Susquehanna Township Middle School highlights behavior gains, cadet teaching pathway after state visit

Principal Ryan Evans told the Susquehanna Township School Board that Susquehanna Township Middle School has seen substantial behavioral and growth advances this year and outlined targets to raise academic proficiency.

Evans said the building’s MTSS and PBIS work contributed to “nearly a 50% decrease” in office discipline referrals from 2024 to 2025 and that 82% of staff reported feeling supported by building administration. He added that staff who report they ‘care about the students’ measured at 100% in the district’s October‑to‑October survey.

The presentation included student voices and a review of academic measures: Evans said MAP year‑end results showed 44% of students were growing faster than same‑age peers statewide, and he reported math growth of 79% in 2025. He acknowledged ELA growth lagged and said the school is increasing vocabulary, composition instruction and tiered interventions to reach goals (Evans said the district is targeting roughly 53% ELA proficiency and 60% math proficiency).

Student council co‑advisor Anne Wright introduced student speakers who described weekly ROAR announcements, principal advisory work and efforts to amplify student voice. Student presenters Olivia Smith and Keith Hansberger described principal’s advisory and student council activities that feed ideas to school leadership.

Speakers also described the cadet teaching pathway that provides high school students classroom experience and a route into education careers. A cadet student told the board the program was “life changing,” giving hands‑on practice in lessons and one‑on‑one student support. Board members and presenters said they hope to expand the model to other districts as a local pipeline amid a statewide teacher shortage.

The presentation followed a recent visit by Governor Shapiro, which speakers said highlighted increased state funding and district investments in staff, HVAC and counseling. The district also recognized community support: the Hannah Foundation donated $12,000 for dual‑enrollment scholarships, a donation announced during the meeting.

The board did not take policy action on academic targets during the presentation; the superintendent and principals said they would continue to report progress and refine MTSS supports.