In the Alumni Highlights series, we catch up with City High alumni to see what they’ve been up to post-graduation. This installment focuses on Sara Gandziarski of City High Class of 2009.
 

Sara pictured in her classroom at PPS Concord!

Q: What did you think would be your career path when you were a student at City High? How has that changed or stayed the same after graduating high school?

When I was a student at City High, I thought I would become a teacher and that career path has stayed the same ever since. I've always had a strong passion for working with children, especially those with special needs. That passion guided my decisions after high school and continues to inspire me in my work today.
 

Q: Tell us more about your post high school educational experiences!

After high school, I attended Edinboro University (now PennWest Edinboro) in Erie, where I majored in Early Childhood Education and Special Education. I became a certified teacher qualified to teach Early Childhood (PreK-4) and Special Education (PreK-8). Shortly after graduation, I was hired as a Pre-K teacher in the Pittsburgh Public School District. I later returned to Edinboro to complete my master's degree in education, specializing in Autism.

Q: What was your internship experience at City High like? How did it inform your college experience and/or career trajectory?

My internship at City High was with the Urban League Charter School. Becuase of my sports schedule, I completed my internship during the month of April when City High students were off. This actually worked to my advantage—I was able to spend full school days at the school and truly experience the day-to-day life of a teacher. I had the opportunity to support student learning, build relationships with both students and staff, and see firsthand the impact a teacher can make.

This experience confirmed my passion for education and solidified my decision to pursue a teaching career. It motivated me to continue my studies and dedicate myself to helping students learn and grow.

Q: How did City High prepare you for life after high school?

City High prepared me for life after high school in so many meaningful ways. The school emphasized real-life skills that I still use today like financial literacy, navigating public transportation, and maintaining professionalism.

I also developed strong communication skills, including how to confidently present and speak in public, which have been incredibly valuable in both college and my career. Additionally, I learned the importance of teamwork, adaptability, and flexibility in different environments. These experiences gave me a strong foundation for success beyond high school.

A senior photo provided by Sara.

Q: What do you think was the most important skill that you learned at City High and use in your adult life?

I believe the most important skills I learned at City High were determination and goal setting. City High taught me the value of staying focused, working hard, and setting clear goals to achieve what I want in life. That mindset has helped me overcome challenges, stay motivated, and continue growing personally and professionally.

Q: Tell us about your current role and organization!

I am currently a teacher in the Pittsburgh Public School District, servcing as the K-2 Autistic Support teacher at Pittsburgh Concord. In this role, I work with young learners on the autism spectrum by helping them grow academically, socially and emotionally through individualized support and a nurturing classroom environment. I have the opportunity to support these young learners through differentiated instruction tailored to each student's unique needs and goals.
 

Q: What do you love most about your current role?

What I love most about my job is watching my students learn and grow over time. Because I work with the same students for up to three years—from kindergarten through second grade—I get to witness their incredible progress firsthand. It's especially rewarding to help students improve their communication skills and support families who may be struggling to navigate how to best help their child.

I also take pride in advocating for my students to ensure that they receive the services and resources they need to be successful. Being a consistent part of their educational journey is both a privilege and a joy.
 

Q: What advice would you have to someone interested in pursuing a career in your field?

My advice is to make sure you're pursuing a career in education for reasons that are truly meaningful and rewarding to you. Teaching is so much more than delivering lessons—it's about supporting families, meeting with parents, collaborating with colleagues, and advocating for your students' needs.

The most impactful educators are those who are genuinely passionate about teaching and committed to making a difference. That passion is what carries you through the challenges and makes the work so fulfilling.

Q: City High is big on preparing students for the real world by promoting work-life balance. How do you maintain work-life balance? Where do you find joy in your life outside of work?

I maintain work-life balance by prioritizing time with my family and being present in the moments that matter most. I find so much joy in spending time with my son—playing, laughing, and watching him grow. Being a mom brings a whole new perspective to my work and helps me stay grounded.

Q: Can you share some advice for current City High students?

Take your experience at City High seriously, and make the most of everything the school has to offer. From internships to life skills training, these opportunities truly prepare you for the real world. 

Stay connected with the people you meet—those relationships can become lifelong friendships or even family! (Fun fact: my husband, sister-in-law, and brother-in-law are all City High alumni from the Class of 2009, just like me!)

Enjoy the journey, work hard, and know that what you're doing now is building the foundation for your future.  

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If you are a City High alumni and are interested in being highlighted, you can email napolitan@cityhigh.org.