Welcome back everyone!

The new school year has officially begun with successful Meet the Teacher events last week.  We are enthusiastic that this will be a great year!

Our dress code continues, which has been proven to be a positive change!  The dress code has created an environment that focuses on student learning throughout the school day with fewer distractions.

Also continuing are our efforts to provide a safe environment for our students. 

Nowadays, threats towards schools, students, administrators and other staff members are vastly increasing.  The Educators School Safety Network reports it has recorded 50 threats a day on average since the tragedy at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School, Florida.  That number, compared to the previous average of 10 threats per day is staggering!

This nationwide epidemic is breeding fear, anxiety and frustration into everyone.  And social media and other electronic means do not help the situation.  We here at Shamokin Area School District want to reassure all parents and guardians that we are taking every precautionary measure to protect and defend the safety of our students.

Children are frightened.  Parents are angry.  Sadly all children experience fears, but they should be able to feel safe in school.  They should also have a stress free zone to learn but threats affect education by monopolizing classroom teaching time and wasting costly resources. 

What are we as a school doing?

In order to accomplish this we have hired armed guards and additional security, made building improvements, installed metal detectors, updated security cameras, implemented many backpack policies, educating students about bullying, implemented a dress code policy, training teachers and staff, increasing area police presence in our schools, etc.

Now, what can you do?

According to Elizabeth Englander, Professor of Psychology & Director if Massachusetts Aggression Reduction Center, Bridgewater State University, a few things parents/guardians can do to help are:

• Think critically about your child’s social media use;
• Assess your child’s relationships;
• Limit screen time;
• Consider what your child might be missing out on - e.g. Sleep, Socialization;
• Talk with your child.

If you suspect your child or someone you know is having emotional struggles, please say something.  Our school counselors can be contacted at the appropriate building if you would like them to speak with a student.  Their information is:

Mr. Weller at the MHS: (570)648-5731, extension 3509

Mrs. McCabe at the MHS: (570)648-5731, extension 3507

Mrs. Fetterman at the Elem/Annex: (570)648-5721, extension 2728

Or you can contact the Northumberland County Behavioral Health / Intellectual & Developmental Services at (570)495-2040 or checkout their website at https://www.norrycopa.net/index.php/bhids/.

We are excited to formally welcome our new Superintedent, Chris J. Venna.  Mr. Venna has worked within the District for the last 14 years as the Middle/High School Principal.  Mr. Zack left big shoes to fill but we are confident Mr. Venna is up for the challenge and will do great!

Congratulations Mr. Venna!

A message from our new Superintendent:

It is a great pleasure to welcome you to the Shamokin Area School District.  As your new Superintendent, I am grateful for the opportunity to lead the District as it is one of the most vital components in our community.  With that being said, we strive for our students to be well-rounded individuals with rich experiences not only in their academics but also in music, the arts, athletics, and other after-school programs.  The Board of Directors, administration and staff work diligently in support of a healthy learning environment and positive educational experience for all Shamokin Area students.  Our staff at Shamokin Area stands ready to work with parents and community members in building partnerships that benefit the most important facet of our district, the children.  As I enter my fifteenth year in the District (and first as Superintendent), I’m convinced that our district and community has special qualities that can benefit each and every child.  We will work tirelessly to become the best that we can be as a school district so that our students benefit every day from being an “Indian”.  I encourage you to visit our schools to see firsthand the quality education that we provide on a daily basis.  If you have a question or concern, please do not hesitate to communicate with our staff. 

Thank you for your support and best wishes to all families for a great school year.

Sincerely,

Chris J. Venna

Superintendent