Podpora

  • Dear Students, Families, and Staff of the Berlin Brothersvalley School District,

    As the warm days of summer gradually transition into the vibrant colors of autumn, it is with great excitement and enthusiasm that we welcome you back to the 2024-2025  school year! The Berlin Brothersvalley School District has always stood as a beacon of education and community, and we are thrilled to embark on another journey of learning, growth, and discovery together.

    To our returning students and families, we extend a heartfelt welcome back. Your commitment to education and the sense of belonging you bring to our halls enrich our school community in immeasurable ways. We look forward to building upon the relationships and achievements of the past, creating a tapestry of experiences that will shape your future in remarkable ways.

    For our new students and families, we extend a special welcome. We understand that stepping into a new environment can be both exciting and nerve-wracking. Rest assured that the Berlin Brothersvalley School District is more than just a place of learning – it is a supportive and nurturing community. We can't wait to get to know you and help you flourish.

    As we embark on this new academic year, we are committed to continually providing an exceptional educational experience that fosters creativity, critical thinking, and personal growth. Our dedicated educators have been hard at work preparing engaging lessons and meaningful experiences that will challenge and inspire you. We encourage you to approach each day with curiosity and a willingness to embrace new challenges, for it is through these challenges that we truly grow.

    This is also a time of celebration!  This past year, the High School was ranked #1 school in Somerset County and 112th out of 740 high schools in the state by US News and World Reports!  I believe that this can be attributed to a few things.  One, students and parents in our school community value education Two, our school staff in all three buildings are dedicated to their craft and that shows in the teaching that occurs within their classrooms.

    To our families, we appreciate this partnership and your unwavering support. Your involvement plays a pivotal role in the success of our students, and we invite you to stay engaged in your child's educational journey. Whether through volunteering, attending school events, or simply having conversations about their day, your presence matters.

    Let us remember that education is not just about books and exams; it's about fostering a sense of belonging, developing lifelong friendships, and preparing for the journey ahead. Together, we will create a safe and inclusive environment where everyone can thrive.

    In closing, let us embrace the possibilities that a new school year brings. Let us learn from one another, support each other, and celebrate each milestone achieved along the way.

     

    Thomas A. Podpora, Superintendent

     

     

    Dear Mountaineer Families and the Berlin Community,

    Please allow me this opportunity to introduce myself.  I am Tom Podpora, the new Superintendent of School here in Berlin.   I am deeply honored to have been selected to succeed Dr. David Reeder.  I look forward to working with the outstanding faculty, staff, students and alumni as together we honor the school’s history and advance the promise of its future.  I am excited to be able to join the school district and look forward to learning and growing as we progress through the years. 

    Personally, I have three children, two sons and one daughter, ranging from 23 to 26 years of age. Professionally, I received my Bachelors of Science degree in Special Education from Edinboro University, a Master’s degree in Educational Leadership from St. Bonaventure University, principal certification from Michigan State University and a Superintendent Letter of Eligibility from Gannon University.  

    Before becoming a superintendent, I was a special education teacher and principal for many years at  the elementary, middle and high school levels in addition to being an athletic director.  In my most recent position, I was a special education administrator with Intermediate Unit 1  located near California, Pennsylvania.

    I have a passion for education and what it offers to our students.  One of my goals is to be visible throughout the buildings, conversing and listening to staff and students.  As the newest member of our school community, I believe that my proactive and positive approach will create a positive school climate.

    In closing, I am certain that preparing our students to be lifelong learners, successful citizens, and positive role models are goals we have for every child. I look forward to meeting and working with you as I assist our students in embracing the many challenges and opportunities they will face during their academic career. 

     

    Yours in Education,

    Thomas A. Podpora
    Superintendent

    Berlin Brothersvalley School District