ExCEL

GROWTH
Dear ExCEL Students,
The 2024-25 school year has been a huge growth year for me. How about you? I learned how to perform a new job well and how to interact more effectively with all different kinds of people. Fortunately, I also learned that I love my job! I’m grateful for the opportunity to do something that is meaningful and fulfilling. That got me thinking about my students and their education. I know sometimes we want to give up, but ultimately, a solid education will not only provide a high school diploma, it also gives us choice and opportunity to have meaningful careers instead of just jobs we have to go to every day. So, finish strong! Achieve top grades. Don’t accept mediocrity. Think about your future goals and make them happen. And when all that is done, take a rest and enjoy your summer break!
Online Learning Assistant Principal
STUDENTS OF THE MONTH ~ MAY
Malachi Broden
Cedar Cliff ~ Grade 11
Malachi has been named Student of the Month for his dedication to learning and contributions to the ExCEL community. His strong work ethic often exceeds expectations. He effectively communicates his needs for support and approaches challenges with positivity and resilience, inspiring others. His academic success reflects his commitment, and he consistently helps classmates, fostering a collaborative atmosphere that benefits everyone. Malachi's hard work enhances his own experience and uplifts his peers, making him a valued community member.
👏
Kingsley Spoonhour
Hillside ~ Grade 1
King has overcome challenges this year and has flourished online! He is in zoom meetings at LEAST once a week and consistently asks for help when it is needed. King is very excited to meet new people and make friends in every ExCEL team member!👏
SUMMER CREDIT PROGRAM
FEE SCHEDULE
Credit Acceleration
0.5 credit - $200 per course
1.0 credit - $300 per course
Co-op, Schoology, Aquaponics - $130
Credit Recovery
0.5 credit - $175 per course
1.0 credit - $250 per course
Co-op Experience - $130
HOW CAN I MAKE MY PAYMENT?
Families have two options to pay in full by the deadlines provided.
Online through LINQ: https://www.wssd.k12.pa.us/StudentAccounts.aspx
Personal check: If you choose to pay by personal check, please print your completed form response, attach your check made out to West Shore School District, and submit it to your guidance office secretary by the specified dates.
WHEN IS PAYMENT DUE?
Please make sure to complete your payment by the specified due date, as we cannot accept late payments. The total amount is due by the following dates:
Acceleration: Wednesday, May 21 at 12:00 PM
Credit Recovery: Thursday, June 12 at 3:00 PM
CREDIT ACCELERATION COURSES are available for current high school students interested in taking a course for the first time for original course credit.
CREDIT RECOVERY COURSES are available for current high school students to retake a class previously taken but failed by the student.
TESTING
As we approach the PSSAs and Keystone Exams, we’d like to take a moment to share some tips on how to get ready.
STUDENTS
These upcoming exams are your opportunity to demonstrate the hard work and commitment you've shown all year. Keep in mind:
You are ready: Your teachers have provided you with the knowledge and skills necessary for success.
Give it your all: Concentrate on showcasing your understanding and applying what you’ve learned.
Stay optimistic: Trust in your abilities and approach the exams with confidence and calmness.
PARENTS
Your involvement is vital to your child's success. Here are some ways you can assist:
Foster a positive mindset: Remind your child that you believe in their capabilities and appreciate their efforts.
Encourage a growth mindset: Help them see that challenges are chances to learn and grow.
Maintain a healthy routine: Ensure they get enough sleep and have a nutritious breakfast on test days.
Review test-taking strategies: Go over and practice effective techniques for managing time and tackling questions.
Stay in touch with teachers/staff: Feel free to reach out if you have any questions or need extra support.
Together, we can make a difference! By collaborating as a team ~ students, parents, and teachers ~ we can create a nurturing environment that enhances the testing experience.
COUNSELOR CORNER
School's wrapping up soon, so it's time to think about summer and next year! If I reached out to you about summer classes, make sure to sign up using the Google form link. Summer is a great chance to earn extra credits or catch up on any you missed. Feel free to ask if you have any questions about summer school or the classes available!
School Counselor
ONLINE LEARNING SUPPORTS
Ms. Peters
Hey everyone, it’s crunch time! We’re almost there, so make sure to wrap up your assignments to advance to the next grade. If you need some help staying on track, here are a few tips:
1) Listen to some background music related to your subject. For instance, if you’re studying early American history, try some old western sounds. If you’re diving into prehistoric life, put on some Jurassic Park vibes. It might sound a bit goofy, but it really helps!
2) Try parallel play! Connect with another student online—this could be a sibling, a friend, or even a parent. Set up a Zoom call and work together. Having someone else around can really boost your productivity and give you a chance to share ideas.
3) Treat yourself along the way! Finished a quiz? Reward yourself with a little snack! Completed a project? Enjoy an episode of your favorite show! You get to choose what motivates you!
Online Learning Advisor
717-938-9577 ext 43087
Mr. Ketterman
Mr. Ketterman’s Zoom Link and Office Hours
https://wssd-k12-pa-us.zoom.us/j/83668397353?pwd=PNyvj3Hdp0yhWrnGoE669Q52xlGhpU.1
Office hours are from 11:00 am to 1:00 pm Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday
The saying "April showers bring May flowers" is well-known and highlights the shift from the wet days of April to the vibrant beauty of May. It serves as a reminder that challenging moments, much like rain, can result in beautiful outcomes, such as the blossoming flowers of spring. These flowers are often seen as emblems of hope and new beginnings, representing the end of winter and the onset of warmer days.
I want to take a moment to express my heartfelt gratitude for the amazing dedication and hard work you’re showing. It’s truly impressive to see how effectively you’re managing your time and balancing various responsibilities while continuing to make progress. As we approach the end of our school year and our time together, I want to emphasize the importance of fostering your relationships with family, friends, teachers, and everyone who supports you. These connections are vital, providing encouragement, guidance, and a sense of community that can help you navigate challenges.
“Many will start fast, few will finish strong” -Gary Ryan Blair
Be a finisher!
Online Learning Support
Grades 9-12
Mrs. DelBaugh
As we approach the final stretch of the school year, I want to take a moment to remind you all of the light at the end of the tunnel. We’ve come so far together, and while the finish line is almost in sight, I know it can feel like there’s still a lot to accomplish. But trust me, you are capable of pushing through and finishing strong.
Take a deep breath, stay focused, and remember that every effort you put in now is bringing you closer to the end. Whether it’s a big test, a final project, or just getting through the daily grind, know that you’ve made it this far—and that’s something to be proud of!
You’re almost there, and I’m here cheering you on every step of the way. Keep up the great work, and let’s finish this year with the same dedication and enthusiasm we started with.
You’ve got this!
Online Learning Support
Grades 9-12
SHOUT OUT
🌟 Shout Out to Our Amazing Online Teacher Monitors! 🌟
Huge shoutout to our awesome online teacher monitors! We just want to take a moment to appreciate all the hard work and dedication you put in! Your support means the world! 🎉 Your commitment to making online learning smooth, your patience with students, and your ability to keep the learning environment positive are truly commendable. We can't thank you enough for everything you do! Keep up the amazing work and continue to inspire! ✨👏 #Thanks #TeacherMonitorsAreTheBest #DedicationCounts
ONLINE LEARNING TIPS & REMINDERS
Just a quick reminder about the memo we sent out on March 31st. The last day of the academic year for the West Shore School District is June 6, 2025. For ExCEL students, we've changed the assignment deadlines to give more time for grading and resubmissions. Here are the adjusted end dates for assignments:
Grade 12: May 28th
Grades 1-11: June 4th
Keep working hard - you got this! ✨
TECHNOLOGY ISSUES GOT YOU DOWN?
Don't let any tech frustrations hold you back from learning and making progress!
If you're having trouble navigating the course, reach out!
For any technology issues with the course, reach out!
If you're experiencing unstable or no internet at home, feel free to email anyone on the ExCEL Team—WSSD is here to help you!
It's fantastic that you can access your coursework on the weekends! Just a friendly reminder to avoid saving everything for Saturday or Sunday night. Keep in mind that if you run into any tech problems over the weekend, you’ll still be responsible for any unfinished work. So, be sure to plan your time effectively!
RESOURCES
CONTACTS
Mrs. Rizzardo, Online Learning Assistant Principal drizzardo@wssd.k12.pa.us
Mrs. Sanders, Online Learning Manager brsanders@wssd.k12.pa.us
Ms. Peters, Online Learning Advisor mhodson@wssd.k12.pa.us
Mrs. Cummings, Online Learning Counselor grades 9-12 mcummings@wssd.k12.pa.us
Mrs. DelBaugh, Online Learning Support grades 9-12 ldelbaugh@wssd.k12.pa.us
Mr. Ketterman, Online Learning Support grades 9-12 mketterman@wssd.k12.pa.us
Mrs. Fox, Online Learning Support grades 1-8 afox@wssd.k12.pa.us