Voices, a Podcast from the Seneca Valley School District

Explore the exciting world of STEM—Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics, right here at Seneca Valley! In this episode, we're uncovering the wide range of STEM classes, clubs, and activities available to students, plus a sneak peek at the upcoming STEM Alumni event and STEM fair.IN THIS EPISODE, WE WILL REVIEWWhat STEM is and the significant growth in related classes and programs over the yearsThe many ways students can get involved with STEMDetails about Seneca Valley's STEM Alumni event and STEM fairHow STEM skills are preparing students for future careersFor more information about the STEM Alumni event or STEM fair, email Ms. Rebecca Finch at FINCHRS@svsd.net or Ms. Kelly Weston at WESTONKM@svsd.net.SPECIAL GUESTSMs. Kelly Weston, Seneca Valley Senior High School AP Chemistry teacher, Science Department Chair and Sponsor for Science Honor SocietyWith 25 years of teaching experience, including two decades at Seneca Valley, Kelly Weston is a dedicated educator and passionate advocate for science. Currently teaching AP Chemistry, she also serves as the Science Honor Society sponsor and faculty advisor for the PJAS and PRSEF competitions. Her commitment to outreach shines through her organization of elementary STEM activities and mentorship of senior project students as they create their own STEM events. Mrs. Weston loves sharing her enthusiasm for science with learners of all ages, inspiring the next generation of curious minds.Ms. Rebecca Finch, Seneca Valley Senior High School/Anatomy and Molecular Biology TeacherRebecca Finch is in her 32nd year of teaching in the science department of Seneca Valley Senior High School. Throughout her career, she has taught a variety of subjects, including Science and Technology, Horticulture, Biology, Honors Anatomy, and Honors Molecular Biology.  Ms. Finch is also the proud sponsor of the Medical Careers Club, where former STEM students return to engage current students in hands-on career exploration. Additionally, she co-sponsors the Science Honor Society, overseeing both the STEM Fair and annual events featuring STEM alumni.

Did you know there's a historic landmark on SV's secondary campus in Jackson Township that dates back to 1905? In this episode, you’ll learn about the small plot of land that houses a cemetery with 16 graves, all belonging to members of the Knights of Pythias. Join us as we learn more about the cemetery, its residents, and the ongoing efforts to honor and preserve this special part of our community's past. IN THIS EPISODE, WE WILL REVIEWHistoric landmarks on the SV campus dating back to 1905General information about the Knights of Pythias and its grave sites on the secondary campusUnique ways these historic landmarks are utilized as an educational resourceLesser-known facts about the Knights of Pythias SPECIAL GUESTMs. Linda Andreassi, Seneca Valley Communications DirectorLinda Andreassi has been working at Seneca Valley for over 27 years. A graduate of Indiana University of Pennsylvania with a Bachelor's Degree in Journalism, Ms. Andreassi has previous experience in the newspaper industry where she was a reporter and editor. She has over 60 awards for excellence in public relations programs and publications from such organizations as Pennsylvania School Boards Association (PSBA), Pennsylvania School Public Relations Association (PenSPRA) and National School Public Relations Association (NSPRA).Ms. Andreassi is responsible for all District written and electronic publications, as well as communications through the mass parent notification system. She also manages the District website, social media sites, "Voices" Podcast series, mobile app, and serves as the press spokesperson for Seneca Valley. Additional department responsibilities include press releases, annual report development, marketing and promotion of the District and managing advertising for the website, e-newsletter and districtwide calendar.

Lace up your sneakers for the 2nd Annual Ryan Gloyer Memorial Run (5K Run/Walk), Sunday, Nov. 3 on SV's Secondary Campus in Harmony, PA. In this episode, you'll learn more about the event, how to register and the overall mission of the Ryan Gloyer Memorial Run.IN THIS EPISODE, WE WILL REVIEWWhat is the Ryan Gloyer Memorial Run?Where and when the event will take place and who can participate. The mission of the Ryan Gloyer Memorial Run.What the event proceeds go toward?How can someone register for the event.SPECIAL GUESTMs. Annie Mersing, Seneca Valley Foundation Director of DevelopmentMs. Annie Mersing earned her Bachelor of Science in Business Administration with a Concentration in Management from Robert Morris University. Ms. Mersing has been in the Seneca Valley School District since 2019, first serving as the Executive Assistant to the Superintendent of Schools.  Now in the role as the Director of Development for the Seneca Valley Foundation, Ms. Mersing also serves as the District's Director of Advancement and provides assistance with securing and writing District grants.

Dive into the fascinating world of artificial intelligence and how it's making its way into schools. Listen to discussions about the opportunities for students and educators to learn about AI and its applications along with the guidelines set in place. IN THIS EPISODE, WE WILL REVIEWWhat artificial intelligence and generative AI is and how it's making its way into schools Ongoing professional development related to AI for educatorsGuidelines for use of AI technologies in the school environmentPrivacy and security measures when utilizing AIOpportunities for students to learn about AI and its applicationsSPECIAL GUEST:Dr. Matt McKinley, Seneca Valley Assistant Superintendent for 7-12 Instruction and Mr. Sean VanScoyoc, Director of Information TechnologyDr. Matthew McKinley serves as Assistant Superintendent of Secondary Instruction, grades 7-12. Prior to his assistant role, he served for six years as principal of the Seneca Valley Senior High School. He also served as assistant principal of the Seneca Valley Senior High School and as a mathematics teacher at the same building for six years. Prior to coming to Seneca Valley, Dr. McKinley taught as a mathematics teacher at Mercer Area Junior/Senior High School. He earned his bachelor of art’s degree in mathematics from Grove City College and obtained his Master of Education degree and his Doctor of Education from the University of Pittsburgh. Dr. McKinley developed the Academy of Choice Program in the district, which includes a growing cyber program and a one-of-a kind performing arts department. He is also author of the Seneca Valley Random Drug Testing Policy, which has been lauded locally as well as nationally and was cited as a model program by the White House Drug Policy Council.Mr. Sean VanScoyoc is the Information Technology Director for Seneca Valley School District, a Quad A school district with a host of academic, technical and extracurricular honors and accolades. Mr. VanScoyoc has a Bachelor of Science degree in computer science from Indiana University of Pennsylvania, and has more than 25 years of educational technology experience in non-profit organizations, K-12 schools, higher education, and as an expert consultant. He was recognized as a finalist in “Tech & Learning” Magazine’s Leader of the Year Award and Seneca Valley School District received a Pennsylvania School Board of Association’s Schools of Excellence in Technology Award.

Bring your friends and family and join us for the Inaugural Seneca Valley Best Buddies Walk. This milestone event takes place on June 1, at North Boundary Park and celebrates inclusion and the diverse abilities of individuals, providing a wonderful opportunity to support fundraising efforts for Best Buddies International. IN THIS EPISODE, WE WILL REVIEWOverview of the new Best Buddies chapter at Haine Elementary SchoolVolunteering with Best BuddiesDetails about the upcoming Seneca Valley Best Buddies WalkMission of the Best Buddies WalkHow to register for the Best Buddies Walk, scheduled for Saturday, June 1Seneca Valley Best Buddies Walk (runsignup.com)SPECIAL GUESTDr. Kathy Mahon, School Psychologist and Miss Lucy Martsolf, Seneca Valley fourth grader at Haine Elementary SchoolDr. Kathy Mahon is in her 23rd year as a school psychologist with Seneca Valley. She has a Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology from Mercyhurst University, Master of Education and Specialist Certification in School Psychology from Edinboro University, and Doctor of Education in School Psychology with a neuropsychology specialty from Indiana University of Pennsylvania. She is also the lead advisor for the Best Buddies chapter at Haine Elementary. Miss Lucy Martsolf is a 10-year-old student at Haine Elementary who has been active in the special needs community from a young age. She has volunteered at numerous sensory events through the nonprofit her mother started in honor of her sister in 2016. She has an older sister with autism who she loves very much. They are “best buddies.” Miss Martsolf has demonstrated courage to help individuals who learn differently and respect for those who demonstrate a need for a helping hand.

Navigating the journey for college and career preparations is exciting but can also come with lots of questions. Listen as SV's Coordinator of Collegiate & Career Affairs takes a deep dive into the prospects of the upcoming college and career fair and reviews “SchooLinks,” SV’s new college and career readiness platform.IN THIS EPISODE, WE WILL REVIEWThe role of Coordinator of Collegiate and Career Affairs Top questions that parents ask regarding college and career planning Upcoming College and Career Fair Helpful tips/advice that parents/guardians should know, like SchooLinks, SV’s new college and career readiness platform Student and parent resources available on the website - Guidance / OVERVIEW (svsd.net)SPECIAL GUESTMs. Darla Ramirez-Lightner, Coordinator of Collegiate & Career AffairsMs. Darla Ramirez-Lightner is in her 32nd year at Seneca Valley as a school counselor.  In the Spring of 2019, she transitioned into the Coordinator of Collegiate & Career Affairs for the secondary campus working with the three school counseling offices 7-12. She earned her Bachelor of Arts Degree in Sociology from the University of Pittsburgh, a Master of Education degree with Secondary School Counseling Certification from Indiana University of Pennsylvania, and a Master of Psychology Degree from Grand Canyon University.  Additionally, she holds a College Admissions Counseling Specialist Certificate and Career Development Specialist Certificate. As a proud parent of three students who graduated from Seneca Valley, she offers a dual college and career perspective and has served the Seneca Valley community with experience, passion and enthusiasm.

What is a paraprofessional? Listen to our Voices podcast to learn more about this vital role and the impact these individuals make in supporting our school community. Learn about the skillset and qualifications needed along with our new incentive program.IN THIS EPISODE, WE WILL REVIEWThe job of a paraprofessionalQualifications and skillset needed to become a paraprofessionalDetails about the new paraprofessional incentive programBonuses and other incentives within the new programLearn more about the paraprofessional incentive program:Human Resources / Paraprofessional Incentive Program (svsd.net)SPECIAL GUESTDr. Jeff Roberts, Director of Student Services and Ms. Kyra Bobak, Director of Human Resources  Dr. Jeff Roberts has been an administrator in the Seneca Valley School District since 2009, and currently serves as the Seneca Valley Supervisor of Gifted Education and Student Services. He earned his degree in doctoral studies at Indiana University of Pennsylvania in Administration and Leadership Studies. In addition to supervising gifted education, Mr. Roberts oversees the school counseling, health service and library departments. Dr. Roberts is a graduate of the Leadership Butler County program. He is also currently a member of the Butler County Suicide Prevention Coalition, and a board member of the Butler County Alliance for Children. Ms. Kyra Bobak has over 20 years of experience in education and has been an administrator in Seneca Valley School District since 2006. She served as an assistant principal and then as a principal for Haine Elementary School. She earned her Bachelor of Science degree in Elementary and Early Childhood Education from Edinboro University of Pennsylvania and received her Master’s degree in Administration and Policy Studies from the University of Pittsburgh.

The Seneca Valley School District is one of only four school districts across the country to be recognized as a 2023 Fall "Lighthouse System" by AASA, the School Superintendents Association. Listen as SV superintendents, Dr. Tracy Vitale and Dr. Sean McCarty discuss the details of this prestigious recognition and what it means to Seneca Valley.IN THIS EPISODE, WE WILL REVIEWWhat is the AASA and AASA’s Learning 2025 Network? What is the “Lighthouse” designation and how did SV earn such an award?What is the application process like?What this prestigious recognition means for Seneca Valley.SPECIAL GUESTDr. Tracy Vitale, Seneca Valley Superintendent of SchoolsDr. Sean McCarty, Seneca Valley Assistant Superintendent for K-6 InstructionDr. Tracy Vitale proudly serves as the Superintendent of Schools for Seneca Valley, which is one of the largest public school districts in Western Pennsylvania. Prior to becoming Superintendent in 2011, she was an Assistant Superintendent, Principal and Teacher in urban, rural and suburban environments in Pennsylvania and North Carolina. She has a strong understanding and experience in community relations, public education advocacy, business partnerships and workforce development. She also has an extensive background in personnel selection, training & supervision.Dr. Sean McCarty has held the position of assistant superintendent of elementary education, grades K-6, since 2012. In his role he has expanded the elementary curriculum and added unique courses for the K-6 student. Dr. McCarty has overseen the development and expansion of an elementary foreign language program and is also credited for introducing and initiating the District's Creativity, Innovation & Research Center (CIRC), which serves as a model program for K-6 schools all across the State.

This event is music to our ears! In this episode, we're talking about the 25th Annual Senior Holiday Event. Listen as Mr. Brian Croach, Instrumental Music Teacher for grades 7-12 discusses the details and the additional performances and student artwork that will be on display in celebration of the 25th anniversary of this year’s event. IN THIS EPISODE, WE WILL REVIEWWhat is the Senior Holiday Event?When does the event take place and who can attend?In celebration of the 25th anniversary, what can guests expect from this year's event?RSVPs are required by Dec. 13. Please call 724-452-6040, ext. 0 to reserve your spot.SPECIAL GUESTMr. Brian Croach, Instrumental Music Teacher for grades 7-12Mr. Brian Croach is in his ninth year of teaching and third year at Seneca Valley. He is a band director that works with students in grades 7-12 through various curricular instrumental ensembles such as the 7th grade band, 8th grade band, Symphonic Band, and Concert Winds. He is also the director of the Ryan Gloyer Middle School (RGMS) Jazz Ensemble and is one of the directors for the Roaring Raider Marching Band. Mr. Croach received he undergraduate degree in Music Education from Slippery Rock University and has continued his education through the Instructional Leadership program at Robert Morris University.Additionally, Mr. Jason Shorr, Seneca Valley Intermediate High School and Senior High School Art teacher shared information regarding how guests can expect to see an exhibit of student artwork on display from grades 9-12 at this year's Senior Holiday Event.

Seneca Valley will be hosting an upcoming parent event, "The Power of Prevention: Insights into Youth Substance Abuse and Addiction," on Oct. 25, at 6:30 p.m. in the senior high school auditorium. Listen as Dr. C. Thomas Brophy discusses insights into youth substance abuse and addiction. IN THIS EPISODE, WE WILL REVIEWThe upcoming parent event, "The Power of Prevention: Insights into Youth Substance Abuse and Addiction" Facts about the neuroscience of addictionWhat parents can expect to hear during "The Power of Prevention"Why attend "The Power of Prevention"SPECIAL GUESTDr. C. Thomas BrophyDr. C. Thomas Brophy is one of the regions only physicians board certified in Addiction Medicine as well as Emergency Medicine. He is local to the western PA area, obtained his neuroscience degree from the University of Pittsburgh, and completed his medical residency training at Allegheny General Hospital. With a passion for education, Dr. Brophy has become well known for educating the public as well as medical professionals on the neuroscience of addiction. He is a regular contributor to KDKA radio and has organized and executed over 100 public education seminars on topics related to addiction. His passion for helping addicts started at an early age.  Dr. Brophy has dedicated his life to not only helping those struggling with addiction, but also helping everyone understand the neurophysiology of addiction better, so that we can all be part of the solution. Dr. Brophy began working with the Gaiser Center in 2019 and serves as Medical Director for the facility.

Introducing the inaugural Ryan Gloyer Memorial Run. Listen as the Seneca Valley Foundation Director of Development shares details, what the event proceeds go toward and how participants can register.  This event serves to preserve the legacy of Ryan A. Gloyer - an incredible man and true patriot who made the ultimate sacrifice for our Country when he was killed in action on Nov. 3, 2016 in Afghanistan. It also hopes to bring our SV community together while recognizing ALL veterans who served. Don't miss out on this inspiring race honoring one IN THIS EPISODE, WE WILL REVIEWWhat is the Ryan Gloyer Memorial Run?Where and when the event will take place and who can participate. The mission of the Ryan Gloyer Memorial Run.What the event proceeds go toward?How can someone register for the event.SPECIAL GUESTMs. Annie Mersing, Seneca Valley Foundation Director of DevelopmentMs. Annie Mersing earned her Bachelor of Science in Business Administration with a Concentration in Management from Robert Morris University. Ms. Mersing has been in the Seneca Valley School District since 2019, first serving as the Executive Assistant to the Superintendent of Schools.  Now in the role as the Director of Development for the Seneca Valley Foundation, Ms. Mersing also serves as the District's Director of Advancement and provides assistance with securing and writing District grants.

Students, staff and administrators are working to bring new initiative at the Seneca Valley Intermediate and Senior High Schools, "We are SV." Listen as SV leaders and student representatives discuss the new program and learn why students are so excited about this new program.IN THIS EPISODE, WE WILL REVIEW• How "We are SV" evolved• What students, teacher and community members can expect from "We are SV"• Marketing efforts that are taking place to promote this new initiative• What makes students excited about "We are SV"SPECIAL GUESTSMs. Lisa Graham and Seneca Valley sophomore, Miss Elaina Donahue and junior, Mr. Nolan Aleprete Ms. Lisa Graham is in her sixth year as a school counselor at Seneca Valley Intermediate High School, grades 9-10.  Prior to her position as school counselor, she was an emotional and autistic support teacher in the district at both elementary and secondary levels for 12 years. She has Bachelor of Arts degree in Elementary and Special Education from Mercyhurst University and Master of Science in Counseling Psychology from Chatham University. She has been part of Seneca Valley’s positive behavior intervention and support committees since she began teaching at Seneca Valley and currently serves as the secondary LEAD committee chair. Miss Donahue is a sophomore at Seneca Valley Intermediate High School. She participates in Latin and key club, as well Pom Pons, track and field, and she is also involved in chorus and piano.Mr. Aleprete is a junior at Seneca Valley High School and has been a member of Seneca’s student diversity committee, SHOUT since freshman year. He hopes that his contributions can make Seneca a more inclusive and safe space for all. In his free time, he creates and releases his own music and plans to go to college for music business.

SHOW TOPIC: Introducing 'We are SV' with Ms. Quincy GildeaSPECIAL GUESTSMs. Quincy Gildea, Assistant Principal at Seneca Valley Intermediate High SchoolMs. Quincy Gildea is in her eighth year with the Seneca Valley School District. She has a bachelor’s degree in early childhood education from Penn State University and a Masters of Education degree with principal certification from CALU. She spent her first few years in the district as a second-grade teacher at Connoquenessing Valley Elementary School (CVE) before transitioning last year to the Intermediate High School as one of their Assistant Principals. IN THIS EPISODE, WE WILL REVIEW• A new initiative that Seneca Valley Senior High School and Seneca Valley Intermediate High School have adopted, “We are SV” • Who will be impacted by this new program• The purpose of "We are SV"• What the senior high school and intermediate high school hope to achieve with "We are SV"

SHOW TOPICAthletics & Activities - What's New for the 2023-24 school year with Ms. Heather LewisSPECIAL GUESTSMs. Heather Lewis, Athletics & Activities DirectorMs. Lewis, entering her 12th year as the District’s Athletic & Activities Director, has previous experience as the chief operating officer for USA Field Hockey, a U.S. Olympic & Paralympic National Governing Body. As part of this role, she hosted major events for the International Federation of Hockey, supported the women’s and men’s national teams in international competition, and assisted in the reorganization of the Association’s executive leadership structure. She also has previous experience as the head field hockey coach, head women’s lacrosse coach, associate athletic director and assistant athletic director for Bucknell University in Lewisburg, Pa. Additional experiences include time spent as an official for the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) and president of the National Field Hockey Coaches Association.A former athlete herself, Ms. Lewis was a regional All-American and All-ACC and captain of the field hockey team, and regional All-American and NCAA champion for women’s lacrosse, all while at the University of Maryland, College Park. Ms. Lewis has a bachelor’s of science in zoology and a master’s in kinesiology from the University of Maryland.IN THIS EPISODE, WE WILL REVIEW• Major accomplishments by SV's sports teams from the 2022-23 school year• Welcome, Mr. Eddie Kurtz, Assistant Director of Athletics & Activities • A look back at the first year of the girls’ wrestling season • Introducing a brand-new fieldhouse and press box

SHOW TOPICWhat you need to know: SV Summer Camps with Ms. Amanda MallinSPECIAL GUESTSMs. Amanda Mallin, Seneca Valley Academy of Choice Assistant PrincipalAmanda Mallin is the assistant principal of the Seneca Valley Academy of Choice, working alongside Principal Dr. Denise Manganello. She joined Seneca Valley in 2018 as the assistant principal of the Senior High School. Before that, Amanda worked as a cyber coordinator for a partnering district and gained valuable classroom experience as an emotional support teacher and a learning support teacher. With a degree in psychology and a master’s degree in education, she is dedicated to continuous learning. Ms. Mallin has a strong interest and passion for wellness and mental health.IN THIS EPISODE, WE WILL REVIEW• SV summer camp offerings• Benefits of youth summer camp• Open availability• Deadline for registration and how to sign up

SHOW TOPICLearning about Seneca Valley's JROTC program with Seneca Valley junior, Miss Nina BugganSPECIAL GUESTSMiss Nina Buggan, Seneca Valley juniorMiss Buggan is in her junior year at Seneca Valley and is the current executive officer of SV's JROTC battalion. She is interested in environmental science and zoology and wants to help the planet through animal conservation and creating biotechnology to reduce pollution. Miss Buggan plans to join one of the military branches.IN THIS EPISODE, WE WILL REVIEW• Why Miss Buggan chose to get involved with SV's JROTC program• The most impactful experience Miss Buggan has had within theJROTC program• Why students should consider joining the JROTC• Recommendations to students who are interested in joining the JROTC program

SHOW TOPICLearning about Seneca Valley's JROTC program with First Sergeant (Ret.) Angelo Lettiere and COL Howard KeeblerSPECIAL GUESTSFirst Sergeant (Ret.) Angelo Lettiere III, army instructor for the Seneca Valley JROTCCOL Howard Keebler, senior army instructor for the Seneca Valley JROTC First Sergeant Lettiere is in his 11th year of teaching at Seneca Valley. He has a Bachelor of Science in Behavioral Science from Duquesne University, and he currently serves as the army instructor for the Seneca Valley JROTC. Colonel Howard Keebler is in his first year of teaching at Seneca Valley. He has a Bachelor of Science in Education from Edinboro University and a Masters in Logistics and Material Supply Chain Management from MIT. He currently serves as the senior army instructor for the Seneca Valley JROTC.IN THIS EPISODE, WE WILL REVIEW• The history of SV's JROTC program• How SV students can join JROTC • How students benefit from JROTC• Insightful information for parents

SHOW TOPICSeneca Valley presents 'The Dangers of Tech' with Officer Jason Young and Officer Chris MillerSPECIAL GUESTSOfficer Jason Young, Seneca Valley School District Safety and Security Supervisor and Officer Chris Miller, Seneca Valley Senior High School Student Resource Officer (SRO)Officer Jason Young has previous law enforcement experience as a Police Officer for Jackson Township, as well as eight years working as a Deputy Sheriff for Butler County where he presented the Drug Abuse Resistance Education (D.A.R.E.) program to numerous Butler County public and private schools; organized safety lectures for teachers on active shooters; and field trained new law enforcement deputies. He also worked for nearly ten years with the Saxonburg Borough Police Department where he started as a Patrolman and was later promoted to Patrol Supervisor. Additional service includes his first year as a Patrolman with the Fawn Township Police Department in Tarentum, Pa. His training highlights include Crisis Intervention Training (C.I.T) that focuses on mental health incidents and a Field Training Officer certification through Penn State University. Officer Young earned an Associates Degree in Emergency Services-Police Services Option from Butler County Community College and attended the Municipal Police Academy (ACT 120) at Indiana University of Pennsylvania.Officer Chris Miller has been a Police Officer employed by the Jackson Township Police Department for the last 15 years. He attended the University of Pittsburgh and is a graduate of the Indiana University of Pennsylvania Police Academy Class #63.IN THIS EPISODE, WE WILL REVIEW• The upcoming event, "The Dangers of Tech"• What parents can expect to hear during "The Dangers of Tech"• Online safety and awareness• Why it's important for parents to attend this event

SHOW TOPICPreparing Students for the Workforce with Ms. Jess Pyle and Ms. Angela KotulaSPECIAL GUESTMs. Jess Pyle, Transition Coordinator of Transition Planning, Career, and Vocational Education and Ms. Angela Kotula, parent and Ryan Gloyer Middle School librarian. Ms. Jessica Pyle is in her 18th year teaching at Seneca Valley. She has a Bachelor of Science in Special Education PK-12 and Elementary Education K-6 from Slippery Rock University and a Master of Education in Curriculum and Instruction from Gannon University. She currently serves on the BC3@Cranberry Advisory Board and is a member of the Special Needs Consortium, Tri-County Transition Coordinating Council, Butler County Transition Council and Perkins Committee at BCAVTS. She also serves as a CHS teacher for Robert Morris University. Ms. Angela Kotula is in her 15th of teaching at Seneca Valley.  During that time she taught second grade, 7th grade English, and is currently the librarian at Ryan Gloyer Middle School.  Ms. Kotula graduated of both Robert Morris University and Edinboro University where she received a Bachelor of Science and Master’s in Education.  She has participated in multiple special needs trainings for parents, presented to pre-service teachers about being a parent of a special needs child, and has participated in various podcasts and interviews regarding parenting and special needs. Angela’s eldest son was diagnosed with autism at two and half years old and from that moment on, she became his biggest supporter and helped him take advantage of all the community and school resources possible, especially the Community Based Vocational Training (CBVT) program at Seneca Valley.  As a result, her son is now a productive community member and a competitively employable adult.  IN THIS EPISODE, WE WILL REVIEWResponsibilities of the Coordinator of Transition Planning, Career and Vocation Education  SV's Community Based Vocational Training (CBVT) program A parent's perspective of the CBVT program How the CBVT program prepares students for the workplace

SHOW TOPICPreparing Students for the Workforce with Dr. Regina HilerSPECIAL GUESTDr. Regina Hiler, Butler County Area Vocational-Technical School Executive Director Dr. Hiler is in her 20th year in public education, proudly working in the career and technical education field for the past seventeen years. This is her third year serving as Executive Director at Butler County AVTS. Dr. Hiler received her Ed.D. in Leadership and Administration from Point Park University, Master of Education from Gannon University, and Bachelor of Arts in Secondary English Education from Geneva College. IN THIS EPISODE, WE WILL REVIEWSV's partnership and overview of Butler County Area Vocational-Technical School Hands-on learning and training opportunities at Butler County Vo-Tech Cooperative Education Certifications and Accreditations through Butler County Vo-Tech