District School Spotlight AASD

Avella School District, while small with fewer than 520 students in grades K-12, stands out for its innovative programs, supportive environment, and dedication to fostering student growth and community involvement. The district offers a rich blend of academic, artistic, and extracurricular opportunities that inspire and engage students at every level.

At the elementary level, Avella emphasizes kindness, empathy, and positivity, creating a nurturing atmosphere for young learners. This commitment to community is exemplified by the school's Blessing Boxes project during November. Each grade level contributes specific Thanksgiving food items to create dinner baskets for families in need within the district. Additional donations from churches and organizations allow the school to purchase gift cards for turkeys, ensuring a complete meal for every family.

Each morning, students in grades 5 and 6 lead the production of morning announcements, supported by their teachers. Using a green-screen setup, these broadcasts include updates such as lunch menus, birthdays, and upcoming events. This hands-on experience not only builds students’ confidence but also teaches valuable organizational and communication skills.

Avella elementary also offers unique opportunities to support and inspire students academically and socially. The daily Sunshine Club provides a welcoming start to the day for students who may need help with homework, skill remediation, or simply a friendly face to encourage attendance and connection. Additionally, Tail Waggin' Tutors visit the school each Thursday and Friday, allowing students to practice reading with service dogs. This program has become a favorite among students, as it provides both academic and emotional support. The district is also exploring options to bring another support dog to the school, following the positive impact of a previous therapy dog for Life Skills and Emotional Support classrooms.

Avella Elementary takes pride in its vibrant and inspiring environment, with colorful artwork brightening hallways, gymnasiums, and even ceilings. This visually stimulating setting fosters creativity and makes learning spaces welcoming for young students. The arts and music programs further enhance this atmosphere, shaping students' creativity, discipline, and confidence while encouraging self-expression, critical thinking, and collaboration. Kindergarten classrooms emphasize sensory play, engaging children’s senses to boost cognitive, motor, and social-emotional development during these critical early years, rounding out the school’s commitment to nurturing the whole child.

The school is also expanding its STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Math) opportunities. One program, Brick by Brick, was introduced in partnership with the Intermediate Unit. Plans are underway to launch an after-school STEAM program in collaboration with the elementary art teacher, further enriching the district’s offerings for hands-on learning. The younger students are already benefitting from advanced technology like vinyl cutters, t-shirt presses, and 3D printers, which foster creativity and problem-solving skills.

Collaborative learning is central to Avella Elementary’s approach. Second-grade students practice reading fluency with sixth-grade buddies four days a week, strengthening skills and building mentorship across grade levels. This effort is supported by a comprehensive English Language Arts (ELA) curriculum that integrates nonfiction writing, speaking, and listening into social studies. Programs like Heggerty and Fundations lay a strong literacy foundation, while Kid Writing develops early writing stamina. Fluency and comprehension remain key focuses across all grades.

Avella High School’s standout program, CREW, supports students' personal and academic growth through a small-group advisory model. Each CREW consists of an advisor and ten students who remain together for all four years of high school. Weekly sessions focus on post-secondary planning, goal setting, social well-being, citizenship, and community service. CREW members also plan student-led conferences, participate in quarterly challenges, and engage in leadership field trips.

This initiative is fully funded by the student-run Eagle Eye Cafe, a coffee shop operated by students who are professionally trained in espresso-making. The cafe serves Crazy Horse Coffee and features seasonal flavors, with students managing the entire coffee-making process, from grinding beans to crafting drinks. This entrepreneurial experience provides invaluable life skills, supports the CREW program, and is set to expand into mobile operations next year.

The high school art club complements CREW by creating handmade items such as magnets, bracelets, and tumblers that celebrate the program’s mission. Creativity and teamwork are constantly on display as students actively contribute to the school’s culture.

Avella School District is a testament to what a small, close-knit community can achieve. The district provides students with a wealth of opportunities to grow academically, socially, and emotionally, fostering a culture of creativity, collaboration, and support. With its strong emphasis on holistic education, Avella ensures that every student is equipped for success today and in the future.