ROSE TREE MEDIA SCHOOL DISTRICT
BOARD OF SCHOOL DIRECTORS
Legislative Agenda
December 18, 2014
7:30 p.m.
I.
Call to Order
II.
Approval of Minutes
A.
B.
III.
PSBA Certificate of Appreciation – William O’Donnell
Penncrest Chamber Ensemble and the Springton Lake Honor Strings
Reports
A.
B.
C.
D.
E.
F.
G.
VI.
Legislative Meeting Minutes of November 20, 2014
Reorganization Meeting Minutes of December 2, 2014
Educational Presentation
A.
V.
Roll Call
Presentations and Awards
A.
IV
Pledge of Allegiance
Student Liaison Reports
Board Liaison Reports
Committee Highlights and Reports
School Reports
Superintendent’s Report
Solicitor’s Report
President’s Report
Scheduled Presentations (Limited to Five Minutes Each)
A.
Agenda
RTMEA – Robert Higgins
1
December 18, 2014
VII.
Unscheduled Presentations (Limited to Three Minutes Each)
A.
VIII.
Old Business
A.
IX.
None
New Business
A.
B.
C.
D.
E.
I.
Rose Tree Media Residents
Personnel
1.
Terminations
a.
Professional
b.
Non-Instructional
2.
Nominations
a.
Professional
b.
Non-Instructional
3.
General
a.
Unpaid Leave of Absence
b.
Rescind Supplemental Contracts
c.
Supplemental Contracts
d.
Salary Correction
Overnight Trips
1.
Penncrest High School – PMEA District Band to Downingtown, PA
2.
Penncrest High School – PMEA District Chorus to Immaculata
Univeristy
Change to Penncrest Course Catalog
Proposed Book Adoptions for Springton Lake Middle School Language
Arts
Addendum – Personnel
1.
Terminations
2.
Nominations - None
Finance
A.
B.
C.
D.
Agenda
Purchasing
1.
None
General
1.
Change Orders
2.
Brain Show Contract
3.
Timothy School Contracts
4.
Elwyn-Davidson School Contract
5.
Oral Language Proficiency Assessment Contracts
Financials for November 2014
Bill Lists for November 2014
2
December 18, 2014
XII.
Adjournment
ANNOUNCEMENT
There will be an executive session of the School Board for matters of personnel at
6:30 p.m. prior to the Legislative Meeting of January 22, 2015, at Penncrest High
School. The Legislative Meetings are recorded on tape.
Agenda
3
December 18, 2014
Rose Tree Media School District
EXCELLENCE
TODAY
FOR TOMORROW
308 North Olive Street
Media, Pennsylvania 19063-2493
Telephone: 610-627-6136
Fax: 610-627-6136
www.rtmsd.org
Grace A. Eves
Director of Management Services
James M. Wigo, Sr.
Superintendent
To:
From:
Date:
Subject:
Members of the Board of School Directors
James Wigo, Superintendent
Grace A. Eves, Board Secretary
December 18, 2014
Minutes of the November 20, 2014 Legislative Meeting
I. Call to Order
Pledge of Allegiance
Roll Call
____________________________________________________________________________
Board Members in Attendance:
John Hanna, President
Tracy Barusevicius
Nancy Fronduti
Nancy Mackrides
William O’Donnell
Harry Postles
Elizabeth Schneider
Bill Tyson
Students:
Tanner Daggy
Allison D’Ignazio
Riley George (arrived at 7:40)
Michaela Rheil
Absent:
Absent:
Also in Attendance:
Eric Bucci, Principal GW
Anne Callahan, Dir. Human Resources
Eleanor DiMarino-Linnen, Dir.PS and Sp. Ed.
Donald DiPaulo, Asst. Principal SLMS
William Dougherty, Asst. Principal PHS
Grace Eves, Dir. Management Services
Rick Gregg, Principal PHS
Ron Harris, Network Specialist
Ralph Harrison. Asst. Principal PHS
Heather Hogan, Accountant
Mack Johnson, Mgmt. Systems Admin.
Thomas Kelly, Esq., Solicitor
Bonnie Kinsler, Supervisor of Transportation
Patti Linden, Supv. Technology
Jenny Robinson, Principal Rose Tree Elem.
Robert Salladino, Principal SLMS
Christine Seeley, Acting Principal IL
Sharon Sweeney, Asst. Principal PHS
Paula Voshell, Principal Media Elementary
Katherine White, Asst. Principal SLMS
James M. Wigo, Sr., Superintendent
II. Legislative Meeting Minutes of November 20, 2014
1
December 18, 2014
II.
Board of School Director Approval
A.
B.
New Board of School Director Approval – Susan Nolen
Swearing in of Susan Nolen, Board of School Director
Mrs. Fronduti moved and Mrs. Mackrides seconded a motion to adopt the following
resolution:
RESOLUTION: 2014 – 2015 34
Resolve, the Board of School Directors appoint Susan Nolen as a new member of
the Board of School Directors.
Ms. Nolen is replacing Linda Kinsler-Fox who resigned as of November 1, 2014.
Ms. Nolen’s term will expire in 2015. The Honorable Nicolas S. Lippincott, Esquire
administered the Oath of Office to Susan Nolen.
The aforementioned resolution was declared adopted by the Chair, the vote being:
AYES:
Tracy Barusevicius, Nancy Fronduti, John Hanna, Nancy Mackrides, Bill
O’Donnell, Harry Postles, Elizabeth Schneider and Bill Tyson
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
III.
Approval of Minutes
A.
Legislative Meeting Minutes of October 23, 2014
Mr. O’Donnell moved and Mr. Postles seconded a motion to adopt the following
resolution:
RESOLUTION: 2014 – 2015 35
Resolve, the Board of School Directors approve the Legislative Meeting Minutes of
October 23, 2014
The aforementioned resolution was declared adopted by the Chair, the vote being:
AYES:
Tracy Barusevicius, Nancy Fronduti, John Hanna, Nancy Mackrides, Bill
O’Donnell, Harry Postles, Elizabeth Schneider and Bill Tyson
NAYS: None
ABSENT: Susan Nolen
IV.
Presentations and Awards
A.
None
II. Legislative Meeting Minutes of November 20, 2014
2
December 18, 2014
V
Educational Presentation
A.
VI.
2014 Glenwood Community Day Election - Second Grade Team
Reports
A.
B.
C.
D.
E.
F.
Student Liaison Reports
Board Liaison Reports
Committee Highlights and Reports
School Reports - In Official Legislative Minutes of November 20, 2014
Superintendent’s Report - In Official Legislative Minutes of November 20, 2014
Solicitor’s Report - In Official Legislative Minutes of November 20, 2014
Mrs. Mackrides moved and Mr. O’Donnell seconded a motion to adopt the
following resolution:
RESOLUTION: 2014 – 2015 36
Resolve, the Board of School Directors appoint Grace Eves, Director of
Management Services, to serve as the District’s compliance officer for the
Municipal Continuing Disclosure Cooperation initiative.
The aforementioned resolution was declared adopted by the Chair, the vote being:
AYES:
Tracy Barusevicius, Nancy Fronduti, John Hanna, Nancy Mackrides, Bill
O’Donnell, Harry Postles, Elizabeth Schneider and Bill Tyson
NAYS: None
ABSENT: Susan Nolen
G.
VII.
Scheduled Presentations (Limited to Five Minutes Each)
A.
B.
VIII.
RTMEA – Bob Higgins
DeAnn Scherer - Celebrations and Concerns in RTM
Unscheduled Presentations (Limited to Three Minutes Each)
A.
IX.
President’s Report - In Official Legislative Minutes of November 20, 2014
Rose Tree Media Residents – 3 residents from Upper Providence Township, 1
resident from Middletown Township
Old Business
A.
None
II. Legislative Meeting Minutes of November 20, 2014
3
December 18, 2014
X.
New Business
A.
Personnel
1.
Terminations
a.
Professional
b.
Non-Instructional
2.
Nominations
a.
Professional
b.
Non-Instructional
Mr. Postles moved and Mrs. Fronduti seconded a motion to adopt the following
resolution:
RESOLUTION: 2014 – 2015 37
Resolve, the Board of School Directors approve the following New Business:
X.
New Business
A.
Personnel
1.
Terminations
a.
b.
Professional
1.
Susan Cooper, Language Arts Teacher, Springton Lake
Middle School, resignation effective January 23, 2015.
2.
Alicia Mathisen, Math Teacher, Penncrest High School,
resignation, effective January 5, 2015.
Non-Instructional
1.
2.
Arlene Silva, Bus Driver, retirement effective December 31,
2014. Ms. Silva joined the staff of Rose Tree Media School
District in 1994. She is retiring after 20 years of dedicated
service.
Nominations
a.
Professional
1.
Darlene Demarse. (.4) Special Education Teacher change of
effective date to November 3, 2014. Ms. Demarse is assigned
to Penncrest High School, Simon Youth Academy.
2.
Christiana Kuntz, PSAT Review Session Teacher at the rate of
$75.00 per session. Ms. Kuntz is assigned to Penncrest High
School.
II. Legislative Meeting Minutes of November 20, 2014
4
December 18, 2014
X.
New Business
A.
Personnel
2.
Nominations
a.
b.
Professional
3.
Alicia Mathisen, PSAT Review Session Teacher at the rate of
$75.00 per session. Ms. Mathisen is assigned to Penncrest
High School.
4.
Kathleen Sandiford, Reading Specialist, effective January 5,
2015 at the annual salary of $54,191.00, Master’s
Degree/Step 6 pro-rated. Ms. Sandiford received her
Bachelor’s and Master’s Degrees from Saint Joseph’s
University. She comes to us from Upper Darby School District
where she serves as a Reading Specialist. Ms. Sandiford is
assigned to Indian Lane Elementary replacing Judy DiMaio
who will be retiring. NOTE: MS. Sandiford is being hired
pending completion of her pre-employment paperwork.
Non-Instructional
1.
Julia Pickett, Support Staff II, effective November 21, 2014 at
the rate of $16.66 per hour. Ms. Pickett is assigned to
Penncrest High School. NOTE: Ms. Pickett is being hired
pending completion of her pre-employment paperwork.
2.
Steve Collins, Custodian, effective November 21, 2014 at the
rate of $17.62 per hour. Mr. Collins is assigned to Penncrest
High School replacing James McCusker who resigned. NOTE:
Mr. Collins is being hired pending completion of his preemployment paperwork.
3.
Lisa Malara, Substitute Cafeteria Worker effective September
23, 2014 at the rate of $10.98 per hour.
4.
Stephanie Beckett, Support Staff II, Personal Instructional
Assistant effective November 21, 2014 at the rate of $16.66
per hour. Ms. Beckett is assigned to Indian Lane Elementary.
NOTE: Ms. Beckett is being hired pending completion of her
pre-employment paperwork.
II. Legislative Meeting Minutes of November 20, 2014
5
December 18, 2014
X.
New Business
A.
Personnel
2.
Nominations
b.
Non-Instructional
5.
Kimberly Bostwick, Math Tutor for the 2014-2015 school year
at the rate of $16.00 per hour. Ms. Bostwick is assigned to
Media Elementary. NOTE: Ms. Bostwick is being hired
pending completion of her pre-employment paperwork.
6.
Kathryn McKeone, Support Staff II, Personal Instructional
Assistant, effective December 1, 2014, at the rate of $15.78
per hour. Ms. McKeone is assigned to Springton Lake Middle
School. This is a new position. NOTE: Ms. McKeone is being
hired pending completion of her pre-employment paperwork.
The aforementioned resolution was declared adopted by the Chair, the vote being:
AYES:
Tracy Barusevicius, Nancy Fronduti, John Hanna, Nancy Mackrides, Bill
O’Donnell, Harry Postles, Elizabeth Schneider and Bill Tyson
NAYS: None
ABSENT: Susan Nolen
X.
New Business
A.
Personnel
3.
General
a.
Classification Change
b.
Unpaid Leave of Absence
c.
Rescind Supplemental Contracts
d.
Supplemental Contracts
e.
Create New Position
f.
Other – Attachment A - In Official Legislative Minutes of November
20, 2014
Mrs. Mackrides moved and Mr. O’Donnell seconded a motion to adopt the
following resolution:
RESOLUTION: 2014 – 2015 38
Resolve, the Board of School Directors approve the following New Business:
II. Legislative Meeting Minutes of November 20, 2014
6
December 18, 2014
X.
New Business
A.
Personnel
3.
General
a.
Classification Change
1.
b.
Unpaid Leave of Absence
1.
c.
d.
Christine Cropper, from Substitute Cafeteria Worker to
Cafeteria Worker effective October 27, 2014 at the rate of
$11.54 per hour. Ms. Cropper is assigned to Penncrest High
School.
Amanda Slattery requests an unpaid leave of absence
effective January 26, 2015 through June 30, 2015 for the
purpose of child rearing.
Rescind Supplemental Contracts
1.
Rescind appointment of Andrew Radomicki as Boys Assistant
Freshman Basketball Coach for the 2014-2015 school year.
2.
Rescind appointment of Sarah Pettit as Girls Assistant
Freshman Basketball Coach for the 2014-2015 school year.
3.
Rescind appointment of Christa Consadene as Dance Team
Sponsor for the 2014-2015 school year.
4.
Rescind appointment of Stacy McMorrow as (.5) New Teacher
Mentor at Indian Lane Elementary.
Supplemental Contracts
1.
Tiffany Wheeler, Indoor Drumline for the 2014-2015 school
year at the annual salary of $1,450.00. Ms. Wheeler is
assigned to Penncrest High School. NOTE: MS. Wheeler is
being hired pending completion of her pre-employment
paperwork.
2.
Ryan Lewis, Intramural Sponsor for the 2014-2015 school
year at the rate of $21.26 per hour. Mr. Lewis is assigned to
Indian Lane Elementary.
3.
Jeffrey Leahan, Intramural Sponsor for the 2014-2015 school
year at the rate of $21.26 per hour. Mr. Leahan is assigned to
Indian Lane Elementary.
II. Legislative Meeting Minutes of November 20, 2014
7
December 18, 2014
X.
New Business
A.
Personnel
3.
General
d.
Supplemental Contracts
4.
Recommend Board approval of the following Penncrest High
School personnel to serve as Event Chaperones at the rate of
$55.00 per event:
Debbie Schnaars
Carolyn Fizzano
Emily Plummer
5.
Svitlana Duffy, Event Chaperone at the rate of $18.33 per
hour. Ms. Duffy is assigned to Penncrest High School.
6.
Recommend Board approval for the following personnel to
serve as New Teacher Mentors for the 2014-2015 school year:
Jeffrey Davies
Candace Krautzel
Erin Schievert
Maureen Shields
7.
$1,160.00
$1,160.00
$1,160.00
$ 580.00
Recommend correction of Supplemental Contract salaries for
the following:
Phoebe Simmington .5 Mentor
Jean McPheeters
KIDS Club
$ 608.00
$1,384.00
8.
Andrew Radomicki, (.66) Boys Assistant Basketball Coach at
the annual salary of $2,966.70. Mr. Radomicki is assigned to
Penncrest High School.
9.
Sean Spratt, (.34) Boys Assistant Basketball Coach at the
annual salary of $1,528.30. Mr. Spratt is assigned to
Penncrest High School.
10.
Sarah Pettit, Girls Assistant Basketball Coach at the annual
salary of $4,495.00. Ms. Pettit is assigned to Penncrest High
School.
11.
Timothy Brown, Boys Freshman Assistant Basketball Coach at
the annual salary of $3,915.00. Mr. Brown is assigned to
Penncrest High School.
II. Legislative Meeting Minutes of November 20, 2014
8
December 18, 2014
X.
New Business
A.
Personnel
3.
General
d.
Supplemental Contracts
12.
Quahsim Gredic, Boys Assistant Basketball Coach at the
annual salary of $4,495.00. Mr. Gredic is assigned to
Penncrest High School.
13.
Rick Stroup, Girls Assistant Basketball Coach at the annual
salary of $4,495.00. Mr. Stroup is assigned to Penncrest High
School.
14.
Kristen Manderachi, (.5) Girls Freshman Assistant Basketball
Coach at the annual salary of $1,957.50. Ms. Manderachi is
assigned to Penncrest High School.
15.
Eileen Hunger, (.5) Girls Freshman Assistant Basketball
Coach at the annual salary of $1957.50. Ms. Hunger is
assigned to Penncrest High School.
16.
Christa Consadene, (.5) Dance Team Sponsor at the annual
salary of $608.00. Ms. Consadene is assigned to Penncrest
High School.
17.
Lindsay Podsobinski, (.5) Dance Team Sponsor at the annual
salary of $580.00. Ms. Podsobinski is assigned to Penncrest
High School.
18.
Sharon Williams, Game worker for the 2014-2015 school year.
Ms. Williams is assigned to Penncrest High School.
19.
Melissa Finsterbusch, Game Worker for the 2014-2015 school
year.
20.
Gina Lucente, Assistant Winter Cheerleading Coach for the
2014-2015 school year at the annual salary of $2,755.00. Ms.
Lucente is assigned to Penncrest High School. NOTE: Ms.
Lucente is being hired pending completion of her preemployment paperwork.
21.
Sean Graham, (.8) Assistant Wrestling Coach for the 20142015 school year only at the annual salary of $3,596.00. Mr.
Graham is assigned to Penncrest High School.
II. Legislative Meeting Minutes of November 20, 2014
9
December 18, 2014
X.
New Business
A.
Personnel
3.
General
e.
Create New Position
1.
f.
Recommend Board approval to create a new (.8) Assistant
Wrestling Coach at Penncrest High School for the 2014-2015
school year only. Due to high participation this school year, an
additional coach is required.
Other
1.
Resolve, the Board of School Directors approve an annual
performance bonus in the amount of $10,000 for
Superintendent James M. Wigo, Sr. for the 2013-2014 school
year. The bonus is being awarded in accordance with Mr.
Wigo's contract.
Further resolve, the Board of School Directors approve the
contract between the Rose Tree Media School District and
James M. Wigo, Sr., Superintendent of Schools, for the period
July 1, 2015 through June 30, 2020. Attachment A - In Official
Legislative Minutes of November 20, 2014.
The aforementioned resolution was declared adopted by the Chair, the vote being:
AYES:
Tracy Barusevicius, Nancy Fronduti, John Hanna, Nancy Mackrides, Bill
O’Donnell, Harry Postles, Elizabeth Schneider and Bill Tyson
NAYS: None
ABSENT: Susan Nolen
X.
New Business
B.
C.
Rose Tree Media Comprehensive Plan for 2015-2018
Rose Tree Media Comprehensive Plan as per Chapter 4
Mr. O’Donnell moved and Mrs. Fronduti seconded a motion to adopt the following
resolution:
RESOLUTION: 2014 – 2015 39
Resolve, the Board of School Directors approve the following New Business:
II. Legislative Meeting Minutes of November 20, 2014
10
December 18, 2014
X.
New Business
B.
Rose Tree Media Comprehensive Plan for 2015-2018
Resolve, the Board of School Directors approve the Rose Tree Media
Comprehensive Plan for 2015-2018. Chapter 4 regulations no longer require the
submission of a strategic plan. Instead, they require the submission of five reports,
which have been presented in a separate resolution for Board approval. The
district has gone above and beyond the required reports by crafting a
Comprehensive Plan for 2015-2018 with Goals, Strategies, Implementation Steps,
Indicators of Effectiveness, and a Timeline. This Plan was created between April
2014 and October 2014 by a wide range of stakeholders. It was presented and
discussed at the November 11, 2014
C.
Rose Tree Media Comprehensive Plan Reports as per Chapter 4
Resolve, the Board approve the required Comprehensive Plan reports as per
Chapter 4 regulations: Gifted, Induction, Professional Education and Student
Services. Each school district in Pennsylvania is required under new Chapter 4
regulations to submit five reports to the Pennsylvania Department of Education
every three or six years. The Special Education plan was already approved last
spring. RTM’s reports were created between April 2014 and October 2014 by a
wide range of stakeholders. Each of these reports follows a template provided by
PDE. They were presented and discussed at the October 14, 2014 Curriculum &
Instruction Committee meeting, and were available for public review and comment
from October 24 until November 20.
The aforementioned resolution was declared adopted by the Chair, the vote being:
AYES:
Tracy Barusevicius, Nancy Fronduti, John Hanna, Nancy Mackrides, Bill
O’Donnell, Harry Postles, Elizabeth Schneider and Bill Tyson
NAYS: None
ABSENT: Susan Nolen
II. Legislative Meeting Minutes of November 20, 2014
11
December 18, 2014
XI.
Finance
A.
B.
Purchasing
1.
None
General
1.
Change Orders
2.
Budgetary Transfers
3.
2013/2014 Local Audit
4.
MTI Productions Contract
5.
Tax Exemption/Refund
6.
Air and Gas Technologies Contract
7.
Vanguard School Tuition Contract
Mr. O’Donnell moved and Mr. Postles seconded a motion to adopt the following
resolution:
RESOLUTION: 2014 – 2015 40
XI.
Finance
A.
Purchasing - None
B.
General
1.
Change Orders
Change Orders are acted upon in accordance with Resolution 1997-98 –
124, as approved by the School Board of Directors on April 23, 1998.
Resolve, that the Board of School Directors approve the following change
orders:
a.
Change Order GC-09 from ER Stuebner in the amount of $40,348.00
for the Warko roof in the music suite and auditorium at Springton
Lake Middle School.
b.
Change Order GC-10 from ER Steubner in the amount of $29,797.68
for additional paving repairs at Springton Lake Middle School.
c.
Change Order FP-05 from Wayman Fire Protection is a credit in the
amount of $2,900.00 for window repair work that was a result of the
contractor at Media Elementary.
d.
Change Order GC-02 from Window Repair and Restoration in the
amount of $2,900.00 which is for the window repair work at Media
Elementary.
II. Legislative Meeting Minutes of November 20, 2014
12
December 18, 2014
XI.
Finance
B.
General
2.
Budgetary Transfers
Rose Tree Media School District Policy #612…(Public School code section
609) when funds are not available for a proposed appropriation, a legal
transfer from one class of expenditure to another may be made in the last
nine (9) months of the fiscal year by the board.
Further resolve, that the Board of School Directors approve the following
budgetary transfers:
FY 15-8 Fund 10 General Fund
FROM:
AMOUNT:
Special Education- Professional Educational Services
$9,027
TO:
AMOUNT:
Special Education- Travel
$9,027
RATIONALE: Transfer needed for Wilson training and certification of special
education teachers.
FY 15-9 Fund 10 General Fund
FROM:
AMOUNT:
Operation of Building Services – Supplies
$5,500
TO:
AMOUNT:
Operation of Building Services – Repairs and Maintenance
$5,500
RATIONALE: Transfer needed to cover the cost of the purchase and
installation of corridor tackboards for Springton Lake Middle
School.
II. Legislative Meeting Minutes of November 20, 2014
13
December 18, 2014
XI.
Finance
B.
General
2.
Budgetary Transfers (continued)
FY 15-10 Fund 10 General Fund
FROM:
AMOUNT:
Curriculum & Instructional Development – Supplies
$3,000
TO:
AMOUNT:
Instruction- Books
$3,000
RATIONALE: Transfer needed to additional classroom books.
FY 15-11 Fund 10 General Fund
FROM:
AMOUNT:
Instruction – Supplies
$2,640
TO:
AMOUNT:
Instruction- New Equipment
$2,640
RATIONALE: Transfer needed to cover the cost of an additional message
display board for Springton Lake Middle School.
FY 15-12 Fund 10 General Fund
FROM:
AMOUNT:
School Sponsored Student Activities – Meals & Refreshments
$1,700
TO:
AMOUNT:
Instruction – Meals & Refreshments
$1,700
RATIONALE: Transfer needed to cover the cost of academic excellence
banquet.
3.
2013/2014 Local Audit
Further resolve, the Board of School Directors approve the 2013/2014 Local
Audit report which contained no observations or findings. This report was
presented by Pam Baker and Jeff Kowalczyk from Barbacane, Thornton &
Company.
II. Legislative Meeting Minutes of November 20, 2014
14
December 18, 2014
XI.
Finance
B.
General
4.
MTI Productions Contract
Further resolve, the Board of School Directors approve the MTI Productions
Contract in the amount of $2,325.00 for the spring musical at Penncrest
High School. Funding is through the student activity account and is at no
cost to the district.
5.
Tax Exemption/Refund
Further resolve, the Board of School Directors approve the refund of the
school real estate taxes for the 2013/2014 and 2014/2015 school years.
The District received a disabled veterans tax exemption certificate which
entitled the taxpayer to the refund.
6.
Air and Gas Technologies Contract
Further resolve, the Board of School Directors approve the Air and Gas
Technologies Contract for monthly preventative maintenance inspection
services of the CNG system.
7.
Vanguard School Tuition Contract
Further resolve, the Board of school directors approve a tuition contract for
a student to attend the Vanguard School for the 2014-2015 school year.
The tuition rate for the 2014-2014 school year is $49,115.00. The student
requires placement at the Vanguard School for the delivery of their special
education program in accordance with IDEA.
The aforementioned resolution was declared adopted by the Chair, the vote being:
AYES:
Tracy Barusevicius, Nancy Fronduti, John Hanna, Nancy Mackrides, Bill
O’Donnell, Harry Postles, Elizabeth Schneider and Bill Tyson
NAYS: None
ABSENT: Susan Nolen
II. Legislative Meeting Minutes of November 20, 2014
15
December 18, 2014
XI.
Finance
C.
D.
Financials for October 2014
Bill Lists for October 2014
Mrs. Mackrides moved and Mr. O’Donnell seconded a motion to adopt the
following resolution:
RESOLUTION: 2014 – 2015 41
Resolve, the Board of School Directors approve the following Finance Reports:
XI.
Financial Reports & Bill Lists
C.
D.
Financial Reports
October
2014
Treasurers Reports
October
2014
Investment Reports
October
2014
Summary Expenditure Status Report
October
2014
Revenue Status Report
Bill Lists
October 2014
General Fund Bill List
$ 3,644,607.16
October 2014
Imprest Fund Bill List
$
10,096.00
October 2014
Capital Fund Bill List
$
799,415.27
October 2014
Bond Series 2011 Bill List
$
19,236.00
October 2014
Activities/Special Revenue Fund
$
18,996.41
$ 4,492,350.84
The aforementioned resolution was declared adopted by the Chair, the vote being:
AYES:
Tracy Barusevicius, Nancy Fronduti, John Hanna, Nancy Mackrides, Bill
O’Donnell, Harry Postles, Elizabeth Schneider and Bill Tyson
NAYS: None
ABSENT: Susan Nolen
II. Legislative Meeting Minutes of November 20, 2014
16
December 18, 2014
XII.
Adjournment
Mrs. Mackrides moved and Mr. O’Donnell seconded a motion to adopt the
following resolution:
RESOLUTION: 2014 – 2015 42
Resolve, there being no further business to come before the Board of School
Directors, the meeting was adjourned.
The aforementioned resolution was declared adopted by the Chair, the vote being:
AYES:
Tracy Barusevicius, Nancy Fronduti, John Hanna, Nancy Mackrides, Bill
O’Donnell, Harry Postles, Elizabeth Schneider and Bill Tyson
NAYS: None
ABSENT: Susan Nolen
_____________________________
Grace A. Eves
School Board Secretary
II. Legislative Meeting Minutes of November 20, 2014
17
December 18, 2014
Rose Tree Media School District
EXCELLENCE
TODAY
FOR TOMORROW
308 North Olive Street
Media, Pennsylvania 19063-2493
Telephone: 610-627-6136
Fax: 610-627-6136
www.rtmsd.org
Grace A. Eves
Director of Management Service
James M. Wigo, Sr.
Superintendent
To:
From:
Date:
Subject:
Members of the Board of School Directors
James Wigo, Superintendent
Grace A. Eves, Board Secretary
December 12, 2014
Minutes of the December 2, 2014 Reorganization Meeting
I. Call to Order
Pledge of Allegiance
Roll Call
__________________________________________________________________________
Board Members in Attendance: Tracy Barusevicius, Nancy Fronduti, John Hanna, Nancy
Mackrides, Susan Nolen, William O’Donnell, Harry Postles, Elizabeth Schneider and Bill
Tyson
Absent:
Also in Attendance: Anne Callahan, Grace Eves, Tom Kelly, Patti Linden, Steve Taylor
and James M. Wigo, Sr.
__________________________________________________________________________
II.
The Board is meeting this day for the purpose of reorganization under the appropriate
sections of Article IV of the School Laws of Pennsylvania as amended.
III.
The Board Secretary will read the list of legally elected and qualified School Board
Members and the expirations of their terms:
Tracy Barusevicius
Nancy Fronduti
John Hanna
Nancy Mackrides
Susan Nolen
William O’Donnell
Harry Postles
Elizabeth Schneider
Bill Tyson
December 2017
December 2015
December 2015
December 2017
December 2015
December 2015
December 2017
December 2015
December 2015
II. Reorganization Meeting Minutes of December 2, 2014
1
December 18, 2014
IV.
Nominations for Temporary President
Mr. Hanna moved and Mr. O’Donnell seconded a motion to adopt the following
resolution:
RESOLUTION: 2014 – 2015 43
Resolve, that Nancy Mackrides be nominated as temporary President.
The aforementioned resolution was declared adopted by the chair, the vote being:
AYES:
NAYS:
ABSENT:
V.
Tracy Barusevicius, Nancy Fronduti, John Hanna, Nancy Mackrides,
Susan Nolen, William O’Donnell, Harry Postles, Elizabeth Schneider
and Bill Tyson
None
None
Nominations for President
Mrs. Schneider moved and Mr. Postles seconded a motion to adopt the following
resolution:
RESOLUTION: 2014 – 2015 44
Resolve, that John Hanna be nominated as President for the ensuing year.
The aforementioned resolution was declared adopted by the chair, the vote being:
AYES:
NAYS:
ABSTAIN:
VI.
John Hanna, Nancy Mackrides, Susan Nolen, William O’Donnell, Harry
Postles, Elizabeth Schneider and Bill Tyson
None
Tracy Barusevicius and Nancy Fronduti
Nominations for Vice President
Mr. Hanna moved and Mrs. Schneider seconded a motion to adopt the following
resolution:
RESOLUTION: 2014 – 2015 45
Resolve, that Bill O’Donnell be nominated as Vice-President for the ensuing year.
The aforementioned resolution was declared adopted by the chair, the vote being:
AYES:
NAYS:
ABSENT:
Tracy Barusevicius, Nancy Fronduti, John Hanna, Nancy Mackrides,
Susan Nolen, William O’Donnell, Harry Postles, Elizabeth Schneider
and Bill Tyson
None
None
II. Reorganization Meeting Minutes of December 2, 2014
2
December 18, 2014
VII.
Appointment of Solicitor
Mrs. Fronduti moved and Mr. Postles seconded a motion to adopt the following
resolution:
RESOLUTION: 2014 – 2015 46
Resolve, the Board of School Directors approve Tom Kelly, from Kelly, Grimes,
Pietrangelo and Vakil, as the District Solicitor for the ensuing year. The solicitor’s
retainer fee will be $7,200 and the hourly fee will be $150.
The aforementioned resolution was declared adopted by the chair, the vote being:
AYES:
NAYS:
ABSENT:
Tracy Barusevicius, Nancy Fronduti, John Hanna, Nancy Mackrides,
Susan Nolen, William O’Donnell, Harry Postles, Elizabeth Schneider
and Bill Tyson
None
None
VIII. Committee Chairman and Liaison Assignments
The following Committee Chairman and Liaison assignments are as follows:
Committee
Curriculum and Instruction
Technology
Pupil Services
Personnel
Operations
Finance
DCCC
DCIU
DCIU Legislative
Chairman/Liaison
Elizabeth Schneider
Susan Nolen
Nancy Fronduti
Tracy Barusevicius
Harry Postles
Bill O’Donnell
Bill Tyson
Nancy Mackrides
Susan Nolen
All Committees are a committee of the entire Board
IX.
Other Business
A.
Approval of Bus Bid Opening Minutes
Mr. O’Donnell moved and Mrs. Mackrides seconded a motion to adopt the following
resolution:
RESOLUTION: 2014 – 2015 47
Resolve, the Board of School Directors approve the Bus Bid Opening Minutes.
AYES:
Tracy Barusevicius, Nancy Fronduti, John Hanna, Nancy Mackrides,
Susan Nolen, William O’Donnell, Harry Postles, Elizabeth Schneider
and Bill Tyson
NAYS:
None
ABSENT:
None
II. Reorganization Meeting Minutes of December 2, 2014
3
December 18, 2014
IX.
Other Business
B.
Results of Bus Bid
The results of the Bus Bid was discussed.
C.
Bus Bid Awards
Mr. O’Donnell moved and Mrs. Schneider seconded a motion to adopt the following
resolution:
RESOLUTION: 2014 – 2015 48
Resolve, the Board of School Directors approve the following bids be awarded in the
categories listed, such recommendation being the lowest bid received from a
responsible bidder, kind, quality and materials having been considered.
X.
1.
Seven (7) 72 Passenger, CNG Rear Engine, Type “D” School Buses to
Rohrer Bus Sales in the amount of $956,943.00
2.
Five (5) 60 Passenger, CNG Rear Engine, Type “D” School Buses to
Rohrer Bus Sales in the amount of $679,105.00
3.
One (1) 48 Passenger Conventional School Bus with Wheelchair lift and
Air Conditioning to Rohrer Bus Sales in the amount of $95,398.00
Adjournment
Mr. Postles moved and Mrs. Mackrides seconded a motion to adopt the following
resolution:
RESOLUTION: 2014 – 2015 49
Resolve, there being no further business to come before the Board of School
Directors, the meeting was adjourned.
The aforementioned resolution was declared adopted by the chair, the vote being:
AYES:
NAYS:
ABSENT:
Tracy Barusevicius, Nancy Fronduti, John Hanna, Nancy Mackrides,
Susan Nolen, William O’Donnell, Harry Postles, Elizabeth Schneider
and Bill Tyson
None
None
_____________________________
Grace A. Eves
School Board Secretary
II. Reorganization Meeting Minutes of December 2, 2014
4
December 18, 2014
ROSE TREE MEDIA SCHOOL DISTRICT
BID OPENING MINUTES
A bid opening was held on November 24, 2014 at 2:00 p.m. in the Education Center,
308 North Olive Street, Media, PA 19063.
Present were: Grace Eves, Heather Hogan, Phil Quinzi and three bidders.
Bids in the following category were opened and read by Grace Eves:
•
•
•
Seven (7) 72 Passenger, CNG Rear Engine, Type “D” School Buses Five (5) 60 Passenger, CNG Rear Engine, Type “D” School Buses
One (1) 48 Passenger Conventional School Bus with Wheelchair lift and
Air Conditioning
M.A. Brightbill Body Works, Inc.
Lebanon, PA
Rohrer Bus Sales
Duncannon, PA
Wolfington Body Company
Exton, PA
Bids will be tabulated and presented to the Board of School Directors.
_________________________
Grace A. Eves
Board Secretary
IX. Bus Bid Opening Minutes
1
November 24, 2014
ROSE TREE MEDIA SCHOOL DISTRICT
BOARD OF SCHOOL DIRECTORS
Reorganization Meeting Agenda
Education Center
December 2, 2014
6:30 p.m.
Bus Bid Award
Resolve, the Board of School Directors approve the following bids be awarded in
the categories listed, such recommendation being the lowest bid received from a
responsible bidder, kind, quality and materials having been considered.
•
Seven (7) 72 Passenger, CNG Rear Engine, Type “D” School
Buses to Rohrer Bus Sales in the amount of $956,943.00 •
Five (5) 60 Passenger, CNG Rear Engine, Type “D” School Buses
to Rohrer Bus Sales in the amount of $679,105.00
•
One (1) 48 Passenger Conventional School Bus with Wheelchair lift
and Air Conditioning to Rohrer Bus Sales in the amount of
$95,398.00
Reorganization Agenda
1
December 2, 2014
III.
Presentations and Awards
A.
PSBA Certificate of Appreciation – William O’Donnell
The Board of Directos of the Pennsylvania School Board
Asociation proudly presents this Crtificate of Appreciation to School
Director William O’Donnell, from the Rose Tree Media School
District, in recognition of the unique role of School Board service
and the long-term contributions of individuals who bring their
energy, talent and values to the guidance of youth and public
education in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania.
III.
Presentations and Awards
1
December 18, 2014
OFFICE OF CURRICULUM & INSTRUCTION
TO:
Members of the Board of School Directors
Mr. James M. Wigo, Superintendent of Schools
FROM:
Dr. Steve Taylor, Assistant Superintendent for Curriculum & Instruction
DATE:
December 2, 2014
RE:
December 2, 2014 Curriculum & Instruction Committee Meeting Minutes
Chairperson: Mrs. Liz Schneider
Board Members in Attendance: Tracy Barusevicius, Nancy Fronduti, John Hanna,
Sue Nolen, Bill O’Donnell, Harry Protzman, Liz Schneider, Bill Tyson
Also in Attendance: Anne Callahan, Grace Eves, Patti Linden, Steve Taylor, Jim Wigo,
and one member of the community.
Oral Proficiency Assessors’ Contracts
Dr. Taylor asked permission for a resolution to appear on the December Legislative
Agenda to approve contracts for oral proficiency assessors, who assess the speaking
skills of students in AP French, AP Spanish, and Chinese IV at the end of the school
year. The assessments occur through one-on-one interviews. The contracts set the
cost of each interview at $20 and cap the total number of interviews at 68. Funding for
the interviews comes from the Office of Curriculum & Instruction budget. Using these
university-based assessors not only provides an effective quality control at the end of
the program, but also promotes collaboration with Immaculata, Penn State, and West
Chester University.
Action: This item will be placed on the December 18, Legislative agenda for a vote of
the Board of School Directors.
Proposed Book Adoptions for Springton Lake Middle School Language Arts
Dr. Taylor asked permission for a resolution to appear on the December Legislative
Agenda to approve books to be used by the Springton Lake Language Arts Department
during the 2014-2015 school year. As a result of the schedule change at the middle
school and the curriculum revision cycle, the Language Arts Department is moving
towards an instructional model that incorporates a combination of whole-class book
studies along with a Reading Workshop model to promote independent reading and
provide students opportunities to read at their own levels. The proposed books would
be used during the Reading Workshop portion, when students are reading
independently or in book clubs, rather than as whole-class reads. The proposed books
are Gathering Blue, The Maze Runner, Chains, My Brother Sam is Dead, Lincoln’s
Grave Robbers, Between Shades of Gray, Snow Flower and the Secret Fan, The
President Has Been Shot: The Assassination of John F. Kennedy, Girl With the
Pearl Earring, The Guernsey Library and Potato Peel Pie Society, and Moloka’i.
Action: This item will be placed on the December 18, Legislative agenda for a vote of
the Board of School Directors.
EXCELLENCE
TODAY
FOR TOMORROW
Rose Tree Media School District
308 North Olive Street
Media, Pennsylvania 19063-2493
Telephone: 610-627-6136
Fax: 610-627-6136
www.rtmsd.org
Grace A. Eves
Director of Management Services
James M. Wigo, Sr.
Superintendent
To:
Members of the Board of School Directors
James M. Wigo, Superintendent
From:
Grace A. Eves, Director of Management Services
Date:
December 4, 2014
Subject:
December 2, 2014 Finance Committee Minutes
Chairperson: Bill O’Donnell
______________________________________________________________________
Attendance: Tracy Barusevicius, Nancy Fronduti, John Hanna, Sue Nolen, Bill
O’Donnell, Harry Postles, Elizabeth Schneider and Bill Tyson
Absent: Nancy Mackrides
Also in Attendance: Anne Callahan, Grace Eves, Patti Linden, Steve Taylor and
James Wigo,
1.
Contracts
The Brain Show contract is for an assembly at Media Elementary School. The
amount of the contract is $1,650. Funding is by the PTG and is at no cost to the
District.
Action: This item will be moved to the December 18, Legislative agenda for a
vote of the Board.
2.
Budgetary Summary Comparison Report
3.
2015/2016 Revenue Budget
Mr. O’Donnell reviewed the 2015/2016 revenue budget.
•
•
•
The Act 1 Index is 1.9% for the District. The Index is comprised of the
average of the percent of increase of the Statewide Average Weekly Wage,
SAWW, and the Employment Cost Index, ECI. The revenue budget is based
on a 1.9% increase at this time. For 8 of the past 9 years the tax increase has
been at or below the Index. The District used a portion of the Special
Education exception for the 2008/2009 fiscal year.
Each on tenth of one percent of tax increase is equal to approximately
$60,000.
Assessment value has been reduced by approximately $26 million. The
majority of the reduction in assessment is due to the Granite Run Mall tax
Dedicated to Excellence
•
•
•
•
appeal. The new assessment amount will generate approximately $650,000
of revenue over the current fiscal year.
The Assessment by Property Type pie chart represents property types as of
January of 2014. Almost 15%of the assessed value is tax exempt as a result
of schools, churches, county and state property. The majority of revenue
producing assessment is from commercial and residential properties.
Commercial properties have the advantage of generating revenue without the
cost of adding students.
o The average residential assessment is $$206,875
o The average residential tax bill is $4,925
o The annual increase at 1.9% is $91 or $7.58 per month
Local revenue
o Real estate revenue increased by approximately 1.2% with a 1.9%
increase in millage.
o There are several new housing developments in various phases of
completion for interim taxes.
o The decrease in tuition is due to a decrease in enrollment for Elwyn
and the Detention Center. The District is required to provide
educational services for students at the Detention Center and Elwyn
because they are located within the District. The District bills the home
districts of those students.
o Local revenue increase by 1.2%
o Total local revenue represents 83% of all revenues
State revenue
o The decrease in Building Reimbursement is due the retirement of debt
for the renovations at Penncrest High School in 1999 for which we
received reimbursement.
o Increases in Social Security and Retirement are a result in the increase
in salaries and the retirement rate increasing from 20.4% to 24.8 %.
The District receives 50% reimbursement for both expenditures.
o State revenue increased by 8.21%
o State revenue represents 16.6% of all revenues
Federal revenue
o There is a decrease in Title I funding as a result of Federal funding.
o Federal revenue decreased by 5.5%
o Federal revenue represents .4% of all revenue
Action: Discussion
Public Comment: One member of the public was present.
The next Finance Committee meeting will be on Tuesday, January 13, 2015
Dedicated to Excellence
EXCELLENCE
TODAY
FOR TOMORROW
Rose Tree Media School District
308 North Olive Street
Media, Pennsylvania 19063-2493
Telephone: 610-627-6136
Fax: 610-627-6136
www.rtmsd.org
Grace A. Eves
Director of Management Services
James M. Wigo, Sr.
Superintendent
To:
Members of the Board of School Directors
James M. Wigo, Superintendent
From:
Grace A. Eves, Director of Management Services
Date:
December 4, 2014
Subject:
December 2, 2014 Operations Committee Minutes
Chairperson: Elizabeth Schneider
_____________________________________________________________________
Attendance: Tracy Barusevicius, Nancy Fronduti, John Hanna, Sue Nolen, Bill
O’Donnell, Harry Postles, Elizabeth Schneider and Bill Tyson
Absent: Nancy Mackrides
Also in Attendance: Ron Baldino, Anne Callahan, Dennis Cinni, Grace Eves, Patti
Linden, Steve Taylor and James Wigo,
1.
Capital Project Updates
The majority of the 2014/2015 capital projects have been completed.
circulation desk in the Library at Media Elementary School is completed.
The
Action: Discussion
2.
Change Orders
There is a change order in the amount of $3,144.44 for the boilers at Indian
Lane. The change order is due to the replacement of a gas regulator.
Action: This item will be placed on the December 18, Legislative agenda for a
vote of the Board of School Directors.
3.
Master Capital Plan Update
Ron Baldino, Dennis Cinni and Grace Eves have begun meeting with building
principals and facility foremen to review the 2007 master plan. The results of
these meetings will be used to update the master plan. There are ten new
housing developments in various stages of approval in the four municipalities that
encompass the District. These developments may be completed in the next five
to seven years. There are approximately 1,606 proposed new housing units.
Using a formula from the District’s projected enrollment system these units could
Dedicated to Excellence
bring approximately 400 new students to the District. The administration will
contact three vendors to investigate the cost of doing a demographic study to
gain better insight into the potential growth. Mr. O’Donnell has requested that the
administration contact the local municipalities concerning the study. It may also
be necessary to do a building utilization study once the results of the
demographic study are available.
Action: Discussion
4. CNG Buses
NGV Motori has been on site making adjustments to the converted CNG buses.
Each bus is uniquely built and adjustments have been made to improve
performance.
Action: Discussion
Public Comment: There were no members of the public present.
The next Operations Committee meeting will be on Tuesday, January 13, 2015
Dedicated to Excellence
EXCELLENCE
TODAY
FOR TOMORROW
James M. Wigo, Sr.
Superintendent of Schools
Rose Tree Media School District
308 North Olive Street
Media, Pennsylvania 19063-2493
Telephone: 610.627.6000
Fax: 610-891-0959
www.rtmsd.org
Anne D. Callahan
Director of Human Resources
To:
Members of the Board of School Directors
James M. Wigo, Sr., Superintendent
From:
Anne D. Callahan, Director of Human Resources
Date:
December 5, 2014
Subject:
Minutes of Personnel Committee Meeting – December 2, 2014
Tracy Barusevicius, Chair
Board Members in attendance: J. Hanna, W. O’Donnell, E. Schneider, S. Nolen,
T. Barusevicius, H. Postles, W. Tyson, N. Fronduti
Also in attendance: A. Callahan, J. Wigo, G. Eves, S. Taylor, P. Linden, One
member of the public
I.
Items for Legislative Meeting – Anne Callahan
The Committee reviewed the items for the December legislative meeting. A
question was asked about a coach/Athletic Director who is a retired teacher.
Mrs. Callahan explained that we have been unable to find anyone to perform
these duties and we asked the retired teacher to come back to fill in.
Action: The committee agreed to place a resolution for these items on the
December 18, Legislative agenda for a vote of the Board.
II.
Substitute Teachers
Mrs. Callahan reminded the committee that she had agreed to come back to
them with more information about the substitute teacher shortage.
Mrs.
Callahan has been collecting data since the last committee meeting and the
issue seems to have calmed down somewhat for the time being. The
administration will continue to monitor the situation for another month and come
back to the committee with recommendations if the shortage continues.
III.
Executive Session
An executive session was held to discuss matters permitted under the Sunshine
Act.
James M. Wigo
Superintendent of Schools
Rose Tree Media School District
308 North Olive Street
Media, Pennsylvania 19063-2493
Telephone 610.627.6000
Fax 610.565.5317
www.rtmsd.org
Eleanor DiMarino-Linnen, PhD
Director of Pupil Services and
Special Education
To:
Members of the Board of School Directors
James Wigo, Superintendent of Schools
From:
Dr. Eleanor DiMarino-Linnen, Director of Pupil Services and Special Education
Date:
December 4, 2014
Subject:
December 2, 2014 Pupil Services/Special Education Committee Meeting
Chairperson: Ms. Nancy Fronduti
Contracts
Five contracts have been received from Timothy School for 5 students (ID #s 0967,
4735, 4534, 5441, 6923) to receive educational services for the 2014-2015 school
year. The annual tuition is $63,250.00/student. These students have significant
disabilities and are in need of these services and special placement, as specified in
their IEPs.
The committee discussed the programs and services offered by the Timothy School
and the population of students served by these supports.
Action: This item will be placed on the December 18, Legislative agenda for a vote of
the Board of School Directors.
A contract has been submitted for a student to attend the Elwyn-Davidson School. The
student is a resident of Quakertown School District and is temporarily residing at
Elwyn, Inc. The per diem rate is $274.64. The District will pay Elwyn-Davidson and
then submit the invoice to Quakertown School District in accordance with the
regulations for the determination of residence of children living in Pennsylvania
institutions, BEC 24 P.S. §13-1308.
The committee discussed the regulations regarding students covered by the 1308
regulations, specifically as they relate to children placed residentially at Elwyn, Inc by
other agencies. For these students, Rose Tree Media School District (considered the
host district) is responsible for the students’ education program. The student’s resident
school district provides payment for the educational program and services needed for
these students.
Action: This item will be placed on the December 18, Legislative agenda for a vote of
the Board of School Directors.
Change in Penncrest Course Title and Course Department
To increase efficiency and provide a greater array of supports to special and
regular education students, the course previously limited to special education
students entitled “Academic Enrichment” will be changed to Achievement Center
and removed from special education into a course also accessible for regular
education students. It is recommended that the following course description be
included in the course catalog:
The Achievement Center course is designed to assist selected students who have
demonstrated a need for support in academic areas and/or in organization and
study skills. Students will receive a grade based on their class performance and
individual work. The class will meet daily for full credit as a non-ranked course.
Students may attend on a daily, partial-cycle, or partial-year basis for partial course
credit. In order to be eligible for Achievement Center, students must be
recommended by the case manager, guidance counselor, an administrator, or by
the Student Support Team.
The committee discussed the proposed change, including the curriculum offerings
available through the Achievement Center.
Action: This item will be placed on the December 18, Legislative agenda for a vote of
the Board of School Directors.
EXCELLENCE
TODAY
FOR TOMORROW
SCHOOL REPORT’S – December 18, 2014
GLENWOOD ELEMENTARY SCHOOL
Kindergarten
The kindergarten children met Mr. C this week. They love his "colossal cap" and they
discovered that he LOVES "cotton candy". So far the children have met Miss A, Mr. B, Mr.
C, Mr. M, Mr. S, and Mr. T. Now they are busy practicing all of those lower case letters.
The children now have 21 words on their sight word list. We like to call them "popcorn"
words because they pop right out of our mouths.
First Grade
First grade classes have been very busy during the month of December. The first grade
teachers, students, and their parents have adopted two families that have found
themselves in financial trouble this holiday season. In lieu of teacher gifts, the parents
have been asked to send in a gift for a member of the adopted families. Parents are
encouraged to include the children in the choosing of the gift, and the students will wrap
the presents in the classroom. First grade will also celebrate its second annual Grinch
Day. With the guidance of Mrs. Vellios-Miller, the students will spend the day focusing on
accepting others and building positive friendships.
Second Grade
Second grade has begun a science unit on solids and liquids. The unit is designed to
heighten the students' curiosity and understanding of the physical world and provide them
with opportunities to engage in hands-on scientific practices. The students will learn that
the matter exists as solids, liquids, and gas. The students will observe, describe, and
compare the properties and record their observations. Students will be learning new
vocabulary words that describe these properties. Other news: Our second grade classes
sponsored a UNICEF drive in October and raised $1263.41. The donated money will
“help save and protect the world’s most vulnerable children.”
Third Grade
Glenwood’s Third Graders have been diving into Nonfiction in Readers and Writers
Workshop. We have been learning about how to read nonfiction in powerful ways.
Students learned about a variety of post-its that they can use to show their understanding
of text, such as Boxes and Bullets, Expert Words, and Questions. In writing, each student
picked an expert topic and wrote a mini-book about their topic. Students incorporated text
School Reports
1
December 18, 2014
features, chapters, table of contents, and glossaries. The students also worked on
developing strong topic sentences with supporting sentences.
Fourth Grade
The fourth graders are participating in the Geography Bee for the first time. Each
classroom held a preliminary Geography Bee, and the two winners are now preparing to
represent their classmates. The fourth graders are looking forward to competing against
the fifth graders as they publicly show their knowledge of geography in front of all of the
third, fourth and fifth graders of Glenwood Elementary School.
Fifth Grade
Throughout the month of December, fifth grade students are researching information and
putting together a research paper on topics related to the American Revolution. This
writing unit is a perfect follow up to the 5th grade’s work on the American Revolution in
social studies during the past two months. In Reader’s Workshop, during the month of
December, students are developing strategies to read narrative non-fiction at a high level.
This is a perfect follow up to students reading of expository non-fiction during the month
of November. In social studies, as mentioned above, the 5th grade has spent the past two
months looking at the causes of the American Revolution. With that said, the fifth grade
now turns its attention to analyzing the Constitution during the month of December. In
Science, the fifth grade will be looking at the causes of both hurricanes and tornadoes
during the month of December.
Glenwood Visits Lima Estates Retirement Center
Glenwood students and teachers in Betsy Hennessey’s and Theresa Shannon’s
classrooms, along with Art teacher, Keith Sharp, visited the residents and staff at Lima
Estates Retirement Center. Students and residents worked together to create poinsettia
wreaths while sharing stories. Wreaths were used to decorate the resident’s doors. The
residents always enjoy it when the students visit.
Glenwood Spreads Holiday Cheer at Fair Acres Geriatric Center
Art Club helped to create door decorations for the residents at Fair Acres using cardboard
rolls that we cut, glued, and painted to create snowflakes and snowmen.
INDIAN LANE ELEMENTARY SCHOOL
Holiday Extravaganza
The Indian Lane Parent Teacher Group orchestrated a spectacular holiday event for all
ages. Guests enjoyed shopping at vendors, including the Holiday Secret Shop for the
children. They also had a chance to enjoy some yummy treats, visit with Santa, and play
the Dreidel game. The highlight of the event was the gingerbread house decorating.
Many thanks to Rekha Kutty for leading the Holiday Extravaganza team.
Indian Lane Library Partners with Middletown Free Library
Mrs. Hatton from Indian Lane and Mr. Jason from Middletown Free Library helped a
group of Indian Lane students create holiday cards for local senior citizens and engage in
School Reports
2
December 18, 2014
fun candy science experiments. Mrs. Hatton and Mr. Jason organize a monthly Indian
Lane-only evening at the Middletown Free Library.
Kindergarten
Kindergarten students and their parents participated in station rotations, using fine motor
skills to decorate turkey feathers for the hallway bulletin board. As mathematicians,
students recognized and created patterns. In Reading Workshop, students retold stories
by using the pictures, by using known words (popcorn words), and by using the
beginning, middle & ending. Students tried to use the exact words the author uses.
Students frequently practiced phoneme segmentation (breaking words apart into their
individual parts) and nonsense words in order to help them with their reading.
First Grade
In Reading Workshop, first grade readers began learning different strategies for their
reading toolkit to help them figure out tricky words instead of relying on sounding out the
words. The strategies included checking the picture, looking through all of the sounds by
stretching them out, and looking for small chunks or words inside tricky words. In Writing
Workshop writers began a unit on learning how to write a teaching book. Students
brainstormed expert topics such as playing sports, riding bikes, taking care of pets, and
going to school. Parents joined their writers for an in-class mini-lesson and helped first
grade students start their teaching books. In Math, students began learning about
subtraction. They learned that subtraction means taking away one number from another
and finding the difference. Students practiced subtraction by crossing out pictures and
counting back. First grade students prepared decorations, costumes, and food for the
annual Friendship Feast. They had a great time celebrating with their friends and making
homemade applesauce.
Second Grade
Second grade readers continued to analyze the characters in their books. They learned
how to make predictions about the characters, how to determine the personality traits of
the characters, how to get to know the characters little by little and how to determine what
the characters really want. Readers noticed that characters may change across a story.
They noticed how a character’s tone can help close readers make inferences and what to
do when a character acts, “out of character.” In Writing Workshop, students used their
poet's voice and descriptive language to describe snowflakes, snow and winter. In Math,
students continued their geometry unit, exploring congruency and symmetry. In Social
Studies, students worked with maps, map keys and landforms. They also celebrated
friendship with the annual Friendship Feast. Students gathered in the hallway to recite a
special poem about friendship. They shared healthful treats and time with their peers.
Third Grade
In Reader’s Workshop, students learned about the purposes for various non-fiction text
features, practiced grasping the main ideas in text, finding “pop out” sentences and
summarizing chunks of text. In Writer’s Workshop, students worked toward completion of
their drafts of their non-fiction books. In math, students practiced travel problems and
used “Trip Meters” to solve those problems. Also, the multiplication unit is officially
underway! Students enjoyed creating arrays and solving picture problems. Students
became quite opinionated during social studies.
They learned about the initial
Immigration game, which was a simulation of what life was like for some immigrants. In
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Science, students prepared for the human body unit. Third graders drew self-portraits and
completed a scavenger hunt in search of facts about the human body.
Fourth Grade
Four grade scientists began to construct their eco-columns. The columns consist of an
aquarium on the bottom and a terrarium making up the top portion of the column.
Students added elodea, duckweed, and algae to their aquariums in order to prepare
those habitats for the arrival of their mosquito fish and snails. Their terrariums also had
new inhabitants—crickets and isopods. Over the next several months, students will be
observing the interaction of these living things with non-living things. In social studies,
students completed their initial study of the people that have populated this country and
how they arrived in North America. Students appreciated many of the various
contributions that different groups have made to this vast and diverse country. In Math,
many students continued to analyze the relationship between multiplication and division
and finding other strategies to solve problems using the two operations.
Fifth Grade
Fifth grade mathematicians participated in a unit on percents, fractions, and decimals.
The AMP class worked on a geometry and angle sums of polygons unit. In social studies,
students studied European Exploration in the New World. Writers continued to work on
research papers. In reading, students began a unit on historical fiction. They started to
participate in book clubs. Teachers used the book, Fever 1793, as an interactive re-aloud.
Art
First grade artists reviewed landscapes. They celebrated the work of Charles Burchfield.
Second graders mounted their Mexican paintings for display. Both grade levels created
frames for their images that made a connection with their work. Third graders completed
their Egyptian paintings and placed them on their hieroglyphic prints. They started to
assemble a paper Roman temple as they review ancient architecture. Fourth graders
also looked at architecture, but with a modern twist, as they discovered Frank Lloyd
Wright. The artists pursued images with radial symmetry in Wright’s honor. Fifth graders
enjoyed paper manipulation with origami. They studied
colonial art, with a focus on John Singleton Copley and his portrait of Paul Revere.
Physical Education
First and grade athletes continued to work with hula-hoops and jump ropes, including
short and long ropes. Third and fourth grade students practiced net games. Students in
fifth grade practiced volleyball skills .
Library
Students learned about the author Mo Willems by reading his biography and exploring a
variety of books that he wrote and illustrated. Fourth and fifth graders learned to access
and utilize online databases and resources available for research.
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MEDIA ELEMENTARY SCHOOL
Kindergarten Readers!
In Kindergarten, we learned how to segment syllables and how to identify action words.
We continued developing our skills of working together including how to sit appropriately
for partner reading. We learned to sit shoulder to shoulder and knee to knee when we
share our reading binders. During our recent trips to the computer lab we learned how to
log ourselves onto RazKids. It has been an exciting time in Kindergarten!
First Grade Researchers and Writers!
November was a busy month for first grade students at Media Elementary. Students
spent time researching facts about the first Thanksgiving. They took a virtual tour of the
Mayflower, discussed the hardships faced by the Pilgrims, and identified ways the Native
Americans helped the Pilgrims.
This month students completed various How-to stories. Popular titles included How to
Build a Snowman, How to Wash a Dog, and How to Make a Sandwich. As a culminating
activity, students turned their How-to piece into a nonfiction text complete with a table of
contents and illustrations. This was a fun and exciting learning experience for all.
Second Grade Develops Community!
Second grade is finishing up its Fall Semester Partnership with the West Chester
University reading interns. We look forward to continuing this partnership in the spring.
Reading Interns work on literacy skills with selected students individually or in small
groups.
Second Graders and their families enjoyed our annual Second Grade Community Day
presentation. Second graders presented information on communities and wore costumes
depicting their occupation selection. Parents saw community occupation essays and
detailed illustrations displayed in the auditorium. The students also participated in the
Parent Showcase where they had the opportunity to learn about some careers from our
own Media Parents. We really appreciate the assistance we had from parents as well as
from some former and present MES staff members to help make this day a huge success.
Parent Visitation Day was well attended by the second grade parents. The students
enjoyed sharing part of the day with their parents.
Even in the rainy, windy weather, second graders thoroughly enjoyed their science/nature
field trip to Tyler Arboretum. They learned three ways that plants disperse seeds along
with other seasonal information about the fall season.
Third Grade Scientists
Have you ever wanted to learn about rides in Disney World? What about how to take
care of a cat? Do you know how to play soccer? Students in third grade at Media
Elementary completed a unit on informational writing where they taught others about
these topics and many more. The students learned how to organize information and to
write paragraphs with topic sentences. They analyzed their writing to determine which
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kinds of text features would best suit each section. Students worked to add number facts
and expert vocabulary. Check out their work hanging in the hallway!
Fourth Grade Historians
The fourth grade classes went to the Tyler Arboretum through a grant to learn about
water sheds, ponds, and lodic and lentic water systems. Students performed terbidity
tests, temperature assessments, and assessed the pH level of pond water. Students also
looked for macro organisms in ponds and learned to identify a variety of water insects.
Fifth Grade Takes on the American Revolution!
The fifth-grade students marched in the Media Veterans Day Parade on November 11,
2014. Wearing their Media Elementary tee shirts, the students helped unfurl the
American flag during the singing of “The Star-Spangled Banner.” The students stayed to
listen to the winners of the Veterans Day essay contest, honor World War II veterans, and
to hear the remarks of United States Senator Robert Casey.
Art is Alive and Well!
Fifth Grade: Students in fifth grade observed and discussed photographs of the adobe
structures of Native Americans of the Taos Pueblo in Taos, New Mexico, the oldest
continuously inhabited community in the United States. Afterwards, they created a relief
sculpture of an adobe pueblo from clay. The weavings, that fifth grade previously created,
were attached to the ceramic relief of the adobe home. The unit of study made crosscurricular connections between the visual arts and social studies.
Fourth Grade: Students in fourth grade created animal paintings inspired by the New
Orleans’ artist, George Rodrigue, and his Blue Dog series. Students had hands-on color
theory lessons learning terms such as monochromatic, complementary colors, tints, and
analogous colors. In addition, fourth grade students’ Colonial tinware works were
displayed at The Thomas Minshall House as part of bi-annual Candlelight Holiday House
Tour of The Media Historical Society.
Students in first through third grades completed art projects mentioned in the Nov. report.
Library News
Students, teachers and parents were happy to participate in another very successful book
fair! Families donated books to classrooms and every student at Media was delighted
with the books they found: their favorite authors and series were there in abundance.
Due to the rise in sales last year, Scholastic provided even more books to us this year.
Once again, Media teachers and families helped us to exceed LAST year’s profits. Our
school was lucky to benefit from the participation of many of our new Media parents, such
as Chairperson Michelle West, as well as our veteran parents who shared their wisdom
and experience! What a great kick-off to the holiday season!
Music News
Third graders are learning the placement of notes on the treble clef in preparation for
beginning recorders in January. This is a highlight of the third grade year! We are using
a multitude of SMARTBoard activities which teach and drill the basic elements of music
theory and a game app called Staff Wars. The students can also use the game at home
to improve their music decoding speed.
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The fifth grade gave their sensational off-Broadway rendition of Snow Biz! The script is a
“fun-filled musical salute to the joys of winter” and contained no less than 25 puns related
to snow. The show involved a speaking cast of 24 with the remainder of the 5th grade
serving as the chorus. The children rehearsed before and after school learning their
blocking, choreography, and songs. Everything came together during tech week with the
assistance of parents and teachers. Our stage decorations included six point snowflakes which doubled as a science lesson. The evening started with the Mustang Chorale
singing four of their winter selections. The chorale performed in Media at the Courthouse
and Rose Tree Place.
Physical Education
This month the students identified and used principles of exercise to improve movement
and fitness activities through team sports and activities such as football, Frisbee games,
and soccer. The students shared and described the relationship between practice and
skill development. The students recognized positive and negative interactions of small
group activities including the roles students take (leader, follower), cooperation/sharing,
and on task participation.
ROSE TREE ELEMENTARY SCHOOL
Kindergarten
Kindergarten has been hard at work! In Reading Workshop, students have been learning
how to work effectively in partnerships; this is achieved by preparing an idea to share with
their partner, by actively listening to their partner, and by responding to their partner's
thoughts. In Math, students have learned strategies to organize and increase the
accuracy of their counting. They are also describing and comparing the ways we
celebrate the winter holidays.
First Grade
First grade students enjoyed exploring nonfiction texts during reading workshop. The
students used the mentor texts to learn about the features found in informational writing.
They then applied these features to their own informational writing in writing workshop. In
Social Studies they learned about winter holidays celebrated around the world, and
shared some traditions from home. They also all enjoyed a wonderful holiday celebration
at Penncrest High School.
Second Grade
Second grade students are great at graphs and grids! They have interpreted graphs,
analyzed data and conducted surveys. Picture graphs, bar graphs and even line graphs
have been studied and created. Cross curricular graphing helped children realize the
importance of data in reading informational text as well as in our social studies program.
Students have used Dino Dig on the computers and iPads to study coordinate grids.
Books such as Bart's Amazing Charts and Ben Franklin's Magic Squares have tied
literature into the graphing experience. Graphing is a concept that will be studied spirally
throughout the school year.
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Third Grade
Third grade students recently enjoyed a trip to the Municipal Building and local police
station. This was a wonderful way to begin our study of government and public services.
In math, along with problem solving strategies, we continue to build fact fluency with an
emphasis on multiplication. The children have been hard at work creating informational
stories that will inform their readers about a topic of their choosing. Their writing is
supported by our daily lessons focusing on the structure and components of nonfiction
text.
Fourth Grade
Fourth grade students have become quite adept at using their microscopes effectively.
They finished up the Microworlds unit of study by observing three different living
organisms. The students learned the best way to handle living, moving creatures and
how to prepare slides for Volvox, Blepharisma, and the fast moving Vinegar Eels. This
science unit allowed the students to develop an awareness of the diversity and complexity
of microbial life. We have classes full of future scientist who have had many opportunities
to observe, record and evaluate their findings throughout this science unit.
Fifth Grade
Fifth grade students are continuing their non-fiction reader’s workshop unit. Students will
also be starting a non-fiction research project during the month of December. This will
include Reader’s Theatre that will be featured as students write and perform short plays
based on Greek mythology and figurative language. The students will produce story
quilts displaying their mastery of the elements of fiction. In science class, students will
create and label atmosphere diagrams and continue to learn about catastrophic events.
The students will design business cards for their favorite New World explorer while
learning about the Age of Exploration in social studies class.
Music
In the general music classroom, first grade students discovered the new musical
vocabulary word Pitch through teacher modeling and performance. The students
identified pitch in various musical selections and spent a class using an iPad app to
further their understanding. Various holiday activities and songs where learned and
performed honoring all cultures. The students also learned about Peter Tchaikovsky and
his piece “The Nutcracker.” Second grade continued experiencing rhythm through the
kinesthetic domain. Various holiday selections were also performed and enjoyed. Third
grade continued identifying the fundamentals of musical notation in preparation for
recorder. Fourth grade completed their Beethoven unit finished with a performance of
Beethoven’s “Ode to Joy” as a recorder assessment piece. Fifth grade completed a
successful winter concert complete with performances from the Hand Chime Ensemble,
Guitar Club, and Chorus. We had a student piano accompanist and a collaboration
between the Chorus and Hand Chime Ensemble. A select chorus caroled in a district
wide group on the steps of the Media Courthouse. A special select chorus went caroling
for residents of Rose Tree Place and Springfield Hospital.
Band
The elementary strings students proudly wore their RTM Elementary Strings shirts for
their performance in front peers. Later that evening, they did a second performance for
special friends and family at Springton Lake Middle School."
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Guidance
In our ongoing effort to help children appreciate the spirit of giving, Rose Tree Elementary
School again decided to share its good fortune with those who are less fortunate. During
this winter holiday season, the children were encouraged to look outward by giving to
others. During the month of December, the whole school worked together for our Winter
Holiday Project donating items for needy children in Chester, PA. All grade levels were
assigned a different item to bring to school. Each class was assigned a specific age
range to help target their purchases. Items included crayons, coloring/activity books,
socks, mittens/gloves, books and small inexpensive toys. It was a smashing success! We
were able to provide gift bags for needy children in nearby Chester, PA. Fifth grade
service club members, K.I.D.S., traveled to the Wesley House Shelter and Kidz First
Daycare in Chester to personally deliver the gifts to the children. Both of these sites are
part of the Community Action Agency of Delaware County. We also had the opportunity to
share some holiday cheer by singing two songs from Fifth Grade’s recent holiday concert.
We were joined again this year by our music teacher, Mr. David Sikorski, who led the
students in song. The joy on everyone’s faces was a sight to behold!
This generous holiday outpouring came on the heels of another successful Trick or Treat
for UNICEF campaign in which the school raised $1,406.90. That is the highest total we
have recorded!
Physical Education
During the month of December, grades one and two focused on underhand and overhand
throwing and catching. Third grade focused on bowling skills, as well as throwing and
catching. Fourth and fifth grade completed a unit on striking with long-handled
implements and rackets through activities such as lacrosse, hockey, baseball and
badminton.
Gifted
Fifth grade AGP students are currently writing screenplays and creating storyboards for a
district wide logic puzzle television show. Fourth grade AGP students are exploring the
functions of a video camera by filming the AFI “Door Scene.” Third grade AGP students
are in the process of collecting data on the Sun, the planets and Pluto, including
equatorial diameter and average distance from the Sun. Submitted by Denny Smyth
Nursing
During the Aiden’s Heart Foundation Heart Screenings held at Springton Lake Middle
School, one of our third grade students was identified as having Wolfe-Parkinson-White
Syndrome. Currently, he is being followed by a cardiologist at CHOP. As a result, five
teachers were trained and certified in CPR and AED. Including the nurse, there are now
six members of the RTE staff certified.
SPRINGTON LAKE MIDDLE SCHOOL
The following Students of the Month for the month of December were honored at a
breakfast this morning with their parents and teachers: Team 6-1: Eamon Scanlon and
Mira Patel; Team 6-2: Max Colizzo and Victoria Vallone; Team 6-3: Amanda White and
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Abigail Consadene; Team 7-1: Matej Sekulic and Audrey Bassett; Team 7-2: Dana He
and Nicholas Burbo; Team 7-3: Cassidy McLaughlin and Maxwell Cohen; Team 8-1:
Keiran Wilmot and Rachel Westcott; Team 8-2: Kiara Asbury and Liam Diefes; Team 83: Dana Jacobs and Ethan Rigby
Art
Ms. Sycz’ grade eight students have begun to discover the unique qualities of working
three-dimensionally by beginning a sculpture unit with the goal of creating a figure
sculpted out of clay. Students have learned that before any construction occurs; thinking
is required which includes choosing a specific character that can be achieved with the
type of sculpting techniques being used. Eighth grade students have brought in sketches
along with resource images and have reviewed basic handling techniques of clay. At this
time, students have made a standing cone form out of clay which will be modified to
represent a character. Grade seven is incorporating the main points of the previous
lesson to their new printmaking unit of study. Students are experiencing how drawing is
the foundation of all art forms using the elements of line and shape along with the
principle of proportion to draw the subject for their print. Students saw a variety of past
student prints which used the same printing materials that will be used this year.
Afterward students chose two subjects which will work well with a printing process which
highlights line and texture. Students are now in the process of completing two drawings
deciding on their own which lines and shapes to use along with the correct proportions.
Grade six students are now exploring how simple lines and shapes in the correct
proportions are the foundation of the art of drawing. At first students made simple lines
and shapes on a paper repeating the marks that the teacher made step-by-step without
knowing what if any image was going to be made. As the lines and shapes increased,
students realized that they had drawn the image of a bird in the snow. After gaining
confidence in their ability to draw, students are now drawing their own an image of a bird
looking using a resource image as a point of reference. Students are also being
challenged to include the main points of the previous lesson which focused on attractively
arranging a work on art.
Mrs. Going’s Eighth Grades begin the study of the art of the Illuminated Manuscripts from
the Middle Ages and Sculpture from the Renaissance period. First, a study of the Middle
Ages, predominantly in Europe, opens their eyes to the importance of the handmade
books know as Illuminated Manuscripts. After seeing many of the actual magnificent
books on u-tube, students are using their knowledge of composition and design to
develop their own original manuscript page. They will continue to compare their own to
the actual manuscripts reinforcing the importance of the four major components. Students
have also begun their unit on Sculpture and the element of Form. A study of
Michelangelo’s, Pieta opened the study. Students were amazed with the skill of the
Master Sculpture and eagerly began their own original figure! They have been amazed
how difficult the figure is to sculpt and they are developing a truly deep appreciation for
Michelangelo's work! Seventh grades have moved to their sculpture unit, The Art of the
Fish. They have looked at works, specifically from Canadian Architect and artist, Frank
Gehry who has been known to have a passion for using fish as a subject. Students begin
to create their own sculpture of a fish in motion! They are finding many unique ways to
make their sculptures appear as if they are moving. Their main focus will be on proper
handling of tools and material, using appropriate terminology and vocabulary and, of
course, craftsmanship!Sixth grades are moving through their Chinese Zodiac paintings!
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Drawings have been carefully laid out with a detailed frame, a body showing their
Chinese Zodiac animal in the foreground and they have been challenged to develop a
landscape behind their subject using a horizon line as the furthest point. All students are
learning new techniques using watercolor pencils in the frames and have moved into
creating watercolor washes for their backgrounds. As they complete the body of the
paintings, they will jump into a printmaking unit to complete their compositions.
In a written assignment, Mrs. Prior’s sixth graders are explaining how they used one point
linear perspective and the elements of art in their perspective drawings. Students are also
focusing on the use of proportions while drawing the features of the face. Leonardo da
Vinci’s portrait of a woman serves as inspiration for the use of proportions and light and
shade to create the forms of the face. Seventh grade students are finalizing their “Names
in Space” drawings by choosing background colors that contrast with their names and
forms. Students are also reinforcing their knowledge of color theory by writing about their
use of monochromatic, complementary, or analogous colors schemes in the drawings.
Eighth graders are creating small Op Art drawings as a follow-up to the just completed
two-point perspective scenes. Students will be honing their drawing and design skills with
this project.
Core Extension
In December, the Reading and Writing Across the Curriculum class continued to focus on
the processes for effective researching and informational writing. Sixth grade students
continued to study the topic of teen activism through an emphasis on determining
important information to gather as well as effective ways to take and organize their notes,
and draft the information in an organized manner. Seventh and eighth grade students
continued to navigate the research process, beginning with evaluating website validity,
effective note-taking, and arguing the validity of whether or not using Wikipedia when
researching has any benefits. Seventh grade continued to research either an atomic or
electrical scientist; and eighth grade students continued to research a world leader, a
mathematician, or a novelist. Each student uses a Writer’s Notebook to track his or her
progress and to research and take notes effectively.
Guidance
Eighth grade lessons were taught by Mrs. Gilroy as a follow up to the goal setting lesson
from the first marking period. Students checked first marking period grades, first marking
period goals and set academic goals for the second marking period. They identified
obstacles to reaching their goals. The second part of the lesson addressed stress
triggers and coping strategies to reduce stress.
Guidance counselor Susan Howe facilitated discussions and role playing as seventh
graders tried out different strategies to stand up to bullying behavior. Students
learned statistics such as 160, 000 students stay home from school due to bullying
behavior. Seventh graders have the tools and strategies to diminish bullying behavior at
Springton Lake.
Counselors planned a classroom meeting agenda for teachers to use as a follow up to the
Rachel’s Challenge assembly. They will be facilitating a group in each grade that will be
leading the school in kindness initiatives for the reminder of the year as part of our
SWPBS Program.
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In our efforts to prevent and address peer issues, Mrs. Howe and Mrs. Griffin attended a
full day seminar to learn strategies to deal with female relational aggression. The
counselors also attended a seminar about mindfulness in education. All three counselors
attended the Delaware County Suicide Prevention and Awareness Symposium.
Language Arts
In sixth grade Language Arts, students completed the personal narrative writing unit.
They practiced using resources to aid with final revisions and editing, revised to ensure
that their narrative slowed down the action of the problem, and ended the narrative in a
meaningful way, by learning a life lesson.
As readers, SLMS sixth grade students continued their Character Study unit through the
use of group-selected drama texts. Learning objectives will include identifying themes in
the plays, analyzing real-life situations through the lens of fictional works, making
inferences, studying author’s craft, mood, and tone. Students also continued to enjoy
independent reading time on Fridays and discussing their books with their reading
partners. This reading time gives teachers the opportunity to conference with students to
discuss character’s actions, author’s technique, figurative language, tone and mode, and
other literary elements.
The seventh grade Language Arts students began a unit on writing realistic fiction stories.
They brainstormed story ideas using small moments in their lives, places, events, issues,
struggles, and stories they wish existed in the world. They made their characters come
alive with traits, wants and challenges, self-attitude and relationships. Then, students
test-drove their characters in scenes using actions, feelings, dialogue, setting and point of
view. The students also completed the Winter MAP Assessment.
Eighth grade Language Arts students read The Diary of a Young Girl during the month of
December. Analyzing this account gave students new insights into historical conflicts and
universal themes. Related readings include "Desert Flowers," a poem by Janice Mirikitani,
"Attention to Detail," a piece of historical fiction by Richard Haratani, and The Boy in the
Striped Pajamas by John Boyne. These sources will deepen students' understanding of
historical perspectives.
Library
The ever-popular Fall Book Fair was the featured event of American Education Week in
the library. Students, staff, and parents enjoyed perusing the Book Fair offerings, and the
event was hugely successful. A particularly big seller this year was the young adult
adaptation of the award-winning true story of Louie Zamperini, entitled Unbroken, by
Laura Hillenbrand. Other popular titles included the Maze Runner series by James
Dashner, Divergent by Veronica Roth, Counting by 7s by Holly Goldberg Sloan, John
Green’s The Fault in Our Stars and Looking for Alaska, and assorted historical fiction and
nonfiction titles, such as Fever 1793 by Laurie Halse Anderson, The Boy Who Dared by
Susan Campbell Bartoletti, and Anne Frank: The Diary of a Young Girl. Parent volunteers
were wonderful and assisted in keeping the fair running smoothly and efficiently.
Following the fair, the library featured a display of selected titles acquired from the Book
Fair, well over 100 titles, so students had (and will continue to have) an opportunity to
enjoy the Fair offerings even if they did not purchase an item themselves.
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Math
Our geometry students were introduced to triangle congruency and using one of five
possible ways to prove triangles congruent—SSS, SAS, ASA, AAS, and HL. Sounds like
a code—but each simply refers to corresponding parts of congruent triangles being
congruent. We are going to be working on constructions using the most basic of tools—a
compass and a straightedge in order to copy line segments and angles, and bisect
segments and angles. We are continuing to review the Algebra skills practiced last year.
We are continuing to prepare for our Mid-Term exam at the end of the marking period.
Our Algebra I students are being introduced to linear relationships—represented in tables,
graphs, and equations. They are graphing linear relationships using x/y tables, the
intercepts of the equation, and simply the equation alone. These concepts are continued
as we graph and solve linear systems later this marking period.
Our eighth grade math students are wrapping up a marking period unit on linear
relationships. They were introduced to linear relationships shown in tables, graphs, and
equations. They worked on solving for the slope and y-intercept given each of the three
representations. Solving equations in one variable were also introduced and practiced.
They followed “steps” to solving one-step, two-step, and multi-step equations.
Our next unit of study is one of review—perimeter, area, and volume. We will be adding
in similarity of figures with respect to perimeter, area, and volume. This should take us up
to Winter Break.
The seventh grade math students are currently finishing up the “Variables and Patterns”
unit of the Connected Math Program. The students have been learning how to solve
equations, combine-like terms, and evaluate expressions. The students learned the
definitions of coefficient, variable, constant, and algebraic expression. The students also
completed practice problems based on the Common Core standards. The next unit the
students will be learning is Equations & Inequalities. The seventh grade teachers worked
together to create a great resource to help the students as they work through this unit.
Sixth grade students studied algebraic expressions. To introduce algebra, students
defined parts of an expression including variables, constants, coefficients, and algebraic
expressions. Students identified examples, non-examples, and real-life examples of
each. They translated between words and math to write expressions. Students enjoyed
creating an algebraic expression from a given real-world situation. Then, students
evaluated one-step and multi-step expressions. Identifying and combining like-terms was
also used to simplify expressions.
Accelerated Math students studied algebraic expressions. To introduce algebra, students
defined parts of an expression including variables, constants, coefficients, and algebraic
expressions. Students identified examples, non-examples, and real-life examples of
each. They translated between words and math to write expressions. Students enjoyed
creating an algebraic expression from a given real-world situation. Then, students
evaluated one-step and multi-step expressions involving integers, positive and negative
fractions and decimals. Identifying and combining like-terms was also used to simplify
expressions. Students also utilized the distributive property when simplifying these
expressions.
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All math students in grades sixth through eighth will be taking their first MAP (Measure of
Academic Progress) benchmark assessment during the first two weeks of December. In
addition to MAP, students will be completing an “Hour of Code” during Computer Science
Education week—December 8th-12th. More details will be given out in class.
Music
In addition to winter concerts, the Springton Lake Middle School Music Department has
been very busy in the month of December. The seventh and eighth grade select choir
performed at the Brinton Lake medical center and the Delaware County Courthouse on
December 12th to spread holiday cheer to our community. They will end December with
a holiday sing-along for the school. The Springton Lake Middle School Honor Strings will
be performing for the school board meeting. The sixth grade Choice Voices will be
performing at Sterling Rehabilitation and Health Care.
Physical Education
The sixth, seventh and eighth grade classes finished their first round of classes in the
pool. All sixth students go to the pool with their physical education teacher for six
classes. After each class has gone to the pool, the cycle is repeated. The students have
a chance to have six straight pool lessons in addition to experiencing all of the units that
are presented by the physical education staff.
Sixth grade classes have had the opportunity to experience a variety of activities including
a weight room introduction, scooter activities, and basketball. In the weight room the
students learned about the different machines that are available for them to use. In
addition, they were given instructions on safe weight training practices and how simple
weight training exercises at their ages can be beneficial. For the scooter unit, students
were instructed on proper scooter safety and experienced adaptive games including
sports that were related to wheelchair activities. In basketball, the students had the
opportunity to learn basic fundamentals of basketball, and apply them to game-like
situations.
The seventh and eighth grade boys participated in a basketball unit where they worked on
a variety of skills. They had the opportunity to use their skills in a 4 on 4 half-court
tournaments. In addition to playing in this tournament, the students had to complete a
team assignment. Within this assignment each team member was responsible to
complete a specific job that connects with another school subject. Students had their
choice of completing social studies, artistic, musical, language arts or mathematical job.
The interdisciplinary packet that the students had to complete in addition to the physical
skills allowed for the kids to see the additional strands an activity could have that focused
on the mental side of the game.
The seventh grade girls worked on a self-defense unit. The students have worked on
understanding potential harmful situations and how to handle them. The students also
were taught the physical and mental components of such situations and how to effectively
identify and handle the situations. In addition, the seventh and eighth grade girls worked
on different training programs in the weight room and in aerobics. In the weight room unit,
the students have been learned about identifying muscle groups and how caloric
expenditure works in regards to how diet and exercise can affect one another. In
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aerobics, the students were exposed to activities with the Bosu balance Ball trainers, step
aerobics and Taebo.
Science
In sixth grade science, students learned about bacteria and viruses. Students learned the
differences between them and how to treat and prevent them. We read articles about
Ebola and other diseases. Students learned the differences between infectious and noninfectious diseases and researched bacterial and viral infections.
Seventh grade science was in the full swing of electrical investigation. The students
compared and contrasted series and parallel circuits by exploring current (Amperes),
electromotive force (Voltage), and resistance (Ohms). The students learned basic
electrical diagramming as well as proper use of ammeters, L.E.D.’s, circuit breakers, and
fuses. Electrical safety in the home was reinforced throughout the unit.
In eighth grade science, students have been looking at the differences between chemical
and physical changes and properties. Students have seen a variety of demonstrations
and lab activities where they looked for distinguishing characteristics of these changes.
We have also explored various types of matter, learning how to classify substances as
mixtures, suspensions, solutions, elements and compounds. Finally, during our
exploration of mixtures, students determined procedures and planned activities to
determine how to separate a mixture of various substances (salt, sand, oil, water, and/or
iron) using a variety of techniques, as well as how to extract and measure the amount of
iron found in Total cereal.
Social Studies
All Springton Lake students participate in the classroom level competition for the National
Geographic Bee during December. The school champion will be determined in January.
Sixth grade students have been studying the causes of World War II, the creation and
expansion of the Nazi regime, and the tragedies of Hitler’s “Final Solution.” The students
learned of the Holocaust through the eyes of Holocaust survivors using books, articles,
and video testimony. In addition, Mr. Danny Goldsmith, a survivor, spoke to the students
about his personal experiences during the Holocaust. As a culminating activity for the
unit, the students read Number the Stars by Lois Lowry to investigate the heroic
resistance movements in more depth.
Seventh grade students have demonstrated their understanding of the Bill of Rights
through formal assessments and discussions regarding current events. Students
examined the first ten amendments with particular attention paid to four contemporary
landmark Supreme Court cases. In addition, students have explored the birth of political
parties through an activity where students will work cooperatively to prepare for a mock
political conference. During this conference, students will role-play historical figures that
had differing political views during the late 18th century and early 19th century. The activity
will culminate with a mock election during which the students will vote for a new Federalist
or Republican president.
Eighth grade students have been studying the geography and history of ancient
Mesopotamia. The earliest people of this region were called the Sumerians and students
School Reports
15
December 18, 2014
analyzed and evaluated their many achievements using primary sources and photos of
artifacts such as: the wheel, the arch, astronomy, and a number system based on the
number sixty. Currently, eighth grade students are exploring ancient Egypt. They are
examining artifacts and replicas from the University of Pennsylvania during this unit. In
addition, the students are analyzing readings about mummification, the economy of Egypt
and Nubia, and the leadership of the pharaohs.
Special Education
The current math unit being covered in the seventh grade learning support math
classroom is “Accentuate the Negative”: Positive and Negative Numbers. Although
students have intuitively used operations on integers to make sense of some situations in
their everyday world, this unit looks at formal ways to compute with these numbers. In
this unit, the focus is on understanding and developing systematic ways to add, subtract,
multiply, and divide positive and negative numbers. Students will develop algorithms for
computations and will use the order of operations, the Commutative Property, and the
Distributive Property to solve problems. By the end of the unit, students will be able to
describe real-world situations in which integers are used.
In Mrs. Debessay’s eighth grade resource class students participated in executive
functions lessons that focused on organizational skills, time management strategies, and
study skills to increase overall academic performance. During class, students applied a
variety of reading strategies to increase comprehension, developed strategies for
engaged listening, and analyzed written directions. One specific strategy that the
students learned was CUCC (Circle action words, Underline key words, Count the steps,
Complete the activity). This method helped students outline written directions into a stepby-step format. Students were then challenged to utilize the CUCC method when
performing a task analysis, including creating an action plan for a sample book review
project.
World Language
The French classes celebrated National French Week from November 10th to the 18th.
The school’s hallways were decorated with posters made by all grade level students.
These posters represented the 27 countries where French is spoken, Thanksgiving
menus written in French, house plans designed by eighth graders, business cards
designed by seventh grade students who were “working” for French companies in the US.
Each morning a French club member read a trivia question to the school via the PA
system, and winning home rooms earned a French treat. On the 13th, all French classes
enjoyed a French style breakfast of a croissant and hot chocolate. On the 18th, Penncrest
students came to Springton to participate in the annual pétanque tournament against the
Springton French club members. Mrs. Riviere and Mrs. Jackson provided delicious hot
chocolate and cookies for all of the participants, which was a well appreciated snack
given the frigid temperature. In closing, the seventh grade students have written again to
their pen pals in Eastern France and are eagerly awaiting the responses.
The seventh grade students created and presented “A Day at Springton Lake”
presentations, in which they shared the classes in which they are enrolled, which
teachers teach their classes, and activities that are performed in each class. The projects
were written and presented entirely in Spanish. The eighth grade students created and
presented Family Tree projects. The final products included posters, photo albums, and
School Reports
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December 18, 2014
electronic presentations. These projects were also written and presented entirely in
Spanish. At the conclusion of the family unit, seventh grade ESOL students Bruno
Lazaro, from Peru, and Kleber Espinoza-Moran, from El Salvado, presented to Mrs.
Diaz’s eighth grade students about their families and the cultures of their home countries.
The eighth grade students were surprised and excited to have an opportunity to speak
with Bruno and Kleber in Spanish.
PENNCREST HIGH SCHOOL
Penncrest Student Leadership Retreat
This past month, 105 students and 13 staff members from Penncrest High
School departed for Camp Tockwogh in Worton, Maryland for the eighth annual student
leadership retreat. At the retreat, students were encouraged to step out of their comfort
zones by participating in team-building activities. The program also required attendees to
think of themselves as leaders and how they can apply their leadership skills back at
Penncrest. This year, the retreat also offered students the opportunity to attend
workshops on communication, goal setting, and leadership styles. Mr. Dougherty and
Student Council President Schaefer Hudson-Orton co-taught the session on "The Colors
of Leadership." Students were also given the honor of hearing motivational speaker Ed
Gerety present on “Dreaming Big.” Mr. Dougherty, Mr. Greg Jacobs, and Mrs.
Rachubinski, designed this years’ program, and take great pride in not only the leadership
retreat, but the overall student leadership program at Penncrest. The trip would not be
possible without their hard work and dedication as well as the commitment of PHS staff
volunteers who sacrificed time away from home to serve as chaperones. Thank you once
again to the RTMSD administration for their support of our student leaders.
The Giving Tree
Thank you to all who participated in Penncrest’s annual “Giving Tree” initiative. The
project is a collaboration of the National Honor Society and Child Development II classes.
Paper ornament tags indicating needed items were hung on the tree. The tags were
selected by anonymous donors who purchased items as gifts for area residents and
placed them under the tree. Bernadette Dacanay, our district's home and school
visitor, arranged for the gifts to be delivered to those in need.
Powder Puff Football
The Penncrest Athletic Department recently hosted the eighth annual Powder Puff Flag
Football game benefiting the Linda Creed Breast Cancer Foundation. The game time
temperature was 25 degrees. Alicia Collier started the scoring in the second half with an
80 yard touchdown run for the juniors after receiving the handoff from QB Sam Crann.
Becca Viguers made the two point conversion. Megan Kitchen had an interception for the
juniors and Kayla Allen was all over the field on both defense and offense. The seniors
were led on offense by QB Caitlyn Conrad and halfback Nicole Mancarella. The seniors
tied the game, 8-8, with two minutes left on a nifty run by Katie Coyle. In OT, Alicia
Collier scored on the first play to make it 14-8. The seniors made it to the one yard line
on first down, but lost yardage on the next three downs to give the juniors the win, 14-8.
Nicole Mancarella and Kayla Allen were named Co-MVP's. Thank you to our co-event
organizers: senior Natalie Kron (last two years) and junior Kayla George!!!
School Reports
17
December 18, 2014
Athletic Department News
The Winter Sports season has begun with 247 students signing up for a Penncrest winter
sport this year!
Technology and Engineering Education Department News
Penncrest teachers Carl Kriebel and Steve Mescanti attended the annual Technology &
Engineering Association of PA conference. They dialogued with other teachers from
around the state, shared ideas, and attended a variety of seminars on trends, topics and
curricular issues in Tech and Engineering education.
Penncrest faculty members Lori Rice-Spring and Steve Mescanti arranged for
approximately 30 students to meet with a panel of local engineers from various industries
and learn more about the world of engineering. The panel made presentations on what
their jobs entail, what their educational experiences were like and new and emerging
trends in engineering. Students were able to ask questions of the guests and gain
insights into engineering as a potential career path.
Science Department News
The Penncrest Medical Scholars Club attended live Surgery at Lankenau Hospital this
month. Fifteen students attended the surgery, a cholecystectomy (or gall bladder
removal) which served as the kickoff activity for the 11th annual Annenberg High School
Science Symposium. The Annenberg Symposium is funded by Merck and provides the
opportunity for hundreds of Delaware Valley students to enjoy, what will be for most, a
once in a lifetime experience. Dr. Barry Mann, Lankenau Hospital's Director of Medical
Education, moderated the activity. Dr. Mann afforded our students an informative and
entertaining lecture to describe the underlying anatomy, physiology, and pathology that
leads to gall bladder disease. Dr. Mann followed his lecture by describing specifics of the
operation as it occurred. The surgical procedure was successfully performed by Dr. John
Geffen and his assistant, Dr. Chris Greenleaf. Students were able ask Dr. Geffen and his
surgical team questions while they worked on the patient.
The Medical Scholars Club continues to participate in the Symposium as we investigate
the topic of Neurodegenerative disease. Students will focus on primary
neurodegenerative diseases including Alzheimer’s, Parkinsonism, and amyotrophic lateral
sclerosis, and the secondary effects of neuro-degeneration in autoimmune diseases like
multiple sclerosis, and infections like poliomyelitis and influenza. The symposium project
also requires a creative or artistic component to compliment the research project. In
March, the Medical Scholars will present their research findings in a competitive event
held at Riddle Memorial Hospital that is open to the public. Expert collaboration from the
community is welcome. Please contact faculty sponsor, Brian Dougherty, at 610-6276375, for more information.
World Language News
The Phyllis Kavanaugh Scholarship committee recently interviewed seven highly-qualified
World Language students for the annual study abroad scholarship. The committee chose
one winner, to be announced soon.
The World Language Honor Society sponsored an Equal Exchange fair-trade fund-raiser.
As a result, the club raised $1,680 for the Phyllis Kavanaugh Scholarship.
School Reports
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December 18, 2014
The World Language Honors Club is actively providing free tutoring to World Language
students. To arrange for a peer tutor, students and parents are encouraged to contact
Ms. Laura Nemec at lnemec@rtmsd.org.
Music Department News
Congratulations to the following Penncrest music students who successfully auditioned
for the Pennsylvania Music Educators Association District Festivals:
District Band: Sam Messer, Scott Dabundo, Chris Urffer, and Stephen Yee
District Orchestra: Sam Messer, David McCafferty, Alex Sredenchek
District Chorus: Antonella DeCicci
Members of the Penncrest Jazz Band recently took part in a workshop at Moravian
University. Presented by the PA Jazz Collective, the workshop was a free, hands-on
experience with collegiate and professional jazz performers and educators.
Health/PE Department News
The Health and PE Department would like to congratulate the following first semester
fitness winners: Seniors: Emily Evenden, Soham Kamat, Max Miller, Phil Naum, Alison
Neumann, Mackenzie O'Keefe, Taylor Orcutt, Ruturaj Patil and Joe Pyfer. Juniors:
Christina Bewley, Jen Bonner, Cody Bregande, Hannah Cosgrove, Emily Hopkins, Megan
Kitchin, Marina Parsons and Rebecca Viguers. Sophomores: Lauren Bristow, Victoria
Campbell, Maddie DiDomenico, Devon Else, Caroline Hosier, Paige Jacobs, Olivia
Mancarella, Natalie San Antonio and Cara Speer. Freshmen: Christian Gallagher.
Simon Youth Academy News
The SYA thanks everyone who came out to our annual Thanksgiving Luncheon. The
students enjoy spending time with our guests every year.
The Simon Youth Foundation recently awarded the Rose Tree Media Simon Youth
Academy a plaque to recognize the 100% graduation rate for 2013-14 school year.
The SYA students participated in collecting gifts for our neighbors at Fair Acres this
month. The gift list was emailed to all staff and posted on the district website for
community members who donated gifts for the residents.
Students completed their “3D Form Chart” projects this month. For this project, each
student drew six different complex objects that embody the six basic 3D forms (cone,
sphere, wedge, cylinder, box, and pyramid.)
SYA students worked diligently on reading, comprehension, and writing skills for the
Keystone Exams which took place in December.
SYA seniors are currently reading the novel, The Things They Carried, by Tim O'Brien. It
is a story about war, memories, imagination, and the power of storytelling.
School Reports
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December 18, 2014
ROSE TREE MEDIA SCHOOL DISTRICT
PRESIDENTIAL ANNOUNCEMENTS – EXECUTIVE SESSION
“In accordance with the Pennsylvania Sunshine Act, executive sessions of the
School Board were held on the following dates to review and discuss matters
permitted under Section 8 of the Act.”
November 18, 2014
December 2, 2014
December 18, 2014
There will be an executive session of the School Board for matters of personnel
at 6:30 p.m. prior to the Legislative Session of January 22, 2015, at Penncrest
High School. The Legislative meetings are recorded on tape.
Presidential Announcement
1
December 18, 2014
IX.
New Business
A.
Personnel
1.
Terminations
a.
Professional
b.
Non-Instructional
1.
Judy Blair, Payroll Clerk, retirement effective
January 23, 2015.
Background
Mrs. Blair joined the staff of Rose Tree Media School
District in 2002. She is retiring after 12 years of
dedicated service.
2.
2.
Nominations
a.
IX. New Business
Leslie Virbitsky, Food Service, Penncrest High
School, resignation effective December 6, 2014.
Professional
1.
Erin Warner, Mathematics Teacher, effective date to
be determined, at the annual salary of $54,191.00,
Master’s Degree/Step 6. Ms. Warner received her
Bachelor’s Degree from the University of Delaware
and her Master’s Degree from Cabrini College. She
comes to us from Owen J Roberts Middle School
where she served as a Math Teacher. She is
assigned to Penncrest High School replacing Alicia
Mathisen who resigned. NOTE: MS. Warner is being
hired pending completion of her pre-employment
paperwork.
2.
Marci Carmeans, Long Term Substitute Science
Teacher effective January 26, 2015 for the second
semester, at the annual salary of $45,953.00,
Bachelor’s Degree/Step 1 pro-rated. MS. Carmeans
served as a Long Term Substitute for the first
semester of the 2014-2015 school year. Ms.
Carmeans received her Bachelor’s Degree from
Temple University. She is assigned to Penncrest
High School replacing Amanda Slattery who is on
leave.
1
December 18, 2014
IX.
New Business
A.
Personnel
2.
Nominations
a.
Professional
b.
3.
Rescind appointment of John Phillips as Long Term
Substitute English Teacher for the 2014-2015 school
year at Penncrest High School.
4.
John Phillips, English Teacher, effective January 26,
2015 at the annual salary of $46,091.00, Bachelor’s
Degree/Step 2. Mr. Phillips served as a Long Term
Substitute for the 2013-2014 school year and for the
first semester of the 2014-2015 school year. Mr.
Phillips received his Bachelor’s Degree from West
Chester University. He is assigned to Springton Lake
Middle School replacing Susan Cooper who resigned.
5.
Kortney Mazzella, Long Term Substitute Elementary
Teacher effective January 26, 2015, at the annual
salary of $45,953.00, Bachelor’s Degree/Step 1, prorated. Ms. Mazzella served as a Long Term Substitute
for the first semester of the 2014-2015 school year.
Ms. Mazella received her Bachelor’s Degree from
West Chester University. She is assigned to
Glenwood Elementary replacing Melissa Miller who is
on leave.
Non-Instructional
1.
Ron Tyson, Substitute Maintenance for the 20142015 school year at the rate of $12.00 per hour.
NOTE: Mr. Tyson is being hired pending completion
of his pre-employment paperwork.
2.
Recommend Board approval for the following District
personnel to serve as Substitute Custodians at the
rate of $12.00 per hour:
Michael Finn
3.
a.
Robert Hodson
Unpaid Leave of Absence
1.
IX. New Business
Michael Willauer
General
Melissa Miller requests an extension of her unpaid
leave of absence effective January 26, 2015 through
June 30, 2015 for the purpose of child rearing.
2
December 18, 2014
IX.
New Business
A.
Personnel
3.
General
a.
Unpaid Leave of Absence
2.
b.
Rescind Supplemental Contracts
1.
c.
IX. New Business
Lindsay Groy requests an extension of her unpaid
leave of absence effective January 26, 2015 through
June 30, 2015 for the purpose of child rearing.
Rescind appointment of Rick Stroup as Winter Fitness
Club Sponsor at Penncrest High School.
Supplemental Contracts
1.
Steve Adams, Assistant Wrestling Coach for the
2014-2005 school year at the annual salary of
$2,465.00. Mr. Adams is assigned to Springton Lake
Middle School.
2.
David Wood, Assistant Freshman Baseball Coach for
the 2014-2015 school year at the annual salary of
$3,625.00. Mr. Wood is assigned to Penncrest High
School. NOTE: Mr. Wood is being hired pending
completion of his pre-employment paperwork.
3.
Bethany Zeleznick Event Chaperone for the 20142015 school year at the rate of $18.33 per hour. Ms.
Zeleznick is assigned to Penncrest High School.
4.
Colleen Hoy, New Teacher Mentor effective
November 3, 2014 at the annual salary of $890.30.
Ms. Hoy is assigned to Penncrest High School.
5.
Andrew Abrams, Assistant Baseball Coach for the
2014-2015 school year at the annual salary of
$3,625.00. Mr. Abrams is assigned to Penncrest High
School. NOTE: Mr. Abrams is being hired pending
completion of his pre-employment paperwork.
6.
Stefan Dashkiwsky, Winter Fitness Club at the annual
salary of $725.00. Mr. Dashkiwsky is assigned to
Penncrest High School.
3
December 18, 2014
IX.
New Business
A.
Personnel
3.
General
c.
Supplemental Contracts
7.
d.
Caitlyn Carminito, Intramural Sponsor for the 20142015 school year at the rate of $21.26 per hour. Ms.
Carminito is assigned to Indian Lane Elementary.
Salary Correction
1.
Supplemental salary correction for Jean McPheeters,
KIDS Club Sponsor to $1,384.00. This salary was
incorrectly reported on the October Board.
2.
Supplemental
salary
correction
for
Phoebe
Simmington, (.5) New Teacher Mentor to $608.00.
This salary was incorrectly reported on the August
Board.
3.
Recommend Board approval of the pay rate
corrections for the following Food Service Workers
effective September 3, 2014:
Joan Breslin
Terry Mawson
B.
$12.95 per hour
$12.10 per hour
Overnight Trips
1.
Penncrest High School - PMEA District Band to Downingtown, PA
Resolve, the Board of School Directors approve anovernight field
trip for four students to participate in the PMEA District Band in
Downingtown, PA from 1/8-1/10/15. The registration fee is $660.00.
Students will be transported by District bus to the site but parents
will pick up for the return trip.
Background
The students successfully auditioned for the PMEA District 12
Festival.
IX. New Business
4
December 18, 2014
IX.
New Business
B.
Overnight Trips (continued)
2.
Penncrest High School PMEA District Chorus to Immaculata
University
Resolve, the Board of School Directors approve an overnight field
trip for one student to participate in the PMEA District Chorus at
Immaculata University from 1/22/14-1/24/14. There are no
transportation costs. The registration fee is $160.00.
Background
This student successfully auditioned for the PMEA District 12
Festival.
C.
Change to Penncrest Course Catalog
Resolve, that the Board approve a change in the Penncrest Course
Catalog from and Title of a course previously limited to special education
students entitled “Academic Enrichment” to a course called “Achievement
Center” open to both regular and special education students upon
recommendations from the guidance counselor, Individual Education Plan
Team, and/or Student Support Team. It is recommended that the following
course description be included in the course catalog:
The Achievement Center course is designed to assist
selected students who have demonstrated a need for
support in academic areas and/or in organization and
study skills. Students will receive a grade based on
their class performance and individual work. The class
will meet daily for full credit as a non-ranked course.
Students may attend on a daily, partial-cycle, or partial-year
basis for partial course credit. In order to be eligible for
Achievement Center, students must be recommended
by the case manager, guidance counselor, an administrator,
or by the Student Support Team.
Background
This change will improve the efficiency and effectiveness of providing
interventions and supports to all students.
IX. New Business
5
December 18, 2014
IX.
New Business
D.
Proposed Book Adoptions for Springton Lake Middle School Language
Arts
Resolve, the Board of School Directors approve the attached list of books
for use immediately.
Gathering Blue
The Maze Runner
Chains
My Brother Sam is Dead
Lincoln’s Grave Robbers
Between Shades of Gray
Snow Flower and the Secret Fan
The President Has Been Shot: The Assassination of John F.
Kennedy
Girl With the Pearl Earring
The Guernsey Library and Potato Peel Pie Society
Moloka’i
Background
In compliance with Policies 108 and 109, the Board of School Directors
approves books and materials for use in Rose Tree Media schools.
Purchases will be funded by the building budget at Springton Lake and the
Office of Curriculum & Instruction. This issue was discussed at the
December 2014 Curriculum & Instruction Committee meeting.
IX. New Business
6
December 18, 2014
ADDENDUM
IX.
New Business
E.
Addendum – Personnel
1.
Terminations
1.
2.
Richard Gregg, Principal, Penncrest High School,
resignation effective January 31, 2015.
Nominations - none
IX. New Business Addendum
1
December 18, 2014
X.
Finance
A.
Purchasing - None
B.
General
1.
Change Orders
Change Orders are acted upon in accordance with Resolution
1997-98 – 124, as approved by the Board of School Directors on
April 23, 1998.
Resolve, that the Board of School Directors approve the following
change order:
a.
Change Order MC-02 from Allstates Mechanical in the
amount of $3,144.44 for a replacement of a gas regulator at
Indian Lane Elementary School.
Background
This item was discussed at the December 2nd Operations
Committee meeting.
2.
Brain Show Contract
Resolve, the Board of School Directors approve the Brain Show
Contract in the amount of $1,650.00. This contract is for an
assembly at Media Elementary School and is being funded by the
PTG with no cost to the school district.
Background
This item was discussed at the December 2nd Finance Committee
meeting.
X. Finance
1
December 18, 2014
X.
Finance
A.
Purchasing - None
B.
General
3.
Timothy School Contracts
Resolve, the Board of School Directors approve five contracts from
Timothy School for 5 students (ID #s 0967, 4735, 4534, 5441,
6923) to receive educational services for the 2014-2015 school
year. The annual tuition is $63,250.00/student.
Background
These students have significant disabilities and are in need of these
services and special placement, as specified in their IEPs.
4.
Elwyn-Davidson School Contract
Resolve, the Board of School Directors approve a contract for a
student to attend the Elwyn-Davidson School. The student is a
resident of Quakertown School District and is temporarily residing
at Elwyn, Inc. The per diem rate is $274.64.
Background
The District will pay Elwyn-Davidson and then submit the invoice to
Quakertown School District in accordance with the regulations for
the determination of residence of children living in Pennsylvania
institutions, BEC 24 P.S. §13-1308.
5.
Oral Language Proficiency Assessment Contracts
Resolve, the Board of School Directors approve contracts with
Kathleen Clark, Andrea Varricchio, and Meilin Shieh to provide oral
language proficiency assessments in French, Spanish, and
Chinese to students in AP French, AP Spanish, and Chinese IV in
May 2015. The total amounts of the contracts are $600, $680, and
$80 respectively.
Background
The contracts were discussed at the December Curriculum and
Instruction Committee meeting.
X. Finance
2
December 18, 2014