Meet PCS West’s New Art & Makerspace Teacher!

Provident Charter School West (PCS West), is a tuition-free charter school serving 1st-5th grade students with dyslexia and other language-based learning differences in Southwestern Pennsylvania. But that’s only one part of what makes us special. Our tight-knit community, small class sizes, and innovative curriculum are raising the bar for student success. And an essential component of that success is our TEACHERS!

PCS West teachers are passionate about their role in shaping students’ futures. They provide the academic foundation and encouragement needed for our students to find success at every level, and leave PCS West ready to tackle middle school and beyond. 

To learn more, we sat down with one of our newest teachers, Mr. Austin Almendarez, to ask a few questions.

“Provident Charter School West Art and Makerspace teacher Austin Almendarez smiling in a classroom in front of bins of art supplies”

What is your role at PCS West and how long have you been at our school?

I am the Art and Makerspace teacher. This is my first year with PCS!

What inspired you to become an educator?

My favorite teacher was Miss Pulcini, 3rd grade at St. Titus Elementary. She was a teacher who loved her students, was invested in our personal growth as well as our education, and made sure that we had fun in school. Picking one favorite is difficult, so I also want to praise Mrs. O’Bryan and Mrs. Zak, my Art and Chorus teachers at Quigley Catholic High School who similarly fostered us as both people and students in their classes.

How does PCS West’s mission and vision align with your personal values?

PCS West’s mission of meeting student needs and working with their strengths to achieve success is what I believe education should be. I am grateful that our class sizes and support systems make it possible for us to do so.

What do you love most about your role?

I love that as a Specialist I get to work with students on long-term projects which challenge their abilities and lead to successes the students may never have foreseen.  

Looking for an academically excellent charter school with inspiring teachers?

Contact us and ENROLL TODAY.

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About Provident Charter West

Provident Charter West is a tuition-free brick and mortar charter school serving 1st-5th grade students with dyslexia and other language-based learning differences in Southwestern Pennsylvania. Our innovative classroom model and effective teaching techniques inspire all learners. Students are supported by a close-knit community of specially-trained teachers, staff and engaged families within Beaver, Allegheny, & Butler Counties. Join PCS West today – ask about free transportation!