Message from Sun Valley Admin

Week of 2/23/26 - 2/27/26

Greetings Sun Valley Community,


We just passed the mid point mark of the 3rd quarter!

It is the final week of February! March is upon us! Spring is upon us (we will believe it when we see it!)


We have a full week of important teaching and learning this week!

Please ensure your student is asking for help if they need it. We have plenty of supports available to students!


Finally, as you may be aware already. The State of PA is n the brink of a full cell phone ban for schools. The bill has now passed the PA Senate with a near unanimous vote and now sits in the PA House for final passage. The bill currently has the Governor's support and looks like it will be passed into law. We will be sending out a survey to gather some community feedback on how we should most effectively implement the state's expectations. We look forward to your constructive feedback so we navigate into next school year with a plan in place.



John Paul Roskos

Principal

Here's a quick look at the week ahead: 2/23/26 - 2/27/26


  • Monday, February 23th Day 1
  • Tuesday, February 24th - Day 2
  • Wednesday, February 25th - Day 3
  • Thursday, February 26th - Day 4
  • Friday, February 27th - Day 5


ANNOUNCEMENTS

Congratulations to Senior Braeden DiGiovanni for being named to the All Delco Hi-Q Team. 

 

Braeden will be recognized at the Franklin Mint Federal Credit Union Foundation Celebration Banquet on April 16th at Drexelbrook.


Freshman / Sophomore Dance


The Freshmen/Sophomore Dance is Friday, 3/6! Tickets are on sale now until next Monday, 2/23. They will be $15 each and the schoolpay link is posted on the class page on Schoology. Please make sure you are using the correct link. Sophomores should be using the link on their page (https://www.schoolpay.com/pay/for/Tickets-for-Sophomore-Dance--Class-of-20/Sei9j4G) and freshmen should be using the link on their page (https://www.schoolpay.com/pay/for/Tickets-for-Freshman-Dance--Class-of-202/Sc7o2L4). If you are bringing an outside guest, the form should’ve already been handed in to your class advisors. In order for students to be eligible to attend the Freshman/ Sophomore dance, regardless of if they have purchased tickets or not they must meet the following criteria:

 

-        Students must be academically eligible as of the February 27th eligibility report (cannot be failing more than one class.)

-        Students may not have outstanding fines (lunch, scholarship, library, etc.) exceeding $20.

-        Students must have good school attendance and be in good standing discipline wise, as determined by school administration.

 

No student who purchases a ticket and is deemed ineligible will be permitted to attend the dance and no refunds will be issued for any reason. Tickets are not transferrable between students and are not refundable.

 

Thank you!

 

Ms. Elizabeth Boccella


 

Win Gift Cards + Build Money Confidence – Join the Financial Skills Challenge Parents Hour!

 

Dear Parents,

 

You’re invited to join our partners at Bank of America for a virtual Financial Skills Challenge Parents Hour – powered by Better Money Habits! This fun and practical session will provide you with a glimpse of what your child is learning through the Financial Skills Challenge game on the Stock-Track platform, the leading provider of financial literacy simulation. 

 

This session will give you tools to:

 

·        Strengthen your financial confidence

·        Learn ways to save, budget, and plan

·        Support your family’s money goals

 

Details:

·        February 25, 2026 - 6:00-7:00 p.m. EST - Register Today: Parents Hour Event Registration -- LINK   https://rsvp.bankofamerica.com/event/29075

 

 

Bonus: Attend the full session to be entered for a chance to win one of six $350 Amazon gift cards!

 

Include my email address kbigelow@pdsd.org on your registration. Don’t miss this opportunity to learn, connect, and maybe even win! 

 

Winning parent/guardian will be contacted within 10 calendar days after the event. Winners have 30 calendar days to claim the gift card. If not claimed, the winner forfeits the prize.



Ramadan at SVHS


Dear Students and Families,

As we approach the month of Ramadan (expected to begin around February 17, 2026), I want to take a moment to reaffirm Sun Valley’s commitment to providing an inclusive and supportive environment for all our students.

Ramadan is a holy month for our Muslim community, marked by fasting from dawn until sunset, prayer, and reflection. We recognize that this period requires significant physical and mental discipline, and we want to ensure that our students feel supported in balancing their religious observances with their academic goals.

To assist our fasting students, the school will be implementing the following accommodations throughout the month:

1. Dedicated Quiet Space

During lunch periods, the MIC will be available as a "food-free" quiet zone. Fasting students who prefer not to be in the cafeteria are welcome to use this space to rest, read, or catch up on schoolwork.

2. Prayer Accommodations

We have designated the MIC and Main Office conference rooms for students who wish to perform their daily prayers. Please speak with your teacher / counselor if you need a brief pass during the day for this purpose.

3. Physical Education & Activities

Students who are fasting are encouraged to participate in P.E. to the best of their ability. However, we understand that energy levels may fluctuate. 

4. Communication with Teachers

Our faculty is aware of the potential for increased fatigue, particularly in the late afternoon. If you have concerns about a specific exam or a major project deadline during the final ten days of Ramadan, please reach out to your teachers proactively. We are committed to flexibility where possible.

Strength lies in our diversity. We ask all students to remain mindful and respectful of their peers who are observing this month. To our fasting students: we wish you a meaningful and peaceful Ramadan. 

Sincerely,

John Paul Roskos

Principal


Dear Sun Valley Families,

 

We are pleased to share we having an Ireland and the UK educational tour happening in Summer 2028 and your student is invited to join us.

 

Here are some highlights of our experience:

• Explore Dublin's historic Georgian squares, Temple Bar district, and St. Patrick's Cathedral

• Visit EPIC, the interactive museum of Irish Emigration

• Explore Edinburgh Castle and Scotland's stunning capital city

• Experience London's iconic landmarks

 

When students travel, they expand their knowledge of the world around them, discover more about themselves, and grow more confident. These skills are critical for creating the global citizens of tomorrow, and I would love to have your student join us on one of these adventures.

 

Come hear all the details, including the itinerary, activities, academic opportunities, and the cost of the trip at our information night on Tuesday, March 3, 2026 at 6:00 PM. The meeting will take place via Zoom, so you MUST RSVP to receive the link! (No RSVP, no link).

 

Please click here to register for the meeting ASAP to save your seat: https://bit.ly/4jaffDN

 

There are limited spots on these trips, so we would love to have you attend this meeting to learn more about this exciting opportunity!

 

Thanks,

Ms. DiPietro


Senior Prom Information

 

Class of 2028 & Class of 2029

Frosh is coming! The Freshman/Sophomore dance will be held Friday, March 6th from 6:00-9:00 in the SV cafeteria. The theme this year is Decades! A Signup Genius asking for donations of water and snacks will be posted to the Freshman and Sophomore class pages. 

 

Tickets ($15) to the Freshman/ Sophomore Dance will be sold from February 17 - 23 on School Pay. Ticket sales will end at the conclusion of the school day on Feb. 23rd. In order for students to be eligible to attend the Freshman/ Sophomore dance, regardless of if they have purchased tickets or not they must meet the following criteria:


  • Students must be academically eligible as of the February 27th eligibility report (cannot be failing more than one class.)
  • Students may not have outstanding fines (lunch, scholarship, library, etc.) exceeding $20.
  • Students must have good school attendance and be in good standing discipline wise, as determined by school administration.

No student who purchases a ticket and is deemed ineligible will be permitted to attend the dance and no refunds will be issued for any reason. Tickets are not transferrable between students.

 

Guest forms for the Freshman/ Sophomore Dance will be available ­­­­in the main office beginning February 2nd. Guest forms are due back no later than February 17th, and should be handed into ­­­­an advisor. The form must include a picture of the guest’s photo ID. No guest form will be reviewed without a photo id. (Freshman Advisors: Mr. Henning & Mrs. Mal. Sophomore Advisors: Ms. Lansberry & Ms. Boccella)

PROPS for Les Mis

 

Award Winning PROPS team for Theatre will start meeting Tuesday 1/13 after school in Miss Willow’s room A4. Props is a great opportunity for those looking to fill time before a sport practice, or looking for a creative outlet that is a little different! Consider helping with our theatre departments Props for this years musical – LES MIS! 

NHS is proud to host Mini-Thon this year at Sun Valley. Mini-Thon is an event that raises money for childhood cancer in coordination with Four Diamonds and Penn State College of Medicine. Four Diamonds has been able to provide care and resources for families going through childhood cancer and support 90 pediatric research professionals at Penn State to create more effective treatments and to minimize long term side effects of a cancer diagnosis. The students will raise money for this cause and celebrate with a culminating event on April 10. ALL Sun Valley students are welcome to participate in this event! Please consider helping us reach our goal by creating a fundraising account using this link: Donor Drive .

Here is brief video to give insight into the Four Diamonds organization: Four Diamonds Mini-thon Movement


The NHS students are working hard to plan the event but a task like this needs everyone’s support. We will be hosting fundraising events throughout the school so keep an eye out for different events.


ITEM DROP OFF FOR STUDENTS DURING THE SCHOOL DAY


This school year there will be a table in the vestibule for parents/guardians to drop off items for students. Please make sure to label the item with your students name and let them know that you have dropped the item off. Student may pick up their items between classes, during their lunch period or at the end of the school day.



Everything you need to know about ordering your YEARBOOK!


Please click this link: 2026 Yearbook Info


Just a few reminders to everyone, regarding parking at and around Sun Valley. 

  • Student parking at Sun Valley and Northley is in the numbered spots by permit only. Anyone parking without a valid parking pass is subject to disciplinary action. Anyone who has a parking pass must display it in the mirror. 
  • The streets around Sun Valley are residential parking only, by permit. Parking in these areas are subject to ticketing by the Aston Police. 
  • No parking is permitted at the office building located at 2901 Duttons Mill Road (next to Buggy Field, which houses Ware Medical and District Court.) You may be towed from this lot at any time, without warning. 
  • The Aston Township Fire Department has their own internal permit process. Only those who have been approved in advance by the department may park there. Anyone without permission may be towed at any time. 

3 Ways to Report your Students Attendance

ATTENTION ALL STUDENTS!


Make sure you keep your Scholarchip ID swipe card in a safe place where you can find it easily. If you misplace your ID, you will need to purchase a new one. The cost of a temporary ID is $1.00 and the cost of a replacement ID is $5.00.

PTL dues are $10 per family this year. This can be paid with cash, a check payable to Sun Valley PTL or Venmo using the information above.

Students earn Sun Dollars by being Ready, Respectful, and Responsible. They can redeem those Sun Dollars for SV gear at the Sun Dollar store every Wednesday.


COUNSELING NEWS!!!

Students in grades 10-12 who are interested in a career in the military should sign up for the ASVAB Exam, a required test for military entrance. The test is free of cost and will be held on April 14th at 7:45 am in the MIC. Students need to bring their laptops fully charged as it is administered on their Chromebooks. The sign up for this exam is in SchooLinks under Engage > Events > ASVAB Testing > Register for this Event.


Seniors:



As you receive acceptance and scholarship letters from colleges, don’t forget to bring them to the counseling office so we can copy them. We want to make sure you are recognized for your achievements.


Keep an eye on Schoology’s ‘College and Career Planning’ Course for scholarship opportunities. New scholarships are added as they become available.

The 2026-27 Delaware County Technical School Application is now open. Students can find the application link in the document below and should carefully read over the information about the application process before applying. Applications will be accepted through February 28, 2026.

 

Click here for the Delaware County Technical School Application

Seniors:


Senior Scholarship Opportunities:


Pennsylvania State Society Daughters of the American Revolution (PSSDAR):

Multiple scholarship opportunities available through the Pennsylvania State Society Daughters of the American Revolution (PSSDAR). See attached information and see for which ones you may qualify and apply today

https://pssdar.org/education.php

Wildlife Leadership Academy – Interested in learning more about wildlife, fisheries and conservation?

5 day summer programs available at field schools. The trainings begin with a rigorous period of residential programming that focus on a special topic in conservation that teaches about ecology, recreation, as well as leadership skills development and continues with community outreach through education, service, media engagement, creative arts, and outdoor mentorship. Areas of focus include: Bucktails (white-tailed deer), Bass, Brookies (brook trout), Gobblers (turkey) and Ursids (black bears) along with their habitats. For Youth ages 14-17, programs run June and July 2026 in Madisonburg, PA

https://wildlifeleadershipacademy.org/


Upcoming College Visits


Juniors and Seniors – Please sign-up in SchooLinks. You must pre-register in order to attend scheduled college visits.


Registration closes 8hrs prior to each visit.




US Army


Wednesday, February 25th


During all lunches


Commonwealth University


Monday, March 9th


at 9:30am




Williamson College of the Trades


Wednesday, March 11th


at 9:30am

STAFF MEMBER OF THE WEEK

Mr. Kissinger


Mr. Nielson's pick for staff member of the week is: Mr. Kissinger


He writes, I am nominating Mr. Kenneth Kissinger from the Special Education department. Since Mr. Kissinger’s first day at Sun Valley he has built strong relationships with students and has been a great addition to the co-teaching model. While running back and forth between classes, Mr. Kissinger can be found engaging in conversations with students or staying after class assisting students with their needs. Mr. Kissinger is an outstanding educator. Also, did you know Mr. Kissinger likes to play golf and is very good at it?



STUDENTS OF THE WEEK


Mya Delacy


Selected by: Ms. Freeman


Mya is also a member of the MIC Advisory Board and has done a great job! Despite leaving every afternoon for dual enrollment college courses, she is still an active participant in the school community, which is great to see.



Mohannad Hafez


Selected by: Mrs. Bednar


Mohannad is an outgoing and kind student who brings positivity into my classroom everyday. He is Respectful to both classmates and teachers and has a talent of making everyone smile. Mohannad's great personality and warmth make others feel welcome. His postitive attitude and kindness add so much to our class! 


Madisyn DiMeglio


Selected by: Ms. Freeman


As an inaugural member of the MIC Advisory Board, Madisyn has been great in helping with activities in the MIC. She also challenges herself academically and is a great student!



Javier Cabezas


Selected by: Mr. Liles


I chose Javier for student of the week because he enters class with a positive attitude and approaches each day ready to learn. He is always kind and respectful to both his teachers and his peers, creating a welcoming and supportive classroom environment for everyone.


Ashna Mathew


Selected by: Mrs. Bednar


Ashna is ready, respectful and responsible in everything she does. She works hard each day and shows incredible dedication, especially in her commitment to learning English. Ashna alwasys puts forth her best effort, stays focused and takes pride in her work. She is thoughful and kind and I enjoy that she visits me every morning before classes begin. Her positive attitude, determination and strong work ethic make her an outstanding Student of the Week. 


Alexa Bernstein


Selected by: Mr. Liles


I chose Alexa because she consistently demonstrates a strong commitment to her learning and always puts forth her best effort in all aspects of class. Her work continuously shows thoughtful analysis that reflects a willingness to think critically and grow as a student.

CLUBS, COMMITTEES & CLASS MEETINGS


ART CLUB/NATIONAL ART HONOR SOCIETY


Art Club meetings will be held every Wednesday (unless otherwise told) until Arts Alive in May!


Anyone is welcome to join Art Club.


Please see Miss Willow in A4 with any questions!

Astronomy Club


Astronomy Club will meet every Thursday in the Planetarium from 2:15-2:55.


If you have any questions, please see Mr. Breiling & Ms. Di Pietro 



Bible Buddies - The Great Revival


Bible Buddies meet every Wednesday in D-94.   



BLACK STUDENT UNION


The BSU promotes culturally relevant conversations, advocates for students who feel overlooked or misrepresented, and encourages student empowerment. We embrace our cultural heritage, unity, and the appreciation of diversity.


If you have any questions, please see Mr. Henning.

The Black Student Union meets on Mondays after school in C86.


CHESS CLUB


The Chess Club meets on Wednesdays after school in room B-245. Beginners and advanced players are welcome. When you lose, you learn. When you win, you teach.

Text: @rooknroll to: 81-010


Top 10 Benefits of Playing Chess

Cultural Alliance Club


Meets every Tuesday after school in C73.


D & D CLUB


The D&D Club meets Mondays and Thursdays after school in C73.

E-GAMING CLUB


"Video Game Club or E-Gaming Club meets three times a week, Monday, Wednesday, Fridays, after school from 2:15PM to 3:15PM. You do not need to sign up, and attendance is not mandatory, show up when you please! 

 

We usually play games that are local Co-Op, and the Nintendo Switch is what we use most due to its portability. 

 

BRING YOUR OWN GAMES as they will not be provided, we are a collaborative group who share and work together. If you would like something added just ask!



We have three different AV set-ups so up to three groups of students may play at any given time!"

FCCLA


We will be having a fundraiser for Chick Fil A on Wednesday, February 25 from 4-9. 


FCCLA is collecting pet supplies for the local shelters. There is a box in the lobby for supplies or drop them off to A-2.


Girls Spark


Girls Spark is a club for girls by girls that focuses on issues surrounding leadership, self-advocacy, service, personal wellness and much more. Interested girls can see Madeliene Kleppinger or Alexa Bernstein for more information.


All interested girls are welcomed and encouraged to attend! 

GSA


GSA is open to all LGBTQIA+ students and Allies! We are always looking for student leaders who want to make a difference at Sun Valley.


See Miss Willow with questions and to join the remind. Meeting times and dates will vary month to month!



Hi-Q



The Hi-Q team meets in room B-245. Please see Mr. Baron with any questions.


MATH HONOR SOCIETY


Peer tutoring continues after school - please click HERE for weekly updates!

 

Thank you!



If you have any questions, please reach out to Mrs. Caputo

NATIONAL ENGLISH HONOR SOCIETY


National English Honors Society (NEHS) will be required to help at this years' Sun Valley Poetry Day in April. There will be a MANDATORY meeting for all NEHS members on Monday, March 16th at 2:15 in the MIC. Please plan on attending. 

 

Please direct any questions to Ms. Mancarella or Ms. Starinieri. 

NATIONAL HONOR SOCIETY


Due to a lack of student interest NHS will not be hosting a Winter Formal this year.


NHS Spirit wear is now on sale! Members are expected to wear their shirts during volunteer events so please try to purchase if you currently do not have a polo or sweatshirt. Place your order using this link: NHS Spirit Wear


NHS is proud to host Mini-Thon this year at Sun Valley. Mini-Thon is an event that raises money for childhood cancer in coordination with Four Diamonds and Penn State College of Medicine. Four Diamonds has been able to provide care and resources for families going through childhood cancer and support 90 pediatric research professionals at Penn State to create more effective treatments and to minimize long term side effects of a cancer diagnosis. The students will raise money for this cause and celebrate with a culminating event on April 10. ALL Sun Valley students are welcome to participate in this event! Please consider helping us reach our goal by creating a fundraising account using this link: Donor Drive.


Here is brief video to give insight into the Four Diamonds organization: Four Diamonds Mini-thon Movement


Contact Jennifer Maiale @ jmaiale@pdsd.org with any questions.

NEWSPAPER CLUB


Are you interested in writing, editing, art or photography? If so, join the Newspaper Club! We will discuss plans and a publishing schedule for the 2025-2026 school year. 


Meetings are on Mondays 2:20pm - 3:15pm in B44 and all are welcome to attend.


We are always looking for new members interested in writing, editing, photography, or videography.

RHO KAPPA


The Rho Kappa meeting dates to be announced.


Please contact Mr. Henning or Mrs. Malaczewski with any questions. 

SCIENCE NATIONAL HONORS SOCIETY


Please see Ms. Phelps with any questions.


Science tutoring is available after school in the MIC Monday - Thursday from 2:15 - 2:55, unless there is a scheduled meeting. If you require tutoring during lunch or a study hall, please let your science teacher know and we will find a tutor for you. 

SCIENCE OLYMPIAD TEAM


The Science Olympiad Team will meet on Tuesdays after school in B-241


Please see Mr. Passen with any questions.


No experience required – as long as you like something about science, you'll be a great addition to the team!"




SPEECH & DEBATE TEAM


If you’re interested in learning more about our speech and debate team, please attend the meeting or see Ms. Wessel or Ms. Phelps. 


Please see Ms. Wessel in B42 with any questions. 



STUDENT SENATE


Student will be hosting a clothing drive from February 16-March 16. Drop off locations will be in the main lobby and A-2.


Are you interested in student leadership? This is the club for you.


SUN VALLEY STAGE CREW


Please see Mr. Pry or Mr. Bittner if you are interested in doing Stage Crew.

YEARBOOK CLUB


Starting Monday, November 10th Yearbook will meet every Monday after school in B259.



Also note - ANY STUDENT can send in photos from events, classes, lunches, trips etc. throughout the year to be considered for the yearbook. Want to be in the yearbook? Send in photos!

VALIANT VANGUARDS



The Valiant Vanguards meetings are at 2:20pm in room B42.


IMPORTANT DATES/UPCOMING EVENTS!

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