The Pathfinder School
2015-2016
Parent – Student Handbook
50 Donati Road
Bethel Park, PA 15102
Mr. Nicholas R. Fratto, Acting Principal
Ms. Meghan Johnson, Secretary
Phone: 412-833-2777
Fax: 412-833-4060
Facebook: Pathfinder School
Website: http://www.thepathfinderschool.com/
Educational Opportunities * Innovative Solutions * Leadership Excellence
AIU MISSION AND VISION STATEMENTS
Mission Statement
We maximize educational opportunities for all learners by responding to
the needs of our community with leading-edge, high-quality, costeffective programs and services.
Vision Statement
Educational excellence is a hallmark of our region with all learners having
access to the best services, enriching their lives and enabling their
contribution to a vibrant economy.
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
Accident or Illness During School
Attendance
Cell Phones
Classroom Conferences and Visitations
Community Based Instruction (CBI)
Code of Conduct
Student Rights
Confidential Communications
Freedom of Expression
Dress and Grooming
Searches
Exclusion of Students from School
Harassment
Student Responsibilities
Student Discipline
General School Rules
Weapons in the School
Drugs/Alcohol/Mood-Altering Substances
Bullying Policy
Use of Metal Detectors
Use of Calming Room
Dress Code
Early Arrival
Early Dismissal
Emergency School Closing
Graduation
Health Services
Medication Administration
Long-Term and PRN Medication
Short-Term Medication
Delivery of Medication to School
Immunization Requirements
Medical Exclusions
Head Lice
Individualized Education Program (IEP)
Internet Policy
Late Arrival/Tardy
Local Task Force
Lost and Found
Picture Taking
School Breakfast and Lunch
School Notices
School Programs
Student Records – Access, Confidentiality, and Dissemination (FERPA)
Student Transportation
Visitors in the Building
Video Surveillance Camera Notice
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ACCIDENT OR ILLNESS DURING SCHOOL
In the case of accident/illness, initial emergency treatment will be given
at the school. Parents/guardians will be notified and their instructions will
be followed. If parents/guardians cannot be contacted and the situation
requires additional treatment, the local emergency unit will be notified.
A student information packet will be sent to parents/guardians at the
opening of school. Parents and guardians will be required to complete
the Emergency Data Information form and submit any changes as they
may occur throughout the school year.
ATTENDANCE
The Compulsory School Attendance law of the Commonwealth of
Pennsylvania requires every child of compulsory school age to be in
school attendance unless absent for an approved reason and charges
the parents of the child with the responsibility for the child’s school
attendance. Compulsory school age refers to the period of a child’s life
from the time the child enters school as a beginner, which may be no
later than eight years of age, until the age of seventeen or graduation
from a high school, whichever occurs first.
All absences should be treated as unlawful until the school receives a
written excuse explaining the reason(s) for an absence.
Parents/guardians and students should submit the written explanation
within three (3) calendar days of the absence and if they fail to provide a
written excuse within three (3) days of the absence, the absence would
be permanently counted as unlawful. A maximum of ten (10) days of
cumulative lawful absences verified by parental notification may be
permitted during a school year. All absences beyond ten (10) cumulative
days require an excuse from a physician.
School attendance is a very important aspect in obtaining a formal
education. Absences are detrimental to the individual education plans
for your child. However, on occasion, it is recognized that your child may
be absent due to illness, death in the family, or natural disaster. In order to
comply with the Act VIII of Commonwealth of Pennsylvania School Code
a written excuse is mandatory. Excessive, unexcused absences will be
reported to the resident school district and will be subject to the
attendance policies and procedures of the resident school district.
A “Student Absentee Form” may be used and will enable our staff to be
more efficient in record keeping. When a student is absent from school,
he/she will bring a completed “Student Absentee Excuse” on the day
he/she returns.
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CELL PHONES
We understand there may be a need at times to communicate with your
child if there is an emergency. Should such an emergency arise, please
call the school office. Cell phones are not to be used during school hours.
Cell phones can be a major distraction to the educational process. If a
student is using a cell phone at school, the phone will be confiscated,
turned into the office and the parents will be requested to come to the
school to retrieve the phone.
CLASSROOM CONFERENCES AND VISITATIONS
Parent-Teacher Conferences are to be scheduled, when possible, at the
end of the day. Teachers or parents may request the conference.
Parents and teachers are encouraged to meet during the school year.
Parents are welcome to visit the classroom. However, in order to maintain
an effective educational program for all pupils, it is essential that as many
distractions as possible be eliminated. Parents must call the principal at
least 48 hours in advance to make arrangements for any classroom
visitation.
Pathfinder also welcomes classroom observations from community and
mental health professionals that work with our students. All school
visits/observations are scheduled through the classroom teacher. The
rationale for such visits shall also be provided when scheduled. Formal
observations must be scheduled at least two (2) days in advance of the
observation and with the approval of the classroom teacher to assure
that the time and day are feasible for such a visit. Approved observations
shall focus only on the child for whom the visit was approved and with the
purpose of observing the child’s behavioral/emotional functioning within
the school setting. Observations shall not exceed 30 minutes and shall not
interfere with the instructional or non- instructional operations or the safe
environment of the classroom and the school. Individuals conducting the
observation shall bring identification and will be asked to sign off on a
confidentiality form and a clearances verification form.
COMMUNITY BASED INSTRUCTION (CBI) FIELD TRIPS
The administration and teaching staff recognize that Community Based
Instruction/Experiences and Field Trips are an integral part of student
educational environment. The student’s academic situation, behavior,
attendance, and vocational and work-experience responsibilities will be
considered in determining what experiences are best suited for each
individual. Parent permission will be required for CBI & Field Trips. If a child
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is not participating in either activity, at parent request, it will be the
responsibility of the parent to keep the child home.
CODE OF CONDUCT AND STUDENT RIGHTS
The purpose of the Pathfinder School Student Code of Conduct is to
ensure a healthy and productive learning environment in our school, so
that the maximum potential for learning exists for all students. The Student
Code of Conduct outlines the rules and regulations that are designed to
maintain a standard of conduct in the schools operated by the Allegheny
Intermediate Unit.
The Student Code of Conduct includes many of the strategies used to
maintain a safe and disciplined environment. It also has a strong focus on
a cooperative effort among students, parents and school personnel and
helps to define the essential role of each.
The Student Code of Conduct is designed to give Pathfinder School
students and their parents/guardians an understanding of the general
rules and guidelines for attending and receiving an education in our
school. In case of a conflict between Allegheny Intermediate Unit Board
Policy and the provisions of the Student Code of Conduct, the policy most
recently adopted by the Allegheny Intermediate Unit Board will prevail.
The Student Code of Conduct is not a contract between the school and
the parents/guardians or students. It can be amended at any time at the
discretion of the Allegheny Intermediate Unit Board. If policy changes are
enacted during the school year, the building administrator will
communicate those changes to students, staff and parents/guardians.
Please review this document and help us in our task of guiding young
people towards assuming a responsible and productive role in our school
and in our society.
Confidential Communication - AIU Policy 207
The Board recognizes that particular written and oral communications
between students and certain Intermediate Unit personnel must be
confidential. Information received in confidence from a student may be
revealed to the student’s parent/guardian, designated administrator or
other appropriate authority by the staff member who received the
information when the health, welfare or safety of the student or other
persons clearly is in jeopardy.
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Freedom of Expression – AIU Policy 220
The right of public school students to freedom of speech is guaranteed by
the Constitution of the United States and the Constitution of the
Commonwealth. The Board respects the right of students to express
themselves in word or symbol and to distribute and post materials in areas
designated for posting as a part of that expression. The Board also
recognizes that exercise of that right must be limited by the Intermediate
Unit's responsibility to maintain an orderly school environment and to
protect the rights of all members of the school community.
Students have the right to express themselves unless such expression is
likely to or does materially or substantially interfere with the educational
process, including school activities, school work, or discipline and order on
school property or at school functions; threatens serious harm to the
school or community; encourages unlawful activity; or interferes with
another's rights
Dress and Grooming – AIU Policy 221
The Board has the authority to impose limitations on student dress code.
The Board will not interfere with the right of students and their
parents/guardians to make decisions regarding their appearance, except
when their choices disrupt the educational program of the Intermediate
Unit or school or constitute a health or safety hazard.
Searches – AIU Policy 226
The Board acknowledges the need to respect the rights of students to be
free from unreasonable searches and seizures while fulfilling the
Intermediate Unit’s interest in protecting and preserving the health, safety
and welfare of the school population, enforcing rules of conduct, and
maintaining an appropriate atmosphere conducive to learning.
Intermediate Unit officials have the authority to lawfully search students or
belongings, including lockers, storage spaces, automobiles, electronic
devices, purses, backpacks, clothing, and other possessions, without a
warrant, when in the Intermediate Unit, while attending an Intermediate
Unit program, while on Intermediate Unit grounds or when otherwise under
supervision of the Intermediate Unit, if there is a reasonable suspicion that
the place or thing to be searched contains prohibited contraband,
material that would pose a threat to the health, safety and welfare of the
school population, or evidence that there has been a violation of the law,
Board policy, or school rules. The scope and extent of searches must be
reasonable in relation to the nature of the suspected evidence,
contraband or dangerous material and to the grounds for suspecting that
it may be found in the place of things being searched.
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Exclusion of Students from School – AIU Policy 233
The Board recognizes that exclusion from the educational programs of the
Intermediate Unit, whether by suspension or expulsion, is the most severe
sanction that can be imposed on a student and one that cannot be
imposed without due process. The Intermediate Unit shall define and
publish the types of offenses that would lead to exclusion from the
Intermediate Unit programs. Exclusions affecting students with disabilities
shall be governed by applicable state and federal law and regulations.
Harassment – AIU Policy 248
The Board strives to provide a safe, positive learning climate for students in
Intermediate Unit programs. Therefore, it shall be the policy of the
Intermediate Unit to maintain an educational environment in which
harassment in any form is not tolerated. The Board prohibits all forms of
unlawful harassment of students and third parties by all Intermediate Unit
students and staff members, contracted individuals, vendors, volunteers,
and third parties in the programs. The Board encourages students and
third parties who have been harassed to promptly report such incidents to
the designated employees.
Student Responsibilities - AIU Policy 235
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Regular attendance
Conscientious effort in classroom work and homework
Conformance to Board policies and Intermediate Unit and school
rules and regulations
Respect for the rights of staff, students, administrators, and others
Expression of ideas and opinions in a respectful manner
Student Discipline - AIU Policy 218
Student conduct is closely related to learning, and an effective
educational program requires a safe and orderly school environment.
Allegheny Intermediate Unit Schools believe in and support a positive
approach to the management of student behavior. If student discipline is
necessary, it will be designed to allow for flexibility in accommodating
individual needs and situations.
Student discipline will adhere to the following policies set forth by the
Board:
Weapons - AIU Policy 218.1
Terroristic Acts - AIU Policy 218.2
Gangs - AIU Policy 218
Tobacco Use - AIU Policy 222
Controlled substances / paraphernalia - AIU Policy 227
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Suspension / Expulsion - AIU Policy 233
Bullying/Cyber bullying - AIU Policy
General School Rules:
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Upon arrival, students are to report directly to breakfast or
homeroom as directed by staff.
Students are expected to arrive for class on time.
Students are expected to follow the school dress code.
Students are expected to respect school and personal property.
The offending students will pay for damaged property.
TYLENOL, ASPIRIN, or other over the counter medication will not
be dispensed through the health office without a doctor’s
prescription.
Abusive, threatening or intimidating language and gestures will
not be permitted.
NO FIGHTING IS PERMITTED. Inappropriate physical contact with a
teacher or another student may be considered an assault. The
police will be contacted and charges may be filed.
NO SMOKING OR TOBACCO PRODUCTS ARE PERMITTED BY
STUDENTS ON SCHOOL PROPERTY. Act 145 of 1996 amends the
Crimes Code to include language-prohibiting students from
possessing or using tobacco in a school building, a school bus or
on school property. Any student found in possession or using
tobacco on the property at Pathfinder will be cited.
The possession or use of illegal or controlled substances is
PROHIBITED and must be reported to the police in accordance
with the Allegheny Intermediate Unit policy.
Students are PROHIBITED from possessing or storing weapons on
school property, in any school vehicle or any school-sponsored
activity. Any violations must be reported to the police in
accordance with the Allegheny Intermediate Unit policy.
To enforce this policy, principals may authorize, as legally
permitted:
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Unannounced inspections of pupils ‘desks or lockers;
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Supervised random inspection of buses and students
entering the building.
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The content of pockets and/or purses, if suspected of
possession of prohibited, stolen or illegal items;
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The use of hand-held or walk-through scanners/metal
detectors.
No student is permitted to drive to school.
Bullying will not be tolerated.
Only Pathfinder sponsored Fund Raisers are permitted within the
school.
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14. The use of electronic devices on school grounds during the
instructional time and in the hallways is strictly prohibited. Any
device brought to school by a student is solely the responsibility of
the student. Pathfinder School and staff will assume no
responsibility for lost or damaged items.
Violations of these rules will require disciplinary action by the teacher
and/or building administrator. Disciplinary action may range from verbal
reprimand, management support classroom, possible re-evaluation, and
could involve legal action in extreme cases.
All Allegheny Intermediate Unit School Policies are available for inspection
upon request.
Weapons In The School:
It shall be the purpose of this handbook to comply with Act 26 of 1995,
Section 1317.2 of the School Code relating to discipline resulting from the
possession of weapons by students on school property or at any school
sponsored activity. It shall further be the purpose to comply with the Safe
Schools Act, 24PS Subsection1301-A et seq., concerning reporting of
weapon policy violations in the school.
The term “weapon” shall include, but not be limited to, any knife, cutting
instrument, cutting tool, nunchaku, firearm, shotgun, rifle, and any other
tool, instrument, or implement capable of inflicting serious bodily injury.
Upon suspicion that a student possesses a weapon, the principal may
search the person, the clothing, and personal belongings including any
bag, purse, backpack, parcel, locker, and vehicle of the student in the
presence of another adult witness. If the student resists being searched,
the principal will immediately summon the police and request assistance
in this matter from the local police.
Students are prohibited from possessing or storing weapons on school
property or at any function, activity or event sponsored by the Allegheny
Intermediate Unit/Pathfinder. Students are also prohibited from possessing
a weapon on any home district school property (i.e. school bus).
Drugs:
In accordance with the Public School Code of 1949, the faculty and
administrative staff of the school are authorized, empowered and
directed to act in loco parentis and discipline any student who uses,
possesses, transports, sells, or purchases drugs or alcohol under such
circumstances as would be illegal under the laws of the Commonwealth
of Pennsylvania or the United States of America.
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DRUG/ALCOHOL/MOOD-ALTERING SUBSTANCE; Any alcohol or malt
beverage, any drug listed by law as a controlled substance, chemical,
abused substance or medication for which a prescription is required
under the law and/or any substance which is intended to alter mood.
Examples include, but are not limited to: beer, wine, liquor, anabolic
steroids, ephedra, marijuana, hashish, cocaine, crack, chemical solvents,
glue, “look-alike” substances, and any capsules or pills not registered with
the nurse annotated within the student’s health record and given in
accordance with the School Procedures for the administration of
medication to students in school.
DRUG-RELATED PARAPHERNALIA: Any utensil or item which, in the school’s
judgment, is associated with the use of drugs, alcohol or mood-altering
substances. Examples include, but are not limited to, papers, roach clips,
pipes, bowls and scales.
POSSESS; to have without any attempt to distribute. Drugs/alcohol found
in a student locker or book bag would also be categorized as possession.
DISTRIBUTE: To deliver, sell, pass, share or give any drug or alcohol as
defined by this policy. (A larger amount would suggest intent to
distribute.)
Students found to be in possession of the above mentioned
Drugs/Alcohol/Mood-Altering Substance, Paraphernalia, possession and
distribution shall be subject to the established policies of the home school
district
Bullying Policy:
The Allegheny Intermediate Unit recognizes the need to maintain a
learning and working environment that is free from bullying and
harassment. The Allegheny Intermediate Unit prohibits any and all forms
of bullying as it violates the basic right of students and staff to be in a safe,
orderly learning environment. Bullying may be a single incident or may
involve a pattern of repeated harmful behaviors by a person with physical
or social power toward a (person who is perceived as) less powerful
person. This may include a variety of behaviors, direct or indirect, physical
or nonphysical, which hurts, intimidates, threatens, embarrasses, or
humiliates the person(s). Bullying includes, but is not limited to: physical,
verbal, psychological or relational, and cyber bullying.
It is a violation of the policy for a student to bully another student while on
the premises of the Allegheny Intermediate Unit (Pathfinder School),
including on the school bus and bus stops to and from school and during
school-sponsored activities, whether on or off campus. Reports of
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bullying, whether physical or of a nonphysical form will be investigated
and appropriate action will be taken within the discipline codes of the
Allegheny Intermediate Unit and Pathfinder School to end the bullying.
Use of Metal Detectors:
A handheld metal detector (wand) may be used by staff to ensure that
students do not bring in any type of objects that could cause danger or
present safety concerns. The search consists of each student pulling out
their pockets (Pants / shorts / jackets) to make sure they have NOT
brought any personal items to school.
Calming Down Room:
In an attempt to provide students attending Pathfinder an environment
conducive to learning, it is necessary for the monitoring and
management of acceptable student behavior to occur. For the most
part, when student behavior is inappropriate it is a minor violation of
classroom/school rules and can be corrected within the student’s
classroom by his/her teacher. Occasionally, however, it becomes
necessary for the student that is unable to self-correct with the guidance
of the teacher to be escorted to the calming area for a specified period
of time during the school day. A staff member will monitor the student at
all times. This room is used on a very limited bases and only when a
student’s behavior poses a risk to himself/herself or others.
Dress Code:
A dress code is devised to establish a healthy, safe, and positive learning
environment. Proper dress is believed to be an avenue of transition for a
successful adult life. The following dress code will address these issues:
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Students are expected to wear appropriate clothing at all times
during the school year.
No hats, Bandannas, doo rags, hoods, or coats are to be worn in
the building. Exception to wearing of headgear may be granted
to an individual student by the administration for medical or
religious reasons.
Low rider pants or baggy pants worn below the buttocks exposing
underwear including ‘thongs’ are not permitted.
Torn or ripped clothing showing underwear or exposure of midriff,
thighs, or private body parts are not to be worn.
Spandex or other tight fitting apparel, such as; tank tops, halter
tops, bare chest or midriff, half-shirts or other provocative apparel
is. prohibited.
Due to safety concerns, students are not permitted to utilize the
roller part of the Heelee shoes during the school day,
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Wallet chains and spikes on wristbands or collars are prohibited.
No student shall wear any apparel or jewelry that has words, signs,
pictures or any combination thereof appearing on clothing or
jewelry advocating or promoting sexual activity, violence, or the
use of alcohol, drugs, that demeans or degrades another’s race,
sex, religious persuasion, national origin, handicap or disability.
Students will be expected to wear appropriate clothing required
for vocational and physical education classes determined by
each teacher’s specifications for their classroom.
Teachers and/or administration may ask students to remove
clothing that poses a safety risk and/or creates a distraction or
disruption to the educational process. Alternative clothing
options will be provided to students in these instances. Students
that do not comply with the school dress code may receive
disciplinary consequences.
EARLY ARRIVAL
We cannot accommodate early arrivals. Students will not be permitted
into the building earlier then 8:30 a.m.
EARLY DISMISSAL
Students are not to leave the building without permission. A written
request is required for early dismissal. The request must list the reason,
date, time, and relationship of the person picking up the student. An
adult must come into the school office to sign for the release of that
student.
EMERGENCY SCHOOL CLOSING
Pathfinder closing will be announced on KDKA-TV, WTAE-TV and WPXI-TV
as: PATHFINDER SCHOOL – Bethel Park. Pathfinder DOES NOT follow the
Bethel Park School closings and delays.
Parents are to follow the decision made by the school district in which
they live with regard to transportation, delays and closings during winter
weather. If your District closes as a result of an emergency/weather, and
you chose to transport your child to school, you will be responsible to pick
your child up at the close of school at 2:30, unless you have made
alternative arrangements with your District.
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GRADUATION
Determination for graduation is a decision of the IEP Team and is
coordinated through the transition planning process. Students who meet
the requirements of the Pennsylvania Department of Education and
requirements of the Allegheny Intermediate Unit and Local School District
will be awarded their School District’s Diploma. Students will have the
option of participating in their District’s Ceremony and/or Pathfinder
School’s Ceremony. All exceptional children have the right to continue
their education until 21. Any questions regarding graduation should be
addressed to the Principal.
HEALTH/NURSING SERVICES
A school nurse is on duty each school day. A complete School Health
and Procedure Policy has been adopted by the Allegheny Intermediate
Unit Exceptional Children’s Program. In order to keep health records
current, the nurse will request information at least, yearly. Periodically,
information will be sent home to parents to comply with state mandated
programs. Hearing/Vision screening will be conducted annually.
Medication Administration:
The school nurse is responsible for the administration and recording of
medication given during the school day. The nurse will review specific
medications that are to be administered and alert the school staff. In
addition, teachers should be informed if a student is to refrain from any
school activity (swimming, industrial arts, etc…) while on medication.
Please be aware that Community Based Instruction/Experiences will be
scheduled around time of medication administration. The school nurse
may confer with the parent, the prescribing physician, or the pharmacist
as needed.
Long Term Medication and PRN Medication:
Students who receive long-term medication or have medical
procedures/treatments done during the school day are required to have
a Medication/Treatment Form completed by their physician. The form
must be completed yearly. No student should receive medications or
treatments on an order received during the previous school year. Students
who receive medication on an as needed basis (Tylenol/acetaminophen
for headaches, discomfort or pain, ibuprofen for menstrual cramps,
antihistamines for allergy symptoms, etc…) are also required to have a
Medication/Treatment form completed yearly by their physician.
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Short Term Medication:
Short-term medications (such as antibiotics, cough syrup and
acetaminophen) are given as prescribed by a doctor with a note faxed
by a doctor and with a note of permission from the parent. The note
should state the name of the medication, why it is to be given, and the
dates and exact time it should be administered. The medication must be
sent to school in the container in which it was purchased.
Delivery of Medication To School:
Certain guidelines are recommended for the delivery of medication to
school. Medication should be in a childproof container (in the
prescription container) labeled with the name of the medication,
prescribed dosage, student’s name, and physician’s name. Medication
should be given directly to the van or bus driver who in turn delivers it to a
responsible person at the child’s school. For the safety of all students,
parents should avoid sending medication in lunch boxes, student’s coat
pockets, etc…parents and students are to be reminded that the school is
not permitted to administer medication (prescription/over the counter) to
students without medical orders from a licensed physician or dentist.
Medication sent to school must be in the original prescription bottle with
appropriate labeling. Medication forms, provided by the school nurse are
to be completed by both physician/dentist and the parents prior to the
medication being dispensed at school.
Immunization Requirements:
If your child has a medical exemption from immunization, the school nurse
will need yearly documentation from the physician/designee indicating
that the vaccine(s) would be detrimental to your child; unless
documented history of a severe allergic adverse reaction to previous
medication.
All grades K-12:
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4 doses of tetanus (1 dose after 4th birthday); 3 doses if series
started after 7 years of age, 4 doses of diphtheria (1 dose after
the 4th birthday); 3 doses if series started after 7 years of age
3 doses of polio
2 doses of measles
2 doses of mumps
1 dose of rubella
3 doses of hepatitis B
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2 doses of varicella or written statement from physician/designee
indicating month and year of disease or serologic proof of
immunity.
Grades 7-12 (in addition to the above vaccines)
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1 dose of tetanus/diphtheria/pertussis (Tdap) – also known as
Adacel or Boostrix
1 dose of meningitis vaccine – also known as Menactra
Medical Exclusions:
Students who have been diagnosed by a physician or are suspected of
having a disease by the school nurse shall be excluded from school for
the period indicated by regulations of the Department of Health for
certain specified diseases and infectious conditions.
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Varicella (chickenpox); seven to ten days from the onset of the
rash;
Acute contagious conjunctivitis (pink eye); 24 hours after
beginning the prescribed medication.
Strep throat; 24 hours after beginning appropriate antibiotic.
The school nurse shall report the presence of suspected communicable
diseases to the appropriate local health authority, as required by the
Department of Health.
*As per the Allegheny County Health Department regulations; refer to
www.achd.net for continuous updates.
If your child has any of the following symptoms, he/she should be kept
home from school:
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Vomiting
Diarrhea
Suspicious rash
Enlarged tender lymph nodes (glands)
Fever of 100 or above
Persistent coughing
Open bleeding/seeping wounds
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Head Lice:
When a student’s hair is inspected and evidence of live lice is observed,
parents/caregivers will be notified immediately and may be required to
pick the child up. Some school district policies will not permit the students
to be transported. In these cases, students may be excluded from school
and will be readmitted after treatment and examination by either the
Pathfinder School or home district school nurse, depending upon the
policies of the home district.
INDIVIDUALIZED EDUCATION PROGRAM (IEP)
The IEP is required for each exceptional child. Each school year an IEP
conference will be conducted for each student. Parents will be notified in
writing of the conference date. IEPs may be requested at a mutually
agreed upon time. Further information about IEPs may be obtained by
calling the Principal.
INTERNET POLICY
The Allegheny Intermediate Unit Board of directors recognizes the Internet
as a valuable resource that promotes and enhances a student’s
educational experience. Experts for the Student Internet Acceptable Use
policy, Series 5010 reads as follows:
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Students shall not access an AIU computer technology prior to
the submitted completion of the Student Internet Acceptable Use
Authorization form by student, parent and/or guardian. An
authorization form will be provided to each parent/student.
Students shall not access inappropriate material on the Internet,
including pornography, obscenity, child pornography, or other
materials that may be “harmful to minors”.
Students shall not use electronic mail (email).
Students shall not use chat rooms.
Students shall not use forms of direct electronic communications
(such as newsgroups and instant messaging).
Students shall not engage in unauthorized access of computers,
including “hacking”.
Students shall not engage in unlawful activities.
Students shall not disclose, use, or disseminate any personal
identification information of themselves or others.
Violation of AIU’s Student Internet Acceptable Use Policy in any
way may result in the loss of Internet privileges provided by the
AIU schools. Disciplinary action may be taken in accordance
with existing AIU policy. When necessary, the AIU may call in law
enforcement agencies.
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LATE ARRIVAL/TARDY
When your child arrives late to school, you must report to the office to sign
your child in and secure an admittance slip.
LOCAL TASK FORCE
The Local Task Force serves as a resource for children with all disabilities
and their families in the 42 school districts in Allegheny County. Their role is
to communicate needs and problems to the appropriate sources.
Meetings are held the first Wednesday of every month except July and
August at the Allegheny Intermediate Unit offices at 475 E. Waterfront Dr,
Homestead, PA 15120 at 7:00 PM.
LOST AND FOUND
The school is not responsible for the lost articles. We suggest that parents
use a laundry marker to put their child’s name on articles that are easy to
misplace, such as boots, gym clothes, etc… Parents should not permit
students to bring valuables to school. Lost and found articles are placed
in a container and can be claimed in the office.
PICTURE TAKING
On several occasions throughout the school year, we receive requests to
take pictures/video of our students for possible publication in the media.
Parent permission is required. It is important that we foster good public
relations to operate our program at peak efficiency. We only honor
requests from established news media and organizations interested in the
welfare or our students.
SCHOOL BREAKFAST AND LUNCH
The Allegheny Intermediate Unit participates in the National School Lunch
Program. Free breakfast and lunches are served daily to students who are
eligible. A lunch menu will be sent home monthly. Students who bring
their lunch may purchase milk and other a-la-carte items. Detailed
information about the lunch program is sent home at the beginning of the
school year.
Pathfinder School recognizes that student wellness and proper nutrition
are related to students’ physical well-being, growth, development, and
readiness to learn. This year we were fortunate enough to participate in
the “Fresh Fruits and Vegetables” grant. In order to remain in compliance
with nutrition guidelines, all foods available at Pathfinder School shall be
offered to students with consideration for promoting student health.
Parents are encouraged to send in healthy foods for their child’s lunch. All
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classroom events will only include healthy snacks. Do not send in
cupcakes, donuts, candy, pop, etc. for class parties. Nonfood items for
celebrations are encouraged over food items. If you would like to provide
some type of treat for a classroom event but are unsure if it is considered
a “healthy snack”, please feel free to contact your child’s teacher and
discuss this further.
SCHOOL NOTICES
Throughout the school year, students will be expected to hand carry
notices/communication notebooks in order to facilitate communication.
Please check backpacks/book bags daily. The school staff will do the
same.
SCHOOL PROGRAMS
Your local school district is responsible for the education of all their
resident students. Through Pathfinder School, the Allegheny Intermediate
Unit 3 Educational Services and Supports Division has been charged with
the responsibility for delivering the special education program. Listed
below are programs that are provided for all exceptional students at
Pathfinder School.
The Special Programs * are as follows:

Autistic Support (AS)

Life Skills Support (LSS)

Multi-Disabilities Support (MDS)/Physical Support (PS)
*Special education State Regulations apply
The Vocational Programs * are as follows:
Full-time students:

Automobile Detailing

Building and Grounds

Consumer Science – Home Economics and Food Service

Clerical

Work Activities Center (WAC)
Part-time Students:
Pre-vocational 4 class rotation:

Auto Detailing

Building and Grounds

Consumer Science

Daily Living, Clerical and Job Social Skills.
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*Required Applications must be completed each year.
The Special Area Courses are as follows:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
Art
Home Economics
Industrial Arts
Music
Physical Education – adapted physical education, swimming and
strengthening and conditioning.
Special Services * are as follows:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
Blind/Visually Impaired
Deaf/Hearing Impaired
Occupational/Physical Therapy (OT)(PT)
Speech/Language
Travel Instruction
Transition
*Eligible Students Only
STUDENT RECORDS –ACCESS, CONFIDENTIALITY AND DESSEMINATION
(FERPA)
The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA), a Federal law,
requires that Pathfinder School, with certain exceptions, obtain your
written consent prior to the disclosure of personally identifiable information
from your child’s education records. However, Pathfinder School may
disclose appropriately designated “directory information” without written
consent, unless you have advised the Pathfinder School to the contrary in
accordance with Pathfinder School procedures. The primary purpose of
directory information is to allow the Pathfinder School to include this type
of information from your child’s education records in certain school
publications, such as the yearbook, and to share directory information
with community agencies.
Directory information, which is information that is generally not considered
harmful or an invasion of privacy if released, can also be disclosed to
outside organizations without a parent’s prior written consent. Outside
organizations include, but are not limited to, Allegheny County Office of
Behavioral Health and the Office of Intellectual Disabilities. In addition,
two federal laws require local educational agencies (LEAs) receiving
assistance under the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965
(ESEA) to provide military recruiters, upon request, with the following
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information – names, addresses and telephone listings – unless parents
have advised the LEA that they do not want their student’s information
disclosed without their prior written consent.
If you do not want Pathfinder School to disclose directory information from
your child’s education records without your prior written consent, you must
notify Pathfinder School in writing by September 11, 2015. Pathfinder
School has designated the following information as directory information:
•Student’s name
•Student’s telephone listing
•Student’s address
•Student’s date of birth
•Student’s date of attendance
•Student’s grade level
•The most recent educational agency or institution attended
The Pathfinder School also has a procedure to collect and maintain
student records, ensuring their privacy, and giving pupils and parents the
right to review them. Parents may request copies of student records.
Requests must be in writing. The Educational Records Plan for Exceptional
Students is available for examination in the school office. Upon
graduation student records, including academic and health, are returned
to the student’s district of residency.
STUDENT TRANSPORTATION
Transportation is provided by your local school district. Students must ride
buses specifically assigned to them and may not ride buses from other
districts. Students are expected to comply with all bus safety rules to
ensure their safety as well as the safety of others. Any questions or
problems with your transportation should be directed to the transportation
officer in your school district.
Students are not permitted to drive to school nor ride to school with
anyone other than their parent and/or adult guardian designee.
Students, who are transported to school other than by their district bus,
must come to the office and sign in along with the person who transports
the student. Transportation related issues are handled by your school
district. I.e. late bus pickup/drop off; personnel issues; etc…
VISITORS
In an effort to ensure the safety of students and staff, Pathfinder School
uses a security system that includes the following:
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


Locked doors from the outside
Intercom system and security camera installed on the front doors
(left of the building only)
Visitors must identify themselves and the purpose of business
before they are given access to the building
All visitors (anyone who is non-staff/student) to the Pathfinder School must
report to the office. When in the office the individual(s) will be asked to
sign in with name, date, time, and destination and wear a name badge
while in the building. The visitor is also expected to sign out when he/she
leaves the building and return the badge.
VIDEO SURVEILLANCE CAMERA NOTICE
Use of Video Cameras - AIU Policy 709.1
The Intermediate Unit has elected to place video surveillance cameras
inside and outside of the school building, parking lots, and athletic
facilities and fields. Cameras are placed in public areas in the buildings
where individuals traditionally do not have a reasonable expectation of
privacy, including, but not limited to, outdoor areas, public entranceways
into buildings, hallways, cafeterias, gymnasiums, and auditoriums. Areas
chosen for surveillance shall be where surveillance is a necessary and
viable deterrent.
Cameras are not positioned in areas where individuals have a legitimate
right to expect privacy, such as lavatories, locker rooms, change rooms,
and school nurse examination rooms. Cameras are in operation at all
times.
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475 East Waterfront Drive • Homestead, PA 15120
412-394-5700
Dr. Linda B. Hippert, Executive Director
The Allegheny Intermediate Unit is an equal opportunity education institution and will not
discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, ancestry, religion, sex, sexual orientation,
age, handicap, or limited English proficiency in its educational programs, services, facilities,
activities, or employment practices as required by Title IX of the 1972 Educational Amendments,
Title VI and VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, as amended, Section 504 Regulations of the
Rehabilitation Act of 1973, the Age Discrimination in Employment Act of 1975, Section 204
Regulations of the 1984 Carl D. Perkins Act, the Americans with Disabilities Act, or any other
applicable federal or state laws. Any person who believes that s/he has been subjected to
discrimination shall report all incidents of such conduct to Patricia Connolly, Title VII/IX Compliance
Officer, Allegheny Intermediate Unit, 475 East Waterfront Drive, Homestead, PA 15120 (412) 3945951 or William Addy, Director of Human Resources, Allegheny Intermediate Unit, 475 East
Waterfront Drive, Homestead, PA 15120 (412) 394-5957.
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