As the 2022-2023 School Year comes to a close, Mars Area School District is saying goodbye to four retiring teachers/staff members:
She began her teaching career at Mars Area School District in 1999 as an emotional support, learning support and gifted support teacher (5-12) before becoming a seventh grade English/language arts teacher.
She holds a master’s degree in curriculum development & leadership from Point Park University and a bachelor’s degree in elementary education (K-6)/ special education (K-12) from Slippery Rock University.
In her retirement, she plans to travel and spend time with family.
Hobaugh, who holds a bachelor’s degree in education from Clarion University, began his teaching career as a physical science and environmental science teacher at Mars Area School District in 1988. He has also taught microbiology and genetics semester courses and, most recently, biology for the past more than 20 years.
Among his favorite memories are seeing his two sons attend and graduate from Mars Area High School. He also recalls both seeing and hearing of student success at the high school and beyond.
In his retirement, he plans to spend time with his family, travel, go hiking, and volunteer.
Joswiak began his career as a health & physical education teacher (K-8) within the District in 1989 and he has held numerous coaching positions. He holds a master’s degree in health education from Pennsylvania State University and a bachelor’s degree in health & physical education from Slippery Rock University.
In his retirement, he plans to relax, spend time with family, and continue growing his business, Camp Trees Landscaping.
Kasten began her career as a long-term substitute English teacher at Mars Area High School in 1989 before being hired for her current position the following year. She holds a master’s degree in reading specialist from the University of Pittsburgh and a bachelor’s degree in secondary education (English) from Clarion University
Among her favorite memories at Mars Area are “teaching so many wonderful students throughout the years, working with dedicated teachers, ski trips to Seven Springs, and advising the English Festival academic team.”
In her retirement, she plans to travel, golf, garden, and learn new hobbies.
McElheny began her career at the Mars Primary Center (Crowe Ave.) in 1985 and has taught multi-age Grades 1-2, as well as Grade 1 and 2. She holds a master’s degree in mathematics and a bachelor’s degree in elementary education from Indiana University of Pennsylvania.
Of her favorite memories in the District, “I have always loved raising Monarch butterflies with my class. Most of all, I have loved being with my students and all of my school family.”
In her retirement, she plans to train her new puppy, Ollie; to travel, spend time with family and friends, and work on home improvements.
Thomas, who began her career in the District as a long-term substitute in 1989, was hired as a learning support teacher at Mars Area High School in 1990, before serving as a learning support teacher (3-7) and then moving to the position of third grade teacher.
She holds a bachelor’s degree in elementary and special education from Clarion University as well as certification as a reading specialist.
In her retirement, she plans to relax, read, bake, garden, and take family vacations.
Winek began as a long-term substitute teacher in 1990 and served as a secondary science teacher for her entire career at Mars Area. She holds a master’s degree in education from the University of Pittsburgh and a bachelor’s degree in chemistry from Dickinson College.
In her retirement, she plans to vacation in Hawaii as well as to travel and babysit her grandchildren.
For more information, call (724) 625-1518.