Small town manners with high-end professional skills

Nestled in the heart of Westmoreland County, Derry Area School District stands as a shining example of what it means to provide a strong, community-centered education. For generations, Derry Area has been shaping the futures of students who are not only academically prepared but also grounded in the values of hard work, integrity and dedication. The district takes pride in fostering a culture where students are taught to be honest, resourceful and ready to thrive in the world of blue-collar work, with many graduates choosing to continue their lives in Derry, continuing the tradition of strong local ties and community engagement.

Building a Future in Manufacturing, Medicine and Beyond
Derry Area School District’s commitment to preparing students for the workforce is deeply reflected in the careers of its alumni. Many of the district’s students come from families with strong ties to the manufacturing and medical industries, and these values are passed down to the next generation. From skilled trades to healthcare careers, Derry Area graduates enter the workforce as responsible, hardworking individuals who contribute directly to the local economy.

Derry’s students grow up in a community where values like reliability, perseverance and teamwork are everyday ideals. Whether working in manufacturing plants, construction or healthcare facilities, Derry Area students graduate with not only the skills needed for these fields, but also with a work ethic that reflects their blue-collar roots. And for many, Derry Area becomes more than just a place to grow up; it’s where they return to build their own futures. The district is proud of the fact that many graduates choose to remain in Derry, contributing to the local community and further enriching the area’s fabric.

Leading the Way in Agriculture, Horticulture and Sustainability
One of the most unique aspects of Derry Area School District is its innovative approach to career and technical education (CTE). We are the only school district in Westmoreland County to offer both Agriculture and Horticulture programs, providing students with hands-on learning experiences in the fields of sustainable agriculture, environmental science and agribusiness. These programs are designed to prepare students for careers that will be essential in the coming decades, as agriculture becomes more high-tech and environmentally conscious. By offering these programs, Derry Area is positioning students to be leaders in the Green Revolution, addressing global challenges like food security and environmental sustainability.

These programs provide students with the opportunity to grow crops, manage greenhouses and explore the latest innovations in environmental science. Graduates are prepared for careers in agribusiness, environmental conservation, sustainable farming, landscaping and more. As the world faces increasing environmental challenges, Derry Area graduates are ready to lead the way in building a more sustainable and food-secure future.

Expanding Opportunities with Makerspaces and Computer Science Courses
As the world evolves, so does Derry Area School District’s commitment to preparing students for high-demand careers. To ensure students are equipped for the future, we have invested in makerspaces and expanded our offerings in computer science — two crucial areas that are transforming industries and driving innovation.

Our makerspaces provide students with access to cutting-edge tools and resources, allowing them to engage in hands-on learning, whether designing prototypes, building robotics or experimenting with new technologies. These spaces foster creativity, critical thinking and collaboration — skills that are increasingly important in fields like manufacturing, engineering and technology. Makerspaces also give students the chance to develop problem-solving skills and become innovators, as they create and refine projects that may lead to careers in design, engineering and other technical sectors.

At the same time, Derry Area has enhanced its computer science curriculum to ensure students gain proficiency in coding, programming and software development. With technology playing a central role in every industry, the demand for skilled workers in fields such as IT, cybersecurity and data science is at an all-time high. By offering computer science courses, we are preparing students to excel in these rapidly growing fields. They graduate with the technical knowledge and digital literacy necessary to enter the workforce or pursue further education in tech-driven careers.

Preparing for the Workforce of Tomorrow
At Derry Area School District, we are focused on ensuring that all students are equipped with employable skills that align with high-priority occupations in the modern economy. Whether through the traditional CTE programs in agriculture, horticulture and manufacturing or through innovative, technology-driven initiatives like makerspaces and computer science, we are providing students with the tools they need to succeed in industries that are vital to our region and our country.

Our goal is simple: to empower the next generation of students with the skills and confidence they need to enter the workforce, pursue higher education and build rewarding careers in fields that will shape the future. And for many of our students, that future starts right here in Derry, where they continue the tradition of hard work, loyalty and community pride.

Community-Focused, Future-Ready Graduates
The Derry Area School District is more than just a place to get an education. It’s a community where parents, teachers and students work together to create a supportive and engaging environment. Many of our families have deep roots in the community, and their pride in the area is reflected in their commitment to supporting and investing in the district.

With a focus on practical skills, academic achievement and character-building, Derry Area works tirelessly to ensure its students graduate with both the knowledge and the values needed to succeed. Our school district is committed to offering a wide range of academic and extracurricular opportunities that foster growth and well-rounded individuals. From our athletics and performing arts programs to STEM initiatives and hands-on CTE pathways, Derry Area School District prepares students to meet the challenges of a rapidly changing world while remaining deeply connected to their local heritage and values.

In the end, Derry Area School District is a place where students not only learn, but they also grow into the next generation of hardworking, dedicated and resilient individuals — ready to serve their community and make a difference. Whether they go on to successful careers in the medical or manufacturing sectors, or lead the charge in the world of agriculture, technology and sustainability, Derry Area graduates carry with them the lessons and values that will last a lifetime. We are proud to be part of their journey, and we look forward to seeing the great things they will achieve in the future.

Derry Area School District: Where the Future Begins and the Community Thrives.