Inside... - Acmetonia Primary School

Summer 2015
Avenews
News from the Allegheny Valley School District
Inside...
Page 2...
Superintendent’s
Message
Page 3...
District Highlights
Page 4...
Congratulations
Class of 2015
Page 8... In Our Schools
Page 10...
One-to-One Program
Page 15... Public Notices
Valedictorian Meghan Kokoski
(left) and Salutatorian Spencer
Hurley (right) prepare for Springdale High School’s 2015 graduation ceremony.
Family and friends filled the seats in the
Marshall Auditorium as the 83rd graduating
class of Springdale High School marched
to their seats. As the ceremony started, the
70 members of the Class of 2015 began
their last official event as Allegheny Valley
students.
“Tonight you will end your journey at
Springdale High School,” Principal Michele
Welter told the class, “but will continue your
path to the future.”
Valedictorian Meghan Kokoski told
her classmates that “finding our personal
strengths is essential.” She reminded them
that “receiving the diploma is valuation that
we accumulated a skill set.” She urged her
classmates to take the initiative, stating that
in their futures “the true amount of work
you put into it will be evident.” She thanked
teachers and staff and wished her classmates
the best of luck.
Salutatorian Spencer Hurley reflected that
”we had plenty of good times here.” He
challenged his classmates to “find what you
love and make that exactly what you do.”
Superintendent Cheryl Griffith addressed the class, noting that “each of you
worked through challenges.” She detailed
successes and honors that were attained
throughout the class’s years in the District.
This class earned more than $4.5 million in
scholarships, amassed over 3,250 hours of
community service, and donated thousands
of dollars to charities. “As you move the
tassel to the left...you are encouraged to stay
on the path to success,” she told them.
Senior Class President James Gaschler
explained to the class that a plethora of
new paths are about to open with graduation. Noting “we did it,” he wished the best
for his classmates as they continued on the
paths to their futures.
For the pride that they have brought to
the District, congratulations and best wishes
are extended to all members of the Class of
2015. Superintendent’s Message
As the landscape of public education is changing,
our thinking about how we educate our students
continues to evolve to plan and do things somewhat
differently. The Allegheny Valley staff has focused
rather intensely, over the past five years especially,
to reinvent teaching and learning in ways that are
measurable and beneficial. We have good reason to
believe that, more than ever, our schools are providing an excellent education that considers the “whole
child” (social, emotional and academic) to prepare
and engage each one for success now and later on.
The changing world requires education to change
with it. In order for Allegheny Valley to not only
maintain, but to take a quality program to a greater
level of excellence, we must be innovative in our approaches to creating and working together on goals
that influence a quality staff and quality student
program. “Reading, writing and arithmetic” will always be essential. Skills in those disciplines alone,
though, are not enough to educate our students to
thrive in the “digital age.”
Our schools are building on the basics so that
teachers are planning and providing student experiences that connect the disciplines and foster imagination for creativity and problem-solving through
hands-on learning that may be individualized as well
as collaborative. STEAM (science, technology, engineering, art and mathematics) education is at that
forefront to inspire student learning and align with
the K-12 PA Career Education & Work Standards as
necessary for all students to be “future ready.”
The Colfax Upper Elementary Living Classroom, Rachel’s Neighborhood Garden at Springdale
Superintendent
Dr. Cheryl Griffith retires in
August 2015 with
six years in the
Allegheny Valley
School District.
Junior-Senior High School, Create U at Acmetonia Primary and From Fittsburgh to Fittsdale at
Springdale Junior-Senior High School are STEAM
projects funded by $20,000 annual grants for each
one made possible through the Grable and Benedum Foundations as well as Chevron most recently through the AIU Center for Creativity over the
past four years. These opportunities have served
as a catalyst to explore project-based learning with
more depth for “everywhere and all the time learning” where space is used differently to make movement more fluid and teaching and learning more of
a process instead of a product. Students and staff
interact more with space instead of being in the
space.
The partnership with Create Lab at Carnegie
Mellon University has been reinforced tremendous-
(continued on page 14)
District Hires New Superintendent
2
The Allegheny Valley School District named Mr.
Patrick M. Graczyk as its new Superintendent at
a Board of School Directors meeting on June 15,
2015. Currently the Assistant to the Superintendent
for the Highlands School District, Graczyk will
begin his new responsibilities on August 1. Graczyk
succeeds Dr. Cheryl A. Griffith who submitted her
intent to retire from the District in January.
Graczyk brings a distinguished record of more
than 20 years in education to his new position.
Graczyk graduated from Clarion University with a
Bachelor of Science degree in Elementary Education and the University of Pittsburgh with a Masters
Degree in Curriculum and Instruction. He also completed his Principal Certification and Supervisor of
Curriculum and Instruction certificate at the Univer-
Mr. Patrick Graczyk
begins his tenure as
the Superintendent
of the Allegheny
Valley School District on August 1,
2015.
sity of Pittsburgh. He received his Superintendent’s
Certification at Gannon
University and has been accepted into the University of Pittsburgh’s School of Education Doctoral
Program beginning in the summer of 2015.
Hired as a middle school (continued on page 10)
District Highlights
The Successes of 2014-2015
The theme of Creating the Extraordinary encourages the school community to work together in
exploring and supporting new approaches to educating our students as changes to the landscape of
public education evolve. Education in the District
took another leap forward as additional technology,
initiatives, and creative teaching ideas were brought
to Allegheny Valley. Now, the District takes time to
celebrate the following achievements:
• Allegheny Valley was awarded various grants
throughout the school year. One of the largest, the
Grable/Benedum Foundation STEAM Grant, was
accepted for $20,000. These grants are awarded
to projects that demonstrate innovative and unique
initiatives that engage students in Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Mathematics projects.
The grant was written for the physical education
department. They will partner with Fittsburgh to
help Springdale Jr-Sr High School become one of
the healthiest schools in the area.
• Springdale Jr-Sr High School was awarded a
Bronze Medal in the U.S. News & World Report’s
Best High Schools. The group ranked 21,000 public
high schools in 50 states and the District of Columbia and awarded Gold, Silver, and Bronze medals
The Class of 2015
earned more than
$4.5 million in
scholarships and
accepted over $1.5
million of that
amount.
based on state proficiency standards and how well
schools prepare students for college. The top 31%
of schools were honored with award medals.
• The 70 members of the Class of 2015 earned
more than $4.5 million in scholarships, accepting
over $1.5 million of that amount. This fact makes
the class the 17th to collect over $1 million, the 12th
to garner over $2 million, the 9th to receive over $3
million, and the 5th to acquire over $4 million in
scholarship money.
• Seventy-three students were acknowledged at the
32nd Annual Honors Banquet for achieving 94%
or above for the first three nine weeks of the school
year. Nineteen seniors were honored, including
Seventy-three
students were
acknowledged at
the annual Honors Banquet for
holding a GPA
of 94% or higher
for the school
year.
seven who were recognized for Honors Achievement throughout their time at Springdale Jr-Sr High
School.
• Colfax Upper Elementary School students partici(continued on page 11)
Allegheny Valley Holds Drill
Since 2009, the Allegheny Valley School District
has joined with community emergency management
agencies to conduct large-scale emergency drills at
the end of the school year. These drills have become a regular and necessary part of the Emergency
Management Plan. Once held, lessons learned from
these drills are added to procedures in the District’s
Plan. These updates support the goal of keeping the
Plan a working document.
This year, the drill simulated a gas leak at
Springdale Jr-Sr High School. Planning began in
the fall, with the local emergency management coordinator. School district training, establishing the
scenario, and working through communication items
were all completed prior to the drill.
The drill brought together all four district
municipalities, involving police, fire, emergency
management, the Lower Valley Ambulance Service,
and several neighboring EMAs, along with representatives from People’s Natural Gas. Allegheny
County Emergency Management also participated
and reviewed the drill.
(continued on page 13)
Local firemen
participate in
the Emergency
Management
drill held at
Springdale JrSr High School.
3
Congratulations to the Class of 2015
Zachary Jordan Acheson
Logan Michael Anderson
Michael Domenick Antoniono
Allen James Arnold
Michael James Banachoski
Samantha Linda Barker
Caroline Rose Bigler-Jerome
Ashley Yvonna Brooks
Jocelyn Elizabeth Burns
Ashley Sian Carner
Bryce Patrick Cawley
Cassandra Lynn O’Brien Clinch
Marco Paul DeGiglio
John DeMore
Joseph James Dwyer
Michael Andrew Fallen
Christopher Fink
Trista Marie Fink
Cassandra Marie Finnegan
Rebecca Rae Franks
Shannon Marie Franks
Daniel Robert Franskousky, Jr.
Mallory Jean Fraser
4
James Michael Gaschler
Christopher John Gent
Megan Lynn Harlow
Caitlyn Marie Harris
Kathleen Tesia Heilmann
Shane Franklin Howard
Spencer Charles Hurley
Brooke Anne Kelly
Bryan James Kephart
Austin Michael Kline
Meghan Jean Kokoski
Tracy Beth Kondrit
Zachary Douglas Lamperski
Taylar Landis
Kaitlyn Kellie Llewellyn
Adam Henry Lock
Thomas Michael Lyons
Terry James Manuel III
Ronald Dean Marks III
Elizabeth Ann Marshall
Dominic Joseph Mason
Natasha Marie Matthews
Rachel Elyse McKaveney
Kaylee Allison McNutt
Lisa Nicole Messina
Ashley Nicole Moan
Travis William Moody
Julia Louise Natalia
Christopher Thomas Neibar
Roy Keith Newcamp, Jr.
Seth Allen Pahlman
Tyler James Reichard
Renee Marie Ricci
Taran Elmer Roesch
Shaley Denise Schreckengost
Allison Renee Seiler
Alicia Marie Sgambati
Erin Elizabeth Sikora
Samuel Jonathan Sinka
Tyler James Sutlovich
Zane Seti Swaskoski
Emily Joy Thomm
Brianna Nicole Abigail Thorpe
Jonathan Twigg
Amanda Nicole Venglish
Bailey Jane Wargo
Savannah Lynn White
Senior Moments...
As the Class of 2015 leaves Springdale Jr-Sr High
School, they can be proud of the following accomplishments:
- Springdale Jr-Sr High School graduated 70 students in 2015.
- Approximately 35 percent of the class received
scholarships. The sources were:
College/university/
post-secondary scholarships $3,795,212
Armed Service Scholarships
696,800
Local Scholarships
62,270
TOTAL: $4,554,282
- Approximately $1,566,818 in 2015 scholarships
were accepted by seniors.
- The post-secondary plans of the graduating class:
- 43 % pursuing four-year college degrees
- 28 % entering a junior college or community college, then planning to transfer to a
baccalaureate degree program.
- 7 % enrolled in business/technical schools
- 4 % entering the Armed Services
- 6 % entering the job market
- 12 % undecided
- Students will attend 26 different universities, colleges, and technical schools, and enter three branches of the military.
- Students have registered for 29 areas of study at
the post-secondary institutions.
- The Class of 2015 completed in excess of 3,250
hours of community service.
Alumni Hall of Fame
The 2015 Alumni Hall of Fame inductees from left
to right: Frank J. Basilone, Ruth E. Carson, and
Gayle L. Godfrey.
The Allegheny Valley School District inducted its
Alumni Hall of Fame, Class of 2015, on Saturday,
April 11. Developed to recognize, celebrate, and
honor those alumni who have distinguished themselves through public service, academic achievement, and professional contributions, these alumni
serve to enhance the prestige and excellence of the
school district.
Frank J. Basilone (attended 1929-1942) Frank J. Basilone was a member of the 1942 graduating class of Springdale High School. He won
a scholarship to Duquesne University, but left to
serve his country in World War II. Basilone was
a draft choice of the Pittsburgh Steelers, but could
not play due to family commitments. However, he
played semi-pro football and baseball in Springdale,
(continued on page 13)
5
District Holds Third 5K Event
Allegheny Valley held its third Steps to Awareness
5K event on Saturday, April 25. Students, staff, and
community members came together to participate
in the run/walk and bring awareness to the special
needs of District students.
The 5K has become a healthy and positive way
to educate the community about the many special
needs of young people. The goals for the event continue to be to spread awareness about disabilities, to
provide an opportunity for community members to
meet and interact with students, to bring the community together, and to raise funds to support programs.
Over 300 individuals participated as runners,
volunteers, spectators, and members of the Dynamo Village. New to the 5K format this year, the
Dynamo Village housed activities and information
tables on various programs related to special needs.
Proceeds from the event go to the District’s Special
Education program, with a donation to the Autism
Society of Pittsburgh.
The funds raised over the past three years have
enabled District students to participate in activities
geared toward students with disabilities. Students
have taken field trips to the Children’s Museum,
attended a sensory-friendly version of Beauty and
the Beast, practiced skills through the Transitioning
to the Community program, and learned job training
skills in the Career and Community program. The Steps to Awareness 5K continues to be a
wonderful opportunity for the entire school community. Special thanks are extended to all who
contributed to help make the event possible.
Physical Education Department Receives Grant
6
In June, the Springdale Jr-Sr High School’s Physical Education Department became the fourth District
recipient of a $20,000 grant by the Grable and Benedum Foundations - an achievement Allegheny Valley
is not taking lightly. Prior projects include the Living
Classroom at Colfax, Rachel’s Neighborhood Garden at the High School, and Create U at Acmetonia
Primary School.
This year’s project will take students from Fittsburgh to Fittsdale. The grant will enable the high
school to partner with Fittsburgh - an organization
who’s goal is to make Pittsburgh the healthiest city
in the nation - to help Springdale become one of the
healthiest schools in the area. By taking the Fittsburgh Challenge and creating a school specific model,
representatives from Fittsburgh will help staff create
an online platform that builds community around
health and fitness. Fittsburgh will issue challenges
to the school (for example, grow and eat your own
vegetables from Rachel’s Garden) and the school will
document challenges on a leader board.
In addition, each 9th and 10th grade student will
be issued a FitBit Flex. The students will wear the
devices during physical education class and use the
information generated to create personalized fitness
programs for class. Students will also be encouraged to wear the FitBits during and after school to
help promote wellness.
Health Classes (7th and 9th grades) will learn
about Digital Citizenship, which encompasses using
social media appropriately to stopping cyber bullying to finding accurate sources on the internet and
everything in between. The school will work with
Common Sense Media to develop this curriculum.
The grant also includes ordering Arduino microcontrollers and Big Shot cameras for various projects, creating a dance unit for physical education,
using the FitBits in some way to assess intensity, and
working with math teachers to use the data from the
FitBits in their classes.
Staff Members Honored
Grade 5 teacher
McCall Malecki (right) and
paraprofessional
Karen Jarvie
(below right)
were honored
with awards for
their service to
students.
During the last semester
of the 2015-16 school
year, two staff members
were honored for their
contributions to education.
Teacher McCall Malecki,
Colfax Upper Elementary School Grade 5, was
recognized by the Consortium for Public Education
and Paraprofessional Karen Jarvie, Acmetonia Primary School, was honored by the Allegheny County
Local Task Force on the Right to
Education.
Malecki has been teaching in the Allegheny
Valley School District for nine years. She was
nominated for the Champions of Learning Awards
sponsored by the Consortium for Public Education.
The awards honor “individuals, organizations, and
businesses that create and support extraordinary
learning opportunities for youth throughout our
region.” Malecki was named a finalist in the Classroom Teaching category.
Jarvie began working for the District in 2009
and served as a paraprofessional at Springdale Jr-Sr
High School before moving to Acmetonia Primary
School. Jarvie won the Scott E. Folmer Staff Award
for fostering and supporting “the education of
students receiving special education services and
striv[ing] to help them make the best of their abilities by establishing high expectations and recognizing that all students can learn.” The award is given
by the Allegheny County Local Task Force on the
Right to Education.
Representatives from the District were on hand as
both individuals received their awards. In addition,
Malecki’s and Jarvie’s honors were acknowledged
by the District’s School Board with Extra Mile
Awards. Congratulations are extended to both individuals. They serve as excellent representatives of
the Allegheny Valley School District.
Staff Members Retire
This year, five staff members in the Allegheny Valley School District announced their retirements.
These individuals have dedicated most of their lives
to the field of education. In fact, the District will
lose over 147 years of experience when these staff
members walk out the doors for the last time. Each
of these staff members has played a memorable and
necessary role for the students of Allegheny Valley.
Cheryl A. Griffith serves the District as its
Superintendent. Hired in 2009, Griffith has worked
on developing STEM education, academic progress,
technology integration, and extended partnerships
for the District. She also co-chaired the Workforce
Development Committee for the AIU, served on the
Forum for Western Pennsylvania School Superintendents, and mentored prospective superintendents.
Prior to Allegheny Valley, Griffith worked for 39
years in the Highlands, Hampton Township, and
Apollo-Ridge School Districts.
Susan Canterbury was hired by Allegheny Valley
in 1998. She worked as a reading teacher at Springdale Jr-Sr High School, teaching various classes
in English and language arts. She also served as a
teacher mentor and the Department Head for Language Arts. Canterbury retires with 17 years with
the District.
Lynn Dedousis joined Allegheny Valley as a Literacy Specialist in 2004. In 2006, she was hired as a
full-time elementary teacher, working at both Colfax
Upper Elementary and Acmetonia Primary Schools.
Over the years, Dedousis worked with the summer
school and summer science camp programs. She
also worked for 19 years as a teacher prior to being
hired at Allegheny Valley.
Debbie Engles retires as
a special education teacher.
She began her position with
the District in 1982. Engles
has served on the selection
committee for mini-grant pro(continued on page 10)
(Top Left) Cheryl Griffith and
(Bottom Left)
Susan Canterbury retired
from the District
in 2015.
7
In Our Schools...
Springdale Jr-Sr High School
Honors Activities
For the 32nd time, Springdale Jr-Sr High School
recognized students in grades 7-12 for their high
academic records. Seventy-three students were
awarded certificates for achieving 94% or above for
each of the first three nine weeks of the school year.
These 73 students included: Grade 7 - nine
students; Grade 8 - eleven students; Grade 9 - ten
students, Grade 10 - eleven students; and Grade
11 - thirteen students. Nineteen seniors were also
honored, including seven who were recognized for
Honors Achievement each year of their career at
Springdale Jr-Sr High School.
Congratulations are extended to all students and
their families for their
commitment
to education.
Springdale JrSr High School
honored 73
students at the
Annual Honors Banquet.
Kelly Awards...
Junior Alex Conte is the first Springdale Jr-Sr High
School student to be nominated for an individual Kelly
Award.
8
The Gene Kelly Awards for Excellence in High
School Musical Theater began in 1991 to “recognize
and encourage student achievement and to focus the
attention of the community and school districts on
the importance of musical theater and arts education.” The Awards are given annually in fourteen
categories.
Springdale Jr-Sr High School has been nominated
Students Entering Military
Service Recognized
Serving your country is a very special path taken by
students after they graduate from Springdale Jr-Sr
High School. This year, three students announced
that they would enter military service. James Gaschler will join the National Guard; Spencer Hurley
will attend the Military Academy at West Point and
Senior Spencer Hurley and his mother talk with representatives from the Springdale Veterans’ Association at a recognition program.
enter the Army; and Thomas Lyons will serve in the
U.S. Navy.
The program was held in cooperation with the
Springdale Veterans’ Association. Greeted by Superintendent Cheryl Griffith, Captain Carl Kusbit, and
School Board President Larry Pollick, students were
congratulated and thanked for their future service.
“There is nothing more rewarding than serving your
county,” commented Kusbit. The Veterans’ Association sent several representatives to the event to speak
with the students and their parents. The idea was to
offer support, provide mentorship, and answer any
questions that the students may have.
The first year for this reception, the District and
Veterans’ Association hope to make it an annual
event to support students as they enter military
service.
in past years and has won several awards in technical areas. This year, however, marked a first for
SHS. Junior Alexander Conte was nominated in the
Best Supporting Actor category. The nomination
was the first for Springdale in an individual performance category.
Conte received the nomination for his performance as Moonface Martin in the production of
Anything Goes. Although he did not take home the
trophy, Conte was honored with being nominated.
The outcome is sure to be different for his senior
performance.
Colfax Upper Elementary School
Students Work to Help Others
Colfax students carried on their tradition of helping others throughout this school year. The Student
Council continued to hold special theme days where
students paid a small amount to wear or bring a certain item. Proceeds went to a number of District and
community organizations.
In addition, the group supported several food
drives and organized coupons for the purchase of
items at Barnes and Noble during the Colfax instrumental music performance. A percentage of the total
was donated to the Lower Valley Food Bank.
Colfax Upper Elementary students boxed items for the
Lower Valley Food Bank as part of this year’s volunteer
activities.
Colfax students
completed group
work in the 2015
Science Olympiad.
Multi-grade teams
competed against
each other to build
their science skills
and have fun while
they learned.
Colfax Continues Olympiad
For the fourth year, Colfax Upper Elementary School
held its Science Olympiad in June. The event encompasses two days, filled with STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math) concepts. Students had fun
learning academic skills and lessons in teamwork and
decision-making. Students are placed onto multi gradelevel teams and begin months in advance with teambuilding activities, so they understand that everyone on
the team has a role.
During the event, students answered questions,
completed experiments, and identified objects. Through
the efforts of many, students were able to participate in
exceptional days.
Acmetonia Primary School
Acme Holds Field Day
Kindergarten Students Graduate
May brings not only graduation for Springdale High
seniors but also for the District’s youngest students.
Continuing an annual tradition, Kindergarten students commemorated the end of the school year with
their own graduation ceremony.
Family and friends packed the Acmetonia
gymnasium to help celebrate the conclusion of
this group’s first year of school. Students marched
onto the stage to receive their diplomas and end
their days in Kindergarten. Elementary Supervisor Gregory Heavner and the Kindergarten teachers
helped students on their way. The Class of 2027 has
57 very proud members.
Acmetonia Primary School students celebrated the
end of the 2014-2015 school year with some fun in
the sun. Students were able to take part in a variety
of activities on the playground and in the gymnasium. Bounce rooms, races, and cornhole games
could be seen throughout the school and on its
grounds.
Due to the weather cooperating, students were
able to eat lunch on the beach towels they brought
with them to use. They took the time to also visit
with friends and classmates. Field Day was called
a success by students, parents, and teachers. It has
become a great way to end the school year on a very
Acmetonia students
participate in the
school’s Field Day.
Students completed a variety of
activities to help
celebrate the end of
the school year.
9
SHS To Begin One-to-One Program
One-to-one technology - a program where every student is assigned a technology device to use throughout the day at school and at home. According to
the One-to-One Institute (www.one-to-oneinstitute.
org), “With access to personal portable technologies in a wireless environment students can learn at
their own pace, ability levels, and take advantage of
the worldwide experiences and resources available
online-and just in time.” Those are the goals for the
Springdale Jr-Sr High School program scheduled to
start in January 2016.
The program will provide iPads to all students in
grades 9 and 10. Starting in July 2015, teachers of
these grade levels will receive technology devices,
materials, and, most importantly, staff development
on how to implement the program into their classrooms. The first year will serve as time to pilot the
program, with the goal to continue to purchase devices for one grade level each of the next two years.
One-to-one programs enable staff members to
teach differently and students to learn differently. It
provides for 24/7 anytime, anywhere learning and
additional online learning opportunities for students.
The program at Springdale will be outlined, with a
Retirements...continued from page 7
10
posals and as a teacher mentor. She represented the
District as a program presenter. Engles retires with
33 years of experience.
Vicki Grey began her employment with the District as a secretary at Acmetonia Primary School
for Principal Ralph Varrato in 1987. She transferred
to the Business Office in 1993 and worked as the
payroll officer, secretary, and Superintendent’s Administrative Assistant. She retired with 28 years of
experience with Allegheny Valley. These retiring staff members have seen their share
of educational goals and plans. They have learned
new programs, adapted to new leaders, and forged
new technology into their classrooms and work
areas. They have watched education adapt and
adjust in their buildings, at the District level, and
across the country. Throughout all of these changes,
the individuals have kept in mind that the most important part is the students. A very big thank you is sent to each of these individuals on behalf of Allegheny Valley staff, students,
and community members. While their departures
will leave a void, they are wished the best of luck in
whatever they choose to do. They deserve a happy
and healthy retirement. They will truly be missed.
timeline developed for activities to educate students,
staff, parents, and members of the community. In
addition, members of the administration are working on policies and procedures to be put in place to
govern the program. The policies will be provided
to the School Board to approve prior to devices being distributed to students.
New Superintendent...
continued from page 2
social studies teacher, Graczyk began his tenure with
the Highlands School District in 1996, He went
on to serve in the district as an Elementary Principal, Federal Programs Coordinator, Assistant to
the Superintendent, and Acting Superintendent. He
returned to his current position as Assistant to the
Superintendent in 2013.
Graczyk has led the district in Comprehensive
Planning, Curriculum, Staff Development, and Assessment initiatives. He also served as the Federal
Programs Coordinator at Highlands and the Superintendent of Record at Forbes Road Career and
Technical Center. Graczyk was honored by the National Association of Elementary School Principals
with the National Distinguished Principal Award
(USDE and PAESSP) in 2008 and was a finalist in
the NAESP Transformational Leadership Across
America: Turnaround Principals in Action award in
2010.
“Mr. Graczyk’s professionalism and experience
will allow him to bring a vision to Allegheny Valley
for the continued success of our school district. We
are lucky to have him,” commented School Board
President Larry Pollick.
Staff members (Top
Left) Debbie Engles;
(Top Right) Vicki Grey;
and (Bottom Left) Lynn
Dedousis are wished
the best of luck as they
begin their retirements.
Highlights...continued from page 2
pated in a two-day, school-wide Science Olympiad.
The Olympiad enabled all students to improve science skills.
• Fifty-seven students in the Class of 2027 participated in this year’s Kindergarten graduation events.
• Acmetonia Primary School held its annual Book
Fair incorporating a Family Night. Students and
their families participated in activities and crafts and
purchased books to support their love of reading.
• The District organized its third 5K run to support
its Special Education Department and build a greater
SHS students
(left to right)
Amy Altmeyer,
Max Shaginaw,
and Spencer
Hurley competed in KDKA’s
Hometown High
Q.
awareness for special needs. With the success of the
first two years, the District has been able to sponsor
activities and offer a summer program that provides
Allegheny Valley students with disabilities the opportunity to acquire job training and social skills
within their own community.
• Acmetonia Primary School developed Create U,
a large, multi-discipline area that supports STEAM
education. Made possible through a grant from the
Grable/Benedum Foundations, the project encourages students to explore, create, and express original
ideas.
• Seven SHS students participated in the Allegheny
Intermediate Unit’s Apprenticeship Program in the
areas of architecture, journalism, robotics, nursing,
broadcast journalism, and engineering.
• Sixty-five Acmetonia students (29%) participated
in the Summer Reading Bingo Program to promote
independent reading during the summer months.
Seventeen students were inducted into the Springdale Jr-Sr High School’s chapter of the National
Honor Society.
• Two SHS students earned 1st place awards at
the Pennsylvania Junior Academy of Science State
Competition. Held at The Pennsylvania State
University’s main campus, over 3,000 students from
around the state in grades 7-12 designed and conducted experiments then conveyed their findings in
10-minute presentations with 5-minute question and
answer sessions.
• Academic Games students brought home several
awards from the National Competition, including a
2nd Place (Propaganda, junior division) and 5th Place
(Propaganda, junior division) individual awards. In
addition, three students participated on WPAGL teams
that won 1st Place (Propaganda, elementary division),
2nd Place (Propaganda, senior division), and 4th Place
(World Events, middle division).
• A team of three SHS students qualified for the final
round of playoffs in the KDKA Hometown High Q.
The group is the first to make the final round, and
through their efforts, the school received a monetary
award.
• Springdale High School installed a wind turbine
that produced energy throughout the school year. The
turbine, in combination with 2 solar panels, produce
electricity that powers the living wall and hydroponic
systems that were designed and constructed by Engineering students. The system is a closed loop sustainable energy system (off the grid) that converts DC into
AC energy.
• One junior student was nominated for a Gene Kelly
Award in the Best Supporting Actor category. The
student is the first from Springdale to be nominated
for an individual Kelly Award.
• One senior student took 2nd place in the Congressional Art Show. For the next year, her artwork will
be on display in Congressman Doyle’s office in Washington DC.
• One Springdale Junior High student won 2nd Place
was honored at a reception at the Warhol Museum for
her 2nd place Creative Writing submission.
Leann Brannock, Michael
Zolnierczyk, and
Buck Altmeyer
won 4th Place
in the NAGC’s
Battery Car Race
and Challendge.
• One SHS student won an Honorable Mention in the
Pittsburgh Public Theater’s Shakespeare Monologue
and Scene Competition for her portrayal of Hamlet’s
famous “To be or not to be…” monologue. The greater Pittsburgh area had over 1,050 students involved in
the competition. Fewer than 1% of the students make
11
the final competition and another 1% are given “Honorable
Mention” status.
• Four SHS students placed 3rd in the PA Regional F1
High School Competition. For their achievement, the students were invited to the National Competition in May.
• Two SHS students were selected to attend the PMEA
District Chorus on Thursday, January 15 and Friday,
January 16 in Bethel Park.
• Three Springdale Jr-Sr High School students won a 4th
place finish in the Northern Area Gifted Consortium’s
(NAGC) Battery Car Race and Challenge at Duquesne
University today. There were 83 cars in the competition.
• Two students were selected for the Alle-Kiski Valley
Honors Band Festival at Valley High School. These two
students auditioned against other musicians in grades 9-12
as freshmen and both finished in the top two in their
sections.
•
Colfax student
Liam Dale
was selected
for the Seton
Hill Youth
Honors Band
and Youth
Honors Jazz
Band.
One SHS student was selected for the PMEA Junior High
Honors Band, and one junior high student and one Colfax
student were selected for the Seton Hill Youth Honors
Band. This same Colfax student was also selected for the
Seton Hill Youth Honors Jazz Band.
• Two students won 2nd place and three students won 3rd
place honors at the regional FBLA competition. Through
their placing, three students qualified for the State Competition in Hershey, PA.
• Springdale Junior High held a JA Day, where presenters
came to the building for interactive lessons with students.
• Seven SHS students participated in this year’s Future
City contest. Future City is part of a national network
of competitions sponsored by many local companies and
foundations. SHS students were part of a pilot program
to change and update the national competition this year.
They submitted a 1500-word essay on the largest global
enterprise, agriculture, then tackled the problem of feeding
thousands of people while protecting the earth’s resources.
The team decided to tackle the issues associated with
refugee camps in the Middle East. Additionally, the team
had to build a model, plan a presentation, and compete a
project management document. Finally, many hours of
research was required to be ready for the three plus hours
of questioning by special awards judges. For their
efforts, the team won the Most Innovative Design
12
of Infrastructure and the Best Communication System
awards.
• One SHS student placed 1st in the Middle School Challenge 1A in the local Fairchild Competition sponsored by
Colfax students participated in collecting items for the
Lower Valley Food Bank.
Phipps Conservatory. Over 750 local middle students were
involved in the competition.
• The SHS Girls’ Soccer and Football teams entered the
W.P.I.A.L. Playoffs. In addition, Springdale High School
also sent two swimmers to the P.I.A.A. Championships.
• District students participated in a number of service projects during the 2014-2015 school year, including: the National Honor Society led a District-wide drive for the Toys
for Tots program and collected $655 for the Lymphoma &
Leukemia Society’s Pasta For Pennies program; culinary
and art students held the second Empty Bowls event at
the high school; several groups collected donations for the
Lower Valley Food Bank. Members of the SHS Football
team and their coaches assisted the American Legion Post
764 with their canning project, collecting donations for the
Aspinwall VA hospital. Allegheny Valley staff contributed
“Secret Santa” gifts for the Lower Valley Food Bank and
donated to building Angel Trees and the District’s ECHO
Fund; Colfax School’s Student Council held numerous
special theme days to raise money for charity. Over the
course of the school year, funds were given to numerous
groups; Acmetonia students continued their sponsorship of
St. Jude’s Hospital and raised $520 for their Math-A-Thon
program, bringing the total to over $54,849 that Acmetonia
students have donated since 1997. Staff members
participated in the Jeans for Troops event and raised
money for the GI Go Fund, and the Allegheny Valley Education Association (AVEA) continued their annual Dress
Down Fridays and donated funds to the Lower Valley Food
Bank.
The District congratulates all of its students and staff
members on this year’s accomplishments. They continue
to work hard to bring recognition and esteem to Allegheny
Valley. Parents, community members, and alumni should
be extremely proud of a job well done.
Alumni Hall of Fame...continued from page 5
Dormont, and Oakmont. Basilone took his love
of sports and passed it on to numerous children in
the community. His career in coaching spanned 50
years in baseball and football. He was the founder
of the Springdale Pony League and Springdale
American Legion Baseball. Basilone also served his
community as a charter member of the Springdale
Veterans’ Association, Springdale American Legion,
and the local Knights of Columbus. He was an
elected member of the Springdale Borough Council
and an altar server at St. Alphonsus Church. His actions awarded him selection to the American Legion
Sports Hall of Fame and the Alle-Kiski Sports Hall
of Fame. His life of volunteerism was his chosen
career, where he excelled in making a difference in
other people’s lives.
Ruth E. Carson (attended 1949-1962) – Ruth
E. Carson graduated from Springdale High School
in 1962. She went on to secure a Bachelor of Science in Education Degree from Clarion University
and a Masters of Education Degree and Reading
Specialist Certificate from Indiana University of
Pennsylvania. Over her 42-year career, she served
the New Kensington-Arnold School District as a
classroom teacher, reading specialist, and Title I
Federal Project Coordinator. During that time, Carson developed and implemented multiple projects
above and beyond classroom teaching, including an
Exciting Summer Reading Program, a Title I PreK Program, and an Even Start Program. For her
efforts, Carson has been honored with a Children’s
Champion Award, the 2014 John C. Lovelace Human Rights Award, and the 2014 Paul Harris Fellow
award. She has served as a church officer and hosts
a weekly Bible Study in her home. Her latest contribution, Carson co-founded Project SEED to provide
weekend food for young children whose families
needed the extra support. She inspires others with her
love of children, generous nature, and her fearless
attitude in taking on new projects.
Gayle L. Godfrey (attended 1954-1967) Gayle L. Godfrey graduated from Springdale High
School in 1967. She went on to study at Indiana
University of Pennsylvania, graduating with a Bachelor of Science Degree. Several years later, Godfrey
continued her education at Duquesne University’s
School of Law and graduated with a Juris Doctor
degree in 1984. She completed the University of
Pittsburgh’s School of Law Trial Advocacy Program
in 1988. She practiced law at Weis & Weis, both
an associate and partner before becoming a partner
at Pietragallo, Gordon, Alfano, Bosick & Raspanti.
For her efforts, Godfrey has been listed as a Pennsylvania Super Lawyer and provided an AV Rating
Martindale Hubbell. She has won the American Jurisprudence Award in Civil Procedure and served as
the Allegheny County Bar Association Chair of the
Health Law Section. She is a Fellow of the Academy of Trial Lawyers of Allegheny County and on
the Board of Trustees for the Lower Burrell Church
of God. Godfrey also served her community on
the Cheswick Borough Council and Rachel Carson
Homestead Association Board of Directors. She has
excelled in her career, is respected by her peers, and
is committed to her community.
The District has a great history of successful
alumni. Not only do these individuals represent the
quality of education provided in the District, they
serve as role models for today’s students. Allegheny
Valley will soon begin its search for the next class of
alumni to be inducted. For more information, visit
the District’s web site at www.avsdweb.org.
Emergency Drill...continued from page 3
All SHS staff and students played a role in the drill,
testing the evacuation procedures of the plan. Student accountability and communication processes
were also evaluated. After the drill concluded, all
participants came together to talk through the exercise, ask questions, and receive clarifications.
Over the course of the week, drills and training
were also conducted in the elementary buildings.
Acmetonia Primary School began ALICE training
for students. The ALICE plan offers a different
philosophy than the traditional lockdown. In light
of more recent school violence, Allegheny Valley
has chosen to train staff and students in a variety of
responses to emergency situations. ALICE is one
of those responses. The student training was wellreceived by parents, staff, and students. The training
will continue during the 2015-16 school year.
Colfax Upper Elementary School tested procedures for reverse evacuation response. Adaptations
were made where necessary, with the procedures to
be written into the plan and drilled in all three buildings in upcoming months. These drills will be added
to the drill rotation approved in the District.
As always, Allegheny Valley extends its thanks
to all who participated in the drills and to all parents
and members of the community for their support.
13
Financial Update:
the 2015-2016 Budget
At their June 15 meeting, the Allegheny Valley School Board approved an operating budget
for the 2015-2016 school year. In the amount of
$20,866,140, this budget is an increase of 3.4% or
$693,896 over the 2014-15 budget. Local revenue
for this budget will be provided by a real estate tax
of 20.3494 mills, one half of 1% earned income tax,
one-half of 1% real estate transfer tax, and $5.00 local emergency service tax. The budget does not call
for a millage increase for residents.
Work on a budget begins months before it is approved. The process begins before school opens,
with suggested budgets from the various buildings and departments due to the business office in
December. Meetings and reviews on budget information are held, with presentations provided to the
Board on a monthly basis.
Other Financial Considerations
The District continues to explore cost containment
and revenue generating opportunities. With 75%
of the annual budget tied to salaries (41%), benefits
(25%), and debt service (9%). Administrators and
School Board Members continue to examine the
remaining 25% to see what items can be reduced
without affecting the educational program.
2015-2016 Final Budget
Expenditures By Object
Salaries41%
Employee Benefits
25%
Debt Service
9%
Purchased Professional &
Technical Services
6%
Transportation 5%
14
Supplies 5%
Repair/Maintenance
3%
Other Purchased Services
2%
Charter Schools
2%
Other/Fund Transfers Objects
1%
Equipment
1%
Superintendent’s Message...
continued from page 2 ly through intensive teacher professional development and classroom applications by the National
Science Foundation (NSF) $1.5 million grant project
involving the Junior-Senior High School, which
is being extended to include Colfax, as well as the
ABC CREATE $300,000 project networking the
Alle-Kiski Valley school districts through Penn State
New Kensington functioning as a Create Lab Satellite Network. This partnership centers on creative
robotics technologies as a natural tool for teaching
important concepts across the curriculum and in areas such as poetry and human anatomy, for example.
Important local partnerships, such as the Springdale Free Public Library and Dynamo Education
Foundation, are making a positive difference to
complement and expand STEAM learning and the
student program generally. Our Parent/Teacher
organizations at the elementary schools and the new
Parent Advisory at Springdale Junior-Senior High
School are critical to increasing communication
and collaboration between the home and school for
support that is necessary to meet the needs of all
students.
Plans underway for next school year as Allegheny
Valley continues to educate the “whole child” include: implementing Positive School-Wide Behavior programs; increasing the partnership with Family
Services of Western Pennsylvania in all schools; and
initiating a One-to-One Technology Pilot program,
beginning at the Junior-Senior High School, through
professional development for staff at the beginning
of the year with freshmen and sophomore student
participation starting second semester following an
orientation for their families. After-school programming through Art Expression will be expanded to include an optional session each semester in the three
schools. The program features a variety of STEAM
topics and was piloted over the past two years at
Colfax.
Flexibility and collaboration are at the core of
innovative programs in the Allegheny Valley School
District. And as the staff thinks differently to innovate and change for the right reasons, meeting the
needs of each student remains the top priority.
It has been a privilege and an honor to serve the
Allegheny Valley School District for more than
six years. In moving on to retirement from public education, I am confident that the partnerships
established will sustain and grow to foster continued
success for our students and the school
community.
Acmetonia Holds Family Reading Night
The Acmetonia Title I and library staff hosted their
annual Family Reading Night in March. Scheduled
as a culminating event to their Book Fair, the family
event is anticipated as an evening filled with activities for students and their families.
The theme of Dr. Seuss permeates the building as
rooms are open for activities encompassing reading, math, technology, and other subject areas. Staff
members run the various activities, including this
year: fishing in McEllicot’s Pool, family photos, and
art projects. Create U was open to introduce students and parents to the various materials available
in this room. Food items were also available in the
cafeteria and served by staff members.
The focus, however, remained on the Book Fair.
Held for years in the spring, the Fair provides the opportunity for appropriate books to be available to all
students for reading activities at home and at school.
For teachers and the library, the Book Fair enables
additional reading materials to be purchased for
student use. The more books purchased, the more
materials the school is able to receive.
This year, Acme’s Book Fair increased donations
to the All For Books program. With any donations
collected through this program, the school receives
that dollar amount in books. Scholastic then uses the
donation amount to give books and school resources
to schools and children in need through two nonprofit organizations: Kids in Distressed Situations,
Inc. and the Kids in Need Foundation.
Special thanks goes to the Acmetonia PTA, who
provided
funds to
purchase
a book for
every student
at Acmetonia Primary
School.
Students
participated in
activities during the Family
Reading Night
at Acmetonia
Primary
School.
Public Notices
Student Services:
All students in the Allegheny Valley School District have access to the following services which address students’ needs
throughout their District enrollment; school counseling, psychological services, health services, home and school visitor services, and social work services to support students in addressing academic, behavioral, health, personal, career and
social development issues.
Services for School Age Exceptional Children:
Allegheny Valley School District provides a free, appropriate, public education to exceptional students according to state
and federal mandates. To be eligible, the child must be of school age, need specially designed instruction, and meet eligibility criteria for mentally, gifted, and/or one or more of the following physical or mental disabilities as set forth in the
Pennsylvania State Standards:
• Autism
• Multiple disabilities • Emotional disturbance
• Deaf-blindness
• Orthopedic impairment • Speech or language impairment
• Deafness
• Other health impairment • Hearing impairment
• Developmental delay
• Specific learning disability • Visual impairment, including blindness
• Intellectual disability
• Traumatic brain injury
Services designed to meet the needs of eligible students include: annual development of an IEP, multidisciplinary re-evaluation, supportive intervention in the regular class, supplemental intervention in the regular school. The extent of special
education services and the location of the delivery of such services are determined by the parents/guardians and staff at
the IEP team meeting and are based on the student’s identified needs and abilities, chronological age, and level of intensity
of the specified intervention. The School District also provides related services such as transportation, physical therapy,
and occupational therapy that are required to enable the student to derive educational benefits. Prior to the initiation of
(continued on page 16)
Public Notices...continued from page 15 services parents/guardians are presented a “Notice of Recommended Educational Placement” (NOREP) with which they
may agree or disagree. If parents/guardians disagree with the program being recommended, they have the right to request
a pre-hearing conference, mediation, and/or due process hearing.
Independent Educational Evaluations:
Parents/guardians have the right to an Independent Educational Evaluation (IEE) at public expense if there is disagreement with an evaluation obtained by a district (34 CFR 300.503). However, the District may initiate a due process hearing
to show that its evaluation is appropriate. If the final decision is that the evaluation is appropriate, parents/guardians still
have the right to an IEE, but not at public expense.
Admission Of Service Animals To Schools:
A student or an employee with a disability may submit a request to bring service animal to school for educational or employment purposes. However, there is no automatic right to be accompanied by a service animal in the school setting.
Parents/Guardians of students with disabilities who believe the student needs to bring a service animal to school in order
to receive a free and appropriate public education, shall notify the building principal or the Section 504 or IEP team. The
appropriate team shall evaluate the request to use the service animal in school, gather necessary information, and determine whether the student requires the service animal during the school day or at school activities. Any service animal
accompanying a student with a disability to school or school activities shall be handled and cared for in a manner detailed
in the student’s IEP or Section 504 Service Agreement.
Services for Student in Nonpublic Schools:
Public special education is accessible to resident students attending nonpublic schools by permitting the nonpublic school
student to enroll on a part-time basis in a special education program operated in a public school. Special education programs are accessible to nonpublic school students through a dual enrollment following multidisciplinary evaluations and
development of an IEP. Parents/Guardians of nonpublic school students who suspect that their child is exceptional and in
need of special education may request multidisciplinary evaluations and development of an IEP. Parents/Guardians of non
public school students who suspect that their child is exceptional and in need of special education may request multidisciplinary evaluations of their child through a written request to the Director of Student Services.
Services for Protected Handicapped Students/504 Plans:
Allegheny Valley School District will provide to each protected handicapped student, without discrimination or cost to
the student or family, those related aides, services, or accommodations which are needed to provide equal opportunity
to participate in and obtain the benefits of the school programs and extracurricular activities to the extent appropriate to
the student’s abilities. To qualify as a protected handicapped student, the child must be of school age with a physical or
mental disability, which substantially limits or prohibits participation in, or access to an aspect of the school program.
Services and protections for protected handicapped students are different from those applicable to all eligible students
enrolled in special education programs. Additional information about the evaluation procedures and provision of services
to protected handicapped students are available by contacting the Special Education Director.
Services for Preschool Age Children:
Act 212, the Early Intervention System Act, entitles all preschool age children with disabilities to appropriate early
intervention services. Young children experiencing developmental delays or physical or mental disabilities are eligible
for early interventions services. The Pennsylvania Department of Welfare is responsible for providing services to infants
and toddlers, defined as children from birth through two years of age. For additional information please contact the Early
Learning Institute, 2500 Baldwich Road, Pittsburgh, PA 15205, or call (412) 837-1502. The Pennsylvania Department
of Education is responsible for providing services to preschool age children from age three through five. For additional
information contact Project DART, Allegheny Intermediate Unit, 475 East Waterfront Drive, Homestead, PA 15120, or
call (412) 394-5816.
Confidentiality of Student Records:
The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) affords parents and students over 18 years of age (“eligible
students”) certain rights with respect to the student’s education records. These rights are:
16
(continued on page 17)
Public Notices...continued from page 16 (1) The right to inspect and review the student’s education records within 45 days of the day the Allegheny Valley School District receives a request for access. Parents of eligible students should submit to the building principal, or
appropriate Allegheny Valley official, a written request that identifies the record(s) they wish to inspect. The school official will make arrangements for access and notify the parent or eligible student of the time and place where the records may be inspected.
(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. Parents or eligible
students who wish to ask Allegheny Valley to amend a record should write the school principal, or appropriate school official, clearly identify the part of the record they want changed, and specify why it should be changed. If Allegheny Valley decides not to amend the record as requested by the parent or eligible student, the school will notify the parent or eligible student of the decision and advise them of their right to a hearing regarding the request for amendment.
Additional information regarding the hearing procedures will be provided to the parent or eligible student when
notified of the right to a hearing.
(3) The right to privacy of personally identifiable information in 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 enforce ment unit personnel); a person serving on the School Board; a person or company with whom the school has out sourced services or functions it would otherwise use its own employees to perform (such as an attorney, auditor, medical consultant, or therapist); a parent or student serving on an official committee, such as a disciplinary or griev-
ance committee; or a parent, student, or other volunteer assisting another school official in performing his or her tasks. 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. Upon request, the Allegheny Valley School District discloses education records without consent to officials of another school district in which a student seeks or intends to enroll, or is already enrolled, if the disclosure is for purposes of the student’s enrollment or transfer.
(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, D.C. 20202-8520
With concern or to register a complaint, please contact:
Allegheny Valley School District
TBA, Special Education Director
English as a Second Language Instruction:
When registering their students at Allegheny Valley, all parents/guardians will be required to fill out a Home Language
Survey. Based upon the responses to this survey, those children who qualify will be referred for an “English Language
Learner Assessment.” The results of this assessment will determine if a student requires English as a Second Language
instruction. Parents/guardians may not opt their children out of English Language Learner Assessment or ESL instructions if found to be eligible.
Homeless Children:
Federal guidelines, as set forth in the No Child Left Behind Act of 2001, require that the local school identify children
who are experiencing homelessness. The federal mandate, and the intention of the Allegheny Valley School District, is
to ensure that homeless children and youth have access to free appropriate public education on an equal basis with other
children. Children who are experiencing homelessness, including those living with others in emergency situations, may
qualify for assistance with transportation, school lunch, tutoring, so that they can remain in their school of origin. If you
believe your child(ren) may qualify for these services, please contact the principal of your child(ren)’s school. You may
also contact Dana Farrand, Special Education Director, at 724-274-6500.
Free and Reduced Price Meals:
Through the National School Lunch Program, Allegheny Valley offers both free and reduced price meal plans for qualifying students. Registration forms and information are available from the Special Education Director, the Food
Service Director, or via the District web site.
17
Resources for Families:
Is my child growing and developing normally?
As parents/guardians, each of us undoubtedly asks this
question of ourselves at times. On one hand, we do not
want to be overly anxious parents and create problems
where none exist. On the other hand, research shows that
if there is a problem, the earlier the specialized help is
provided, the better the chance for remediation.
So, how do we really know if we should be concerned?
The following information about expected developmental
milestones and skills may assist parents/guardians in assessing this:
6 Months
Rolls from stomach, reaches for toy, transfers toy from
one hand to the other, looks for noise made near him/her,
makes sounds for specific reasons (hunger, wet), helps
hold bottle while drinking, plays with toes, pats mirror image, puts everything in his/her mouth, watches toys held in
front of him/her and moved slowly.
1 Year
Sits without support, pulls self to stand, crawls on all
fours, understand the meaning of No and Bye-bye, repeats
sounds made by others, feeds self cookies or crackers (may
not be neat), plays “pat-a-cake” or “peek-a-boo,” turns
pages of magazine or book (more than one at a time), picks
up small objects with thumb and index finger.
2 Years
Walks well walks up steps, two feet on a step, speaks
several words which are understandable and meaningful,
refers to self by name, recognizes self in mirror, feeds self
with spoon, drinks from a cup, occupies self in play, plays
with an adult (rolls ball to adult), builds a tower of four
blocks, puts two words together, shows body parts (eyes,
nose, toes) when asked.
go home,” undresses self, is toilet trained, helps adults by
putting away toys and clothes, turns pages one at a time,
recites nursery rhymes, imitates adults doing simple tasks.
4 Years
Tells stories, speaks clearly and can be understood by nonfamily members, dresses self with help, feeds self with
fork, washes face and hands, gets along with other children, balances on one foot, builds a tower of ten blocks,
copies a circle, matches some objects and colors.
5 Years
Hops on one foot, marches in time, catches a ball with his/
her hands, brushes his/her teeth, cares for all toilet needs,
follows two-step directions, points to shapes, names five
colors, copies a square/circle, counts to four; shares and
takes turns.
Signs of Physical, Sensory, Mental, Emotional
Disabilities
Some indications that your child may be a student with
a disability, in order to meet the first part of the two-part
definition, are:
• Difficulty performing tasks that require reading,
writing, or mathematics
• An emotional disturbance over a long period of time, which affects your child’s ability to learn
• Consistent problems in getting along with others
• Difficulty communicating
• Lack of interest, or ability in age-appropriate activities
• Resistance to change
• Difficulty seeing or hearing that interferes with the ability to communicate
• Health problems that affect educational performance, including attention problems.
3 Years
Walks up steps, one foot for each step, walks on tiptoes,
runs easily, unbuttons, unwraps candy, uses words to make
needs known, speaks in three-word sentences: “Mommy
Parents who have questions about their child’s development or disability may speak with their family physician or
health care provider, school district, or the Allegheny Intermediate Unit. With questions or concerns, please contact
the District’s Special Education Director.
A reminder that the District will not mail a Back-to-School
edition of AVENEWS. Information needed for the return
to school will be available on-line for parents and students.
This information includes: bus routes, cafeteria menus,
back-to-school details, and the Alumni Hall of Fame Nomination Form.
Additional information will be sent home
with students during the first few days of school.
If a parent or community member does not have access to the Internet, copies will be available in all building
offices in mid-August. An Activities Calendar will also be
on published on-line through the web site for the 20142015 school year. Individuals can access this information
by going to the District’s web site, www.avsdweb.org, and
clicking on the eNEWS tab, under menu on the left-hand
side.
Please Note:
18
Foundation Holds Soccer Reunion
Over the past year, the Dynamo Education Foundation
has concentrated on its goal to raise funds for classroom projects through its Grant Program. Funding for
the grants has come from a series of events and donations. The events are developed by the Foundation’s
Board of Directors to raise money while educating
individuals on the Foundation and its mission.
The latest fundraising event sponsored by the
Dynamo Education Foundation was an SHS Soccer
Reunion. Held to honor Coach Dave Meloni on his
2014 induction into the WPIAL Hall of Fame, the
Reunion brought over 50 alumni together to remember
their times on the SHS soccer field. The group was
divided into two teams coached by SHS alumni Doug
Matisz and Jeff Sheldon.
Leading off the day was a co-ed soccer game of
current SHS students. Boys’ Varsity Coach Cesareo
Sanchez and Girls’ Varsity Coach Jerry Concannon
lead the teams as they showcased their skills. Booster
groups added to the day’s events by sponsoring games
and activities for younger attendees.
A program to recognize Coach Meloni and his
achievements was held between the games. Master
of Ceremonies George Guido highlighted Meloni’s
career, noting his 1965 teams’ achievement of back-toback spring and fall WPIAL titles “will never happen again.” Childhood friend Don “Pappy” Boulton,
former player Dave Fortun, alumnus Paul Palo, and
School Board President Larry Pollick also provided
comments on Meloni’s career and legacy.
The alumni game highlighted the afternoon as the
two teams reminded all in attendance why soccer is
such an important part of Springdale High School
history. With the success of the Reunion, the Foundation’s Board is looking into making the program a
regular event.
“Alumni are a very important part of the Allegheny
Valley School District,” commented Foundation President Jim Caruso. “The Foundation appreciates their
support in giving back to the District, its staff, and its
students.”
For additional information or to make a donation,
please go to: http://www.avsdweb.org/pages/Allegheny_Valley_SD/Foundation
(top) Jeff Sheldon congratulates Coach Dave Meloni; (bottom)
Jeff Fitzgerald and Steve Rusek compete in the alumni game.
2015-16 Grants Announced
For the 2015-16 school year, the Dynamo Education
Foundation is proud to announce the awarding of
four grants to Allegheny Valley staff members:
Project 1: OSMO - Social Intelligence and Creative Thinking Using iPads. The project will integrate OSMO game systems to use with Colfax iPads. These systems allow students to interact with technology and engage in social and creative thinking. Staff recipients: Rebecca Bachman & Carla Lagattuta.
Project 2: Teaching Through Technology. The project will support classroom learning through iPad minis. Staff recipient: Hedy Mills.
Project 3: Hero Headquarters. The project will
create and redevelop the space in the current school gallery to use for meetings, group activi ties, and recognition activities. Staff recipient: Alexis Redman
Project 4: Growing Digital in Rachel’s Garden. The project will enable the purchase of Bluetooth enabled digital plant/soil monitors that will col lect data to utilize in various class activities. Staff recipient: Brett Slezak.
And Finally...
Unless otherwise noted, the Allegheny Valley Board of School
Directors conducts its Agenda Planning Sessions on the first
Tuesday of the month, with regular meetings held on the third
Monday of each month. The meetings begin at 7:00 p.m. and
are held in the Forum of the Acmetonia Primary School. (A
complete list of the meetings is located on the District’s web
site: www.avsdweb.org.)
The newsletter is published through the Public Relations Department of the Allegheny Valley School District. Comments
and inquiries pertaining to the newsletter should be sent to Ms.
Janice Zastawniak at [email protected] or 300 Pearl
Avenue, Cheswick, PA 15024.
The Allegheny Valley School District will not discriminate in
its education programs, activities, or employment practices,
based on race, color, national origin, gender, religion, ancestry,
disability, union membership, or any other legally protected
classification. Announcement of this policy is in accordance
with state and federal laws, including Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972, and sections 503 and 504 of the
Rehabilitation Act of 1973. Employees and others involved
with the District who have a complaint of discrimination or
harassment or require information about accommodations
for disabled individuals, should contact the superintendent of
schools by calling 724-274-5300 or writing and mailing a letter addressed to 300 Pearl Avenue, Cheswick, PA 15024.
Administration...
Cheryl A. Griffith, Ed.D.
Superintendent
Janice E. Nuzzo, Ed.D.
Director of Student Achievement
Michele A. Welter, Ed.D.
Springdale Jr-Sr High School Principal Christopher A. Protho, Ph.D.
Springdale Jr-Sr High School Assistant Principal Gregory J. Heavner
Elementary Supervisor/Transportation Director
Jennifer L. Vecchio
Colfax Upper Elementary School Principal Janice Zastawniak
Newsletter Editor/Public Relations Director
Board Of School Directors...
President
Larry Pollick
Vice President Glenna Renaldi
Treasurer
Kathleen Haas
Salvatore Conte, Jimette Gilmartin, Annetta Jursa,
Elizabeth Moretti, Antonio Pollino, Stephen P. Puskar
Secretary
Brad Rau
Solicitor
Matthew Hoffman, Esq.
Allegheny Valley School District
300 Pearl Avenue, Cheswick, PA 15024
Phone: 724/274-5300
Fax: 724/274-8040
www.avsdweb.org
Our Mission: The mission of the Allegheny Valley School District, a group of small traditional communities, is to educate
all students to achieve their maximum potential. A dedicated staff, in partnership with school, home, and community, will
empower students to become responsible and contributing citizens able to meet challenges in an international society.
Allegheny Valley
School District
300 Pearl Avenue
Cheswick, PA 15024
Nonprofit Org.
U.S. POSTAGE
PAID
PERMIT NO. 24
Springdale, PA
15144