Octorara Area School District recently welcomed state legislators and staff to campus for a legislative Luncheon, during which district leadership shared “The Next Chapter of OASD,” outlining the vision, priorities, and forward momentum shaping the district’s future.

The district was honored to host State Sen. Carolyn Comitta, State Rep. Dan Williams, State Rep. Bryan Cutler, and State Rep. John Lawrence, along with members of their teams, including Michael Hartman, chief of staff to Sen. Comitta, Nikki Whitlock, chief of staff to Sen. Katie Muth, and Bill Scholl, chief of staff to Rep. Williams. 

District leadership spoke candidly about the district’s current academic performance and the need for continued improvement. Leaders outlined the focused work underway to strengthen instructional practices, increase student achievement, and build a clear path forward through the development of the district’s strategic roadmap, which will guide priorities and goals in the years ahead.

A highlight of the luncheon was a student conversation featuring four Octorara students who shared reflections on their educational experiences and future aspirations. Their perspectives offered legislators meaningful insight into the impact of public education in the district. Guests enjoyed a lunch prepared from scratch by students in the Octorara Area Career and Technical Education Culinary Arts program, showcasing the talent, professionalism, and real-world skills being developed across the district.

“Our goal was to create space for thoughtful dialogue and to ensure our legislators hear directly from the students and educators they serve,” said Superintendent Shawn Dutkiewicz. “We are proud of the progress taking place across our district and remain committed to continued growth, collaboration, and opportunity for every student.”

“Having started my career as a teacher in the Octorara Area School District, it is a pleasure to see the district grow to meet the needs of a diverse community and prepare generations of young people for success in school, work, and life,” said State Sen. Carolyn Comitta. “Octorara is pursuing a strategic vision for the future that includes community partnerships, expanded career programs, enhanced professional development, and more. I look forward to seeing those plans progress and appreciate feeling welcomed home every time I visit or interact with Octorara schools, students, teachers, and families,” said State Sen. Carolyn Comitta.

For more information about Octorara Area School District, please visit octorara.k12.pa.us.