North Hills students perform and student rep reports sold-out spring musical

The March 12 North Hills Board of Education meeting opened with a performance by beginning- and eighth-grade band students under the direction of Tom Hartwell.

Hartwell thanked the board for its support, listed recent accomplishments — including a Bandorama finale with about 375 students and superior ratings at adjudications — and previewed upcoming performances such as PMEA events, a Disney trip and singing the national anthem at PNC Park. "Thank you for investing in music," Hartwell said, adding appreciation for community and administrative support.

Following the performance, student representative Jane gave a report: the spring musical "Mamma Mia" had its preview and all six shows were sold out; a spring sports pep rally was held at Martarelli Stadium on March 10; 16 students were inducted into the National Technical Honor Society and 26 into the Spanish Honor Society; James Meininger's advanced home maintenance class built a storage cart for the bocce team; and prom is scheduled for May 2 with tickets on sale March 23. Jane also reminded the board that the "Second Chance Sparkle" donation drive runs through March 21.

Why it matters: The reports highlighted high student engagement in performing arts, athletics and career-technical programs and the district’s community-facing events.

The board thanked the students and families before moving into the business portions of the meeting.