Welcome Back Waverly Families!
Let's Go, 2026-2027
Dear Waverly Families,
The most wonderful time of the year is just about here! We are very excited to start the 2026-2027 school year. Our faculty and staff anxiously await the arrival their new students. I hope you and your children had a joyful, restful, and rejuvenating summer! The first day of school is on Tuesday, September 8, 2026. We have been busy preparing for an amazing school year filled with learning, growth, and a FOCUSED instructional program.
At Waverly Elementary we believe in the power of partnership between home and school. Together, we can ensure that every Comet soars to new heights. Thank you for your continued support and commitment to making Waverly Elementary School the best it can be. We are ready for the 2026–2027 school year with enthusiasm and dedication!
Abington Heights: where students are the focus and excellence is the standard.
Mrs. Leonard
Mrs Shoemaker
Mrs. Shoemaker joins Waverly Elementary as our MTSS / Math Interventionist from Newton Ransom Elementary where she was a 2nd grade teacher. As a resident of Waverly, she is excited to work with the students and family from the area in which she calls home.
With 24 years of classroom experience ranging from high school to first grade, Mrs. Shoemaker is eager to share her knowledge, as well as learn and grow in this new position. Her favorite part of teaching is thinking outside the box to try new approaches that help students build confidence and a love for learning. That moment when something clicks for a child, and they are excited about what they are capable of doing, is really what it's all about!
Her three children are proud Abington Heights Comets as well, two of whom are now in college, and one who is a freshman at the high school. In her free time, you can find Mrs. Shoemaker at a sporting event for one of her children, as all three are athletes, reading a book, or enjoying our beautiful community on a stroll around town. If she had to pick her superpower, it would definitely be her kindness.
Mrs. Shoemaker is happy to join such a great educational family at Waverly Elementary and is thankful to be a part of such an amazing team!
Mrs. Strempek
Mrs. Lauren Strempek is absolutely thrilled to be here at Waverly Elementary as a 2nd Grade teacher for the 2026-2027 school year!
She is a graduate of the Abington Heights School District and cannot wait to teach in the community that shaped her. She grew up right here in Clarks Summit and has both her bachelors and masters degrees from Marywood University. Before joining the Waverly team Lauren spent several years teaching 4th grade at St. Clare's/St. Paul’s. You might also spot her on the courts, as she serves as the Junior High Girls Basketball coach for the district!
On a personal note, Lauren and her husband have two young daughters who are also starting their own journeys in Abington Heights schools this fall. She knows firsthand how exciting and meaningful these early school years are for a family. Lauren is looking forward to an incredible year of growth, discovery, and fun for the students at Waverly Elementary.
Mr. Jason Reeser- Maintenance Lead
Mr. Jason Reeser joins the maintenance staff at Waverly Elementary this year. He previously worked for the AH District at the high school and field house. He is putting the finishing touches on the building and grounds so things are in tip top shape for all of our little comets!
Why Daily Attendance Matters
✅ Missed Lessons = Missed Opportunities
Even one day out can mean falling behind on key lessons, activities, and class discussions.
📈 School Today, Success Tomorrow
Consistent attendance is one of the strongest predictors of academic progress—and opens doors to future opportunities.
💪 Resilience in Action
Being present every day builds habits of responsibility, perseverance, and grit.
👯 Stronger Friendships
Daily attendance helps students form strong social bonds and feel more connected at school.
🧠 Healthier Habits
A consistent routine supports mental and physical wellness—for kids and families.
Need support getting your child to school?
We’re here to help. If your child is hesitant to come to school, reach out to Mrs. Leonard at (570)585-6305 or email leonardc@ahsd.org.
Let’s make 2025–2026 a year of growth, connection, and daily learning—for every student, every day.