Blue & White Newsletter - 9/5/25

On Thursday, August 28, the High School Lighthouse Team participated in a coaching day with their Franklin Covey Coach, Evette Rodriguez. The students learned important peer facilitation skills and prepared lessons to share with our 9th graders during their Transitions classes. The Teacher Advisors to the High School Lighthouse Team are: Mr. Michael Paterno, Ms. Kaitlin Mock, Ms. Ashley Walton, Ms. Katie Lalic, and Ms. Stephanie Leonard.

High School Lighthouse Team: Bailey Ebersole, Jannah Bailey, Yaidelys Cintron, Sariyah Reed, Violeta Luna Bonilla, Addy Swartz, Angie Pagan Romero, Chrisoula Stantoz, Emma Witter, Jade Bradford, and Kera King.

On Wednesday evening, the High School hosted its Back-to-School Night, welcoming families to meet teachers, explore classrooms, and learn more about the year ahead. The evening provided parents and guardians with the opportunity to hear about course expectations, upcoming projects, and ways to support students’ success.

This event concluded our District’s series of Back-to-School Nights, which brought together families across all grade levels to celebrate a strong start to the 2025–2026 school year. Thank you to all who attended our Back-to-School Nights and continue to partner with us in creating a positive learning community.

Prospect Hill Cemetery & Cremation Gardens has protected the graves and memories of our patriots since 1849. The Court of Valor Memorial continues this proud tradition of commemorating those who have served our nation. This impressive monument, which was unveiled in 2009, stands 13 feet tall and 11 feet wide and over 15,000 pounds of granite.

A massive piece of steel from the World Trade Center sits prominently on top of the monument as silent witness to the tragic events of September 11, 2001. Two granite pillars cradle the beam and create the monument’s archway, under which is suspended a 6’ x 10’ flag, intended to symbolize our nation and its defenders.

The memorial is inscribed with the names of local servicemen who have been awarded valor medals. After twelve years of inductions (through 2021), more than 400 names appear on the monument's granite columns. Honorees are remembered at the annual Court of Valor and Safekeepers Shrine Ceremonies held in September at Prospect Hill Cemetery, on the Sunday prior to 9/11.

Our distinguished West York NJROTC Unit will have the honor of providing Color Guard duties for this year's ceremony on September 7th at 1:00 PM. Please consider coming out to join us as we pay respect for those who paid the ultimate price in defense of our American way of life!

Ms. Tracy Overlander's first grade students at Wallace Elementary worked hard at their Guided Reading stations. The students rotate through these stations to 'Read to Self' and choose stories to read that interest them, 'Word Work' to practice spelling sight words, and 'Listen to Reading' where they get to read and listen to stories. The stations include hands-on experiences as well as opportunities to utilize technology, have self-choice, and learn valuable literacy skills.

Biology students in Ms. Paola Agular and Ms. Dana Kieffer's classes at the High School have been busy learning how scientists investigate questions by using the scientific method. To put their learning into action, classes designed and carried out hands-on experiments that tested everyday items in creative ways.

One class explored which brand of toilet paper could hold the most weight by carefully adding pennies until the paper gave way. Another class investigated whether the cost of soap affects the size of the bubbles it produces. In both labs, students formed hypotheses, recorded data, analyzed results, and drew conclusions—just like real scientists do.

These fun and engaging experiments not only reinforced the steps of the scientific method but also encouraged critical thinking, teamwork, and problem-solving skills. Students discovered that science is not only about memorizing facts, but also about asking questions, testing ideas, and learning from the results.

Mr. Andrew Rafferty's Robotics 2 students at the High School enjoyed a guest speaker during Friday's classes. Mr. Christian Marino, a former FIRST Robotics team member, spoke about how his robotics team experience during high school helped shape his college and career success. Now a software engineer for Lockheed Martin, he explained that participating in robotics in high school taught him how to problem solve, learn from his mistakes, and stay focused on his goals. Mr. Marino's advice to the class as they begin preparations for the upcoming robotics competitions is to "Fail fast and succeed faster." He told the students to expect challenges and obstacles along the way, and to develop a method to teach yourself how to learn and grow from the challenges.

Thank you, Mr. Marino, for sharing your high school and career experiences with us!

• PSAT: WYAHS will proctor (free of charge) the PSAT to registered JUNIORS on Wednesday, October 15th from 8:00 AM - 11:30 AM. Registration information coming soon.

• ASVAB: WYAHS will proctor to registered students the school-ASVAB on Monday, November 3rd at 8:00 AM.

• Virtual Informational FAFSA Zoom: PHEAA representative will help guide families through the FAFSA application process on Monday, September 22nd from 6:00 PM - 7:00 PM. Zoom link coming soon. This interactive Zoom will allow families to ask questions as well.

• FAFSA Completion Night: Local college financial aid representatives and our local PHEAA representative will be here to assist families in completing the FAFSA application on Monday, October 20th from 6:00 PM - 7:30 PM in the HS Media Center.

Contact your child’s HS Counselor if you have questions about any of these events.

Thank you to everyone who has already contributed to the Bulldog Pantry! Your generosity is helping us prepare for our first distribution night of the school year on Thursday, September 18. We’re grateful for the way our Bulldog family continues to show up for one another. Together, we can make sure no one goes without.

As we get closer to that date, we continue to welcome donations of pantry staples to ensure shelves are well stocked for our families.

The items most in need include:

• Canned food like fruit, vegetables, soup, tuna, stews
• Pasta & sauce
• Peanut butter & jelly
• Cereal, oatmeal, pancake mixes
• Rice, stuffing, & potato mixes
• Granola bars
• Juice
• Condiments
• Grocery store gift cards

Donations can be dropped off at the High School office during school hours. Every contribution—big or small—makes a difference in supporting our community.

If you have any questions, please visit our Bulldog Pantry webpage by clicking the Bulldog Pantry image above. You can also reach out to Ms. Amanda Burt, Life Skills Teacher, via email at amburt@wyasd.org.

Don’t miss your chance to lock in the best deal on this year’s West York Area High School yearbook! Prices will increase starting Saturday, September 13th, so now is the perfect time to purchase at the lowest price of the year. You can scan the QR Code in the image below or click the red bar below to order your yearbook.

The yearbook is a keepsake filled with memories, photos, and highlights from the entire school year—something your student will treasure for years to come. Order today to save before the price goes up!

Are you passionate about supporting students and making a difference in your community? We are currently hiring Teacher Aides, including Special Education Teacher Aides, part-time Food Services Assistants, and a full-time Health Room Nurse for the 2025–2026 school year.

These positions are a wonderful opportunity for individuals who enjoy working with children and want to contribute to their educational journey.

The teacher aide positions do not require a teaching certificate or college degree—candidates need only a high school diploma (or equivalent), along with enthusiasm, patience, and a dedication to helping students succeed. As a Teacher Aide, you’ll work closely with teachers to support instruction, assist students with daily learning activities, and help create a positive classroom environment. Special Education Teacher Aides provide valuable support to students with diverse learning needs, ensuring that every child has the opportunity to thrive.

If you’re looking for meaningful work where you can make a direct impact, we encourage you to apply! Click the image below to visit our Employment page for a full listing of current openings and access to submitting your application.

Reach out to our Human Resources Department with any questions at 717-792-2796 or via email at Employment@wyasd.org.

On Wednesday, September 24, 2025, the High School will host the Junior Achievement REAL Life Program, and we need community volunteers to help make this incredible event a success!

REAL Life is an interactive program that gives students the chance to experience real-world decision-making in areas like budgeting, career choices, housing, transportation, and more. With guidance from volunteers, students step into “adult life” for the day, making choices that impact their future and seeing firsthand how financial literacy and decision-making skills play a role in long-term success.

That’s where you come in! Volunteers are at the heart of this program, serving as mentors, facilitators, and encouragers as students navigate their simulations. No teaching experience is required — just your time, energy, and willingness to support students as they learn lessons that will last a lifetime.

By volunteering, you’ll not only make an immediate impact on our students, but also invest in the future of our community. Whether you’re a parent, business professional, retiree, or community member who cares about education, your involvement matters.

Together, we can empower our students to dream bigger, plan smarter, and prepare for success beyond high school. More information, including how to register to be a volunteer, can be found by clicking the bars below.

Join us on September 24 — your support can help change a life!

The new school year is here, and it’s the perfect time to set new goals; both in the classroom and at home. At First Capital Federal Credit Union, we’re here to help you kick off you and your child’s financial future with a limited-time certificate promotion designed to make your money work harder for you. Whether you’re an adult looking for a short-term boost or setting up your young saver for college, a first car, or another big milestone, now’s the time to start building your savings!

• 5-Month Adult Certificate Promo: Earn 5% APY* for 5 months on deposits up to $50,000.
• 8-Year Youth Certificate Promo: Youth 17 years and under can earn 10% APY** for 8 years on deposits up to $2,000.

Only Available September 1 - October 31, 2025

Have questions about becoming a First Capital member and want to get started with one of these amazing certificate rates? Stop by the Bulldog Branch on Tuesdays or Wednesdays from 11:00 AM to 2:00 PM to talk with Lily or Kayla. They’ll walk you through the process and help you open your certificate right on the spot. Can’t make it during branch hours? No problem! Contact School Branch Coordinator Kayla Weaver at kaylaw@firstcapitalfcu.com to learn more and take the first step toward a brighter financial future.

*APY=Annual Percentage Yield. 5.00% effective as of September 1, 2025 for the 5-month Share Certificate; subject to change at any time. Minimum deposit $1,000, maximum $50,000 per unique social security number. The 5-Month Promo certificate will not automatically renew and all funds from the certificate will be deposited into the primary share at the time of certificate maturity. Promotional offer cannot be combined with any other offer other than the First Capital Star Rewards 3-Star rate increase. In-branch opening only. Penalty for early withdrawal; fees could reduce earnings. Available September 1 - October 31, 2025, to consumer members only. This promotion is not available for business or youth accounts. Other restrictions may apply. Promotion may be discontinued at any time. Federally Insured by NCUA.

**APY=Annual Percentage Yield. 10.00% effective as of September 1, 2025 for the 8-Year Youth Share Certificate; subject to change at any time. Minimum deposit $500.00, maximum $2,000.00 per unique social security number. The 8-Year Youth Share Certificate will not automatically renew and all funds from the certificate will be deposited into the primary share at the time of certificate maturity. Offer cannot be combined with any other offer. Penalty for early withdrawal is 100% forfeiture of all dividends, and the certificate must be closed. The 8-Year Youth Share Certificate promo is available on Deep Sea Saver or NextGen youth accounts for members under age 18 only. Not available for custodial or rep payee accounts. Available September 1 – October 31, 2025 to consumer youth members only. Other restrictions may apply. Promotion may be discontinued at any time. Federally Insured by NCUA.

Join our Elementary PTO! Our Elementary PTO plays a vital role in supporting students and teachers through events, programs, and classroom resources. We invite all parents and guardians to get involved—whether by attending meetings, volunteering at events, participating in fundraisers or sharing ideas. Together, we can make this school year the best one yet for our kids!

Back-to-School Pizza Night Fundraiser

Skip cooking and support the West York Elementary PTO at MOD Pizza! On Wednesday, September 10, 2025, MOD will donate 20% of your bill back to our schools when you show this flyer or use the fundraiser code MODGIVES20 when ordering online or in the app.

Location: MOD Pizza – 370 Town Center Dr, York, PA 17408

Date: Wednesday, September 10, 2025

Code: MODGIVES20 for online orders

Every bite helps our students, staff, and schools thrive. Plus, our fundraiser is entered to win an extra $1,000 from MOD!

Thank you for your support!

SEPTEMBER 2025

• Tuesday, September 9, EPC (Educational Programming Committee) Meeting (5:30 PM)
• Tuesday, September 9, Work Session of the Board (7:00 PM)
• Friday, September 12, Early Dismissal
• Tuesday, September 16, Lincolnway Elementary School Picture Day
• Tuesday, September 16, Cocurricular Committee Meeting (5:30 PM)
• Tuesday, September 16, Board Voting Meeting (6:30 PM)
• Wednesday, September 17, Wallace Elementary School Picture Day
• Tuesday, September 23, Trimmer Elementary School Picture Day
• Thursday, September 25, Wellness Committee Meeting (3:15 PM)
• Friday, September 26, Early Dismissal

Have you checked out the Community page on our District website? This page is your go-to spot for helpful resources, local organizations such as Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts, and flyers for upcoming community events and programs.

Newly posted activities/event include:

• YMCA York Synchro Swim Team Presentation - The Wizard of Oz
• Healthy Kids Running Series (Pre-K - 8th Graders)

The items in this section have appeared in earlier issues but remain useful as ongoing references and resources.

We are excited to share with you the new, easy process for student school pictures with our new vendor, Heritage Imagery. As reported in last week’s Blue & White Newsletter, elementary school pictures are scheduled as follows:

• Lincolnway Elementary School - Tuesday, September 16th
• Wallace Elementary School - Wednesday, September 17th
• Trimmer Elementary School - Tuesday, September 23rd

Here’s how picture orders will work this year:

• Within 48 hours after picture day, you’ll receive a personal link by text and email (using the contact information from Sapphire)

• Once your gallery is ready, you’ll be able to view your photos before placing an order

• No presales are needed!

• You’ll also have access to 400+ background options to customize your prints

• All orders are placed directly through your personal link

It’s that simple!

Be sure to check your spam folder if you have not received your link within the 48 hours of your child's picture day. If you have any questions, please reach out directly to Heritage Imagery at info@heritage-imagery.com

Wellspan Philhaven Crisis Intervention provides urgent mental and behavioral health support, acting as a specialized response to individuals in crisis or experiencing severe emotional distress. These services include rapid assessments, stabilization, and connections to longer-term care through programs like their START program, which offers same-day access to therapy, psychiatric care, and other vital resources to prevent escalation and support recovery.

We are able to support the community through mobile crisis support 24/7, anytime/anywhere. If a student should need to be assessed either at the school or at home, you can alert the crisis team at 717-851-5320 for a counselor to come directly to them.

We are able to offer support for not only immediate needs for concerns of suicidal ideations, self-injurious behaviors, homicidal ideations, etc. but also, for any other concerns with accessing mental health care. We can assist with connecting individuals to services and place referrals to assist them.

If a student/family prefers a doctor's office setting, our walk-in center has relocated to the WellSpan START building in the Loretta Claiborne Building at 605 S George St, York, PA. We are able to see patients Mon-Fri 8:00 AM - 8:00 PM.

This is a question parents often ask. We know that mornings can be challenging for adults and children alike. Sometimes we wake and might not feel our best, but once we get moving, often we find it wasn't a problem making it through the day - at work or at school.

So, here's a great reference for assisting you in determining whether to send your child to school when they have complaints of not feeling well. You can click here for a printable copy to hang on your refrigerator or family bulletin board.

Please review the details in the graphics below carefully, as meeting all medical, dental, and vaccine requirements is essential for maintaining student health.

• Medical Exams: Regular medical evaluations help identify and address potential health concerns early.

• Dental Exams: Annual dental checkups are necessary to prevent and treat oral health issues.

• Vaccine Requirements: Keeping students up to date on vaccinations is critical for protecting them and those around them from preventable diseases.

For more details and the exam forms, click HERE.

For more details on vaccine requirements, click HERE.

Please make sure all required documentation is completed and submitted promptly. If you have any questions, please reach out to your child's school nurse.

At the November 19th Board Meeting, the 2025-2026 District Calendar was approved and you can access it from our website by clicking the bar below.

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