This week’s Student Teacher Feature highlights Rachel Kessler, who is currently student teaching in Mrs. Madden’s 3rd grade classroom. Rachel has been gaining valuable hands‑on experience while supporting student learning and classroom instruction. We are excited to share more about her journey in education! ✏️
On April 14 and 15, after a nearly eight‑week learning process, 8th grade students in Mr. Kelchner’s science classes presented their sustainable building design projects to a panel of professional engineers. 🏢
The winning group was selected by a guest engineer acting in the role of the building owner. The team included Lincoln Barnette, Katelyn Brecht, Victoria Haupt, and Joey Serafini.
These students presented their design with impressive knowledge and professionalism, incorporating extensive research on a variety of innovative “smart features.” Their proposal included an outdoor terrace and shifting facades that required complex calculations of total square footage. The group also integrated a wide range of carefully selected energy‑saving systems and modern amenities while still remaining under the project’s $20 million budget.
Their “design firm” ultimately won the contract by clearly demonstrating how their systems would reduce operating costs through decreased electricity and water usage. They supported their recommendations with calculated cost reductions to justify each design choice. In addition, the group went above and beyond by consulting professional environmental scientists to learn about stormwater drainage, erosion control, and the use of porous concrete.
Among several prizes, the winning students will have their names engraved on the classroom trophy that recognizes all past winners of the competition. 🏆
A sincere thank you goes out to the guest judges who generously shared their time and expertise over the two‑day event. Judges included Eric Fedder, 2005 SCA Valedictorian, architectural engineer, and senior project manager for Project Management Advisors Inc. (San Diego, CA); John Kelchner, retired electrical engineer and former President and CEO of Citizens’ Electric Power Company (Lewisburg, PA); and Noah Blusius, SCA alumnus, architectural engineer, and project engineer for Alexander Building Company (Harrisburg, PA).
Congratulations to all 8th grade students for their outstanding effort, teamwork, and success on this rigorous, real‑world engineering challenge. 🏫
The winning group was selected by a guest engineer acting in the role of the building owner. The team included Lincoln Barnette, Katelyn Brecht, Victoria Haupt, and Joey Serafini.
These students presented their design with impressive knowledge and professionalism, incorporating extensive research on a variety of innovative “smart features.” Their proposal included an outdoor terrace and shifting facades that required complex calculations of total square footage. The group also integrated a wide range of carefully selected energy‑saving systems and modern amenities while still remaining under the project’s $20 million budget.
Their “design firm” ultimately won the contract by clearly demonstrating how their systems would reduce operating costs through decreased electricity and water usage. They supported their recommendations with calculated cost reductions to justify each design choice. In addition, the group went above and beyond by consulting professional environmental scientists to learn about stormwater drainage, erosion control, and the use of porous concrete.
Among several prizes, the winning students will have their names engraved on the classroom trophy that recognizes all past winners of the competition. 🏆
A sincere thank you goes out to the guest judges who generously shared their time and expertise over the two‑day event. Judges included Eric Fedder, 2005 SCA Valedictorian, architectural engineer, and senior project manager for Project Management Advisors Inc. (San Diego, CA); John Kelchner, retired electrical engineer and former President and CEO of Citizens’ Electric Power Company (Lewisburg, PA); and Noah Blusius, SCA alumnus, architectural engineer, and project engineer for Alexander Building Company (Harrisburg, PA).
Congratulations to all 8th grade students for their outstanding effort, teamwork, and success on this rigorous, real‑world engineering challenge. 🏫
Next week's Alternate Lunch at GC Hartman Elem will now be a Hamburger on a Bun. Our apologies for the abrupt menu change. Thank you!
🌟 SoCo Stars – 8th Grade 🌟
Southern Columbia proudly recognizes the following 8th Grade students as March SoCo Stars for their achievements, leadership, and character:
🔬 Science – Colton Beers
Colton Beers was selected as the March SoCo Star for Science. He demonstrated strong leadership during a building design project, contributing creative ideas and keeping his group focused and organized. Colton is also known for his kindness, respect, and positive influence in the classroom.
📚 SoCo Star – Kate Brecht
Kate Brecht was recognized as a March SoCo Star for her academic excellence and outstanding character. She consistently completes high‑quality work while balancing a busy schedule of extracurricular activities. Kate is also admired for standing up for others and showing integrity and courage.
➗ Mathematics – Tori Haupt
Tori earned the March SoCo Star recognition for Mathematics. She has shown exceptional performance in Algebra, earning near‑perfect scores while remaining engaged and responsible. Tori’s strong critical‑thinking skills and ability to balance academics with athletics set her apart.
✍️ ELA – Rayne Sharkuski
Rayne Sharkuski was named the March SoCo Star for English Language Arts. She is recognized for her persistence, willingness to take on challenges, and strong work ethic. Rayne collaborates well with others, asks thoughtful questions, and takes responsibility for her learning.
👏 Congratulations to these outstanding 8th grade SoCo Stars! Keep up the great work.
Southern Columbia proudly recognizes the following 8th Grade students as March SoCo Stars for their achievements, leadership, and character:
🔬 Science – Colton Beers
Colton Beers was selected as the March SoCo Star for Science. He demonstrated strong leadership during a building design project, contributing creative ideas and keeping his group focused and organized. Colton is also known for his kindness, respect, and positive influence in the classroom.
📚 SoCo Star – Kate Brecht
Kate Brecht was recognized as a March SoCo Star for her academic excellence and outstanding character. She consistently completes high‑quality work while balancing a busy schedule of extracurricular activities. Kate is also admired for standing up for others and showing integrity and courage.
➗ Mathematics – Tori Haupt
Tori earned the March SoCo Star recognition for Mathematics. She has shown exceptional performance in Algebra, earning near‑perfect scores while remaining engaged and responsible. Tori’s strong critical‑thinking skills and ability to balance academics with athletics set her apart.
✍️ ELA – Rayne Sharkuski
Rayne Sharkuski was named the March SoCo Star for English Language Arts. She is recognized for her persistence, willingness to take on challenges, and strong work ethic. Rayne collaborates well with others, asks thoughtful questions, and takes responsibility for her learning.
👏 Congratulations to these outstanding 8th grade SoCo Stars! Keep up the great work.
Good Evening!
Please see the attached letter from the Superintendent to the Southern Columbia Community regarding the current transportation contract.
Thank you!
Please see the attached letter from the Superintendent to the Southern Columbia Community regarding the current transportation contract.
Thank you!
Students in the Childcare & Education class within the Education and Childcare CTE programs participated in learning beyond the classroom during a visit to the Danville Child Development Center today. During the visit, students viewed a presentation from the program director that explained the ins and outs of operating a childcare center. Students also toured the facility and had the opportunity to observe and interact with children of various age groups.
Students from Ms. Zysset’s class visited Mrs. Sharrow’s kindergarten class to make Earth Day headbands together. The classes meet once a month to learn from one another and build meaningful connections across grade levels. This visit was a great example of kids helping kids learn in a fun and engaging way. 🌱🌍🎨
HS Art Club spent Earth Day at Rohrbach’s Farm, painting interactive props for the children’s garden. It was a wonderful opportunity for our students to share their creativity beyond the school walls. Great job to everyone involved! 🌍🌱🎨
In the activity “Acid Test,” 5th grade students discovered two ways to detect acids. They used baking soda, which fizzes when mixed with acids, and a special liquid that changes color when mixed with acids. Students then applied these methods to identify common foods that are acidic.
Southern Columbia is proud to announce that Alasia Gaines has been selected as a 2026 Journey Bank Teen Star Musical Competition finalist. Alasia will return to the Teen Star stage once again, continuing to represent Southern Columbia with talent and professionalism as a wonderful ambassador for the program.
The Teen Star finale will take place this Sunday, April 26, at 2:00 pm at the Haas Center for the Arts on the campus of Commonwealth University Bloomsburg. Community members, families, and students are encouraged to attend and cheer on our finalist.
Tickets are available for $5 in advance at any Journey Bank branch office and for $7 at the door on the day of the show. All ticket proceeds are donated directly to the music departments at the finalists’ high schools, so attendance supports both our students and our arts programs. 🎶
The Teen Star finale will take place this Sunday, April 26, at 2:00 pm at the Haas Center for the Arts on the campus of Commonwealth University Bloomsburg. Community members, families, and students are encouraged to attend and cheer on our finalist.
Tickets are available for $5 in advance at any Journey Bank branch office and for $7 at the door on the day of the show. All ticket proceeds are donated directly to the music departments at the finalists’ high schools, so attendance supports both our students and our arts programs. 🎶
Dear Parents/Guardians,
Unfortunately, when students logged on this morning to begin their PSSA testing, they were unable to access the test. As a result, testing has been canceled for today. We plan to resume testing tomorrow, with the ELA tests scheduled for Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday. Please note that this schedule is dependent on the DRC system being fully operational. This issue is not related to Southern Columbia’s systems. It is a statewide problem, and many districts are experiencing the same situation.
Thank you for your patience and understanding.
Unfortunately, when students logged on this morning to begin their PSSA testing, they were unable to access the test. As a result, testing has been canceled for today. We plan to resume testing tomorrow, with the ELA tests scheduled for Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday. Please note that this schedule is dependent on the DRC system being fully operational. This issue is not related to Southern Columbia’s systems. It is a statewide problem, and many districts are experiencing the same situation.
Thank you for your patience and understanding.
Macy Troup was recognized as our Citizen of the Month at last night’s school board meeting. She consistently demonstrates outstanding character, responsibility, and kindness, making a positive impact on our school community every day. We are proud to celebrate her achievement!
Shape learning has been so much fun in Miss Haines’ class! Kindergarten students have been busy exploring, creating, and building both 2D and 3D shapes through a variety of hands-on activities. From designing delicious 2D shape pizzas and building flat shapes with toothpicks and marshmallows to constructing 3D shapes with Model Magic clay and using pattern blocks to create fun, imaginative objects, these little learners are strengthening their math skills while having a blast. Way to go, friends! 💛🐯
Parents/Guardians of Students in Grades 3–8,
Our PSSA testing will begin on Tuesday, April 21. Please review the testing schedule below:
PSSA Testing Schedule
Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday (April 21–23): ELA
Monday and Tuesday (April 27–28): Math
Wednesday and Thursday (April 29–30): Science (Grades 5 and 8 only)
Please ensure that students are well rested and prepared for testing each day. We truly appreciate the continued support of our families during this important educational time.
Thank you for your partnership.
Our PSSA testing will begin on Tuesday, April 21. Please review the testing schedule below:
PSSA Testing Schedule
Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday (April 21–23): ELA
Monday and Tuesday (April 27–28): Math
Wednesday and Thursday (April 29–30): Science (Grades 5 and 8 only)
Please ensure that students are well rested and prepared for testing each day. We truly appreciate the continued support of our families during this important educational time.
Thank you for your partnership.
The Class of 2026 made the most of an unforgettable senior trip to Boston this weekend!
Thursday was filled with history and exploration as students walked the iconic Freedom Trail, spent time at Quincy Market, and experienced the city from both land and water on a Duck Tour along the Charles River.
On Friday, the group visited the New England Aquarium and enjoyed free time around the city before heading to Fenway Park, where they witnessed an unforgettable Boston Red Sox walk-off win in the 10th inning.
The trip concluded with a day of thrills at Six Flags New England before the group began their 6-hour journey home.
This incredible experience was made possible through four years of fundraising by students and their families, along with the generous support of the Catawissa VFW.
A special thank you to Miss Stine, Mrs. Schwalm, and Mrs. Roughton for their dedication to this class and for helping make this trip possible. We also extend our appreciation to Mr. Roughton, Mrs. Jones, and Mr. Jones for chaperoning this experience.
Thursday was filled with history and exploration as students walked the iconic Freedom Trail, spent time at Quincy Market, and experienced the city from both land and water on a Duck Tour along the Charles River.
On Friday, the group visited the New England Aquarium and enjoyed free time around the city before heading to Fenway Park, where they witnessed an unforgettable Boston Red Sox walk-off win in the 10th inning.
The trip concluded with a day of thrills at Six Flags New England before the group began their 6-hour journey home.
This incredible experience was made possible through four years of fundraising by students and their families, along with the generous support of the Catawissa VFW.
A special thank you to Miss Stine, Mrs. Schwalm, and Mrs. Roughton for their dedication to this class and for helping make this trip possible. We also extend our appreciation to Mr. Roughton, Mrs. Jones, and Mr. Jones for chaperoning this experience.
The SCASD Board of Directors will hold the following meetings this evening in the High School Library: 6:00pm – Activates Committee Meeting, 6:30pm – Curriculum Committee, 7:00pm – School Board Meeting. The meetings will be live streamed on the SCASD YouTube Channel.
YouTube Live Link: https://www.youtube.com/watch/7a7hp3x7BYo
Board Docs: https://go.boarddocs.com/pa/scol/Board.nsf/goto?open&id=DT5LKC56E9FA
YouTube Live Link: https://www.youtube.com/watch/7a7hp3x7BYo
Board Docs: https://go.boarddocs.com/pa/scol/Board.nsf/goto?open&id=DT5LKC56E9FA
Bus 7 will be on a 1 hour delay this morning, Monday, April 20.
Learning looks even better outdoors! Ms. Merook’s class earned a Good Behavior Pick and celebrated with a nature walk, spotting frogs, toads, egg sacs, and even a snake on a beautiful day full of fun and exploration. Meanwhile, Ms. Maley’s 2nd grade class took their talents outside, soaking up the sunshine during music class. The birds, worms, and butterflies were the perfect audience! 🎶🌿
The Class of 2029 recently hosted the annual Daddy Daughter Dance. The evening was filled with smiles, dancing, snacks, sparkle, and special moments. The girls enjoyed photo opportunities, dancing the night away, tasty treats, hair tinsel, and lots of glitter with their favorite guys at the Daddy Daughter Dance. The event was held as a fundraiser for the Class of 2029. ✨
Congratulations to the Southern Columbia Junior Prom Court and Senior Prom Court!
Junior Prom Court
Front Row: Hayden Brandon, Destiny Deeter, Makenna Golden, Kylee Henry, Addison Rarig, Audrey Reuter
Back Row: Levi Everitt, Ayden Hockenbroch, Blaise Kissinger, Jace Malakoski, Joe Williams, Kaden Zachman
Senior Prom Court
Front Row: Lola Cecco, Kylah Heath, Liana Murphy, Makenzi Pfirman, Emma Potter, Leah Sheriff
Back Row: Cole Bixler, Braylon Feese, Benjamin Gehret, Braydon Griscavage, Rowen Humphrey, Parker Pesarchick
Junior Prom Court
Front Row: Hayden Brandon, Destiny Deeter, Makenna Golden, Kylee Henry, Addison Rarig, Audrey Reuter
Back Row: Levi Everitt, Ayden Hockenbroch, Blaise Kissinger, Jace Malakoski, Joe Williams, Kaden Zachman
Senior Prom Court
Front Row: Lola Cecco, Kylah Heath, Liana Murphy, Makenzi Pfirman, Emma Potter, Leah Sheriff
Back Row: Cole Bixler, Braylon Feese, Benjamin Gehret, Braydon Griscavage, Rowen Humphrey, Parker Pesarchick
