TRANSITIONS 2018-2019 - A Back to School Publication for North Allegheny Middle School Families - North Allegheny School District
←
→
Page content transcription
If your browser does not render page correctly, please read the page content below
Headline
TRANSITIONS 2018-2019
A Back to School Publication for North Allegheny Middle School Families
TRANSITIONS | 1
First Day of School: Thursday, August 23, 2018
Contents
A Letter from the Superintendent................................................. 3
Welcome to Middle School.............................................................. 4
Key Information for Middle School Students............................ 5
Tips for Sixth Graders......................................................................... 6
Middle Schools Have Much in Common..................................... 7
Attendance and Concerns............................................................... 8
Don’t Forget.......................................................................................... 9
It Takes Someone Like You to Volunteer..................................... 10
From the Desk of the School Nurse.............................................. 11
The School Lunch Program.............................................................. 13
District News & Notes........................................................................ 14
Keystone Exams Overview............................................................... 16
Curriculum Update............................................................................. 17
Facilities Department Update......................................................... 20
School Closing/Delay Information................................................ 21
Attending a Home Football Game................................................ 22
Diversity at North Allegheny School District............................. 23
NASD Board of School Directors.................................................... 24
2018-2019 Key Calendar Dates...................................................... 25
TRANSITIONS | 2
A Letter from the Superintendent
Dear Parents/Guardians,
Welcome to the 2018-2019 school year! Preparing all students for success in a changing world is more than the North Allegheny School District Mission; it is the organizing principle we use each
and every day. As a nationally-recognized school district, we are constantly committed to finding new ways in which to improve ourselves while maintaining the traditions that have led to our past
successes. We are very proud of the efforts of our students and staff members who continue to excel in all aspects of academics, athletics, arts, and other activities.
The North Allegheny School District’s Comprehensive Plan identifies six major Goals through which the District can realize its Mission. These Goals provide the foundation and framework that help
guide the actions of the District and include:
1. Academic Achievement: We will support the achievement of all students at the highest level of their individual abilities in all
Measuring Success Framework
areas.
2. Safe and Supportive Schools: We will provide a safe, welcoming, and well-maintained learning environment.
3. Stewardship: We will maximize efficiencies in all areas of the District for the continuous improvement and optimization of
resources.
4. Curriculum and Professional Practice: We will offer high quality instruction built upon a dynamic curriculum that
fosters creativity, critical thinking, and life-long learning.
5. Innovation: We will innovate our educational practices and become leaders in technology integration.
6. Community Engagement: We will foster a collaborative culture that invites and celebrates community support and
participation.
Last year, the District unveiled the Measuring Success Framework. This framework looks at our success much more
holistically and focuses on Achievement & Growth, Future Preparation, School Climate, and Student & Staff Wellness. The
Framework is an important tool in communicating how we measure success to our students, staff, and community. Data collected
through each of these measures is analyzed annually and shared with the community through our Measuring Success Annual
Report.
School Climate will once again be an important focus area for us in the coming year. From a safety standpoint, the District recently
created a Manager of School Safety and Security position, and NASH and NAI will each welcome School Resource Officers. Coupled
with the tremendous resources provided through our counseling and pupil personnel staff, these new positions will help create
environments that are secure and supportive. In addition, we are rolling out a professional development program that addresses
diversity and fosters a respectful environment that is welcoming to all students and staff members. If we are truly preparing all
students for success in a changing world, we must ensure that our students are able to thrive in inclusive environments where our differences are celebrated.
We will continue to explore ways to personalize the learning environments for our students, most notably through our FOCUS 2020 initiative. FOCUS 2020 involves a significant 1:1 initiative, creating
equitable learning environments for students and providing the necessary supports for educators to be successful. This year, students in grades 9-12 will be provided laptop computers, and students in
grades 1-8 will receive iPads. Over the past three years we have found that technology is a powerful lever that can be pulled to create engaging and authentic learning experiences that truly embrace
the four C’s of communication, collaboration, critical thinking, and creativity.
Finally, look for ongoing updates throughout the year, including Beyond the Stripes, which will provide you with important information and opportunities for engagement to help you navigate the
challenges of being a parent/guardian in today’s world. We are always looking to leverage the District website and social media, particularly Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram to tell the story of all the
great things that are taking place across the District.
Thank you for being an important part of the North Allegheny School District and I wish you well during the 2018-2019 school year!
Sincerely,
Robert Scherrer, Ed.D.
Superintendent
@scherrer_bob
TRANSITIONS | 3
Welcome to Middle School!
Dear Middle School Parents/Guardians, Middle School Principals
Welcome to Middle School! We are excited to welcome your child to the 2018-2019 school year. We look
forward to working closely with you to make this a positive and rewarding educational experience for
your child. Your son or daughter will experience the challenge of a curriculum that promotes critical
thinking and creativity, and will thrive in the safe and caring learning environment of our middle schools.
Middle school is special, and we want our schools to be developmentally responsive to the unique
needs of adolescent children. During this stage, your child will develop strong relationships with peers.
Friendships may also change as your child develops a sense of identity. We offer many activities that
foster social development, responsible decision-making, and a positive self-image. Encourage your
child to get involved. Your child will meet new friends with similar interests and will develop a sense
of belonging to the school community. Explore our building websites with your child to view clubs, Katherine Jenkins Erin Crimone
Principal – CMS Asst. Principal – CMS
organizations, and other available opportunities. There is something in our middle schools for everyone!
@CarsonMSTigers
Your child’s success in academics, the arts, athletics, and extracurricular and co-curricular activities is
important to us. During the first month of school, each middle school will set aside a special day to draw
attention to such things as team building, diversity, bully prevention, school rules, and expectations.
Please ask your son or daughter to tell you about CMS’s Someplace Special Day, IMS’s Proud to be Ingomar
Day, or MMS’s Marshall Matters Day.
One aspect to a successful school year is communication. Each day, middle school students hear
morning announcements that remind them of upcoming club meetings, special schedules, and
school-wide events or activities. For your convenience, announcements are posted on each building’s
website and your child has access to them via Blackboard. Please review the District Activities Calendar
to highlight important dates and times of events occurring at each building. Open House and Parent David Deramo John Morey
Coffees are among the important dates to note. Principal – IMS Asst. Principal – IMS
@IngomarMiddle
Building strong relationships between students, parents/guardians, teachers, and the school community
is a priority. Teachers, counselors, and administrators welcome your questions and your feedback. We
want to work in partnership with you to create a supportive atmosphere that promotes thoughtfulness,
individuality, and respect. The staff at each middle school is dedicated to quality teaching and learning.
We also realize that your child’s well-being includes not only academic growth, but also social and
emotional growth. We look forward to working closely with you to create an exceptional middle school
experience!
We can’t wait to greet your child on the first day of school, August 23, 2018!
Respectfully, Daniel Swoger Matthew Buchak
Principal – MMS Asst. Principal – MMS
Middle School Administrative Team
@MMStigerpride
TRANSITIONS | 4
Key Information for Middle School Students
Please be sure to: can access information regarding their child’s classes.
The Middle School Day
• Check cell phone numbers. Parents/guardians will receive an email from the District prior
The middle schools are open to students each school day
• Check the appropriate boxes for permission to receive to the first day of school with their parent-specific username/
from 7:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Students arriving before 8 a.m. medication for minor aches or illness.
should report to designated areas where supervision is password for Blackboard access. Blackboard will provide you
• Update medical information that pertains to the student’s
provided. with access to your child’s homework and class materials/
health status.
resources. The Tyler Student Information System continues
Opening Bell: 8:00 a.m. Students report to their assigned to be the electronic tool to view grades and attendance
homerooms. Those students who have obligations to fulfill School Supplies information.
in another section of the building must secure a hall pass
On the first day of school, your child needs to bring their
from their homeroom teacher. Make-up Work
District-issued iPad FULLY CHARGED, a pencil, and a spiral
Late Bell: 8:10 a.m. Students who arrive to school late notebook. Each team or individual teacher will share specific
must report to the office with a written excuse from his/her Teachers post homework on Blackboard each day. This
supply requests during the first week of school. Assignment resource is an effective way for students to stay informed
parent/guardian explaining the reason for tardiness. books are provided by the District free to all sixth graders and
Dismissal Time: 2:58 p.m. about school work that was missed during an absence.
available at a minimal cost to seventh and eighth graders. Students should also check with their teachers when they
Tardy Policy General suggestions from the teachers at the three middle return from an absence to ensure complete understanding
schools are that students have a large (two or three inch) of missed instruction. During an extended absence, parents/
There are only three (3) reasons that are recognized as valid guardians may contact the school office for details. All
binder (not a Trapper), plenty of loose-leaf notebook paper,
excuses for tardiness: make-up work for absences of one week or more must be
number two pencils, pens with blue or black ink, and a
1. severe weather conditions; completed within two weeks after returning to school. If
zippered pencil case that can be snapped into the binder.
2. bus transportation difficulties; the work is not completed, a failing grade may be recorded.
Your child will also need earbuds and may prefer to use a
3. personal accident or illness.
stylus to write on the iPad. If you are purchasing supplies for Make-up work is the student’s responsibility.
Tardy slips are issued for tardiness to school. Students who your child’s homework, you may also want to buy markers,
are late must obtain a tardy admission slip from the office. colored pencils, scissors, a ruler, scotch tape, hole reinforcers, Cell Phones
It must be presented to the class teacher of the period in and a hole puncher.
which the tardiness occurs and, at the close of the session, Cell phones are to be turned off and put away during the
is to be left with the homeroom teacher. For the third school day. Cell phones will be confiscated from students
unexcused tardy to school and every unexcused tardy
Buses who disregard this policy. Parents/guardians will be
thereafter, students will be assigned one detention. Approximately 90% of our students ride the bus to school. required to pick up a confiscated cell phone in the school
The safety of all students is of prime importance. Safety office. Telephones are available for student use in each
Tardy To Class procedures are maintained through organization and middle school. Repeated infractions of this rule will result in
When late for class, the student must have an admission slip. good citizenship. The responsibility for bus safety rests detention. Parents/guardians may contact their child through
Lateness is determined by the classroom teacher. Students with all persons involved. Students are to ride ONLY THEIR the school office. NOTE: Please do not text or call your child
who are tardy to class without an admission slip may receive a ASSIGNED BUS. A request by parents/guardians for special during the school day. If your child is ill, they should report
warning, a misconduct card, and/or a detention. permission for a student to ride an alternate bus MUST to the nurse to be dismissed. If you receive a text from your
be approved by transportation. A parent/guardian must child, please call the school.
contact transportation in advance, and then send a note to
Emergency Medical Forms the school’s front office indicating permission was granted. Custody/Court Orders
Students who choose to walk home rather than ride their
Emergency Medical Information for 2018-2019 must be bus must submit a note from their parents/guardians which At times, there are legal papers in the form of custody
reviewed in Tyler SIS as soon as possible. The portal will be outlines the request and indicates the date for which the agreements or court order documents that pertain to
open August 1, 2018 to allow parents the opportunity to request is made. This rule does not apply to students playing students and their specific circumstances. A copy of any of
update emergency contacts and preference for analgesic these forms must be presented to the school office annually.
intramurals.
medication in the “Update Household Data” tile. These Even if the paperwork isn’t modified or canceled, parents/
updates cannot be performed through the Tyler 360 app at guardians are required to submit copies at the start of each
this time. The information requiring updates contains direct Blackboard school year to assure that any necessary paperwork is up-
contact information to be referenced in the event of illness or Blackboard (Bb) is a learning management system designed to-date.
injury. to provide an interactive platform where parents/guardians
TRANSITIONS | 5
Tips for Sixth Graders
There is much to look forward to as a sixth grader beginning Students are Part of a Team
middle school. For example, there is the opportunity for
students to make new friends from different elementary Each sixth grader is assigned to an academic team, which
schools. There are also many opportunities to participate can consist of three to five teachers. Students study all
in classes and activities not available in elementary school. academic subjects with only the students on that team.
Sixth graders and their parents/guardians often have many Students’ classes are all in close proximity to one another. The
questions about middle school life. Here is some information academic teachers get to know the students on their team
to help ensure a smooth start for school. very well. Students must travel to other parts of the building
for lunch, music, physical education, or unified arts – but
A Glimpse of the Very First Day when they return to their team area, it has the friendly feeling
of a “home away from home.”
The first day of middle school is very exciting. Students’
schedules are available on Parent Portal two days before Students are assigned to teams through a very thoughtful
school starts. Students will report to the homeroom listed process. The team placement decision is reached only after
on the schedule (IMS 6th graders will report to the IMS the counselors and principals examine many important
auditorium). The homeroom teachers will explain the details from each child’s profile. It is our goal to create
school procedures and review the school rules. Students balanced and heterogeneous teams.
will be assigned a locker which they may need to share with To every extent possible, each team is balanced in the
a classmate. Cafeteria procedures will be explained and number of boys and girls assigned. Each team reflects the
there will be time to answer questions. Adjusting to a new range of abilities and talents found in our North Allegheny
school takes time so teachers will be in the halls ready to student population.
help students find classrooms. After a few days, new middle
school students develop confidence and move through New Experiences at Middle School
school like an old pro!
One new experience in middle school having a specific
counselor assigned alphabetically to each student to help
What Does a Sixth Grader’s Schedule Look Like?
students realize academic success and develop positive
The middle school philosophy is one of exploration, so relationships. Counselors take a lead in scheduling and
students take a wide variety of courses. All sixth graders take standardized test administration, and respond to parent/
classes in reading, English, social studies, math, and science. guardian and student concerns as they arise.
These classes fill five of the periods in the seven-period day.
They also take classes in art, family and consumer sciences, Other new experiences include: a school-wide intramural
keyboarding, and technology education, collectively called program offering a variety of sports for each season; an
unified arts. Every other day, all students have a physical annual talent show in addition to semi-annual band,
education (PE) class. On the first day, the physical education orchestra, and choral concerts; interdisciplinary units
teacher will tell the students what clothing they need for planned by team teachers; and building-wide community
class. Students will be assigned a locker to secure their service projects.
belongings for PE. On the alternating days, students take
either band, orchestra, chorus, or general music.
TRANSITIONS | 6
Middle Schools Have Much in Common
Although each middle school prides itself on being unique, Student Portal at 8:00 a.m. on August 21, which provides Middle School Picture Dates
the three middle schools have much in common. First and the maximum amount of time needed to continue to
foremost, the curriculum is consistent throughout the adjust schedules before publishing them. Once published, Students will receive a packet of information with package
North Allegheny School District, offering students the same schedules cannot be changed. prices prior to the scheduled date.
strong foundation in preparation for high school. Many non- CMS............................. October 5
academic features are also similar. Student Councils in all Mark Your Calendars Now: IMS............................... September 25
three schools participate in school-wide fundraisers. Money Sixth Grade Team Coffee Dates
raised from fundraisers pays for many student activities, MMS............................ October 19*
assemblies, and special events. Parents/guardians of sixth graders are invited to attend *The date for MMS picture day has changed from September 28, which is what was
a coffee during the first few weeks of school to meet the listed in the calendar, to October 19.
All three schools host an annual Mini-Course Day. Teachers, teachers on their child’s team. At the event, the teachers on
with the help of parent/guardian volunteers, introduce each team will review homework policies and procedures, CHIP Insurance
students to a variety of experiences outside the general curriculum, communication issues, and a variety of other
curriculum. The courses vary according to student interest. topics. School Counselors and administrators will also be Pennsylvania’s Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP)
In the past, they have ranged from drama, storytelling, and on hand. has expanded to cover all uninsured kids and teens in
artistic creations to fantasy football, gardening, martial arts, Pennsylvania. Now, no family makes too much money to
remote control car racing, and roller skating, to name only The schedule for this year’s sixth grade team coffees is qualify for CHIP.
a few. as follows:
If you need health insurance, it’s worth looking into CHIP.
All three middle schools feature winter and spring concerts, Carson Middle School
In fact, your kids may be able to continue visiting the
awards assemblies for academics and sports, athletic • All Teams - Wednesday, August 29, 7:30 a.m. same doctors! Coverage is available for doctors visits,
events, school dances, an annual talent show, and a musical immunizations, emergency care, prescriptions, dental, and
production. Ingomar Middle School
eye care.
• All Teams - Wednesday, August 29, 7:30 a.m.
Seventh and Eighth Graders For more information, visit www.CHIPcoversPAkids.com or
Marshall Middle School
Seventh grade students are still assigned to teams. Eighth call 1-800-986-KIDS.
grade students experience a departmentalized structure as • All Teams - Wednesday, August 29, 7:30 a.m
they prepare for their transition to high school.
Open House at the Middle Schools FERPA
There are changes in the curriculum in seventh and eighth Every parent/guardian has rights guaranteed by the Family
grade. Seventh graders have only one semester of unified Each of the three middle schools will host an Open House on
Thursday, September 13 at 6:30 p.m. During this important Educational Rights and Privacy Act, (FERPA) relative to the
arts, giving them the opportunity to explore two languages review and correction of his/her child’s educational records.
evening, parents/guardians will experience middle school
during the other semester. Eighth graders choose the first In addition, a child’s records cannot be released without
firsthand by following a condensed version of their child’s
year of a world language (Latin, German, Spanish, or French)
daily schedule. It is important for parents/guardians to arrive written parental/guardian consent, except for directory
to study for the entire school year.
early to be in their child’s homeroom by 6:30 p.m. in order to information and to agencies or in incidents specified
Seventh and eighth grade students have additional follow their child’s entire schedule. by policy. Directory information is defined by FERPA as
extracurricular opportunities. Interscholastic sports are also Teachers will review their routines and expectations, course name, address, telephone number, date and place of birth,
available to seventh and eighth grade students. objectives and requirements, and homework procedures and field of study, honors won, offices held, recognition for
policies at Open House. achievements, post-high school endeavors, recognition of
Middle School Schedules graduating seniors, participation in officially recognized
In addition, teachers will preview important electronic learning
Schedules for middle school students are released at a resources that will be used throughout the school year. activities and sports, weight and height (for athletic teams),
later date than schedules for students at the intermediate dates of attendance, enrollment status, degrees, awards
and senior high level due to the nature of middle school Open House is an excellent opportunity for parents/guardians received, and the last educational agency or institution
scheduling. North Allegheny utilizes a teaming approach to to establish positive communication with their child’s attended by the student. A parent/guardian who does not
scheduling at the middle school level. Using this approach teachers. This evening is designed for parents/guardians only.
Please do not bring your children. Further information will be want directory information released about his/her child
has many benefits for students. However, a schedule change
sent home with the students after school begins. must provide notice in writing. For more details, contact the
for a single student may result in the need to change the
schedules of many other students. Because of this, middle Student Services Department at (412) 635-4110.
school student schedules will be activated in the Tyler
TRANSITIONS | 7
Attendance and Concerns
Middle School Attendance To enter class, a tardy student must stop in the office to Who to Call
receive a late slip and must submit a signed tardy note from
Regular and punctual attendance at school is important the parent/guardian at that time. Parents/guardians often wonder whom to call when they
to a successful school career. Absences fall into one of two have particular concerns. As a general rule, it is best to seek a
categories: LEGAL and ILLEGAL. Working together to help our students attend school solution at the building level with the individual(s) closest to
regularly and on time will lead to a successful school year! the origin of the concern. Here are some frequently occurring
Legal absences include:
examples:
1. Student illness What is Perfect Attendance?
2. Death of an immediate family member
To qualify for perfect attendance, a middle school student
Concern... Person to Call...
3. Absences approved by the administration, including
approved Family Educational Trips must have no legal or illegal absences during the entire year. Grade Teacher who issued grade
4. Religious holidays or instruction The following guidelines also apply:
5. Urgent reasons deemed acceptable by Detention Teacher who issued
the administration • Four excused tardies or four excused early dismissals or
detention (Asst. Principal if
a combination of the two are permitted, not to exceed a concern remains)
Illegal absences include: total of four.
Placement School Counseling Office at
1. Truancy • All-day school-related activities (out of the building) the beginning of the year;
2. Absence due to parental/guardian neglect are always recorded as days attended in the student’s teacher/School Counselor at
3. Illegal employment mid-year
records. They do not count as absences.
4. Family Educational Trips not approved by
the administration Peer Problems School Counselor
• All-day absences (not school-related) disqualify students Asst. Principal/Principal
In order to request approval for a Family Educational Trip, for perfect attendance recognition.
New Student School Counseling Office
parents/guardians must submit a written request for excusal • Even though excused, religious holidays and religious
at least five (5) school days prior to the absence and the retreats with educational components must, by state
absence must be for 10 or less school days. Students who will At-Risk Student School Counselor/Principal/
law, be counted as absences. At North Allegheny, these Student Assistance Team
be participating in an extended absence due to a request
for an educational tour or trip for more than 10 days will absences will not disqualify a student from perfect Homework Teacher/School Counselor
be withdrawn after the tenth consecutive day (on day 11) attendance.
and the withdrawal date will be dated the first day of the • Other exceptions such as family funerals, court Homework Requests (illness) Refer to Blackboard
consecutive absence. subpoena, or extraordinary circumstances will
Students with legal absences may have the opportunity to be handled on a case-by-case basis by building Bus Discipline Bus Monitor/Asst. Principal/
complete any missed assignments upon returning to school. administrators. Principal
Students with illegal absences are not permitted to make- General Transportation School Counseling Office/
up work. Our responsibility is to promote consistent school Transportation Department
attendance and address the underlying risk factors that may
lead to truancy. As a requirement of Act 138, students who Teacher Complaint Teacher first, then Principal
accrue three (3) illegal absences will be asked to participate
in the creation of a School Attendance Improvement Plan Medical Nurse
(SAIP). Students who accrue six (6) illegal absences will be
referred to a school-based or community-based attendance Tutoring/Homebound School Counseling Office
improvement program or to the local children and youth Instruction
agency. In addition, the District may file a citation for truancy Vacation/Education Trip Secretary
with the local District Magistrate. Requests
There are three reasons recognized as valid excuses for Program/Curriculum Teacher/School Counselor/
tardiness: Principal
1. Severe weather conditions Extracurricular Activities Sponsor/Coach/Asst.
2. Bus transportation difficulties Principal/Principal/Athletics
3. Personal accident or illness Director, as necessary
TRANSITIONS | 8
Don’t Forget...
Middle School Guidelines for Dress:
Personal Conduct and Appearance
Students shall dress appropriately and their clothing or personal hygiene should not cause a health or safety hazard or
disrupt the educational process. Age appropriate guidelines are published in respective building Student Handbooks. The
establishment of these guidelines is supported by North Allegheny School Board Policy No. 220.
GUIDELINES: Standards for Dress (please review in the Student/Parent Handbook)
1. Students are expected to wear neat, clean, appropriate 8. Tops need to be tucked into or overlap bottom
clothing that does not interfere with the purpose of garments. Clothing should cover the back, chest, midriff,
school-learning. buttocks, and undergarments.
2. Heads should not be covered at any time; however, 9. Chains that could present a danger are not permitted on
religious headwear is permitted. clothes or accessories.
3. Footwear must be worn at all times. Flip-flops, sandals, 10. Dress citations will be issued as a written warning to
and slippers are not recommended due to potential students violating dress guidelines. A student may
safety hazards. be asked to change his or her clothes to adhere to
the above dress guidelines. Progressive discipline will
4. Clothing may not interfere with the educational process be assigned when a student receives a second dress
or rights of others and should not depict, advertise, or citation.
encourage indecent content or the use of any illegal
substances. Clothing that includes derogatory slurs or 11. The school administration reserves the right to make
implies hatred or prejudice toward any race, gender, final decisions regarding the appropriateness or safety
social group, or religion may not be worn. of any dress disruptive to the educational process.
5. Sleepwear is not permitted.
6. All clothing must cover the buttocks when standing or
sitting with fingertips as a guideline for shorts.
7. See-through garments, mesh shirts, and muscle shirts
worn alone are prohibited.
Middle School Students Have Access to Free and Other Library Resources Online
Reliable Resources at Home
Check out the Library webpages for even more resources! Type keywords into the main search bar and click enter. From
Remember the days when parents/guardians would debate the tabs above the returned results, select Websites. The
the purchase of an expensive set of encyclopedias, knowing To visit your individual building library website, click here. resulting list features a site summary, age recommendations,
that the information would soon be out of date? North Click on your school’s library link. From here you can access the and other information. In order to access these websites,
Allegheny middle school students and parents/guardians can school library’s online card catalog, Destiny. Each student has students must be logged into Destiny.
access the same quality library resources at home from a Destiny account, which is the same username and password
the Internet. used to log on to any networked computer in the District.
To visit the Library webpage, click here and scroll down Not only can students search for resources from home, but
below the ”Quick Links” to find all the home links. Usernames educationally accurate website links have been embedded
and passwords to access these resources are required, and into the catalogs.
both are available from the school librarians.
TRANSITIONS | 9
It Takes Someone Like You to Volunteer
Parent Groups are Essential for Home-School Volunteers are Needed
Communication
We Need You!
There are many opportunities for parents/guardians to be
Parents/guardians who have been active in the PFA at an actively involved as volunteers at the middle schools. One
elementary school are often on the lookout for similar avenue for involvement is attending Parent Coffees (see
left). Parents/guardians are also needed for dozens of other
organizations when their children move to middle school.
Attending Middle School Parent Coffees may be the answer activities, from library volunteer work to Tiger Shop, Mini- Our children benefit greatly
for these parents/guardians. Course Day, Career Day, school picture day, field trips, and
yearbook.
from the contributions
Parent Coffees are held at all secondary schools. Parent
Coffees are held for parents/guardians who want to meet Each middle school invites parents/guardians to sign up to
of our volunteers.
regularly with building principals to share ideas and volunteer through both virtual and in-person sign-up events
information. Topics of interest to parents/guardians are during the first weeks of school. Parents/guardians will have
presented and discussed, including curriculum, testing,
homework, discipline, extracurricular activities, and
the opportunity to sign up for the activities of their choice.
Keep an eye out for the dates below if you’re interested in
signing up to volunteer in the middle schools!
Get Cleared
technology. School news and upcoming events are reported.
Parents/guardians are also updated on District-wide news by • Carson Middle School will host a virtual volunteer sign-
representatives of committees such as the Unified Boosters
and the Superintendent/Parents Liaison Committee (SPLC).
School Counselors sometimes report on special topics such
up via an e-blast in late September.
• Ingomar Middle School will host a volunteer round-up
Volunteer
as scheduling and Student Council representatives are often on September 10, 2018 at 9:30 a.m.
present to update parents/guardians on their activities. • Marshall Middle School will host a virtual volunteer sign-
Parents/guardians have an opportunity to raise questions up via an e-blast in late September and information will
and concerns. be posted on the MMS website.
Parent Coffees are open to all parents/guardians. Please take Parents/guardians who wish to volunteer must have a
advantage of this excellent opportunity to enhance home- Pennsylvania State Police Clearance and Pennsylvania Child
school communication at the secondary level. The Parent Abuse History Clearance. Parents/guardians who have not
Coffee meeting schedule for the 2018–2019 school year at the lived in Pennsylvania for the past 10 years are required to
middle schools is as follows: have an FBI Clearance in addition to the two Pennsylvania
Carson Middle School Ingomar Middle School Clearances. Clearances are good for five years from the date
of issuance. More information on volunteer clearances can be
October 17, 6:00 p.m. October 25, 6:00 p.m. found by clicking here.
January 17, 9:30 a.m. January 18, 9:30 a.m.
February 19, 7:00 p.m. (at IMS)** February 19, 7:00 p.m. ** The success of our schools will continue to be directly linked
April 12, 9:30 a.m. May 10, 9:30 a.m.
to the participation of parents/guardians in their children’s
Marshall Middle School
education. Please contact your child’s school principal for
further details regarding each school’s volunteer program.
Parents/guardians and
October 11, 6:00 p.m. community members are
January 10, 9:30 a.m.
February 19, 7:00 p.m. (at IMS)**
required by law to have
April 12, 9:30 a.m. clearances to volunteer in
**There will be a combined Parent Coffee meeting of all three schools.
middle schools at IMS on February 19 starting at 7 p.m.
For more information:
www.northallegheny.org
TRANSITIONS | 10From the Desk of the School Nurse
Medications at School Student Health Information Too Sick for School
If a licensed prescriber deems it medically necessary for The Tyler Parent Portal includes your child’s health Schools provide an environment where the transmission
your child to take medication during the day, the following information. On the right hand column, you have an option of illness from one child to another can occur rather easily.
procedures must be completed: titled “Health”. As with your child’s academic information, Being sick at school puts your child at greater risk for
this is available only for your review through your secure prolonged illness, but it also puts the children around him/
1. Written authorization from the licensed prescriber must
Tyler username and password. Here you can view your child’s her at greater risk. Please consider these general guidelines
accompany all medications. That written authorization
screening results, immunization records, and any medication when making the decision whether or not to send your child
may come in the form of:
that was prescribed for your child during the school year. If to school:
• A completed North Allegheny School District Request you have any specific questions, please email your child’s
for Medication Administration in School Form #210, or school nurse. • Fever of 100 degrees or higher - children should
• Written instructions/orders on the licensed be fever free without the aid of fever reducing
prescriber’s letterhead or prescription pad. Physical Exams for 6th Grade Students medication for 24 hours before returning to school.
2. Parent(s)/guardian(s) must complete the demographic • Acute cold or persistent cough.
The Pennsylvania School Health Law requires that all
and parent/guardian signature sections of the Request students receive a physical examination on entrance to • Nausea/vomiting/diarrhea - children should be free
for Administration of Medication in School Form #210. school for 6th grade. This exam can be dated anytime during from vomiting for 24 hours before returning to school.
To print the medication form at home, click here. the 12 months prior to the start of the mandated exam school Help us make sure that your children are ready and able to
3. The initial dose of medication must be provided prior to year. Therefore, since your child will be starting school on learn. For further information, please check out the Health
request of administration at school. August 23, 2018, the physical exam can be dated anytime Services Webpage - Too Sick for School?
4. All medication is to be in its original labeled container. from August 23, 2017. The best interests of your child are
served by having a continuous relationship with a Primary
5. When someone other than the parent(s)/guardian(s) Care Provider. A copy of a camp physical or athletic physical Immunization Requirements - Just a Reminder
delivers medication to school: form will suffice in lieu of the NA physical form.
• Container is to be placed in a sealed envelope. All student (grades K-12) must have completed
If you are unable to pay for an examination by your primary immunizations before the first day of school.
• Medication is to be delivered to the health office upon Documentation must be provided from your Primary Care
care provider please notify your child’s school nurse. Your
student’s arrival at school. Physician verifying that these requirements have been
child can then be scheduled for a physical exam by the School
• The parent/guardian assumes all responsibility for Physician or Certified Registered Nurse Practitioner. met.
medications sent to school.
** 7th Grade Students are required to have a tetanus/
6. Acceptable amounts of medication to be stored at school: Dental Exams for 7th Grade Students diphtheria/pertussis (Tdap) and a meningococcal vaccine
• One-week supply for acute (short-term) illness. (MCV4) by the first day of your child’s 7th grade school
The Pennsylvania School Health Law requires that all
• Thirty-day supply for chronic (long-term) conditions. year.
students receive a dental examination on entrance to school
7. Changes in medication must be accompanied by a for 7th grade. This exam can be dated anytime during the 12 If these requirements are not met prior to the 2018-19
licensed prescriber’s written statement. A faxed written months prior to the start of the mandated exam school year. school year, your child will not be permitted to start classes
statement with a licensed prescriber’s signature will be Therefore, since your child will be starting school on August on August 23, 2018.
accepted. 23, 2018, the dental exam can be dated anytime from August
**Families receive notification by mail if immunizations are
8. In addition, for students who carry and self-administer 23, 2017.
not up to date. To review the requirements, go to the North
emergency medications (i.e. rescue inhaler, Injectable If you are unable to pay for an examination by your dentist, Allegheny School District webpage here.
Epinephrine), an order is required from a licensed please notify your child’s school nurse. Your child can then be
prescriber indicating that it is necessary for the **Medical exemption – when the physical condition of the child is
scheduled for a dental exam by the School Dentist. such that immunization would endanger life or health. (Requires
student to carry the medication and that the student is
physician’s signature)
competent of self-administration. For students in grades
**Religious exemption – when the parent(s)/guardian(s) adheres to a
6 through 12, in lieu of a licensed prescriber statement,
religious belief whose teachings are opposed to such immunization .
the nurse may make a determination that the student is (Requires parents/guardians signature)
competent of self administration (Form #210).
TRANSITIONS | 11From the Desk of the School Nurse
Headline
Ticks The simplest way to protect your child is to remove a tick
before it has a chance to transmit disease-causing pathogens.
Over the last five years, Pennsylvania ranked first for the most
There are several tick removal devices on the market, but a
reported cases in the U.S. for Lyme Disease. Lyme Disease
plain set of fine-tipped tweezers works very well.
is a bacterial infection transmitted to humans primarily
through the bites of infected deer ticks. Many people are not How to remove a tick:
aware when they’ve been bitten by a tick and may not make
1. Use fine-tipped tweezers to grasp the tick as close to the
a connection when they begin to experience symptoms.
skin’s surface as possible.
Symptoms include fever, headache, general achiness, swollen
glands, fatigue, and a possible bullseye rash, and symptoms 2. Pull upward with steady, even pressure. Don’t twist or
may not appear for weeks, months, or even years after a tick jerk the tick as this can cause the mouth-parts to break
bite. Children and youth are the most susceptible to Lyme off and remain in the skin. If this happens, remove the
Disease, and initial symptoms may go unrecognized and mouth-parts with tweezers.
be considered normal childhood illnesses. By the time it is 3. After removing the tick, thoroughly clean the bite area
clear there is something wrong, the symptoms are often and your hands with rubbing alcohol or soap and
neurocognitive, usually showing up with behavior changes, water.
changes in performance at school, and psychiatric issues. 4. Never crush a tick with your fingers. Dispose of a live
Prevention is key to avoiding a tick bite. Here are a few tips tick by putting it in alcohol, placing it in a sealed bag/
you can follow. container, wrapping it tightly in tape, or flushing it
down the toilet.
• Avoid exposure in wooded, overgrown areas, and stay For further information, please go to PA Lyme Resource
on marked trails when hiking. Network or the Centers for Disease Control.
• Avoid going into the tall grass and brush if you can.
• Sports and athletic fields with well-groomed grass
are safer.
• Wear protective clothing such as long sleeves, long
pants tucked into socks, and closed-toe shoes.
• Use insect repellent such as DEET on the body of
Permethrin on clothes. Be sure to review safety
information and assess the risks/benefits of these
products, as many doctors consider them unsafe for
children under the age of three. Consult your doctor if
you’re hesitant of the products.
• Perform tick checks as soon as you come in from
outside. Important areas to check for ticks include
behind the knees, under the armpits, in the scalp,
along the waistline, and the back.
• Shower daily.
TRANSITIONS | 12The School Lunch Program
Nutritious meals that emphasize quality and variety are All students have the option of paying by cash or with their PaySchools Central is a secure, online payment option for
available to students at every school within the District. PIN number. the convenient and secure management of a student’s lunch
Printable versions of monthly menus for the secondary account. This resource makes it easy to apply funds to a child’s
Payments to establish student accounts may be made at the
program are posted on the District website. The daily middle account and to check an account balance. PaySchools Central
point of sale, with his/her PIN number clearly indicated on the
school lunch features are posted on the District and school accepts credit card and checking account prepayments 24
check. Pre-printed envelopes for this purpose are available
homepages of the website. Parents/guardians may request a hours a day with an automated update to the POS system at
in each school cafeteria. Checks should be made payable to
printed copy in the main office of their home school. Students the school. It allows parents/guardians to fund their child’s
“NASD Cafeteria Fund”. Questions regarding account balances
may make cafeteria purchases by utilizing the Point of Sale account from the comfort of their home or office, night or day.
or requests for patron participation reports may be directed
(POS) computerized debit system, which requires them to Registration, credit card information, and checking account
to the Food Service Office at 724-934-7201. The District has
provide their Personal Identification Number (PIN). information is protected on PaySchools Central with the most
implemented an online payment system for school lunches.
advanced Internet security. For more information, visit www.
Each student is assigned a six-digit PIN upon his/her More information can be found at www.payschoolscentral.
payschoolscentral.com.
enrollment. The PIN number is used for two purposes. The first com.
purpose is to verify student identity and reference important
student information like food allergies, dietary restrictions,
and limitations on purchases established by parents/
guardians. The second purpose is to subtract monies from
student accounts to eliminate the need for students to pay
with cash.
Monday Middle SchoolTuesday
Menu for First Weeks of School
Wednesday Thursday Friday
September 5 September 6 September 7 August 23 September 24
NO SCHOOL Asian
Middle School Chicken Noodle
Student Price Bowl
List (A
forLa2018-2019:
Carte BBQ Chicken Nachos: Tortilla Chips Chicken Fries w/ Dinner Rolls Chicken Mashed Potato Bowl w/ Dinner
(Labor Day) Chicken Egg Roll $1) Topped w/ BBQ Chicken, Cheese Sauce, -OR- Rolls
-OR-
Breakfast................................................. Lettuce & Salsa
$1.25 Baked Meatball Hoagie -OR-
Hot Ham & Cheese on Pretzel Bun -OR- Rodeo Burger
Angry Bird Buffalo Chicken Sandwich w/
Lunch...................................................... $2.85 Featured Vegetable: Oven Fries/Green
Featured Vegetable: Steamed Broccoli Pepper Jack Cheese Beans Featured Vegetable: Baked Beans
Premium Meal........................................... $3.85
Featured Vegetable: Black Bean Corn Salsa
Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday
August 27 August 28 August 29 August 30 August 31
Cheese Ravioli w/ Breadstick General Tso Chicken w/ Brown Rice (A La Walking Taco: Tortilla Chips Topped with Popcorn Chicken w/ Dinner Rolls Chicken Mashed Potato Bowl
-OR- Carte Chicken Egg Roll) Taco Beef, Shredded Cheese, Lettuce, -OR- w/ Dinner Rolls
Italian Hoagie -OR- and Salsa Steak and Cheese Hoagie -OR-
Mozzarella Stuffed Pizza Sticks w/ Pizza -OR- w/ Peppers and Onions Double Dogs
Featured Vegetable: Garden Salad/ Dipping Sauce Mozzarella Stuffed Pizza Sticks w/ Pizza
Carrot Coins Dipping Sauce Featured Vegetable: Oven Fries Featured Vegetable: Baked Beans
Featured Vegetable: Golden Corn /Green Beans
Featured Vegetable: Golden Corn
TRANSITIONS | 13District News & Notes
Student Data Portal Code of Conduct/Student Handbooks Online Don’t Miss School Emergency, Delay,
The District utilizes Tyler SIS as the Student Information The 2018–2019 Code of Conduct is available for review on Cancellation, or Crisis Information
System. All parents/guardians with Internet access the District website and is also included in the District
SchoolMessenger will continue to be the District’s primary
have the ability to create an account to view important Activities Calendar. The Code of Conduct includes important
communication vehicle for sharing emergency and crisis
information, including grades for their children. For information on the District’s Anti-Bullying Policy (#249),
information with parents/guardians and staff. All families
additional information, please visit the Student Data Portal Responsible Computer, Telecommunications, and
are strongly encouraged to have a personal account with
Instructions on the North Allegheny School District website. Information Technology Use Policy (#224.1), Controlled
up-to-date information in SchoolMessenger to ensure
Substance and Paraphernalia Policy (#227), Weapons Policy
that they receive critical messages during times when
Participation Fees (#218.1), and more. Building principals will review this
communication really matters.
information with each student at the beginning of the school
Participation fees will remain in effect in 2018–2019 for many year. A Student and Parent/Guardian Sign-Off Sheet has also
extracurricular activities, such as interscholastic athletics, Please take a moment and log into the SchoolMessenger
been developed for use at all grade levels. website at https://go.schoolmessenger.com to ensure all
Marching Band, intramurals, and various select ensembles
and clubs. The implementation of a participation fee for of your information is accurate. SchoolMessenger accounts
extracurricular activities is necessary to offset costs and help Audio and/or Video Recording on District Buses are private and must be maintained by parents/guardians.
continue the depth and breadth of such programs. There are North Allegheny School District is permitted by law to equip This information is held separate from the information
three participation fee categories: school buses and vehicles with audio and/or video recording in the Tyler Student Data Portal. For information about
• Interscholastic Athletics – $75 per season per athlete with a equipment. NA School Board Policy #810.2 authorizes use of how to access or set up your personal SchoolMessenger
student and/or family cap of $225 such equipment for school discipline and security purposes. account, please refer to the NASD website.
• Marching Band – $50 per season per Marching Band Each school year, the Superintendent or designee shall notify Note: SchoolMessenger offers the option of notification by
participant with a family cap of $150 students and their parents/guardians of this policy by mail phone, email, text, or any combination of all three. It is wise
• Other – $25 per activity per participant with a student and/ to the students’ home addresses. Notice that students may to take advantage of all possible communication options so
or family cap of $75 (e.g., intramurals, club sports, select you have the best chance to receive key information when an
be audio/video recorded must be posted in a clearly visible emergency arises.
ensembles, and select competition groups)
manner on each school bus or school vehicle that is furnished
Therefore, the maximum amount that any family will pay with audio/video recording equipment. For emergencies and crisis situations, SchoolMessenger is only
is $450, or the sum of the family caps in each category utilized for in-the-moment communications such as a lockdown
($225 + $150 + $75 = $450). A provision for economically Student Registration or evacuation. If there is important information that must be
disadvantaged students is included in this plan. There relayed to parents/guardians but does not require a lockdown
are more details, including a Frequently Asked Questions All new student registrations are processed at the Central or evacuation, communication will be shared via email.
document, available by clicking here. Administrative Offices. Parents/guardians must complete the
When a student becomes a member of a team or a group, online registration located on the North Allegheny website While the District works as fast as possible to gather and
one of these two letters will be distributed by the coach or under the New Student Registration link on the homepage disseminate communications regarding emergencies and
sponsor: and then schedule an appointment online. Once scheduled crisis information, word-of-mouth and text messages travel
• Participation Fee Parent Letter – Athletics for an appointment, parents/guardians will be able to finalize much faster. Please know that while we are working diligently
the registration and present necessary documentations for to get families the latest up-to-the-minute information about
• Participation Fee Parent Letter and Form – Non-Athletics emergencies and crisis information, it is often difficult to beat
registrations.
the speed of those who are experiencing the situation and
SchoolSite Locator Parents/guardians with questions related to the online
sharing information firsthand.
registration can call 412-369-5434. If the child has attended
SchoolSite Locator is a tool that can be used to determine another school district previously, it will be the responsibility
what school a child would attend if a family resides at a of NASD to request a transfer of records once the parent(s)/
given address. It allows a user to view District and school guardian(s) signs a release form. To verify which school
boundaries, obtain driving directions, and more. Users may a child will be attending, parents/guardians may refer to
access the SchoolSite Locator by clicking the icon on the SchoolSite Locator.
District homepage. There is also a how-to-guide about the
basics of this user-friendly resource on the NASD website.
TRANSITIONS | 14District News & Notes
Important Student Information Will be Delivered The McKinney-Vento Act defines homeless children Student Records are Confidential
Electronically in 2018–2019 as “individuals who lack a fixed, regular, and adequate
NASD protects the confidentiality of personally identifiable
nighttime residence.” The act provides examples of children
The North Allegheny School District is committed to information for all students in accordance with state and
who would fall under this definition:
providing as much information as possible to parents/ federal law and the District’s student records policy.
• Children and youth sharing housing due to loss of
guardians via digital communications using email and housing, economic hardship, or a similar reason. Your child’s records cannot be released without your written
website resources. The District requires an accurate email • Children and youth living in motels, hotels, trailer consent except for directory information and incidents
address on file for parents/guardians as a part of each parks, or campgrounds due to lack of alternative specified in the policy. Directory information may consist of
student’s record to ensure that information sent via email accommodations. name, address, telephone number, date and place of birth,
is received. Update your email and phone information by • Children and youth living in emergency or transitional major field of study, honors won and offices held, recognition
contacting the main office of your student’s school. Note: If shelters. for achievements, post-high school endeavors, recognition
you logged into the Student Data Portal during the previous • Children and youth abandoned in hospitals. of graduating seniors, participation in officially recognized
school year and your email address has not changed since • Children and youth whose primary nighttime activities and sports, weight and height (for members of
that time, you do have a valid email address in the District residence is not ordinarily used as a regular sleeping athletic teams), dates of attendance, enrollment status,
system. accommodation (e.g. park benches, etc.)
degrees and awards received, and the last educational
• Children and youth living in cars, parks, public spaces, agency or institution attended by the student. If you do not
Superintendent’s Coffees abandoned buildings, substandard housing, bus, or train
stations. want directory information about your child transferred,
The Superintendent of Schools will be hosting a series you may prevent release by contacting the District in writing
• Migratory children and youth living in any of the above
of Coffees in various schools around the District in the within 30 days from receipt of this notice. Please address such
situations.
2018–2019 school year. Parents/guardians and any interested requests to the building principal.
community member may attend a coffee at any location. All If you or someone you know is in a situation meeting these
events begin at 9:30 a.m. Dates and locations are as follows: definitions, please contact the NA Homeless Liaison (Dr.
James Bradley, Assistant Superintendent of Elementary Notification of Pesticide Use
• September 5, CAO Bd. Rm (Newcomer’s Coffee)
Education, at 412-369-5896 or jbradley@northallegheny. The Commonwealth of Pennsylvania has very clear guidelines
• September 25, MES • December 11, HES
org) so that the District can assist and provide resources to in place defining the notification process and the use of
• October 23, CMS • February 12, MCK
impacted individual(s). pesticides. North Allegheny is in strict compliance with
the law on this matter. The District’s Facilities Department
Approved Wipes/Sanitizers/Cleansers For Student Photos / Interviews / Reproductions of routinely references the Pesticide Hypersensitivity Registry,
Classroom Use Original Work published by the PA Department of Agriculture, which lists
The District has created a list of disinfecting wipes, hand School Board Policy #902.1 allows the District to photograph individuals throughout the state who have a known problem
sanitizers, and general cleaners that have been approved or videotape students and their work for use in District with various pesticides or herbicides.
for use in classrooms. This list is available on the District publications, including but not limited to newspapers, If you or your child are highly sensitive to pesticides and
website. Having this information is important, particularly newsletters, marketing materials, and the NASD website. would like a personal notification prior to the use of
with regard to supporting students who have allergies, When District representatives themselves have advance pesticides in any NA building, please notify the building
breathing conditions, etc. Parents/guardians are asked to notice, the District makes every effort to notify parents/ principal with the details. This information is considered
refer to these lists before sending items for classroom use. guardians in advance when public media is going to be in a confidential and will be handled as such. All known concerns
This does not apply to products students bring for personal school or attending a school event. As a result of this policy, will be passed along to the Facilities Department and kept on
use. at the beginning of each school year or when a student record in that building.
enrolls in the District, building administrators will distribute
McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act the Photo/Video Release Letter to all NASD students. This If you would like to register with the Pesticide
letter will be available on the back of the Student/Parent Hypersensitivity Registry, you may contact the PA
The McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act provides
Handbook and Code of Conduct sign-off sheet. It states that, if Department of Agriculture, at 717-787-4843, ext. 2 for
guidelines for school districts to assist students and families
a family does not want images and/or recordings displayed information.
who find themselves in a situation where they are homeless.
The Act requires that students who qualify as homeless are or used in District publications, a written request should be
able to remain at their current school or enables them to sent to the office of the child’s school by the second week of
immediately register to attend school. school each school year, along with a current photo of the
student.
TRANSITIONS | 15You can also read
