Join us for Into the Woods! Our talented students have been working tirelessly to bring this beloved story to life with stunning vocals, dynamic performances, and a touch of fairy tale magic.
From familiar characters to powerful lessons about choices and consequences, this production promises an unforgettable night of theatre.
March 5 & 6 | 7pm
March 7 | 2pm & 7pm
Tickets are available at the door or may be purchased in advance here: https://events.hometownticketing.com/boxoffice/octorara/entity/schools/3
Senior Families – Yearbook Deadlines
The downhill side of the school year is here, and we want to make sure you don’t miss these important senior yearbook dates:
Tribute Ads (Optional)
Celebrate your graduating senior with a personalized message in the yearbook!
Deadline: February 27, 2026 (https://studentservicesco.com/octorara/yearbook-tribute-ads/)
Photo Submissions
Email photos to 📧 yearbookhs@octorara.org
Please include:
• A baby photo
• A photo with any high school siblings
• “Blast from the past” school-age photos
🗓 Deadline: Friday, March 6, 2026
Pre-Order the 2026 Yearbook
Reserve your copy today at https://studentservicesco.com/
Limited extras will be available, so pre-ordering is strongly encouraged.
🗓 Online sales open through at least April 4, 2026
Thank you for supporting the yearbook and helping us celebrate the Class of 2026!
Octorara Area School District Hosts Legislative Luncheon to Share Vision and Student Experience
Octorara Area School District recently welcomed state legislators and staff to campus for a Legislative Luncheon, during which district leadership shared “The Next Chapter of OASD,” outlining the vision, priorities, and forward momentum shaping the district’s future.
The District was honored to host State Senator Carolyn Comitta, Representative Dan Williams, Representative Bryan Cutler, and Representative John Lawrence, along with members of their teams, including Michael Hartman, Chief of Staff to Senator Comitta; Nikki Whitlock, Chief of Staff to Senator Katie Muth; and Bill Scholl, Chief of Staff to Representative Williams.
District leadership spoke candidly about the district’s current academic performance and the need for continued improvement. Leaders outlined the focused work underway to strengthen instructional practices, increase student achievement, and build a clear path forward through the development of the district’s Strategic Roadmap, which will guide priorities and goals in the years ahead.
A highlight of the luncheon was a student conversation featuring four Octorara students who shared reflections on their educational experiences and future aspirations. Their perspectives offered legislators meaningful insight into the impact of public education within the district. Guests enjoyed a lunch prepared from scratch by students in the Octorara Area Career and Technical Education Culinary Arts program, showcasing the talent, professionalism, and real-world skills being developed across the district.
“Our goal was to create space for thoughtful dialogue and to ensure our legislators hear directly from the students and educators they serve,” said Superintendent Dutkiewicz. “We are proud of the progress taking place across our district and remain committed to continued growth, collaboration, and opportunity for every student.”
“Having started my career as a teacher in the Octorara Area School District, it is a pleasure to see the district grow to meet the needs of a diverse community and prepare generations of young people for success in school, work, and life. Octorara is pursuing a strategic vision for the future that includes community partnerships, expanded career programs, enhanced professional development, and more. I look forward to seeing those plans progress and appreciate feeling welcomed home every time I visit or interact with Octorara schools, students, teachers, and families,” said State Senator Carolyn Comitta.
Octorara Area School District values strong partnerships with state leaders and appreciates the opportunity to engage in meaningful conversation about the future of public education.
Open Board Director Position | Octorara Area School Board of Directors
Due to Board Director Jere Zimmerman’s resignation from the Board of Directors, a seat on the Board is open for a term to run from March 9, 2026 through the next General Municipal Election in 2027.
Qualifications:
Must be at least eighteen (18) years of age;
Must have been a resident of the District for at least one (1) year prior to the date of election or appointment;
May not also hold an incompatible office such as district attorney, borough or township treasurer, member of council in any municipality, township commissioner, township supervisor, tax collector, assessor, assistant assessor, comptroller, auditor or constable;
May not be a District employee or in certain cases, an employee of the Chester County Intermediate Unit; and
Must reside in Region 2
Region 2 | Sadsbury Township (Lancaster County), West Fallowfield Township
To Apply
Send Letter of Interest and Resume to:
Attention: Jill Hardy, Board Secretary
Octorara Area School District
228 Highland Road, Suite 1
Atglen, PA 19310
Or email to: jhardy@octorara.org
Deadline for Letter of Interest and Resume: March 2, 2026
A Full-Circle Moment: Alex Lantz '19 Returns to Serve the Educators Who Shaped Him
During a recent staff in-service day, educators were welcomed with delicious coffee and a familiar face. Alex Lantz, Class of 2019 and owner of Basileia Coffee, returned to Octorara to serve coffee to the educators who helped shape his path.
“It means a lot. I love giving back to those who poured so much into me, and I believe that’s something we are all called to do.”
For Alex, the visit was more than a business opportunity. It was a full-circle moment and a reflection of the relationships that defined his time as a student.
Looking back, he points to both the academic experiences and the personal investment of his teachers. “I’ll always remember debating in Mr. Udell’s government class, learning to think critically in Ms. Watson’s English class, spending time with my basketball teammates, and even winning Homecoming King. But most of all, I’ll remember how the staff genuinely cared about us as humans, not just students.”
Teachers including Mr. Udell, Ms. Watson, Ms. Eshlemen, Mr. Pepe, Mr. Coyle, and Mr. Voss left a lasting impact. “They saw everyone, not just the high achievers or the loudest voices. They had a passion for their students.”
Alex credits Octorara with providing meaningful opportunities and the foundation he now draws on as a business owner. “The difference was whether or not I applied myself. I learned skills in math, accounting, reading, and English that I still use every day running my business. Athletics, clubs, and part-time work helped build skills you can’t always quantify, like public speaking, networking, and critical thinking.”
A four-year member of the basketball team, Alex balanced academics and athletics while working 20 to 22 hours per week during the school year. That experience shaped his discipline and work ethic. “Being part of a team and holding a steady job taught me that nothing worthwhile comes easy. Everything takes work and sacrifice.”
Today, returning to Octorara with Basileia Coffee represents both gratitude and growth. “It’s not just about coffee. It’s about giving back and showing current students what’s possible.”
Alex’s journey reflects the lasting influence of dedicated educators and the opportunities available to students who fully engage in their experience. His story is a reminder that strong relationships, hard work, and a supportive school community can shape paths long after graduation.
Octorara Area School District is offering QBS Safety-Care: Verbal De-Escalation, a free training for parents to learn evidence-based strategies for managing challenging behaviors at home.
February 28 | 9 AM–1 PM
HUB at Octorara Middle School
Register here: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfxMaWAUzOaj9ITKLTEuXT67GAbIziHqLkYU1jvExjXdmHZhw/viewform
🏀 1,000 POINTS!
Congratulations to Vincent Thaler on scoring his 1,000th career point! An amazing accomplishment and a moment to remember for our Boys Basketball program. Way to make history, Vincent! 🔥👏
Attention Senior Families:
The downhill side of the school year is upon us. Here is a reminder for you regarding upcoming deadlines related to the yearbook's senior section:
Personalized messages, called Tribute Ads, can be purchased for congratulating your graduating senior. They are optional. Click HERE for more information about how you can get a personalized message into the yearbook for your senior. Deadline for submitting a tribute ad is February 27, 2026.
Email any photos you would like the yearbook team to consider using in the yearbook to yearbookhs@octorara.org. Please send a baby picture of your senior, a picture of your senior with any HS siblings, and/or photos of your senior throughout their school-age years. Deadline for baby, sibling and blast from the past photos is Friday, March 6, 2026.
To order a copy of this one-of-a-kind publication, please make sure to pre-order a copy of the 2026 yearbook by clicking here. Not many extra copies will be available, so you aren't guaranteed to be able to get a copy if you don't preorder. On-line sales of the yearbook will stay open through at least April 4, 2026.
Thank you for your support,
The Yearbook Team
Weather Update for Tuesday, 1/27
Due to snow and ice, and roadway challenges, OASD will operate a Flexible Instruction Day on Tuesday, January 27. The FID counts as a school day and gives students time to complete assignments, connect with teachers, and enjoy the snow.
Additional information, including frequently asked questions, and the FID Attendance Sheet, can be found here.
Please note that we will not be utilizing the automated phone call feature for this notification. We are actively reviewing communication procedures and will be exploring improvements moving forward. The campus will remain closed.
Due to inclement weather, Octorara Area School District will be closed on Monday, January 26, and will implement a Flexible Instruction Day (FID). Students will complete assignments at home as outlined by their teachers. There will be no in-person classes.
Students with internet access should record attendance using the OASD FID Attendance Sheet, which is available in the FID section of the district website. Students without internet access should submit a parent note confirming attendance on the Flexible Instruction Day.
Additional information, including frequently asked questions, can be found here.
Please note, the campus will be closed to allow for snow removal.
Looking ahead: Based on continued weather conditions, roadway access, and our ability to prepare buses and campus facilities for safe travel, Tuesday, January 27, may also be impacted by this storm. Any information regarding Tuesday’s school day will be communicated as early as possible to support staff and student planning.
Additionally, the Education Committee Meeting and K–5 Principal Search Focus Group, originally scheduled for Monday, will be rescheduled to Wednesday, January 28:
Education Committee Meeting: 6:00 p.m., at the HUB at the Octorara Middle School
K–5 Principal Search Focus Group: 7:00 p.m., at the HUB at the Octorara Middle School
Thank you for your continued support and cooperation.
Applications Now Open for Octorara Area Career & Technical Education Programs
Applications are now open for the Octorara Area Career and Technical Education Programs (OACTEP) for the 2026–27 school year. OACTEP offers 12 career-focused programs designed to prepare students for both college and the workforce, with an emphasis on career readiness and hands-on learning beginning in 10th grade.
Explore 12 Career Pathways
Students may apply to one of the following OACTEP programs:
Animal and Plant Science Technology
Business Marketing and Entrepreneurship
The Career Lab: School to Work
Carpentry and Cabinetmaking
Child Care Education
Computer Technology
Cooperative Education
Culinary and Baking/Pastry Arts/Institutional Food Worker
Engineering and Drafting Technology
Design and Illustration
Mechanical Systems Technology
Homeland Security & Protective Services Academy (OHSPSA)
Each program provides students with real-world skills, industry exposure, and opportunities to explore future career pathways while still in high school.
Application Timeline
The Round 1 application deadline is January 31. Students who apply by this date will receive priority consideration, with decisions announced by February 28, 2026. Any remaining seats after Round 1 will be offered to students who apply after the deadline.
Career Lab: School to Work Experience
The Career Lab: School to Work Experience is designed for rising juniors and seniors who are interested in a pathway-related work experience prior to graduation. Through this program, students can earn a paycheck and high school credit while gaining valuable insight into their career goals. This option is available as a selection within the OACTEP application.
Job Shadowing Opportunities
Students who are unsure which program is the best fit are encouraged to participate in monthly job shadowing experiences, which are available for each program. Interested students should stop by the CTE Office (Room B103) at the high school for more information and assistance.
How to Apply
The application for all OACTEP programs, except the Homeland Security and Protective Services Academy, can be found here.
The Octorara Homeland Security and Protective Services Academy (OHSPSA) is held at the Chester County Public Safety Training Campus in South Coatesville and has a separate application process. The application can be found here.
Students interested in a program at TCHS at Pennock’s Bridge should speak with their school counselor, as the application timeline is the same.
For more information, please contact Mark Peticca, Director of Career and Technical Education, at mpeticca@octorara.org or 610-593-8238, ext. 30549.
We look forward to supporting students as they explore the many opportunities available through OACTEP and prepare for the next chapter of their high school experience.
Building My Future at the OPLC: A Kindergarten Readiness Event for Families
Families of children who are eligible to attend Kindergarten in the Octorara Area School District this fall are invited to attend "Building My Future at the OPLC" on January 15 from 6:30–7:30 PM.
This interactive event is designed to give children the opportunity to explore and create using a variety of STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math) materials. Children will participate in hands-on “make and take” activities while enjoying a fun and welcoming environment.
At the same time, caregivers will receive important information about Kindergarten readiness and the registration process, helping families feel informed and prepared as they look ahead to the next school year. Light snacks will be provided.
Families are encouraged to register in advance if they plan to attend.
Where: Octorara Primary Learning Center | 87 Highland Rd, Atglen
When: January 15, 6:30-7:30 PM
Register: Please click here.
Student Design Selected for District Holiday Card
This year’s district holiday card features a unique, student-designed illustration created by Mary Flowers, an 11th-grade student. Mary’s design thoughtfully blends school pride with seasonal charm by transforming familiar school supplies into festive holiday cookies. The result is a creative and original card that feels personal and one-of-a-kind.
Mary created the design as part of her coursework with art teacher Mrs. Rachel Minnich, who encouraged students to explore creative expression through meaningful themes. Her submission stood out for its originality, attention to detail, and the way it captured both the spirit of the school community and the holiday season.
The final design was reviewed by members of the Central Office, who selected Mary’s artwork from student submissions based on creativity and overall design. Her artwork was unanimously chosen to represent the district in this year’s holiday greeting.
We are proud to showcase Mary’s talent and grateful to Mrs. Minnich for fostering creativity in the classroom.
Octorara Area School District is closed today, December 23, due to untreated road conditions in our area and reports of unsafe travel from our transportation team. We appreciate your understanding and wish everyone safe travels and happy holidays.
For generations, Octorara Area School District has been rooted in community, tradition, and a shared commitment to our students.
As we look ahead, we created a short video that captures the pride, optimism, and anticipation we feel as we prepare to begin our next chapter. Grounded in strong values and shaped by the people who make Octorara special, the video reflects our continued focus on creating opportunities where every student can thrive.
Thank you to our students, families, staff, alumni, and community for being part of our story, past, present, and future.
Special thanks to Jill Hardy, Brian Norris, Elena Tachau, Allyson Hallman, and Shawn Dutkiewicz for assisting in the narration.
Please view the video here.
Early Dismissal: 12/23
No School: 12/24-1/4
Return: 1/5
OASD Operating on a 2-Hour Delay Tomorrow
Dear Octorara Area School District Families,
Due to the recent snowstorm and the anticipated freezing of roads overnight, we will operate on a 2-hour delay tomorrow, Monday, December 15. This delay will allow additional time for road conditions to improve and for crews to treat and clear roadways.
OMS and OHS will begin at 9:45 AM and the PLC and OIS will begin at 10:45 AM.
We encourage families to use extra caution while traveling. Thank you for your understanding and cooperation as we work to ensure a safe start to the day.
