Superintendent

Welcome back to another exciting school year in the Penn Hills School District! I hope your summer was filled with rest, joy, and time with loved ones. It has been a fast-paced summer for our district, filled with renovations, new programs, and innovative learning opportunities for our students. We are eager to share what’s new and what’s ahead. 

New Initiatives in Our Schools:

• Penn Hills Elementary School (PHES): This year, we are introducing Math Intervention Periods to give every student targeted support and enrichment. We are also launching our iPad Initiative, ensuring students have access to powerful learning tools at their fingertips.  
• Linton Middle School: Students will benefit from central air conditioning, new flooring, and access to both swimming pools. We are also excited to open a new Esports Area, offering opportunities for teamwork, strategy, and digital literacy. 
• Penn Hills High School: This year marks the debut of the 9th Grade Academy, designed to support a smooth transition to high school, and the PHorge Academy, an innovative pathway program. We are also implementing Khanmigo, an AI-powered learning tool to personalize and accelerate student learning. 

Our District Goals for 2025–2026 

1. Ignite Academic Success through innovative teaching practices and a rigorous, standards-aligned curriculum that challenges every student to reach their full potential. 
2. Foster Continuous Learning with meaningful professional development that equips our staff to elevate instruction, promote innovation, and build a culture of lifelong excellence. 
3. Create a Student-Centered Environment where every learner feels connected, respected, and empowered to lead. 
4. Cultivate a Safe and Inclusive Climate where students, staff, and families feel secure, valued, and supported. 

This year, we will take a deeper dive into data than ever before, monitoring both individual student progress and grade-level achievement to ensure every learner is on track. For parents of our younger students, we cannot stress enough the importance of reading with your child at least 20 minutes each night; research consistently shows this habit has a lasting impact on academic success. 

Positive Trends & Continued Focus 

• Attendance has improved in all three buildings. 
• Career Readiness Awareness has increased at every level. 
• Algebra and Literature Keystone Exam Scores have shown measurable growth, reflecting the hard work of our students and staff. 
• Customer Service will remain a district priority as we work to strengthen our partnerships with families. 

Reminders for Families 

• Please utilize the Ride K-12 application to access your student’s bus information quickly and accurately.  Information can be found on the district website.   
• Join us for Coffee and Conversation sessions throughout the year—an open forum to connect with district leadership and discuss topics important to our community. 
• If you have questions or topics you would like addressed, please submit them via the district website so we can respond promptly and effectively. 

Finally, we appreciate your patience as we transition to our new student management system, Qmlativ. These improvements, along with the summer renovations, position us for an incredible year ahead. 

Please be sure to attend the upcoming Welcome Back Sessions offered at each school—these events are a great way to connect, get information, and start the year strong. 

As we begin this new chapter together, I am reminded of the words of Helen Keller: “Alone we can do so little; together we can do so much.” Working hand-in-hand, we will continue to create the best possible opportunities for our students. 

Here’s to a safe, successful, and inspiring school year! 

Together in education,

Dr. John Mozzocio 
Superintendent of Schools 
Penn Hills School District