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Word from the Superintendent
The last several weeks have presented some significant changes for the Chambersburg Area School District and our stakeholders (students, staff, parents and community members). As with any change, our goal is to do what we believe is in the best interest of our students and to balance the needs of the many different groups, while ensuring that we deliver the best education possible. I'd like to take a few moments, to recap some of these changes and to thank those of you who have come forward to make your opinions known. I appreciate the passion of the convictions that have been expressed and I to want assure you that I am listening.
Notably the first change that has received much attention during the first few weeks of school is the district-wide implementation of the revised "apparel guidelines." As I continue to travel throughout the district and community, I am encouraged by the support of the new guidelines and positive impact I have seen to student dress. While we have had some vocal feedback against the guidelines, I want you to know that I have received as much if not more feedback in support. While the supporters may not be as vocal, they represent many different stakeholder groups. I personally have heard from teachers stating "overall better behavior"; students indicating "it is nice not to see others inappropriately dressed"; principals reporting "students have adjusted with less than 1% of the student body having dress issues"; and parents commenting "overall the purchase of clothing is easier." Your feedback is important to me. All comments are being collected, summarized and will be shared with the apparel committee. I encourage all of our stakeholders to continue to share feedback both positive and negative, along with suggested changes to the new guidelines, with Dr. Barry Purvis, Apparel Committee Chair. The apparel committee is tasked with reviewing the implementation of the guidelines during the 2013-2014 school year and providing recommendations to our School Board for 2014-2015.
Pennsylvania Department of Education announced the U.S. Department of Education's approval of the requested waiver of the "No Child Left Behind (NCLB)." This waiver will directly impact how we view the performance of our schools. We will no longer speak in terms of Adequate Yearly Progress (AYP), but rather in terms of School Performance Profile (SPP). All schools will now receive a SPP grade, based on a 100 point scale. No longer are we valued based on the single measure of either meeting AYP or not. The Pennsylvania System of School Assessment (PSSA) and Keystone exams, including reading, writing, math, science, Algebra I, Biology and Literature are included in the SPP calculations, as a part of our indicators of academic achievement. Data elements used to develop individual school ratings include:
- Indicators of Academic Achievement - 50%
- Indicators of Academic Growth - 40%
- Other Academic Indicators, such as graduation rate - 10%
I am excited and encouraged by the SPP ratings of our schools! Eleven out of 16 schools received a rating of 80 or above. I attribute a large percentage of this success to the ongoing efforts to ensure our students are not only able to score well on the state tests, but more importantly to experience academic growth. As we continue to analyze the performance data, we will share successes and areas for growth. Please stay tuned for more information as it becomes available.
For Individual building ratings (Click here). For additional information regarding the Pennsylvania NCLB waiver and the new SPP, please visit the Pennsylvania Department of Education website (Click here). |
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Stevens Elementary School Receives $1,000 in Teacher Rewards from Sam's Club |
 On September 10, 2013, Stevens Elementary School was the recipient of $1,000 in Sam's Club/Wal-Mart gift cards, and a new laminator valued at over $100. The rewards are a part of the Sam's/Wal-Mart Teacher Rewards Corporate Program, which aims to help teachers offset classroom expenses that come out of their own pockets. The rewards given by Sam's Club, Hagerstown, MD, were a first for CASD schools.
According to Tom Knepper, Assistant Principal, "Stevens Elementary School has seen a 15% increase in student enrollment. The generosity of Sam's will go a long way to purchase some needed school supplies. On behalf of the staff and students of Stevens, I want to express my sincere appreciate to Sam's Club." |
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Chamber Donates $1,000 to CASD Foundation | |
The Greater Chambersburg Chamber of Commerce recently donated $1,000 to the Chambersburg Area School District Foundation, proceeds from the 10th Annual Tim and Susan Cook Memorial ChambersFest One-Mile Race in July.
The Foundation administers the scholarship fund and faculty members select the recipients, graduating seniors at Chambersburg Area Senior High School who model the characteristics exemplified by the late Tim and Susan Cook. Recipients of the scholarship from the Class of 2013 are Kyle Myers, business; and Shannon Leary, math.
The CASD Foundation receives donations earmarked for the Tim and Susan Cook Scholarship throughout the year from individuals, alumni, CASHS faculty committees, booster clubs and various community organizations. "This is a wonderful way to keep the Cooks' memories alive and we truly appreciate the Chamber's support," Lynch said.
 | | Pictured from left are Angela Lynch, Executive Director of the Foundation; Chris Monheim and Bob Walker, members of the Chamber of Commerce's Cook Race Committee. |
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Franklin County College/Career Night |
CASHS to host the annual Franklin County College/Career Night on Monday, October 21, 2013 from 6:00 PM to 7:30 PM in the CASHS Auxiliary Gym. A large selection of colleges representatives will be present at the event. Click here for a list of colleges. To assist you with preparing for the event, a list of questions is provided. Click here.
All current CASHS students and parents are invited to attended. |
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CASD to participate in Nationwide "Principal for a Day" Program |
The 2013 CASD "Principal for a Day" program is scheduled for Friday, October 11, 2013. This nationwide program brings community leaders into schools and is designed to:
- Increase awareness and understanding among individuals in the private sector of the strengths and challenges of CASD schools
- Demonstrate the private sector's commitment to ensuring a quality public education for all students, and
- Form ongoing partnerships between individuals/businesses, CASD, and the CASD Foundation.
On the day of the visit, the "Principal for a Day" will spend time with the principal, teachers, and students sharing ideas and learning about the school's day-to-day operations. The guest principal might teach a class, meet with the student council, attend student performances, read to students, address a class assembly, or participate in other activities of choice - the building principal ultimately decides. (Volunteers will communicate with their building principal prior to the event to learn more about the offerings and opportunities in their specific building assignment.)
This program is being coordinated by Ms. Angie Lynch, CASD Foundation, Executive Director.
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Buchanan PTO Shows Parents Dress Apparel Appropriate Clothing During Fall Open House | |
Students from Andrew Buchanan Elementary School model clothes that conform with the district's new dress code. |
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STOP School Bus Bullying | |
It is the goal of the CASD Transportation department to ensure that each and every one of the over 10,000 students transported daily have a safe and "bully" free ride.
The following tips are offered to parents and teachers to help recognize the signs of potential Bus Bullying:
- Scared to ride the bus or go to school
- Trying to be late or miss the bus
- Regularly asking for rides to school
- Repeatedly saying they have lost possessions ( lunch, clothing, school supplies, etc.)
The following tips are offered to assist with handling potential Bus Bullying:
Students:
- Tell the bus driver
- Tell adults when bullying occurs
- Move away from the bully
- Be a friend to another student who is being bullied
Parents:
- Encourage your child to talk to adults
- Listen to your child and allow them to explain
- Investigate the situation with the bus driver
- Refer to the District's bullying policy No. 218.2
For additional information (Click here) |
Trojan Soccer Teams Show Teachers Appreciation | |
The Chambersburg Trojan Boys and Girls Soccer Teams held Teacher Appreciation Nights at their home games on Tuesday, September 24th and Thursday, September 26th. Senior players chose a teacher who had an impact on their lives throughout their school years and wrote a few sentences about why they chose the teacher. The teachers listed below were escorted onto the field by the senior players and were recognized during a small ceremony prior to the start of the Varsity games. The soccer players, Booster Club, parents and families would like to extend a special thanks to all teachers who have played an important role in the lives of the players.
Mr. Paul Unruh
Mr. Jeremy Fogelsonger
Mr. Doug Rine
Ms. Rebecca Spang
Mr. Joshua Sherman
Mr. Shawn Shreffler
Ms. Jamie Zimmerman
Mr. Bill Prieto
Mr. John Ambrosio
Mr. Joseph Barra
Ms. Desiree Benshoff
Mr. Mark Yost
Mrs. Kathy Estep
Mr. Bill Lindsey Mr. Sean Wible
Mrs. Audra Bock
Mrs. Holly Strayer
Mr. Mark Yost
Mr. Shawn Stenger
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Family Nights with the ESL Department
(Noches de Familia con el Departamento de Inglés como una segunda lengua) | |
The ESL (English as a Second Language) department invites your family to our Family Nights! The ESL Family Nights will be at the First Lutheran Church in downtown Chambersburg on the first Thursday of every month during the school year. We ask your family to come join us once a month to learn about topics related to school and the community. Come meet your child's ESL teachers, bring a dish, and eat dinner as a family! Drinks will be provided. We hope to see you there!
CASD ESL Family Night
First Thursday of Every Month
Time: 6:00 PM - 7:00 PM
First Lutheran Church
43 West Washington Street
Chambersburg, PA
Located in downtown Chambersburg by the South Gate Shopping Center
If you have any questions-contact Jessica Miller, Parent Coordinator
jessica.miller@casdonline.org or 717-372-4307.
El Departamento de Inglés como una segunda lengua invita a su familia a nuestra Noche de Familia! Las Noches de Familia estarán en la iglesia "First Lutheran" en el centro de Chambersburg el primer jueves de cada mes durante el año escolar. Le pedimos su familia a unirse una vez al mes y cocinar su plato favorito para la cena. Bebidas se proporcionarán. Ven a conocer a los maestros (para Inglés como una segundo lengua), llevar un plato, y cenar con la familia! Bienvenido a nuestro distrito escolar. Esperamos ver tu familia en octubre. Si usted tiene alguna pregunta, por favor póngase en contacto con Jessica Miller, Coordinadora de Padres. jessica.miller@casdonline.org y 717-372-4307.
Qué: Noche de familia con CASD
Cuándo: El primer jueves de cada mes durante el año escolar
Tiempo: 6:00 PM - 7:00 PM
Dónde: First Lutheran Church en el centro de Chambersburg cerca de South Gate (43 West Washington Calle)
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CAMS South Earns Speak Up Recognition |
CAMS South recognized as one of the top 200 participating schools in the Nation for 2012-2013. Congratulations to all of the CAMS South family!
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Career Magnet School Names National Honor Society Officers | |
The National Honor Society at the Career Magnet School has elected new officers for the 2013-2014 school year. All members of the NHS will be working on completing ten hours of community service. Members will also be hosting an after-school tutoring program every Monday.
A standing committee will be formed to develop and conduct NHS activities throughout the year. One of the major activities will include planning a STEM focused educational trip in the spring. |
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Celebrate My Drive |
During National Teen Driver Safety Week (October 18th - October 26th), CASHS is participating in Celebrate My Drive® and would like to invite your support! Chambersburg Area Senior High School is participating in the program because teen driver safety is important to us and our school will have a chance to win a $100,000 grant from State Farm®! We could also win one of two hometown concert events with a chart-topping music artist.
You can make a safe driving commitment once a day, every day, between October 18th and 26th. The more safe driving commitments we make, the better our school's chance of winning $100,000 and hosting a concert. It's simple:
- Log onto celebratemydrive.com
- Indicate you want to support CASHS
- Commit to drive safely!
Thanks for your support! Remember, 2N2: 2 eyes on the road, 2 hands on the wheel.
For questions please contact, Brad Ocker, Associate Principal at bradley.ocker@casdonline.org.
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CASD Librarians Contribute to State-Level Committees | |
CAMS North librarian Katie Miller and Hamilton Heights librarian Craig McFeely both served this summer on committees of the Pennsylvania School Librarian Association (PSLA) to develop state-level initiatives. Mrs. Miller is in her second year with the PSLA Curriculum Committee, developing assessments that align with the Model Library Curriculum that she helped to develop with that committee last year. Mrs. Miller traveled to other locations in the state last year to deliver professional development sessions on the Model Library Curriculum, and she will be helping to deliver information about the newly developed model assessments later this year.
Mr. McFeely started his first term of service in June with the PSLA Professional Standards Committee, which worked to compile the document, "Examples for School Librarians." This document appears on the Pennsylvania Department of Education Standards Aligned System Website as part of the Teaching Frameworks page: http://www.pdesas.org/Instruction/Frameworks. Educational administrators will use this publication statewide as part of the new Teacher Effectiveness program of observation and evaluation of teacher librarians.
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CAMS North to Recognize Students Weekly |
CAMS North teachers will be recognizing a student each week. Nominating teachers will provide a few sentences to the principal that outline why this student was chosen to be recognized. Selected students will receive a certificate, a candy bar, a star that will go on our hallway wall, and two Trojan Dollars.
We are excited to be recognizing our students at CAMS North! Any questions can be directed to Jennifer Drake, Assistant Principal at Jennifer.drake@casdonline.org or by phone at 717-261-3486.
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CASHS Band Craft Show |
Please plan to attend the CASHS Band Craft show or sponsor a Band student by becoming a vender for the show!
Saturday, November 16th
10:00 AM - 3:00 PM
CASHS cafeteria
Concession food will be available and
student musicians will provide entertainment.
For more information contact Krista Miracle 717-816-0742 or miraclekrista@gmail.com |
CAMS South Used Book Sale | |
It is time again for the CAMS South Used Book Sale! Currently, we are collecting GOOD QUALITY used books and DVDs. We are collecting any type of good quality book or DVD except: encyclopedias, text books, hymnals, magazines, coloring books, readers digest condensed version books, dictionaries, and VHS tapes. Donations of books or DVDs can be sent with a CAMS South student, or dropped off in the office between 8:00 AM-4:00 PM. The final day of collection is Friday, October 18th.
The sale will begin on Wednesday, October 23rd and will end on Wednesday, October 30th (with $1 a bag on the final day). District employees can shop anytime between 7:20 AM- 4:00 PM.
There will be two public sales this year:
1) Saturday, October 26th from 11:00 AM-2:00 PM
2) Tuesday, October 29th from 6:00 PM-8:00 PM
During the week of the sale, students are invited to shop during activities period.
Prices
Picture Books & Young Adult
Paperback $0.25
Hardback $0.50
Adult Novels & Special Interest
Paperback $0.50
Hardback $1.00
DVDs $1.00
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CASHS PTSA to Host Clothing Drive | |
Beginning October 12th, the CASHS PTSA is will be holding a week long clothing drive. We are seeking gently used, clothing for male and female students that meet the dress apparel guidelines (Click here).
Donation suggestions are:
Tops: T-shirts, crew neck, collar shirts, sweaters, turtleneck and mock turtleneck in solid colors or patterns, stripes, paisley or plaid.
Bottoms: Denim, black, blue, grey, brown, khaki and tan. All must be solid colors. Corduroy, dress and cargo pants are permitted.
Accessories: Shoes and belts
ANY TROJAN SPIRIT WEAR WILL GLADLY BE ACCEPTED
We will be kicking off our clothing drive at THE BUTCHER SHOPPE on Saturday, October 12th from 9:00 AM-11:00 AM. All donations will earn a Big Oak Coin good for a free coffee, tea or towards any purchase in the Big Oak Café.
On Tuesday,October 15th from 4:00 PM - 7:00 PM, we will be accepting donations at TEXAS ROADHOUSE. For all who donate, TEXAS ROADHOUSE will give a free appetizer!
During the week of October 12th through October 18th , clothing donations can also be dropped off at one of the convenient locations listed below:
- The Gift Enclosure- Receive $5 off your purchase with a clothing donation
- The Runner's Sole- Receive 5% off your purchase with your small bag of donated clothing
- The Grove Family Library- Receive a free DVD rental with your clothing donation
- CASHS (during school hours)- Receive a free CASHS Band Concert ticket with any donation
To wrap up our week, we will be collecting clothing at the last Trojans home football game on Friday, October 18th beginning at 5:00 PM. We need your help to STUFF THE TRUCK! Come show your support for the CASHS PTSA and the Chambersburg Trojans!
For more information, contact Carly Coffey at carly.coffey@casdonline.org.
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CASD School Board Recognizes Top Achievers |
The following students are recognized for perfect scores in the PSSA test and the Keystone exams:
Perfect Scores Math - 3rd Grade:
Colin Arnold, Alyssa Brechbill, Leah Ritchey, Stephen Smith and Zachary Yourkavitch
Perfect Scores Math -7th Grade:
Jacob Gayman
Perfect Scores Math -8th Grade:
Leah Hunt, Nathaniel Maynard and Brian Rutan
Perfect Score Writing - 5th Grade:
Cheyanne Yeager
Perfect Score Writing - 8th Grade:
Benjamin Hafey and Erin LightFoot
Perfect Score Reading - 4th Grade:
Taylor Vanaman
Perfect Score Reading - 5th Grade:
Alexandra Brajovic and Elizabeth Gold
Perfect Score Science - 4th Grade:
Madeline Kinto
Perfect Score Science - 8th Grade:
Benjamin Champion
Perfect Score-Keystone Algebra 1
Leah Hunt
At the September 25th board meeting, students were awarded a certificate of achievement for their outstanding work! Congratulations to all! |
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Fayetteville New Principal, Lisa Schoenleber Shares Beginning of the Year Excitement and Happenings.... |
This is Lisa Schoenleber's first year as an Elementary Principal. She spent the last several years as an Assistant Principal at CAMS North. "When asked how my year is going so far? The word that always comes to my mind is "awesome." I have a great staff, great students, and great parents. How can it be any less than awesome"?, said Lisa Schoenleber. Click here to view News and Happenings at Fayetteville Elementary School. |
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Autism Parent Advisory Committee |
In an attempt to expand the district's autism services and increase our district autism awareness, the Chambersburg Area School District has created an Autism Parent Advisory Committee (APAC). The parent representatives of students with autism include; Krista Miracle, Susie Hrenko, Jennifer Morris and Teresa Osterman. The solution-focused committee meets monthly to recognize accomplishments and identify targeted areas for improvement. This year the committee will be focusing on; increasing communication between stakeholders, enhancing pertinent staff training, and identifying additional supplements to the social skills curriculum. The members of the parent advisory committee were instrumental in planning open houses for our students receiving autism support services at Hamilton Heights Elementary, Fayetteville Elementary, and Chambersburg Area Middle School South. In addition, the APAC facilitated a parent panel discussion during the administrative in-service for the CASD administrative group. For additional information regarding the Autism Parent Advisory Committee, please contact the Chambersburg Area School District at 717-709-2322.
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 For more information about school board business, including meeting agendas and related documents, visit BoardDocs under the school board link on the district website. |
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