Dear Sheridan Families,

                It is my honor to introduce myself, Peter Shahda, as the principal of Sheridan Elementary School.  As your new Principal, I am very much looking forward to working collaboratively with you to develop a shared vision that will incorporate our core values and beliefs and ensure the academic success of each child at Sheridan.  As a famous African proverb states, “It takes a whole village to raise a child”.  In our journey to achieve such a goal, we will work together with community groups and agencies to design and implement programs and activities that will meet each of our students’ academic, social, emotional, and physical needs.  Only then can we truly embody a true community approach to student success. 

                As an Allentown native, I am proud to say that I am a product of the Allentown School District.  My academic achievements include a Bachelor of Science degree in Elementary Education and a Master of Arts degree in Classroom Technology.  Additionally, I worked for and earned a principal certification through Lehigh University.  I worked as a classroom teacher at Sheridan for sixteen years before becoming the assistant principal of Roosevelt Elementary School the past four years. 

                In addition to my role as an educator, I am first and foremost a husband and father.  I am a husband to my loving and supportive wife Nasma, who is a mother to two amazing children.  This upcoming school year, my daughter Jasmine begins tenth grade and my son Marc begins sixth grade.  As a parent I always want what is best for my children and will work tirelessly to ensure your children have the best possible experiences at Sheridan Elementary School.  I  look forward to introducing my family to the Sheridan community in the near future.

My core mission is to help each student who walks through the doors of Sheridan Elementary School overcome the many obstacles each faces on a daily basis so that each may grow to become a productive member of our society.  It was with this in mind that I graduated from college and returned to the Allentown School District so I could continue to help improve our community for every child that calls it home. I want all of our students to understand that, just as I have risen above expectations that were set for me, that they too can succeed and reach beyond any such expectations to realize their true greatness.   

I am always willing to meet to discuss any thoughts and/or concerns you may have.  I will openly communicate the happenings in our school through whatever form of communication is easiest for you be it face-to face meetings, phone calls, emails, or Dojo.  I also would like to encourage your participation in school events and programs throughout the year to help ensure the success of each Sheridan child.  

Sincerely,

Peter Shahda

Principal

Sheridan Elementary School