2016 Yearbook by Western Pennsylvania School for the Deaf Alumni Associtation

WESTERN PENNSYLVANIA SCHOOL FOR THE DEAF

Artwork by Caleb Hawkins, 6th grade

2O16

VOL. XLViI

3OO EAST SWISSVALE AVENUE PITTSBURGH, PA 15218-1469 WWW.WPSD.ORG

TABLE OF CONTENTS

CEO CLASS OF 2O16 STUDENTS STAFF SPORTS CLUBS/ACTIVITIES SENIOR ADS

Donald E. Rhoten Chief Executive officer

Mr. Rhoten with the Class of 2016

PREP FOR SUCCESS/ 13th Year

Sarah Bender

Justin Cristina

Madison Kober

Janaya Ray

Seniors

Cristian M. Baang What is your favorite memory from WPSD? Going to London - it was really fun! What sports, clubs or activities have you been involved in? Chess Club What are your future plans after graduation? I’m thinking about joining RIT/NTID. What is the TOP thing on your bucket list? To go to college

“Cris” April 22, 1998 Pittsburgh, PA

Storm Betts What is your favorite memory from WPSD? Eating lunch with Emily Petrillo What sports, clubs, or activities have you been involved in? Special Olympics and Recycling Team What are your future plans after graduation? I want to join an Adult Training Facility. What could you not live without? Cocoa Puffs snacks. I love eating my favorite snack.

“Stormy” June 19, 1995 Penn Hills, PA

Carl Bradshaw What is your favorite memory from WPSD? My best memories are with Travis and Dajion at Forbes. What sports, clubs, or activities have you been involved in? Basketball and Softball What are your future plans after graduation? To work at Amazon or a recycle company What is the TOP thing on your bucket list? I would really love to travel to Japan.

“King of Silliness” February 25, 1998 Allentown, PA

Dylan Craddock What sports, clubs, or activities have you been involved in? Photography Club and bowling What are your future plans after graduation? I want to become a policeman. What is the TOP thing on your bucket list? I want to travel to different states in the United States and take pictures of animals.

“Dylangel” July 23, 1996 Zelienople, PA

Dajion Lyndell Dixon What sports, clubs, or activites have you been involved in? Soccer and Basketball What are your future plans after graduation? I want to attend an automotive training college and become a coach at WPSD. What could you not live without? Playing sports What is the TOP thing on your bucket list? Owning a fancy Corvette

“Pookie” October 16, 1996 Lancaster, PA

Travis Frye What sports, clubs, or activites have you been involved in? Soccer, Basketball, Softball, Varsity Letter Club and Class of 2016 What are your future plans after graduation? I plan to find a job in automotive repair, landscape, or as a snow plow truck driver. What could you not live without? A pit bull puppy What is the TOP thing on your bucket list? To meet LeBron James

“BabyTrav” May 20, 1996 Uniontown, PA

Samantha S. Gibbs What sports, clubs, or activites have you been involved in? Academic Bowl, Pottery Club, Art Club and Peer Mentorship Program What are your future plans after graduation? My future plans include going to college to study biology and then maybe finding a job in microbiology. What is your biggest pet peeve? When people wake me up early in the morning. What could you not live without? Music, art and family

“Sam, Sammie, Lazybones” What is the TOP thing on your bucket list? January 28, 1998 To see George D’Amore smile before I graduateErie, PA finished!

Kathryn Holtzman

What sports, clubs, or activites have you been involved in? Manager for Volleyball and Basketball, Jr. NAD (President), SBG and Yearbook What are your future plans after graduation? Go to Gallaudet What is your biggest pet peeve? People touching my ears! What could you not live without? I could not live without DOGS!

“Katie” March 19, 1996 Scottdale, PA

What is the TOP thing on your bucket list? To join the Peace Corps

Alyssa Edith Hulme What sports, clubs, or activities have you been involved in? Volleyball, Basketball, Softball, GAA, Yearbook, Jr. NAD (Treasurer), Class of 2016 (Treasurer), and Peer Mentor What are your future plans after graduation? I’m going to college to learn how to be a photographer. What is your favorite memory at WPSD? Linda brought a hamster to the Girls’ Dorm. Emily and I wanted to pet it. I held it, then I accidentally dropped it. I quickly picked it up, but it bit my middle finger. I let go but it was dangling from my finger so I tossed it back into the cage. I had a serious cut from that hamster!

“Ally” October 17, 1997 Philadelphia, PA

What is the TOP thing on your bucket list? Bungee jumping, cliff-diving, watching turtles hatch and run to the ocean, and parachuting.

Kai Amy Miller What sports, clubs or activities have you been involved in? Volleyball, Cheerleading, Basketball, Softball, Dorm Council, SBG, Jr. NAD (Vice President), Class of 2016 What are your future plans after graduation? To go to college What is your biggest pet peeve? People who drive too slow in the fast lane! What is your most embarrassing moment? I was dancing and did not notice one of the staff saw me. What is the TOP thing on your bucket list? To hang from Toronto’s CN Tower

January 23, 1998 Scranton, PA

Nicholas Robert Miller What is your favorite memory at WPSD? Trip to London with my class of 2016 for the very first time ever What sports, clubs, or activities have you been involved in? Soccer, Basketball, Softball, Varsity Letter Club, Running Club, and Fitness Club What is the TOP thing on your bucket list? I want to travel to Paris, France with my family. What is your most embarrassing moment? When I was 16 years old, I forgot my black compression shorts at cross county practice, so my green and black underwear was showing underneath my running shorts. Everyone was laughing at me.

“White Fire” June 8, 1996 Marietta, PA

Emily Petrillo What is your favorite memory at WPSD? Special Olympics What are your future plans after graduation? Become a news reporter What is your biggest pet peeve? Thunderstorms What could you not live without? Storm

“E.P.” August 30, 1996 Canonsburg

What is your most memorable moment? Meeting A.J Pierzynski in Baltimore in August 2011.

Dae’Shawn Tyrell Ray What sports, clubs, or activites have you been involved in? Soccer for 2 years and Basketball for 2 years What are your future plans after graduation? I haven’t decided yet. What could you not live without? My family What is the TOP thing on your bucket list? Skydiving

“Shawn” November 5, 1997 Pittsburgh, PA

JiaFei Reeves

What is your favorite memory at WPSD? Trip to London What are your future plans after graduation? Go to college and work What sports, clubs, or activities have you been involved in? Cheerleading and Jr. NAD What could you not live without? Cruzer and my family What is the TOP thing on your bucket list? I want to move to Austin, Texas or Seattle, Washington.

February 2, 1996 Pittsburgh, PA

Emily Savannah Reno What sports, clubs or activities have you been involved in? Volleyball, Cheerleading, Basketball, Softball and Jr. NAD What are your future plans after graduation? Go to college and start my own life with a new beginning What could you not live without? My iPhone and animals What is your most embarrassing moment? I fell in the snow and my pants were all wet! What is the TOP thing on your bucket list? To travel around the world

â&#x20AC;&#x153;Emâ&#x20AC;? January 21, 1998 Grove City, PA

RaeQuawn Simmons What is your favorite memory at WPSD? Socializing with friends and after school activities What are your future plans after graduation? Find a job and work

What sports, clubs or activities have you been involved in? Basketball manager What could you not live without? My cat What is the TOP thing on your bucket list? To buy a house

July 8, 1996 Westmoreland City, PA

Cheyenne Nicole Solomon What is your favorite momorty at WPSD? I made new friends and love hanging out with them. What are your future plans after graduation? Continuing my education What sports, clubs or activitites have you been involved in? I have been involved in Jr. NAD, Pottery Club, Walking Club, and Fitness Club What is the TOP thing on your bucket list? I want to meet Sean Berdy! What is your most embarrassing moment? Dajion and Travis picking on me about my boyfriend.

“Ocean” March 26, 1997 Austin, PA

Stefon Trowell What is your favorite memory at WPSD? Having fun with my friends in class What are your future plans after graduation? 13th year at WPSD What could you not live without? Watching the Steelers, Pittsburgh Pirates, and Penguins! What is the TOP thing on your bucket list? To go to New York again

“Steffy” January 9, 1997 Munhall, PA

Jameel Smith What is your favorite memory at WPSD? Playing a tree in â&#x20AC;&#x153;The Wizard of Ozâ&#x20AC;? play What are your future plans after graduation? Live life to the fullest! What sports, clubs or activitites have you been involved in? Special Olympics What could you not live without? Books, hats, and my mom What is your biggest pet peeve? When something is not put back in its correct place What is the TOP thing on your bucket list? To go to Disney World and meet Mickey Mouse

May 19, 1995 Pittsburgh, PA

G u e s s w h o ?

B D

C E

A- Dajion Dixon B-Alyssa Hulme C-Storm Betts D-Cheyenne Solomon E- Cristian Baang F- RaeQuawn Simmons G-Emily Reno H-Carl Bradshaw I- Emily Petrillo J- Stefon Trowell K-Jameel Smith L- Kai Miller M- JiaFei Reeves N- Kathryn Holtzman O- Samantha Gibbs P-Nick Miller Q-Shawn Ray R - Dylan Craddock S - Travis Frye

S P

high school

Superlatives Most Hugga

ssed e r D t s e B

ble

Shawn Ray Rain Kelly

Cross Christian man ltz Katie Ho

Biggest F

lirt

Carl Brad shaw Ruth Nieli wocki

ydream

to Da ly e ik L t s o M

enzo Isabella DiR er Shaun Fish

ident c c A t s o M Prone

Bryant Fauntaye her Shaun Fis

Most Outgoing

Paola Camacho Montae Jackson

ality

erson P t s e B

eves Tori Re kson e Jac Monta

Class Clow

Fauntaye B ryant Seth Reeve s

Most Talkative

ocki Ruth Nieliw r Zion Harpe

thletic

Seth Re eve Kai Mille s r

Best Hair

Sam Gibbs Kyle Dâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Amore

ely to k i L t s o M est Pass a T dying u t S t u o With

tone Nick Ber s b Sam Gib

ted to Most Addic Texting

enzo Isabella DiR r Zion Harpe

Most A

ddicted to Starbuc ks

Kai M Jonath iller an Bor der

Best S

mile

Isabe lla Di Shaw Renzo n Ray

Most L take ikely to a #Se lfie

Shaw n Ray Iris H erefo rd

Senior M ost Cha nged since 9t h grade

Kai Mille r Travis F rye

Travis a nd Kai in 9th grad e!

Most A

Nicholas Bertone

Jonathan Border

Isabella DiRenzo

Shaun Fisher

Rain Kelly

Trenton LaRosa

Ruth Nieliwocki

Seth Reeves

Fauntaye Bryant

Christian Cross

Iris Hereford

Kristal Lash

Cheyenne Thompson

Noah McAuley

Shaniya Washington

JuNiors Marisa Walworth

What are you looking forward to in your senior year? “I’m looking forward to having all A+ for my grades.” ~Iris Hereford

“In my senior year, I am looking forward to working on my college credits for the future. I will work to earn scholarships to earn money for “I’m looking forward to studying hard college.” ~Nicholas Bertone to get ready for college. I’m excited to graduate.” ~Trenton LaRosa “I will go to college and leave WPSD. I will miss WPSD. They are my “I am excited to graduate next year family.” so I can go to college and follow my ~Jonathan Border dream job!” ~Christian Cross “To learn as many things as possible and be prepared to go out in the world after graduation.” ~Shaun Fisher

“I am looking forward to facing my fears, looking for careers, and making the best memories.” ~Seth Reeves “I’m looking forward to going to home basketball games after school.” ~Marisa Walworth “I’m looking forward to my senior year because it will be my last year to spend time with friends, play sports, homecoming, senior trip and more. Plus I will miss good memories at WPSD.” ~Isabella DiRenzo

“I’m looking forward to getting a job, socializing with people more, focusing more, and READING more!” ~Cheyenne Thompson “I’m looking forward to getting more education, and I will be thrilled to complete my senior year!” ~Ruth Nieliwocki “My senior year will be a busy year. I’m excited to be a senior because I feel ready to visit some colleges.” ~Fauntaye Bryant “I am looking forward to graduating from school, going on my senior trip to Florida and planning my future.” ~Noah McAuley “I can’t wait for my senior trip and graduation next year.” ~Shaniya Washington

Paola Camacho

Kyle Dâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Amore

Krista Foster

Cassie Friday

Brandon Gomez

Zion Harper

Montae Jackson

Emily Lamb

Dennita Lewis

Tori Reeves

Sara Ritchey

Alyssa Tavella

Justin Warke

Shania Williams

Sophomores

What is your favorite movie or TV show and why? “I like the One Piece movie. It is funny and it makes me laugh.” ~Montae Jackson

“I can not choose one because I love many movies!” ~Cassie Friday

“I like to watch any horror movie because it’s good to be scared.” ~Justin Warke

“My favorite show is Switched at Birth. It is fascinating and I enjoy it.” ~Krista Foster

“My favorite movie is Divergent because the main character never gives up on herself and is very aggressive.” ~ Tori Reeves “Family Guy because it’s a funny TV show.” ~Brandon Gomez “Ender’s Game is because it’s a very cool movie.” ~Kyle D’Amore “My favorite show is Switched at Birth because of the signing.” ~Shania Williams

“I really liked Antman. I saw it on the WPSD bus on the way to NYC. It was funny and fascinating.” ~Paola Camacho

“Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Day because it tells a funny story.” ~Zion Harper “The Fault in Our Stars because it’s a very romantic and sad movie. Sometimes I like to watch sad movies.” ~Dennita Lewis “The Fast and the Furious. I love Paul Walker.” ~Emily Lamb

“My favorite movie is the Teen Beach movie, parts one and two. I love this movie because it has a lot of song and dance. The songs get stuck in your head and makes you want to dance. It is funny and also enjoyable to watch. I love Ross Lynch and Mia Michelle. ” ~Sara Richey

Gage Arbuckle

David Breight

Chad Dâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Amore

Alexandra Francis

Katelyn Frenchak

Howard Lin

Colleen McHale

Nathen Taylor Noll

John Price

Kendrick Rivers

Cheyenne Sloan

Ryane Smalley

Keith Strominger

Antoine Hunter

Nicholas Everett

Kyle Keracher

Freshmen Destiny Tanner

McKensy Therrien

What advice do you have for 8th graders who will be starting high school next year? “Good luck!” ~Cheyenne Sloan

“My advice to middle school is good luck next year in 9th grade. Please don’t be dramatic! High school is about being mature and focusing on the future. Also in 9th grade, you will get a lot of homework, become more independent, and it’s a little more strict.” ~Alexandra Francis

“My advice is to keep up good grades, stay involved in organizations, and do everything in a positive way.” ~Kyle Keracher

“High school is harder than middle school.” ~Ryane Smalley

“My advice to the freshmen ~ it is not easy because teachers will teach you how to become more responsible to do your homework. It is hard to focus on sports and school but I’m giving you the best advice - focus on school first and sports second. School is very important for your education and future in college.” ~Destiny Tanner

“High school offers more classes. In high school, you are more independent than middle school.” ~Chad D’Amore

“Be ready for homework during the first week of high school.” ~Howard Lin

“Good luck in high school! Don’t throw important papers in the recycle bin - you might need them for tests!” ~McKensy Therrien

“My advice to middle school kids that will be a freshman next year is, just be yourself. Do not wear too much make up, and just focus on education & chill. (Plus, don’t even try to cause a lot of drama in high school because you are not in middle school anymore.) GOOD LUCK!” ~Antoine Hunter

“You need to get prepared for high school because it’s very different than middle school. Just be mature, do all your homework and follow ROARS!” ~Colleen McHale

middle school

James Carr

Xiaoli Carr

Amber Cherpak

Danielle Fisher

Derek Forrester

Lara Geary

Emily Oesterling

Summer Olszewski

Jade Parker

Alisha Pitt

Rebekah Quinn

Rosie Santucci

Dylan Zurawski

8th Grade

What are you looking forward to in High School? “I am looking forward to new teachers so I can get to know them. I will miss middle school of course, but I want to go to high school now!” ~Emily Oesterling

“I’m looking forward to new trips and new friendships. The independence will be a lot different. I’m kinda nervous to go to high school, but it will be awesome.” ~Rosie Santucci

“In high school, I’m looking forward to more education and seeing how high school is different from middle school. I also want to become more independent.” ~Xiaoli Carr

“Being serious in school, focusing on education, and getting good grades.” ~Dylan Zurawski

“I will join volleyball, cheerleading and softball. I am ready for more learning!” ~Rebekah Quinn “I want to join volleyball, basketball, softball and become a runner! I can’t wait for my classes and to go on a field trip to Washington, D.C.” ~Jade Parker “Next year, I will be together with my friends and have fun!” ~ Amber Cherpak “I’m looking forward to more challenges and to learn more by having cool experiences like going on field trips.” ~Lara Geary

“I’m looking forward to taking my work more seriously in high school. My goal is getting good grades.” ~Summer Olszewski “Next year, in high school, I will make new friends, work and get good grades. I will join high school clubs.” ~ Alisha Pitt “I’m looking forward to being in high school so I can be more independent and be involved in more fun activities. Also I’ll like to socialize with my friends in high school.” ~ Dani Fisher “I’m looking forward to joining new clubs such as Battle Bots IQ, Academic Bowl, Photography and Yearbook, and still be the Chess Team Captain. I also am looking forward to meeting new teachers and having new classes.” ~James Carr

Ayesha Austin

Angelina Baker

Michael Cox

Olivia Larson

Destiny Mendel

Victoria Pryor

Jenna D’Amore

What is one thing that you love about yourself?

“I love that I get along with others.” ~Destiny Mendel “I love that sometimes when I feel like giving up on basketball, I try again.” ~Ayesha Austin “I love that I’m very creative and I’m pretty much a nice person.” ~Angelina Baker

“The one thing I love about myself is that I am Deaf and I am proud to be Deaf.” ~Jenna D’Amore “I’m funny, smart, and kind. I’m proud of who I am.” ~Victoria Pryor “I am proud to be Deaf. I also love helping kids”. ~Olivia Larson

“I like that I am helpful and I help out my mom a lot.” ~Michael Cox

7th Grade

Valerie DeVos

Braden Elliott

Daren Francisco

Alyssa Goshaw

Caleb Hawkins

Daniel Kadlick

Amanda Nagy

Shaila Rodriguez

Faith Saulsberry

Blake Swayne

Maleek Washington

What would you do with one million dollars? “I would buy a life size minion.” ~Amanda Nagy

“I would donate the money to WPSD.” ~Braden Elliott

“I would buy a PS4, Xbox One, Wii U, a new house and new cars.” ~Maleek Washington

“I would go on a trip all around the world to interview people.” ~Faith Saulsberry “I would buy crafts, because I love arts and crafts.” ~Valerie DeVos

“I would buy a sports car called Nissan -GTR because I want to race.” “I would give the money away to WPSD.” ~Caleb Hawkins ~Allie Goshaw “I would live way out in the country with “I would buy a Wii U, a house, a car and a horse.” ~Daren Francisco an Xbox One. I would share with other “I would buy nine homes, sports cars people who don’t have money.” and donate money to help old people. ~Shaila Rodriguez I would also buy a Nissan- GTR and an “I would take a field trip to the moon with Xbox One.” John Foust.” ~Daniel Kadlick ~Blake Swayne

6th grade

Zoe Austin

Claudia Chiusano

Olivia Clinger

Bernie Elliott

Maggie Geary

Makenna Hager

Zachary Saunders

Aniya Wilson

Sierra Woodford

Morkos Youssef

5th Grade

What is your favorite class and why?

“My favorite class is art because I love to draw and create new things. I want to become a good artist!” ~ Makenna Hager

“My favorite class is drama because I like to perform in the shows.” ~Zachary Saunders

“My favorite class is art because I like to draw pictures.” ~Morkos Youssef

“My favorite class is reading because it helps me reach my reading goal. It helps me to get better and smarter. I learn new words in nonfiction books.” ~ Bernie Elliott

“My favorite class is measurement because Mr. Foust lets us measure skinny wood. My dad was also his student. Mr. Foust is a nice, patient and funny man!” ~ Olivia Clinger

“My favorite class is science because I love to do experiments. I want to be a science teacher in the future.” ~Claudia Chiusano “My favorite class is math because I like Mary to teach me how to do it. I am practicing place value.” ~ Maggie Geary

“My favorite class is computer because I like to play games.” ~Aniya Wilson

“My favorite class is reading because it is fascinating and encouraging to fall into the story of the books that I read.” ~Zoe Austin “My favorite class is gym because I like to play basketball.” ~Sierra Woodford

Elementary School

Amy Forrester

Jared Price

Bradon Scholefield

Gebreabzgi Helmstadter

Walker Remis

Sarah Vogel

Elsie Olwal

Kierra Oyler

Samantha Reno

Isolde Rittenberger

Noah Weiner

What is your favorite thing to do when you are not in school? “I like playing with my brother at home.” ~Kierra Oyler

“I like to draw.” ~Amy Forrester

“I like to play outside and on my iPod.” ~Sami Reno

“I do my homework at home.” ~Brandon Scholefield

“I like to ride my bike and play on my iPod.” ~Geb Helmstadter

“I like rollerblading at home.” ~Isolde Rittenberger

“I like to play on the swings.” ~ Sarah Vogel

“I like to play in the snow.” ~ Elsie Olwal

“ I like to play outside and video games.” ~Walker Remis “I like playing outside in the snow or in the sun. It doesn’t matter the weather.” ~Jared Price

“I like to play Wii games after school.” ~Noah Weiner

4th grade

Truly Austin

Christopher Brisach

Hunter Clinger

Dalton D’Angelo

Luel Helmstadter

Dante Merriman

Laura Cottrell

If you could have a superhero power, what would it be? “I wish I could have x-ray powers.” ~ Dalton D’Angelo

“I would be able to fly!” ~Dante Merriman

“I want to be a strong man like Superman.” ~ Hunter Clinger

“My superhero power would be that I could run fast and freeze people.” ~Laura Cottrell

“I would like to have invisibility as my super power.” ~Truly Austin

“I want invisibility to be my super power.” ~Christopher Brisach

“I want my super power to be able to climb walls.” ~Luel Helmstadter

3rd grade

Dale D’Angelo

Alex Eichelberger

Marissa Murphy

Morgana Osburn

Aubrey Pettigrew

Elisha Querry

Tay-Von Reed

Royale Reno-Gaus

Kyrey Therrien

What is your favorite food? “Tacos.” ~Dale D’Angelo Jr. “Steak.” ~Royale Reno-Gaus “Chocolate.” ~Tay-Von Reed

“Chicken.” ~Marissa Murphy “Pepperoni pizza.” ~Elisha Querry “Ice cream.” ~Kyrey-Therrien

“Cheese popcorn.” ~Aubrey Pettigrew “Chips.” ~Alex Eichelberger “Ice cream.” ~Morgana Osburn

2nd grade

Jreem Abercrombie

Isabella Barker

Camden Barkey

Gabriel Bente

Jerrell Carr

Ada DiFrancesco

Paityn Gajan

Johnny Girten

Mackenzie Hadix

Zenaizj Jones

Natalia Zurita

What is your favorite toy? “My favorite toy is a nerf gun.” ~Jreem Abercrombie

“My favorite toy is my Minnie Mouse doll.” ~Paityn Gajan

“I like to play on my iPad.” ~Natalia Zurita “My favorite toy is my Elsa doll.” ~Mackenzie Hadix “My favorite toy is a train.” ~Jerrell Carr “My favorite toy is a toy phone.” “My favorite toy is a monster truck.” ~Ada DeFrancesca ~Zenaizj Jones “The army tank is my favorite toy.” ~Camden Barkey

“My favorite toy is a basketball.” ~Johnny Girten

“My favorite toy is a football.” ~ Gabe Bente

“My favorite toy is a long, purple wig. I pretend I am Rapunzel.” ~Isabella Barker

1st grade

Childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Center

Kindergarten Jacob Brand

Gia Pinto

Abby Gabriel

Alex Reno-Gaus

Connor Hilligoss

Daniel Sanner

Dominic Jetter

Preschool Izabelle Austin

Frankie Black

Kalilah D’Angelo

Grace Dudt-Mulzet

Jameson Iachini

A’nyis Jones

Aubree Lindsey

Isabella Medaglio

Benedict Vinzani

Mason White

Landon Carpinello

Madalynn Cox

Lydia Fortnam-Posey

Jacob Gault

Jacob Knipp

Avery Stevick

Zack Yakubik

Jazlyn Krills

Zyler Terpak

Amilah Zayed

Childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s House Niko Mazreku

Bryson Stuber

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“Gorilla

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What makes you proud of WPSD? “I am proud of my school because we have the best teachers.” ~Leul Helmstadter, 3rd grade

“Teachers always encourage me, never give up on me and never let me fail at anything.” ~Cheyenne Thompson, 11th grade

“The Peer Mentor Program makes me proud because I help a lot of people.” ~Nicholas Bertone, 11th grade

“The residential students go on fun field trips.” ~Elisha Querry, 2nd grade

“I am proud of WPSD because I fit here. I can use ASL with my friends and teachers. This school is my second family!” ~Olivia Larson, 7th grade

‘‘Our Gym teachers are the best!’’ ~Royale Reno-Gaus, 2nd grade

‘‘My teachers teach me math and reading. I try, think, work, and learn and then I am proud when I do my best work.’’~Maggie, 5th grade

“I’m a proud WPSD student because my teachers help me become successful. WPSD has good hearing teachers and deaf teachers.” ~Chad D’Amore, 9th grade

‘‘I like being able to communicate with other people here.” ~Jonathan Border, 11th grade

“I’m proud of learning how to read at WPSD.” ~Sarah Vogel, 4th grade

#wpsdproud

“I am proud to be a WPSD student. WPSD has everything that we need.” ~Bernie Elliott, 5th grade

“The education and care that WPSD gives me.” ~Victoria Pryor, 7th grade

“I love playing on the basketball team.” ~Dale D’Angelo Jr., 2nd grade

“I have many friends and have the best memories. WPSD is safe. It makes me feel happy.” ~Alisha Pitt, 8th grade

‘‘WPSD always has the best opportunities. I had the opportunity to go to Space Camp!” ~Rosie Santucci, 8th grade

‘‘I love being a WPSD cheerleader.’’ ~Kyrey Therrien, 2nd grade

‘‘WPSD provides fun activities and trips.” ~Colleen McHale, 9th grade

“ I like WPSD because I like the dorm.” ~Jreem Abercrombie, 1st grade

“I’m proud WPSD gives me the opportunity to go to Forbes.” ~Iris Hereford, 11th grade

“I am proud of the many activities and the technology.” ~Destiny Mendel, 7th grade

‘‘I’m proud of WPSD because I like my teachers and I like math and science. I’ve really wanted to be a teacher since I was a little girl, so I need to learn math and science.’’ Claudia Chiusano, 5th grade

“I can prove to everyone that I can do anything except hear. I am thankful to WPSD for teaching me things I didn’t learn in my 10 years at a public school.” ~Shaun Fisher, 11th grade

STAFF

22 Years of Excellence! Mr. ByDonald E. Rhoten Mr. Gregg Bowers The year was 1994. A pivotal year in the history of WPSD. Dr. William Craig was retiring after 24 years. The next superintendent would be only our ninth in school history. It was both an exciting and worrisome time. Who would become our new superintendent and direct the mission of our storied School for the next 20 years?

The interview process for all of the applicants was very thorough and exhaustive. All members of the WPSD “Family” were represented during this vetting procedure. Don Rhoten emerged as the School’s 9th superintendent. What an excellent selection it was at a very turbulent time for schools for the Deaf nationwide.

The following are only some examples of the innovations at the direction of Mr. Rhoten. You may be able to name many more. Each of these was designed with the specific needs of our students. In fact, in every situation and circumstance, our students were Don’s first priority. Immediately, Mr. Rhoten raised the standards of our academic programs with the goal of matching and exceeding public school curriculum standards. Mainstreaming opportunities for our students were expanded. A revamped Applied Studies program for our special needs students was implemented. In 1996, the Applied Studies department area was completely renovated with attention towards education, on the job training and home living skill development.

One of Don’s first decisions was to join ESDAA (Eastern States Schools for the Deaf Association). This was fantastic as it bolstered our sports programs and fostered engagement and fantastic socialization for our students and with our fellow schools.

In 1995, sign language proficiency standards were established for all staff. AICE (All-Inclusive Communication Environment) was also established to ensure the communication needs of each of our students were met.

To further reinforce these school improvements, Mr. Rhoten undertook the most extensive physical plant improvements on our campus since the infamous fire that destroyed our main building in 1899. In the early 2000s, the Auditorium was beautifully renovated. Superior technology and Deaf friendly state of the art equipment was incorporated while uncovering and honoring our past with majestic stained glass windows, ceilings and balcony.

During that same time, the Learning Center and the TV Studio, were constructed and were, and remain, state of the art. These provide unique learning opportunities that few Schools for the Deaf or any school can match. Interwoven in each of these spectacular additions were salutes to our proud past.

The Independent Living Program was created. This was to better assist our students to prepare for life after WPSD.

In 2000, a state of the art Fitness Center both our students and staff enjoy was constructed.

Starting in 2001, School security throughout our campuses was greatly enhanced. Properties along Walnut Street were purchased, torn down, renovated or repurposed as WPSD offices, parking lots and housing for our employees, students and their families, among others.

A collaboration between WPSD and Pressley Ridge was developed including a residential housing component. This unique program provided more intense help to socially and emotionally challenged Deaf students with the goal of integrating them into WPSD. In 2001, the office of Outreach was established to expand our outreach to the eastern part of Pennsylvania. We have an office in Camp Hill and a preschool program in Hershey.

In 2006, the spectacular Children’s Center was created. This offers our youngest students a jump start on early education along with our state-wide preschool programs. In all, 19 existing space renovations have occurred on the WPSD campus under the direction of Mr. Rhoten.

In addition, in 2009, with enthusiastic support from our Board of Trustees, Mr. Rhoten established a new school in Scranton - The Scranton School for Deaf & Hard-of-Hearing Children. Otherwise, there would have been no Deaf school option with a residential component for Deaf and hard of hearing students in Northeastern Pennsylvania. Later, the school

moved to a 100-acre beautiful campus in nearby Clarks Summit. Our campus in Clarks Summit just completed its third major renovation as it continues to grow and thrive.

Don Rhoten also made certain our schools’ interests and concerns were communicated to local political representatives and those in Harrisburg at the state level. He also developed close relationships with the Department of Education. Each of these relationships was critical to our schools continued viability.

The only “new build” project was just completed in 2014. Our spectacular Residence provides excellent living and learning conditions in a 40,000 square foot beautiful home Wow! It has been a busy and away from home for our students. productive 22 years. All of these developments have strengthened Don was very personally involved WPSD, SSDHHC and our umbrella with all aspects that concerned programs while increasing our WPSD and later SSDHHC. Don enrollment. While numerous other has reconnected with alumni at schools for the Deaf have been forced both schools. He understands the to close during this time period, unbreakable bond they have with under Mr. Rhoten’s leadership, their schools. I believe blue and gold our Schools remain strong and a blood runs through Don’s veins too. fantastic option for all Deaf and hard of hearing students in the Commonwealth. Mr. Donald Rhoten may well be remembered as the most consequential superintendent to grace our storied School.

ADMINISTRATION Amy Dent

Beth Fluke

Martha Hutchinson

Sandi Kitchen

Marybeth Lauderdale

Donald Mazreku

Kevin McDonough

Sue McDonough

Jennifer Morris

Aaron Noschese

Jennifer Stuber

Sally Wellman

Curriculum and Assessment Coordinator

Director

Administrative Assissant

IEP Coordinator

Receptionist

Principal of Elementary and Applied Sudies

Chief Operating Officer

Coordinator of Childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Services/ Parent Advocate

Administrative Assissant

Principal of Middle and High School

Administrative Assissant

Administrative Assistant

Carrie Rain

Kathy Stephan

Rita Witt

Valentine Wojton

Director of Early Childhood Programs

Receptionist

Athletic Director

ADMINISTRATION Dori Bachar

Sarah Bartlebaugh

Todd Behanna HR Specialist

Senior Accountant

Matt Campion

Vicki Cherney

Crystal Davis

Vickie Frost

Barbara Hancock

Leslie Leary

Director of Human Resources

Director of Institutional Advancement

Accounting Clerk

Judy Taslov Administrative Assistant

Public Affairs Manager

Director of Marketing

Payroll Clerk

Lisa Yankowski Accounts Payable

Registrar

Barbara Manning Chief Fiscal Officer

Kim Calloway

Administrative Assistant

Alyia Paulding Administrative Assistant

WPSD STAFF Tina Abraham Counselor

Kathy Bartholow Teacher

Katrina Betz

Speech Language Pathologist

Michelle Campbell Teacher

Amy Alverson Teacher

Betty Baverso House Keeper Team Leader

Cassandra Beveridge Teacher

Louis Campero Bus Aide

Wendy Auden Teacher

Sean Belavic Security

Linda Burik

Learning Center Director

Beth Carr Teacher

Dennis Barnett Security

Kathleen Betz Library Aide

Lori Cain Residential Suoervisor

Mary Agnes Connor Teacher

Jennifer Craig Audiologist

Thomas DeFazio Residential Supervisor

Anthony Dumblosky Paraprofessional

Jason Ennis

Print Production Assistant

Walter Czekanski Fleet Coordinator

Dana Dailey Teacher

Michael Del Cimmuto Fabrienne DeRise Director of Campus Safety

Counselor

Charmaine Dunbar

Pauline Dunbar

Security

Teacher

Mary Ennis

Owen Faulkner

Dean of Girls

Housekeeper

George Dâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Amore Residential Supervisor

Douglas Downes

Residential Supervisor

Connie Elias Nurse

John Fisher

Media Tech Aide

Sharon Fisher Paraprofessional

William Funk Housekeeper Team Leader

Patricia Greeno Teacher

Thomas Halik Dean of Boys

Deborah Husar Teacher

Anne Fisher-Evangelista Occupational Therapist

Thomas Gentile Print Shop Manager

Joel Grover

John Foust Teacher

Shari Gerlach Teacher

Jacob Gruseck

Gary Freilino Teacher

John Gibson Teacher

Edward Halferty

Director of Evaluation and Counseling

Residential Supervisor

Michael Hand

Christie Homell Teacher

Residential Supervisor

Kelly Jezerski

Audrey Johnston

Donna Johnston

Teacher

Paraprofessional

Security

Marjorie Hudson

Paraprofessional/ Office Aide

Fran Jolly

Adam Jugan

Wayne Kelly

Norman Kemerer

Carolyn Kirkpatrick

Barbara Kite Bus Aide

Mark Kite

Bus Driver / Maintenance

Katherine Kolosky

Robert Kropp

Linda Langer

Gina Leskovic Speech Language Pathologist

Residential Supervisor

Joni Magill

Pam Magness

Robert Maher

Alan Majocha

Tina Marshall

Lyndsay Marx

Helen May

Gail McCall

Guidance Counselor

Coordinator of Library Services

MaintenanceGroundskeeper

Speech Language Pathologist

Teacher

Housekeeper

Paraprofessional

Teacher

Speech Language Pathologist

Teacher

Maintenance

Nurse

Maintenance

Teacher

Patricia Long

Print Production Coordinator

Teacher

Roberta McCoy Housekeeper

Gina McDonald Nurse

Brandi McGowan

Linda McKay

Residential Supervisor

Daniel McNamara

Erin McNeil-Mascaro

Janine McTighe

Erin Medley

Alice Mentzer

Anita Mitchell

Cathy Morgan

Sheri Morgan

James McMahon Maintenance

Teacher

Interpreter

Julie Ann Mountain Teacher

Paraprofessional

Teacher

Tara Nikou Teacher

Teacher

Paraprofessional

John Moser

Technology Director

Mary Noe

Administrative Assistant

Speech Language Pathologist

Jarrett Mollenauer Residential Supervisor

Kristi Mosholder Teacher

John Noschese Housekeeper

Mary Noschese Teacher

Sheree Perry Teacher

Derek Possumato Residential Supervisor

Kirsten Raether Physical Therapist

Maureen Reilly-Price Teacher

Robert Noschese

Rosemarie Noschese

Margi Jo Patton

Diane Pici-McMahon

Carrie Poilucci

Sharon Portser

Michael Prezioso

Tatiana Prezioso

Maintenance

Paraprofessional

Nancy Possumato Nurse

Paraprofessional

Teacher

James Raffle

Mary Redfern

John Reiss

Deborah Remis

Residential Supervisor

Security

Teacher

Nurse

Audiologist

Jodi Reeves

Job Coach/ Coordinator Liaison

Carol Riser

Vocational Evaluator

Ellen Russell

Shelley Ryan

Christy Shively

Brian Slavinsky

Technology Specialist

Paraprofessional

Heather Stiff

Behavior Specialist

Teacher

Media Coordinator

Joan Stone

Coordinator of Interpreting Services

Thomas Sage

Nicole Shaw

Venita Smith

Rolland Spadacene

David Strait

Paul Swiatek

Edward Tissue

Paraprofessional

Residential Supervisor

Rebecca Taslov

Charleen Tasselli

David Tasselli

Terry Uzarski

Gregory Valotta

Michelle Vigliotti

Residential Supervisor

Coordinator of Plant Operations

Teacher

Security

Maintenance

Residential Supervisor

Teacher

Housekeeper

Maintenance

Security

Thomas Walton

Maintenance / Painter

Karen Roudybush Teacher/ Reading Specialist

Alisa Whysong Teacher

Michelle Zelei Teacher

Jaime Wattick Paraprofessional

William Willis Security

Wendy Zdobinski Speech Language Pathologist

Shannon Weese

Donna Weiss

Robert Wilson

Amy Wing

Residential Supervisor

Security

Art Therapist

Teacher

David Zurawski Paraprofessional

Long Term Substitutes

Beth Anderson Teacher

Deanna Baker Paraprofessional

Michele Colville Teacher

Michelle Paonessa Teacher

FIVE STARR SERVICES

Back Row: Tammy Insko, Mike Insko, Peggy Patterson Front Row: Karen Carroll, Angela Cristina, Charlene Halleran, Dennis Francis

Dick Starr

5 Starr Services Director

Autographs

FALL SPORTS

MIGHTY MITEs SOCCER

Back Row- Braden Elliott, Lori Cain (Asst. Coach), Jacob Gruseck (Asst. Coach), Tony Dumblosky (Head Coach) Middle Row- Elisha Querry, Hunter Clinger, Jared Price, Luel Helmstadter, Gebreabzgi Helmstadter, Paityn Gajan, Amy Forrester Front Row- Bernie Elliott, Elsie Olwal, Truly Austin, Isolde Rittenberger, Samantha Reno

VARSITY SOCCER

Back Row- Danielle Fisher, Dylan Zurawski, Kyle Keracher, Christian Cross, George D’Amore (Asst. Coach), Valentine Wojton III (Head Coach), David Tasselli (Asst. Coach), Antoine Hunter, Chad D’Amore, Nathen Taylor Noll Front Row- Trenton LaRosa (Manager), Ryane Smalley, John Price, Kyle D’Amore, Justin Warke, Dajion Dixon, Seth Reeves, Shaun Fisher, Zion Harper (Manager)

Senior

VARSITY VOLLEYBALL

Back Row- Olivia Larson, Rosie Santucci, Cheyenne Sloan, Isabella DiRenzo, Mary Agnes Connor Behanna (Asst. Coach), Christie Homell (Head Coach), Cassie Friday, Tori Reeves, Destiny Tanner, Angelina Baker (Manager) Front Row- Alyssa Hulme, Emily Reno, Kai Miller

Seniors

The 2015 Varsity Lady Lions volleyball team had the most challenging season ever! They were extremely busy with a schedule of 27 matches for the first two months of the season. There were ten players selected to play on the Varsity Team, they put in a lot of teamwork in the season with 16 wins, 11 losses. In September, we were invited to a tournament at the Rochester School for the Deaf for their Homecoming; we competed against St. Mary’s School for the Deaf and Rochester School for the Deaf playing each of them twice on Friday and twice on Saturday. We beat St. Mary’s School for the Deaf on both days. We had an intense, challenging match against Rochester School for the Deaf on the first night; we lost to them in the 5th set by 4 points. The Rochester School for the Deaf team went undefeated on the second day, WPSD came in 2nd place. It was the first year in a long time for the Division I and Division II teams to participate in the 35th ESDAA volleyball tournament hosted by Delaware School for the Deaf. There were 10 teams competing for the championship and it was the biggest tournament we had ever been to. On Friday evening, the girls played one set against each team in the their pool play for a round robin tournament, the first match we competed and beat the Marie Philip School for the Deaf team from Massachusetts. The second match we had quite a challenging match against the Lexington School for the Deaf team, the girls strived to win. The girls were eager to go on and played matches against two more teams on Friday night, they beat the American School for the Deaf team. They had previously competed against St. Mary’s School for the Deaf at Homecoming in Rochester, N.Y. in September and the team was pretty confident they would be able to go ahead of them in the match, and the Lady Lions won! The assistant coach and myself were very proud of the way the girls played with such passion, tirelessly putting forth their best effort for a long and exciting night! The next day of the tournament, they competed against Delaware School for the Deaf and lost in the third set by 4 points. They went on to play 3 sets in the semi-finals; it was a very close and intense match! The girls worked hard to keep the team together against Lexington School for the Deaf; we knew that it would be a challenging match for us all. We beat them in both sets and didn’t have to move on to the third set. We placed in 3rd place, out of 10 teams! Two of our Lady Lions (Kai Miller and Alyssa Hulme) received awards for All-Star player. Kai Miller and Tori Reeves received a Skills Competition (setting) Award for winning the highest number of times setting the ball back and forth over the net in a minute. Every year, we create a special motto; our motto for this year was

Just Do Volleyball To our seniors this year, Good Luck to you in the future and may you always cherish your memories of volleyball! ~ Christie Homell, Head Coach

JUNIOR VARSITY VOLLEYBALL

Back Row- Mary Agnes Connor Behanna (Head Coach), Alisha Pitt, Allie Goshaw, Alexandra Francis, Paola Camacho, Jade Parker, Emily Oesterling Middle Row- Amber Cherpak (Manager), Rebekah Quinn, Summer Olszewski, Angelina Baker (Manager) Front Row- Rosie Santucci, Jenna Dâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Amore, Olivia Larson, Ruth Nieliwocki

WINTER SPORTS

JUNIOR VARSITy BOYS' BASKETBALL

Back Row- Shaun Fisher, Zion Harper, Michael Cox, Shawn Ray, Dylan Zurawski, Brandon Gomez, George Dâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Amore (Head Coach) Front Row- Justin Warke, James Carr, Carl Bradshaw, Nathen Taylor Noll

Senior Senior

VARSITY BOYS' BASKETBALL

Back Row- Kyle D’Amore, Christian Cross, Chad D’Amore, Dajion Dixon, Antoine Hunter, Kyle Keracher, Dylan Zurawski, Brandon Gomez Front Row- Seth Reeves, Justin Warke

David Tasselli (Head Coach), George D’Amore (Asst. Coach)

Senior

VARSITY GIRLS' BASKETBALL

Back Row- John Fisher (Asst. Coach), Paola Camacho (Manager), Michelle Vigliotti (Head Coach) Middle Row- Jade Parker, Olivia Larson, Alisha Pitt, Isabella DiRenzo, Ryane Smalley, Cassie Friday, Alyssa Hulme, Kai Miller, Danielle Fisher, Destiny Tanner, Tori Reeves, Rosie Santucci, Ruth Nieliwocki, Emily Lamb Front Row- Alyssa Goshaw Missing - Ayesha Austin

My first year as Head Coach was a great year for me. Over the year, I was able to see the teamwork improve a lot. The performance from the girls by the end of the season really impressed me and everyone else! I was always excited to be around my team and really enjoyed teaching them. One funny moment happened when one of my girls got the ball from the jump and ran to the wrong basket and gave the other team 2 points. I am looking forward to another year with everyone since most of them will come back to play again next year. ~Michelle Vigliotti, Head Coach

Senior

Senior Mid-American Classic & 17th Annual Homecoming at WPSD We came in second place

ESDAA Division 1 Girls Basketball Tournament at RSD We came in third place. Kai Miller and Alyssa Hulme were voted the All-Stars for WPSD. They played great and very aggressive the whole tournament.

Overall Record: 14 wins and 13 loses League Record: 7 wins and 7 losses

Middle school boyS' BASKETBALL

Back Row - Coach David Tasselli, Braden Elliott, Michael Cox, Dylan Zurawski, and Coach Valentine Wojton, III Front Row - Bernie Elliott, Morkos Youssef, and Caleb Hawkins

On Tuesday, February 23rd, 2016, we traveled to Maryland School for the Deaf-Columbia Campus to partake in the 13th Annual Tri-State Basketball Tournament for the Middle School students. We brought 6 boys and 10 girls. Our boys refused to give up and fought through to the last buzzer, ending up losing all 3 games in the round robin bracket. We were placed in the 3rd/4th place game against Marie Philip School and lost a tough game to them. Dylan Zurawski was named to the AllTournament team. The boys won the Free-Throw skill competition.

Middle school GirlS' BASKETBALL The girls also participated in the 13th Annual

Back Row- Coach Michelle Vigliotti, Rosie Santucci, Ayesha Austin, Danielle Fisher, Olivia Larson, Alisha Pitt, and Coach Valentine Wojton, III Front Row - Destiny Mendel, Zoe Austin, Olivia Clinger, Maggie Geary, and Sierra Woodford

Tri-State Basketball Tournament at Maryland School for the Deaf. They took both games in the round robin games, beating Maryland School for the Deaf-Columbia Campus (2412) and Kendall (34-19). We were placed in the “SEED #1” slot on the bracket and were ready to face Kendall. We opened the 1st quarter with a full-court press and at the end of the first quarter, we were tied, 6-6. We decided to drop the press and go back to the zone defense and it worked. We shut them down until the waning second when they hit a contested 3-pointer shot. We led at the half, 15-9. We kept on battling and when the buzzer sounded, the score was 27-18 in our favor. We broke Kendall’s 7-year stronghold of the title. Ayesha Austin, Danielle Fisher, and Alisha Pitt were named to the All-Tournament team. We also took both skills competition (FreeThrows and Team Lay-Ups).

Younger MIGHTY MITES Basketball

Back Row- Tony Dumblosky (Head Coach), Samantha Reno, Dalton D’Angelo, Lori Cain (Asst. Coach), Walker Remis, Truly Austin, Jacob Gruseck (Asst. Coach) Front Row- Hunter Clinger, Elisha Querry, Dale D’Angelo, Jreem Abercrombie

older MIGHTY MITES Basketball

Back Row- Tony Dumblosky (Head Coach), Lori Cain (Asst. Coach), Zoe Austin, Destiny Mendel, Olivia Clinger, Braden Elliott, Caleb Hawkins, Morkos Youssef, Jacob Gruseck (Asst. Coach) Front Row- Maggie Geary, Sierra Woodford, Zachary Saunders, Bernie Elliott

MIGHTY MITES CHEERLEADING

Back Row- Rebecca Taslov (Asst. Coach), Kierra Oyler, Venita Smith (Head Coach) Front Row- Paityn Gajan, Ada DiFrancesco, Kyrey Therrien

JUNIOR VARSITyCheerleadIng

Back Row- Venita Smith (Head Coach), Dennita Lewis, Sara Ritchey, McKensey Therrien, Colleen McHale, Linda Langer (Asst. Coach) Front Row- Katelyn Frenchak, Fauntaye Bryant, Janaya Ray, Xiaoli Carr, Jenna Dâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Amore

VARSITY CHEERLEADING

Back Row- Linda Langer (Head Coach), Nick Bertone, Krista Foster, Rain Kelly, Jonathan Border, Rebekah Quinn, Iris Hereford, Nick Miller, Venita Smith (Asst. Coach) Middle Row- Emily Reno, Janaya Ray Front Row- JiaFei Reeves

“Our team has spirit, our team has heart, together we’re solid, so we’ll never part” is our cheerleading slogan! The cheerleaders in both Junior Varsity and Varsity squads have shown their improvement since the cheer clinic and they have learned a lot about jumps, stunts, cheers, and chants. The Varsity squad continued practicing until the end of the season in preparation for the Eastern Schools for the Deaf Athletic Association Cheerleading Competition at Lexington School for the Deaf in New York in February. The competition was a good experience for the squad and it opened up opportunities for the squad to learn to perform and compete under pressure. They placed fourth and I’m extremely proud of them. ~Linda Langer, Head Coach

Senior

BOYS' SOFTBALL

Back Row: Marty Weber (Head Coach), Dylan Zurawski, Nick Miller, Dajion Dixon, Antoine Hunter, Chad D’Amore, Kyle D’Amore, Christian Cross, Kyle Keracher, David Zurawski (Asst. Coach) Middle Row: Montae Jackson, Nathen Taylor Noll, Shaun Fisher, Justin Warke, Brandon Gomez, Nicholas Bertone Front Row: RaeQuawn Simmons, Carl Bradshaw, James Carr, Seth Reeves, Justin Cristina, Zion Harper

GIRLS' SOFTBALL

Back Row: Lara Geary, Dennita Lewis, Colleen McHale, Rosie Santucci, Isabella DiRenzo, Ayesha Austin, Jenna Dâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Amore, Olivia Larson, Rebekah Quinn, Ryane Smalley, Alexandra Francis Third Row: Xiaoli Carr, Tori Reeves, Danielle Fisher, Ruth Nieliwocki, Donald Rhoten, Alyssa Hulme, Cassie Friday, Alisha Pitt, Paola Camacho Second Row: Angelina Baker, Jade Parker, Destiny Tanner, Alyssa Goshaw, Torrie Pryor Front Row: Kai Miller, Emily Reno Missing from photo: Alan Majocha (Asst. Coach), Linda McKay (Head Coach)

SignShine

Back Row: Zion Harper, Nick Bertone, Montae Jackson Front Row: Isabella DiRenzo, Krista Foster, Fauntaye Bryant Missing from photo: Erin McNeil-Mascaro, Julie Ann Mountain and Amy Alverson (Advisors)

Mini SignShine

Back Row: Angelina Baker, Summer Olszewski, Alisha Pitt, Maleek Washington Front Row: Olivia Larson, Jenna Dâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Amore, Shaila Rodriguez, Blake Swayne Missing from photo: Ayesha Austin, Valerie DeVos, Rebekah Quinn, Deborah Remis (Advisor)

Yearbook

Back Row: Jonathan Border, Shaun Fisher, Nick Miller, Shawn Ray and Brandon Gomez Front Row: Kristi Mosholder (Advisor), Isabella DiRenzo, Ruth Nieliwocki Alyssa Hulme and Dana Dailey (Advisor)

1st S e m e s t e r

2nd

Back Row: Zion Harper, Brandon Gomez, Shawn Ray, and Nick Bertone Front Row: Kristi Mosholder (Advisor), Ruth Nieliwocki, Alyssa Hulme, Dennita Lewis, Katie Holtzman, Dana Dailey (Advisor) Missing from photo: Nick Miller

S e m e s t e r

Chess Team

Back Row: Noah McAuley, James Carr, Carl Bradshaw Front Row: Cristian Baang, Destiny Mendel, Victoria Pryor and Caleb Hawkins Missing from Photo: Debbie Husar and Cassie Beveridge (Advisors)

Academic Bowl

Back Row: Cassie Friday, Samantha Gibbs, Rain Kelly, and Ruth Nieliwocki Front Row: Julie Ann Mountain (Advisor) and Amy Wing (Advisor)

Running Club

Left to Right: Nick Miller, Brandon Gomez, Nick Bertone, Michael Prezioso (Advisor)

Space Camp

Left to Right: Angelina Baker, Maleek Washington and James Carr Missing from Photo: Erin McNeil-Mascaro (Advisor)

Jr. Nad

Left to Right: Kristi Mosholder (Advisor), Isabella DiRenzo, Alyssa Hulme, Tori Reeves, Katie Holtzman, Kai Miller, Cassie Friday, and Dana Dailey (Advisor)

SBG

Back Row: Dajion Dixon, Pauline Dunbar (Advisor), Travis Frye Front Row: Katie Holtzman and Kai Miller

Varisty Letter Club

Back Row: Kyle D’Amore, Shaun Fisher, Chad D’Amore, Nick Miller Front Row: Shawn Ray, Seth Reeves, Justin Warke, Dajion Dixon Missing from photo: Antoine Hunter and Advisors - Val Wojton, George D’Amore, and David Tasselli

girls’ athletic association

Back Row: Cassie Friday, Cheyenne Sloan, Alyssa Hulme, Emily Reno, Jia Fei Reeves, Cruzer Front Row: Erin McNeil-Mascaro (Advisor), Kai Miller, Destiny Tanner, Tori Reeves, Krista Foster, Mary Agnes Connor Behanna (Advisor)

wpsd news 1st

Back Row: Shaun Fisher, Christian Cross, Noah McAuley, Jonathan Border and Carl Bradshaw Front Row: Isabella DiRenzo and Fauntaye Bryant

S e m e s t e r

2nd

Back Row: Alexandra Francis, Dennita Lewis, Kyle Keracher, Kyle D’Amore, Chad D’Amore, Antoine Hunter, and Zion Harper Front Row: Destiny Tanner, Cassie Friday, Justin Warke and Tori Reeves

S e m e s t e r

Walking Club

Back Row: Keith Strominger and RaeQuawn Simmons Front Row: Patty Greeno (Advisor), Katelyn Frenchak, Cheyenne Solomon, Sara Ritchey and Gina McDonald (Advisor)

Language Lab

Back Row: Rosie Noschese (Advisor) and Patty Greeno (Advisor) Middle Row: Lori Cain (Advisor), Kyrey Therrien, Jared Price, Jreem Abercrombie, Dale D’Angelo Jr., Dalton D’Angelo, Isolde Rittenberger and Jerrell Carr Front Row: Erin Medley (Advisor), Gia Pinto, Elisha Querry, Jacob Brand, Isabella Baker, Mackenzie Hadix, Amy Forrester

Girl Scouts

Back Row: Amy Forrester, Zoe Austin, Olivia Clinger, Valerie DeVos, Claudia Chiusano Front Row: Truly Austin, Kyrey Therrien, Makenna Hager, Sarah Vogel, Elsie Olwal and Sierra Woodford

Missing from photo: Maureen Reilly-Price (Advisor)

Boy Scouts

Back Row: Maleek Washington, Caleb Hawkins, Braden Elliott, and Michael Cox Front Row: Blake Swayne, Bernie Elliott, and Morkos Youssef Missing from photo: Gary Freilino (Advisor)

Pottery Club

Back Row: Fran Jolly (Advisor), Emily Lamb, Samantha Gibbs, Donna Weiss (Advisor) Front Row: Sierra Woodford, Derek Forrester, Xiaoli Carr

Craft Club

Left to Right: Samantha Gibbs, Colleen McHale, Sara Ritchey and Alice Mentzer (Advisor)

Peer Mentors

Back Row: Samantha Gibbs, Katie Holtzman, Cassie Friday, Isabella DiRenzo and Alyssa Hulme Front Row: Rain Kelly, Nick Bertone and Emily Reno

Battle of the books

Left to Right: Lara Geary, Emily Oesterling, Olivia Larson and Xiaoli Carr Missing from the photo: Mary Noschese (Advisor)

Photography Club

Back Row: Maleek Washington, Venita Smith (Advisor) and Braden Elliott Front Row: Bernie Elliott and Morkos Youssef

Independent Living Program

Back Row: Venita Smith, Nick Miller, Jonathan Border, Travis Frye, Kai Miller, Krystal Lash, Nick Bertone, and David Strait Middle Row: Shaun Fisher, Katie Holtzman, Cheyenne Solomon and Dajion Dixon Front Row: Emily Reno and Alyssa Hulme

Residence Council

Back Row: Christian Cross, Shaun Fisher, Justin Warke, Cassie Friday, Samantha Gibbs, Ryane Smalley and Isabella DiRenzo Front Row: Nick Bertone and Derek Forrester

Class of 2018

Back Row: Zion Harper (Vice President), Cassie Friday (President), Tori Reeves (Secretary) and Kyle Dâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Amore (Treasurer) Front Row: Montae Jackson and Paola Camacho (Sergeant of Arms) Missing from Photo: Kathy Bartholow, Kathy Betz, and Tom Sage (Advisors)

Class of 2017

Back Row: Tony Dumblosky (Advisor), Nick Bertone (Treasurer), Noah McAuley (Sergeant at Arms) and Carolyn Kirkpatrick (Advisor) Front Row: Rain Kelly (Secretary), Iris Hereford (President) and Cheyenne Thompson (Vice President)

class of 2016

Back Row: Mary Agnes Connor Behanna (Advisor), Jodi Reeves (Advisor), Dajion Dixon and Travis Frye (Sergeant at Arms) Front Row: Alyssa Hulme (Treasurer), Katie Holtzman (Vice President), Cheyenne Solomon (Secretary), Kai Miller (President) and Valentine Wojton III (Advisor)

Math Team

Left to Right: Emily Oesterling, Xiaoli Carr, Derek Forrester, Danielle Fisher and Debbie Husar (Advisor)

battle bots

Left to Right: John Foust (Advisor), Nick Miller, Kendrick Rivers, John Price, Nick Bertone, Justin Cristina, Howard Lin, Nathen Taylor Noll and Tony DiMenno Advisor)

Autographs

L O N D O N

Front to Back - Katie Holtzman, Jia Fei Reeves, Carl Bradshaw, Samantha Gibbs, Cristian Baang, Nick Miller, Shawn Ray, Dajion Dixon On June 12, the WPSD Class of 2016 began their week packed with adventures in London, England. The group included 8 students: Carl, Katie, Jia Fei, Dajion, Shawn, Samantha, Christian, and Nick M. along with 3 supervisors: our principal, Kevin, our nurse, Helen, and our teacher, Dana. Upon arrival, we were all exhausted because of the 8+ hour plane ride but we didn’t get to sleep. We started our trip by walking from our hotel to Hyde Park and Kensington Gardens. Then, we rode the subway, or the “tube” as they call it, to the London Eye and the River Thames. We ended the day at Covent Gardens to shop and watch street performers. We made several more stops throughout the rest of the week. We visited Buckingham Palace to watch the changing of the guards. We were shocked at how many people were there but we later learned that it was the queen’s “official” birthday celebration. We saw the entire royal family, including the queen, and, of course, we enjoyed the traditional changing of the guards. We visited the Tower of London and toured the entire complex. Then we went to see the Tower Bridge before leaving for Greenwich, where we enjoyed a delicious lunch at the Gipsy Moth Restaurant. Then we walked through a long tunnel that goes under the River Thames. To finish off the day, we rode the Emirates Air-Line. We stopped by the Science and Natural History Museum. We also went to the St. James Park and the Parliament Square, where we saw Big Ben. Also, we went to the Westminster Palace, Westminster Abbey, Tate Modern Art Museum, and St. Paul’s Cathedral. Midweek, we visited the financial district of London, where we got to see the various architectural buildings, such as the Gherkin or St. Mary’s Axe, and the Leadenhall Market buildings. We also got to see Sir Christopher Wren’s Monument to the Great Fire of London of the late 1600s, shop at Piccadilly Circus, and visit the Oak Lodge School to tour their art exhibit. After the art show, the students from Oak Lodge prepared a barbecue for us to enjoy. Near the end of the week, we rode a shuttle bus to Harry Potter Studios, where we saw various stages and props used in the films. We also had a chance to go back to the Oak Lodge School to give a presentation to their students about Pittsburgh and WPSD. Then, we joined their art class to make a basic animation, played soccer, or “football” as they call it, and socialize. Finally, it was time to go back home. It was a long flight and the students were thrilled to be back to the comforts of their home environment. During the week, we walked a total of 56 miles. Some of our favorite memories include a lost passport and plane ticket, Dana getting stuck in the subway doors, Nick getting pooped on by a pigeon, Samantha and Katie laughing for hours non-stop because of the lack of sleep, socializing with the students from the Oak Lodge School, the strange toilets, and many many more! ~Samantha Gibbs

“My favorite thing was the London Eye.” ~ Shawn Ray

“London Eye was an amazing ride to see the beautiful city.” ~ Katie Holtzman

“Harry Potter movies are the greatest of all movies so I really enjoyed the HP Studio. I had a great trip to London .” ~ Nick Miller

“My favorite part of the London Trip was going to Camden, hanging out with Katie in the hotel and obsessing with the cool different birds and plants.” ~ Sam Gibbs

“It was fun! I really enjoyed learning a different sign language.” ~ Carl Bradshaw III

“My favorite part of the trip was the beautiful bridges and waterways.” ~ Jia Fei Reeves

“We had the best time when went to Oak Lodge Deaf School. We socialized with new friends, learned some of their British Sign Language and played soccer. I really enjoyed my time with them.” ~ Dajion Dixon

“The best things about London were good food, cool clothes, and different money. I loved it - it was great. It was fun making new friends.” ~ Cristian Baang

Dan Emerick

Fitness Walk

In honor of Dan Emerick

HALLOWEEN

PARTY

Boys’ Team Spirit

Girls’ Team Spirit

Cheerleaders’ Team Spirit

Always remember, Never Forget, WPSD is Number #1!!

LION PROUD!!!!

Homecoming court

HOMECOMING

King- Travis Frye Queen- Kai Miller

Disney Day

Lion Song Class Color Elderly Day

Red + Black= Junior

Pink + White= Senior

Purple=Sophomore

Orange + Grey= Freshmen

Signshine song

Senior Recognition

Katie Holtzman

Nick Miller

Dajion Dixon

JiaFei Reeves

Alyssa Hulme

Emily Reno

Kai Miller

Shawn Ray

VALENTINEâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S

Middle & Elementary

School

DAY PARTY

High

School

NEW YORK

TRIP In February, the 10th graders went to NYC for three days. Even though it rained for two of those days, we had an amazing time. We went shopping, saw the Statue of Liberty, visited museums, saw the September 11th memorial, saw the Blue Man Group perform and ate in Little Italy. Those were just a few of places we stopped on our journey to the Big Apple.

Iris is working on animation design in her Multimedia Design class.

Noah and Rain are working on a poster for open house in their Advertising Design class.

Cristian is fixing the body of a car in Collision Repair Technology.

Cheyenne is learning how to help patients in her Health/ Science Technology class.

Forbes Road Career Technology Center WPSD students have the opportunity to go to Forbes CTC to help prepare for their future careers. They have many different classes including: Multimedia Design, Advertising Design, Collision Repair Technology, and Health/Science Technology.

National Technical Honor Society Three WPSD students became National Technical Honor Society members at Forbes CTC for excellence in their classes.

Principal McDonough, Rain Kelly, Iris Hereford, and Janaya Ray at the National Technical Honor Society Ceremony.

Year in Review NATIONAL NEWS TRENDS ENTERTAINMENT SPORTS SCIENCE/TECHNOLOGY

NATIONAL NEWS

Republicans

Democrats

Astronaut Scott Kelly returns from space after 1 year!

Pope Francis visited the U.S.

People were stuck on the PA turnpike for 2 days during snowstorm Jonas! Zika virus outbreak in the U.S.

FBI vs Apple

ENTERTAINMENT

Is back!!

Pittsburgh Steeler, Antonio Brown, on Dancing with the Stars!

Best-selling album