# Plum Borough School District
## Overview

The Plum Borough School District is a midsized, suburban public school district serving the Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania suburb of Plum. The district encompasses approximately 28 square miles (73 km$^2$) and serves a resident population of 27,131 people, according to 2020 federal census data. As of 2023, the district's enrollment stands at 3,579 students, with nearly 600 employees, including 232 teachers, maintaining a student-teacher ratio of 17:1.

## Schools

The district operates five schools:
Plum Senior High School (Grades 9–12)
Plum Middle School (Grades 7–8)
Holiday Park Intermediate School (Grades 5–6)
O'Block Elementary School (Grades K–4)
Pivik Elementary School (Grades K–4)

## Community and Living in Plum Borough

Plum Borough is an attractive place for families looking for a high-quality education in a safe and thriving community.
Safe and Family-Friendly: Low crime rates and strong community engagement provide a secure environment for children.
Affordable Living: A lower cost of living compared to nearby Pittsburgh, with access to excellent schools and community amenities.
Recreation & Parks: The borough boasts parks, trails, and recreational facilities, including Boyce Park and Plum Creek Park.
Convenient Location: Just 13 miles from downtown Pittsburgh, residents enjoy easy access to employment opportunities, cultural events, and higher education institutions.

## Academic Excellence

Plum Borough School District is dedicated to student success through rigorous academics and future-ready programs:
Advanced Placement (AP) and Honors Courses
STEM & Career Readiness Initiatives
Dual Enrollment Programs
Award-Winning Academic Programs

## Notable Alumni

Plum Borough School District has produced notable graduates in various fields, including sports, entertainment, business, and public service. Alumni include:
Pat McAfee – Former NFL punter, sports analyst, and media personality.
R. J. Umberger – Former NHL forward.
Scott McGough – MLB pitcher.
Johnny Costa – Renowned jazz pianist and musical director for Mister Rogers' Neighborhood.
Other graduates have become engineers, business leaders, journalists, and entrepreneurs.

## Portrait of a Graduate Initiative

Launched in the 2024–2025 academic year, this initiative defines key skills and attributes for student success post-graduation. Developed with input from over 80 stakeholders, it ensures a cohesive, future-ready educational experience.

## Recent Developments

Leadership: Dr. Rick Walsh, a Plum High School graduate with 30+ years in education, became superintendent in 2023.
Financial Growth: Moody’s Investors Service upgraded the district’s credit rating in 2024 due to improved financial stability.
Safety Enhancements: The Centegix CrisisAlert System was implemented to improve school security and emergency response.

## Special Education & Student Support Services

The district prioritizes accessibility and inclusion through a range of services:
Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) & 504 Plans
Mental Health & Counseling Services
Gifted Education Program
Career & Transition Services for Special Needs Students

## Plum Digital Learning Academy

A flexible online learning option offering:
Self-Paced & Hybrid Learning
AP & Dual Enrollment Options
Access to Extracurriculars & Sports
College & Career Readiness Pathways

## Extracurricular Activities & Athletics

Plum Borough School District offers a wide variety of extracurricular programs, clubs, and sports. The district competes in the Western Pennsylvania Interscholastic Athletic League (WPIAL).

### Athletics

Fall Sports:
Cheerleading
Cross Country (CoEd)
Football (7–12)
Soccer (Boys and Girls)
Tennis (Girls)
Volleyball (Girls)
Winter Sports:
Basketball (Varsity Boys and Girls, 9th Grade teams)
Rifle (CoEd)
Swimming and Diving (Boys and Girls)
Wrestling
Spring Sports:
Baseball (Varsity and 9th Grade teams)
Softball
Tennis (Boys)
Track and Field (Boys and Girls)
Volleyball (Boys)
Club Sports:
Indoor Track
Ice Hockey
Bowling
Crew