Hartman Intermediate Honored As A PA Blue Ribbon School

The Ellwood City Area School District is honored and excited to share truly wonderful news:

Hartman Intermediate School has been recognized as a 2025 Pennsylvania Blue Ribbon School by the Pennsylvania Department of Education!

This achievement reflects the dedication and collaboration of our entire community. Hartman is one of only thirteen schools across the Commonwealth selected for this distinction. Hartman was selected for closing achievement gaps.

“I am incredibly proud of our students, staff, and community for earning this Blue Ribbon recognition. Coming out of the challenges of COVID, we came together with resilience and determination to support one another and ensure every child had the opportunity to succeed. This award reflects the hard work of our entire Hartman family and the leadership shown at every level to close the achievement gap and make a true comeback,” said Principal Frank Keally.

“This recognition would not have been possible without the unwavering dedication and effort of our students, families, community partners, School Board, and staff. The Pennsylvania Blue Ribbon honor is a testament to what we can achieve together and we are so proud to be honored” says Superintendent Amy Anderson.

For more information on the Pennsylvania Blue Ribbon Schools recognition program, CLICK HERE.

“Ellwood City, Pennsylvania, is a resilient, blue-collar town just outside of Pittsburgh. Like our town, Hartman Intermediate School embodies grit, loyalty, and a fierce commitment to our children. These qualities shine through our school in the form of strong relationships, high expectations, and an unwavering belief in every child’s potential.

At Hartman, we embrace the philosophy that interest builds achievement and success breeds success. Students engage in meaningful, hands-on learning experiences that connect them to their community and spark real-world thinking. Programs like Shark Tank where students pitch creative business ideas to local professionals; and Pizza Apprentice which blends financial literacy with culinary fun, promotes collaboration, innovation, and confidence.

What truly sets us apart is the strength of our relationships—among staff, students, families, and the broader community. Many of our staff members live in Ellwood City, which deepens trust and fosters a school culture where students feel known, valued, and supported. We prioritize character development and teach students to persevere through challenges, building both academic and emotional resilience.

Our dedicated school board, engaged families, and invested community partners enthusiastically support Hartman. Hartman is more than a school, it is a hub of collaboration, care, and opportunity. We are proud of our tradition, eager to embrace innovation, and committed to preparing students not just for the next grade, but for a life of learning and purpose. At Hartman Intermediate, excellence is personal—and it shows.”