August 2016

South Williamsport Area School DistrictAn Equal Opportunity Employer in Compliance with Title VI, Title IX, and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act.

School districts are required by statute to pass a balanced budget prior to July 1. District timelines for budget proposals begin six months before final adoption. The state has a constitutional mandate to provide funding for the public schools of the Commonwealth. For eight months, past July 1, the state legislature and Governor Wolf battled over school funding levels and increases in taxation. For eight months school district, social service agencies, and various departments of state, faced one financial crisis after another as they struggled to meet their financial responsibilities without state funding. Inexcusable. South was fortunate through the whole spectacle. The district was able to utilize local tax revenues, which are fully paid at the beginning of the year and the uncommitted fund balance, to meet payroll and routine expense. The district did not have to open a line of credit nor curtail programs while patiently waiting on the Governor and the legislators to pass a budget. In the last quarter of the fiscal year, a 2015-16 state budget finally became law without the Governor’s signature; a modest increase in funding, but eight months of political battles with no significant changes. The district’s 2016-17 budget includes revenues of $18,452,462 and expenditures of $18,799,282. It assumes no increases from the state in the Basic Education nor in the Special Education subsidies. The final budget adopted on June 27, as required by law, will not increase local taxes, but does project a deficit of $346,820. Any increase in state subsidy will reduce the projected deficit. After 2.3 mils of tax increases in five years, the community has generously supported its local schools. The administration continues to critically evaluate staffing levels and appropriations to ensure rigorous and relevant programs are available to all students. Through retirements, two additional professional staff positions were eliminated. Since 2010, the professional staff has been reduced from 103

to 93 teachers. At the same time, grade level teams, kindergarten through grade twelve, remain in place, and supplemental courses at the elementary and secondary level were adjusted to meet changing demands at the federal, state, and local level. Although organizationally very lean, we are operating efficiently and effectively. Additional staff reductions will negatively impact programs and opportunities for students. Past boards acted responsibly to build committed reserves anticipating the pension crisis that lie ahead. Financial projections will enable the district to strategically use these reserve funds through the end of debt obligations in 2021 to remain financially sound. The 2016-17 school year will also mark the end of the current three year strategic plan. As reviewed with the board on June 6, most benchmarks are complete. Working with key stakeholders, this year will be used for the creation of a new strategic plan predominantly focused on teaching and learning. Much of the framework is already in place. The leadership team maintains an active presence in classrooms, reviews current trends in educational research, and communicates with other professionals for college and career readiness. As with past strategic plans, future budgets will need to support the immediate needs and the long term growth goals for the district. Despite the financial challenges that persist, the district is positioned to continue moving the educational program forward. The leadership team and board will continue to work together to support the community and meet the educational needs of all children in a safe and supportive environment.

Mark Stamm, D.Ed.Superintendent of Schools

Educationally Focused In Spite of Financial ChallengesBOARD OF SCHOOL DIRECTORS

John Engel, Jr. President Region I

Christopher Branton Vice President

Region III

Gregory Anthony Treasurer Region II

Cathy Bachman Region III

Jerry Broskey Region II

Sue Davenport Region III

Nicholas Fiorini Region I

Joseph Pulizzi, III Region I

Steve Persun Region II

Fred Holland Solicitor

Superintendent’s Letter . . . . . . . 1

2016-17 School Calendar . . . . . 2

From the Desk of . . . . . . . . . . 3-4

Technology Updates . . . . . . . . . 4

Lunches. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5

Policies & Procedures . . . . . . 6-7

Nurses’ Notes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8

Transportation Schedule . . . . . 9

Student Privacy . . . . . . . . . . . . 10

Education Foundation . . . . . . 11

COnTEnTS

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For more information, visit us at: www.swasd.org

Mark Stamm

South Williamsport Area School District 2016-2017 CALEnDARAug 29 Professional Day Aug 30 First Student Day

Sept 5 Schools Closed Labor Day

Oct 10 Schools Closed – Columbus Day

Nov 21, 22 Act 80 ½ Days Nov 23 Professional Day Nov 24 Thanksgiving Day Nov 24-28 Schools Closed

Dec 23-Jan 2 Schools Closed Dec 25 Christmas Day

Jan 1 New Year’s Day Jan 2 Schools Closed Jan 16 Weather Day (1)

Feb 10 Act 80 Full Day Feb 13 Weather Day (2)

March 17 Weather Day (3)

April 12 Weather Day (4) April 13 Weather Day (5) April 14 Schools Closed April 17 Weather Day (7) April 18 Weather Day (6)

May 29 Memorial Day

June 6, 7 Act 80 ½ Days June 7 Last Day June 7 Commencement

180 Student Instructional Days 182 Teacher Days 4 Act 80 Days/Student ½ Days 2 Professional Days

Professional Day – No School for Students

Act 80 ½ Days – Early Dismissals: High School at 12:00 p.m. and Elementary at 12:30 p.m.

Weather Day – Used as a make-up day if necessary due to a prior emergency school closing

SWASD OPEn HOUSES 2016-2017CENTrAl ElEMENTAry K-4 • Kindergarten Parent Orientation August 29, 2016 at 5:30 - 6:15 p.m.

• Open House for Grades 1-4 August 30: Grades 1 & 2 at 5:30 - 6:15 p.m. Grades 3 & 4 at 6:15 - 7:00 p.m.

rOMMElT GrADES 5 & 6 (meet in the auditorium) August 29: Grade 5 at 5:30 - 6:30 p.m. Grade 6 at 6:45 - 7:45 p.m.

SOuTH WIllIAMSPOrT Jr./Sr. HIGH SCHOOl August 23: Grade 7 at 6:00 p.m. (meet in the auditorium)

September 7: Grades 8-12 at 7:00 p.m. (meet in the cafeteria)

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TIME SCHEDULES

Jr/Sr High School – 7 - 12

7:44 a.m. – Students enter building

7:50 a.m. – Late Bell

2:31 p.m. – Dismissal

rommelt – 5 & 6

8:15 a.m. – Students enter building

8:30 a.m. – First Bell

8:35 a.m. – Tardy Bell

3:00 p.m. – Dismissal

Central – K - 4

8:15 a.m. – Students enter building

8:30 a.m. – First Bell

8:35 a.m. – Tardy Bell

3:00 p.m. – Dismissal

For up-to-date Sports Schedules, go to… swasports.org

South Williamsport Area School District Athletics

South Williamsport Area School District Fall 2016 School Board Meeting Dates (as of 7/12/16) 7:00 p.m. r.r. rommelt Building – Conference room

NoTE: If another Board meeting is required within a certain month, a special meeting date will be set.

Monday, August 1, 2016 Monday, August 22, 2106 Monday, September 12, 2016 Monday, october 3, 2016

South Williamsport Area School District

Monday, November 7, 2016 Thursday, December 1, 2016 (Re-organization meeting)

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For more information, visit us at: www.swasd.org

The Kindergarten Lobby at Central is receiving a face lift this year. Mountie Seniors McGwire Molino, Michelle Hunter, and Billy Kline participated in the Youth Leadership Program at Penn College during the 2015-2016 school year and have been awarded

a grant for their service project, a proposal to create a mural on diversity in the elementary school. The mural will be located on both sides of the lobby’s upper walls, where all of Central’s students will be able to view it as they travel to and from specials classes. Throughout the past year this trio of seniors has been gathering input from various advisors, teachers, and students.

In order to have some of the student body at the elementary level share their view of the meaning of diversity, McGwire, Michelle, and Billy enlisted the help of Mrs. Cindy Troutman-Myers, the elementary art teacher. Mrs. Troutman-Myers asked a smattering of students from 3rd through 6th grades to each draw a picture depicting their understanding of diversity. According to McGwire, “The outcome was amazing.” The mural’s design is based on these students’ pictures. Rebecca Nash, also a senior at South, will be the artist putting the design on the walls. The group’s goal is to have the diversity mural finished by october. What a wonderful gift these young people are giving to our current and future elementary students. A gift with a timeless message – we are a diverse people and each person is unique and special. Gives one a sense of Mountie Pride, doesn’t it?

Kathy Furman, Central Principal

From the desk of…

As the school year approaches I would like to update you on our Student Incentive Program. Teachers and staff recognize students through our S.o.U.T.H. model. Within that model, students are given a ticket when exemplifying traits such as striving

to do their best, being organized, understanding and showing empathy, exhibiting teamwork, and displaying honesty and integrity. one portion of the ticket is turned into the office and a weekly drawing occurs for prizes such as gift cards to restaurants. The other portion is kept by the student. Beginning this year,

the portion of the ticket given to the student, can be redeemed in the school store. An exchange system has been set-up in which students can use their Incentive Tickets to “purchase” anything from food and beverages to school supplies and clothing. At the end of the year, all tickets given out are placed into a box by grade level. Tickets are then chosen randomly for larger prizes. our school-wide positive behavior system is a good reinforcement of the positive qualities and characteristics the community and school want to see in our youth. It provides a way to carry over and support the way families encourage their sons and daughters at home. We have found success in this system, and look forward to its continued use and development.

Mr. Jesse Smith, Jr. /Sr. High School Principal

The 2016-17 school year is rapidly approaching and we are looking forward to another fantastic year. I would like to take this opportunity to welcome our new 5th grade students and their parents to Rommelt. We are excited to get to know you. We have been very busy over the

summer getting things prepared for the upcoming school year. one of the new additions is we have added a second computer lab at Rommelt that has 24 computers in it. This second computer lab is located in the library and will allow our teachers and students additional access to materials online for research and project development. Some updates were also done to two areas of Rommelt. The Rommelt office received a few minor renovations. Those renovations include a new counter, a fresh coat of paint, and some reorganization of office equipment. Finally, our maintenance

department has repainted the auditorium at Rommelt. The colors have been updated to make it look brighter and it looks great. I would to take this opportunity to welcome a few new staff members to Rommelt. I would like to welcome Mrs. Lisa Laidacker. Mrs. Laidacker has been a guidance counselor at the high school and will become our new elementary computer teacher. She will be teaching computer skills to students in grades K-6. I would also like to welcome Ms. Rebecca Sparks as our 5th & 6th grade itinerant learning support teacher. She will be in the classroom while Mrs. Bailey will be doing our Supplemental Learning Support. Ms. Sparks will replace Mrs. Isenberg, who transferred to Central Elementary to work as an additional Title one Teacher. We are looking forward to another exciting school year and encourage everyone to follow our school district Facebook page and school website to see all the wonderful things our teachers and students are doing throughout the year.

Dwight Woodley, Rommelt Principal

OFFICE 365 – Students Can now Get Microsoft Office for FREE! We are very excited to announce that every student in grades 3-12 will be receiving a Microsoft office 365 account. This automatically updatable, subscription-based software ensures your child will always have the latest version of Word, Excel, PowerPoint, oneNote, and more at their fingertips whether they are at school or home. The subscription allows students to:• Install on up to 5 compatible PCs and Macs, plus 5 tablets

• Use with OneDrive for automatic device syncing• Use the same programs as the faculty to ensure full file fidelity

The District is committed to help train our students to succeed and prepare for life. To do that, we’re providing Microsoft office to every one of our students free of charge. Students will be receiving more information on this exciting offer and how to access their account in the first month of school.

COPPA – Children’s Online Privacy Protection Act The Child online Privacy Protection Act (CoPPA) requires that web-based tools and application providers obtain verifiable parental consent in order for children under the age of 13 to use web-based tools and applications. The responsibility of obtaining parental consent is often passed on to schools. In order for the District to allow your student access to online educational services, parents/guardians must acknowledge receipt of and agree to the attached opt-In form. Please note that our policies limit what data we can provide to online educational services providers with respect to students under the age of 13 to the following: student name, date of birth, gender, zip code, school and years of attendance, local student ID number, state student ID number, disability information pertinent to a student’s educational plan, the student’s District email address, and any activities and awards the student wishes to disclose. Parents/guardians can request to review and have removed personal information that an online educational service provider has collected from the student. If a parent/guardian wishes to review or have removed the data provided to a provider by the District, a written request should be sent to the students’ principal. In some instances, depending upon the nature of the request, the parent/guardian may be required to contact the provider directly. South Williamsport Area School District makes every effort to select and implement products that protect the confidentiality of students’ personally identifiable information and that avoid third party promotional marketing material. In order for students to use some selected web-based tools and applications, it may be necessary for the District to provide student data. In addition to data provided by the District, online educational service providers may collect additional data using cookies, logs and other Internet-based technologies. Addition information and consent forms will be sent home with students at the beginning of the year. Please watch for this information and return the necessary paperwork to the school office as soon as possible.

Elementary Computer Teacher – Grades K-6 Beginning this fall, we will be offering an elementary computer curriculum to our K-6 students during their weekly special schedule rotation. This new curriculum will be taught by Mrs. Lisa Laidacker. The elementary computer curriculum will include keyboarding, Microsoft Word, Microsoft PowerPoint, internet researching skills, internet safety and computer basics. The curriculum will continue to be developed as the students gain computer skills. Please welcome Mrs. Laidacker to the elementary staff.

Dwight Woodley, Director of Instructional Technology

South Williamsport Area School District

TECHnOLOGY UPDATES

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We’re looking forward to another great year for our athletic programs. Please remember to check our sports-specific website, www.swasports.org, which is a great resource for everything South sports. We have also linked the site from our homepage. We will keep things as up-to-date as possible with schedules, directions, scores, postponements/reschedules, and more. For those of you who

follow Twitter, @swasports will keep you informed with our athletic programs as well. Sports passes will be available for purchase at the high school office beginning Aug 15. Prices: Adults - $40; Students - $20; Sr Citizens – free with proof of South Williamsport residence.

swasports.org – your headquarters for Mountie Sports!

The 2016-17 school year will be starting in just a few short weeks! The special education department will continue to see new faces this year, as we need to fill two positions due to a retirement and a personnel transfer. We will be interviewing for these positions in the next two weeks and hope to announce the newest additions to our special education department at the board meeting in August. The positions left vacant are a supplemental learning support position for 5th/6th grade at Rommelt Elementary, as well as the supplemental learning support position for 7-12th grade at the Junior/Senior High School. We continue to work hard to provide a continuum of learning support services to reach all levels of learners

in our district. As in the past, the district will continue to collect data and keep parents informed of student progress. We strongly believe in the team approach to analyze student performance and gather as much data as possible in order to make the best informed educational decisions on what steps may be needed to better meet the educational needs of our students. It is a privilege to work with a great team of teachers, administrators, and parents. I look forward to adding two fresh new educators to our current team as we gear up for another exciting and successful school year.

Scott Hill, Athletic Director

Kristin Bastian, Special Education Director and School Psychologist

school lunches

Elementary/rommelt: K – 6th grade Breakfast: $1.05 Reduced: $ .30 regular lunch: $2.15 Reduced: $ .40

High School: 9th – 12th grade Breakfast: $1.15 Reduced: $ .30 regular lunch: $2.40 Reduced: $ .40

Milk price: $ .50

Every effort will be made to

accommodate special medical

menus and dietary needs if

parents contact the Director of Food

Services.

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An application for the Free and Reduced Lunch Program will be among the paperwork that students receive when school begins. If you wish to apply for free or reduced lunch, it is important that the application is completed properly. Improperly completed applications can result in the delay or denial of free or reduced lunch. Below are some common questions that we receive regarding the Free and Reduced Lunch Program. Who can get free meals? All children in households receiving Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) or Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) benefits can get free meals regardless of income. Foster children that are under the legal responsibility of a foster care agency or court are eligible for free meals. Also, children can get free meals if the household’s gross income (income before taxes; not take home income) is within the free limits on the Federal Income Eligibility Guidelines. The Income Guidelines will be included with the application that your child will receive. Who can get reduced price meals? Children can get low cost meals if your household’s gross income is within the reduced price limits on the Federal Income Eligibility Guidelines.Do I have to fill out an application this year if my child qualified for free or reduced lunch last year? Yes. Your child’s application status from the prior school year will carry over to the new school year until September 28, 2016. You must send in a new application to determine whether your child qualifies for the current school year. I recently received a letter from the District stating that my child qualifies for free lunch. Do I need to fill out an application? No application is required in this case, as long as the letter states that it is for the 2016-2017 school year. Certain agencies that provide assistance to families notify the District that the student automatically qualifies for free meals. We are authorized to use these lists in lieu of an application from the family. Will the information I give on the application be checked? Yes. We may ask you to verify the information provided by sending written proof to us.

When completing an application, please keep the following items in mind. If you have more than one child in the school district, you only need to complete one application. For SNAP/TANF applications, be sure to include your SNAP/TANF number (typically 41/XXXXXXX) or Access Card number. For Foster Children, be sure to check the box indicating that the student is a foster child. For income applications, be sure to indicate how often the income amount is received (i.e. weekly, biweekly, monthly, etc). on all applications, be sure to list all household members and include the grade of school-aged children. Household members include all people living in your household, related or not, who share income and expenses. All applications must be signed by an adult household member. That adult must also list the last four digits of his or her social security number. Failure to do so will result in a denied application. We welcome any questions or comments regarding the Free and Reduced Lunch Program. Any questions may be directed to Jamie Mowrey, Accountant at 570-327-1581 Ext. 2122.

FREE AnD REDUCED LUnCH APPLICATIOn PROCESS

Like us on FacebookStay up to date with events and activities around the school

and community by following the district Facebook page. With almost daily updates on student activities, awards, achievements, and special events this is a perfect one-stop location to stay connected with your community schools.facebook.com/SWMounties

Beginning November 29, 2016, South Williamsport residents may use the high school building between the hours of 6:00 p.m. and 9:00 p.m. Monday through Friday for the purpose of exer-cise walking during regularly scheduled school days. The pro-gram will not be available on school vacation days or snow days. The winter walking program will run through the end of March. Children must be accompanied by an adult at all times. Entrance to the second floor for walking will be through the rear of the school at the cafeteria entrance. The parking area behind the school is well lit. Residents may contact the high school office at 570-326-2684 if there are any questions.

South Williamsport Residents

WInTER WALKInG PROGRAM

For more information, visit us at: www.swasd.org

nOTIFICATIOn OF RIGHTS UnDER FERPA FOR ELEMEnTARY AnD SECOnDARY SCHOOLSThe Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) affords parents and students who are 18 years of age or older (“eligible students”) certain rights with respect to the student’s education records. These rights are:1. The right to inspect and review the student’s education records. 2. The right to request the amendment of the student’s education

records that the parent or eligible student believes are inaccurate, misleading, or otherwise in violation of the student’s privacy rights under FERPA.

3. The right to provide written consent before the school discloses personally identifiable information (PII) from the student’s education records, except to the extent that FERPA authorizes disclosure without consent.

one exception, which permits disclosure without consent, is disclosure to school officials with legitimate educational interests. A school official is a person employed by the school as an administrator, supervisor, instructor, or support staff member (including health or medical staff and law enforcement unit personnel) or a person serving on the school board. A school official also may include a volunteer or contractor outside of the school who performs an institutional service or function for which the school would otherwise use its own employees and who is under the direct control of the school with respect to the use and maintenance of PII from education records, such as an attorney, auditor, medical consultant, or therapist. A school official has a legitimate educational interest if the official needs to review an education record in order to fulfill his or her professional responsibility.

4. The right to file a complaint with the U.S. Department of Education concerning alleged failures by the [School] to comply with the requirements of FERPA. The name and address of the office that administers FERPA are:Family Policy Compliance office U.S. Department of Education 400 Maryland Avenue, SW Washington, DC 20202

FERPA permits the disclosure of PII from students’ education records, without consent of the parent or eligible student, if the disclosure meets certain conditions found in FERPA regulations. A school may disclose PII from the education records of a student without obtaining prior written consent of the parents or the eligible student –• To other school officials whom the school has determined to

have legitimate educational interests. • To officials of another school, school system, or institution of

postsecondary education where the student seeks or intends to enroll.

• To authorized State and federal agencies as required by law.• In connection with financial aid for which the student has

applied.• To State and local officials in connection with the juvenile justice.• To organizations conducting studies for, or on behalf of

the school, in order to: (a) develop, validate, or administer

predictive tests; (b) administer student aid programs; or (c) improve instruction.

• To accrediting organizations to carry out their accrediting functions.• To parents of an eligible student. • To comply with a judicial order or lawfully issued subpoena.• To appropriate officials in connection with a health or safety

emergency.• Information the school has designated as “directory information”.

South Williamsport Area School District

The School Board recognizes that smoking in school buildings is a violation of the “Pro-Children Act of 1994”. It represents a health and safety hazard and therefore is of concern to the Board. For purposes of this policy, smoking shall mean all uses of tobacco, including but not limited to cigars, cigarettes, pipes and smokeless tobacco. In order to protect students and staff from an environment, which may be harmful, the Board declares the buildings of the South Williamsport Area School District to be smoke free and prohibits smoking by any employee, student, or visitor in any district building and in the stadium. The District Administration shall establish procedures to enforce this policy, which may include suspensions and termination for repeat offenders.

Smoking Prohibited

WEAPOnS POLICY

Requesting to Use District Facilities

By School Board Policy #218.1, the possession or use of weapons and replicas of weapons on school property or while involved in a school related activity is forbidden. “Dangerous weapon” means any weapon, device, instrument, material or substance, which under the circumstances in which it is used, attempted to be used or threatened to be used, is readily capable of causing death or serious physical injury. Violation of this policy will result in disciplinary action, which will result in suspension, and expulsion that could be permanent. This policy is necessary to be in compliance with new State and federal laws regarding weapons in school.

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The school district recently overhauled its facility use policy. The new policy creates a clear pathway for groups and organizations inside and outside the community to request permission to use district facilities. As always, school district needs take precedence, but if available, groups now have a uniform application process to follow. Fees are assessed to certain groups based on the facility requested, additional staff needed, and any equipment rentals. For additional information, check-out the school district web site main site under the oUR DISTRICT tab, and then FACILITY USE.

AHERA notification In compliance with the AHERA (Asbestos Hazard Emergency Response Act) we have available the South Williamsport Area School District Management Plans. The district has a copy of all inspections in the district and each school has their individual copy. These Management Plans are on site and available for your review. If you have any questions please feel free to contact Bill Reifsnyder, Asbestos Coordinator, at 570-320-4443.

The South Williamsport School District uses an Integrated Pest Management (IPM) approach for managing insects, rodents and weeds. our goal is to protect every student from pesticide exposure by using an IPM approach to pest management. our IPM approach focuses on making the school building and grounds an unfavorable habitat for these pests by removing food and water sources and eliminating their hiding and breeding places. We accomplish this through routine cleaning and maintenance. We routinely monitor the school building and grounds to detect any pests that are present. The pest monitoring team consists of our building maintenance, office and teaching staff and includes our students. Pest sightings are reported to our IPM coordinator who evaluates the “pest problem” and determines the appropriate pest management techniques to address the problem. The techniques can include increased sanitation, modifying storage practices, sealing entry points, physically removing the pest, etc. From time to time, it may be necessary to use chemicals to manage a pest problem. Chemicals will only be used when necessary, and will not be routinely applied. When chemicals are used, the school will try to use the least toxic product when possible. (Applications will be made only after normal school hours.) Notices will be posted in these areas 72 hours prior to application and for two days following the application. Parents and guardians of students enrolled in the school may request prior notification of specific pesticide applications made at the school. To receive notification you must be placed on the school notification registry. If you would like to be placed on the registry, please notify the district in writing. Please include your email address if you would like to be notified electronically. Send all request to Bill Reifsnyder, 515 West Central Ave., South Williamsport PA 17702. If a chemical application must be made to control an emergency pest problem, (ex. Stinging insects) notice will be provided by telephone to any parent or guardian who has requested such notification in writing. Exemptions to this notification include disinfectants and anti-microbial products; self-containerized baits placed in areas not accessible to students, and gel type baits placed in cracks, crevices or voids; and swimming pool maintenance chemicals. Each school year the district will prepare a new notification registry. If you have any questions, please contact Bill Reifsnyder, 570-320-4443, IPM Coordinator.

InTEGRATED PEST MAnAGEMEnT Procedure for Closing SchoolThe decision to close schools or delay school openings for inclement weather, unsatisfactory heating conditions, epidemic, or other emergency conditions shall come from the office of the Superintendent of Schools.Important Points to Remember:• In case of delayed school openings, buses will operate

on a delayed schedule according to the period of time specified in the announcement. For example, should the opening of school be delayed two hours, buses will run two hours later, including parochial runs.

• Every attempt will be made to make delayed opening or closing decisions by 11:00 p.m. the night before or by 6:30 a.m. the day of school.

• Please inform your child of an alternate location for him/her to go in the event school is dismissed early and you are not home.

• The primary means of communicating closing information will be an automated phone call service (Parent Link). However, announcements will also be made through TV and Radio as a backup.

Radio Stations

WGRC WILQ WZXR WBZD 90.7 and 107.1 105.1 99.3 AND 103.7 93.3

WWPA WRVH WJSA WRAK AM 1340 107.9 96.3 and AM 1600 AM 1400

WKSB WLYC 102.7 1050 AM

TV Stations Check your local provider for channel numbers.

WYOU WNEP WBRE WPSU

PLEASE DO NOT CALL school officials at the school or home or radio station personnel for information.

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For more information, visit us at: www.swasd.org

review of Current Pennsylvania School Health law Pennsylvania School Law requires that all children attending school have the following immunizations:

(1) Diptheria and Tetanus (DTP, DtaP, Td, DT)—4 doses with the 4th dose administered after the 4th birthday

(2) Polio—3 doses

(3) Measles, Mumps, Rubella (MMR)—2 doses

(4) Hepatitis B—3 doses

(5) Varicella—2 doses—Vaccine to prevent chicken pox if child has not already had the disease.

Children entering 7th grade need the following:

(1) Tetanus, Diphtheria, Acellular Pertusss (Tdap)—1 dose

(2) Meningococcal Conjugate Vaccine (MCV)—1 dose

Pennsylvania School Health Law requires students in kindergarten, 6th grade and 11th grade to have physical examinations. Parents of children going into kindergarten were given the PA Department of Health form, Private Physician’s Report of Physical Examination of a Pupil of School Age, when they registered their children for school. This form was also given to children who will be going into 6th or 11th grade. Ask your child’s physician to complete the form at the time of the physical examination. Return the completed form to the school nurse by December 1, 2016.

Students in 1st grade, 3rd grade, and 7th grade are required to have dental examinations. Students who will be entering these grades were given the PA Department of Health form, Private Dentist Report of Dental Examination of a Pupil of School Age, for the dentist to fill out. The school employs a dental hygienist to complete a dental screening, but we recommend that children see their own dentists as the school exam is only a screening—no treatments will be provided.

The South Williamsport Area School District accepts reports of private physical and dental exams completed within one year prior to a student’s entry into the grade where the exam is required. Please return completed physical and dental forms as soon as possible. If you need forms or have any questions, contact one of the nurses at school.

Central Fax: 570-320-4492

Rommelt Fax: 570-567-0807

High School Fax: 570-326-2687

School Growth Screening Program obesity in children is an epidemic in the United States. The number of children who are overweight has doubled in the last 2-3 decades. The increase is in both children and adolescents,

Notes from…your School Nurses

ATTENDANCE

and in all age, race, and gender groups. obesity puts children at a greater risk of developing many adverse health conditions as adults, such as, Type 2 Diabetes, heart disease, high blood pressure, stroke, and depression. Type 2 Diabetes is on the rise for children, as well. In an effort to combat this epidemic, procedures have been added to the Pennsylvania growth screening program.

To meet the growing challenge of overweight and obesity among our youth, the state-mandated school growth screening program includes determination of the Body Mass Index (BMI) and BMI-for-age percentile. BMI is a weight for stature index that can be used to help determine whether the student is within a normal growth pattern, overweight, at risk of becoming overweight, or underweight. BMI should be considered a screening tool and not a definitive measure of overweight and obesity as the indicator does have limitations. For example, some athletes and dancers may have a high BMI due to increased muscle mass. Parents will be notified of the results and will be advised to share these with the student’s health care provider, as he/she is the best person to evaluate whether or not the measurements are within a healthy range.

Prescription Medication Policy reminder To ensure safe administration of medication at school, medication can only be given if a signed authorization form from the child’s physician and written parent permission are received at school. The authorization form can be obtained from school. The medication must also be contained in the original, pharmacy labeled container. Please keep in mind that medications given two or three times a day can be given at home, before and after school hours unless otherwise directed by a physician.

As the school year approaches, please remember the attendance requirements made by the State. Any student who is absent ten or more days needs a doctor’s excuse. Please remember to document any doctor or dentist absence so these days will not count in the ten days allowed by the state.

If your child is under the age of seventeen and is absent more than ten days without a doctor’s excuse, we must count these days as illegal. Three illegal days will require a first notice to be served and any days absent after this notice will result in a citation filed with the district magistrate. If your child is seventeen or older, they need a doctor’s excuse to return to school. Hopefully everyone will stay healthy and will not miss ten days of school.

South Williamsport Area School District

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2016-2017 Transportation Schedule

SECONDAry TrANSPOrTATION SCHEDulE

ElEMENTAry TrANSPOrTATION SCHEDulE

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For more information, visit us at: www.swasd.org

Bus #242 High School6:55 Wert’s 6:56 Beiter’s6:57 Snyder’s6:58 Lakeview Apts. Market St.7:00 Laylon’s7:03 Bartholomew’s7:04 Chad Lee Trailer Court7:06 Hahn’s Trailer Court7:07 Record’s7:08 Larson’s7:09 Dunn’s7:11 Karasek’s7:12 Lukasiewiez’s7:13 Covey’s7:15 Livorno’s7:18 Second Ave. & Sylvan Dell Rd.7:22 High School

Bus #260 High School6:51 Condo’s6:54 Pfirman Rd.6:55 Wagner’s 6:56 Kennedy Lane6:58 Methodist Church7:00 Lorson Dr. & Hillside Dr.7:01 Comp Rd.7:02 Jacob Rd.7:05 Eckroth’s7:07 Macgill’s7:11 Petrosky’s7:12 Reed’s7:13 Bastian’s7:15 Linden & Riverside7:22 High School

Bus #271 High School6:56 Retread Rd.6:57 Deer Rd.6:58 Machmer’s6:59 Fagnano’s7:00 Huling Lane7:01 Branton’s7:02 Burgess7:04 Valley St. & Edgewood Ave.7:05 Valley St. & Sortman Ave.7:07 Valley St. & Euclid Ave.7:08 Summer St. & Riverside Dr.7:10 Euclid Ave. & Spring St.7:17 High School

Bus #272 High School6:52 Valley Rd. & Village Dr. 6:53 Noviello’s6:54 Kistner’s6:55 Bachman’s6:58 Second Ave. Rte. 6546:59 First Ave. Rte 6547:00 Nisbet Terrace7:01 Bower’s7:02 Good-To-Go Store7:04 River Rd. & Rte. 6547:06 Decker’s7:07 Fitzsimmons7:09 W. End Cochran Ave.7:10 Cochran & Edgewood 7:20 High School

Bus #2010 High School6:55 Branton’s 6:56 Bennardi Development Turn-around6:57 Lorson’s 6:58 Warner’s6:59 Swinehart’s7:00 Miller’s7:02 Shuler’s 7:11 W. Soutern Ave. & Grove7:12 W. Southern Ave. & Brown7:14 W. Mountain Ave. & Brown7:15 W. Mountain Ave. & Linden St.7:16 W. Mountain Ave. & Maynard St.7:21 High School

OTHER TRANSPORTATION SCHEDULESBus #251 St John Neuman Academy

Bus #263 Vocational Education

Bus #240 Alternative Education RunsSpecial Education Runs

Bus #252Alternative Education RunsSpecial Education RunsPaddington Station (PM)

School VanWork ProgramAlternative Education

Bus #271 Central/Rommelt 7:39 Bennardi Development Turn-around7:39 Lorson’s7:40 Storms7:42 Swinehart’s7:44 Miller’s7:45 Schuler’s7:53 Waterdale Rd.7:55 Fagnano’s7:56 Machmer’s7:57 Retread Road7:59 Valley St. & Edgewood Ave. 8:00 Sortman Ave. & Valley St. 8:03 Edgewood Ave. & Cochran Ave.8:04 East End Cochran Ave.8:05 Middle Cochran Ave.8:06 West End Cochran Ave.8:07 Petrosky’s8:08 Reed’s8:09 Yeagle’s8:10 Edgewood Ave. & Euclid Ave.8:15 Central Elementary8:17 Rommelt Elementary

Bus #272 Central/Rommelt7:41 Condo’s7:45 Big Run Rd.7:49 Pfirman Rd.7:55 Lorson Dr. & Johnson Dr. 7:57 Lorson Dr. & Hillside Dr.7:58 Middle of Hillside Dr.7:59 Comp Rd.8:01 Wilton’s8:03 Follmer’s8:04 Noviello’s 8:05 East Village Dr. & Valley Rd.8:06 River Rd.8:13 Linden St. & Whitford Ave.8:18 Central Elementary8:20 Rommelt Elementary

Bus #2010 Central/Rommelt7:48 Kistner’s 7:51 Second Ave.7:52 First Ave.7:53 Nisbet Terrace7:54 Roger’s7:55 Bowers 7:56 Good to Go Store7:57 Freas’s7:58 MacGill’s7:59 B&S Automotive8:00 River Rd. & Rte. 6548:01 Decker’s8:02 Trimble’s8:03 Boyles8:04 Valley St. & Brook St.8:05 Shaffer St. & Riverside Dr.8:06 Summer St. & Riverside Dr.8:07 Clarendon St. & Riverside Dr.8:10 West Southern Ave. & Stanton St.8:12 Kaiser Ave. & Clark St.8:15 Central Elementary8:17 Rommelt Elementary

Bus #242 Central/Rommelt7:45 Wert’s7:46 Lakeview Apts. Main St.7:48 Lakeview Apts. Market St.7:52 Chad Lee Trailer Court7:53 Hahn’s Trailer Court7:54 Evan’s7:55 Miller’s7:56 Lynn’s7:57 Campbell’s7:57 West End Sylvan Dell Park Rd7:58 Lukasiewiez’s8:03 Kohler’s8:05 Bobatas8:06 Kilgus’s8:08 1st Ave.8:10 Fleming St. & E. Second Ave8:11 Fleming St. & E. Southern Ave8:13 Main St. & Central Ave.8:16 Central Elementary8:18 Rommelt Elementary

Bus #251 Central/Rommelt8:05 Seventh Ave. & Parakeet8:06 Seventh Ave. & Market St.8:07 E. Seventh Ave. & Main St.8:08 E. Seventh Ave. & Grandview 8:09 E. Seventh Ave. & Fairmont Ave. 8:11 E. Mountain Ave. & Sylvan Dr. 8:13 Swimming Pool8:14 E. Central Ave. & Fleming St. 8:15 Nolls 8:17 Central Elementary8:19 Rommelt Elementary

Bus #260 Central/Rommelt7:59 W. Mountain Ave. & Charlotte Ave8:00 W. Mountain Ave. & Highland Ave8:01 W. Mountain Ave. & Forrest St.8:02 W. Mountain Ave. & Linden St. 8:03 W. Mountain Ave. 2300 Block8:04 W. Mountain Ave. & Brown St.8:05 W. Southern Ave. & Brown St.8:06 W. Southern Ave. & Grove St.8:07 W. Southern Ave. & Elm St.8:08 W. Southern Ave. & Maynard St.8:09 W. Southern Ave. & Forrest St.8:10 W. Southern Ave. & Beech St.8:15 Central Elementary8:17 Rommelt Elementary

Bus #263 Central/Rommelt7:57 Riverside Subs7:59 Linden St. & Riverside Dr.8:02 Euclid Ave. & Spring St.8:03 Paddington Station (AM)8:06 Euclid Ave. & Winter St.8:07 Euclid Ave. & Gordon St.8:12 W. Southern Ave. & Fisher St.8:15 Central Elementary8:17 Rommelt Elementary

Why is this action being taken?

on May 13, 2016, a Joint Letter of Significant Guidance was issued by the Federal Departments of Justice and Education based on the Departments’ expanded interpretation of protections afforded to students under Title IX. The letter expands Title IX’s definition of “sex” or “gender” to now include a student’s preferred gender identity. In short, it prohibits schools from denying students access to facilities or activities based on their gender identity not their gender at birth. To read the federal letter: http://tinyurl.com/hs7rpj8

What is Title IX?

Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972 is a comprehensive federal law that prohibits discrimination on the basis of sex in any federally funded education program or activity. The principal objective of Title IX is to avoid the use of federal money to support sex discrimination in education programs and to provide individual citizens effective protection against those practices.

How are other schools responding to this federal letter?

Recent changes in and challenges to the federal interpretation of Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972 have resulted in confusion for school districts across the country. There are cases pending in several federal district courts, and conflicting decisions have already been issued from courts in different federal districts. Ultimately, these differences will need to be resolved by either Congress or the U.S. Supreme Court.

Until the differences in the interpretation of Title IX are resolved, the district will follow the federal Joint Letter of Significant Guidance issued on these matters in May by the U.S. Departments of Justice and Education.

What is the federal government now requiring?

The federal letter states that schools have an obligation to:

• respond promptly and effectively to sex-based harassment of all students, including harassment based on a student’s actual or perceived gender identity, transgender status, or gender transition;

• treat students consistent with their gender identity, even if their school records or identification documents indicate a different sex;

• allow students to participate in sex-segregated activities and access sex-segregated facilities consistent with their gender identity; and

• protect students’ privacy related to their transgender status under Title IX and the Family Education Rights and Privacy Act.

According to the federal guidance, a school may not require transgender students to have a medical diagnosis, undergo any medical treatment, or produce a birth certificate or other

identification prior to treating them in a manner consistent with their expressed gender identity. In addition, schools are not permitted to require transgender or gender non-conforming students to use separate restrooms or changing facilities. However, the federal guidance does not prohibit schools from accommodating requests from any student for additional privacy.

What happens if the district does not provide these accommodations?Failure to offer accommodations when requested can result in sanctions through the office of Civil Rights and in losses of $340,000 in Federal education funds. Those education funds are used to support educational needs for disadvantaged students and students with disabilities.

What steps is the district taking?South Williamsport Area School District has developed administrative guidance aimed at addressing the needs of all of the district’s students, including transgender and gender non-conforming students, to ensure that learning, school-related activities, and social interaction while at school are accomplished in a safe and discrimination-free environment. The guidance does not represent a school-board-level policy decision.

As always, our highest concern is ensuring the safety and wellbeing of our students. By following the expectations of the Departments of Justice and Education on these matters, we are taking the steps necessary to ensure that the rights and privacy of all South Williamsport Area students are protected and that every student has access to a safe, supportive, and nondiscriminatory learning environment.

The district will accept a student’s change of gender identity when the new gender is determined by the administration to be a part of the student’s core identity. Core identity is considered to be an inseparable and recognizable piece of who the student is as an individual and as a member of the broader community.

Under the district’s administrative guidance, the district will:

• offer these students school-based supports;

• speak with students before contacting their parents to ensure that the students’ privacy is protected;

• at the request of a student or parent, use the student’s preferred name and pronouns in all settings and communications;

• provide students access to single-sex restrooms, locker rooms, or similar facilities based on the students’ core gender identity;

• apply dress codes based on a student’s core gender identity;

• allow participation in single-sex classes based on students’ core gender identity;

• avoid arbitrary gender classifications unless they are necessary for educational purposes; and

• exclude a student’s gender or gender preference from disclosure under the Family Education Rights and Privacy Act.

AdministrAtive GuidAnce Addresses needs Of trAnsGender And Gender nOn-cOnfOrminG students

And

PrOtects the PrivAcy Of All students

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South Williamsport Area School District

SWASDF

Changes to permanent school records regarding name and gender will occur with an official or legal change as defined by the Commonwealth.

How is the district protecting the privacy of all students?

Under the district’s administrative guidance, all students at South Williamsport Area schools will now be able to use the restrooms and changing facilities that correspond with their core gender identities. To ensure the comfort and safety of all students, any student who desires additional privacy for any reason will now have access to private, single-stall restrooms and private changing facilities. In addition, any student requesting privacy during an overnight school trip will be offered single-room accommodations.

Private, single-stall restrooms available to students were made possible by designating some restrooms formerly reserved for faculty to provide additional privacy for students. Locker rooms also have been modified to create private changing areas if requested by any student.

Although transgender students, with approval from the administration, may use restrooms and locker rooms that correspond to their core gender identity, other students still have a right to privacy. on a case-by-case basis, the administration will work with students, teachers, and parents to ensure the privacy rights of every student are respected.

We want all of our students to feel safe and welcome. This administrative document is intended to provide guidance to school employees regarding these issues and to ensure consistency across the district so that that the needs of all of our students are protected.

What if the courts or Congress reverse the federal letter?When this matter is settled by the courts or Congress, the school board will consider appropriate policy changes at that time. In the interim, the Pennsylvania Department of Education and the Pennsylvania School Boards Association are advising all Pennsylvania school districts to follow the federal letter from the Departments of Justice and Education when accommodations are requested.

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For more information, visit us at: www.swasd.org

The South Williamsport Education Foundation is a 501(c)(3) organization committed to expanding educational opportunities for students through the allocation of Educational Improvement Grants.What is the Educational Improvement Tax Credit Program?PA Act 4 of 2001 provides for the establishment of the Educational Improvement Tax Credit (EITC) to be administered by the Department of Community Development. The Act authorizes the award of tax credits to businesses that make a contribution to educational improvement foundations like South Williamsport’s. These foundations in turn may award scholarships or grants to support innovative educational programs. An innovative program is defined by the act as advanced academic or similar program that is not part of the regular academic program of a public school but that enhances the curriculum or academic program for the school.Over $10,000 in grants awarded for 2016-17For the 2016-17 school year, the South Williamsport Education Foundation awarded grants to six South educators. Award recipients for the 2016-17 school year are:•MattEisley(HighSchoolChemistry)wasawarded$330

to take his AP Chemistry class to the nuclear reactor at Penn State.

• JessicaKaledas (High SchoolMusic)was awarded $900to take 40 music students to the Harrisburg Symphony Orchestra.

•Michael Steppe (High School Media Production) wasawarded $2082 for a drone. Unfortunately FAA rules prevent the district from operating a drone, but the foundation agreed to reserve the money for Mr. Steppe to submit an alternative grant.

•Manny Tsikitas (District Librarian) was awarded $2850for an Educator in Residence grant.

• LisaLaidacker(BusinessEducation)wasawarded$2240for a career exploration software program called Career Cruising for students in grades 7-12.

• AshleyWiley(HighSchoolPhysics)wasawarded$2414for a Comparison Microscope for her Forensic course.

To find out how you can get involved in this great program to enrich our schools, visit the PA Department of Community and Economic Development web site at www.newpa.com and search EITC.

South Williamsport Area EDUCATIOn FOUnDATIOn

The official registration and financial information of the First Community Foundation of Pennsylvania may be obtained from the Pennsylvania Department of State by calling toll free, within Pennsylvania, 1-800-732-0999. Registration does not imply endorsement.

For more information about who we are, what we do and how you can support the SWASDF, visit the Foundation link at: www.swasd.orgOR contact us… c/o First Community Foundation of Pennsylvania330 Pine Street, Suite 401 • Williamsport, PA 17701 • 570.321.1500

SWASDFPromoting Student Development through

Enriching Programs and Activities

SOUTH WILLIAmSPORT AREA SCHOOL DISTRICT FOUNDATION

ADMINISTrATIvE/BuSINESS OFFICE

515 W. Central Avenue

South Williamsport, PA 17702

Telephone: 570-327-1581

Fax: 570-326-0641

Mark Stamm, Superintendent

Dennis A. Artley, Business Manager

CENTrAl ElEMENTAry

Grades K - 4

555 W. Mountain Avenue

South Williamsport, PA 17702

Telephone: 570-323-3694

Fax: 570-320-4492

Kathy A. Furman, Principal

— DISTRICT ADMInISTRATIOn —

rOMMElT ElEMENTAry Grades 5 & 6

515 W. Central Avenue South Williamsport, PA 17702

Telephone: 570-320-4470 Fax: 570-326-0641

Dwight A. Woodley, Principal

Jr./Sr. HIGH SCHOOl Grades 7 - 12

700 Percy Street South Williamsport, PA 17702

Telephone: 570-326-2684 Fax: 570-326-2687

Jesse Smith, Principal Matthew Fisher, Assistant Principal

Scott Hill, Athletic Director: 570-320-4449 swasports.org Guidance Office: 570-320-4445

SOuTH WIllIAMSPOrT ArEA SCHOOl DISTrICT515 W. Central AvenueSouth Williamsport, PA 17702

**********ECRWSS**********

Postal CustomerSouth Williamsport, PA 17702

ECrWSS-EDDM Non-ProfitU.S. Postage

PAIDPermit 105

Williamsport, PA

For more information, visit us at: www.swasd.org