by Jake Reisinger, staff writer

At the Sept. 14 board meeting, PENNCREST School District hired Ms. Tracy Lobins as a replacement teacher for the Saegertown junior high science classes. Ms. Lobins will fill the position left vacant when Mr. George Nahay, who moved from junior high science to technology education after Mr. Jeff Patrick left the district before the 2017-2018 school year.

For the past six weeks, Ms. Alicia Weiss has filled in the position. The experience has been slightly difficult for her and the students, considering English is her major. “I have really enjoyed subbing here, and I wish I could have a position here,” Ms. Weiss said. She noted that she has learned a lot of science from teaching herself the lessons before she covers them with the students. Her last day with the students will be tomorrow, Oct. 27.

Ms. Lobins’ start date was delayed because she had to fulfill her professional obligations to Berkshire High School which is in Burton, Ohio. She has six years of experience in teaching middle school science. Lobins has a B.A. in Environmental Geoscience and a Masters in Middle and Secondary Education from Edinboro University. Her experience is what made PENNCREST School District choose her over the other applicants.

“I am very excited to start at Saegertown and hope to continue to work there for many years,” Ms. Lobins said. “I love science and love teaching science.”