Grandparents Day celebrations kicked off Friday at the elementary school with 4th Grade students welcoming their grandparents for a fun morning visit. The festivities continue today with Kindergarten and 1st Grade and will wrap up tomorrow with 2nd and 3rd Grade.
During Friday’s event, everyone enjoyed playing bingo, working on arts and crafts, and spending quality time together. The day ended with a sweet treat of milk and cookies, making it a warm and cheerful experience for all.
Contributors: Hayden Brandon and Lucy Leffler, Journalism Staff Members
During Friday’s event, everyone enjoyed playing bingo, working on arts and crafts, and spending quality time together. The day ended with a sweet treat of milk and cookies, making it a warm and cheerful experience for all.
Contributors: Hayden Brandon and Lucy Leffler, Journalism Staff Members
Last week, members of the Southern Columbia Varsity Club volunteered their time at the Senior Expo held at Knoebels, hosted by Senator Lynda Culver and PA State Representative JoAnne Stehr. The event welcomed seniors and their families to explore valuable services and products designed for older residents, and our students represented the club and their sports teams with pride while demonstrating its mission to foster school spirit, sportsmanship, and positive community relationships.
Representing Southern Columbia at this event were Kaden Zachman (Football), Jake Gehret (Soccer), Joe Williams (Football), Jace Malakoski (Football), Blaise Kissinger (Football), and Ayden Hockenbroch (Football).
Representing Southern Columbia at this event were Kaden Zachman (Football), Jake Gehret (Soccer), Joe Williams (Football), Jace Malakoski (Football), Blaise Kissinger (Football), and Ayden Hockenbroch (Football).
During National "Start With Hello Week" last week, the Students Against Violence Everywhere (SAVE) club at Southern Columbia took the initiative to organize a memorable event to promote kindness and inclusivity. The entire school district gathered at the stadium, where they participated in a large-scale human formation to spell out "HELLO SCA" on the football field. Students and staff from all schools within the district participated in forming each letter. The event was orchestrated with precision as everyone took their respective places. Once the letters were formed, a drone captured the image from above, making for an impressive display. This event served as a powerful symbol of community spirit and the importance of simple gestures like a friendly "hello." It reflected the commitment of the district to fostering a welcoming environment for all.
Contributor: Maddison Yost, Print/Digital Media Intern
Contributor: Maddison Yost, Print/Digital Media Intern
💬 Have a question for Mrs. Shupp on Monday Night?
Submit your questions ahead of time using the following form: https://forms.office.com/r/0Byt3rJRZr?origin=lprLink
Mrs. Shupp will address these questions collectively in her presentation on Monday Night in the High School Auditorium at 6:00 PM.
Let’s give Mrs. Shupp a warm Southern welcome and show her the strength of our school spirit! We look forward to seeing you there!
Submit your questions ahead of time using the following form: https://forms.office.com/r/0Byt3rJRZr?origin=lprLink
Mrs. Shupp will address these questions collectively in her presentation on Monday Night in the High School Auditorium at 6:00 PM.
Let’s give Mrs. Shupp a warm Southern welcome and show her the strength of our school spirit! We look forward to seeing you there!
Celebrating Constitution Day: Creativity and Critical Thinking in Our Classrooms
On September 17th, our history classes celebrated National Constitution Day, an initiative to deepen students' understanding of the U.S. Constitution, signed in 1787.
In Mrs. Long and Mrs. Hoffman's classes, students participated in a creative project by selecting amendments randomly and illustrating their purposes. This activity helped students engage with constitutional concepts in an artistic and memorable way.
Mr. Lindenmuth, on the other hand, facilitated a discussion on the constitution's importance and students' rights in schools. By examining significant court cases, students learned how rights are interpreted and adjusted within the educational environment to ensure safety and effective learning.
Contributor: Emily Valencik, Journalism Staff Member
On September 17th, our history classes celebrated National Constitution Day, an initiative to deepen students' understanding of the U.S. Constitution, signed in 1787.
In Mrs. Long and Mrs. Hoffman's classes, students participated in a creative project by selecting amendments randomly and illustrating their purposes. This activity helped students engage with constitutional concepts in an artistic and memorable way.
Mr. Lindenmuth, on the other hand, facilitated a discussion on the constitution's importance and students' rights in schools. By examining significant court cases, students learned how rights are interpreted and adjusted within the educational environment to ensure safety and effective learning.
Contributor: Emily Valencik, Journalism Staff Member
On Wednesday, FBLA students and advisors stayed after school to take part in a service project: creating handmade cards for children who are hospitalized. Students designed both cheerful, everyday cards as well as festive Halloween-themed ones, each filled with messages of encouragement and kindness. The finished cards were sent to Cards for Hospitalized Kids, a national organization that delivers cards to children in hospitals and to families staying in Ronald McDonald Houses across all 50 states. This is FBLA's second year partnering with this organization, and members were eager to continue spreading joy and positivity.
FBLA advisor Mrs. Long shared why this project is so meaningful: "Many of these children are facing serious and even terminal illnesses, so to be able to put a smile on their faces is magical. Part of being a leader is giving back to others."
Through this project, FBLA students demonstrated not only creativity, but also compassion and leadership—reminding us all how small acts of kindness can make a big difference.
Contributors: Karlene Wiehe, Kylee Henry, and Brooke Knorr, Journalism Staff Members
FBLA advisor Mrs. Long shared why this project is so meaningful: "Many of these children are facing serious and even terminal illnesses, so to be able to put a smile on their faces is magical. Part of being a leader is giving back to others."
Through this project, FBLA students demonstrated not only creativity, but also compassion and leadership—reminding us all how small acts of kindness can make a big difference.
Contributors: Karlene Wiehe, Kylee Henry, and Brooke Knorr, Journalism Staff Members
Southern Columbia Area School District is accepting applications for the following positions:
Girls Wrestling Head Coach
Girls Track & Field Head Coach
Boys Track & Field Head Coach
Varsity Track & Field Assistant Coach
Multiple Substitute Positions
Please visit www.scasd.us and click on the employment tab for more information.
Girls Wrestling Head Coach
Girls Track & Field Head Coach
Boys Track & Field Head Coach
Varsity Track & Field Assistant Coach
Multiple Substitute Positions
Please visit www.scasd.us and click on the employment tab for more information.
🏀 Elementary Girls Basketball Skill Development Program – Fall 2025!
Southern Columbia Girls Basketball is launching a skill-building program for girls in Grades K–6, led by one of the staff coaches, Shannon Dickey, and supported by other staff and high school players. Sessions begin late October and run through December, focusing on fundamentals, scrimmaging, and 3-on-3 play.
📍Held at G.C. Hartman Elementary
💰 Affordable registration
🎯 Building pride, family, and future Lady Tigers!
📅 Sign up by September 30
🔗 Full details & registration info: See the attached letter
Southern Columbia Girls Basketball is launching a skill-building program for girls in Grades K–6, led by one of the staff coaches, Shannon Dickey, and supported by other staff and high school players. Sessions begin late October and run through December, focusing on fundamentals, scrimmaging, and 3-on-3 play.
📍Held at G.C. Hartman Elementary
💰 Affordable registration
🎯 Building pride, family, and future Lady Tigers!
📅 Sign up by September 30
🔗 Full details & registration info: See the attached letter
Our high school Ag "Farm to Table" students learned all about soil and then brought their knowledge to life by creating children's books as a class project. To wrap it up, they presented their books to Second Grade students yesterday. 🌽
In every school community, there are moments that reveal the true character of its students. Recently, one such moment reminded us just how strong, compassionate, and courageous our students can be.
What began as a routine school day quickly turned into a powerful example of leadership and bravery. Just a mile from the school, a bus carrying students rolled over shortly after departure.
Within minutes, help arrived—not just from emergency responders, but from within the student body itself.
Student first responders Cam Traugh, Ryan Davis, Russell Longenberger, Aidyn McHale, Chase Compton, Holly Schmidt, and one of our own from Columbia-Montour AVTS, Zachary Rodgers, responded immediately and sprang into action. Trained and prepared, they rushed to the scene, offering calm, care, and critical support to those in need.
But the bravery didn’t stop there.
Inside the overturned bus, two high school students—Grayson Reck and Lillian Hinkle—acted with instinct and heart. Grayson opened the back hatch, creating a path for students to escape. Along with him, Lillian focused on guiding kids out with care and ensuring their safety.
In a moment defined by fear and uncertainty, these students showed what true leadership and compassion look like. Their actions were not rehearsed or expected; they were real, raw, and deeply human.
As the community reflects on that day, one thing is clear: courage doesn’t always wear a uniform. Sometimes, it walks in the same halls, sits in the same classrooms, and rides the same buses. And sometimes, it rises when we need it most.
Contributor: Maddison Yost, Print/Digital Media Intern
What began as a routine school day quickly turned into a powerful example of leadership and bravery. Just a mile from the school, a bus carrying students rolled over shortly after departure.
Within minutes, help arrived—not just from emergency responders, but from within the student body itself.
Student first responders Cam Traugh, Ryan Davis, Russell Longenberger, Aidyn McHale, Chase Compton, Holly Schmidt, and one of our own from Columbia-Montour AVTS, Zachary Rodgers, responded immediately and sprang into action. Trained and prepared, they rushed to the scene, offering calm, care, and critical support to those in need.
But the bravery didn’t stop there.
Inside the overturned bus, two high school students—Grayson Reck and Lillian Hinkle—acted with instinct and heart. Grayson opened the back hatch, creating a path for students to escape. Along with him, Lillian focused on guiding kids out with care and ensuring their safety.
In a moment defined by fear and uncertainty, these students showed what true leadership and compassion look like. Their actions were not rehearsed or expected; they were real, raw, and deeply human.
As the community reflects on that day, one thing is clear: courage doesn’t always wear a uniform. Sometimes, it walks in the same halls, sits in the same classrooms, and rides the same buses. And sometimes, it rises when we need it most.
Contributor: Maddison Yost, Print/Digital Media Intern
Congratulations to this week’s standout athletes—Olivia Rhoads, Jake Gehret, Harper Thompson, Vivien Miller, and John Quinton—recognized for their dedication, performance, and leadership both on and off the field. Keep up the great work, Tigers!
The SCASD Board of Directors will hold the following meetings this evening in the High School Library: 6:30pm - Curriculum, 7:00pm – The Monthly Board Meeting. The meeting will be live streamed on the SCASD YouTube Channel.
YouTube Live Link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F4HmEZyV4yI
Board Docs: https://go.boarddocs.com/pa/scol/Board.nsf/goto?open&id=DKPPB3639386
YouTube Live Link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F4HmEZyV4yI
Board Docs: https://go.boarddocs.com/pa/scol/Board.nsf/goto?open&id=DKPPB3639386
The Southern Columbia Tigers football team defeated the Mount Carmel Red Tornadoes 49-16 in a dominant performance under the lights on Friday night. The Tigers showcased unity and precision, especially in the second half, scoring touchdowns on four straight possessions.
Brayden Andrews and Talon Piatt each contributed two touchdowns. Andrews also returned a punt 51 yards for a score and rushed for 113 yards. Piatt added two rushing TDs. Grady Garcia, Jace Malakoski (on a 42-yard reception from Ayden Hockenbroch), and Gavin Brown each added one touchdown. Hockenbroch also completed a 2-point conversion.
Caden Hopper and Brayden Andrews both had long runs, each nearing 60 yards, helping to shift momentum in the Tigers’ favor.
Contributor: Kayelle Laubach, Journalism Staff Member
Monday kicked off SAVE's Start With Hello Week—a week dedicated to kindness, connection, and building a stronger school community. Each day is filled with fun spirit days designed to inspire students to reach out, say hello, and form new friendships.
On Monday during homeroom, every student received a name tag to display their name, encouraging them to step outside their comfort zone and meet someone new. Mrs. Borys, SAVE Club advisor, explained why this week matters so much, sharing that Start With Hello Week is a "national call to action week to promote belonging and unity in the school community."
Contributors: Karlene Wiehe, Alana Reuter, Brooke Knorr, and Kylee Henry, Journalism Staff Members
On Monday during homeroom, every student received a name tag to display their name, encouraging them to step outside their comfort zone and meet someone new. Mrs. Borys, SAVE Club advisor, explained why this week matters so much, sharing that Start With Hello Week is a "national call to action week to promote belonging and unity in the school community."
Contributors: Karlene Wiehe, Alana Reuter, Brooke Knorr, and Kylee Henry, Journalism Staff Members
This afternoon, Thursday September 11th, Bus 12 which was carrying 32 students and the bus driver, was involved in an accident. We are relieved to report that there are no fatalities.
All students and the driver were immediately assessed on the scene and were transported or released as appropriate per the responding agencies. The district immediately notified all families of affected students. This evening, as always, the safety and well-being of our students and staff remain our top priority.
We understand that news like this is unsettling, and we are committed to keeping our families informed. Counselors and mental health staff will be available at school tomorrow, and in the coming days, for all students and staff who may need additional support.
We deeply appreciate the quick response of first responders, our staff, and the cooperation of our families and Southern Columbia school community during this time.
Further updates will be shared as they become available.
All students and the driver were immediately assessed on the scene and were transported or released as appropriate per the responding agencies. The district immediately notified all families of affected students. This evening, as always, the safety and well-being of our students and staff remain our top priority.
We understand that news like this is unsettling, and we are committed to keeping our families informed. Counselors and mental health staff will be available at school tomorrow, and in the coming days, for all students and staff who may need additional support.
We deeply appreciate the quick response of first responders, our staff, and the cooperation of our families and Southern Columbia school community during this time.
Further updates will be shared as they become available.
On Wednesday, students in Mrs. Zysset’s classes spent their time getting hands-on culinary experience while making chocolate chip, cinnamon muffins. Students used teamwork to measure, mix, and bake the ingredients, all while having fun and enjoying the learning process. After baking, students had the chance to enjoy their delicious creations. This activity not only highlighted the importance of collaboration but also introduced some to the joy of cooking as they proudly tasted the results of their efforts.
Contributor: Abigail Apichell, Journalism Staff Member
Since Homecoming falls during Fair Week, we’re extending our Homecoming Spirit Week this year! 🐾 Check out the attached flyer for all the daily themes and activities.
📅 Spirit Week Dates:
September 15th – September 23rd
Get ready for seven school days of Tiger pride, themed fun, and school spirit ! 🖤💛
📅 Spirit Week Dates:
September 15th – September 23rd
Get ready for seven school days of Tiger pride, themed fun, and school spirit ! 🖤💛
🎗️ Support the Gorham Family – Change War Fundraiser 🐾
Just like last year, our High School Student Council is organizing a Change War to support a local family in need. This year, we’re rallying behind the Gorham family, whose three-month-old twin daughters, Olivia and Rebekah, are currently undergoing treatment for leukemia. Their journey includes at least eight months of chemotherapy, surgeries, and ongoing testing.
The Gorham family has deep ties to our community — their older children attend Southern Columbia, and they are relatives of graduate and current staff member Mady Adams.
💛 How You Can Help:
Students are encouraged to bring in spare change throughout the rest of this month. The homeroom in each building that collects the most will win a celebration — think donuts or pizza! 🍩🍕 Homeroom teachers will have collection bags in their classrooms.
*A flyer is attached with more details. This fundraising effort will run through September 30.
Let’s come together to show the Gorham family how strong and supportive our Tiger community truly is! 🐯💛🖤
Backyard Brawl T-Shirts
If you ordered a "Backyard Brawl" T-shirt, pick up will be tonight, Tuesday, Sept. 9th from 7pm-8pm at the High School main entrance!
If you ordered a "Backyard Brawl" T-shirt, pick up will be tonight, Tuesday, Sept. 9th from 7pm-8pm at the High School main entrance!
Ms. Merook’s Second Grade students showed off their Tiger Pride yesterday with personalized paw prints in school colors! 🐾 Each one is uniquely decorated and full of personality, just like our students!
