Welcome to Hillcrest Intermediate School!
←
→
Page content transcription
If your browser does not render page correctly, please read the page content below
Welcome to Hillcrest Intermediate School! Hillcrest Intermediate School is comprised of 5th and 6th grade students in the Norwin School District
Hillcrest Intermediate School
11091 Mockingbird Drive
North Huntingdon, PA 15642
724-861-3015
Introduction
Coming to a new school can be an exciting time for students. This
booklet is intended to help make the transition to a new school
easier and provide you with information about Hillcrest
Intermediate School.
About Hillcrest
Hillcrest Intermediate School serves 5th and 6th grade students in
the Norwin School District. Each year approximately 800 students
are enrolled at Hillcrest. There are 15 homerooms for each grade
level. Hillcrest and the Norwin School District operate on a 6 day
schedule.
Table of Contents
Bell schedule …………………………………..…1
Student supplies…………………………………..2
Classes………………………………………….....3
School staff……………………………………….4
Keys to the Castle………………………………...5
Character Education/ Goal Setting………………12
Guidance Services……………………………….13
e-NEST……………………………………….….14
Skyward Family Access…………………………15
Attendance policy…………………………….….16
Tips for success……………………………….…17
HILLCREST INTERMEDIATE SCHOOL
2013 – 2014 Bell Schedule
FACULTY ARRIVAL 7:35 a.m.
STUDENT WARNING BELL 7:50 a.m.
HOMEROOM – ANNOUNCEMENTS 8:00 a.m. to 8:05 a.m.
1 8:05 - 8:48 1 8:05 - 8:48 1 8:05 - 8:48
2 8:48 - 9:31 2 8:48 - 9:31 2 8:48 - 9:31
3 9:31 - 10:14 3 9:31 - 10:14 3 9:31 - 10:14
LUNCH
1 10:14 - 10:44 4 10:14 -10:57 4 10:14 -10:57
transition 10:44- 10:47 LUNCH
4 10:47 - 11:30 2 10:57 - 11:27 5 10:57 - 11:40
transition 11:27-11:30 LUNCH
5 11:30 - 12:13 5 11:30 - 12:13 3 11:40 - 12:10
transition 12:10-12:13
6 12:13 - 12:56 6 12:13 - 12:56 6 12:13 - 12:56
7 12:56 - 1:39 7 12:56 - 1:39 7 12:56 - 1:39
8 1:39 - 2:22 8 1:39 - 2:22 8 1:39 - 2:22
9 2:22 - 2:50 9 2:22 - 2:50 9 2:22 - 2:50
2:50 p.m. BUS DISMISSAL
3:10 p.m. CAR PICK UP AND WALKERS
3:35 p.m. FACULTY DISMISSAL
Page 1
Your
picture
here
Your name
here
Each student will have an ID card and agenda book at Hillcrest. Students
are responsible for bringing their ID card to lunch every day. ID cards
may also be used for visits to the nurses’ office and library. The agenda
book is used in the classroom to keep track of assignments, projects and
upcoming tests/quizzes.
Page 2
Each student will have 3 team teachers-
1 teacher for science and social studies/global studies
1 teacher for math
1 teacher for ELA
Classes
ELA
Math
Social Studies (5th)/ Global
Studies (6th)
Science
Special Classes
Library
Physical Education/ Health
Instructional Technology
Art
Music/ Band/ Orchestra
Activities
Art Club
Stage Crew
Recycling Club
Principal’s Council
STEM Girls
Office Helpers
Peer Tutors
W.I.R.C
Page 3
HILLCREST STAFF
MAIN OFFICE
PRINCIPAL- Mrs. Dvorchak
ASSISTANT PRINCIPAL- Mrs. Banasick
SECRETARIES- Mrs. Anderson and Mrs. Kerr
COUNSELORS- Mr. Conrad and Mrs. Dowling
NURSES- Mrs. Carson and Mrs. Rusinko
5th GRADE 6TH GRADE
Team 5A Team 6A
Mrs. D’Alesio (Math) Mrs. Dvorsky (Math)
Mrs. Kelly (ELA) Mrs. Stratigos (ELA)
Mr. Odorcich (Science/SS) Mr. Cuturilo (Science/GS)
Team 5B Team 6B
Mrs. Klimek (Math) Mrs. Kibel (Math)
Mrs. Ryan (ELA) Mrs. Ebbitt (ELA)
Mrs. Negro (Science/SS) Mr. Blankette (Science/GS)
Team 5C Team 6C
Mrs. Welty (Math) Ms. Evans (Math)
Mrs. Swick (ELA) Mr. Patrick (ELA)
Mr. Dirling (Science/SS) Mrs. Williams (Science/GS)
Team 5D Team 6D
Mrs. Guarascio (Math) Mrs. Duncan (Math)
Mrs. Hudson (ELA) Mrs. Janov (ELA)
Mrs. Champ (Science/SS) Mrs. Bloom (Science/GS)
Team 5E Team 6E
Mrs. Bechtold (Math) Mrs. Atwood (Math)
Mr. Swenson (ELA) Mrs. Morrow (ELA)
Mr. Baumgartner (Science/SS) Mrs. Kobus (Science/GS)
ART- Mrs. Teems and Ms. Brown
BAND- Mr. Lippmann
INSTRUCTIONAL TECHNOLOGY- Mr. Doerzbacher
LIBRARY- Mrs. Ballas
MUSIC- Mrs. Spiegel
ORCHESTRA- Mr. Morrison
PHYS. ED/HEALTH- Mrs. Stevens and Mr. Tennant
SUPPORT SERVICES- Mrs. Bradfield, Mrs. Carnes, Mrs. DiStefano, Mrs.
Essay, Mrs. Giran, Mrs. Kodrin and Mrs. McIntosh
Page 4
Keys to the Castle/PBIS
About PBIS
PBIS stands for Positive Behavior Interventions & Supports. It is a
program designed to teach respect, responsibility and safety at
school. At Hillcrest Intermediate School, we hope to encourage
students to continuously make good behavioral choices by
implementing this program.
PBIS provides teachers and other school staff with information to
help prevent behavioral problems and help make school a safe
learning environment. PBIS is a research-based program which
can result in:
Increased time for instruction
An increase in positive behaviors school-wide
A decrease in disruptive behavior
Page 5
How the Program Works
Thanks to a grant from the Pennsylvania Department of Education,
we are able to implement this program in our school. Posters that
highlight behavior expectations for all areas of the school from
classroom, cafeteria, hallway, bus and restroom, will remind
students of what is expected from them in each area.
All students and staff are taught the school-wide
expectations
Students will receive frequent reviews of the expectations
and be acknowledged when they demonstrate them. (via the
Noble Knights 200 Club)
Most of the contact that students have with adults in the
building is positive and prevents problem behavior from
occurring
Staff will use data to help identify students who need
additional support
Page 6
Cafeteria Expectations
Respect Yourself Respect Others Respect Property
•Voice #1 •Hands and feet to self •Area cleaned up before you
leave
•ID Ready •Use manners: chew with
mouth closed •Trash thrown away
•Voice #0 for dismissal
•Kind words: please, thank you “Leave it better than you found
it.”
•Sit in correct spot
•Wait your turn in line
There are 3 different lunch periods at Hillcrest. Each day students
can choose from 2 menu items, as well as pizza, hamburgers,
chicken sandwiches, salads and more. Students can earn the
privilege of sitting with their friends at lunch. Lunch tables that
demonstrate excellent behavior can earn a day in the “Knights’
Knook”. In the “Knights’ Knook” students are able to listen to
music and play games.
Page 7
Bus Expectations
Respect Yourself Respect Others Respect Property
Voice #1 Hands and feet to Bus is trash and
self graffiti free
Kind words
Kind words: please, Backpacks stay
Sit facing forward, thank you, excuse closed
feet on floor me
Keep belongings to
Hands to self Allow bus driver to yourself
Stay seated focus on driving
Grades 5 through 8 ride the same buses
Hillcrest students sit in the FRONT of bus
Middle School students sit in the BACK of the bus
Bus drivers may assign seats
Buses arrive at Hillcrest beginning at 7:30 a.m.
Buses depart Hillcrest beginning at 2:53 p.m.
Families can contact First Student at 724-863-2262
Page 8Hallway Expectations
Respect Yourself Respect Others Respect Property
• Voice #0 •Hands and feet to self •Hallways are trash and
graffiti free
•Look where you are •Walk to the right
going •Work displayed on
•Single file line
walls is untouched
•Take stairs one step at a
•Use kind words: excuse
time •Only open your own
me
locker
•Stay to the right
•Allow others to pass
The picture above shows a 6th grade
hallway. In 6th grade, lockers are
located in the hallway. However, in
5th grade the lockers are in the
classroom. A 5th grade hallway is
pictured to the right.
Page 9Classroom Expectations
Respect Yourself Respect Others Respect Property
•Voice #0,1 •Take care of your own •Care for your own and
property other’s property
•Bring a positive “I can”
attitude •Use kind words: please, •Leave other’s property
thank you excuse me untouched
•Bring all materials
needed for class
The picture above shows a 5th grade
classroom. In 5th grade the lockers are located
in the classroom. Students also have a desk
with space for their books. The picture to the
right shows a 6th grade classroom.
Page 10Restroom Expectations
Respect Yourself Respect Others Respect Property
Voice #1 Clean up after Bathroom products
yourself used sparingly
Go, flush, wash,
return Respect privacy of Trash is thrown in
others can
Wash hands
thoroughly Kind words: please, Bathroom is graffiti
thank you, excuse and clutter free
Go right back to me “Leave it better than
class you found it”
Page 11Character Education and Goal Setting-
Hillcrest students choose goals based on a monthly Character Education trait
(respect, responsibility, courage, caring, fairness, honesty and perseverance).
Each student completes a Student Awareness Survey to help them identify their
areas of strengths and needs. Based on an area of need identified in the survey,
each student creates a monthly goal. During the month, students will evaluate
the progress they have made on their goal. Teachers, principals and counselors
will periodically meet with individual students to monitor their progress. We
encourage families to support their child(ren)'s goals.
SEPTEMBER- Respect: appreciate the unique qualities of yourself and
others and treat others and their belongings with consideration
OCTOBER- Responsibility: fulfill commitments and be accountable
NOVEMBER- Courage:
do what is right despite
internal or external
pressures
DECEMBER- Caring:
consider the perspectives of
others and demonstrate
empathy
JANUARY- Fairness:
contribute to the overall
good
FEBRUARY- Honesty:
tell the truth and show
integrity
MARCH- Perseverance:
continually strive toward a
purpose despite obstacles or
discouragement
Page 12Guidance Services
Guidance counselors are available for every student in the school to
assist with educational planning, interpretation of test scores, career
information and to offer support with home, school and/or social
concerns.
How to See Your Counselor
Mrs. Dowling and Mr. Conrad will periodically call students to the
counseling office to discuss their academic, social and personal goals.
The counselors are happy to see students throughout the day. However,
it is important that the student notifies their teacher prior to coming to the
guidance office. We encourage families to contact us if you would like
us to see your child for any reason.
Team Conferences
If you would like to discuss questions, concerns and/or share information
regarding your child, please contact the counseling office (724-861-
3015) to schedule a conference.
Requesting Homework- PICK UP BY 4:00
Contact the main office or guidance secretary at (724-861-3015 ext.
1508) by 10:00 a.m. The secretaries will forward your message to the
homeroom teacher. Sixth grade teachers will place a copy of the
assignments and worksheets in the homework bin by their room.
Families are responsible for getting their students’ books from their
lockers. Fifth grade parents may pick up books and assignments in the
main office after 3:10. Students may also use the buddy system.
Students should get the names and numbers of responsible peers to help
them collect their assignments.
2013-2014 Testing Information:
6th Grade Cognitive Abilities test……………October 2013
5th Grade Writing PSSA……………………..Spring 2014
5th and 6th grade Math/Reading PSSA……….Spring 2014
Page 13Hillcrest Intermediate School
Elementary-Norwin Educational Support Team (e-NEST)
What is the Elementary- Norwin Education Support Team (e-NEST)?
The Norwin School District e-NEST Program is a systematic approach to the identification of
students who may be at risk due to academic, social and/or emotional problems. e-NEST provides
intervention and, if appropriate, referral of these students to internal or external support services.
e-NEST is an intervention, as opposed to a treatment, designed to facilitate collaboration between
home and school in order to address student needs.
e-NEST is a caring group that strives to develop positive self-worth in Norwin students.
Who can refer students to e-NEST? ANYONE
Any person who is concerned about a student can contact any e-NEST member. Please return
completed e-NEST referrals to the Guidance office.
When to make an e-NEST referral?
When a student demonstrates a change in behavior, attitude and/or academic
performance.
When a student expresses hopelessness, helplessness, worthlessness and/or confusion.
When a student is experiencing a personal or family crisis and/or loss.
When a student withdraws socially from family, relatives, friends and/or teachers.
When there is suspicion of drug and/or alcohol abuse.
Who is involved in the Elementary Norwin Education Support Team (e-NEST?)
e-NEST at Hillcrest Intermediate is comprised of the following specially trained personnel:
Mrs. Rosemarie Dvorchak (Principal)
Mrs. Lisa Banasick (Assistant Principal)
Mr. Bob Conrad (School Counselor)
Mrs. Victoria Dowling (School Counselor)
Mrs. Denise Ebbitt (Teacher)
Mrs. Allison Bechtold (Teacher)
Mrs. Sue Teems (Teacher)
Mrs. Lauren Rusinko (School Nurse)
Mrs. Amy Kobus (Teacher)
Mr. Scott Patrick (Teacher)
Mrs. Mary Ann Stevens (Teacher)
Mrs. Pam Carnes (Teacher)
Mrs. Joan Saluga (Westmoreland County Mental Health Liaison)
CONFIDENTIALITY
An important aspect of the e-NEST process is confidentiality. The Norwin School District respects
and maintains confidentiality throughout the e-NEST process.
For further information about e-NEST contact: Hillcrest Intermediate School 724-861-3015, St.
Vincent College Prevention Projects Coordinator 724-537-4590, Westmoreland Case Management
& Supports, Inc. 724-837-1808
The Hillcrest e-NEST team was recognized as the Pennsylvania
Association of Student Assistance Professional’s (PASAP)
Distinguished SAP Team of 2012. This award is presented to a
Student Assistance team that has gone above and beyond to identify barriers to learning. A team that
supports research-based prevention programs, skilled identification, and also fosters positive
connections with students, parents, and the community. This is a statewide award and Hillcrest is the
first elementary level building to ever receive this award. Page 14Skyward Family Access
Family Access is a secure internet based website that will allow you to
easily view your child’s attendance, grades, schedule, food service balance,
progress, assignments, and emergency contact information. Family Access is a
free service and will be available to all parents with children enrolled in the
district. To use Family Access you must fill out and submit the registration
form on the Norwin web page to receive your login information. Additional
forms are also available in the Hillcrest Guidance Office.
Page 15Attendance Requirements Regular attendance in school is extremely important and should be reinforced early. Children achieve better and feel better about themselves when instruction is continuous and when a sense of belonging is established within the classroom. Those who learn the importance of regular attendance as young children tend to stay more actively involved and do better throughout their school years. Parents are urged to restrict travel which would result in missed class time. Every effort should be taken to schedule medical and dental appointments at times other than during school hours. Lack of continuity disrupts instruction for the individual and the class. Excuse of Absence: Students should bring a written excuse the day they return to school stating the specific reason for the absence. The school laws of Pennsylvania permit an excused absence for the following reasons: 1. Illness 2. Death in the immediate family 3. Quarantine 4. Impassable roads 5. Exceptionally urgent reasons 6. Approved religious holidays/events Upon the 7th day of absence, the building principal will send a letter to the student’s parent(s) or guardian(s) indicating that a physician’s excuse may be required if the absences continue. Upon the 10th day of absence, the building principal will send a letter to the student’s parent(s) or guardian(s) stating that all future absences will only be deemed legal when a doctor’s excuse is presented upon the student’s return. Failure or refusal to supply a valid excuse within three (3) days upon return to school will result in an unexcused absence. Other examples of an unexcused absence include: 1. Hunting, fishing, skiing 2. Oversleeping 3. Missing the school bus 4. Truancy 5. Illegal employment It is the duty of the principal to contact the Home and School Visitor who will file charges before a magistrate against any parent or guardian whose child has more than the equivalent of three illegal days of absence. Approved trips, absences accompanied by a doctor’s excuse, absences resulting from childhood diseases, and suspensions will not count toward the 7 day and 10 day notices. Tardiness: Any child who arrives after the scheduled beginning time for any session is required to present a note of explanation from a parent/guardian. Early Dismissal: If a child is to be dismissed early, a note must be sent with the child on the day he/she is to be excused (or the day prior to the early excusal, if possible). The note should include the date and time the child is to be excused and the reason for the excusal. Parent(s)/guardian(s) must pick up the student from the main office of the building. In case of an emergency, parent(s)/guardian(s) should phone the school office and provide the necessary information. This will allow time to verify the call with the information on the student’s registration card. Educational Vacations: Pupils may be excused from school attendance to participate in an educational trip and/or “Take Your Child to Work Day” provided that: • the school is notified in writing at least two (2) weeks prior to the trip; • the student is willing to make up missed work; • family educational trips over five (5) school days will not be approved; • family educational trips cannot exceed a total of five (5) school days during any given school year; • at the time of request, the attendance record of students who have accumulated ten (10) or more absences will be considered in the decision to approve the trip; • Educational trips will not be approved during standardized testing dates (e.g.; PSSA, ITBS, Cognitive Ability Test). NOTES: The student is responsible for securing and completing all assignments assigned during the period of absence. Students who do not attend school during the day cannot participate in after-school activities. Perfect attendance shall be defined as 180 full days of attendance. Any absence, late arrival or early dismissal will exclude a student from achieving perfect attendance. Outstanding attendance shall be defined as being absent no more than three (3) cumulative days for students in grades K-4 and no more than two (2) cumulative days for grades 5-6. Page 16
Tips for Success at Hillcrest
IIDEAS FOR SUCCESS:
1. Complete ALL assignments.
2. PARTICIPATE in class discussions
3. Prepare for class and tests DAILY.
4. Ask for HELP when you are confused.
ATTEND SCHOOL REGULARLY.
HAVING TROUBLE WITH A SUBJECT?
1. Don’t panic.
2. Use your agenda book daily to keep track of your assignments
and keep track of your grades in your binders.
3. Ask your TEACHER for help.
4. Discuss your concerns with your counselor.
5. Talk with your family.
6. Get involved in a school activity.
7. Listen and LEARN.
Mission Statement:
Through quality educational experiences, the Norwin School
District prepares students to become productive and responsible
citizens in an ever-changing global society.
Page 17You can also read
