Author: Julia.Lilkendey@neric.org

  • Celebrating excellence at Pleasant Ave: S.T.A.R. Awards

    At Pleasant Ave, we believe in celebrating the achievements and character of our students, and the recent S.T.A.R. Awards Assembly was a shining example of this commitment. The event brought together students, teachers, and staff to honor the incredible efforts and positive contributions of our school community. S.T.A.R. is part of the Conscious Discipline social-emotional…

  • A legacy of learning and joy

    How one family’s tradition inspires young readers In the Greater Johnstown School District, a cherished tradition takes place each year, connecting three generations of the Faville family with the bright-eyed students of Warren Street and Pleasant Avenue elementary schools. Jamie Tallon, daughter of the late Everett “Cubby” Faville, along with her daughter Makenna, son Travis,…

  • Kindness, awareness, and action: students learn how to transform school culture through “Ryan’s Story”

    Focus on anti-bullying, suicide prevention, technology risks, and forgiveness  Students from Johnstown High School and Knox Middle School had the chance to hear from John Halligan, a man who transformed his family’s tragedy into a mission aimed at preventing others from enduring the pain he suffered after losing his 13-year-old son to suicide.  As students…

  • The renovated JHS pool is open for students and community members

    Community Swim Program Kicks off Dec. 6 This Saturday marks the community’s first opportunity of the season to take part in Johnstown’s Community Swim Program at Johnstown High School. The pool is open to members of the GJSD community every Saturday from 9 to 11 a.m., starting December 6. After the February break, the pool…

  • “Book Tasting” sparks curiosity and enthusiasm for reading

    Crystal Keck, the High School Library Media Specialist, is organizing book tastings for eighth-grade students. This initiative offers them a chance to discover books they might not typically choose. She noted that class schedules can be quite unpredictable leading up to the holidays, making this activity an excellent way to enrich their time in a…

  • Coffee cart project brews skills and community at Warren Street Elementary

    Student-run ‘Grounds of Kindness’ teaches math, social skills, and more In Mrs. Merritt’s class at Warren Street Elementary, Friday mornings overflow with additional kindness, learning, and laughter. The student-operated coffee cart, aptly titled “Grounds of Kindness,” serves as a bustling hub of activity where lessons extend beyond traditional textbooks. “We had another coffee cart run…

  • GJSD Celebrates Principal Cotter for National Principal’s Month

    Spotlight on Pleasant Ave. Principal Cory Cotter for supporting children’s academic and social growth Pleasant Avenue Elementary lives by the motto “Be Safe, Be Helpful, Be a S.T.A.R.,” approaching each day with enthusiasm, care, and a deep commitment to student well-being. At the heart of this supportive culture is Principal Cory Cotter, who stands at…

  • 22 New Educators Welcomed by the District

    Superintendent Koster and Assistant Superintendent Hale lead a day of orientation and community engagement The first day of school is officially in the books for our newest educators! The District was thrilled to welcome 22 new teaching staff members who joined Superintendent Alicia D. Koster, Assistant Superintendent Scott Hale, and our entire administrative team for…