ACLD Tillotson School Home

Executive Director Message

July 2026

Dear Tillotson Families,

We are officially halfway through the summer! Continue reading below for updates as we prepare for the fall.

Recent Happenings

Our students were able to enjoy a couple of weeks off prior to returning for our Extended School Year (ESY) Program! Our summer theme is Cars, inspired by our budding partnership with the Pittsburgh Vintage Grand Prix. Students have visited the Frick Cars and Carriages Museum to learn about Pittsburgh’s history, and have enjoyed some mini-golf and time outside as well. All while learning important academic skills!

Upcoming Events

July 3 – Observance of Independence Day; Building Closed

July 11 – Black Tie Gala sponsored by the Pittsburgh Vintage Grand Prix

July 16 – Phipps Garden Party sponsored by the Pittsburgh Vintage Grand Prix

July 18-19 – Pittsburgh Vintage Grand Prix Race Weekend

July 23 – Last Day of ESY for Students

Please be on the lookout for information coming soon regarding the upcoming school year. We are so excited for what’s in store!

Stay tuned for monthly letters, and as always, please reach out with any comments, questions, or concerns!

Tara Skalka

Executive Director

Staff Spotlight: Dr. Smith!

Dr. Dawn Smith joins our team as our new Director of Special Education. Her professional background spans both public and private school settings, where she taught students in areas of Learning Support, Autistic Support, and Life Skills Support. Her experience in these areas ensures a comprehensive and compassionate approach to the educational needs of our students. A committed lifelong learner, she earned both her bachelor's and master's degrees from Edinboro University of Pennsylvania before going on to complete her Doctorate of Education at the University of Pittsburgh. Outside of her professional life, Dawn enjoys spending quality time with her husband and their three children. They enjoy hiking, taking trips to the beach, and cheering on the Pittsburgh Pirates. Dawn is eager to begin this new chapter at ACLD Tillotson and looks forward to building strong relationships with our students and collaborating closely with families to foster an inclusive and thriving learning environment.