Highlander Highlights

Transcription

1 Baldwin-Whitehall School District Traditional Values, Quality Education and a World of Opportunity Highlander Highlights School Year Summer Edition Awesome Achievement Distinguished Graduate National Honor Society National Art Honor Society President s Award of Excellence Jaclyn, pictured receiving her diploma from Dr. Lutz, is the only student in the Class of 2013 to earn recognition in all four categories. Jaclyn Sirc

2 Page 2 Baldwin-Whitehall School District District wide Message From Title the Superintendent Dear Members of the BWSD Community, The summer months provide us the opportunity to spend time with our families, taking in a ballgame, splashing around in a pool, or just enjoying a pace that is a bit less frenetic and busy. In the school district, summer months are a time of reflection on the previous school year and planning for the next. Administrators are busy interviewing candidates for open positions, creating master schedules for staff and students, and ensuring instructional materials are ready for the first days of school. Custodial and maintenance staff is diligently working in each of the schools fixing, cleaning and painting while transportation employees ensure every vehicle is inspected and safe to transport our children. Summer in a school district is certainly a busy time of year! Recognition and celebration of achievements are an important component within the school district. This edition of Highlander Highlights is dedicated to the accomplishments of the school year. The school year began with great excitement with staff and students in August of 2012, culminating with all the pomp and circumstance of commencements in June. We have much to be proud of in our students achievements in academics, art and music, as well as athletics. Another great success this year was the creation and approval of the school budget that lowered millage to while remaining revenue neutral. The budget provides for significant investments in education programs while decreasing costs in other areas. I am grateful of working with a Board of Directors that places the highest importance on education and commits appropriate resources consistent with that focus. With the hot days of summer upon us, grab that tall glass of lemonade and your summer edition of Highlander Highlights and settle in to a cool, shady place and share in the celebration of the accomplishments of the school year. These highlights demonstrate not only how the Baldwin-Whitehall School District truly is a district of traditional values, quality education, and a world of opportunity but also as an affordable place to live and raise a family. Sincerely, Dr. Randal A. Lutz Superintendent of Schools Upcoming Events 1st Day of School...August 26 No School, Labor Day...September 2 HMS Open House...September 17 BHS Open House...September 19 MES & PES Open House...September 24 WES Open House...September 26

3 Highlander Highlights Page 3 Dear Neighbor, DISTRICT WIDE Message from the Title Board President On behalf of the Baldwin-Whitehall Board of School Directors, I hope this message finds you and your family well and enjoying summer. Please join me in congratulating the Class of 2013, the 73rd graduating class of Baldwin High School. This fine group of young boys and girls has been given a solid foundation through our schools to begin the next phase of their journey. Each student has certainly taken advantage of different opportunities throughout their educational career, and for these opportunities, our graduates must always be grateful to their families, educators, and you, the taxpayers of our communities. It is the parents of our students and the residents of our three communities coupled with the dedication of our educators that prepare our students to be productive citizens. I thank each of these groups for their dedication to the success of our children. The School Directors has challenged Administration to raise the bar academically, hold our employees to the highest levels of accountability, and to maintain a fiscally responsible annual budget. I am happy to report that the Administration has accepted the challenge and is working hard to achieve these three objectives. The Board has worked with Dr. Lutz for goals for the school year. Those goals and Dr. Lutz s plan of action are on the District website. We anticipate that Dr. Lutz will achieve the goals set forth for himself as well as the District. The Board has also listened to parents and placed emphasis this year on Baldwin High School s Guidance Department. Stephanie McHugh, Guidance Supervisor, has brought change and a new direction for the department. Mrs. McHugh presented a State of the Guidance Department this past spring. We are optimistic that the Guidance Department will continue on its course of attending to the needs of all students. We are especially encouraged to hear of the collaboration between Harrison Middle School and the high school the bridge that has always been discussed, is now being addressed. For the sixth straight year, there was NO tax increase in the Baldwin-Whitehall School District. For three consecutive years, we lowered the school property taxes and the last three years we kept the taxes at the same rate. We are the only school district out of 500 in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania NOT to raise taxes for the last six years. We have an annual budget that is fiscally responsible to the taxpayers as well as providing for the educational needs of our children. As you will note on the budget page, over 70% of our budget is dedicated to employee salary and benefits. Of concern to the District, are these rising costs as well as the rising costs of our children selecting education through Cyber and Charter schools as opposed to attending our schools. The District continues to maintain a healthy fund balance and the unaudited 2012 fund balance is 12 million dollars. I hope you enjoy the following pages filled with the accomplishments and highlights of our students. On behalf of my colleagues: Kevin Fischer, Diana Kazour, Martin Michael Schmotzer, George Pry, Nancy Crowder, Tracy Macek, Larry Pantuso, and Ray Rosing, I want to wish you and your family a happy, healthy and safe summer! Sincerely, Nancy Sciulli DiNardo President, BWSD Board of School Directors

4 Page 4 Baldwin-Whitehall School District Guidance Department Post-Secondary Schools of the Class of 2013 Allegheny College Art Institute of Pittsburgh Baldwin-Wallace College Bella Capelli s Beauty School Bradford School of Business California University of Pennsylvania Carlow College Clarion University of Pennsylvania Community College of Allegheny County (CCAC) DePaul University Douglas Education Center Duquesne University Eckerd College Edinboro University of Pennsylvania Fashion Institute of Technology George Mason University Grove City College Indiana University of Pennsylvania (IUP) LaRoche College Massachusetts Institute of Technology Mercyhurst College Montgomery Community College Muskingum University Northwestern University Norwich University Ohio University PA College of Technology Pennsylvania State University (Penn State) Pitt Johnstown Pittsburgh Institute of Aeronautics Pittsburgh Technical Institute Point Park University Robert Morris University Rosedale Seton Hill University Slippery Rock University St. Vincent s College Steel Center Area Vocational Technical School Thiel College University of Applied Arts in Vienna University of Dayton University of Pennsylvania University of Pitt at Greensburg University of Pittsburgh (Pitt) University of Richmond University of Tennesse UPMC Shadyside School of Nursing Vassar College Vet Tech Institute Villanova University Washington and Jefferson College Waynesburg University West Liberty University West Virginia University AP and HONORS Classes Assign Summer Work In an effort to continue learning and growth over the summer months as well as to get a jump start on the school year, the process of summer assignments for AP and Honors classes has been formalized. The assignments were carefully designed to provide students with learning opportunities that will set them up for success in the new school year. Go to /BHS for a complete list of assignments in all subjects. Senior Volunteer Hours 14,834 29,777 27,

5 Highlander Highlights Page 5 Baldwin High School Baldwin Girls Lacrosse Hosts 4th Annual Talent Show This past winter, over 200 people filled the Baldwin High School Auditorium to see a wide-array of talent including singing, dancing, and acting. Funds raised through the event supported the Girls Lacrosse team throughout the season. Additionally, the team made a local charitable donation. Senior Daniel McTiernan played piano and sang his rendition of a Justin Timberlake medley to capture 1st place. Dan injected his brand of humor into the act while a crowd of screaming teenagers cheered. The 3rd place winners were seniors Darien Babinger and Steven Andrulonis. The duo entertained with their own creation called Cup Song Mash Up, which was a unique mixture of singing, clapping, and beats created by drumming with cups. Sha-quea Hatch and A shanti Anderson hilariously bantered their way to 2nd place by keeping the crowd laughing with their acting routine. Prom Fashion Show Sponsored by BHS Senior Class Pictured left are seniors Daniel McTiernan and Jaclyn Sirc; Pictured above: Front Row L-R: Jacob Gruber, Caroline Witt, Daniel McTiernan, Jaclyn Sirc, Luke Dowker; Second Row L-R: Maura Kay, Stephanie Bott, Nigel Armbruster, Daniel Goga, Mark Demore, Jaime Colosimo and Andrew Pryor Mock Trial Baldwin High School has competed in the Allegheny County Pennsylvania Bar Association Mock Trial Competition for the past twelve years. It is a fantastic learning experience for high school students as they develop higherlevel thinking skills, problem solving skills, and public speaking skills through an authentic and high-stakes experience.

6 Page 6 Baldwin-Whitehall School District Senior Prom 2013 Title

7 Highlander Highlights Page 7 Top of the Shop Award The Top of the Shop awards are given once each semester. Recipients are based on conduct, attendance, proficiency in course work, and professionalism. K U D O S John Ryan Food Service Matthew Mient Automotive Mechanics Morgan Hudson Health Assistant Mark Salera Food Service Rachael Samarco Health Assistant Baldwin High School Steel Center Award Winners Steel Center provides quality career and technical education to meet the changing workforce needs of our region. They service 11 different school districts in southern Allegheny County. A half day of instruction is available in 19 different technologies for students in 10th, 11th, and 12th grades. Since 1964, Steel Center s goal has been to assist students in developing the knowledge, skills, and attitude necessary to be successful in their chosen career. More information is available at or by calling Extra Effort Award The Extra Effort Award recipients are chosen by shop instructors each quarter for their demonstration of outstanding attitude, work ethics, attendance and dependability. Laney Barone Health Assistant Daniel Costantini Carpentry Tabitha Coyne Health Assistant Lee Crowder Protective Services Levi Garrett Carpentry Adam Grosse HVAC Ashley Haines Health Assistant Alex Maletto Advertising & Design Timothy Patrakis Retail Food Merchandising and Production Dustin Pyritz (2x) Electrical Construction Suzanna Powell Cosmetology Mark Salera Food Service Gwendolyn Schmidt Advertising & Design Molly Seidel Food Service Courtney Vogelsberger Cosmetology John Wagner Protective Services Maura Williams Cosmetology Marissa Wood Baking

8 Page 8 Baldwin-Whitehall School District Athletic Department Thanks Mom! All-Section/All-State All-State Pole Vault Luke Aaron Boys All-Section Soccer Blaise Pfaff Jon DeGregorio Girls All-Section Soccer Stephanie Mizla Alexa Stahl Alicia Mastroianni Two of Baldwin s top athletes signed letters of intent to schools in the National Collegiate Athletic Association. Stephanie Mizla signed to play soccer at Seton Hill University, and Dorian Brown signed to play football at Ohio University. Good Job and Good Luck!!! PA Indoor Track & Field Championship Luke Aaron placed 3rd in the Pole Vault. Gary Jackson placed 11th in both the Long Jump and Triple Jump. New Fighting Highlander Record Holders Congratulations to the the following members of the Varsity Swim Team on their performances at the WPIAL Championships: Fallon Ferrari took 7th place Diving Jillian Pritchard set a new school record in the 200 Freestyle Brendan Antenucci, Nick Roth, Trey Brown and Zach Ward set a new school record in the Boys 200 Medley Relay Jillian Pritchard, Sara Conklin, Kaylee Krugh and Katie Werner set a new school record in the Girls 200 Freestyle Relay Congratulations to Coach Ed Helbig who was inducted into the PA Track & Field Coaches Hall of Fame in February. In March, George Kelly was named Western Pennsylvania s Most Positive High School Athlete in the sport of Boy s Cross Country. George was nominated for displaying the Seven Definitions of a Positive Athlete: Optimistic Attitude, Encouraging Teammate, Servant Leader, Heart for Others, Admits Imperfections, Always Gives 100% and Puts Team First. He, along with winners in 25 other sports, was personally recognized by Hines Ward in a ceremony in April at the Senator John Heinz History Center and Western Pennsylvania Sports Museum.

9 Highlander Highlights Page 9 BHS Highlander Pride Awards The Highlander Pride recognition program continues to recognize the positive contributions of Baldwin High School students and teachers both within and outside of the school district. Students, teachers and community members can submit electronic nominations utilizing the Purbalite s web site ( October Most School Spirit Ms. Melanie Fisher, Natalie Brown, Juliana Fortunato, Stephanie Mizla, Courtney Butler, Anthony Barbano, Pat Sites, David Scott and Rocco Ruscitto November Service Award Mr. Tom Simcho, Erin Markosky, Jill McDonnell, Jackie Sirc, Allison Koerbel, Emily Isaacs, Dan McTiernan, Kalee George and Justin Jurczyk December Creativity Award Ms. Alex Frankhouser, Lizzie Geis, Alicia Mastroianni, Caitlin Brown, Scott Friedman, Dan DeSimone, Connor Doran, Jamal Habboushi and RJ Stamer January Extra Effort Award Mr. Chris Ross, Caneil Boyle, Alexandria Marx, Hannah Scherz, Dennis Doyle, Dustin Shore, Christina Marcic, Caroline Witt and Luke Dowker. February Positive Role Model Award Ms. Kristal Seale, Nick Boeggeman, Maggie Brooks, Evan Isaacs, Maura Kay, Carla Nicola, Christy Paterni, Luke Smorey and Mackenzie Voelker March Leadership Award Ms. Amy Barno & Mr. Karl Geisler, Desiree Allridge, Alex Butelli, Callie Corcoran, Ashley Czerniewski, Eric Escajada, Jamal Habboushi, Jacob Naylor and Lexy Steppling April Most Responsible Award Ms. Donna Vecchio, Dennis Doyle, Mark Demore, Morgan Geyer, Bridget Kaufman, Briana Martin, Amanda Pearsol, Samantha Scherrer and Morgan Schaming May Most Improved Award Mrs. Sara Fiorill, Shane Becker, Chris Belle, Alexandra Claherty, Dylan Davey, James Garvey, Ladasha Howard, Mark Marks and Jake Proto

10 Page 10 Baldwin-Whitehall School District Baldwin High School Art Competition Winners 2013 Scholastic Art and Writing Competition Approximately 2100 pieces of art work were submitted at the regional level. The six pieces shown from left to right were Baldwin High School s award winners: Congratulations! Alicia Mastroianni won an Honorable Mention and a $1,500 scholarship in PTI s Visions and Voice competition. Kayla Keefer, Grade 12 - Charcoal Portrait: Honorable Mention Alicia Mastroianni, Grade 11 - Colored Pencil Drawing: Honorable Mention Carley Malenka, Grade 12 - Acrylic Painting: Honorable Mention Kayla Keefer, Grade 12 - Ceramic Sculpture: Silver Key Dennis Doyle, Grade 10 - Pencil Drawing: Gold Key Hunter Brian, Grade 9 - Metal Ornament: Gold Key

11 Highlander Highlights Page 11 Music Department Congratulations PMEA Participants PMEA District Band Kate Marze, Flute Sarah Dillinger, Clarinet Laura Stumpf, Flute Callie Corcoran, Oboe Marissa Eynon, Clarinet* Sydney Harsh, Clarinet Dan DeSimone, Trumpet Tom Werkmeister, Trombone *Of those, Marissa Eynon was selected to participate in Region Band at Mercer High School on March 7-9. PMEA Honors Band Marissa Eynon, Clarinet Stephanie Pavlick, Tuba Connor Doran, Piano In January Baldwin High School hosted the PMEA District Band Concert. One hundred fifty students from three counties participated. They first auditioned for Region Band, then had the opportunity to rehearse for two days with Andrew Yozviak, the guest conductor, who is the director of bands at West Chester University. The festival concert, unfortunately, was cancelled due to inclement weather. However, the event was a great success. Dan DeSimone, Trumpet PMEA Elementary Sing Fest Dominique DiDomenico Nicholas Dolan Avery Greenaway Mia Fischetti Julia Lombardi Duy Nguyen Emily Tierney Morgan Traud Jacob Vallus Duy Nguyen Visit the Music Department Website /music PMEA Jr. High District Orchestra Brandon Kikuchi, Violin Kevin Skinkis, Violin PMEA Jr. High District Band Joshua Dillinger, Tenor Sax Michael Gorse, Tuba Haley Moore, French Horn Malia Mueller, Calrinet PMEA Jr. High District Chorus Maggie Hines Stevie Kisty Katie Ryan David Wilhelm PMEA District Orchestra Kalee George, Trumpet Stephanie Pavlick, Viola Molly Whittaker, Violin PMEA Elementary Band Fest Mandi Bellas, Flute Alex Bradley, Trumpet Sarah Burry, Clarinet Jordyn Dawley, Trumpet Jacob Kemerer, Bass Clarinet Julia Lombardi, Alto Sax Daniel Mezhinsky, Alto Sax Rebecca Pantone, Clarinet Devon Schroeder, French Horn Emma Toman, Trombone

12 Page 12 Baldwin-Whitehall School District Best Musical The Gene Kelly Awards for Excellence in High School Musical Theater For the second year in a row, Baldwin High School was awarded the Gene Kelly Award for Best Musical Budget Category III. Since 1999, Baldwin has earned seven Best Musical nominations and is proud to add a second Best Musical Award to their theater arts accomplishments. Baldwin High School s performance of Hairspray was recognized with six Kelly nominations: Best Ensemble, Best Lighting Design, Best Scenic Design, and Best Musical. In addition, Maggie Brooks received a nomination for Best Actress for her role as Tracy and Greg Arcuri a nomination for Best Supporting Actor for his role as Edna.

13 Highlander Highlights Page 13 Harrison Middle School Fiddler on the Roof Jr. was a huge success at Harrison Middle School this year! Students performed to four sold-out crowds! The show, as is tradition, was double cast. The role of Tevye being shared by Nick Cortazzo and David Wilhelm, Golde was played by Maggie Hines and Hannah Shore and the trio of daughters were shared by Katie Zemaitis, Yasmine Degnan, Mikayla Davic, Avery Greenaway, Carly Santillo and Erin McGrady. Front row: Yasmine Degnan, Erin McGrady and Avery Greenaway Back row: Olivia Brophy, David Wilhelm, Hannah Shore and Bethani Rechtorik Front row: Mikayla Davic, Katie Zemaitis and Carly Santillo Back row: Cami Ryan, Nick Cortazzo, Maggie Hines and Sarah Doran HMS PINK OUT!

14 Baldwin-Whitehall School District School Calendar First Day of School: August 26, 2013 Last Day of School: June 6, 2014 AUGUST 2013 M T W Th F No School, New Teacher Orientation No School, Professional Development Day 23 No School, Clerical 26 First Day of School Teachers: 9 Students: 5 FEBRUARY 2014 M T W Th F Evening Parent-Teacher Conferences 14 Early Dismissal K-8, Parent- Teacher Conferences 17 No School, Presidents Day 21 Interims Due 24 Interims Issued Teachers: 19 Students: 19 SEPTEMBER 2013 M T W Th F No School, Labor Day 17 Early Dismissal HMS Only, Open House 19 Early Dismissal BHS Only, Open House 24 Early Dismissal MES & PES Only, Open House 26 Early Dismissal WES Only, Open House 27 Interims Due 30 Interims Issued Teachers: 20 Students: 20 MARCH 2014 M T W Th F End of 3 rd Nine Weeks 28 No School, AM Professional Development/PM Clerical 31 Beginning of 4 th Nine Weeks Teachers: 21 Students: 20 OCTOBER 2013 M T W Th F No School, Professional Development Day 29 End of 1 st Nine Weeks 30 Beginning of 2 nd Nine Weeks Teachers: 23 Students: 22 APRIL 2014 M T W Th F * 18 21* Report Cards Issued Spring Break 17 *Third Snow Make-Up Day 21 *Second Snow Make-Up Day Teachers: 19 Students: 19 NOVEMBER 2013 M T W Th F No School, AM Professional Development/PM Clerical 11 Report Cards Issued Early Dismissal K-8, Parent- Teacher Conferences 27 Early Dismissal, Thanksgiving Break Thanksgiving Break Teachers: 19 Students: 18 MAY 2014 M T W Th F Early Dismissal BHS Only/Interims Due 5 Interims Issued 20 No School K-11, Professional Development, Senior Project 26 No School, Memorial Day Teachers: 21 Students: 20 DECEMBER 2013 M T W Th F Thanksgiving Break 6 Interims Due 9 Interims Issued Winter Break Teachers: 14 Students: 14 JUNE 2014 M T W Th F Graduation, Last Day for Seniors, 6 Early Dismissal, Last Day of School 9 No School, Clerical 16 Final Report Cards Mailed Teachers: 6 Students: 5 Total - Teachers: 193 Students: 182 JANUARY 2014 M T W Th F * Winter Break 17 End of 2 nd Nine Weeks 20 No School, AM Professional Development/PM Clerical 21 No School, Professional Development Day/*First Snow Make-Up Day 22 Beginning of 3 rd Nine Weeks 27 Report Cards Issued Teachers: 22 Students: 20 February 01- February 28, 2014 Grades 6-8 Writing Field March 17 - March 21, 2014 Grades 3-5 English Language Arts March 17 - March 28, 2014 Grades 6-8 Math & Reading PSSA Testing March 24 - March 28, 2014 Grades 3-5 Math Grade 8 Writing April 28, 2014 Grades 4-8 Science Early Dismissal Times BHS 11:30 a.m. HMS 12:15 p.m. MES/PES/WES 1:00 p.m. Keystone Testing Grade 11 Winter Wave 1 December 2013 Winter Wave 2 January 2014 Spring Window May 2014

15 REVENUES Baldwin-Whitehall School District Final Baldwin-Whitehall Annual Budget School District Final Annual Budget BWSD Final Annual Budget Actual Actual Actual Actual Actual Actual Budget Budget Final Budget Final Budget Increase/ (Decrease) % Change Increase/ (Decrease) % Change 6000 Local Sources REVENUES 38,978,192 38,896,961 38,879,366 38,087,125 39,992,547 1,905, % 7000 StateSources 6000 Local Sources 17,747,481 38,978,192 18,031,289 38,896,961 18,491,244 38,879,366 18,710,325 38,087,125 19,756,891 39,992,547 1,046,566 1,905, % 5.00% 7000 StateSources 17,747,481 18,031,289 18,491,244 18,710,325 19,756,891 1,046, % 8000 Federal Sources 2,624,411 3,198,223 1,305, , ,383 (72,812) -8.00% 8000 Federal Sources 2,624,411 3,198,223 1,305, , ,383 (72,812) -8.00% 9000 Other Financing Sources 4,875 4, , ,200 - (677,200) % 9000 Other Financing Sources 4,875 4, , ,200 - (677,200) % TOTAL REVENUES 59,354,959 60,130,569 59,156,855 58,384,845 60,586,821 2,201, % TOTAL REVENUES 59,354,959 60,130,569 59,156,855 58,384,845 60,586,821 2,201, % EXPENDITURES EXPENDITURES 100 Salaries 100 Salaries 28,312,940 28,312,940 28,347,956 28,347,956 28,684,242 28,684,242 28,728,305 28,728,305 29,259,195 29,259, , , % 1.85% 200 Benefits 200 Benefits 10,400,663 10,400,663 10,303,923 10,303,923 11,082,656 11,082,656 12,647,877 12,647,877 13,742,153 13,742,153 1,094,276 1,094, % 8.65% 300 Professional 300 Professional Services Services 2,386,720 2,386,720 2,868,520 2,868,520 2,844,726 2,844,726 2,488,202 2,488,202 3,062,496 3,062, , , % 23.08% 400 Property 400 Services Property Services 1,980,231 1,980,231 2,112,697 2,112,697 1,837,549 1,837,549 1,754,185 1,754,185 1,667,130 1,667,130 (87,055) (87,055) -4.96% -4.96% 500 Other Services 500 Other Services 2,572,339 2,572,339 2,704,892 2,704,892 2,977,523 2,977,523 2,995,904 2,995,904 2,856,133 2,856,133 (139,771) (139,771) -4.67% 600 Supplies 600 Supplies 3,138,439 3,138,439 2,718,269 2,718,269 2,593,574 2,593,574 2,677,868 2,677,868 2,383,381 2,383,381 (294,487) % 700 Property 700 Property 1,591,171 1,591, , ,892 1,150,719 1,150,719 40,450 40,450 30,075 30,075 (10,375) % 800 Other Objects 800 Other Objects 4,084,915 4,084,915 3,501,118 3,501,118 4,185,164 4,185,164 3,296,117 3,296,117 2,788,981 2,788,981 (507,136) % 900 Other Use 900 of Other Funds Use of Funds 4,391,843 4,391,843 6,565,572 6,565,572 4,686,590 4,686,590 5,115,801 5,115,801 4,600,000 (515,801) % TOTAL EXPENDITURES TOTAL EXPENDITURES 58,859,261 58,859,261 59,860,839 59,860,839 60,042,743 60,042,743 59,744,709 59,744,709 60,389, , % Median Assessed Median Property Assessed Value Property Value $ 128,960 $ 128,960 Millage 2013/14 Millage 2013/ Median Property Median Yearly Property Property Yearly Taxes Property Taxes $ 2,529 $ 2,529 State Sources 33% Revenue Federal Sources 1% State Sources 33% Revenue Federal Sources 1% Local Sources 66% Local Sources 66% Salaries Benefits Professional Services Salaries Benefits Professional Services Property Services Other Services Supplies Property Services Other Services Supplies Property Other Objects Other Use of Funds Property Other Objects Other Use of Funds 4% 5% 3% 5% 23% 4% 5% 8% 5% 8% 0% 0% 5% 3% 5% 23% 48% 48% Expenses Expenses

16 Page 16 Baldwin-Whitehall School District Harrison Middle School Fitness Center Reopened Harrison s Health and Physical Education staff is excited to incorporate the newly revamped Fitness Center for its Health and Physical Education students for the new year. With the support of Mr. Wetmiller, a generous grant from Highmark Healthy High Five and a charitable donation from the Pittsburgh Penguins, the fitness center now offers an array of cardiovascular, free weights, and universal weight machines to enhance students fitness and awareness. Students will have an opportunity to learn proper technique on different types of equipment in the fitness center. All grades will have an option to use the fitness center in PE classes along with regularly scheduled activities. This will be a chance for students to experience circuit training with different cardiovascular or muscular training stations. The fitness center is a great addition to the Health/PE department at Harrison, said PE department chair, Dennis Squeglia. It gives students an alternative option in PE. It helps them become aware of their own strength and cardio fitness levels while also learning proper etiquette in a gym setting. This is a skill that can be developed and used for the rest of their lives.

17 Highlander Highlights Page 17 District Wide Title Students and staff in every school showed their support of Anti-Bullying this year by having hat days, color days, spirit days and assemblies. The district Social Workers organized an anti-bullying education program for all schools titled, Let s Get Real. They compiled a handbook for staff that was presented to the principals. As the district moves forward, the social workers will now create a plan that revolves around next year s bullying initiative with students and parents.

18 Page 18 Baldwin-Whitehall School District District-Wide Retiring Teachers The District thanks the retiring teachers for their commitment and dedication to our schools and our students. They have touched the lives of many. Although we are sorry to see them go, we wish them nothing but happiness in their future endeavors. Susan Abdulovic Dana Clay Thank You! Best Wishes! Nancy Scholar Susan Smocer America Bowl The Baldwin-Whitehall School District hosted it s first-ever, annual, America Bowl. The event was created and organized by the district s gifted teachers, Debbie Reynolds, Dan Shaner, Jared Hoffman, and Brad Schulte.The competition was comprised of students answering history questions, both individually and in groups of four. The questions were originated by the gifted teachers and selected students. Including Baldwin-Whitehall, there were a total of 26 districts that participated in the event held at Baldwin High School, with more than 350 student participants. Both elementary and middle level teams participated in the bowl, and the top three teams from each level were awarded prizes. Fun was had by all, and the district plans on hosting this event, again, next year. The Physical Education department at Whitehall Elementary is proud to announce the second successful year of participation in the Jump Rope For Heart program, which raises awareness for children who suffer from heart illnesses. The students of Whitehall Elementary did a fantastic job this year surpassing their goal and more than doubling last year s total by raising an outstanding $4,200. Whitehall staff thanks the students for all of their hard work.

19 Highlander Highlights Page 19 Whitehall Elementary School Rapping Mathematics The fifth grade DARE recognition program was held on Wednesday, February 13, 2013 at Whitehall Elementary School. Mayor James Nowalk, Chief Don Dolfi and Deputy Chief Rich Danko were in attendance. Officer Dave Artman led the program with support from district personnel. Over 200 parents were in attendance. A special thanks to Whitehall Borough and Officer Dave for another great year of fun, activity, and most importantly gained knowledge of how to lead a healthy lifestyle. Stepping Into a Different Era Mrs. Neyman s third, fourth and fifth grade students rapped their way through math class. The Touch Math curriculum brought a new way for the students to learn skip counting. Each number has a different song with a different beat to help them memorize their multiplication facts. The kids loved to boogey on down while showing off their rapping skills. During one of their sessions, the classes were even lucky enough to have Ms. Sedlacek join in! Rapping is a great way for students to learn their mathematic facts. The fifth grade students of Whitehall Elementary entered a different city in a different era when they followed Jeffrey Magee in the book, Maniac Magee, as he began a new life in a town called Two Mills that was divided by race in the 1960 s. This novel study provided the students an opportunity to experience Jerry Spinelli s Newbery Award winning masterpiece while practicing core reading skills such as comparing and contrasting, and identifying cause and effect relationships. The rich discussion and critical thinking that accompany this novel is invaluable to the learner. It has quickly become a true favorite for many students of Whitehall. The Oscars... Outstanding Students Care About Reading Scores... Throughout the year, students received a star if their scaled scores goes up one point or if they are above grade level. Those who earned 4 or 5 stars received a certificate and an Oscar.

20 Page 20 Baldwin-Whitehall School District McAnnulty Elementary Walking in a Winter Wonderland McAnnulty Elementary staff held a fundraiser for the Caring Place this past school year. The faculty decorated the building for a Winter Wonderland carnival and organized various activity stations for McAnnulty students and their families to visit. Each child was issued a passport to have stamped as they stopped by each station. DJ Dan (Davis), a McAnnulty parent, kept everyone dancing in the gym while Mr. Emanuelson gave new meaning to the term fearless leader, as he stepped in front of the hockey net for a shoot pucks at the principal station. Over 80 families decorated frames and had their photos taken. Children added their own twist to the Eat-n-Park Smiley cookie. There were stories, relay races, a dance station, face painting, and an opportunity to purchase yummy snacks at the Caring Café. The Baldwin police gave parents the opportunity to have their children fingerprinted and pick up other safety information. Among items up for raffle were a beautiful tapestry donated by Slater s and an autographed picture of Tony Hawk. The McAnnulty families overwhelmed the faculty with their generosity. Over 500 tickets were sold and the event raised more than $2600 for the Caring Place. The Highmark Caring Place is a center for grieving children, adolescents and their families. It is a wonderful place where children and their adults who have experienced the death of a loved one can go to receive support from others and discover that they are not alone in their grief. The staff members at McAnnulty are proud affiliates of the Caring Team and pleased to raise money and awareness for the Highmark Caring Place. Students at McAnnulty getting a chance to speak through a microphone during a visit by Jimmy Roach from Y108.

21 Highlander Highlights Page 21 Paynter Elementary Art teacher, Mrs. Cooley, was a recipient of a $100 grant from the B-W Council of PTA s. This grant money was used to purchase paint supplies and snacks for children who stayed after school to paint a mural on a wall in the Art, Music and Kindergarten wing of Paynter Elementary School. First, Mrs. Cooley had students in the fourth and fifth grade submit drawings related to the areas taught in that part of the school. After a number of sketches were collected, she laid them out to put them together for one cohesive design. The drawings were traced and projected on to the wall, and with the exception of things higher up on the wall, a group of thirty three students and student teacher, Katy Ostronic assisted in painting the mural. Students who contributed either by having a drawing selected, painting or both were: Olivia Lucas, Taylor Mincin, Hunter Prothero, Olivia Los, Morgan Bell, Zak Sealey, Alexa Utzig, Renee Firek, Elizabeth Pro, Emma Toman, Julia Lewis, Luke Mackowiak, Anthony Esposito, Gavin Barone, Ashlyn Timlin, Cameron Plinta, Lexi Kennard, Achol Nyuon, Tyler Calfo, Leanna Paul, Riley Nolan, Melissa Perdomo, Paige Williams, Angela Jesionowski, CJ Lucas, Grace Reed, Keith Reed, Kaylee Carlins, Jessica Kosslow, John Betz, Lyndsey Dutkiewicz, Duy Nguyen, Hannah Brooks, Hannah Waugaman, Joey Kosslow and Jenna Lutz. Paynter s hallway is now a bit brighter and the children love to look at the mural. A special thank you to B-W Council of PTA s. Mrs. Buglar s fourth graders learned about the diverse nation in which we live. They made a class collage to tell how five different groups of people have contributed to American society. Social Studies Kindergarten students in Mrs. Smocer s class located the United States and then Pennsylvania on the globe for a social studies lesson, My World. Mrs. Delon s fifth grade class demonstrating the properties of a circle, a chord and the diameter of a circle. Kindergarten students in Mrs. McWilliam s class partnered up to read a book from one of the Book Baskets in their classroom. Sudents selected leveled-reader books during quiet reading time and often read them at the puppet stage to an audience during playtime.

22 Page 22 Baldwin-Whitehall School District Music Department Kindergarten students at McAnnulty learned all about music by playing percussion instruments and practicing to keep the beat with some smooth dance moves, and of course by singing songs, too. Most importantly they had a great time creating music together. Paynter students watched clips from the broadway show STOMP and then brought in "instruments" from home. They wrote and rehearsed their own verison of STOMP and performed in front of their classmates. Practice! Practice! Practice! Whitehall students along with their music teacher, Mr. Booth, greeting fellow classmates and staff in the mornings. Paynter s fourth graders took various Dr. Suess books and made them musical. The stories were typed out for them and the first step was adding rhythm to the words. Then each student in the group picked an instrument and decided where the instruments should be played during the story. Fifth grade general music students at Whitehall Elementary wrapped up their semester with "Music Olympics" to test their knowledge of the basic fundamentals of music. Excellent work, everyone! In March, the Baldwin High School Symphonic and Concert Bands had the unique opportunity to play a combined concert with the River City Brass Band at the Carnegie Music Hall in Oakland.

23 Highlander Highlights Page 23 District A Tribute to Our Soldiers Fourth grade students at Whitehall Elementary School applied their knowledge of the components of writing a friendly letter. Letters were written to First Lieutenant Chase Burnett who is a Ranger in the United States Army and sent to Afghanistan where he is stationed. The children s letters were sent once a month to thank him and other soldiers for their service. Posted on the Defense Video & Imagery Distribution System website: U.S. Soldiers display letters sent to them by 4th grade school children of Whitehall Elementary School, out of Pittsburgh, Pa., while posing for a group photograph in Spin Boldak, Kandahar province, Afghanistan, Jan. 31, The Soldiers are assigned to the Tactical Operations Platoon, 2nd Battalion, 23rd Infantry Regiment, out of Joint Base Lewis-McChord, Wash. (U.S. Army photo by Staff Sgt. Shane Hamann/Released) Read more: McAnnulty Elementary has adopted Private First Class Robby Viccaro as a soldier to connect with and thank for serving our country and keeping us safe. PFC Viccaro is currently serving in Afghanistan and is very thankful for the care packages he receives form McAnnulty. So far they have sent PFC Viccaro and his combat buddies three packages each containing at least 35 pounds of supplies. Below is part of an message Mr. Emanuelson recently received from PFC Viccaro: Hello Sir. I am writing regarding the care package you sent my battle buddies and me. We are very thankful that total strangers would be so generous to us. We all got kicks out of reading the letters and opening the care package, sorting through all the goods. It honestly felt like Christmas not knowing what was in the box! Please tell your staff thank you and tell the kids thank you...i want them to know that their package got all the way to Afghanistan and that every letter, magazine, and snack makes a difference. A simple care package of any sort will boost moral and motivate all soldiers. Harrison Middle School students in Mrs. Crittenden s class made no-sew blankets for Soldiers Angels Blankets of Hope. These blankets send hope, support and gratitude to America s wounded veterans. Used on hospital beds, wheelchairs, and transport litters on medevac flights, Blankets of Hope bring the message that each service member is loved and not forgotten. The blankets are included in First Response Backpacks and Vet Packs sent to Combat Support Hospitals in the war zones, major medical facilities in Germany and around the world, and select military hospitals and veterans centers here at home.

24 Page 24 Baldwin-Whitehall School District District Technology in the Classroom Students in second grade at Whitehall Elementary used Skype to reach out to members of the community. Through weekly Skype sessions with the residents of Overlook Green. the children read leveled texts, sing songs from the curriculum, and share individual research essays. Students at Paynter Elementary used ipads for learning every day. Pictured are first and second grade students in Mrs. Cantwell s and Mrs. Larson s classes journaling about pictures they had taken during the day. The district s Learning Support classrooms use a reading program called Imagine Learning. This program involves direction instruction as a narrator models how to read the text. The students learn vocabulary and record themselves reading. This activity gives the students an opportunity to practice comprehension strategies common to state assessments. The students receive feedback and customized lessons based on their individual needs. This program is helping readers achieve success in the areas of reading comprehension and fluency. In January, representatives from several Pittsburgh area school districts attended a workshop in Baldwin- Whitehall to share our district s work with the program. Reactions to the program were very positive. Students in Mrs. Homer s class at Whitehall Elementary using Imagine Learning to enhance reading comprehension and fluency skills. Tenth grade Honors English students participated in a Fishbowl Discussion where half of the students get into a circle and discuss their analysis of a specific literary work. The other half of students face the circle and listen to the discussion, then post their comments in an online chatroom while adding their own insights as well. The chatroom is shown for all to discuss. In Baldwin High School s ELL as Leaders program, seniors created a presentation embedding Nepali music, a video of refugee camp life, photos, and guiding questions to show on the Promethian Board to bring the refugee experience to life during this cross-cultural share. They spoke to over 550 Foreign Language students during this program.

25 Highlander Highlights Page 25 District Science Paynter and McAnnulty students having fun while learning science. The balloon car lab was a lab that all science classes did, explained eighth grader Kelsie Muha. We had to make a moving car using only a balloon, an index card, a long straw, 2 short straws, a bendy straw, 4 bottle caps, and masking tape. First, my group taped the 2 short straws on the bottom of the index card, like the wheels of a car. Then, we cut the long straw in half. We stuck one half of the long straw through one of the straws that was already taped to the index card. Then, we did the same thing to the other half of the straw. The straws acted like the axles of a car. Next, we taped the bottle caps on each end of the long straw to act as wheels. After that, we bent the bendy straw, and taped it on the top of the index card, near the edge. Then, we taped the balloon onto the bent side of the bendy straw. When it was time to drive the car, we blew through the other end of the bendy straw, causing the balloon to inflate. We then set the car on the ground, and watched it drive. Our car ended up going a total of 12 meters, the farthest of all classes. Rocks, Minerals and Mining Did you know that the mineral gypsum is in the cream filling of Twinkies? Some students at Whitehall do! In conjunction with their ASSET unit on rocks and minerals, third graders welcomed back Mrs. Donna Gumbel from the Joy Mining Company. Each classroom spent time exploring the process of mining for minerals below the Earth s surface. After observing several mineral samples, cooperating groups had to determine which products were made from each mineral. The students then discussed the importance of safety when working underground. The visit ended with Mrs. Gumbel dressing one student in actual mining gear.

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27 Highlander Highlights Page 27 General Information Skyward Family Access This past Spring, Skyward introduced its new Family Access Portal design, which incorporates a social media platform feel. The design is unique to student management applications with its message-driven structure for easier viewing. This allows parents, teachers and students to see the progression of conversations, assignments, grades and more in a timeline format. The new Family Access Portal design offers a more userfriendly, intuitive style and greatly aids in improved information organization. More information will be sent home to families next month. School Board Meetings Help Us Go Green Let us send the Highlander Highlights to you electronically. Please contact us at this link to enewsletter participate in this money (and tree) saving option: NewsletterDelivery The Baldwin-Whitehall Board of School Directors and Administration work in partnership to provide a sound system of education in the Baldwin-Whitehall School District. The board meets on the first Wednesday of each month to discuss agenda items being considered for action. Regular board meetings are held on the second Wednesday of each month. The meetings begin at 7:30 pm at the Administration office. The dates of any special meetings are posted at the administration office and published in local papers. Supplemental Educational Services (SES) Supplemental Education Services (SES) or after-school tutoring is offered to ELIGIBLE students at Whitehall Elementary School. For more information, contact, Darlene DeFilippo, Director of Programs at x7260. Baldwin-Whitehall School District Now Hiring The District is currently in need of Substitute Teachers, Extra Bus Attendants, Extra Bus Drivers, Substitute Food Service Employees, Substitute Custodial Workers and Substitute Paraprofessionals-Student Assistance (in which an Associate s Degree is required). Each of these positions work on an on-call/ as-needed basis. Some of these positions would be ideal for retirees, those who have school-age children, or those who would like to work just a few hours a day. We welcome anyone interested to call x7460 or stop by the Administration Building to discuss these opportunities. HIghly Qualified Teachers According to the U. S. Department of Education, a highly qualified teacher, is fully certified, has a bachelor s degree and has completed a content area major OR has passed a content area test in the subject he/she is assigned to teach. In Pennsylvania, a fully certified teacher must have a bachelor s degree, a content area major AND have passed a content area test. In addition, fully certified teachers in Pennsylvania have completed pedagogical course work in education, including student teaching. Every teacher in Baldwin- Whitehall meets the No Child Left Behind standards for Highly Qualified Teachers.

28 Baldwin-Whitehall School District Board of School Directors Nancy Sciulli DiNardo, President Kevin J. Fischer, 1st Vice President Diana Kazour, 2nd Vice President Nancy Lee Crowder Tracy Macek Larry Pantuso George L. Pry Ray Rosing Martin Michael Schmotzer Mary Ann Kraus, Board Secretary Bruce E. Dice & Associates, P.C., Solicitor District Administration Dr. Randal A. Lutz, Superintendent Denise L. Sedlacek, Asst. Superintendent Timothy S. Winner, Dir. of Technology Mark R. Cherpak, Business Manager Vincent M. Sortino, Athletic Director Darlene DeFilippo, Dir. of Programs Paul D. Svirbel, Facilities Director Andrea T. Huffman, Dir. of Curriculum Kenneth Pokorny, Transportation Manager Christopher Constantine, Dir. of Human Resources Tammy Caponi, Food Service Director Baldwin High School (9-12) TBD, Principal Jonathan W. Peebles, Asst. Principal Janeen M. Peretin, Asst. Principal John M. Saras, Asst. Principal Stephanie McHugh, Guidance Supervisor Building Administration McAnnulty Elementary (K-1) Daniel J. Emanuelson, Principal Paynter Elementary (K-5) Patricia J. Fusco, Principal Heatherlyn Wessel, Asst. Principal J.E. Harrison Middle School (6-8) Michael R. Wetmiller, Principal Scott D. Ross, Asst. Principal TBD, Asst. Principal Whitehall Elementary (2-5) Jennifer R. Marsteller, Principal Anissa Rosenwald, Asst. Principal It is the policy of the Baldwin-Whitehall School District not to discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, ancestry, national origin, age, handicap or disability, or status as a Vietnam-era or special disabled veteran in accordance with applicable federal and state laws, including the Equal Pay Act of 1963, Titles VI and VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972, Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, the Vietnam Era Veterans Readjustment Assistance Act of 1974, the Age Discrimination in Employment Act of 1975, the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1991, Pennsylvania Human Relations Act, and the Pennsylvania Equal Pay Act. For information about your rights or grievance procedures contact the Superintendent of Schools, 4900 Curry Road, Pittsburgh, PA 15236, or call x /19/2013 Non-Profit Org. U.S. Postage Paid Pittsburgh, PA Permit No.1505