imaginative problem-solving, collaboration, and thinking outside the box—and this year, Avonworth students rose to the challenge in a big way.

Four teams—two from the Elementary School and two from the Middle School—competed at the Regional Tournament on March 8 at Keystone Oaks. One team even advanced to the State Finals in the Poconos on April 5.

Meet the Teams

Division 1, Problem 3 – Team Dragonfly
Vada Panuski, Carolyn Dening, Abe Outly, Vinny Pascuzzi, Mason Creagh, Eli Fussner, Fiona Watts
-Third Place Finish at Regionals
-Advanced to State Finals

After receiving valuable feedback from the judges at Regionals, Team Dragonfly revised their solution and took it all the way to States, where they earned an impressive sixth-place finish against top teams from across Pennsylvania.

Division 2, Problem 3 – Team Jelly Bean Ants
Rosa Herrle, Adalynn Ficca, James Manning, Melody Salem, Jaiden Main, Abby Scott-Snavely, Emilia Toliver
-Third Place Finish at Regionals

Division 2, Problem 5 – Team Honey Money Bees
Gabby Kuzma, Skylar Patberg, Gabe Van Mater, Evia Shea, Lily Michael, Lydia Klein
-Fourth Place Finish at Regionals

Division 1, Problem 1 – Team Hoppy Grasshoppers
Rufus Buffington, Drew Boyd, August Teague, Lulu Shea, Cassidy Magnotte, Lydia Ficca, Taylor Kuzma
-Ninth Place Finish at Regionals

We are incredibly proud of the hard work, originality, and teamwork shown by all four teams. Every prop, costume, and script was entirely student-created—no outside assistance allowed.

That’s the heart of Odyssey of the Mind: students using their creativity and collaboration to bring their ideas to life.

JAM #BeTheKindKid sponsored an inspiring Entrepreneur Night at the AES cafeteria.

Forty-four creative students from AES & APC designed, displayed, and sold their own products—showcasing talent and hard work. Each young entrepreneur chose to give back by donating a portion of their proceeds to Emsworth Meals on Wheels.

Together, they raised an amazing $944 to support local seniors.

April is the Month of the Young Child, a time to recognize the importance of early childhood education and honor our youngest learners.

In celebration, Avonworth Primary Center hosted a special event on Thursday, April 10, bringing together students, educators, and community partners for a morning of learning.

In collaboration with Robert Morris University, the Children’s Center of Emsworth, and Trying Together, the Primary Center welcomed Pre-K and Kindergarten students to participate in a variety of hands-on activities inspired by the 2025 PA One Book selection, Arlo Draws an Octopus by Lori Mortensen.

Kindergarten classes from Mrs. Simmons and Mrs. Filiaggi joined new Pre-K friends for a story-centered celebration, where Early Childhood Education students from RMU helped facilitate engaging stations in science, art, and music. Each activity brought elements of the story to life and encouraged creativity, exploration, and collaboration.

The day was filled with smiles and imagination—truly a celebration of early childhood at its best!

Pittsburgh Moonshot Museum paid a visit to APC’s first graders for a very special presentation about space and space travel. Students learned what it takes to travel into space and got a chance to see some first hand experiments related to space travel.

For the past 6 weeks, APC first graders have been Investigating space and space travel. They have explored the sun, moon, planets, constellations, and travel into space. The Moonshot Museum’s presentation enhanced their learning and understanding of these concepts.

The visit from Moonshot was made possible because of a grant from the Avonworth Fund for Educational Excellence. This year the AFEE has provided numerous enriching experiences for the students through the continuous support and generous funding of programs.

Congratulations to Victoria Herleman!

,She has been named Student of the Month for the cosmetology program at AW Beattie Career Center for the month of March.

Thank you to Avonworth High School student Dylan Lope for filming and producing this video about the Lopes Lounge.

We're proud of the Avonworth Class of 2025 and know they're destined to do great things. Check out our Senior Showcase to learn more about our graduating class!

• Senior Showcase - Group #1
• Senior Showcase - Group #2
• Senior Showcase - Group #3
• Senior Showcase - Group #4
• Senior Showcase - Group #5

Congratulations and best wishes to the Avonworth Class of 2025!

The ’Lopes are dominating the diamond with a 13-2 record this season!

They kicked things off strong in Myrtle Beach, going 4-1 on their spring trip. Now, they’re sitting at the top of Class 3A – Section 2, and with one more win next week against South Park, they can lock up the section title!

This team is hitting and pitching with power:

• Team Batting Average: .386

• Pitching Staff ERA: 1.9 runs per game

  
  

And big shoutout to Mason Metz, who’s currently tied for the WPIAL lead in home runs with 8!

Let’s finish strong — Go ’Lopes!

The varsity softball team is posting a winning record for the 10th consecutive season.

While in Myrtle Beach for their spring training trip, the Lady 'Lopes posted a 5-1 record and will once again earn a spot in the WPIAL playoffs.

The Avonworth varsity softball team will graduate five seniors, all of whom are starters for the team:

• Emma Obersteiner will attend the University of Maryland where she will study International Business and Public Policy.
• Myla Azen will attend Virginia Tech where she will study Business Information Technology.
• Abby Brooks will attend the University of Pittsburgh where she will study Business.
• Jayla Jones will attend Allegheny College where she will continue her softball career while studying Environmental Science.
• Sydney Savatt will continue her softball career at Division 1 Rider University where she will study Sports Marketing.

As you know, we have reached the end of the construction and renovation project. Be sure to check out the photos from the Open House at the beginning of this newsletter!

If you would like to look back on any of the information that was shared throughout the project, please visit our website.

Thank you to our faculty, staff, students, parents and community for their flexibility throughout this project!

Spring is here, and that means it’s time for one of Avonworth’s favorite traditions—Kennywood Day! Mark your calendars for Saturday, May 10th, and get ready for a fun-filled day at Pittsburgh’s iconic amusement park!

Go to our website for information on how to buy tickets!

Kindergarten registration for the 2025-2026 school year is now open!

Is your child turning five (5) years old before September 1, 2025? It's time to register for kindergarten! If you know a child in your neighborhood who will be five years old before Sept. 1, we'd appreciate if you would kindly share this information.

Registration Details:

Parents/guardians should plan to register their child in January 2025.

Visit our website for all the necessary forms and details.

Completed registration packets can be dropped off between 9:00 AM - 3:00 PM daily at APC.

We look forward to welcoming your little one to the Avonworth School District!

May is Mental Health Awareness Month. Mental health matters—this month and every month. The reality is that many people around us are struggling, and they deserve care, understanding, and support.

Mental health challenges don’t define a person; they are simply part of the human experience. By having open, compassionate conversations, we can break the stigma and create a culture of support.

Let’s stand together to ensure no one has to struggle alone. If you or someone you know needs help, Care Solace is here for you. This complimentary and confidential mental health care coordination service, provided by Avonworth School District, can help connect you with a provider quickly and easily:

📞 Call 888-515-0595 for multilingual support, available 24/7/365.

🌐 Visit www.caresolace.com/avonworth to search for a provider or click “Book Appointment” for personalized assistance via video chat, email, or phone.

You are not alone. Help is always available—don’t hesitate to reach out.

Avonworth School District is hiring for several positions. Visit our website for a full list of job openings. Applicants should contact Kristen Butler at kbutler@avonworth.k12.pa.us or visit our website for more information and to apply. EOE