A Farewell Message from Superintendent Michael Calla
My heart is full as I write this message to you today. As I head into retirement, I do so with great pride and much gratitude. As I saw the joy on the faces of each graduate from the Class of 2021 and their family and friends last week, I knew, as always, that we had done our job. Every student who walked across that stage is already a success story thanks to our combined efforts. It takes a K through 12 team, a supportive community, and amazing students to make that success a reality.
Together, we have helped our District make big strides during the years. From being the first Pennsylvania district to become a K-12 Middle States Accreditated institution, to being home to two Federal NCLB Blue Ribbon schools, two Pennsylvania Distinguished Title 1 schools and a Governor's Award winning elementary school we have MUCH to be proud of.
Sharon has lead the way in Mercer County in obtaining Dual Enrollment programming for our students with local Colleges and Universities, has consistently offered the most Advanced Placement courses annually, and in working with our higher education partners in more exciting programs than can be mentioned in this short letter.
We have also been blessed to be able to maintain an intense focus on literacy and on improving our student's reading and writing skills. With our additional student supports, we have also been able to continue our focus of giving our students a hand when they need it and in keeping kids in school.
SCSD has also embraced new ways for students and the community to thrive by working with our fellow school districts and community organizations to provide services that reach more children and families in off-school hours including after-school and summer programs. In addition, our partnerships with the E-Academy and Mercer County Career Center offer our students outside of the classroom and state-of-the-art training and opportunities for future careers.
Know that we have done this together: our staff, our families, our students and our community. When we work together Sharon is unstoppable!
To our teachers, librarians, nurses and counselors: Thank you for the hard work, late nights, and deep caring you exhibit each day to educate our children and help them grow.
To our building leaders and administrators: Thank you for your tireless work to provide our children and staff with the relationships, the programs and the environment to prosper.
To our instructional aides, clerical and support staff: You are the unsung heroes, but not forgotten heroes. We know how hard you work, how much you care and how lucky we are to have you.
To our bus drivers, crossing guards, food service, security, maintenance and custodial, and technology teams: Thank you. The best instruction in the world means nothing if children can't get to school safely, get the nutritional fuel they need for success, and learn in safe, comfortable, cutting edge surroundings.
To our families: Thank you for entrusting us with your children, and for being our daily partners in giving them the tools they need to grow and prosper.
To our School Board: Thank you for the confidence you have shown in me, your vision and counsel. The Sharon City School District is built on the traits of Tradition, Innovation and Excellence, each of which you inspire in your leaders.
Finally, to our students: I marvel at what you have taught me. Thank you for allowing me to be part of your journeys. I could not be more proud of all of you!
So, I end this letter the way I began, full of pride and gratitude for the great gift I have been given, to work in education for these past 41 years. Whether here in Sharon City or at St. Joseph's, I have truly received more than I have given. I leave knowing that the work is unfinished, but I have every confidence in the staff and community that the Tigers are in good hands and will be successful in all they do. Thank you all for the gift of allowing me to be a part of you.
Michael Calla, Superintendent