Blue & White Newsletter - 11/6/26
Superintendent’s First Friday Message
November is a month that invites us to reflect on gratitude, service, and the people who make a lasting difference in our lives. At West York Area School District, two important observances — Veterans Day and American Education Week — provide meaningful opportunities to recognize individuals whose dedication and commitment strengthen our schools, community, and nation.
On November 11, Veterans Day, we honor the brave men and women who have served in our Armed Forces. Their courage, sacrifice, and commitment to protecting our freedoms deserve our deepest appreciation. Within our own Bulldog community, we are fortunate to have veterans among our employees, families, neighbors, and alumni. To each of you, and to the military families who have supported you along the way, thank you for your service and sacrifice.
A special tradition of remembrance is the Field of Flags at West York Area High School, led by High School teacher Ms. Emily Rubalcaba. This meaningful tribute honors our veterans while raising funds for the Disabled American Veterans (DAV). I encourage you to drive by the High School on Veterans Day to experience this display and reflect on the sacrifices made on our behalf. My sincere thanks to Ms. Rubalcaba and everyone involved in making this tribute possible. To learn more about the history and significance of Veterans Day, visit the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs.
Later in the month, American Education Week, November 16–20, gives us another reason to celebrate — the incredible people who make public education possible. From our teachers and support staff to our bus drivers, food service teams, administrators, and those working behind the scenes, every member of our West York team plays an important role in helping students learn, grow, and succeed.
As Superintendent, I am grateful for the dedication of our employees and the strong partnerships we share with our families and community. Together, we create opportunities, inspire possibilities, and help prepare our students for bright futures. Learn more about the history and significance of American Education Week.
While Veterans Day and American Education Week recognize different forms of service, they share an important message: the greatest impact often comes from those who dedicate themselves to making life better for others.
This November, I encourage everyone in our Bulldog community to take a moment to express appreciation — whether to a veteran who has served our country or an educator or staff member who has made a difference in a student's life.
To all who serve, inspire, and make our community stronger, thank you. You are what makes West York such a special place to call home.
With sincere gratitude,
Ms. Erin Holman
Acting Superintendent of Schools
West York Area High School is getting ready to present The Marvelous Squad by Dean O’Carroll, and our Golden Bulldog Pass Holders are invited to attend with one guest at no cost.
Performance options:
Saturday, November 21 at 3:00 p.m. or 7:00 p.m.
Sunday, November 22 at 2:00 p.m.
Those attending the Sunday matinee can also stop by the Golden Bulldog Pass Holder table for a special sweet treat.
RSVP here and let us know which performance you plan to attend. Come support our talented student performers and enjoy a fun afternoon or evening at the theater!
The National Junior Honor Society is organizing a special Veterans Day flag delivery to recognize veterans who live in the West York community.
Families are invited to register a veteran so NJHS students can deliver a flag to their home on Wednesday, November 11, between 3:00 and 7:00 p.m. The effort is a small way for students to show appreciation for the service and sacrifice of local veterans while connecting with members of our community.
If you have a family member who is a veteran and lives in the West York community, please register them by November 9 using this link: https://www.canvaqr.com/RGWpscPLAU
Thank you for helping our students recognize and honor the veterans who have served our country.
Support West York Model United Nations with dinner at Chipotle on Tuesday, November 10, from 4:00–8:00 p.m. at 890 Loucks Road in York.
Twenty-five percent of event sales will be donated to the program. For online pickup orders, use code BMTEQCP, or show the fundraiser flyer when ordering in the restaurant.
Online orders must be placed for pickup only from the Loucks Road location during the fundraiser hours to count toward the event.
Only one week to go until our Bulldog staff takes on the Harlem Wizards at West York Area High School — and tickets are going fast!
Be there on Thursday, November 12 — Doors open at 6:00 p.m. and the game begins at 7:00 p.m. Proceeds benefit The Foundation for the West York Area School District’s teacher grant program.
Seats are filling up, so don’t wait — purchase your tickets now and make plans to join us for a fun night with the Harlem Wizards!
Purchase tickets: https://harlemwizardsinabox.com/game/event/yorkpa11-12-26-07-00pm/
Facebook event: https://www.facebook.com/events/1082087934549631/
The Bulldog Pantry is preparing for its next distribution on November 19, and donations are needed to help support West York students and families.
Current needs include stuffing, canned vegetables, boxed noodles, gravy, rice, pancake mix, and syrup.
For more information, visit the Bulldog Pantry page at wyasd.org/community/bulldog-pantry or contact Ms. Amanda Burt at amburt@wyasd.org. Thank you for helping us care for our Bulldog community!
Our Elementary PTO Holiday Shop is coming up, and we still need volunteers to help make the event possible!
Volunteers will assist students as they shop for loved ones, manage their money, and enjoy a fun holiday experience. You can help for one shift or stay for the full event.
Saturday, November 21
9:00 a.m.–12:30 p.m.
West York Area Middle School
High School and Middle School students are especially encouraged to volunteer and can earn community service hours. The PTO President can also verify hours and sign any required paperwork.
Sign up here: https://tinyurl.com/WYEHSVOL
Questions? Contact PTO President Katie Owings at WestYorkElemPTO@gmail.com.
