cillig@altoonamirror.com
Michael Strasser has served as superintendent of the Cambria Heights School
District since 2009. He will wrap up his 37-year teaching career at the end of this school year.
PATTON Michael Strasser has faced numerous challenges throughout his 37-year teaching career.
But of all the obstacles he has faced, arguably none have been more difficult than COVID-19.
Entering the final weeks of his career in public education, Strasser reflected on the stressful yet rewarding journey he has witnessed.
“To see the teachers, students and parents rise to the challenge when changes were not only occurring weekly, but daily and sometimes hourly, made me proud to be a part of Cambria Heights and this resilient community we call home,” said Strasser, who is set to retire at the end of the school year and current Director of Education Ken Kerchenske will become the district’s new superintendent.
amollenauer@altoonamirror.com
Appalachia Intermediate Unit 8 has received a grant of $69,570 from the Grable Foundation of Pittsburgh.
The funding, provided to the STEM Ecosystem, will go toward equipment, online resources and programs to enhance STEM-related programs for schools, public libraries and career and technical centers in Cambria, Somerset, Blair and Bedford counties.
The grant is expected to impact unemployment rates in Pennsylvania by providing opportunities for students to gain skills in science, technology, engineering and math, which in turn will provide career and entrepreneurial opportunities for area residents.
Janel Vancas, IU8 director of Mass Customized Learning & Curriculum Innovation, who leads the IU Stem Lending Center, discussed the organization’s goals regarding how to invest the grant funds.