MARS AREA SCHOOL DISTRICT - 1.cdn.edl.io · PDF filePrimary Center Book Fair PTO Book Fair @ Elementary School ... ASVAB Test Date, 8 a.m. @High School 4 Elementary PTO ... Cable Channel

MARS AREA SCHOOL DISTRICTActivities & Information Calendar 09/1009/10

High School Faculty Meeting

Elementary SchoolParent Orientation, 6:30 - 8:30 p.m.

3 5Primary Center First Grade ParentOrientation, 6 - 8 p.m.

2Elementary PTOMeeting, 9:30 a.m. @ Primary Center

1

Sun Mon Tu e W e d Th u F r i Sa t

Middle School ParentAdvisory BoardMeeting, 9:15 a.m.

4

Web sitewww.marsk12.org

The eCommunicatorSubscribe online at www.marsk12.org

MASD-TVCable Channel 50Digital Cable Ch. 209

Community Info. Line(724) 625-1581, press 1

Sports Information Line(724) 625-1581, press 3

September 2009

DIBELS/AIMS Assessment Window — Grades K, 1 & 2; DRA2 Assessment Window — Grade 2

S M W T F ST

August 2009

1

2 3 4 5 6 7 8

9 10 11 13 14 1512

16 17 18 19 20 21 22

25 26 27 28 292423

30 31

Primary CenterStudent Picture Day

High School Student Picture Day

10ACT Test Date

12Centennial SchoolStudent Picture Day

11Middle School Student Picture Day

Elementary SchoolStudent Picture Day

Middle School Magazine Sale Begins

Centennial School ParentOrientation, 6 - 8 p.m.

High School AFS/MISAChapter Meeting, 7 p.m.

9High School “MakingHigh School Count”Ninth Grade Assembly,8:10 a.m.

86No School

7

Middle SchoolCurriculum Night/ Open House, 6 - 8 p.m.

17 19High School Sports Hall of Fame Induction,5 p.m. @ Middle School

Middle School Magazine Sale Second Collection

18Middle School Faculty Meeting

Market Day Pick-up, 6:30 - 7:30 p.m. @Elementary School

16High School College & Career Fair, 6:30 - 8 p.m.

1513Middle School Magazine Sale First Collection

14

24 2625Middle School Magazine Sale Ends

232220High SchoolHomecoming Tickets On Sale

High School Parent/Principal CommunicationConnection Meeting, 7 p.m. @ Cafeteria

21

302927 28

Labor Day

Notes

S M W T F ST

October 2009

1 2 3

4 5 6 7 8 9 10

11 12 13 15 16 1714

18 19 20 21 22 23 24

27 28 29 30 312625

First Day of Autumn

Rosh Hashanah

Yom Kippur

Centennial School Book Fair

DRA2 Assessment Window — Grades 1 - 4; DIBELS Assessment Window — Grade 2; 4Sight Testing Window — Grades 3 - 8; AIMS Assessment Window — Grades 2 - 4

DRA2 Assessment Window — Grades 1 - 4; DIBELS Assessment Window — Grade 2;4Sight Testing Window —Grades 3 - 8; AIMS Assessment Window —Grades 2 - 4

DRA2 Assessment Window — Grades 1 - 4; DIBELS Assessment Window — Grade 2; 4Sight Testing Window — Grades 3 - 8; AIMS Assessment Window — Grades 2 - 4

DRA2 Assessment Window — Grades 1 - 4; DIBELS Assessment Window — Grade 2; 4Sight Testing Window — Grades 3 -8; AIMS Assessment Window — Grades 2 - 4


1High School Fall Marching Band Show, 5 p.m. @ MarsAthletic Complex

3



2






S M W T F ST

September 2009

1 2 3 4 5

6 7 8 9 10 11 12

13 14 15 17 18 1916

20 21 22 23 24 25 26

29 302827

Octobe r 2009

Centennial School Book FairDRA2 Assessment Window — Grades 1 - 4; DIBELS

Assessment Window — Grade 2; 4Sight Testing Window — Grades 3 - 8; AIMS Assessment Window — Grades 2 - 4

High School Spirit WeekClass Color Day

Grade 12 — BlackGrade 11 — GreenGrade 10 — PinkGrade 9 — Purple

High School Penny Wars End

8SAT Test Date, 7:30 a.m.@ High School

HomecomingDance, 7 - 10 p.m. @ Centennial School

10High School Spirit WeekSpirit Day

Homecoming Parade, 5:30 p.m. @ Downtown Mars

Homecoming FootballGame, 7:30 p.m. @Mars Athletic Complex

9High School Spirit WeekWacky Wednesday

Middle SchoolFaculty Meeting

7High School Spirit Week‘80s Day

Elementary PTOMeeting, 9:30 a.m. @ Primary Center

6High School PowderPuff Football Game,11:30 a.m. @ MarsAthletic Complex

4High School Spirit WeekComfy Cozy Day

High School Penny Wars Begin

5


15PSAT Test Date , 8 a.m. @ High School

17Middle School Spirit Dance/ActivityNight, 7 - 9:30 p.m.

16Title I Parent AdvisoryCouncil Tea, 9 - 10:30 a.m. @ Elementary School

High School OpenHouse, 6 - 8 p.m.


141311No SchoolIn-Service DayStaff Development

12

22ACT Test Date, 7:45 a.m.@ High School

2423212018 19

Elementary SchoolFall Festival Party, 2 - 3 p.m.

29 31Primary Center Fall Festival PartyMorning Kindergarten10:15 - 11:15 a.m.; Grades K-1, 2 - 3 p.m.

Centennial School Fall Festival Party,Grade 5, 1 - 2 p.m.Grade 6, 2 - 3 p.m.

30282725 26

Notes

S M W T F ST

November 2009

1 2 3 4 5 6 7

8 9 10 11 12 13 14

15 16 17 19 20 2118

22 23 24 25 26 27 28

3029

Columbus Day

Halloween

United Nations Day

Primary Center Book Fair

PTO Book Fair @ Elementary School

* PSSA Math, Reading & Writing Testing Window — Grade 12 Retest

PSSA testing datesare set by the Penn-sylvania Departmentof Education and aresubject to change.

*


5SAT Test Date

7ASVAB Test Date, 8 a.m. @ High School

4Elementary PTOMeeting, 9:30 a.m. @ Middle School

31High School Treasures for ChildrenProgram Begins

2


High School Senior Pictures Due to Yearbook


Centennial SchoolVeterans Day Program,1:30 p.m.

6






S M W T F ST

October 2009

1 2 3

4 5 6 7 8 9 10

11 12 13 15 16 1714

18 19 20 21 22 23 24

27 28 29 30 312625

Daylight SavingTime Ends

Election Day

November 2009

* PSSA Math, Reading & Writing Testing Window — Grade 12 Retest

Winter Sports Physicals,8 a.m. @ High School, 1 p.m. @ Middle School

12 14Middle School Eighth Grade Pittsburgh BalletTheater Field Trip

13No School

In-Service DayParent Conferences(Grades K-12)


11High School BloodDrive, 8 a.m. - 1:30 p.m.


108 9

Elementary SchoolFourth Grade ParentVisitation Day

High School FinancialAid Night, 6:30 p.m.

19AFS/MISA Fall Craft Show, 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. @ High School & Middle School

All-School Play, 7:30 p.m. @ High School Auditorium

21Winter Sports Begin

All-School Play, 7:30 p.m. @ HighSchool Auditorium

20Elementary SchoolThird Grade ParentVisitation Day

Middle SchoolFaculty Meeting

18Elementary SchoolSecond Grade ParentVisitation Day

1715 16

Thanksgiving Break

26 28Thanksgiving Break

27High School Treasures for ChildrenProgram Ends

252422 23

29Thanksgiving Break

30

Notes

S M W T F ST

December 2009

1 2 3 4 5

6 7 8 9 10 11 12

13 14 15 17 18 1916

20 21 22 23 24 25 26

29 30 312827

Veterans Day

Thanksgiving


*


3SAT Test Date, 7:30 a.m.@ High School

Elementary PTOHoliday Kidsfest, 8 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. @ Primary Center

5Title I Parent Advisory CouncilWorkshop, 6 - 7 p.m. @ Barnes & Noble

2High School Winter Coat Drive Begins

Elementary PTOMeeting, 9:30 a.m. @ Primary Center

1



Middle School Spirit Dance/ActivityNight, 7 - 9:30 p.m.

4






S M W T F ST

November 2009

1 2 3 4 5 6 7

8 9 10 11 12 13 14

15 16 17 19 20 2118

22 23 24 25 26 27 28

3029

PTO Holiday Store @ Primary Center

December 2009




9High School ChorusConcert, 7 p.m. @Auditorium

86 7

Centennial School Band,Chorus & OrchestraConcert, 6:30 p.m. @High School Auditorium

Middle School Holiday Caroling

17 19High School StringEnsemble & ChamberEnsemble Visits toMars Area Schools

18High School TeacherAppreciation Luncheon

Middle School Band,Chorus & OrchestraConcert, 6:30 p.m. @High School Auditorium

161513High School Band &Orchestra Concert, 6:30 p.m. @ Auditorium

14

Winter Break

24 26Winter Break

25No School

Act 80 DayStaff Development

23Elementary SchoolHoliday Party, 9:15 - 10:15 a.m.

Primary Center HolidayParty, Morning Kinder-garten, 10:15 - 11:15 a.m.; Grades K-1, 2 - 3 p.m.

Centennial School Holiday Party,Grade 6, 1 - 2 p.m.Grade 5, 2 - 3 p.m.

2220Middle School Holiday Caroling

21

Winter Break

31Winter Break

30Winter Break

Mars Area Boys &Girls BasketballTournament, 6 p.m.

2927Winter Break

Mars Area Boys &Girls BasketballTournament, 6 p.m.

28

Notes

S M W T F ST

January 2010

1 2

3 4 5 6 7 8 9

10 11 12 14 15 1613

17 18 19 20 21 22 23

26 27 28 29 30252431

Pearl Harbor Day

First Day of Winter Christmas Day

New Year’s Eve

Chanakah BeginsPTO Holiday Store

@ Centennial SchoolPTO Holiday Store @ Elementary School

2


Winter Break

1






S M W T F ST

December 2009

1 2 3 4 5

6 7 8 9 10 11 12

13 14 15 17 18 1916

20 21 22 23 24 25 26

29 30 312827

New Year’s Day

January 2010


7AFS/MISA Chapter Ski Trip

9High School Winter Coat Drive Ends


8Middle SchoolFaculty Meeting


53 4

14 1615High School AFS/MISAChapter Meeting, 7 p.m

131210 11

21SAT Test Date

23No SchoolIn-Service DayClerical Day

22Market Day Pick-up, 6:30 - 7:30 p.m. @Elementary School

201917No School

In-Service DayStaff Development


18

Spring Sports Physicals,8 a.m. @ Middle School

28 3029High School BloodDrive, 8 a.m. - 1:30 p.m.

272624 25

Notes

S M W T F ST

February 2010

1 2 3 4 5 6

7 8 9 10 11 12 13

14 15 16 18 19 2017

21 22 23 24 25 26 27

28

31

Martin LutherKing Jr. Day

DIBELS/AIMS Assessment Window — Grades K - 2; DRA2 Assessment Window — Grades 1 - 2

4Sight Testing Window — Grades 3 - 8

High SchoolFaculty Meeting

4ACT Test Date


21



5






S M W T F ST

January 2010

1 2

3 4 5 6 7 8 9

10 11 12 14 15 1613

17 18 19 20 21 22 23

26 27 28 29 30252431

Groundhog DayNational School

Counselors Week

February 2010

Primary Center Valentine’s Day Party, Morning Kindergarten10:15 - 11:15 a.m.; Grades K-1, 2 - 3 p.m.

11 13Elementary SchoolValentine’s Day Party, 2 - 3 p.m.

Middle School Spirit Dance/ActivityNight, 7 - 9:30 p.m.

12High School AFS/MISAChapter Meeting, 7 p.m

Middle School Faculty Meeting

10High School “MakingYour College SearchCount” 11th GradeAssembly, 8:10 a.m.

97Middle School 7th/8thGrade Girls VolleyballPractice Begins

8

18 2019Market Day Pick-up, 6:30 - 7:30 p.m. @Elementary School

171614No School

Act 80 DayStaff Development

Primary CenterKindergarten Preview

15

Middle School Open House, 6 -8 p.m.

Spring Sports Physicals,8 a.m. @ Middle School, 1 p.m. @ High School

25 2726242321Elementary PTO“New Parent Tea,”9:30 - 11 a.m. @Primary Center

22

28

Notes

S M W T F ST

March 2010

1 2 3 4 5 6

7 8 9 10 11 12 13

14 15 16 18 19 2017

21 22 23 24 25 26 27

30 312928

Lincoln’s Birthday

President’s Day

Washington’sBirthday

Valentine’s Day Ash Wednesday


Title I Parent Advisory CouncilWorkshop, 5 - 6 p.m. @ Primary Center

Primary CenterJamboree, 6 - 8:30 p.m.

4 63Elementary PTOMeeting, 9:30 a.m. @ Middle School

2Primary Center ReadAcross America Week

1



5






S M W T F ST

February 2010

1 2 3 4 5 6

7 8 9 10 11 12 13

14 15 16 18 19 2017

21 22 23 24 25 26 27

28

Primary Center Book Fair

March 2010

11SAT Test Date, 7:30 a.m.@ High School (SAT Reasoning Only)


Centennial School Open House, 6 - 8 p.m.

High School AFS/MISAChapter Meeting, 7 p.m

1097Spring Varsity Sports Begin

8

18All-School Musical, 7:30 p.m. @ High School Auditorium

20All-School Musical, 7:30 p.m. @ HighSchool Auditorium

19Centennial School St. Patrick’s Day Party,Grade 5, 1 - 2 p.m.Grade 6, 2 - 3 p.m.


171614Spring Junior High Sports Begin


15

Elementary SchoolFamily Literacy Night,6:15 - 8 p.m.

25 27REACH/Strive Training Ends @ Mars Alliance Church

2624REACH/Strive Training Begins @ Mars Alliance Church

2321 22

No SchoolAct 80 DayParent Conferences (Grades K-8)

High School Blood Drive,8:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m.

313028 29

Notes

S M W T F ST

April 2010

1 2 3

4 5 6 7 8 9 10

11 12 13 15 16 1714

18 19 20 21 22 23 24

27 28 29 302625

St. Patrick’s DayDaylight Saving

Time BeginsFirst Day of Spring

Passover Begins

Centennial School Book Fair

4Sight Testing Window — Grades 3 - 8PTO Book Fair @ Elementary School

No SchoolAct 80 DayStaff Development(Grades 9-12)


1 3


Spring Break

2






S M W T F ST

March 2010

1 2 3 4 5 6

7 8 9 10 11 12 13

14 15 16 18 19 2017

21 22 23 24 25 26 27

30 312928

April Fool’s Day Good Friday

Apri l 2010


10Middle School ParentAdvisory BoardMeeting, 9:15 a.m.



64Spring Break

5

Primary Center Open House, 6 - 8 p.m.

High School NationalHonor Society Induction,7 p.m. @ Auditorium

15 17Middle SchoolSpirit Dance/ActivityNight, 7 - 9:30 p.m.

16High School AFS/MISAChapter Meeting, 7 p.m.

141311High School “MakingCollege & Career Count”12th Grade Assembly

EXPLORE & PLAN Test Date @ High School

12

Elementary SchoolSpring Open House,6 - 8 p.m.


212018 19

Mars Area Junior High Track & FieldInvitational, 2 p.m. @Mars Athletic Complex

2010-2011 KindergartenRegistration

29Mars Area VarsityTrack & FieldInvitational, 1 p.m. @Mars Athletic Complex

2010-2011 KindergartenRegistration

30MAC Track & FieldInvitational, 2 p.m. @Mars Athletic Complex

282725 26

Notes

S M W T F ST

May 2010

1

2 3 4 5 6 7 8

9 10 11 13 14 1512

16 17 18 19 20 21 22

25 26 27 28 292423

30 31

Easter

AdministrativeProfessionals Day Earth Day

Passover Ends

Arbor Day

* PSSA Reading & Math Testing Window — Grades 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8 & 11

* PSSA Writing Testing Window — Grades 5, 8 & 11

* PSSA Science Testing Window — Grades 4, 8 & 11


*

DIBELS/DRA2 Assessment Window — Grades K - 2; AIMS Assessment Window — Grades 1 - 2


SAT Test Date

1







S M W T F ST

April 2010

1 2 3

4 5 6 7 8 9 10

11 12 13 15 16 1714

18 19 20 21 22 23 24

27 28 29 302625

May 2010

High SchoolFaculty Meeting

Centennial SchoolTeachers Luncheon

6 8Middle School ParentAdvisory BoardMeeting, 9:15 a.m.

Coffeehouse GalleryArt Showcase, 6 -9 p.m.@ High School

7Middle SchoolFaculty Meeting

Elementary SchoolTeacher Luncheon


Title I Parent Advisory CouncilWorkshop, 5 - 6:30 p.m.@ Primary Center

Primary Center Teacher Luncheon

42 3

Centennial SchoolStudent Art Show, 6 - 8 p.m.

Safe & Drug FreeSchools & CommunityCouncil Meeting, 9 a.m.@ Administration Office

13 15No SchoolAct 80 DayStaff Development

Senior Prom

14Middle School Band,Orchestra & SeventhGrade Chorus Concert,6:30 p.m. @ High School Auditorium


12High SchoolChorus & Middle SchoolEighth Grade ChorusConcert, 6:30 p.m. @High School Auditorium

119High School Band & Orchestra Concert, 7 p.m. @ Auditorium

10


19Middle School MedievalFair, 8 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.

Centennial School Band,Chorus & OrchestraConcert, 6:30 p.m. @High School Auditorium

1816Middle School MedievalFair, 4 - 6 p.m.

17

Primary CenterOlympic Fun Day

27 2928Primary CenterFirst Grade Parent Picnic

Centennial SchoolStudent Fun Day

26Primary Center Pre-Kindergarten“Watermelon Welcome”

2523 24

Notes

S M W T F ST

June 2010

1 2 3 4 5

6 7 8 9 10 11 12

13 14 15 17 18 1916

20 21 22 23 24 25 26

29 302827

30

Cinco de Mayo

Armed Forces DayMother’s Day

No School

31

Nat’l Teacher DayNational Teacher

Appreciation Week

Nurses Day

Primary Election

* PSSA Testing Make-up Window


*

DIBELS/DRA2 Assessment Window — Grades K - 2; AIMS Assessment Window — Grades 1 - 2; 4Sight Testing Window — Grades 3 - 8


Last Day of Schoolwith One Snow Day

Fall Sports Physicals,8 a.m. @ High School

Class of 2010Commencement, 6:30 p.m @ HighSchool Auditorium

3SAT Test Date, 7:30 a.m. @ High School

5Last Day of Schoolwith Zero Snow Days

21


Last Day of Schoolwith Two Snow Days

4






S M W T F ST

May 2010

1

2 3 4 5 6 7 8

9 10 11 13 14 1512

16 17 18 19 20 21 22

25 26 27 28 292423

30 31

June 2010

No SchoolIn-Service DayClerical Day

10ACT Test Date, 7:45 a.m. @ High School

1211Last Day of Schoolwith Five Snow Days

9Last Day of Schoolwith Four Snow Days

86Last Day of Schoolwith Three Snow Days

7

17 1918161513 14

24 2625232220 21

302927 28

Notes

S M W T F ST

July 2010

1 2 3

4 5 6 7 8 9 10

11 12 13 15 16 1714

18 19 20 21 22 23 24

27 28 29 30 312625

Flag Day

Father’s DayFirst Day

of Summer


Ju ly 20101 32

Fall Sports Physicals,8 a.m. @ High School

8 109764 5

15 1716141311 12

22 2423212018 19

29 3130282725 26

Notes

S M W T F ST

June 2010

1 2 3 4 5

6 7 8 9 10 11 12

13 14 15 17 18 1916

20 21 22 23 24 25 26

29 302827

S M W T F ST

August 2010

1 2 3 4 5 6 7

8 9 10 11 12 13 14

15 16 17 19 20 2118

22 23 24 25 26 27 28

313029

Independence Day

Notes Fall Sports Physicals,8 a.m. @ High School

5 76431 2

12 141311108 9

19 2120181715 16

26 2827252422 23

3129 30


Augus t 2010

S M W T F ST

September 2010

1 2 3 4

5 6 7 8 9 10 11

12 13 14 16 17 1815

19 20 21 22 23 24 25

28 29 302726

S M W T F ST

July 2010

1 2 3

4 5 6 7 8 9 10

11 12 13 15 16 1714

18 19 20 21 22 23 24

27 28 29 30 312625

BOYS VARSITY FOOTBALL

08/22/09 — Beaver Falls (scrimmage), 10 a.m.

08/28/09 — Elizabeth-Forward (scrimmage), 6 p.m.

09/04/09 — Moon, 7:30 p.m.09/11/09 — Hopewell, 7 p.m.09/18/09 — Plum, 7:30 p.m.09/25/09 — Fox Chapel, 7:30 p.m.10/02/09 — Highlands*, 7:30 p.m.10/09/09 — Franklin Regional*,

7:30 p.m.10/16/09 — Hampton*, 7:30 p.m.10/23/09 — Indiana*, 7:30 p.m.10/30/09 — Knoch*, 7:30 p.m.

BOYS JV FOOTBALL

09/05/09 — Moon, 10 a.m.09/12/09 — Hopewell, 10 a.m.09/19/09 — Plum, 10 a.m.09/26/09 — Fox Chapel, 10 a.m.10/03/09 — Highlands*, 10 a.m.10/10/09 — Franklin Regional, 10 a.m.10/17/09 — Hampton*, 10 a.m.10/24/09 — Indiana*, 10 a.m.

BOYS 9TH GRADE FOOTBALL

09/03/09 — Penn Hills (scrimmage), 4 p.m.09/10/09 — Ford City, 6 p.m.09/17/09 — Butler, 7 p.m.09/24/09 — Burrell, 7 p.m.10/01/09 — Highlands*, 4 p.m.10/08/09 — Deer Lakes*, 6 p.m.10/15/09 — Hampton*, 7 p.m.10/22/09 — Freeport*, 6 p.m.10/29/09 — Knoch*, 4 p.m.

BOYS 7TH/8TH GRADE FOOTBALL

09/02/09 — Freeport* (scrimmage), 4 p.m.09/09/09 — North Allegheny (Carson),

6 p.m.09/16/09 — Highlands*, 4 p.m.09/22/09 — Seneca Valley, 3:30 p.m.09/23/09 — McKeesport, 3:30 p.m.09/29/09 — North Allegheny (Marshall),

4 p.m.

10/01/09 — Pine-Richland, 6 p.m.10/07/09 — Seneca Valley (Black), 3:30 p.m.10/08/09 — East Allegheny, 4 p.m.10/15/09 — New Castle, 6 p.m.10/22/09 — North Allegheny (Marshall),

5:30 p.m.10/28/09 — North Allegheny (Carson),

5:30 p.m.; Knoch*, 7:30 p.m.

BOYS VARSITY SOCCER

08/22/09 — Seneca Valley (scrimmage), 10 a.m.

08/31/09 — Indiana (scrimmage), 4 p.m.09/05/09 — Southmoreland, 8 p.m. 09/08/09 — Hampton*, 7:30 p.m.09/10/09 — Deer Lakes*, 7 p.m.09/11/09 — Pine-Richland Tournament, 6 p.m.09/12/09 — Pine-Richland Tournament, TBA09/15/09 — Kittanning*, 4 p.m.09/17/09 — Freeport*, 7 p.m.09/22/09 — Highlands*, 7 p.m.09/24/09 — Woodland Hills, 5 p.m.09/26/09 — Knoch*, 7 p.m.09/29/09 — Hampton*, 7 p.m.10/01/09 — Deer Lakes*, 7 p.m.10/06/09 — Kittanning*, 7 p.m.10/08/09 — Freeport*, 5 p.m.10/13/09 — Highlands*, 7 p.m.10/17/09 — Seneca Valley, 7 p.m.10/20/09 — Knoch*, 5 p.m.

BOYS JV SOCCER

09/08/09 — Hampton*, 6 p.m.09/10/09 — Deer Lakes*, 5:30 p.m.09/11/09 — Pine-Richland Tournament, 6 p.m.09/12/09 — Pine-Richland Tournament, TBA09/15/09 — Kittanning*, 6 p.m.09/17/09 — Freeport*, 5:30 p.m.09/22/09 — Highlands*, 5:30 p.m.09/24/09 — Woodland Hills, 3:30 p.m.09/26/09 — Knoch*, 5:30 p.m.09/29/09 — Hampton*, 5:30 p.m.10/01/09 — Deer Lakes*, 5:30 p.m.10/06/09 — Kittanning*, 5:30 p.m.10/08/09 — Freeport*, 3:45 p.m.10/13/09 — Highlands*, 5:30 p.m.10/17/09 — Seneca Valley, 5:30 p.m.10/20/09 — Knoch*, 3:45 p.m.

BOYS 7TH/8TH GRADE SOCCER09/08/09 — Shady Side Academy

(scrimmage), 3:30 p.m.09/15/09 — North Hills (scrimmage),

3:30 p.m. 09/18/09 — Shady Side Academy, 3:30 p.m. 09/21/09 — Seneca Valley*, 3:30 p.m.09/23/09 — North Hills*, 4 p.m.09/25/09 — Shaler*, 3:30 p.m. 09/28/09 — Pine-Richland*, 3:30 p.m. 09/29/09 — North Allegheny (Black)*,

3:30 p.m. 09/30/09 — North Allegheny (Gold)*,

3:30 p.m.10/02/09 — Shady Side Academy, 3:30 p.m. 10/03/09 — Butler*, 2 p.m.10/05/09 — Valley, 3:30 p.m.10/07/09 — Seneca Valley*, 3:30 p.m.10/10/09 — North Allegheny (Black)*, 3:30 p.m.10/12/09 — North Hills*, 3:30 p.m.10/13/09 — Pine-Richland*, 3:30 p.m.10/15/09 — Shaler*, 3:30 p.m.10/21/09 — North Allegheny (Gold)*, 3:30 p.m.10/22/09 — Valley, 4 p.m.10/26/09 — Butler*, 3:30 p.m.

GIRLS VARSITY SOCCER

08/27/09 — Quaker Valley (scrimmage),4 p.m.

08/31/09 — Springdale (scrimmage), 3:45 p.m.09/05/09 — Southmoreland, 6 p.m.09/09/09 — Butler*, 5:30 p.m.09/12/09 — Freedom, 1 p.m.09/14/09 — Seneca Valley*, 7 p.m.09/16/09 — Shaler, 7 p.m.09/19/09 — Hopewell, 7:30 p.m.09/21/09 — North Allegheny*, 7:45 p.m.09/23/09 — North Hills*, 7 p.m.09/26/09 — Pine-Richland*, 7:30 p.m.09/28/09 — Knoch*, 7 p.m.09/30/09 — Butler*, 7 p.m.10/03/09 — Seneca Valley*, 7:30 p.m.10/05/09 — Shaler, 7 p.m.10/07/09 — North Allegheny*, 7 p.m.10/12/09 — North Hills*, 7:45 p.m.10/14/09 — Pine-Richland*, 7 p.m.10/17/09 — Burrell, 2:30 p.m.10/19/09 — Knoch*, 7:30 p.m.

GIRLS JV SOCCER09/09/09 — Butler*, 4 p.m.09/12/09 — Freedom, 4 p.m.09/14/09 — Seneca Valley*, 5:30 p.m.09/16/09 — Shaler, 5:30 p.m.09/19/09 — Hopewell, 6 p.m.09/21/09 — North Allegheny*, 6 p.m.09/23/09 — North Hills*, 5:30 p.m.09/26/09 — Pine-Richland*, 6 p.m.09/28/09 — Knoch*, 5:30 p.m.09/30/09 — Butler*, 5:30 p.m.10/03/09 — Seneca Valley*, 6 p.m.10/05/09 — Shaler, 6 p.m.10/07/09 — North Allegheny*, 5:30 p.m.10/12/09 — North Hills*, TBA10/14/09 — Pine-Richland*, 5:30 p.m.10/17/09 — Burrell, 2:30 p.m.10/19/09 — Knoch*, 6 p.m.

GIRLS 7TH/8TH GRADE SOCCER09/10/09 — North Allegheny (Black),

3:30 p.m.09/15/09 — Butler (scrimmage), 3:30 p.m.09/18/09 — Pine-Richland (Green)*,

3:30 p.m.09/22/09 — Springdale*, 3:30 p.m.09/24/09 — Riverview*, 4 p.m.09/25/09 — North Allegheny (Gold),

3:30 p.m.09/28/09 — Knoch*, 3:30 p.m.09/30/09 — Seneca Valley (Black)*,

3:30 p.m.10/02/09 — Highlands*, 4 p.m.10/03/09 — North Allegheny (Gold), 10 a.m.

GIRLS VARSITY TENNIS08/24/09 — West Allegheny (scrimmage),

3:30 p.m. 08/26/09 — Shaler (scrimmage),

3:30 p.m.08/31/09 — Seneca Valley*, 3:30 p.m.09/02/09 — Hampton*, 3:30 p.m.09/03/09 — Butler*, 3:30 p.m.09/08/09 — North Allegheny*,

3:30 p.m.09/10/09 — MAC Tennis @ Quaker Valley,

9 a.m.09/11/09 — Pine-Richland*, 3:30 p.m.

Fall Sports 2009 Home games are in Bolddenotes conference game*

Continued on next page

09/14/09 — North Hills*, 3:30 p.m.09/15/09 — Vincentian, 3:30 p.m.09/16/09 — Knoch*, 3:30 p.m.09/17/09 — WPIAL Section Singles @

North Allegheny, 1 p.m. 09/18/09 — Shaler, 3:30 p.m.09/21/09 — Seneca Valley*, 3:30 p.m.09/23/09 — Hampton*, 3:30 p.m.09/28/09 — Vincentian, 3:30 p.m.09/29/09 — Butler*, 3:30 p.m.09/30/09 — North Allegheny*, 3:30 p.m.10/01/09 — WPIAL Section Doubles @

North Allegheny, 1 p.m. 10/02/09 — WPIAL Section Doubles @

North Allegheny, 1 p.m. 10/05/09 — Pine-Richland* 3:30 p.m.10/07/09 — North Hills* 3:30 p.m.10/12/09 — Knoch* 3:30 p.m.

GIRLS JV TENNIS

08/31/09 — Seneca Valley*, 3:30 p.m.09/02/09 — Hampton*, 3:30 p.m.09/03/09 — Butler*, 3:30 p.m.09/08/09 — North Allegheny*, 3:30 p.m.09/11/09 — Pine-Richland*, 3:30 p.m.09/14/09 — North Hills*, 3:30 p.m.09/15/09 — Vincentian, 3:30 p.m.09/21/09 — Seneca Valley*, 3:30 p.m.09/23/09 — Hampton*, 3:30 p.m.09/28/09 — Vincentian, 3:30 p.m.09/29/09 — Butler*, 3:30 p.m.09/30/09 — North Allegheny*, 3:30 p.m.10/05/09 — Pine-Richland* 3:30 p.m.10/07/09 — North Hills* 3:30 p.m.

GIRLS VARSITY VOLLEYBALL08/22/09 — Gateway (scrimmage),

10 a.m.08/29/09 — Penn Hills @ Ford City

(scrimmage), 9 a.m.09/08/09 — Ambridge*, 6 p.m.09/10/09 — Seton LaSalle*, 6 p.m.09/12/09 — MAC Tournament, 9 a.m.09/14/09 — Springdale, 6 p.m.0900000/15/09 — Freedom*, TBA09/17/09 — Highlands, 6 p.m.09/19/09 — South Fayette Tourn., 8 a.m.09/22/09 — New Brighton*, 6 p.m.09/24/09 — Knoch*, 6 p.m.

09/26/09 — JV Pine-Richland Tournament, 9 a.m.

09/29/09 — Hampton*, 6 p.m.10/01/09 — Ambridge*, 6 p.m.10/05/09 — Avonworth, 5 p.m.10/06/09 — Seton LaSalle*, 6 p.m.10/07/09 — South Fayette, 6 p.m.10/08/09 — Freedom*, 6 p.m.10/12/09 — Pine-Richland, 6 p.m.10/13/09 — Highlands, 6 p.m.10/15/09 — New Brighton*, TBA10/20/09 — Knoch*, 6 p.m.10/22/09 — Hampton*, TBA

COED VARSITY CROSS COUNTRY08/25/09 — Chartiers Valley @ Butler

(scrimmage), 3:30 p.m.09/04/09 — Knoch, 3:30 p.m.09/08/09 — Pine-Richland, 3:30 p.m.09/12/09 — Red, White & Blue Classic @

Schenley Park, 7 a.m.09/15/09 — Hopewell*, 3:30 p.m.09/19/09 — Slippery Rock Invitational @

Cooper’s Lake, 10 a.m.09/22/09 — Blackhawk*/Moon*, 3:30 p.m.09/29/09 — Montour* @ New Castle*,

3:30 p.m.10/06/09 — Ambridge* @ West Allegheny*,

3:30 p.m.10/13/09 — MAC @ Brush Creek, 2 p.m.10/14/09 — Plum/Knoch @ Boyce Park,

3:45 p.m.10/19/09 — Indiana @ Ford City10/22/09 — TSTCA @ Cooper’s Lake, 3 p.m.10/29/09 — WPIAL Championship @

Cooper’s Lake, 2 p.m.

COED JUNIOR HIGHCROSS COUNTRY09/04/09 — Knoch, 3:30 p.m.09/08/09 — Pine-Richland, 3:30 p.m.09/15/09 — Hopewell*, 3:30 p.m.09/17/09 — Hampton/Ford City/Pine-Richland/

Knoch @ Hartwood Acres, 3:30 p.m.09/19/09 — Slippery Rock Invitational @

Cooper’s Lake, 10 a.m.09/22/09 — Blackhawk*/Moon*,

3:30 p.m.09/29/09 — Montour* @ New Castle*,

3:30 p.m.10/06/09 — Ambridge* @ West Allegheny*,

3:30 p.m.10/13/09 — MAC @ Brush Creek, 2 p.m.

BOYS VARSITY GOLF

08/24/09 — Hampton*, 3:30 p.m.08/26/09 — Kittanning*, 3:15 p.m.08/28/09 — Highlands*, 3:30 p.m.09/01/09 — Moon, 3:15 p.m.09/02/09 — Deer Lakes, 3:30 p.m.09/03/09 — Shady Side Academy*,

3:15 p.m. 09/08/09 — Kiski*, 2:30 p.m.09/09/09 — Shaler, 3:30 p.m.09/10/09 — Knoch*, 3:15 p.m. 09/14/09 — Kittanning*, 3:30 p.m.09/15/09 — Hampton*, 3:15 p.m.09/16/09 — Pine-Richland, 3:15 p.m.09/22/09 — Highlands*, 3:15 p.m.09/23/09 — MAC Tournament@ Fox Run,

noon09/29/09 — WPIAL Section Qualifiers @

Highlands, 10 a.m. 09/30/09 — Shady Side Academy*, 3:30 p.m.10/01/09 — North Hills, 3 p.m.10/02/09 — Kiski*, 3:15 p.m.10/06/09 — Knoch*, 3:30 p.m.10/07/09 — WPIAL Individual Finals, TBA10/14/09 — WPIAL Team Semifinals, TBA10/16/09 — WPIAL Team Finals, TBA10/21/09 — PIAA Team & Individual

Regionals @ Heritage Hills, TBA10/26/09 — PIAA Team & Individual

Championships @ Heritage Hills, TBA10/27/09 — PIAA Team & Individual

Championships @ Heritage Hills, TBA

GIRLS VARSITY GOLF

08/25/09 — Kittanning*, 10 a.m.08/27/09 — Fox Chapel*, 3:15 p.m. 08/31/09 — Ford City*, 3:30 p.m. 09/02/09 — Kiski*, 3:15 p.m. 09/04/09 — Shady Side Academy*, 3:30 p.m. 09/08/09 — Butler, 3:15 p.m. 09/09/09 — St. Joseph’s*, 3:15 p.m. 09/11/09 — Pine-Richland*, 3:30 p.m. 09/14/09 — Kittanning*, 3:15 p.m. 09/16/09 — Fox Chapel*, 4 p.m.09/17/09 — MAC @ Blackhawk, 9:30 a.m.09/21/09 — Ford City*, 3:15 p.m. 09/23/09 — WPIAL Sectionals @ Ford City,

9 a.m.09/25/09 — Kiski*, 2:30 p.m.

09/28/09 — Butler, 3:15 p.m. 10/01/09 — Shady Side Academy*,

3:15 p.m. 10/05/09 — St. Joseph’s, 3:30 p.m. 10/07/09 — Pine-Richland*, 3:15 p.m.10/08/09 — WPIAL Individual Qualifiers,

TBA10/16/09 — WPIAL Team Finals, TBA10/21/09 — PIAA Team & Individual

Regionals @ Heritage Hills, TBA10/26/09 — PIAA Team & Individual

Championships @ Heritage Hills, TBA10/27/09 — PIAA Team & Individual

Championships @ Heritage Hills, TBA

GIRLS 7TH/8TH GRADE BASKETBALL09/09/09 — Pine-Richland (scrimmage),

3:30 p.m. 09/16/09 — Seneca Valley (scrimmage),

3:30 p.m.09/18/09 — North Hills, 3:30 p.m.09/21/09 — Butler, 3:30 p.m.09/22/09 — N.A. (Carson)*, 3:30 p.m.09/24/09 — Knoch*, 3:30 p.m.09/28/09 — Hampton*, 3:30 p.m.09/29/09 — North Allegheny (Marshall),

3:30 p.m.10/01/09 — Kittanning, 3:30 p.m.10/02/09 — Highlands*, 3:30 p.m.10/05/09 — North Hills, 3:30 p.m.10/06/09 — Deer Lakes*, 3:30 p.m.10/08/09 — North Allegheny (Ingomar)*,

3:30 p.m.10/12/09 — North Allegheny (Carson)*,

3:30 p.m.10/14/09 — Knoch*, 3:30 p.m.10/15/09 — North Allegheny (Marshall),

3:30 p.m.10/16/09 — Hampton*, 3:30 p.m.10/19/09 — Butler, 3:30 p.m.10/22/09 — Highlands*, 3:30 p.m.10/23/09 — Kittanning, 3:30 p.m.10/26/09 — Deer Lakes*, 3:30 p.m.10/28/09 — North Allegheny (Ingomar)*,

3:30 p.m.

All sports schedules are subject to change. Forup-to-date sports schedules, contact MarsArea School District Athletic Office at (724)625-9380 or visit www.highschoolsports.net.

Continued from previous page

Notification of Rights under FERPA The Family Educational Rights & Privacy Act (FERPA)

affords parents and students over age 18 (“eligible stu-dents”) certain rights with respect to the students educationrecords. They are:

1. The right to inspect and review the student’s educationrecord within 45 days of the day the District receives arequest for access. Parents or eligible students should sub-mit to the school principal (or appropriate school official) awritten request that identifies the record(s) they wish toinspect. The principal will make arrangements for accessand notify the parent or eligible student of the time andplace where the records may be inspected.

2. The right to request the amendment of the student’seducation records that the parent or eligible studentbelieves are inaccurate or misleading. Parents or eligiblestudents may ask Mars Area School District to amend arecord that they believe is inaccurate or misleading. Theyshould write to the school principal, clearly identify the partof the record they want changed, and specify why it is inac-curate or misleading.

If the District decides not to amend the record as request-ed by the parent or eligible student, the District will notifythe parent or eligible student of the decision and advisethem of their right to a hearing regarding the request foramendment. Additional information regarding the hearingprocedures will be provided to the parent or eligible studentwhen notified of the right to a hearing.

3. The right to consent to disclosures of personally identi-fiable information contained in the student’s educationrecords, except to the extent that FERPA authorizes disclo-sure without consent.

One exception which permits disclosure without consentis disclosure to school officials with legitimate educationalinterests. A school official is a person employed by theDistrict as an administrator, supervisor, instructor or sup-port staff member (including health or medical staff andlaw enforcement unit personnel); a person serving on theSchool Board; a person or company with whom the Districthas contracted to perform a special task (such as an attor-ney, auditor, medical consultant or therapist); or a parentor student serving on an official committee such as a disci-plinary or grievance committee, or assisting another schoolofficials in performing his or her task.

A school official has a legitimate educational interest if theofficial needs to review an education record in order to ful-fill his or her professional responsibility. Upon request, theDistrict discloses education records without consent to offi-cials of another school district in which the student seeks orintends to enroll. (Note: FERPA requires a school to make

a reasonable attempt to notify the student of the recordrequest unless it states in its annual notification that itintends to forward records upon request.)

School records are always open and available to parents,and ONLY to school officials who have legitimate “need toknow” information about a child. Parents seeking to review arecord should make an appointment with their child’s coun-selor or special educator. If requesting a copy of your child’srecord, it is best to put it in writing and submit requests forcumulative records (report cards, attendance, etc.) to theprincipal and requests for confidential records (IEPs, psycho-logical assessments, etc.) to the Office of Special Education.By law, the District must furnish these copies within 45 days.

4. The right to file a complaint with the U.S. Departmentof Education concerning alleged failures by the District tocomply with the requirements of FERPA. The name andaddress of the Office that administers FERPA is: FamilyPolicy Compliance Office; U.S. Department of Education;400 Maryland Ave.; SW, Washington, D.C. 20202-4605.

No Child Left Behind RequirementsOn Jan. 8, 2002, President George W. Bush signed into

law the No Child Left Behind (NCLB) Act. NCLB is designedto improve student achievement by increasing federalinvolvement in public education both at the state and locallevel. NCLB requires significant changes to schools thatreceive Title I funding. Mars Area schools receive Title Ifunding and are covered under the breadth of NCLB. TheAct requires:

1. increased accountability for States, School Districts andindividual Schools;

2. greater choice for parents, especially those in low-per-forming schools; and

3. greater flexibility for States and Local EducationAgencies in the use of federal dollars.

Under NCLB, parents have a right to review the profes-sional qualifications of their child’s teacher(s). Parents havethe right to ask for the following information about each oftheir child's classroom teachers:

1. whether the State of Pennsylvania has licensed or quali-fied the teacher for the grades and subjects he or she teach-es;

2. whether the teacher is teaching under an emergencypermit or other provisional status through which statelicensing criteria have been waived;

3. the teacher’s college major and whether the teacherhas any advanced degrees and, if so, the subject of thedegrees; and

4. whether any instructional aides or similar paraprofes-sionals provide services to their child and, if they do, theirqualifications.

Parents who would like to receive specific informationabout their child’s teacher or paraprofessional, may contacttheir School Principal. For general information about NoChild Left Behind, contact Dr. Sharon A. Kamicker, AssistantSuperintendent at (724) 625-1518. When your call isanswered by the Voice Mail, select option 5, then 2.

Evaluation & Privacy Rights of Students

Mars Area School District and its employees arerequired by law to protect the rights of students. Thefoundation of this law is the Federal FamilyEducational Rights & Privacy Act of 1974 andPennsylvania rules and regulations governing specialeducation and Chapter 15 students.

Educational Records, Directory Information & Personally Identifiable Information

Educational Records consist of information directly relat-ed to a student that is maintained by an educationalagency. Personally Identifiable Information includes thestudent’s name, the name of the parent or other familymembers, a personal identifier or a list of personal charac-teristics that would make the student’s identity easily trace-able.

Educational Records and Personally IdentifiableInformation cannot be disclosed or released without writ-ten parental consent or, if a student is over age 18, studentconsent. Certain information, called “DirectoryInformation,” can be released without consent. DirectoryInformation is information contained in an educationrecord of a student, which would not generally be consid-ered harmful or an invasion of privacy if disclosed.

The School District has designated the following asDirectory Information: student’s name, address, date andplace of birth, major field of study, participation in officiallyrecognized activities and sports, weight and height of mem-bers of athletic teams, dates of attendance, degrees andawards received, and the most recent previous educationalagency or institution attended by the student. Writtenparental consent is necessary for disclosure of informationand educational records, unless the student is transferringbetween school districts. Cumulative and confidentialrecord may be transferred between districts withoutparental authorization. The consent must:

1. specify the record that may be disclosed, 2. state the purpose of the disclosure; and 3. identify the parties to whom the disclosure may be made.

Furthermore, Mars Area School District maintains a writ-ten record of disclosure for parents to inspect in case infor-mation has been released.

Inclement Weather & School Closing DecisionsSometimes it is necessary to delay the start of classes or to close school for a day because to inclement

weather conditions. The safety of our students as they ride our school buses and drive to school is always themost important factor in any decision. Sometimes a weather advisory from the National Weather Servicegives advance notice of severe weather conditions that might effect the next school day, but no decision ismade until the morning hours before our schools would open.

How are parents/community members informed of a delay or closing?Regardless of weather forecasts during the evening news, parents may find closing or delay information via

the following resources:1. The District’s Web site — www.marsk12.org2. The District’s Community Information Line — (724) 625-1581, press 1.3. Radio & TV announcements on KDKA-TV and Radio, WTAE-TV and Radio, WPXI-TV,

WBUT/LER Radio (Butler) and WISR Radio (Butler)4. Cable Channel 50 or Digital Cable Channel 209 (MASD-TV)5. Global Connect Telephone Notification System

Who watches the weather?The Superintendent and the other school administrators carefully watch the weather conditions during the

snow season.

What are the District’s sources of information?The Superintendent and other school administrators listen to weather forecasts and review notices from

AccuWeather Snow Warning Service and the National Weather Service. The District checks withmunicipal police about road conditions starting as early as 4 a.m. The District also contacts PennDOT, theState Police and other school districts about road conditions throughout the area. Even if some streets areclear, dangerous conditions may exist in other parts of our District.

What factors are considered in the decision to close or delay?4 Information on road conditions, particularly amounts of snow and ice, from PennDOT, bus drivers

and state and local police.4 The time snow starts and the amount of snow4 Weather predictions4 Building conditions (for example, power and heat)4 Parking lot conditions4 Temperature and wind-chill factors

What choices are available?Mars Area School District may run a two-hour delayed opening, close school or announce an early release

during inclement weather.

Who makes the decision?The Superintendent makes the final decision, based on the above factors and recommendations from the

Maintenance Supervisor.

When is the decision made?The Superintendent makes the final decision no later than 6 a.m. and as early as 5:30 a.m. so that television

and radio stations, bus drivers and staff members can be notified.

What does it mean if there is a two-hour delay?A two-hour delay means that the start of school is delayed for two hours; for example, if school normally

starts at 9 a.m., then the delayed start time will be 11 a.m. Please note that your child’s bus pick-up time willbe delayed by two hours as well.

How is the Kindergarten program affected, when there is a two-hour delay?When there is a two-hour delay, Mars Area Primary Center will operate on the following “modified” kinder-

garten schedule: AM Kindergarten — 11 a.m. to 12:40 p.m. (buses will pick up students two (2) hours laterthan usual) and PM Kindergarten — 1:49 to 3:25 p.m. (buses will pick up students one (1) hour later thanusual.) Mars Area School District asks that no student be dropped off at school prior to the delayed arrivaltime. Parents whose children attend alternative child care programs are asked to notify them of the PrimaryCenter’s “modified” kindergarten schedule.

Student Assistance ProgramMars Area School District’s Student Assistance Program (SAP) and Elementary Student

Assistance Program (ESAP) offer a school-based approach to providing focused services to studentseeking support or needing interventions for academics, behavior and attendance often because ofdeeper concerns. This program is a process — not a curriculum or treatment center — that connectsprograms and services within and across school and community systems to create a network of sup-ports to help students. As a process, SAP and ESAP identify students in need of intervention, assessthese students’ specific needs and provide them with support and referral to appropriate resources.The overarching goal of this program is to remove barriers to education so that a student mayachieve academically. SAP and ESAP offer support to those students and their families.

At the core of SAP is a team of school employees, who have received specialized training fromCommonwealth of Pennsylvania-approved SAP Training Providers. The Team may include teach-ers, nurses, counselors and administrators, and is often referred to as the “Core Team” or “SAPTeam.” Representatives from community agencies may also meet with the Team as consultants.

One of the most important tasks of a SAP Team is to build a working partnership with families,focusing on the student’s success as their common goal. In addition, the Team may offer student-centered services such as education support groups, in-school mentoring and after-care resources.The Team may also assist families in identifying options for professional support when a problem isbeyond the scope of the school. Participation in the SAP is voluntary and is offered as a source ofhelp and support for the student and family. When a student is in need of assistance outside of theschool setting, knowing how and where to find assistance can be overwhelming. In cases where aproblem lies beyond the limits of the school, it is the Team’s responsibility to inform the parent ofthe problem affecting the child’s performance in school and help the student and his/her family toaccess services and resources available in the community.

Family & Student Assistance — How Does it Work?There are several basic steps a Student Assistance Team takes to build an effective partnership

with families.

1. The initial contact may be made by the parent/guardian with concerns or the SAP team maycontact the family.

2. After initial contact the parent/guardian will be invited to meet with Team members to shareinformation, observations, student strengths and common concerns.

With the family’s permission, a Student Assistance Team member may then meet with the stu-dent to gather further information, or the Team and family may meet with the student to discussthe barrier(s) to learning. Next, the SAP Team will present the family with options and resources,both in and out of school, which may be of some help to the student. The family then decides on theplan of action they find best suits their child. The plan may or may not include the StudentAssistance Team. Whatever the decision, the family and Team attempt to maintain ongoing com-munication to monitor student progress and success in school. If the family does not want the stu-dent to work with the Team, they are invited to contact the Team at any time in the future shouldthe situation or their wishes change.

The Family/Student Assistance PartnershipThe goal of the Family/Student Assistance Partnership is to encourage and support student suc-

cess in school. The Student Assistance Team attempts at all times to form a respectful family/schoolpartnership. The family and school share the common goal of supporting and maintaining studentsuccess.

As in all good partnerships, both parties have rights and responsibilities. The Student AssistanceTeam provides the family with concrete information regarding observable student behavior inschool. The Team also aids in identifying learning barriers and suggests resources and availableoptions. In turn, the family makes decisions for their child, using the information provided by theStudent Assistance Team.

For more information about Mars Area’s Student Assistance Program, contact the Office of PupilServices at (724) 898-1561, option 2, or your child’s guidance counselor.

For more information as well as Frequently Asked Questions regarding inclement weather and school closing decisions,visit the District’s Web site, www.marsk12.org, and click on the “Closings/Delays” link.

School NursesThe Pennsylvania School Code requires school districts to

provide a school nurse for every 1,500 full-time students. MarsArea School District employs three school nurses, certified by the Pennsylvania Department of Education.

One nurse is assigned to the High School; one to the MiddleSchool and Centennial School; and one to the ElementarySchool and Primary Center. Three Nurse Paraprofessionalsalso work to augment health care services delivery to theDistrict’s children. The Assistants are Licensed Nurses whowork under direct supervision of the Certified School Nurse.

If your child has a specific health concern that requires nurs-ing services during school hours, contact the school nurses,who are trained to answer questions and address parental con-cerns.

Immunization Laws

To ensure the health of students, the Pennsylvania SchoolHealth Law requires that each child have proof of the followingimmunizations before entering school:

2009-2010

4 4 doses of Diphtheria Vaccine, with the last dose on or after the fourth birthday

4 4 doses of Tetanus Toxoid, with the last dose on or after the fourth birthday

4 3 doses of Polio Vaccine4 2 doses of each of the following: Live Measles, Live Mumps

and Live Rubella (MMR) Vaccine at 12 months of age or older

4 3 doses of Hepatitis B4 One (1) dose Varicella (Chickenpox) Vaccine between 12

months and 12 years of age or 2 doses of Varicella Vac-cine administered at age 13 or after. Vaccine is required upon entrance into kindergarten or seventh grade.

2010-2011

All of the above requirements apply for the 2010-2011 school year with the following modifications:

4 2 doses Varicella (Chickenpox) Vaccine or history of the disease

4 2 doses Live Mumps (Chickenpox) Vaccine at 12 months of age or older

Children entering Seventh Grade in 2010-2011 will also berequired to have the following immunizations:

4 One (1) dose Tetanus, Diphtheria, Acellular Pertussis (Tdap),if five years has elapsed since last Tetanus immunization

4 One (1) dose Meningococcal Conjugate Vaccine (MCV)

The regulations allow for medical reasons and religious beliefs.If your child is exempt from immunizations, he/she may beremoved from school during an outbreak.

Communicable DiseaseThe Pennsylvania Department of Health has established

the following criteria for exclusion of students demonstratingsymptoms that suggest communicable diseases and infectionconditions:

4 Pink Eye — 24 hours after initiation of treatment.4 Strep Throat, Scarlet Fever — 24 hours after initiation of

treatment.4 Lice — Until treated with pediculicidal agent. Students

who have been excluded must be checked by the nurse before entering the building.

4 Chicken Pox — When the last crop of blisters are dried.4 Impetigo, Scabies and Ringworm — Until judged non-

infectious by a physician.

Body Mass Index (BMI) ScreeningBMI is a screening tool used to determine whether a child is

overweight or underweight. The measurements are required forall children enrolled in Pennsylvania schools by state law. All stu-dents in Mars Area School District will have their height andweight measured, which for students in kindergarten througheighth grade, will be used to calculate their BMI.

Like all screening tools, BMI can produce some false positivesor negatives. For example, a student may have an artificially highBMI as a result of a high level of lean body tissue or muscle, asmay be found in a well-conditioned athlete. Therefore, it is im-portant to follow up with a family doctor if a child’s BMI is high orlow. Each student’s BMI is strictly confidential and will not be dis-cussed with anyone other than the student and his/her parent orguardian. It is the parent or guardian’s responsibility to share achild’s BMI with that child’s health care provider. A child’s doctoris in the best position to evaluate that child’s overall health.

If there are any questions regarding the Growth ScreeningProgram, please contact your school nurse: Grades K-4, call (724)625-3161; Grades 5-8, call (724) 625-3145; or Grades 9-12, call(724) 625-1581.

Prescription MedicationNo prescription medication shall be administered in school

except by the direct written order of a physician. The parent orguardian must complete and sign the prescription medicationinformation form before the dispensing of prescription medica-tion can take place. Mars Area School District does not supply anyprescription medication. It is the parent’s responsibility to supplyall medications to be taken at school. Any prescription medicationmust be in its pharmacy prescription bottle. On the bottle must bethe name of the child who is to receive the medication in school.

Non-prescription MedicationNo non-prescription medication shall be administered in school

except by direct written order of a physician. The parent orguardian must complete and sign the non-prescription medica-tion information form before the dispensing of non-prescriptionmedication can take place. Mars Area School District does notsupply any non-prescription medication. It is the parent’s respon-sibility to supply all medications to be taken at school. All non-prescription medications must be labeled with the child’s name.Non-prescription medication must be the same medication as onthe physician’s written order and will not be accepted unless it isin the original box or bottle in which it was purchased.

General ScreeningA child’s hearing acuity is screened first in kindergarten and

then in grades 1, 2, 3, 7 and 11. Visual acuity is screened in everygrade. Speech and language skills are screened in kindergarten ona referral basis. Gross motor and fine motor skills, academic skills,and social-emotional skills are assessed by classroom teachers.

Screening Examinations*Students attending Mars Area School District are

required to have the following screening examinations:

4 44

4444

* Parents may choose to have their family physician or dentistgive the medical and dental exams and furnish the school with areport. The examination must be complete within one yearbefore the opening of the new school year.

Medical — original entry, grades 6 & 11Vision — annualHearing — kindergarten and grades 1, 2, 3, 7, 11

& special educationDental — original entry, grades 3 & 7Height & Weight — annualBody Mass Index — annualScoliosis (curvature of the spine) — grades 6, 7 & 8

School Health Services & Your ChildMars Area School District provides the following health serv-

ices to promote student wellness and reduce health barriersthat may influence a student’s educational program:

4 Implementation of health plans for students with specific health needs.

4 Collaboration with parents, school staff and community health agencies.

4 Health assessments including health and development history, screenings and evaluations related to growth, vision, hearing and scoliosis.

4 Monitoring and evaluation of communicable and nuisance diseases.

4 Implementation of state health and immunization laws.4 Monitor and evaluate body fat using the Body Mass

Index.

Special Education ProgrammingThe Special Education Program of Mars Area School District provides a free, appropriate

public education to exceptional students according to state and federal mandates. In compli-ance with the Individuals with Disabilities Act (IDEIA) and directives from the PennsylvaniaState Department of Education and the Federal Office of Education, the District provides serv-ices to students identified as having a disability, which necessitates specialized instruction.These services and programs are designed to meet the needs of students with physical, sensory,mental and/or emotional challenges. The District provides a continuum of services rangingfrom inclusive programming to full-time private placements for eligible students with demon-strated needs.

Life Skills Support classes are offered through the Intermediate Unit (IU) and some arehoused in the Mars Area School District school buildings. The District accesses other IU serv-ices for students whose needs are more intensive, and related services such as vision support,orientation and mobility training, physical therapy, occupational therapy, hearing supportand audiological services.

If a student is suspected of having a disability, they should be referred to their BuildingAdministrator, who will initiate the data collection and referral process. Once the child hasreceived evidenced-based interventions and data has been collected, if satisfactory progress isnot made, tests will be administered to determine the child’s handicapping condition.

For students identified as qualifying and demonstrating the need for specially designedinstruction, the Individualized Educational Planning (IEP) Team then develops the child’sprogram identifying measurable goals for success. The team consists of District staff mem-bers, which may include the principal, special education teacher, school psychologist, a general educator and other administrative staff. Parents are an integral part of the IEP Teamand should be physically present at the IEP meeting, after which a Notice of RecommendedEducation Placement (NOREP) is issued identifying the student’s placement.

Students Protected Under Section 504(Federal Law) & Chapter 15 (State Law)

Section 504 is a civil rights law that is a part of theRehabilitation Act of 1973 and prohibits discriminationagainst individuals with disabilities. Section 504 ensuresthat the child with a disability has equal access to aneducation and requires that school districts provide aFree Appropriate Public Education (FAPE) to qualifiedstudents in their jurisdictions who have a physical ormental impairment that substantially limits one or moremajor life activities. The child may receive accommoda-tions and modifications. An impairment in and of itself isnot a disability. The impairment must substantially limitone or more major life activities in order to be considereda disability under Section 504. A student is considered tobe handicapped under 504 if he or she:

4 Has a “physical or mental impairment which sub-stantially limits one or more major life activities.”

4 Has a record of such an impairment.4 Or is regarded as having such impairment.

Major life activities include: Caring for one's self, per-forming a manual task, walking, seeing, hearing, speak-ing, breathing, working, and learning are the nine majorlife activity areas.

The determination of substantial limitation must bemade on a case-by-case basis with respect to each indi-vidual student. The Section 504 regulatory provisionrequires that a group of knowledgeable persons drawupon information from a variety of sources in makingthis determination.

Section 504 is a federal anti-discrimination law intend-ed to create a level playing field in regular education. TheProtected Handicapped Student may need some accom-modations to fully participate in school activities and inthe learning process. It was not created to give unfairadvantage. Accommodations must apply only to thenamed impairment.

If you think your child may qualify or would like moreinformation please notify the Mars Area School DistrictDirector of Pupil Services at 724 898-1561, option 2,oryour child’s Guidance Counselor to schedule a meeting.

Special Education information must be published periodically,according to regulations. Address questions about its content,screening, evaluation procedures or procedural safeguards to theSupervisor of Special Education for Mars Area School District at(724) 898-1561. Parents or guardians participating in the IEPprocess are advised to keep a signed and dated copy of the mostrecent Procedural Safeguard Notice for their records. A copy ofthe notice is posted on the District’s Web site, www.marsk12.org.

Gifted EducationMars Area School District provides Gifted Support for

identified primary through secondary students. Childrenqualifying for gifted services receive a Gifted IndividualEducation Plan (GIEP) and work with the GiftedFacilitator on a program tailored to meet their needs.

The program is offered through inclusive instruction aswell as independent, individualized and small groupopportunities.

Academically challenging opportunities include onlinecollege courses, early entry to high school, high schoolAdvanced Placement (AP) courses, mentoring programs,distance learning, early entry to college and individual

study programs. Enhanced academic opportunities pro-vide students with the ability to focus on the future andmaximize their potential.

Pupil ServicesThe Office of Pupil Services is open during the school

year to assist, identify and coordinate for special needs(non-special education) students. Program supervisionincludes: Protected Handicapped Students; GeneralScreening; supervising health services; working withjuvenile and treatment programs; and supervising theStudent Assistance Program (SAP) and In-HouseTherapy Program.

Central Administration Office (724) 625-1518

Dr. William Pettigrew Jr., SuperintendentKate Rich, Secretary to the SuperintendentLori Kennedy, Secretary to the Superintendent’s Office

Dr. Sharon A. Kamicker, Assistant SuperintendentFaith Campbell, Secretary to the Asst. Superintendent

Business Office Jill L. Swaney, Business ManagerCheryl Palermo, Accounts PayableLavaughn Molnar, PayrollMary Emmett, Secretary

Technology Office Jeffrey Bitzer, Director of TechnologyEric Figgins, Administrative Assistant for TechnologyKevin Travis, Administrative Assistant for Technology

Maintenance Office Frank Randza, Maintenance SupervisorMary Ellen Rockwell, Administrative Assistant

Real Estate Tax Office (724) 625-9030Jane Roth, Real Estate Tax Contact

Transportation Office (724) 625-1507Jane Roth, Transportation Contact

Communications Office (724) 625-4589Josh Schwoebel, Director of Communications

Office of Special Education (724) 898-1561

Dr. Susan Cunnup, Director of Special EducationBarbara Conville, Secretary, Special Education Vonda McElhinny, Secretary, Special Education

Office of Pupil Services (724) 898-1561

Anna Saker, Director of Pupil Services/Grant WriterCindy Loncaric, Secretary, Office of Pupil Services

District SupportLiz Peters, Food Service Director, Nutrition Inc. (724)625-1988Scott Semow, School Psychologist, Intermediate Unit IVRichard Glosser, School Psychologist, Intermediate Unit IVA.J. Myers & Sons, Bus Contractor (724) 625-2032

District Administration/Support

Incorporated in 1985, Mars Area Foundation for EducationalExcellence (MAFEE) is a non-profit organization formed byfriends and supporters of the Mars Area School District toenhance and enrich the educational opportunities offered toMars Area School District children.

MAFEE’s volunteer Board of Trustees governs the Foundationand is dedicated to serving the goal of educational excellence.MAFEE funds mini-grants for educational enrichment proj-ects requested by faculty. These curriculum-enhancing projectsare not in the District’s operating budget, which is designatedfor specific needs. MAFEE sponsors an annual Craft Show thatis a primary source of funding. For more information or tomake a donation to MAFEE, contact Ralph Terrell, Chairman;at 1303 Union Court; Valencia Pa. 16059.

Mars Area Foundation for Educational Excellence

Building InformationMars Area High School (724) 625-1581Todd Kolson, PrincipalDale Sleva Jr., Assistant PrincipalEvelyn Dick, Secretary to the PrincipalConnie Barbish, SecretaryLori Boggs, SecretaryJanice Kuban, SecretaryLinda Maney, Library SecretaryMelanie Mertz, School Nurse

Guidance Office Press 2

Colleen Tosadori, Counselor — Class of 2013Dr. Tina V. Bigante, Counselor — Class of 2012Mark Varlotta, Counselor — Class of 2011Tanis Rose, Counselor — Class of 2010,

Student Assistance CoordinatorDiane Truver, SecretaryLaurie Dufford, Secretary

Athletic Office Press 3 Scott Heinauer, Athletic DirectorRuth Mathison, Secretary (724) 625-9380Sports Information Line (724) 625-1581

Press 3

Mars Area Middle School (724) 625-3145Richard Cornell, PrincipalConnie Weismann, SecretaryMarcia Sirney, SecretaryElisa Hunter, NurseEileen Deklewa, CounselorMelissa Langer, Secretary to Nurse/Guidance

Mars Area Centennial School (724) 625-2601Todd Lape, PrincipalAlexis Rosswog, SecretaryTerri Cornelius, SecretarySandra Williams, Library SecretaryElisa Hunter, NurseLesley Kennedy, Counselor

Mars Area Elementary School (724) 625-3161Robert Zaccari, PrincipalDonna Stockert, SecretarySheila Pappas, SecretaryMargie Mueser, SecretaryLynn Fey, School NurseAmanda J. Stahovic, Counselor

Mars Area Primary Center (724) 625-1588Dr. Elizabeth McMahon, Principal Cindy Klein, SecretaryPam Lorence, SecretaryLynn Fey, School NurseAmanda J. Stahovic, Counselor

Board of EducationMars Area School District Board of Education is a

nine-member voting body that works with Districtadministrators to create policy for the developmentand success of all Mars Area students. The SchoolBoard generally meets at 7 p.m. on the first and sec-ond Tuesday of each month. Board members are:

Kim Geyer, Vice President (724) 625-3532Marj Vincent, Vice President (724) 898-7883Rebecca Brown (724) 625-2198Dayle Ferguson (724) 772-5282Gordon Marburger (724) 538-5476H. Ross McConnell (724) 625-2314Christian Ola (412) 327-8386Christine Stroup (724) 778-9948Bonnie L. Weaver (724) 538-3397

Mars Area School Board may be contacted via e-mail at [email protected].

Board Secretary — Jill L. SwaneySolicitor — Thomas King III

Annual Budget 2009-2010Mars Area School District Business Office oversees the Dis-

trict’s finances, investment and budgeting. The School Boardapproved the 2009-2010 budget at $37,201,640 with a millagerate of 99 mills (value per mill = approximately $196,970).

The budget consists of salaries and benefits; instructional;maintenance; transportation; debt service and operational costs.The budget runs from July 1 through June 30. A copy of thebudget is available upon request at the District AdministrationOffice.District residents are responsible for the following taxes:

Real EstateAssessed on individuals owning real estate (132 mills) Due at

2% discount) — Sept. 30; Due at face — Nov. 30; Due at 10%penalty — Dec. 1.

Adams Township — Shirley Lawther (724) 321-0400 Mars Boro — Mars Area School District (724) 625-9030Middlesex Township — Jane Roth (724) 443-2862 Valencia Boro — Mars Area School District (724) 625-9030

Earned IncomeAssessed on any resident with earnings from employment.

Payments are required quarterly for self-employed and thoseindividuals that do not have wage tax withheld by their employ-er(s). Tax rate is 1% — with .5% for the school district and .5% forthe municipality in which the individual lives.

Central Tax Bureau of PA Inc. (Centax) — (800) 423-6829. Municipal collector — Check with your local municipality.

Occupation PrivilegeAssessed on individuals working in the school district and earn-

ing more than $5,000. The tax rate is $10 with $5 for the schooldistrict and $5 for the municipality. Middlesex Township assess-es a $52 emergency and municipal service (EMS) tax. If themunicipality does not enact the privilege tax, the school districtmay collect the full $10. The employer withholds this tax; taxpay-ers with multiple employers are only required to pay one time.

Centax — (800) 423-6829

Occupation AssessmentThe School District does not assess this tax. Check with your

municipality.

Use of Student PhotosPhotographs of Mars Area students may be taken periodically

throughout the school year for use by the District in publicationsincluding the District’s annual Activities & Information Calendar;quarterly newsletter, iN Mars Area magazine; weekly electronicnewsletter, The eCommunicator; and in publications made avail-able via the District’s Web site — www.marsk12.org. Photos mayalso be used on the District’s Web site itself and may be submit-ted for use by local newspapers. Students’ may or may not beidentified by name.

Mars Area provides opportunities for reporters or photogra-phers to interview and/or photograph students. A staff memberis always present. If you prefer that your child not be inter-viewed or photographed for publicity purposes, pleasenotify your child’s building principal in writing by Sept.30, 2009.

Attendance PolicyWhen a student is absent because of an illness or other reason,

the school must receive a written excuse from a parent withinthree (3) days of the student’s return to school or the absencewill be considered unexcused/illegal. Being absent from a semes-ter class for ten (10) or more days may result in course failure,regardless of the grade earned. Being absent from a year-longclass for twenty (20) or more days may result in course failureregardless of grade earned (excluding medical excuses, schoolfield trips and administration approved vacations).

The Process of Parent ConcernsTo address Mars Area School District regarding concerns with

athletic or activity matters, please follow the sequence (or chainof command) listed below:

1. Parents will first address the concern with the coach orsponsor.

2. If, not satisfied, they will then go to the activity or athleticdirector.

3. If, not satisfied, they will then go to the building principal.4. If, not satisfied, they will then go to the superintendent.5. If, not satisfied, they will then go to the school board.

School Lunch ProgramMars Area School District offers daily breakfast and lunch in

every school. The District participates in the National SchoolLunch Program, which offers discounted or free meals to eligi-ble families.

Applications for the program are distributed during the firstweek of school. All children approved for free or reduced-pricemeals the previous year are automatically eligible for the firstmonth of the next school year.

For more information about the District’s breakfast/lunchprogram, contact Jill Swaney, Business Manager, at (724) 625-9030 or file online at www.compass.state.pa.us.

District InformationSchool Board work sessions are held on the first Tuesday of each month. Regular Board meetings are held on the second Tuesday

of each month. Meetings begin at 7 p.m. in the board room at the Central Administration Office and are open to the public. Changesin the board’s meeting schedule are posted on the outside door of every school building and at the administration office. A completelist of board meeting is also available on the District’s Web site, www.marsk12.org.

Copies of the following are available in the office of each school building, in the District’s administration officeand on the District’s Web site:

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Web site — www.marsk12.orgThe eCommunicator — The District’s weekly eNewsletter is distributed via e-mail at approximately 3 pm. every Thursday. To sub-scribe, visit www.marsk12.org.Mars Area School District (MASD)-TV — Cable Channel 50 or Digital Cable Channel 209. This station is maintained by the MediaBroadcasting classes at Mars Area High School.Community Information Line — (724) 625-1581, press 1.Sports Information Line — (724) 625-1581, press 3.Electronic Bulletin Board — The District’s Electronic Bulletin Board is located in front of the High School. The Electronic BulletinBoard provides up-to-date Mars Area information each day about District-wide events and student recognition.

Agendas for the regular School Board meeting, held on the second Tuesday of each month will be available the day before theBoard meeting.The Board Meeting Communicator is a brief synopsis of the most recent School Board meeting and is available a few days afterthe Board meeting.Minutes from each School Board meeting are available after they have been board approved. If you have any questions regard-ing the Board meeting schedule, call the Superintendent’s Office at (724) 625-1518, press 8, then 2.

Blue & Gold CardCitizens of Mars Area School District who are 65 years of age

or older can receive a Blue & Gold Card for free admission toall school district athletic events. Interested residents mayreceive their free Gold Card by contacting the AdministrationOffice at (724) 625-1518, press 2. There is no annual renewaland the card will be replaced if lost or damaged.

Mars Area School DistrictAdministration Office

545 Route 228Mars, Pa. 16046

Ph:(724) 625-1518or (724) 625-9030

Fax: (724) 625-1060

Mars Area High School520 Route 228

Mars, Pa. 16046Ph: (724) 625-1581

Fax: (724) 625-4541School: 7:30 a.m. - 2:35 p.m. Office: 7:15 a.m. - 3:15 p.m.

Mars Area Middle School1775 Three Degree Road

Mars, Pa. 16046Ph: (724) 625-3145Fax: (724) 625-2147

School: 7:30 a.m. - 2:30 p.m. Office: 7 a.m. - 3:30 p.m.

Mars Area Centennial School100 Winfield Manor Drive

Mars, Pa. 16046Ph: (724) 625-2601

Fax: (724) 625-2660School: 9 a.m. - 3:20 p.m. Office: 7:30 a.m. - 4 p.m.

Office of Special Education116 Browns Hill RoadValencia, Pa. 16059

Ph: (724) 898-1561, opt. 1Fax: (724) 898-1620

Office of Pupil Services116 Browns Hill RoadValencia, Pa. 16059

Ph: (724) 898-1561, opt. 2Fax: (724) 898-1620

Mars Area Elementary School549 Route 228

Mars, Pa. 16046Ph: (724) 625-3161

Fax: (724) 625-3499School: 9 a.m. - 3:20 p.m. Office: 7:30 a.m. - 4 p.m.

Mars Area Primary Center547 Route 228

Mars, Pa. 16046Ph: (724) 625-1588

Fax: (724) 625-2280AM Kindergarten: 9 a.m. - 11:40 p.m. PM Kindergarten: 12:49 - 3:25 p.m.

School: 9 a.m. - 3:25 p.m.Office: 8 a.m. - 4 p.m.

For additional information regarding Mars Area School District including driving

directions to our schools, visit www.marsk12.org.

The mission of the Mars Area School District is to create and sustain an educational environ-ment that allows all students the opportunity to realize their maximum learning potential.

Mars Area School District is an equal opportunity education institution and will not discriminate on thebasis of race, color, national origin, sex and handicap in its activities, programs or employment prac-tices as required by Title VI, Title IX and Section 504.

The Mars Area School District 2009-2010 Activities & Information Calendar produced by Josh Schwoebel, Mars Area School District Director of Communications vv

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