Trojan Pride - Spring-Summer 2025 Community Update
In July 2025, the Spring-Summer Issue of Trojan Pride was mailed to all York Suburban residents and businesses. This page contains a slide show version of the newsletter and a digital version of the text only. If you are interested, you can use the Google Translate feature on our website to translate this information into other languages.
Cover
York Suburban Trojan Pride
Spring-Summer 2025
Inspiring a BOLD Future
Topics In This Issue
- Message from the Superintendent
- Portrait of a Graduate Spotlight
- Celebrating the Class of 2025
- EMT Course Feature
- Update on Construction and Renovation Projects
- 2025-2026 Budget Update
- Points of Pride
Page 2
Welcome to the Spring-Summer edition of Trojan Pride.
As we prepare to start another school year, we wanted to take a moment to reflect on the Class of 2025’s achievements, share updates on upcoming construction projects, and celebrate the remarkable work happening across the York Suburban School District.
Whether you are a parent, student, graduate, community member, or staff member, we hope you find the articles informative and inspiring.
Inspiring a BOLD Future
Our goal is for every student to have both a plan and a pathway when they leave us, a journey that begins the moment they step into our classrooms in kindergarten. From learning to read and discovering their interests in elementary school to exploring career pathways and building critical skills in middle and high school, each step is designed to prepare our students for success beyond graduation. For some students, that means acceptance to college or trade school. For others, it’s preparing for enlistment or entering the workforce ready to contribute from day one.
Throughout this issue, we celebrate the Class of 2025 and spotlight the programs, experiences, and strong academic foundation that shape York Suburban graduates into well-rounded individuals ready to thrive and make meaningful contributions to their communities.
At York Suburban, we are committed to:
- Providing rigorous and relevant academics with flexible scheduling to create opportunities for electives and extracurricular activities, paving multiple pathways for students to excel through enrollment, employment, or enlistment.
- Supporting high-quality staff who build meaningful connections and offer students the guidance, instruction, and opportunities they need to achieve their ambitions at every grade level.
As we congratulate our graduates and send them off to the next chapter of their lives, we also look forward to welcoming the Class of 2038 and returning students next month for another year of growth, discovery, and achievement. I’m excited to see what we
can accomplish together.
Dr. Scott Krauser, Superintendent
Page 3
Portrait of a Graduate
Career, College, and Workforce Ready
As part of our commitment to celebrating student success, high school faculty were invited to nominate members of the Class of 2025 who truly exemplify our Portrait of a Graduate competencies.
The following students were nominated by multiple staff members and stand out for their dedication to developing the skills, attributes, and mindset that will help them thrive after graduation.
Jorlanys Romero-Baez
Enlisted in the Army National Guard
As a thinker, planner, and wise decision-maker, Jorlanys contributes to our school community and encourages those around her. She has a clear vision for the future and a heart set on making a difference. - Carol Brillhart-Freimuth, ESL/LIEP Teacher
Antonio Cruz
Pursuing a Welding Career
Antonio exemplifies quiet dedication and thoughtfulness, consistently asking insightful questions and showing a strong work ethic. He’s the kind of person who will adjust to life after high school with ease and thrive in whatever path he chooses, earning the respect of those around him. - John Gaeta, Social Science Teacher
Spencer Burns
Enrolled at Temple University
Spencer is a fantastic student and a wonderful problem solver who works to truly understand the problem at hand by being analytical of the facts, asking thoughtful questions, and applying the knowledge. I admire Spencer’s ability to encourage others, build them up, and look after them. - Korbin Shearer, Career, College, and Workforce Coordinator
Learn More
For additional information, including student spotlights from the 2024-2025 school year, please visit the Portrait of a Graduate page on the District website. www.yssd.org
Pages 4 and 5
Class of 2025 at a GLANCE
Total Graduates - 223
28% Graduated with a GPA of 3.2 or greater
Best Wishes to the Class of 2025
On Thursday, May 22, York Suburban High School celebrated the Class of 2025 as they received their diplomas during the school’s sixty-sixth commencement ceremony. This exceptional class has consistently demonstrated the skills, resilience, and determination that will guide them as they set out to make their mark on the world. We are incredibly proud of all they have accomplished during their time at York Suburban and look forward to all they will achieve in the next chapter of their lives.
Harvard University Bound
Sophia Scalet, co-valedictorian, faced an exciting decision this spring after receiving acceptances from six Ivy League universities. With acceptance rates ranging from just
3.4% to 7%, this remarkable achievement speaks to her exceptional talent and dedication. Sophia now joins a distinguished group of York Suburban alumni who have earned admission to prestigious institutions. To read more about Sophia, visit the District’s Portrait of a Graduate page on our website where Sophia was highlighted for exemplifying our Compassionate Citizen competency.
Class of 2025 Co-Valedictorians - Dylan Dang and Sophia Scalet
Our Trojans are Going Places!
Our graduates will be attending 57 different colleges and universities across the country, with the majority pursuing a career in healthcare or human services and choosing to stay in Pennsylvania. York College emerged as the top choice, allowing many students to continue their education close to home. The percentages below highlight the post-graduation plans reported by the Class of 2025 in their exit survey.
54% - Four-Year College or University
9% - Trade or Business School
12% - Entering the Workforce
9% - Two-Year College or Institution
5% - Military Enlistment
11% - Gap Year Before Further Schooling
Commencement photos featured on these pages and the cover were taken by Carter Weems, Class of 2026.
Pages 6 and 7
Learning by DOING
The High School EMT course is offered to York Suburban students thanks to the District’s partnership with WellSpan and financial support from The Arthur J. & Lee R. Glatfelter Foundation, York Suburban Education Foundation (YSEF), and York County Alliance for Learning (YCAL).
York Suburban High School’s Emergency Medical Technician (EMT): Pathways to First Responder and Health Care Certifications Course offers students a unique, hands-on introduction to careers in emergency response. Designed for individuals with an interest in protecting and serving their communities, this program provides participants with real-world exposure to emergency medical services and other public safety fields. One feature of the course is the opportunity to earn certifications, including the Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) credential and other relevant training that can jump-start a career in emergency services. Students graduate with not only a better understanding of public safety careers but also certifications that can lead directly to employment or further education in the field. The course is an outstanding example of York Suburban’s commitment to preparing graduates for a BOLD future whether they choose to serve in their hometown or beyond.
Prom Promise Demonstration
In May, juniors and seniors participated in Prom Promise, a powerful demonstration aimed at reducing impaired driving among teens. The event featured a realistic mock car crash, with EMT students acting out the aftermath of impaired driving. The demonstration was organized by the EMT students and teachers and made possible thanks to York Area United Fire & Rescue (YAUFR), First Capitol EMS, WellSpan EMS, the York County Corner’s Office, Spring Garden Township Police Department, and Louie’s Auto Service and Towing.
WellSpan Wellflight Visit
EMT students got an up-close look at WellSpan’s Wellflight medical helicopter when it landed on the high school baseball field. Members of the Wellflight crew answered student questions and provided hands-on learning.
Through immersive field experiences, EMT students gained insight into medical assessments, trauma care, rescue operations, and public safety protocols. Guest speakers, simulations, and site visits deepened our students’ understanding of the demands and rewards of these essential professions.
Pages 8 and 9
The Excitement is BUILDING
High School Renovations and New Pool
Proposed Timeline: April 2026 - Summer 2028
Originally built in 1958, York Suburban High School has long been a cornerstone of our community. However, as the building has aged, maintaining the facility and enhancing the learning experience within it has become increasingly difficult. As we look to the future, it is evident our schools must continue to evolve, not only in infrastructure but also in curriculum and instruction.
oday’s students need modern, hands-on learning experiences that cultivate essential 21st-century skills such as critical thinking, communication, problem-solving, and collaboration. These are not supplemental skills, they are vital tools that will prepare our graduates to confidently face the demands of adult life. Investing in updated educational spaces and launching new programs will provide several key benefits:
- Preparing graduates with real-world skills for immediate entry into careers that support our community.
- Enhancing student engagement through more equitable learning offerings.
- Improving student attendance and retention by creating a more dynamic and relevant learning environment.
- Strengthening school safety through the integration of modern security features and building enhancements.
Learn More
Please visit the District’s Renovation and Construction Project website for additional information about our upcoming building projects. Available resources include presentations to the School Board and community that review the designs for the Intermediate School, High School, and pool. www.yssd.org
Investing in Our Future
As we look to the future, we recognize that addressing our aging buildings is key to our commitment to providing innovative programming, modern teaching methods, robust activities, and a positive culture.
Educational Programming Needs
- Optimal learning environments which meet each student’s individualized needs.
- Contemporary classrooms and facilities to foster students’ creativity, collaboration, and critical thinking.
- Spaces for modern science and technical programs that align to changing student and workforce needs.
- Efficient and effective use of staffing and resources to deliver meaningful, relevant, and authentic instruction.
- Enhanced accessibility, safety, and security.
Swimming Program Considerations
- In March 2025, the District pool was closed after significant structural cracks were discovered. After careful evaluation, it was determined that constructing a new pool would be more cost-effective than extensive repairs on a pool with a limited lifespan.
- The new pool is planned for a location that will provide convenient access for school and community use, enhancing its value.
York Suburban Intermediate School
Tentatively Opening: Summer 2027
While high school renovation plans are underway, the District is also continuing its plans to build a new intermediate school that will serve all York Suburban students in third, fourth, and fifth grade, consolidating East York and Indian Rock Elementary Schools into one modern building. This new intermediate school will address critical needs by providing equitable educational opportunities, supporting each student’s personal academic growth, and optimizing operational costs for the benefit of both the school district and taxpayers. By creating an environment designed specifically for intermediate learners, we can ensure students build a strong academic and social foundation. This will prepare them to thrive as they enter middle school and high school, ultimately graduating ready to contribute meaningfully to our community.
Page 10
Understanding the District Budget
School district budgets involve many components, and community members may have questions about how tax dollars are allocated, the factors that influence the budget, and the considerations behind financial decisions. The following information is intended to provide clarity on how the District is funded, how resources are utilized, and how we work to balance fiscal responsibility with our commitment to providing an exceptional education for every student.
2025-2026 Budget Approval
In May, the Board approved a General Fund Budget for the 2025-2026 school year. The budget includes allocations for planned expenditures of $76,824,419. In addition to supporting general operating expenses and quality education programs, the budget supports our plans to renovate the high school, build a new pool, and construct a new intermediate school for our students in grades 3-5.
Funding Sources
The majority of the District’s funding (75%) comes from local sources. Only 24.3% of District revenue comes from state funding, and less than 1% comes from federal funding. To balance the 2025-2026 General Fund Budget, the Board utilized fund balance reserves (similar to a savings account) to make up the difference and increased the millage rate to 27.4488, resulting in a 3.25% tax increase.
An interactive tax calculator was developed by the District to help residents better understand their tax bills.
District Expenses
Approximately 61% of total expenditures in the 2025-2026 budget go directly toward supporting our students and staff (personnel costs, classroom supplies, services, and equipment). It is important to note that the District is required to pay tuition costs for students who reside in the District, but attend outside cyber/charter schools. For 2025-2026 this expense to taxpayers and the District is expected to exceed $3 million.
Instructional - 61.1%
Student Support - 18.5%
Debt and Other Expenses - 10.4%
Operational Support - 8.3%
Non-Instructional Expenses (athletics, extra-curricular, etc.) - 1.7%
Page 11
Points of PRIDE
School Nurse Excellence Award Recipient
Krista Wolfenberger, Certified School Nurse at East York and Indian Rock Elementary Schools, was awarded the 2025 School Nurse Excellence Award for the South Central Region of Pennsylvania. For the past ten years, Krista has been a vital part of our Health Department, going above and beyond to support the well-being of our students and staff. We’re thrilled to see her dedication recognized by the Pennsylvania Association of School Nurses and Practitioners.
All-Eastern Orchestra Honors
Alex Bien, Class of 2025, was selected for the prestigious 2025 National Association for Music Education (NAfME) All-Eastern Honors Orchestra. Participation in this distinguished ensemble is the highest honor any school musician can receive, and we were proud to have Alex represent York Suburban at this year’s festival. Alex is pictured with Ashley Thrush, District Music Teacher/Orchestra Director.
National Merit Scholarship Program Commended Scholars
Congratulations to five members of York Suburban High School’s Class of 2025 who were recognized as Commended Scholars by the 2025 National Merit Scholarship Program - (left to right) Clarence Cashour V, Dylan Dang, Lia Fogle, Ellsa Siewert, and Adam Warner. Commended students are recognized for the exceptional academic promise demonstrated by their performance on the entry-qualifying test.
District Named One of the Best Communities for Music Education
York Suburban was once again named one of the Best Communities for Music Education by the NAMM Foundation. This annual national recognition is awarded to districts that demonstrate an exceptional commitment to ensuring all students have access to music education.
Back Cover
York Suburban School District
1800 Hollywood Drive, York, PA 17403
717-885-1210 // www.yssd.org
Follow us @YorkSuburban
School Year Reminders
August 19, 2025 - Transition Day for Kindergarten, Grades 3, 6, + 9
August 20, 2025 - First Day of School for All Students
Click here to visit the District’s Communications Department website. There, residents will find a digital version of this newsletter which can be translated into other languages.
