IN South Fayette

Winning Artist

Senior Victoria DiGiacomo Takes First Place in SF School District's Holiday Card Competition

Township & School News Page 28

WINTER 2013 icmags.com

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CONTENTS fall

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on the cover Each year, South Fayette School District selects a holiday card featuring artwork from students, and each year, we feature that artwork on our winter cover. This year’s winner is Victoria DiGiacomo, Class of 2014, whose submission was painted on canvas.

Cover photo by Primetime Shots, Inc.

departments 4 7 10

From the Publisher IN the Loop IN Person

28 38 48

School News Township News INCognito

features 15 Special Section: Health & Wellness How to live a healthier, happier, longer life.

sponsored content Business Spotlights 16 Horizon Hospitality

Industry Insights 13 Henry Wealth Management 18 Children's Community Pediatrics 23 Fitness Fanatics

IN Community is a publication dedicated to representing, encouraging and promoting the South Fayette area and its comprising municipalities by focusing on the talents and gifts of the people who live and work here. Our goal is to provide readers with the most informative and professional regional publication in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania.

South Fayette | Winter 2013 | icmags.com 3

FROM THE

PUBLISHER PUBLISHER Wayne Dollard EDITORIAL DIRECTOR Julie Talerico j.talerico@icmags.com REGIONAL EDITORS Mark Berton [South, West and Erie] m.berton@icmags.com

At Seven Springs with my wife Lisa and our three sons.

Top-notch health care, education, banking and technology are what make Pittsburgh known, but our communities are what make us home.

Home – where you live, go to school, shop, work and play – is what IN Community Magazines is all about. Each quarter, we bring you the latest news and information about schools, businesses, nonprofits and the people who make them exceptional. We also bring you coverage of interesting events and articles about historical sites you may pass every day without even knowing. We like to surprise you with little-known facts about your community and profile intriguing people who’ve made their mark locally – and sometimes even globally.

One thing that makes our communities in western Pennsylvania special is the beautiful seasons. As autumn comes to an end and the snow begins to fall, we hope you take some time to enjoy the many winter activities our area has to offer and hit the slopes, sled ride, cross-country ski or ice skate at one of our many beautiful parks. Or simply build a snowman in the backyard!

The staff at IN Community Magazines wishes you and your family a wonderful holiday season and a happy, healthy New Year!

Wayne Dollard Publisher

Send Us Your Story Ideas!

To Advertise

We’d love to hear from you if you know someone in your community who is making a difference or has done something extraordinary. We’re also looking for interesting story ideas (little-known facts, history or other news) within your community.

As the largest magazine publisher in Western Pennsylvania, IN Community Magazines are direct mailed to more than 518,000 households, reaching 1.15 million readers. If you'd like to partner with us, please contact our general sales manager, Tamara Myers, at t.myers@icmags.com.

If you have suggestions, email us at editors@icmags.com.

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Pamela Palongue [North and East] p.palongue@icmags.com OFFICE MANAGER Leo Vighetti l.vighetti@icmags.com ADVERTISING COORDINATOR Debbie Mountain d.mountain@icmags.com DESIGN DIRECTOR Michael Miller m.miller@icmags.com DESIGNERS Cassie Brkich Jim Paladino Melissa St. Giles Anna Buzzelli Tamara Tylenda Sharon Cobb Jan McEvoy CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Jonathan Barnes Leigh Lyons Jennifer Brozak Joanne Naser Earl Bugaile Melanie Paulick Tracy Fedkoe Melissa Rayworth Brenda Haines-Cosola Marilyn Wempa Elvira Hoff Mandie Zoller Heather Holtschlag CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS Ginni Klein Kathleen Rudolph Evan Sanders Jennifer Steenson Primetime Shots Gary Zak GENERAL SALES MANAGER Tamara Myers t.myers@icmags.com SALES MANAGER Brian McKee b.mckee@icmags.com ADVERTISING SALES Sophia Alfaras Holly Hicks-Opperman Pamela Arder Aimee Nicolia Nikki Capezio-Watson Connie McDaniel Jennifer Dahlem Gabriel Negri Tina Dollard Vincent Sabatini Julie Graff Michael Silvert Robin Guest RJ Vighetti ICM PRINTING SALES MANAGER Tom Poljak ©2013 by IN Community Magazines.

All rights reserved. Reproduction or reuse of any part of this publication is prohibited without the written permission of the publisher.

Direct all inquiries, letters to the editor and press releases to:

IN Community Magazines 603 East McMurray Road McMurray, PA 15317 724.942.0940; Fax: 724.942-0968 icmags.com Please recycle this magazine when you are through enjoying it.

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South Fayette | Winter 2013 | icmags.com 5

Time for our area VolunTeers

to Shine!

Seeking nominationS for 2014

Community awardS for ServiCe exCellenCe Ce (C.a.S.e.)

What makes communities great are the special people who volunteer their time, talent and effort in order to help others. At IN Community Magazines, we would like to honor these special people who have made a positive impact in their community and whose philanthropic leadership sets an inspiring example for us all.

2013 Master of Ceremony

Andrew Stockey WTAE Channel 4

IN Community Magazines' second annual C.A.S.E. Awards will recognize volunteers from each of ICM’s 35 magazines.

Awardees will be selected in the following categories: Volunteer of the Year Youth Volunteer of the Year (21 years and younger) Small Nonprofit of the Year (staff of 10 people or less) Large Nonprofit of the Year (staff of 11 or more)

SponSored by

Awardees will be honored at an awards dinner in Spring 2014.

PlEAsE fIll ouT foRM bEloW AND sEND IN youR NoMINATIoN

Name of Nominee_______________________________________________________________________________________________ Address_______________________________________________________________________________________________________ Phone___________________________________________Email_________________________________________________________ Category (check one)

❍ Volunteer of the Year ❍ Youth Volunteer of the Year (21 years and younger ) ❍ Small Nonprofit of the Year (staff of 10 people or less) ❍ Large Nonprofit of the year ( staff of 11 or more) Which community is this nomination for?___________________________________________________________________________ Name of person submitting nomination_____________________________________________________________________________ Phone___________________________________________Email_________________________________________________________ Why are you nominating this person or nonprofit organization? Please submit a type written statement of no more than 600 words.

Send nomination form and statement to: Wayne Dollard, IN Community Magazines, 603 E. McMurray Road, McMurray, PA 15317.

If you have any questions, please contact Debbie Mountain at 724.942.0940.

Deadline for nominations is February 1, 2014.

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LOOP What’s news in South Fayette

LOCAL BUSINESSWOMAN WINNER OF SMALL BUSINESS GRANT

Intuit Quickbooks announced that local businesswoman Michelle VanBibber, president and designer for Ciao Bella Jewelry, is the winner of one of 25 small business grants awarded. Michelle plans on using this grant to expand her business.

Michelle’s company, Ciao Bella Jewelry, designs and manufactures jewelry for boutiques, museum gift shops, national parks and landmarks.

Through its fan base on Facebook and Twitter, Ciao Bella Jewelry received enough votes to move on to Round 2 of the Big Game Challenge and is in the running for a commercial during the Super Bowl.

Ciao Bella Jewelry was established in 2008 and was named after Michelle's 5-year old daughter. While traveling through Italy with her family in 2006, the Italian men marveled at her daughter's blond hair saying “Ciao Bella," which means Hello Beautiful. After returning from Europe, Michelle was looking for a name for her company and her daughter suggested using her “Italy name.”

One of Michelle’s proudest moments was when she was asked by the National Marine Corps Museum to design jewelry for its gift shop. Michelle states, “It is a huge honor to be able to provide a special piece of jewelry that has meaning to those who have served our country and their families. The Marine Corps Museum was happy with our product and recommended us to the Pacific War and the National WWII museums, which are now clients. Touring the museum, working with store buyers and talking with military friends, I came to understand the pride of serving or having a spouse who serves, along with the patriotism that arises when sacrifice is made.”

NEW SOUTH FAYETTE HISTORY BOOK IN THE WORKS

Arcadia Publishing's Images of America series will release “History of South Fayette Township” in the summer of 2014.

Original photographs, maps or postcards prior to 1950 concerning South Fayette Township are sought for consideration for possible inclusion in the book. Information sought would concern houses of worship, cemeteries, residences and people of interest, businesses, mining, recreation and other topics.

For more information contact Charlotte Smith at 724.693.9441, or by email at charlotte59@comcast.net.

FIREFIGHTER PHIL VISITS SOUTH FAYETTE

The Firefighter Phil Program kicked off its 2013-14 program with a visit to some local South Fayette elementary schools. With the involvement of South Fayette Fire District, the Firefighter Phil Program covered some important topics that all elementary-grade students should know in a fun, energized way. Much to the children’s delight, two of Firefighter Phil’s pals, Sal the Smoke Alarm and Spark the Dragon, were there to help teach the important safety lessons.

The program began with an introduction of the South Fayette Firefighters in attendance because it’s important for the children to know that the firefighters are friendly and work to keep us safe every day. They are always around to help the children if they need it.

The program captured the children’s attention with a magic trick. This trick serves to get the children focused and reinforce some valuable safety tips such as “Stop/Drop/ Roll,” “Get out & stay out” and “Stay low & go.”

One of the main points of emphasis this year during the programs was how to prevent kitchen fires. Studies show almost half — 40-percent — of fires in homes start in the kitchen. Although the children probably won’t be cooking on their own, there are still things they can be reminded of to help keep their kitchen safe. The points emphasized not touching the top of the stove; not bothering grownups when they are cooking (many fires happen because the cook was distracted); and not playing with the microwave or other appliances.

The South Fayette Fire District and the Firefighter Phil Program also want to thank the businesses that make this program possible.

ON THE CALENDAR:

The Joy of Christmas Craft Show Saturday, November 23 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.

St. Louise DeMarillac School & Parish Center, 320 McMurray Road Admission and one ticket for Chinese Auction: $2 115 crafters, bake sale, candy sale Lunch available Sponsored by the DeMarillac Guild

South Fayette | Winter 2013 | icmags.com 7

LOOP

CHILDREN’S HOSPITAL OF PITTSBURGH OF UPMC HOLDS “TOPPING OUT” CEREMONY FOR NEW LOCATION IN SOUTH FAYETTE

Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh of UPMC and Rycon Construction conducted a “Topping Out” ceremony at the new Children’s Hospital site in South Fayette Township. A steel beam was painted white and signed by representatives from Children’s, South Fayette Township, and the project team. As part of a construction tradition, the beam was then placed at the highest point of the steel structure.

The new Children’s South, set to relocate from its current location in Bethel Park to South Fayette Township in the fall of 2014,

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From left to right: Bob Rutkowski, MD, CCP-South Fayette Peds; Jan Weber, RN, CCP-South Fayette Peds; Kathy Guatteri, Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh of UPMC; Ed Gould, Children's Community Pediatrics

will house Children’s outpatient, primary care and after-hours care. New and expanded services will include: • Increased exam room space for expanded pediatric subspecialty care, including adolescent medicine, allergy, cardiology, endocrinology, ENT, gastroenterology, neurology, orthopaedics, plastic surgery and pulmonary medicine.

• State-of-the-art, pediatric-based radiology to include x-ray, fluoroscopy and ultrasound.

• Children’s Express Care South Fayette, an after-hours pediatric care center.

• 15,000 square feet of open gym and exam room space for rehabilitation services to

include speech, audiology, physical therapy and occupational therapy.

• Expansion of pediatric behavioral health services to include cognitive therapy and developmental testing.

• New expansion site for CCP–South Fayette, a primary care practice that is part of Children’s Community Pediatrics.

Built on 2.6 acres with 60,000 square feet of usable space, the new Children’s South will expand the services available at Children’s South in Bethel Park and will broaden Children’s Hospital’s service area south of Pittsburgh. ■

Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh of UPMC.

in the

South Fayette | Winter 2013 | icmags.com 9

INPERSON

South Fayette Names Library After Longtime Board Member Helping South Fayette schools in whatever way I can drives me.

Len Fornella has been an integral part of the school board since 1980.

A

By Mark Berton ll Leonard Fornella ever wanted was for people to view his alma mater in a much better academic light. It’s a story that began in the early 1960s with a young man who worked hard in a rural school district known chiefly at the time for coal mines and farming.

“Back then, we were not perceived very well academically among many other neighboring school districts,” Fornella said. He was, of course, speaking of South Fayette, a district to which his name has become permanently linked by the recent naming of the newintermediate school library in his honor. It’s an honor that Fornella appreciates, but from which he retreats in a quiet, mild-mannered way.

“It’s something that is both embarrassing and humbling at the same time,” he said. “Apart from longevity, I can’t say that I alone did anything in particular to deserve this wonderful honor. I have been only one of nine members of a board of 10 724.942.0940 TO ADVERTISE | South Fayette

—Leonard Fornella

directors for many years, and all of those different members have contributed to the accomplishments of the Ddistrict in one way or another.”

While that may be the case, Fornella’s been a part of that board since the age of 27, when he was appointed to fill a vacancy in 1980. He was young, recently out of law school, and still a bachelor. It was the pursuit of his own higher education that sparked his interest in a school board position.

Fornella was interested in serving on the school board because he wanted to help the district’s efforts in raising the academic standards at South Fayette. “It was my impression at that time, after hearing of the academic opportunities that had been enjoyed by students I met in college and law school, that South Fayette students, myself included, were perhaps not as fully prepared as they might be to compete on an even playing field with students from other districts,” he said.

During his tenure on the board, Fornella has been a part of some of the most significant decisions guiding the district’s growth and success. He has long been the district’s collective bargaining negotiator, and said he is proud to have helped resolve contracts in the 1990s and 2000s amicably, which has helped to foster staff morale and to raise performance expectations, as well as allowing for stability and uninterrupted education for students. He was

instrumental in the decision to purchase the nearby Army base and surrounding property, which provided the district with much needed additional space to move its transportation department and to construct the new intermediate school. He is, of course, very proud of the new high school, the stadium complex, the expanded middle school, and the beautiful campus that the district has been able to develop, which, along with South Fayette’s rising academic performance, have significantly helped to enhance the district’s reputation. Most importantly, however, Fornella is proud to have been a part of a team of board members that brought extremely talented administrators and staff to South Fayette, such as former superintendent Dr. Linda Hippert and current superintendent Dr. Bille Rondinelli, who have completely transformed the academic environment in the district, both in perception and in reality.

“The board was very fortunate to find the right administrators and staff members, at the right times ­— those who have that certain unbridled competitive passion to virtually will you to the level of excellence and beyond by sheer force of personality, determination and tireless work. That is what has most dramatically changed the trajectory of South Fayette,” Fornella said.

Despite his years of service for the South Fayette School district, anyone who has served the community in any way can tell you that 33 years is a lengthy volunteer commitment. Fornella said that there are certainly parts of a board member’s job that are routine, but those are offset by the many challenges that always keep it fresh and insulate him from burnout.

“Like anything else, there are mundane things that we do at board meetings,” he said.

“But there so many exciting things that are occurring in our district right now that it is difficult to become stale. Fornella noted that education, and everything that surrounds it, from the legal aspects, to curriculum, to technology and to student performance evaluations are ever changing, and the challenge of staying on top is stimulating.

“Of course, managing growth effectively in the fastest growing school district in Pennsylvania presents a particularly unique and difficult set of challenges,” said Fornella.

“Beyond everything else, I enjoy attending and watching our arts and athletics programs thrive and prosper, as these are certainly a part of the all-around academic experience.

The entire scholastic environment is extremely exciting, and keeps me refreshed and invigorated.”

So while having a library named after him is an honor, it is by no means a cap to a very long and productive school board tenure.

Talking to Fornella is akin to talking to a newly-elected school board member who is bubbling over with the prospect of so many possibilities ahead of him.

“The bottom line for me is that we still have much work to do as a district. We must constantly strive for academic excellence, and indeed perfection if that can be achieved in even small parts,” he said. “Helping

the South Fayette schools in whatever way I can to become better every day of every week drives me,” he said. “I derive immense satisfaction from watching our administrators, staff and students working very hard to achieve what I have always hoped for South Fayette – climbing to the top academically and staying there, so that our students can leave our doors fully prepared to compete with anyone, confident and proud of the education they received.” ■

South Fayette | Winter 2013 | icmags.com 11

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School News Page 16

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Please contact our General Sales Manager, Tamara Myers, at t.myers@icmags.com for more information.

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INDUSTRY INSIGHT

Your Finances

SPONSORED CONTENT

Our Dying Friend’s Wishes – Updated

Mike’s final plans for his family and desire to motivate all of us

By Philip C. Henry n the summer of 2012, my brother Dan and I wrote an article for this publication entitled “Our Dying Friend’s Wishes.” We received more positive feedback about this particular article than any other one we have ever written. That particular article then, as well as this brief update now, centers on our longtime friend and client, Mike Weinzierl. At that time, Mike allowed, yes even encouraged us to share with our readers how he was dealing with esophageal cancer and the prognosis that his medical team had sadly announced: he had less than one year to live.

Fortunately through advance planning, Mike allowed our firm to assist him in securing ample life and disability insurance years earlier, while he was insurable.

In the aftermath of his initial diagnosis, Mike indeed received very helpful disability insurance payments from 2010 until August 14, 2013, when, sadly to many loving family members, friends, employees and clients, he did pass away and his family received needed life insurance proceeds. The original article that detailed his story may be found in the newsletter section of our website, www.HenryWealth.com.

What about us?

How does Mike’s story impact any of us? While most of us may seemingly be “OK” now, there certainly may come a time when, due to an accident or illness, you may be unable to work for a prolonged period; or worse, may depart this life and leave behind loved ones who relied on your ability to earn income. Allow me to provide two simple, to-the-point examples…

Disability Insurance: The typical executive employed by a large corporation has 60% of his/her salary covered through an employerprovided policy. Here’s the all-important question: could you afford to live today on 60% of what you earn, which conversely would represent a 40% pay cut? If you would be hard-pressed to meet obligations and continue saving for retirement while in that predicament, consider immediately speaking with an insurance professional. By the way, if you own or are employed by a small business, you may not even have coverage. Thus your 40% loss could become a 100% loss. Make the call.

Life Insurance: Assume you are a breadwinner earning $125,000/ yr. You want to ensure that in the event of your death, your family would receive proceeds from an insurance policy in the amount of

I

$100,000/yr. Assuming proceeds were invested and earned a nonguaranteed, hypothetical 5% return, a $2,000,000 pool would be required to generate $100,000/yr.

Forget about which kind of insurance makes the most sense (term, whole life, universal life, etc.). More importantly, get your arms around the fact that right now, you might be woefully underinsured.

Make the call.

Who to call? While many investment advisors and financial planners are licensed to sell life and disability insurance, relatively few have gone through the rigorous requirements needed to earn the prestigious Chartered Life Underwriter (CLU) designation. Therefore we recommend that you deal with a CLU for your insurance needs. I certainly am proud to co-own and operate Henry Wealth Management with my brother Dan Henry, who, as you guessed, is a CLU. In summary, allow events like what transpired within the Weinzierl family, who are most gracious to allow us to share their story, to motivate you to consider reviewing and implementing a plan to protect your loved ones and your income, while it is still possible.

Phil Henry, ChFC, CFS, is a co-owner and founder of Henry Wealth Management, LLC, an independent financial services firm. Phil offers Securities and Investment-Advisory Services through NFP Securities, Inc., Member FINRA/SIPC. This article was co-authored by Phil’s brother and business partner, Dan Henry, CLU. Dan offers Securities through NFP Securities, Inc., Member FINRA/SIPC. Henry Wealth Management, LLC, located at 1370 Washington Pike, Bridgeville, PA is not affiliated with NFP Securities, Inc. Phil and Dan may be reached at 412.838.0200 or through email: Phil@HenryWealth.com and Dan@HenryWealth.com. The firm’s website is www.HenryWealth.com. The opinions expressed in this commentary are those of the author and may not necessarily reflect those held by NFP Securities, Inc.

South Fayette | Winter 2013 | icmags.com 13

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Great Ways to Live a Healthier, Happier, Longer Life in South Fayette

South Fayette HEALTH & WELLNESS SECTION

BY MICHELE THOMPSON

Though finding the fountain of youth (or miracle product) is unlikely, you can embrace the following ways to feel and look younger. Gleaned from age-defying experts this list is a must-keep for your desk or refrigerator for reference.

So turn the page — hack into the havoc that aging can wreak on your body! ››

South Fayette | Winter 2013 | icmags.com 17

INDUSTRY INSIGHT

Your Child’s Health

Your Child’s Oral Health Y

ou might be wondering why your child’s doctors, nurse practitioners and physician assistants are asking you about your kids’ teeth and their oral hygiene habits. Isn’t that the dentist’s job?

Actually, healthy teeth are a very important part of your child’s overall health. Kids need strong healthy teeth to chew their food, to develop speech and language skills properly, and to look good!

Dental problems can start in infancy before babies have any teeth. And, since many kids do not have their first visit to the dentist until they are 1 year of age, the pediatric health care provider is in a unique position to assess their oral health issues. In the first three years of life your child will visit his/her health care provider for checkups 12 times! These are terrific opportunities to check the mouth, educate everyone about how to care for their teeth, and support the efforts of the dentist.

The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) reports that dental caries (cavities) are the number one chronic disease of early childhood! Caries in early childhood is 5 times more common than asthma.

Four important factors contribute to your child’s oral health: DIET Dietary sugars are the bad guys! These sugars cause the growth of bacteria in the mouth that make the acid that causes tooth decay. The longer and more often teeth are exposed to dietary sugars, the higher the risk there is for cavities.

The most important thing you can do is cut down on the sweets in your child’s diet. Instead, provide fresh nutritious foods for your child. Make it easy on yourself…don’t bring sweets into your home. Allow your child to make snack choices from healthy options, not junk. For example: “Would you like an apple or some pretzels?” “Would you like crackers or yogurt?”

Limit eating and drinking between meals. Allow just one between-meal snack a day. This cuts down on exposure of the teeth to bad sugars.

Foods/beverages that are BAD for your child’s teeth include: ★ Fruit drinks, sodas, energy drinks, sports drinks (all have added sugars) ★ Candy ★ Sticky foods like dried fruit/raisins, fruit rollups ★ Cookies, cakes, snack foods Foods/beverages that are GOOD for your child’s teeth include: ★ Dairy foods like milk, cheese, yogurt ★ Protein rich foods like meat, chicken, fish, eggs (help to rebuild tooth enamel) ★ Water!

TOOTH BRUSHING Birth to 2 years: Brush twice a day (after breakfast and bedtime) using water and a baby toothbrush with soft bristles.

2 years and older: Brush twice a day and after sticky foods using a childsized toothbrush and a pea sized smear of fluoridated toothpaste. Make sure they spit it all out! Some kids love brushing their teeth and some do not. Bottom line, it has to be done; so do what you have to do! Try to make tooth brushing fun. Maybe you could sing or hum a song, set a timer while brushing, or allow your child to pick character toothpaste and a brush featuring Spiderman or Dora. Be creative! *I recommend parents brush their children’s teeth after they’ve brushed (especially at bedtime) until they are at least 6 years of age. This way you will know their teeth are really getting clean until they are good at brushing efficiently.

FLUORIDE Fluoride strengthens children’s tooth enamel and reduces tooth decay.

Fluoride comes in several different forms that all do a good job of helping to protect kids’ teeth from cavity formation.

Most of us have fluoridated drinking water with enough to protect teeth.

Make sure your kids are getting water from the tap. Most bottled water products contain only small amounts of fluoride. If your community drinking water is not fluoridated contact our office.

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SPONSORED CONTENT

Fluoride is also found in toothpastes and topical gels applied by the dentist at routine dental visits.

DENTAL VISITS The American Association of Pediatric Dentists (AAPD), the American Dental Association (ADA), and the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommend that the first visit to the dentist occur at or near one year of age.

This visit is primarily to evaluate dental problems like caries, and provide education about dental hygiene, fluoride, and diet.

FINALLY, SOME GENERAL TIPS Be a good role model for your child! Eat healthy and take care of your teeth too.

Only breast milk or formula in bottles.

Never put your child to bed with a bottle or food.

Wean completely from bottles by 1 year of age. This means you can start introducing the cup at 10 months.

Do not allow your child to have any sugar-containing beverages in a sippy cup for long periods of time. Make it water instead.

Use regular glasses and cups (without lids) instead of sippy cups when giving beverages to your toddler/preschooler.

Visit this web site for some fun interactive activities, games and information related to oral health: www.mouthhealthykids.org Pamela Heald, MSN, CRNP from the University of Pittsburgh; Board Certified in Pediatrics by ANCC (American Nurses Credentialing Center). Practicing as a Pediatric Nurse Practitioner for 26+ years.

Has done many things in pediatric practice including research and education, school health, private and hospital based practice.

Currently adjunct faculty in the graduate programs of the University of Pittsburgh, Robert Morris, and Duquesne University Schools of Nursing.

H E A L T H & W E L L N E S S / South Fayette

EAT HEALTHY EAT AN ANTI-INFLAMMATORY DIET. Holistic guru Dr. Andrew Weil recommends eating a diet high in fresh fruits and vegetables and minimal processed foods to reduce inflammation in your body.

EAT ALL NATURAL. Avoid high-calorie foods full of sugar, fat and artificial ingredients and concentrate on eating high-nutrient, high-flavor foods such as fruits, vegetables, herbs and spices.

EAT MANY SMALL MEALS. Eat something every three hours to keep your metabolism high and your blood sugar and insulin levels steady.

DON’T SKIP BREAKFAST. The easiest meal to skip but the most important. Eat something small, even if you aren’t hungry.

READ LABELS. Opt for products with at least three grams of fiber, low sugars and no hydrogenated or partially hydrogenated oils.

EAT LESS AND LIVE LONGER. Maoshing Ni, author of Secrets of Longevity: Hundreds of Ways to Live to Be 100, suggests the “three-quarters rule,” essentially not eating any more after you feel three-quarters full.

EAT AND DRINK COCONUT. The type of saturated fat in coconuts does not contribute to heart disease and it is rich in lauric acid, which boosts your immune system.

AVOID BAD FATS. Bad fats include saturated fats, which are primarily derived from animal products, and trans fats, which are used in commercial fried foods, margarines, and baked goods like cookies and crackers.

SPICE IT UP. Dr. Wendy Bazilian, author of The SuperFoodsRx Diet: Lose Weight with the Power of SuperNutrients, recommends high-antioxidant spices and herbs such as cinnamon, ginger, curry, rosemary, thyme, oregano and red pepper.

DRINK UP. Drinking water throughout the day can decrease your urges for sweets, lower your cholesterol and blood pressure, minimize pain associated with arthritis, migraines, and colitis, hydrate your skin, and help with your digestion.

LIMIT YOUR ALCOHOL INTAKE TO ONE OR TWO DRINKS PER DAY. According to the Centers for Disease Control, too much alcohol can increase your risk for developing various diseases and physiological and social problems.

DRINK TEA. Ni recommends daily tea because tea is a proven preventive and treatment for hardening of the arteries and has potent antioxidant powers.

SIDELINE THE SODA. The phosphoric acid in carbonated beverages, particularly colas, can put you at risk for osteoporosis.

SLIM DOWN WITH SOUP. People who eat soup before a meal reduce the total number of calories they consume.

DRINK RED WINE. Red wine is renowned for its many health benefits, primarily for the heart. However, new research from the Institute of Food suggests that wine may also protect you from potentially fatal food-borne pathogens, such as E. coli, salmonella, listeria, and H. pylori.

SINK YOUR TEETH INTO SUPERFOODS. Experts say superfoods can help ward off heart disease, cancer, diabetes, cholesterol, bad moods, high blood pressure, and improve digestion, skin, hair, nails, bones and teeth. Superfoods recommended by WebMD.com are beans, blueberries, broccoli, oats, oranges, pumpkin, salmon, soy, spinach, green and black tea, tomatoes, turkey, walnuts and yogurt.

EAT MORE HEALTHY FATS. According to the University of Michigan Integrative Medicine, healthy fats to include in your diet are monounsaturated fats, found in vegetable oils, nuts, seeds and some plant foods as well as polyunsaturated fats, like omega-3s found in fatty fish and omega-6s found in nuts.

MARINATE YOUR MEAT. Research from the Food Safety Consortium recommends marinades with rosemary, thyme, peppers, allspice, oregano, basil, garlic and onion to cut down on carcinogens.

P EAT A VARIETY Eating a variety of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, dairy, and omega-3 fats better ensures you get all the nutrients your body needs.

South Fayette | Winter 2013 | icmags.com 19

20 724.942.0940 TO ADVERTISE | South Fayette

H E A L T H & W E L L N E S S / South Fayette

STRESS CONTROL SMILE. Smiling lowers blood pressure, heart rate, and the stress hormone cortisol.

AROMATHERAPY. Essential oils improve your mood, reduce stress and even improve your memory. Try lavender, lemongrass, cinnamon or cedarwood.

YOGA. The Mayo Clinic recommends practicing yoga to reduce stress and anxiety.

GET KNEADED. Research from the Touch Research Institute indicates that regular massage lowers heart rate, blood pressure, anxiety levels, depression, hostility, and the stress hormone cortisol.

SEE A THERAPIST. Mental health professionals can help you deal with stress.

BEGIN WITH BREATHING. The first thing you ever did for yourself was breathe. And consciously focusing on your breath remains the epitome of self-care throughout your entire life.

P HUMOR YOUR STRESS Laughing improves circulation, lowers blood pressure, releases tension, and improves your immune system.

Reprinted with the permission from SeniorsForLife.com

LET NATURE TAKE YOUR STRESS AWAY. Being outdoors with green plants, fresh air and the sounds of nature is a proven stress buster.

GET FIT IN SOUTH FAYETTE Here are just some of the fitness classes available:

Zumba by Amanda Dernosek and Carly Lapp at South Fayette VFD

Panhandle Trail

South Fayette Fitness Center at South Fayette High School

South Fayette Parks and Recreation: Yoga with Heather Black at South Fayette Middle School LGI

661 Millers Run Rd., Cuddy Hill; 412.335.1312 zumba.carmar@gmail.com “A high intensity cardio workout full of Latin inspired music and other types to keep you movin'! Class is $6 for drop-ins and we have a 10-class punch card for $50 so you save $10!”

Come see us every Tuesday and Thursday from 7 p.m. to 8 p.m.

3640 Old Oakdale Rd., McDonald; 412.221.4542, Ext. 248 southfayette.org “South Fayette School District proudly welcomes staff, students and community members to the Fitness Center in the South Fayette High School.” For information on an affordable membership option, hours of operation and other requirements, call or visit the website.

Cemetery Hill Rd. leading into Sturgeon; 412.221.8700 parks.south-fayette.pa.us Dust off your hiking boots, snow shoes or cross-country skis and enjoy the picturesque, multi-use, non-motorized, recreational rail-trail that extends 29 miles from Walkers Mill Station in Walkers Mill, PA and ends near Weirton, WV. The park location is the 5.75-mile mark of the trail and contains a small parking lot, restrooms and a pavilion.

3700 Old Oakdale Rd., McDonald; 412.319.7441 southfayette.org A yoga mat is required.

“An introduction to yoga, the classes will concentrate on body alignment, yoga therapeutics and stress relief. Classes are designed for all ages and levels of ability.” Classes are on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 6 p.m. to 7 p.m. starting in January and proceed for five weeks. The cost is $50.00 for five weeks (once a week) and $90.00 for five weeks (twice a week).

IceoPlex

114 Southpointe Blvd., Canonsburg; 724.745.6666 iceoplexatsouthpointe.com Get fit and have fun together on an ice skating date at IceoPlex on most Friday and Saturday evenings! The cost is about $10 each for a public skating session, which includes admission and skate rental. Call or check the website for available dates and times.

South Fayette | Winter 2013 | icmags.com 21

22 724.942.0940 TO ADVERTISE | South Fayette

10 INDUSTRY INSIGHT

Your Fitness

SPONSORED CONTENT

The

Top Ten

Unwritten

Gym Rules

by Lisa Troyer he New Year is just around the corner.

More people will join a health club this January than any other time of the year.

Many have already made a call to their local gym to inquire about membership, or better yet, they have decided to look into investing in a personal trainer. Investing in one’s health is the best investment made in 2014.

We all need exercise, we are aware of the health benefits that come along with a consistent program. But when it comes right down to it, gyms can be very intimidating for the average Joe. I have been in the fitness industry for 20 years and I still find it uncomfortable when visiting other facilities. I know the feeling of walking into a gym wondering if I am in someone’s way. I don’t like when I am unfamiliar with equipment. I know it can be a very intimidating and frustrating experience.

If I feel this way, I can’t imagine how someone who is totally new to the gym scene feels.

This is probably the most significant factor in keeping people away.

If you have never worked out in a gym, but you are determined that this is the year, it will help ease your hesitation if you know the set of unwritten gym rules…aka gym etiquette. Here are the top 10 (in my book anyway):

T

1 2

ALWAYS clean up after yourself: Never leave a pool of sweat behind.

SHARE: Machines are community property; if someone’s waiting for your machine, let him/her work in while you’re resting.

DON’T DAWDLE: If you can clearly see that someone is waiting for the piece of equipment that you are using, you don’t need to rush…but don’t dawdle either.

KEEP IT DOWN: Many gym goers have seen him. You know, the guy on the treadmill screaming into his cell phone. UGH!

3

4

5 6

DON’T COMPETE: Your workout is

about you, not the person next to you.

It’s you against you.

FORGET THE MIRROR: Most gyms have wall-to-wall mirrors. These are not for vanity purposes. The mirrors are there for a safety measure. Use them to watch your form.

7

MAINTAIN PERSONAL HYGIENE:

It’s just not nice for others to smell your two-week-old training shirt that’s been stuffed in the bottom of your gym bag.

WEIGHTS: When you are finished, put them away.

8 9

KEEP THE LOCKER ROOM NEAT:

Remember that the locker room is shared space. Don’t leave your towels on the floor and don’t spread your belongings all over like you’re moving in.

10

BE ON TIME FOR GROUP CLASSES: Classes are probably

going to be packed this time of year and arriving late is a big No-No. You may get away with being 5 minutes late, but 10 minutes late is completely off-limits.

Pretty simple rules to follow, right?

Don’t let the feeling of unease be just another excuse. Make 2014 a year full of health, happiness and fitness! Make the call or stop in for a visit. Once you have accomplished that, you are halfway there. Have a wonderful holiday season!

This Industry Insight was written by Lisa Troyer. Lisa has been in the fitness industry for more than 17 years and is the owner of Fitness Fanatics in the Great Southern Shopping Center.

She currently holds four nationally recognized fitness and personal training certifications and can be reached at 412.220.4190, ext. 3 or at fitnessfanatics@verizon.net. Check out www.fitnessfanaticsinc.com for more great fitness tips.

South Fayette | Winter 2013 | icmags.com 23

H E A L T H & W E L L N E S S / H E A L T H & W E L L N E S S / South Fayette

HEALTH & FITNESS EXERCISE TO LIVE LONGER. South Fayette has many walking and biking trails to help you stay fit. According to the American Council on Exercise (ACE), regular exercise helps control blood pressure, body weight and cholesterol levels, and reduces the risks of hardening of the arteries, heart attack and stroke. Not to mention you will look and feel better!

WARM UP AND COOL DOWN. Regardless of the types of exercises you do, warming your muscles as well as cooling down with slow rhythmic stretches is key to avoiding injury, reducing soreness, and speeding up your recovery.

COMMIT TO DAILY FITNESS. Getting out there and staying active translates into better health and well-being — both physically and mentally.

FOCUS ON TOTAL FITNESS. ACE recommends aerobics and muscular conditioning along with exercises to stretch your body and promote good posture.

YEAR-ROUND EXERCISE. Don’t ditch your fitness routine because of inclement weather. Try new activities, such as snowshoeing, swimming at an indoor pool, or fitness classes at your local fitness or senior housing facility.

JOIN A HEALTH CLUB. Be social and get fit. This one’s worth its weight in sheer motivation points.

TAKE SUPPLEMENTS. Don’t mega-dose, just take a daily multivitamin and mineral supplement.

GET AEROBIC. The American College of Sports Medicine recommends getting moderate aerobic activity 30 minutes per day, five days per week or 20 minutes of vigorous cardiovascular activity, three days per week.

BREAK IT UP. Instead of 20 or 30 minutes of exercise, break up your cardio into 10-minute segments throughout the day.

MAKE WORKING OUT FUN. Getting out of the house and traveling to interesting places where you can walk around is one of the best ways to get exercise without even trying, and you get to enjoy the sightseeing, too.

PUT A SET OF DUMBBELLS BY YOUR TELEVISION SET — and use them!

STOP SMOKING. Nuff said.

PUMP IT UP. Margaret Richardson, author of Body Electric, says one pound of fat burns three calories a day while one pound of muscle burns 30 plus.

GO GREEN. Eat organic, use eco-friendly products and practice green living to protect your health as well as the environment.

CHALLENGE YOURSELF. To counteract age-related muscle loss, do exercises with progressively challenging resistance.

“We once had three generations of a family taking a Zumba class together,” said Carly Lapp, Zumba instructor. “People of all ages and all athletic ability are welcome to come and have fun and get fit with us.”

24 724.942.0940 TO ADVERTISE | South Fayette

H E A L T H & W E L L N E S S / South Fayette

COGNITIVE BOOSTERS MUSIC THERAPY. Music can regulate mood, decrease aggression and depression, improve sleep, and, because old songs are stored in memory, even create new brain cells.

BRAIN FOOD. Keep your mind sharp by eating salmon, nuts, olive oil, soy, meat, eggs, dairy, leafy greens, beans, oatmeal and dark skinned fruits.

P

TRAIN YOUR BRAIN Working a daily crossword, Sudoku puzzle or another brain teasing game can help improve your mental fitness.

ORAL HEALTH & HEARING BRUSH AND FLOSS YOUR TEETH. According to research, chronic inflammation caused by periodontal disease has been linked to a greater risk of cardiovascular disease.

TURN IT DOWN. According to the House Ear Institute, noiseinduced hearing loss is a leading cause of permanent hearing loss that can be prevented by turning down the volume on your TV, radio, or headsets to a level that you can comfortably hear.

P PRACTICE HEALTHY SLEEPING HABITS. Not getting enough nightly rest puts you at risk for accidents, depression and other illnesses, and it decreases your quality of life.

POSTURE AVOID SITTING CROSS-LEGGED. Pain management specialists at New York Chiropractic warn that crossing your legs puts excessive stress on your knees, hips and lower back.

SIT UP STRAIGHT. When you slouch or strain to look at the screen, these patterns stick and posture learns these positions.

LISTEN TO YOUR BODY. See a chiropractor, physical therapist or post-rehabilitation specialist for postural exercises to reduce pain and risk of injury.

STRETCH. Stretching your neck and chest can prevent short and tightened muscles that can lead to injury. A simple stretch involves bending your head to your shoulder, holding it there and slowly bringing it back to the mid line and then switch sides.

BELLY BUTTON TO SPINE. Not only will this exercise help you stand taller, it will take five pounds off your waistline!

HEAD UP. Instead of scrunching your head to your shoulder to hold the phone, get a headset and avoid injury to your neck and shoulders.

South Fayette | Winter 2013 | icmags.com 25

HEALTH &WELLNESS DIRECTORY Centers For Medical Weight Loss 533 Washington Avenue, Bridgeville; 877.584.4191 I am Dr. Miguel A. Marrero, who graduated from medical school at Case Western Reserve University.

A subspecialty fellowship in Reproductive Endocrinology at The Mayo Clinic has given me the skills and insights into the endocrinology aspects of obesity. I have extensive training in medical weight loss, which has led me to seek board certification by the American Board of Obesity Medicine.

Steven R. Crandall, DMD 412.833.6166 stevencrandalldmd.com Steven R. Crandall, DMD is a dental practice that prides itself on providing comprehensive treatment for our patients and their families. We are dedicated to providing optimal care through comprehensive diagnosis and treatment planning.

We strive to provide our patients with the most esthetic, comfortable, functional and long lasting dentistry that is possible to their situation to allow them to keep their teeth for a lifetime.

Children’s Community Pediatrics-South Fayette, Moon & Wexford 724.934.3334 www.childrenspeds.com Established in 1974, CCP – Moon & Wexford’s mission is to provide high-quality pediatric and adolescent medical care. In addition, we provide preventative health care which includes developmental, behavioral and nutritional assessments and age appropriate counseling with a strong emphasis on patient and parent education. We offer a variety of specialty services right within our practice including behavioral health, weight management and sports medicine services.

Gregory S. Peterson, D.M.D 1725 Washington Rd Ste. 600, Pittsburgh 412.833.3944 Our dental practice is located in Upper St. Clair near the South Hills Village Mall. Our newly designed office combines a calm atmosphere for our patients with modern laser technology. Our Team will make you feel comfortable in our cheerful atmosphere. Our team will take the time to listen to your concerns and explain procedures. We are family oriented and offer a wide range of services to your entire family.

Children’s Community Pediatrics-South Hills 724.969.6970 childrenspeds.com

The Skin Center 1.800.429.1151 Theskincentermd.com

Children’s Community Pediatrics- South Hills has been caring for children in the South hills area since 1981. We grew from a solo practice established in the 1950’s by the late Dr. Robert MacDonald to our current staff of ten providers in two offices. Our years of clinical experience help us provide quality care for routine and complicated patients.

Recognized as one of the top cosmetic surgery medical spas in the country and the largest in the region, The Skin Center Medical Spa is the premier destination for facial rejuvenation, body contouring and the treatment of vein disorders. All surgical and nonsurgical treatments are performed with precise artistry and compassionate care; under the direction of our founding medical director and board-certified cosmetic surgeon, Dominic Brandy, MD.

SOUTH FAYETTE School & Township News

South Fayette Township School District

South Fayette Township

28

Superintendent's Letter

38

South Fayette Winter Operations

30

“Trash to Treasure”

42

Yoga Classes

30

Fun Recycling FACTS

43

South Fayette Library

31

Supporting Epilepsy Awareness in the South Fayette Township School District

32

South Fayette Intermediate School’s Lunch Program — The “Cub’s Café”

33

South Fayette Foundation for Excellence’s 2nd Annual Golf Outing a Huge Success

33

Little Lions’ Academy

34

2013-2014 South Fayette Sports Schedule

35

South Fayette Township School District's Required Annual Notices

South Fayette | Winter 2013 | icmags.com 27

3680 OLD OAKDALE ROAD MCDONALD, PENNSYLVANIA 15057 PHONE 412/221.4542 FAX 724/693.0490

www.southfayette.org

South Fayette

SO U TH FAYE T TE TOWN SH I P S C HOO L D IS TRIC T NE WS

Dear South Fayette Township Community Members, It is hard to believe that we are already looking ahead to the Thanksgiving holiday. We hope that you have enjoyed many of the South Fayette Township School District’s fall Dr. Bille P. Rondinelli campus festivities.

Superintendent of Schools The recent “Senior, Senior” event, in which the district recognized participating senior students on the field and honored senior citizens with a special dinner, commemorated a memorable evening for all. The senior citizens enjoyed fellowship and a wonderful meal prepared by the Director of Food Services, Tricia Wood, and her outstanding staff. We are genuinely respectful of and thankful for the senior citizens who support the district and continue to place such a high value on the education of our children.

The autumn season and Thanksgiving presents a natural time for each of us to reflect on all that is good in our lives and to express gratitude. Author Thorton Wilder said, “We can only be said to be alive in those moments when our hearts are conscious of our treasures.”

A valued tradition and treasure of the South Fayette Township School District is the “Little Green Machine Marching Band.” They have done a dynamic job of performing at regional band festivals, including our own held in September, this year. We are looking forward to their upcoming performances as well as all of the concerts from our music department. Please check the district's website www.southfayette.org. for updated future events and do plan to join us.

completed with support from the Elementary PTA and in partnership with the “Artist in Residency” program.

Daily partners to whom we express gratitude include, but are not limited to: the elected Board of School Directors; Administration and Staff ; Students; Parents; Higher Education Institutions, Collaboratives, and/or Organizations; Regional Public and Private Schools; Businesses; Volunteers; State and Local Representatives/ Officials; Foundations; and Associations.

District goals would be impossible to implement without the aforementioned existing relationships and establishing new partnerships. We are very thankful to the Grable Foundation for the recent grant enabling South Fayette to reach out to two partner schools – Fort Cherry and Manchester Academy. The significant grant of $103,040 is making it possible for South Fayette to advance and implement the STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics) innovation model and will provide outreach and support to partner schools to help ensure sustainability in K-12 educational environments.

Partnerships and Collaboration Remain Key Factors in “Framing the Future” The 2013-2014 annual school year’s theme is “Framing the Future.” We invite you to see the student designed, beautifully framed art tiles depicted in a large frame and displayed in the main office area of the South Fayette Intermediate School. This work was

Students learning block-based programming through Scratch

Students view Scratch 28 South Fayette

One educational piece in South Fayette’s scaffolding of computational learning is e/Textiles. By using e/Textiles, grade 4 students are learning about electrical circuitry as they program and design t-shirts that light up. Students will actually program an Arduino Board to rhythmically turn LED lights on and off.

Because South Fayette is embedding computational thinking skills as part of the K-12 curriculum, we have been successful, through the Director of Technology and Innovation, Aileen Owens, in attracting the attention of national partners who serve as district advisors and collaborators for these projects. They include, but are not limited to: Indiana University (Bloomington); Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) – the Media Lab and the Mobile Center for Learning; and a professor affiliated with the Harvard Graduate School of Education. However, we are continuing to foster the wellestablished relationships with Carnegie Mellon University; The Arts Education Collaborative; and we especially value the relationship with our high school’s business collaborators.

Most recently, a district leadership team has undertaken a business model of professional development from the LUMA Institute affiliated with MAYA Design, Inc. in order to foster innovative thinking and design opportunities. The district is also continuing to advance their efforts at the high school level in collaboration with the World Affairs Council in order to integrate global perspectives into our real-world student business projects and curriculum.

In addition to the Grable Grant, the district has also been fortunate to receive a $15,000 grant from the Sprout Fund. The purpose of this grant is to enhance environmental education through sustainable gardening and the study of hydroponic systems. Students will compare and contrast the different types of growing systems and learn about locally grown healthy foods. The district’s new Innovation and Creativity (STEAM) Studios, rooftop gardens, raised garden beds, and hydroponic growing tables, provide the canvas for student learning.

Teacher Training Sprout Fund Plant Growth Hydropronics.

As part of the Sprout Fund project, a Duke University “Farm Fellow” serves as a collaborator who is providing learning simulations as students take on the role of a scientist in order to study plant growth and development. The project provides career focused thinking as students become real-world scientists conducting experiments about a sustainable farm. This grant affords the outstanding opportunity to collaborate with the Carnegie Library of Braddock; an Artist in Residence; Grow Pittsburgh; Plants, LTD; and our partner school Fort Cherry.

WPIAL/PIAA Sportsmanship Award Congratulations to our South Fayette High School and the Athletic Department for earning a third consecutive WPIAL Sportsmanship Award!

The WPIAL Sportsmanship Committee met on October 7, 2013, to review submitted applications for the 2012-2013 PIAA Sportsmanship Award. The committee examined each school’s completed self-assessment form (Parts I and II), submitted documentation, and disqualification notices.

After a thorough review of each application, the WPIAL Sportsmanship Committee selected the following four schools to receive the 2012-13 awards: Avonworth High School; Quaker Valley High School; South Park High School; and South Fayette High School.

The PIAA sportsmanship banner for the 2012-13 awardees will be presented to school officials and students at the 2013 WPIAL Sportsmanship Summit at the Heinz History Center on November 13, 2013.

Thank you to Athletic Director Joe Farkas, Principals Scott Milburn and Aaron Skrbin, as well as the coaches, players, staff, parents, students, fans, and community members, who all positively contribute to earning this prestigious award.

The South Fayette Township School District sincerely thanks the WPIAL Sportsmanship Committee for its work and recognition of all participating schools. We are especially grateful that the district’s efforts to promote the WPIAL/PIAA vision of high quality sportsmanship have been acknowledged in such a positive way.

May your fall and upcoming Thanksgiving be filled with memorable experiences shared with family and friends. Thank you for your continued support of our school district and for all you do to make our world a better place.

All the best,

Dr. Bille P. Rondinelli Superintendent of Schools South Fayette | Winter 2013 | icmags.com 29

SOU TH FAYE T TE TOW N SHI P SC HOOL DI STRIC T NE WS

Students learn e-Textile Design in Summer Institute

We are fortunate to have many outstanding dedicated and talented individuals helping South Fayette to move the district’s mission and vision, focused on academics, forward at each level.

Increasingly, mandated assessments such as the PSSA tests and the now required Keystone Exams are compelling districts to realign curriculum. As stated on the Pennsylvania Department of Education’s website, “The Keystone Exams are end-of-course assessments designed to assess proficiency in the subject areas of Algebra I, Algebra II, Geometry, Literature, English Composition, Biology, Chemistry, U.S. History, World History, and Civics and Government. The Keystone Exams are one component of Pennsylvania’s new system of high school graduation requirements. Keystone Exams will help school districts guide students toward meeting state standards.” source: http://www. education.state.pa.us/portal/server.pt/community/keystone_ exams/20436 South Fayette embraces assessments and required changes as opportunities for continuous enhancement that will better prepare our students for their post-secondary choices.

South Fayette

Mandated State Assessments: PSSA and Keystone Exams

From the Director’s desk: Tricia Wood, Director of Food Services

“Trash to

South Fayette

SO U TH FAYE T TE TOWN SH I P S C HOO L D IS TRIC T NE WS

S

Treasure”

o…how many 8 ounce plastic milk bottles does it take to make a park bench? Our new park bench just arrived today, constructed of hard plastic, heavy and sturdy, complete with our Lion logo. With the help of Ms. Betty Brdar, School Specialist from the Mid-Atlantic Dairy Association, and our South Fayette Food Service Department, we were able to turn our recycled milk bottles into a wonderful sturdy park bench that will find its home at the South Fayette Elementary School.

Approximately five years ago, we were able to implement a “recycling program” throughout the entire district. With the help of our custodians and “green” team to collect the plastic bottles, we received a grant to purchase new recycling trash receptacles and were able to place the receptacles throughout the district.

We were so impressed with the bench that we decided to start a contest. The park bench was displayed in the lobby at the elementary school, and each classroom prepared their guess as to how many 8 ounce plastic milk bottles it took to construct the bench. The bench was also displayed in the new intermediate school to give those students a chance to also guess and win a classroom prize.

Entries rolled in and we were excited to visit the winning classrooms. In the Elementary School the class winner was Mrs. Slencak’s class (Grade 1) with the guess of 40,000 bottles and in our Intermediate School the class winner was Mr. Kuglar class (Grade 4th) with a guess of 77,350 bottles.

The final answer was 130,800 bottles needed to create the bench. If these bottles were assembled into a straight line, it would measure 5.68 miles or almost 23 laps around our football stadium track. Another example would be that if you assembled the bottles in a straight line, it would stretch from South Fayette School District to downtown Pittsburgh.

By recycling these bottles we saved 2616 cubic feet of landfill space. The amount of bottles recycled to make this bench would be enough to create 619 sweaters. Recycling plastic saves as much energy as burning them in an incinerator.

We are all winners when it comes to recycling. Special thanks to all of the classrooms for joining in on our fun. We hope the elementary will enjoy the new bench.

FUN Recycling FACTS: Ms. Gina Antognoli

Thanks to our very own Intermediate School staff member, Ms. Gina Antognoli, for these statistical fun facts: ★ If these 130,800 bottles were assembled into a straight line it would measure 5.68 miles. ★ Recycling these milk bottles saved 2,616 cubic feet of landfill space. ★ The amount of material recycled would be enough to create 619 sweaters. ★ Recycling plastic saves as much energy as burning them in an incinerator.

Last year we were able to submit our bottles to earn points and qualify to receive this high top table that is placed in our new Intermediate School. Thank you to Mid-Atlantic Dairy Association for all of your assistance.

30 South Fayette

dfill ould much

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1

1. South Fayette students: Kaitlin, Jack, and Quinn with their parents, Mr. and Mrs. Kevin Ryan and Uncle, Hank Uranker participated in the Epilepsy Walk 2. Dr. Sullivan and other team members.

3. The entire South Fayette Team showing their South Fayette pride 4. Kaitlin and high school teacher, Miss Erin Giegerich catch up while walking past PNC Park

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South Fayette | Winter 2013 | icmags.com 31

SOU TH FAYE T TE TOW N SHI P SC HOOL DI STRIC T NE WS

ed to ight ur u m

n Saturday, July 13, students, family, friends, and the staff of the South Fayette Township School District’s Pupil Services Department participated in the 25th annual Epilepsy Foundation Western/Central Pennsylvania (EFWCP)’s run/walk through the North Shore of Pittsburgh.

Kaitlin Ryan, a current ninth grader at the South Fayette High School, was diagnosed with epilepsy at a very young age but continues to persevere and participate in both school and extracurricular activities. She is a remarkable young lady who’s learned to not let epilepsy define who she is. Kaitlin’s family serves as a strong advocate and support of Kaitlin’s inclusion in both family and school related activities.

The team consisted of the following members: Barb Levitt, Intermediate School Special Education Teacher and her daughter; Erin Giegerich, High School Special Education Teacher and three of her friends; Nancy Iannarelli, High School Paraeducator and her daughter; Conchetta Bell, School Psychologist; Dr. Nanci Sullivan, Director of Pupil Personnel; and the Ryan Family and friends on behalf of Kaitlin. Since July of 2013, the team has raised $720.00 which benefits those diagnosed with epilepsy/seizure disorders.

Below is information and statistics regarding epilepsy (obtained from the National Epilepsy Foundation website): • Epilepsy is a medical condition that produces seizures affecting a variety of mental and physical functions. Seizures happen when the electrical system of the brain malfunctions.

• The duration of seizures can vary person to person.

• In about 7 out of 10 people with epilepsy, no cause can be found.

• Epilepsy affects 2.2 million Americans according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

• Epilepsy affects 65 million people worldwide.

• Currently, more than 300,000 children under the age of 15 are diagnosed with epilepsy, which is also known as seizure disorder.

• You cannot catch epilepsy from anyone!

• Epilepsy is the fourth most common neurological disorder in the U.S. after migraine, stroke, and Alzheimer’s disease.

Its prevalence is greater than autism spectrum disorder, cerebral palsy, multiple sclerosis, and Parkinson’s disease combined. Despite how common it is and major advances in diagnosis and treatment, epilepsy is among the least understood of major chronic medical conditions.

• Epilepsy is often thought of as a condition of childhood, but it can develop at any point in life.

• Epilepsy may be time limited or long term in someone’s life.

South Fayette

nswer

Supporting Epilepsy Awareness in the South Fayette Township School District O

South Fayette

SO SHHIIP P SSC C HOO TRIC SOUUTH TH FAYE FAYETTTE TE TOWN TO WNS HO OLL D DIISST RICTT NE NEWS WS

South Fayette Intermediate School’s Lunch Program—

The “Cub’s Café”

“W

hat a remarkable food court,” stated a few parent volunteers. Our new “Cub’s Café” was a hit with the intermediate students on opening day. From fresh fruits and vegetables to assorted juices, these colors of the rainbow would entice any student to eat his/her fruits and veggies. Students have several choices daily: the Grille/Pizza station offers homestyle pizza with 51% whole grain crust, freshly baked and made to perfection.

Monthly we also offer personal pan pizza, pizza dipping sticks or grille sandwiches. Our Deli-Delight station offers fresh oven roasted turkey deli wraps, gourmet Chef Salad with hardboiled egg, cheese, meat, assorted spring mix/lettuces, homestyle wheat roll; Meatless Meal with a yogurt and string cheese, and a Peanut Butter and Jelly meal with string cheese. We also offer a hot meal of the day featured on our monthly menu posted on our school website (www.southfayette.org). Each day, students should select a main entrée and add one fruit, up to two vegetables and a milk to create a meal.

Our lunch program is operated in-house and provides most of the high-end items students learn to expect. Our cafeteria staff consists of 34 employees which operates four schools within our district. Our cafeteria staff also oversees the operations and food safety of the larger concession stand during home football games. With one of the best HACCP (Food Safety Plans) in place, our nutritional services rank with 260 diamond awards from the Allegheny County Health Department.

32 South Fayette

We have also earned three first place City of Pittsburgh Advisory Board Awards of Excellence for our Food Safety program.

“We were so excited to open our fourth food court within the District. The new Intermediate School kitchen is beautiful and so efficient,” says Ms. Tricia Wood, Director of Food Services for South Fayette. “It is all about healthy, fresh choices. The students are so excited.” We service approximately 3000 staff and students District wide within three and a half hours. Our other schools offer soup and salad bars, deli bars, toast your own bagel station and Belgian waffle stations.

Just a few reminders - Free & Reduced Meal Applications can be submitted at any time throughout the school year. You can print a copy of the application from our school website or click on the “COMPASS” link to submit an electronic copy.

View our “foodservice website” to take a tour and learn everything you need to know about our food courts. We will also continue offering our “online” credit card payment system (myschoolbucks) offered by Heartland School Solutions/Comalex. Parents should visit: http://educate. myschoolbucks.com to register for a student account.

For questions about on line payment set up, call the myschoolbucks hotline at 1.855.832.5226. You can send a payment in with your student or to any main office.

We look forward to a great school year and are excited to be able to offer your students such wonderful meal choices.

N

inety-seven golfers took part in the 2nd Annual Golf Outing sponsored by South Fayette Foundation for Excellence. This year’s event took place on July 8th at the beautiful PGA manicured course at Southpointe. The registration package included 18 holes of golf, a full breakfast and lunch buffet, complimentary beverages and snacks throughout the course, and door prizes, raffles, and a silent auction of sports memorabilia. The event would not have been successful without the support of local and regional businesses, and individual sponsors of the event.

All proceeds of the outing provide South Fayette School District teachers with the opportunity to submit grants to enhance their classroom programs over and above what the district can afford. To date the foundation has awarded $19,000 in grants to benefit K-12 students’ academic curriculum.

Mark your calendars for the 3rd Annual Golf Outing on July 14, 2014, at Southpointe Golf Course.

T

he South Fayette Elementary School holds two weeks of fun classes in the summer for students in kindergarten through sixth grade. This summer’s Little Lions’ Academy was held July 8 - 11 and July 15 – 18 from 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

The staff of instructors included South Fayette teachers, residents, and nonresidents. High school students that are members of the National Honor Society were also able to assist instructors and receive community service hours for their time. The classes offered at this summer’s Little Lions’ Academy allowed elementary and intermediate school students to get physically fit in Mr. Chappel’s “Ultimate Outdoor Sports” class; become a master baker in “Baking Treats with Sweets;” and explore the world of science in “The Young Scientist.” Students who were enrolled in “Exploring Our Imagination in the World of Art” with Ms. Masa had a blast painting their own version of Starry Night. “Hip-Hop Hooray” students learned various hip-hop movements and performed short dances for their parents on the final day of class. Other students had the chance to launch their own rocket in the “Basic Model Rocketry” course, while another group of students edited a video using iMovie in Mr. Wachter’s class, “South Fayette on the Silver Screen.”

Throughout the two weeks, students were engaged in activities such as soccer, baking, model rocket building, dancing, storytelling, bird watching, and baton twirling. Other classes offered throughout the two weeks included “All About American Girls,”“Super Summer Sports,”“Come Fly with Us,” “Get a Clue,”“A Taste of Spanish,”“ZipA-Dee-Doo-Dah Days,”“Serious Science Experiments,”“Around the World—In Less Than a Week,”“Karate and Bullying/ Predator Prevention,”“Little Lions’ Soccer Starters,”“Tiny Twirlers,”“The Fundamentals of Wrestling,”“Stories Brought to Life,”“Under the Sea,”“Travel the World in Four Days,” and “Shooting for Soccer Skills.” The Little Lions’ Academy is a successful event that takes place every year, and we look forward to seeing you next summer for more new and exciting classes!

South Fayette | Winter 2013 | icmags.com 33

SOU SOUTH TH FAYE FAYETTTE TE TOW TOWNNSHI SHIPP SC SCHOOL HOOL DI DISTRIC STRICTT NE NEWS WS

South Fayette Foundation for Excellence’s 2nd Annual Golf Outing a Huge Success

Little Lions’ Academy

South Fayette

“We were so excited to open our fourth food court within the District.

The new Intermediate School kitchen is beautiful and so efficient.”

2013-2014 SOUTH FAYETTE HIGH SCHOOL SOUTH FAYETTE HIGHVARSITY SCHOOL VARSITY & JUNIOR VARSITY JUNIOR VARSITY BOYS&BASKETBALL BOYS BASKETBALL SECTION V - CLASS “AAA” Dism. SECTION V - CLASS “AAA”

2013-2014 SOUTH FAYETTE MIDDLE SCHOOL 7TH & 8TH GRADE JV/VARSITY BOYS BASKETBALL SOUTH FAYETTE MIDDLE SCHOOL 7TH & 8TH GRADE JV/VARSITY BOYS BASKETBALL SOUTHWEST CONFERENCE 7TH & 8TH GRADE JV/VARSITY BOYS BASKETBALL SOUTHWEST CONFERENCE SOUTHWEST CONFERENCE

2013-2014 SOUTH FAYETTE MIDDLE SCHOOL 7th & 8th GRADE JV/VARSITY Monday Dec. 9 Moon (Scrimmage) Gym) Time – (Middle Bus SchoolDism.

BOYS BASKETBALL SOUTHWEST Thursday Dec. 12CONFERENCE Hopewell

SO U TH FAYE T TE TOWN SH I P S C HOO L D IS TRIC T NE WS

Bus

Time Bus Gym) Dism.

Time Bus Dism.

TuesdaySchool Gym) Dec. 17 Away Quaker Valley (Middle School Away 3:30 2:15 2:00 Moon (Scrimmage) – (Middle 3:30 2:30 2:15 Tuesday Nov. 262:00 *Moon1:45 (Scrimmage) Away 3:30 2:30 ---Thursday Dec. 19 Home Ambridge (Junior Away 3:30 Hopewell 3:30 High School ----- Gym) ----Tuesday Dec. 4 *Vincentian/Quaker Valley (Scrimmage) Home 3:30 -------Moon (Scrimmage) – (Middle School Gym) Away 3:30 2:30 2:15 Nov. 262:30 *Moon2:15 (Scrimmage) Away 2:30 3 Away Montour (David Away 3:30 Quaker Valley (Middle Friday School Gym) Jan. 3:30 E. Williams 2:15School) 2:00 Friday Dec. 6 *Fort Cherry Tip-Off Tournament Away TBA TBA ---Home 3:30 Hopewell --------Tuesday *Vincentian/Quaker Valley Home 4 (Scrimmage) 3:30 ----7 Away Brentwood 3:30 Home 3:30 ---------Ambridge (Junior HighTuesday School Gym) Jan. 2:00 1:45 Saturday Dec. 76------ *Fort Cherry Away TBA TBA ---AwayAllegheny 3:30 2:15 2:00 Quaker Valley School Gym) Jan. Friday Thursday 9 Away West Home 3:30 ----- Tip-Off Tournament Montour (David(Middle E. Williams School) 3:30 2:30 2:15 Monday Dec. 97------ *Hopewell Home 6:00 -------Away 3:30 2:00 1:45 Ambridge (Junior HighTuesday School Gym) Jan. 14 Home Saturday *Fort Cherry Away TBA TBA Moon Home 3:30 ----- Tip-Off Tournament Brentwood 3:30 ---------Friday Dec. 1392:15 South Park Away 6:00 4:45 Away (Junior 3:30 High School 2:30 Gym) ----Montour (David E. Williams School) Jan. 16 Home 2:15 Monday *Hopewell Home -------Thursday Hopewell Away 3:30 2:00 West Allegheny 3:30 -----Saturday Dec. 14 *Shady Side Academy Away 1:00 11:30 AM ---Home 3:30 Brentwood ---------Friday 13 South Park 4:45 6:00 Tuesday Jan. 21 Home Quaker Valley Home 3:30 --------Moon 3:30 ---------Wednesday Dec. 18 *Seton LaSalle Home 6:00 -------Home 3:30 West Allegheny ---------Saturday 14 *Shady Side Academy Away 1:00 11:30 AM Ambridge 3:30 Home 3:30 --------Hopewell (Junior High Thursday School Gym) Jan. 23 Away 2:15 2:00 Friday Dec. 20 Oaks (Varsity: 7:45 – Main Gym Home 6:00 -------Home Side Beaver 3:30 Tournament Moon Valley ---------Wednesday 18 ----- Keystone *Seton----LaSalle Friday Jan. 24 Home South Away TBA Quaker 3:30 --------6:00------ Auxiliary Gym)7:45 – Main Gym Away Side Beaver 3:30 Tournament 2:15 Hopewell (Junior HighSaturday School Gym) Jan. 25 Home 2:00 Friday Dec. 20 ----- JV: Keystone Oaks (Varsity: Home ---6:00 ----South Away TBA Ambridge 3:30 --------Friday Dec. 27 *Peters Township Holiday Tournament Away 6:00 4:30 ---Home 3:30 Quaker Valley --------Monday Jan. 27 Away Montour 2013-2014 Home 3:30 ----- JV: 6:00 ------ Auxiliary Gym) South Side Beaver Tournament TBA --------Saturday Dec. 28 *Peters Township Holiday Tournament Away TBA TBA ---Home Ambridge 3:30 --------Friday 27 4:30 6:00 Wednesday Jan. 29 Away Fort Cherry TBA Home 3:30 --------South Side Beaver Tournament --------Friday Jan. Away 6:00 4:30 ---AwayAllegheny South Side Beaver Tournament TBA(Middle School ----- Gym)--------Saturday Dec. 283 2:30 Waynesburg *Peters2:15 Township Holiday Tournament TBA TBA Friday 2013-2014 Jan. 31 Home West Away 3:30 Montour 3:30 ----SOUTH Tuesday Jan. 73 McGuffey Home 6:00 -------Away FAYETTE South Side Beaver Tournament TBA HIGH SCHOOL --------Friday Waynesburg Away 4:30 Fort Cherry Home 3:30 --------Friday Jan. 107 Montour Away 6:00 5:00 ---Home Montour 3:30 --------Tuesday McGuffey Home ----2013-2014 West Allegheny (Middle School Gym) Away 3:30 2:30 2:15 Tuesday Jan. 14 Chartiers Valley Home 6:00 -------Home SOUTH FAYETTE HIGH SCHOOL Fort Cherry 3:30 --------Friday Montour Away 5:00 10 BOYS/GIRLS SWIMMING & DIVING First Day Of Practice: Monday, December 3, 2012 Friday Jan. 17 South ParkValley (Varsity: 6:00 – Main Gym Home 6:00 -------Away 2:30 West Allegheny (Middle School Gym) 3:30 2:15 Tuesday Chartiers 14 2013-2014 SOUTH*Non-Conference FAYETTE HIGHGames SCHOOL JV: 7:30Park – Auxiliary ---Friday South (Varsity:Gym) 6:00 – Main Gym Home ----Jan. 17 6:00 BOYS/GIRLS SWIMMING & DIVING -7th Grade Games Played First. SECTION VI - CLASS “AA” First Day Of Practice: Monday, December 3, 2012 Wednesday Jan. 22 *Washington Away 6:00 4:45 ---JV: 7:30 – Auxiliary Gym) -All South Fayette Home Games Played At South Fayette Middle School. *Non-Conference Games SOUTH FAYETTE MIDDLE SCHOOL Friday Jan. 24 Keystone Oaks Away 6:00 4:45 ----BOYS/GIRLS SWIMMING & DIVING Wednesday 22 *Washington FirstGrade Day OfGames Practice: Monday, 2013-2014 -7th Played First. December 3, 2012 SECTION VI - CLASS “AA” Saturday Jan. 25 *Laurel Highlands Home 12:30 -------Friday Away 4:45 24 Keystone Oaks 6:00 ----*Non-Conference GamesGames Played At South Fayette Middle School.

-All South Fayette Home 28 Waynesburg Home 6:00 -------Saturday Bus Jan. Dism.

25 *Laurel Highlands7TH & 8TH GRADE 12:30 TimeTuesday -7th Grade Games Played First.

SECTION VI - CLASS 2013-2014 FAYETTE HIGH“AA” SCHOOL BOYS/GIRLS SOUTH FAYETTE MIDDLE SCHOOLHome Friday Jan. 31 McGuffey Away 6:00 4:30 ---Tuesday ----28 Waynesburg -All South Fayette Home Games PlayedSOUTH At South Fayette Middle School.

Montour Home 6:00 ---Friday & DIVING Dec. 6 SECTION *Mt. LebanonVI - CLASS “AA” AwayDism. 6:00Tuesday ----4 Friday 4:30 Feb. Away 4:30 Jan. McGuffey(Senior Recognition) ----Time BusSuperintendent: SWIMMING Head 8th (Var.)Side Coach: Dr. Bille31 Rondinelli JUNIOR VARSITY & VARSITY Chartiers Valley Away 6:00 ---Thursday Dec. 12 Grade *Shady AcademyJoe DiDonato Jr. Away 6:00Friday Tuesday 4:00 Feb. ----74 Home Montour (Senior Recognition) 5:15 ----7TH & 8TH GRADE Head 7th Grade (J.V.) Coach: Principal: Mr. David Deramo Time Bus Dism. *Butler Away 6:00 ---Tuesday Dec. 17 *Chartiers Valley Away Away 6:00Monday Friday 4:45 Feb. ----107 Chartiers Valley Friday Dec. 6 *Mt. Lebanon 6:00 4:30 ---4:00 5:15 Trainer: Robert McCabe, Jr. Assistant Principal: Mr. Thomas Kaminski Head 8th Grade (Var.) Coach: Joe DiDonato Jr. Superintendent: Dr. Bille Rondinelli Friday Dec. 27 *West Allegheny Diving Away ---TBAMonday TBA Feb. ----10 Away ---*Butler 6:00 Thursday Dec.Coach: 12 *Shady Side Academy Away Invitational 6:00 4:00Athletic GIRLSVARSITY BASKETBALL 4:00 Director: Mr. Joe Farkas Head 7th GradeDec. (J.V.) Principal: Mr. David Deramo JUNIOR & VARSITY Friday 6 *Mt. Lebanon Away 6:00 4:30 ---Saturday 28Superintendent: *West Allegheny Swimming Invitational Away ---TBA*Non-Section TBA ---- J.V. Games Played First.

Tuesday Dec. Coach: 17 *Chartiers Valley Jr.Dec. Away 6:00 4:45 Head 8th Grade (Var.) Joe DiDonato Dr. Thomas Bille Rondinelli Athletic Director’s6:00 Assistant: 4:45 Games Mrs. Kathy Demnyan Trainer: Robert McCabe, Jr. Assistant Principal: Mr. Kaminski Thursday Dec. 12 *Shady Side Academy Away 6:00 4:00 ---Thursday Jan. 2 Cornell (No Diving) Away ---Friday Dec. Coach: 27 *West Allegheny Diving Invitational Away TBA TBA ---Head 7th Grade (J.V.) Principal:Director: Mr.Joe David Deramo *Non-Section Games J.V. Games Played First.

Mr. Farkas Tuesday Valley Swimming 6:00 4:45 -------SOUTHWEST CONFERENCE Tuesday 7Athletic *Canon McMillanAway Home 6:00 -------GIRLS BASKETBALL Saturday Dec. Dec. 1728 *Chartiers *West Allegheny Invitational Away TBA TBA Trainer: Robert McCabe,Jan. Jr. Assistant Principal: Mr. Thomas Kaminski Superintendent: Dr. Bille Rondinelli Director’s Assistant: Mrs. KathyTBA Demnyan Friday Allegheny Diving Away -------TBA Thursday Jan. Invitational 9Athletic Bishop Canevin Home 6:00Athletic Director: --------Joe Farkas Thursday Dec. Jan. 27 2 *West Cornell (No Diving) Away 6:00 4:45 Athletic Director: Mr. Joe Farkas Colors:InvitationalGreen/WhiteAway Mascot: Lions Phone Number: SOUTH (412) 221-4542 Head Coach: Rich Bonnaure Principal: Mr. Scott MilburnDism.

2013-2014 FAYETTE MIDDLE SCHOOL 7TH & 8TH GRADE JUNIOR Athletic Director: Joe Farkas Superintendent: Dr. Bille Saturday 28 *West Allegheny Swimming ---Dec. TBA TBA Time BusRondinelli Saturday *Central York Assistant: HighHome School Invitational TBA TBA ---Tuesday Jan. 7 *Canon McMillan Jan. 11Athletic 6:00 ----- Away ---Director’s Mrs. Kathy Demnyan SOUTHWESTAssistant CONFERENCE Coach: Canton Principal: Mr. Aaron Skrbin Head Coach: Rich Bonnaure Principal: Scott Milburn Thursday 6:00 4:45 -------Jan. 2 9 Cornell (No Diving) Jan. 16 Obama AcademyAway Thursday Away 6:00Assistant 4:30 ----Dwayne Thursday Jan. Bishop Canevin Home 6:00 ----VARSITY & VARSITY GIRLS BASKETBALL SOUTHWEST CONFERENCE Coach: Zewe Athletic Assistant: 3:30 Mrs. Kathy Demnyan Colors: Green/White Mascot: Lions 23 Carlynton Phone Number: (412)----221-4542 Dwayne Canton(Scrimmage) AssistantDirector’s Principal:Home Mr. Aaron Tuesday McMillan Home 6:00 -------Monday ----Oct. ---14Richard Hopewell ---- Skrbin ---Thursday 6:00Assistant Saturday Jan. Jan. 711 *Canon *Central York HighJan. School Invitational Away TBA TBA Home Time Bus Dism.

Assistant Coach: Mark Keener Zewe (High School Gym) Athletic Director’s Away Assistant: 3:30 Mrs. Kathy Thursday Canevin Home 6:00 -------916 Bishop 17Richard Ambridge 2:15 Demnyan 2:00 Thursday 30 Northgate Away 6:00Thursday 4:15 Oct. ---Thursday Jan. Jan. Obama Academy Away 6:00 (412)----4:30 Colors: Green/White Mascot:Jan. Lions Phone Number: 221-4542 Rev. 9/27/13 Assistant Coach: Rich Mack Mark Keener Saturday *Central York High School Invitational Away ---Jan. 11 TBA TBA Monday Feb. 3 *Peters TownshipHome 6:00Monday ---Friday 4:30 Oct. 24 Moon (Middle School Gym) Away 3:30 2:30 2:15 Thursday Jan. 23 Carlynton 6:00 ----- Away ---Oct. 14 Hopewell Home 3:30 ------Trainer: Robert McCabe, (Scrimmage) Jr. Assistant Coach: Rich Mack Thursday Academy Feb. 11 *Hopewell Away 6:00 4:30 -------Jan. Tuesday 6:00Thursday Monday ----Oct. ---28 Montour (High School Gym) Home Thursday Jan. 1630 Obama Northgate Away 6:00 4:15 Home 17 Away 3:30 3:30 ---- 2:15 ---- 2:00 Rev. 9/27/13 Jan. Trainer: ----- Oct. ---RobertAmbridge McCabe, Jr. Thursday 6:00 -----------Thursday Recognition) 6:00Friday Monday Feb. 23 3 Carlynton *Peters Township Feb. 13 Montour (SeniorHome Away 6:00 4:30 Home Tuesday Oct. 29 West Allegheny (Middle School Gym) Away 3:30 3:30 2:30 2:30 2:15 2:15 Moon (Middle School Gym) Oct. 24 Away 2013-2014 Thursday Away 6:00 4:15 -------Rev. 9/27/13 Jan. Tuesday Feb. 3011 Northgate *Hopewell Home 6:00 ----Friday Nov. 1 Hopewell High Gym) Away 3:30Number: 2:00 ---Monday Montour(Junior Home 3:30 2:15 Oct.Green/White 28 Colors: Mascot: Lions Phone (412)----221-4542 Monday Township Away 6:00 4:30 -------Thursday Feb. Feb. 313 *Peters Montour (Senior Recognition) Home 6:00 ----Tuesday Nov. 5 Ambridge Home 3:30Number: ---- 2:15 Tuesday West Allegheny 3:30 ---2:30 Oct.Green/White 29 (Middle School Gym) AwayPhone Colors: Mascot: Lions (412) 221-4542 Tuesday Home 6:00 -------Feb. 11 *Hopewell SOUTH FAYETTE * Non-Section Meet HIGH SCHOOL Thursday Nov. 7 Montour (David E. Williams) Away 3:30 2:30 2:15 2:00 Friday Hopewell (Junior High Gym) 3:30 2:15 Nov. 1 Away Rev. 10/1/13 Thursday Home 6:00 -------Feb. 13 Montour (Senior Recognition) Tuesday Ambridge Home 4:45 3:30 3:30 ---- ---- ---Nov. 85 South Friday Side Beaver Tournament (Vs. Freedom) Away Rev. 10/1/13 Nov. - Possible Invitationals Be Added To This Schedule (To Be Determined). * Non-Section Meet Thursday Montour Williams) Nov. 97 South Away TBA 3:30 TBA 2:30 ---- 2:15 Saturday Nov. Side(David BeaverE.Tournament Away VARSITY &WillJUNIOR VARSITY Friday South Side Beaver Tournament (Vs. Freedom) Home Nov. 128 Moon Away 3:30 4:45 ---- 3:30 ---- ---Tuesday Nov. GIRLS BASKETBALL *- Possible Non-Section Meet Invitationals Will Be Added To This Schedule (To Be Determined).

Saturday SouthAllegheny Side Beaver Tournament Nov. 139 West Away 3:30 TBA ---- TBA ---- ---Wednesday Nov. Home Athletic Director: Joe Farkas Superintendent: Dr. Bille Rondinelli Tuesday Moon Home Nov. 12 Friday Nov. 15 Carlynton Home 3:30 3:30 ---- ---- ---- ---- Possible Invitationals Will Be AddedHead To This Schedule (To Be Determined).

SECTION VMatt - CLASS Coach: Tucker “AAA” Principal: Mr. Scott Milburn Wednesday West Allegheny Home Nov. 13 2013-2014 SOUTH FAYETTE HIGH SCHOOL VARSITY & JUNIOR VARSITY GIRLS Monday Nov. 18 West Allegheny (Middle School Gym) Away 3:30 3:30 2:30 ---- 2:15 ---Assistant Coach: Jackie Jones Assistant Principal: Mr. Aaron Skrbin Athletic Director: Joe Farkas Superintendent: Dr. Bille Rondinelli Friday Carlynton Home 3:30 3:30 ---- ---- ---- ---Nov. 20 15 South Wednesday Nov. Side Beaver Home Assistant Coach:SECTION LukePrincipal: Modrak Athletic Director: Mr. Joe Farkas Head Coach: MattBASKETBALL Tucker Mr. Scott Milburn V CLASS “AAA” Monday West Allegheny (MiddleGym) School Gym) Nov. 22 18 Freedom Away 3:30 3:30 2:00 2:30 1:45 2:15 Friday Nov. (Middle School Away Athletic Director: JoeJackie Farkas Superintendent: Dr. Bille Rondinelli Assistant Coach: Melanie MillerPrincipal: Athletic Director’s Mrs. Kathy Demnyan Assistant Coach: Jones Assistant Aaron SkrbinAssistant: 2013-2014 Wednesday Home 3:30 ------Nov. 20 South Side Beaver TimeMr.Mr.Scott Bus Dism.

Head Coach:Coach: Matt Principal: Diving Coach: Christopher Rebholz Assistant LukeTucker Modrak Athletic Director: Mr. Joe Milburn Farkas Friday Freedom (Middle School Gym) 3:30 2:00 1:45 Nov. 22 Away Assistant Coach: Jackie Jones Assistant Principal: Mr. Aaron Skrbin Trainer: Robert McCabe, Jr. Assistant Coach: Nov. Melanie Miller Park (Scrimmage) Athletic Director’s Assistant: Mrs. Kathy----Demnyan ----Saturday 30 *Bethel Home 10:00 AM SOUTH Assistant Coach: Luke Modrak Rebholz Athletic Director: Mr. Joe Farkas All Home Games Will Be Played At Middle School Gym. FAYETTE MIDDLE SCHOOL Diving Coach: Christopher Tuesday *Fox Chapel (Scrimmage) Athletic Director’s Assistant: Home --------3 Miller 4:00 Assistant Coach: Dec. Melanie Mrs. Kathy Demnyan Junior Varsity Game Played First Varsity Game Played Trainer: Robert McCabe, Jr. Friday ----6 *Ambridge Away TBA TBA All Home Games Will Be Played At Middle School Gym.Second.

Diving Coach: Dec. Christopher Rebholz Tip-Off Tournament JUNIOR HIGH WRESTLING Colors: Green/White Mascot: Phone Number: (412) 221-4542 First Practice: Monday, 7, 2013 Game Played Saturday Dec. ----7 *Ambridge Tip-Off Tournament Away Lions TBA TBA Junior Varsity Game PlayedOctober First - Varsity Second.

Trainer: Robert McCabe, Jr. Tuesday Dec. 10 *Bishop Canevin ----Away 6:00 4:45 First Practice: Monday, October 7, 2013 Colors: Green/White Number: (412) 221-4542 ----Thursday Dec. 12 South Park Mascot: Lions Away Phone6:00 4:45 SECTION I 2013-2014 SOUTH FAYETTE MIDDLE SCHOOL Tuesday Home ----Dec. 17 *Elizabeth Forward 6:00 7th Grade Coach: Marie Piccirilli Superintendent: Dr. Bille Rondinelli Colors: Green/White Rev. 9/27/13 Mascot: Lions Phone Number: (412) 221-4542 Friday Home --------Dec. 20 Keystone Oaks (Varsity – 6:00 – Main Gym 6:00 8thGrade Grade Coach: Coach: Scott Principal: Deramo JUNIOR 7th MarieLitwinovich PiccirilliHIGH WRESTLING Superintendent:SECTION I Mr. Dave Dr. Bille Rondinelli ----JV – 7:30 Auxiliary Gym) Trainer: Robert McCabe, Jr. Assistant Principal: Mr. Thomas Dism.

Time Bus 8th Grade Coach: Scott Litwinovich Principal: Mr. DaveKaminski Deramo Rev. 9/27/13 Friday ----Dec. 27 *Bethel Park Holiday Tournament Away TBA TBA Athletic Director: Mr. Joe Trainer: Robert McCabe, Jr. Assistant Principal: Mr.Farkas Thomas Kaminski Saturday ----Dec. 28 *Bethel Park Holiday Tournament Away TBA TBA Rev. 9/27/13 Saturday Nov. 23 Chartiers Valley (Mega-Scrimmage) Away 9:00Mrs. AMMr. 8:15 AM ----Athletic Director’s Assistant: Kathy Athletic Director: JoeDemnyan Farkas 2013-2014 Thursday ----Jan. 2 Quaker Valley Away 6:00 4:30 Wednesday Dec. 4 Peters Township/West Mifflin (Scrim.)

Athletic Director’sAway Assistant: 4:00 Mrs. Kathy2:45 Demnyan 2:30 Monday Home ----Jan. 6 Moon 6:00 ----Wednesday Dec. 11 Carlynton Away 6:00 5:00 ----Thursday ----Jan. 9 Montour Away 6:00 5:00 Friday Dec. 13 South Fayette Tournament (HS Gym)HIGH SCHOOL HomePhone Number: TBA (412) 221-4542 --------SOUTH Colors: Green/White Mascot: Lions FAYETTE Saturday ----Jan. 11 *Peters Township Away 2:30 1:30 Saturday Dec. 14 South Fayette Tournament (HS Gym) Home TBA ----Colors: Green/White Mascot: Lions Phone Number: (412) 221-4542 ----Monday Home ----Jan. 13 Trinity 6:00 ----Wednesday Dec. 18 Jefferson (Mt. Lebanon) Home 6:00 --------VARSITY WRESTLINGAway Friday Home ----Jan. 17 South Park (Varsity – 7:45 – Main Gym 6:00 ----Thursday 6:00 4:45 2 South Park ----Rev. 8/21/13 Jan. JV – 6:00 Auxiliary Gym) Rev. 8/21/13 Jan. Wednesday Away 6:00 8 Fort Cherry 5:00 ----Thursday ----Jan. 23 Keystone Oaks Away 6:00 4:45 Friday Jan. 10 *Keystone Oaks Tournament TBA TBA TBA SECTION I - CLASS “AA”Away Friday ----Jan. 24 *North Hills Away 6:00 4:15 Saturday Away Jan. 11 *Keystone Oaks Tournament TBA TBA ----Monday Jan. 27 Quaker Valley Home 6:00 --------Wednesday Jan. 15 Chartiers Houston 6:00 --------2013-2014 2013-2014 Home Thursday ----Jan. 30 Moon Away 6:00 5:00 Wednesday Jan. 22 *Upper St. Clair Home 4:00 --------Saturday ----Feb. 1 *Washington Away 1:30 12:15 Friday Away 4:00 Jan. 24 *Albert Gallatin Quads 2:00 1:45 HIGH SCHOOL Home Monday ----Feb. 3 MontourSOUTH (SeniorFAYETTE Recognition) 6:00 ----Dism Thursday Home 6:00Time Jan. 30 Mt. Lebanon SOUTH FAYETTE HIGH SCHOOL -----Bus ----Thursday ----Feb. 6 Trinity Away 6:00 4:45 Friday Away 3:30 2:15 Jan. 31 *Montour Duals 2:00 Monday Home Feb. 10 *Canon McMillan 6:00 ----23 Peters Twp./Charleroi (Tri-Scrim.)

9:00 AM TBA 8:00 AM ---FridaySaturday Feb. Nov. Regional Tour.

(Norwin HS) Away Away TBA 14 Southwest TBA VARSITY WRESTLING VARSITY WRESTLING Saturday Feb. Nov. 30 Chartiers Valley Mega-Scrimmage 9:00 AM TBA 8:00 AM ---Saturday Regional Tour.

(Norwin HS) Away Away TBA 15 Southwest ----*Non-Section Games Friday Dec. 6 *Chartiers Houston Inv. Tournament Away TBA TBA TBA SECTION I - CLASS “AA” SECTION I CLASS “AA” Saturday Dec. 7 *Chartiers Houston Inv. Tournament Away TBA TBA ---*Non-Section Matches Monday Thursday Monday Tuesday Thursday Thursday Tuesday Friday Thursday Tuesday Friday Thursday Tuesday Tuesday Thursday Thursday Tuesday Tuesday Thursday Thursday Tuesday Friday Thursday Saturday Friday Monday Saturday Wednesday Monday Friday Wednesday Friday

South Fayette

Time

2013-2014 SOUTH FAYETTE HIGH SCHOOL VARSITY & JUNIOR VARSITY BOYS Away 3:30 2:30 2:15 Bus Dism.

SECTION V - CLASS “AAA” Time Home 3:30 ----- BASKETBALL -----

Dec. Dec. Dec. Dec. Dec. Dec. Dec. Jan. Dec. Jan. Jan. Jan. Jan. Jan. Jan. Jan. Jan. Jan. Jan. Jan. Jan. Jan. Jan. Jan. Jan. Jan. Jan. Jan. Jan. Jan. Jan. Jan.

9 12 179 12 19 17 3 19 7 93 147 169 14 21 16 23 21 24 23 25 24 27 25 29 27 31 29 31

Athletic Director: Head Coach: Assistant Coach: Volunteer Coach: Volunteer Coach:Nov. Saturday Trainer:

Saturday Friday Colors: Saturday Wednesday Rev. 10/1/13 Wednesday Thursday Saturday Wednesday Saturday Wednesday Friday

Wednesday

Dec.

Saturday

Wednesday Friday Thursday Saturday Thursday Wednesday Saturday Wednesday Friday

Dec. Jan. Dec. Dec. Jan. Jan. Jan. Jan. Jan. Jan. Jan.

11

Carlynton

Away

Joe Farkas Superintendent: Dr. Bille Rondinelli Wednesday Dec. 18 Avella Home 2013-2014 SOUTH FAYETTE WRESTLING I - CLASS “AA” Matt Bacco Principal: Mr. ScottHIGH MilburnSCHOOL VARSITY Thursday Jan. SECTION 2 South Park Away Athletic Director: Joe Farkas Superintendent: Steve Maiolo Assistant Principal: Saturday Jan. 4 Valley Duals Away Dism Time Mr. Aaron Bus Skrbin HeadWednesday Coach: Stefan Chausard Principal: Colleen Hough Athletic Director’s Assistant Mrs. Kathy Demnyan Jan. 8 Fort Cherry Away Assistant Coach: Josh Totterdale Assistant Principal: Bria Gwosden Saturday Side Beaver Duals Away Jan. 11 South 23 Peters Twp./Charleroi (Tri-Scrim.)

Away 9:00 AM 8:00 AM ---Nov. Peters Trainer: Robert 23 McCabe, Jr. Twp./Charleroi (Tri-Scrim.)

Athletic Director: Robert McCabe, Jr. Wednesday Houston (Senior Recognition) Home Jan. Nov. 30 Chartiers Valley Mega-Scrimmage Away 9:00 AM 8:00 AM ---Saturday Nov. 15 30 Chartiers Valley Mega-Scrimmage Away Athletic Director’s Assistant: Friday *Allegheny County Tournament Away Jan. Dec. 6 *Chartiers Houston Inv. Tournament Away TBA TBA TBA Dec. 176 *Chartiers Houston Inv. Tournament Green/White Mascot: Lions Phone Number: (412) 221-4542

Dec. Dec. Dec. Jan. Jan. Jan. Jan. Jan. Jan.

7 11 18 2 4 8 11 15 17

*Chartiers Houston Inv. Tournament Carlynton Avella South Park Valley Duals Fort Cherry South Side Beaver Duals Chartiers Houston (Senior Recognition) *Allegheny County Tournament 34 South Fayette (@ Fox Chapel High School) Saturday Jan. 18 *Allegheny County Tournament (@ Fox Chapel High School) Friday Jan. 24 *Bedford Tournament Saturday Jan. 25 *Bedford Tournament Thursday Jan. 30 *Mt. Lebanon

Away Away Home Away Away Away Away Home Away

TBA 7:00 7:15 7:30 TBA 7:30 TBA 7:15 TBA

TBA 5:00 ----4:45 TBA 5:00 TBA ----TBA

------------TBA ---------TBA

Away

TBA

TBA

----

Saturday

Away Away Home

TBA TBA 7:15

TBA TBA -----

----------

Friday Jan. Saturday Jan. Athletic Director: Thursday Jan. Head Coach: Assistant Coach:

Saturday Wednesday Rev. 10/1/13

(@ Fox Chapel High Inv. School) *Chartiers Houston Tournament *Allegheny Carlynton County Tournament (@ Fox Chapel High School) Avella *Bedford South ParkTournament *Bedford Tournament Valley Duals *Mt. Lebanon Fort Cherry South Side Beaver Duals Chartiers Houston (Senior Recognition) *Allegheny County Tournament (@ Fox Chapel High School) 18 *Allegheny County Tournament (@ Fox Chapel High School) 24 *Bedford Tournament 25 *Bedford Tournament Joe30Farkas *Mt. Lebanon Superintendent: Rick Chaussard Principal: Ron Totterdale Assistant Principal: 7 18 11 18 242 254 308 11 15 17

Away Away Home Away Away Home Away Away Home Away

7:00 5:00 ---7:15 -------7:30 4:45 ---Dr. Bille Rondinelli TBA TBA TBA Dism Time Bus Mr. David Deramo 7:30 5:00 ---Mr. Thomas Kaminski TBA TBAAM ---9:00 AMJoe Farkas 8:00 Mr. 7:15AM -----AM ---9:00 Mrs. Kathy8:00 Demnyan TBA TBA TBA TBA TBA ---TBA TBA ---7:00 5:00 7:15 -------TBA TBA ---7:30 4:45 TBA TBA ---TBA 7:15 -------7:30 5:00 TBA TBA ---7:15 -------TBA TBA TBA

Away

TBA

TBA

Away Away Home

TBA TBA TBA TBA Dr. Bille Rondinelli 7:15 ----Mr. Scott Milburn Mr. Aaron Skrbin

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PENNSYLVANIA’S DEFINITION OF HIGHLY QUALIFIED TEACHER: To satisfy the definition of Highly Qualified Teacher, teachers must: 1. Hold at least a bachelor’s degree; 2. Hold a valid Pennsylvania teaching certificate (i.e., Instructional I, Instructional II or Intern certificate but not an emergency permit); and 3. Demonstrate subject matter competency for the core content area they teach.

In Pennsylvania, the NCLB core content areas include English, Reading/Language Arts, Mathematics, Sciences, Foreign Languages, Music and Art, and Social Studies (history, economics, geography, and civics and government).

In the 2012-2013 school years, 100 percent of the teachers at South Fayette Township School District met or exceeded the highly qualified criteria. Also, in the 2012-2013 school years, 100% of Title 1 and Special Education paraeducators have met the highly qualified criteria.

PARENTS’ RIGHT TO KNOW: As stipulated in the No Child Left Behind Act, parents/guardians may request information regarding the professional qualifications of their child’s classroom teacher(s). Specifically, individuals have the right to ask for the following information: • Whether the student’s teacher has met state qualifying and licensing criteria for the grade level or subject he/she is teaching; • Whether the teacher is teaching under emergency or other provisional status; • The teacher’s college major, the baccalaureate degree, and/or any advanced degrees earned by the teacher; • Whether the child is provided services by paraprofessionals and, if so, their qualifications.

To obtain this information, please submit your request in writing to Dr. Michael Loughead, Assistant Superintendent who oversees teacher/paraeducator certifications/qualifications. Each request should include the child’s name, his/her teachers’ names and the school he/she attends. Please be certain to include your name, address and a telephone number at which you can be contacted during the day.

South Fayette Township School District Attn: Dr. Michael Loughead, Assistant Superintendent 3680 Old Oakdale Road McDonald, PA 15057-3544 412.221.4542, Ex. 409

SOUTH FAYETTE TOWNSHIP SCHOOL DISTRICT’S ANNUAL CHILD FIND NOTICE AND STUDENT RECORDS NOTICE — AUGUST 2013 The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act of 1974 (FERPA - C.F.R. Part 99), was most recently amended January 8, 2008, state regulations (Chapter 14-Special Education Services and Programs, Chapter 12-Student Rights and Responsibilities) and district policy.

It is the intent of this Annual Notice and policy to inform both the parent(s)/guardian(s) and eligible children (i.e. students 18 and older) of their rights relevant to their privacy rights in the collection, maintenance, release and destruction of these records as required by the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA), 20 U.S.C. ‘1232g. 34 C.F.R. part 99 and the No Child Left Behind Act of 2001.

Annual notice of this policy is given on the District’s website, in the School Calendar, in building parent/ student handbooks and hard copies are available in the

main lobby of the administration building.

The different categories of information maintained by the school district are as follows; educational and health records, personally identifiable information and directory information. Information known as directory information can be released without consent. Parents may opt out of this by requesting in writing to the school principal that some or all directory information not be released. In addition, photographs and/or videos may be used in newspaper articles highlighting various school activities or television coverage of school events. If you do not wish your child to be photographed or videotaped for these purposes, you must inform the district in writing.

Education Records include records directly related to a student that are maintained by the South Fayette Township School District. The Educational Records of the District may include all of the following (this list is not intended to be exhaustive): grades, standardized test results, student evaluation reports, samples of student work, records transferred from sending schools, discipline records, medical records and any other records created and maintained by the school district directly related to the student. Educational records do not include communications with legal counsel that are attorney client privileged. Educational Records do not include records maintained solely by the creator for their personal use, not shared with others. The contents of a student’s educational file shall be determined by the District unless a specific parental request is made or a complaint is made, consistent with this Notice.

The District shall permit the parent/guardian(s) of a student or an eligible special education student, who is or has been in attendance in the District, to inspect and review the education records of the student upon written request. The District will comply with a written request to review records within a reasonable period of time (never to exceed 45 calendar days from the date of written request) after the request has been made.

When there are special cases and where necessary, a parental request to review records will be granted and arranged as soon as possible. Visits to review a student’s records shall be arranged and facilitated by the building principal or designee, or any party selected by the District, for the purposes of security and assistance in explaining or interpreting the data.

The right to inspect and review education records includes: 1. The right to a response from the District to reasonable requests, made in writing, for explanation and interpretations of the record; and 2. The right to obtain copies of records from the District where failure of the District to provide the copies would effectively prevent a parent or eligible student from exercising the right to inspect and review the educational records (e.g. where the parent lives too far to come review the records personally). A reasonable fee of .25 will be charged per page for duplicate copies of documents already provided to parents/guardians.

In accordance with FERPA, the District will not produce or compile documentation that does not already exist.

It is presumed by the District that both natural parent/guardian(s) of a student has authority to inspect and review the education records of the student at the school in the child’s attendance area (main office) by appointment unless there is evidence that there is a legally binding instrument, or a State law or court order governing such matters as divorce, separation or custody, which provides to the contrary. A District designee will sit with the parent when the parent reviews the records in a private conference area of the main office.

Under federal law, parental consent is not required for the release of Directory information, which is information contained in an education record of a student that would not generally be considered harmful or an invasion of privacy if disclosed.

The District designates the following as Directory Information means: information contained in an education record of a student that would not generally be considered harmful or an invasion of privacy if disclosed. (a) Directory information includes, but is not limited to, the student’s name; address; telephone listing; electronic mail address; photograph; date and place of birth; major field of study; grade level; enrollment status (e.g., undergraduate or graduate, full-time or part-time); dates of attendance; participation in officially recognized activities and sports; weight and height of members of athletic teams; degrees, honors and awards

received; and the most recent educational agency or institution attended. (b) Directory information does not include a student’s — (1) Social security number; or (2) Student identification (ID) number, except as provided in paragraph (c) of this section. (c) Directory information includes a student ID number, user ID, or other unique personal identifier used by the student for purposes of accessing or communicating in electronic systems, but only if the identifier cannot be used to gain access to education records except when used in conjunction with one or more factors that authenticate the user’s identity, such as a personal identification number (PIN), password, or other factor known or possessed only by the authorized user.

A written record of this information, or microfilm copy of the same, including grade level completed and year completed, may be maintained at least 100 years after a student attains age 21. A parent/guardian or eligible student may notify the District in writing of their refusal to allow the District to release directory information without prior consent. Such written refusal for consent must be sent to Director of Pupil Personnel, Dr. Nanci A. Sullivan, South Fayette Township School District, 3660 Old Oakdale Road, McDonald, PA 150573544.

Pursuant to Section 9528 of the No Child Left Behind Act, the District is required to release student directory information (access to names, addresses, and phone numbers of high school juniors and seniors) to military recruiters and college admissions officers.

The No Child Left Behind law requires high schools to release information to colleges or other higher learning institutions upon request. Any parent/guardian or student who has reached age eighteen may notify the District in writing of their refusal for this information to be released. Letters seeking the withholding of information to military recruiters should be sent to: Dr. Nanci A. Sullivan, Director of Pupil Personnel, South Fayette Township School District, 3660 Old Oakdale Road, McDonald, PA 15057-3544.

Per federal guidance, student medical records, maintained by the nurses’ office, are considered educational records and will be shared with staff who the district determines have a legitimate educational interest in the information and a need to know medical information to protect the safety and health of the student. Once provided to the District, specific parental consent will not be sought to share information on a need to know basis. Parental requests to maintain the confidentiality of specific medical information must be made in writing to the nurse’s office. Requests for complete confidentiality of medical information will be granted at the discretion of the nurse. These requests will be granted unless dangerous to the student.

If the agency reported a crime committed by a student with a disability the district will ensure that copies of the special education records and disciplinary records of the student will be transmitted properly and only to the extent possible that the transmission is permitted by the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act. The District can communicate about sex offenders from agency to agency.

The District shall obtain the written consent of the parent(s)/guardian(s) of a student age eighteen before disclosing personally identifiable information, other than directory information, from the education records of a student to a third party. Consent is not required where the disclosure is to the parent/guardian(s) of a student who is not an eligible student or the student himself or herself.

PERSONALLY IDENTIFIABLE INFORMATION The term includes, but is not limited to — (a) The student’s name; (b) The name of the student’s parent or other family members; (c) The address of the student or student’s family; (d) A personal identifier, such as the student’s social security number, student number, or biometric record; (e) Other indirect identifiers, such as the student’s date of birth, place of birth, and mother’s maiden name; (f) Other information that, alone or in combination, is linked or linkable to a specific student that would allow a reasonable person in the school community, who does not have personal knowledge of the relevant circumstances, to identify the student with reasonable

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HIGHLY QUALIFIED TEACHERS: All public school teachers with primary responsibility for direct instruction in one or more of NCLB’s core content areas are required to demonstrate that they satisfy the definition of a “Highly Qualified Teacher.” This requirement includes: • Elementary level (grades K-6) teachers who teach all subjects to a particular grade; • Middle- and secondary-level (grades 7-12) core content area teachers; • Special education teachers who provide direct instruction in one or more core content areas; English as a second language (ESL) teachers who provide direct instruction in one or more core content areas; and • Alternative education teachers who provide direct instruction in one or more core content areas.

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South Fayette Township School District Required Annual Notices

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certainty; or (g) Information requested by a person who the educational agency or institution reasonably believes knows the identity of the student to whom the education record relates.

USES OF PERSONALLY IDENTIFIABLE INFORMATION: The district may disclose personally identifiable from the education records of a student without written consent of the parent/guardian(s) or the student or the eligible student in several situations. See 34 C.F.R. Part 99. Some important examples of when no consent to release information include (list not exhaustive): 1. To other school officials, including teachers, guidance counselors, nurses, and I.U. personnel within the District who have been determined by the District to have legitimate educational interests or are providing instruction or services to students. The District has determined that all school employees involved in the direct supervision of a student (academic or nonacademic) (including support staff) have a legitimate education interest in academic and health related student information if the information is necessary to ensure appropriate fulfillment of their professional duties and to ensure the health and safety of the student.

2. To officials of another school or school system or post-secondary schools in which the student seeks or intends to enroll, subject to the requirements set forth in 99.34. Parents may request a copy of the record sent.

3. To appropriate parties in a health or safety emergency, subject to the conditions set and 99.36, if knowledge of the information is necessary to protect the health or safety of the student or other individuals.

4. Information designated by the District as Directory Information.

5. Generally, schools must have written permission from the parent/guardian or eligible student in order to release any information from a student’s education record. However, FERPA allows schools to disclose those records, without consent, to the following parties or under the following conditions (34 CFR § 99.31): • Specified officials for audit and evaluation purposes • Appropriate parties in connection with financial aid to a student • Organizations conducting studies for or on behalf of the school • Accrediting organizations • To comply with a judicial order or lawfully issued subpoena • State and local authorities, within the juvenile justice system, pursuant to specific state law • Contracted, consultant, volunteer, or other party to whom an agency or institution has outsourced institutional services or functions may be considered a school official under this paragraph--(1) Performs an institutional service or function for which the agency or institution would otherwise use employees; (2) Is under the direct control of the agency or institution with respect to the use and maintenance of education records; and (3) Is subject to the requirements of §99.33 (a) governing the use and redisclosure of personally identifiable information from education records. (ii) An educational agency or institution must use reasonable methods to ensure that school officials obtain access to only those education records in which they have legitimate educational interests.

An educational agency or institution that does not use physical or technological access controls must ensure that its administrative policy for controlling access to education records is effective and that it remains in compliance with the legitimate educational interest requirement.

When providing records to authorized third parties, the District will make a reasonable attempt to notify the parent/guardian(s) of the student or the eligible student of the transfer of the records at the last known address of the parent(s)/guardian(s) or eligible student. Per state law, the District will not provide any notice of transfer of records of a student to a school in which a student seeks or intends to enroll.

The District maintains student records in a locked storage room located at South Fayette High School.

This storage room contains special education student records, gifted education student records, student health records, 504 Student Service Plan records, etc. Current original special education records with psychological records are maintained in the Department of Pupil Personnel. All district records of students (K-12) who were evaluated by the school psychologist(s) and found not to be non-exceptional are kept and are secured in the school(s)’offices. All records are kept in a secure location and access to files is limited.

PLEASE NOTE: SOUTH FAYETTE TOWNSHIP SCHOOL BOARD POLICY 216 PROVIDES RESIDENT STUDENTS AND THEIR PARENTS WITH NOTICE THAT THE DISTRICT MAY DESTROY RECORDS UNDER THE FOLLOWING CIRCUMSTANCES AND TIMELINES: a. Records that include a student’s name, address, grades, attendance records, classes attended, grade

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level completed and year completed may be destroyed once 100 years have passed since the student’s 24th birthday. b. Special Education records, Section 504 records, Instructional Support Team (IST) records, and health records may be destroyed once 10 years have passed from the date a student has graduated or reached graduation age (if exiting the district before graduation) as long as there is no outstanding request to inspect and review the records and the records are no longer deemed useful to the school district. c. Notice of destruction of these records is provided annually via this publication. Educational records of a student are longer needed by the District to provide educational services at the end of one year following a student’s graduation from the District. A parent/guardian may submit a written request for the destruction of all education records at that time. d. Destruction will proceed where parents or eligible students have not requested copies by November 1st of the year the records may be destroyed as per paragraphs A&B above. Parents or students over eighteen have the right to request a copy of their record before destruction.

Parents are reminded that copies of the records might be needed for the acquisition of Social Security benefits or for other purposes.

AMENDMENT OF EDUCATION RECORDS A Parent/guardian or eligible student has the right to request amendment of a student’s educational file if it is believed that any information is inaccurate, or in violation of a student’s rights. The educational agency shall decide within a reasonable time whether to amend the record. If the school district decides not to amend the educational record it shall notify the parent/student of the right to and arrange an informal hearing. The hearing will be conducted by an official of the District without an interest in the outcome, who will be either the Assistant Superintendent of Curriculum, Instruction and Assessment or their designee. The parent may present relevant evidence. The District will issue a written decision based on the hearing.

Informal inquiries may be sent to: ferpa@ed.gov or ppra@ed.gov. The website address is: www.ed.gov/policy/gen/guide/fpcd Complaints regarding violation of rights accorded parent(s)/guardian(s) and eligible students with respect to student records are to be submitted to Director of Pupil Personnel, South Fayette Township School District, at 3660 Old Oakdale Road, McDonald, PA, 15057-3544, in writing. All Complaints will be investigated and responded to in writing within a reasonable period of time. If complaints cannot be satisfactorily resolved by the District, complaints can be filed with the following Family Policy Compliance Office U.S. Department of Education 400 Maryland Avenue, SW Washington, D.C. 20202-4605 Questions regarding the above information or requests for a copy of the records policy may be referred to: Dr. Nanci A. Sullivan, Director of Pupil Personnel, South Fayette Township School District, 3660 Old Oakdale Road, McDonald, PA 15057-3544.

SCREENING AND EVALUATION The South Fayette Township School District employs the following procedures for locating, identifying and evaluating the needs of school age students who may require special education programs and/or services.

These procedures, as required by state regulation, are as follows: As prescribed by Section 1402 of the Pennsylvania school code, the district routinely conducts health screenings for kindergarten (K) through 12th grade students and new students without history of recent exams: Vision (Gr. K-12); Hearing (Gr. K, 3, 7 and 11 and any student with a known history of hearing loss); Mandated Physical Exams (Gr. K, 6, and 11); Dental Screenings (Gr. K, 1, 3, and 7); Scoliosis Screening (Gr. 6, 7) and Body Mass Index (BMI) screening (Gr. K-12).

Speech and language skills are screened in kindergarten and on a referral basis by speech clinicians.

Gross-motor and fine-motor skills, academic and social-emotional skills are assessed by the teachers and support staff. Screening activities include: review of group-based data such as cumulative enrollment and health records, report cards and academic skills scores.

Identified needs from these screening sources, as well as information obtained from parents and outside agencies, is assessed, noted within the student’s record and discussed with parents.

South Fayette Township School District has intervention/prevention teams in place to support students as a pre-referral system. At the elementary school (K-4), a child study team has been established as part of the pre-referral intervention process. The team consists of principals, guidance counselor, regular education teachers, reading specialists, school psychologist when needed and special education staff

when needed. Parents are also part of this process and are contacted and strongly encouraged to participate in all phases of the child study team process. The Child Study Team assists teachers and parents with supporting students who are experiencing academic, behavioral, medical, emotional and social skills difficulties.

In the middle school the Academic Intervention Model (AIM) is utilized as the pre-referral intervention process for students who are in need of academic assistance. The AIM process is a team based intervention model. There are collaborative intervention teams meetings with the parents to identify targeted interventions related to specific academic skill areas that need to be addressed for the student. Research based intervention strategies are implemented for a period of time in the regular classroom setting to assist the student in an attempt to foster academic success.

An implementation plan is developed and monitored by the student’s team of teachers and reviewed and revised if necessary. If it is determined by the team that the interventions are not working and the student is not meeting success, the student may be referred for a multi-disciplinary team evaluation.

The South Fayette Student Assistance Team (SAP) is an additional support used by the district to identify at-risk students. SAP teams are currently in place at the middle and high school levels. SAP is a cooperative effort with parents in utilizing the support staff, students, and community through contracted services with FamilyLinks and Turtle Creek. It is a proactive prevention/intervention program that attempts to provide intervention before school performance is seriously compromised. The SAP Core Team of individuals are trained in the SAP Model and focus on screening/ intervention for student who may be experiencing drug and alcohol, depression, and/or family issues, referrals to appropriate agencies or treatment facilities, aftercare for those returning from treatment, and crisis intervention as needed.

If appropriate, a referral process is initiated at each building level through the Child Study Team, Instructional Support Team, and Student Assistance Teams (SAP), guidance departments, principals or the Department of Pupil Personnel Services. Assessment data is used by the team to meet the student’s specific needs by recommending modifications or adaptations to the regular education program, creating interventions to address the problem and monitoring the student’s response to intervention, or to document the need for further evaluation.

If it is determined that a student is in need of further evaluation, the student is referred for a multidisciplinary team (MDT) evaluation, which requires parent permission and includes parent input. Next, a “Permission-to-Evaluate Consent Form” is issued to the parent to sign giving the school district permission to conduct the evaluation. The school district has 60 calendar days to complete the evaluation. After the evaluation is completed, an evaluation report is prepared which includes specific recommendations for the types of intervention necessary to meet the needs of the student and to determine the child’s eligibility for special education services based upon a disability.

When the evaluation report is completed parents are invited if necessary to a multidisciplinary team meeting to review findings and plan for the student’s needs. After the MDT evaluation is completed, the parents are given a NOREP, which they sign to indicate their agreement or disagreement with the recommendation.

Parents of students who suspect that their child has a disability and is in need of special education may request an Intervention Team meeting or multidisciplinary team evaluation of their child through a written request to the building principal or Director of Pupil Personnel.

You may find information regarding the appropriate developmental milestone descriptors for infants and toddlers at the Center for Disease Control (CDC) website: http://www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/autism/ActEarly/ default.htm For additional information regarding the signs of developmental delays, please contact Dr. Nanci A. Sullivan, Director of Pupil Personnel at 412.221.4542, Ext. 429, Mrs. Gretchen Tucci, School Psychologist at 412.221.4542, Ext. 415 or Mrs. Conchetta Bell, School Psychologist/Transition/504 Plan Coordinator at 412.221.4542, Ext. 404.

SERVICES FOR SCHOOL AGE STUDENTS WITH DISABILITIES OR MENTAL GIFTEDNESS The South Fayette Township School District provides a free, appropriate public education to students with disabilities or mental giftedness according to state and federal rules. To be eligible, the child must: ■ Be of school age.

■ Have a disability or mental giftedness and be in need of specially designed instruction.

■ Meet eligibility criteria for one or more of the following physical or mental disabilities as set forth in the Pennsylvania State Standards: autism, deaf-

SERVICES FOR PROTECTED HANDICAPPED STUDENTS The school district will provide to each protected handicapped student without discrimination or cost to the student or family those related aids, services or accommodations which are needed to provide equal opportunity to participate in and obtain the benefits of school programs and extracurricular activities to the extent appropriate to the student’s abilities. To qualify as a protected handicapped student, the child must be of school age with a physical or mental handicap which substantially limits or prohibits participation in or access to an aspect of the school program.

Services for protected handicapped students are distinct from those applicable to disabled students enrolled in special education programs. Protected handicapped students fall under Pennsylvania’s Chapter 15, sometimes known by its federal name, Section 504 (of the 1973 Rehabilitation Act). In contrast, students with disabilities who qualify for special education services are covered by regulations contained in Pennsylvania’s Chapter 14. While both Chapter 14 and 15 provide services to students, there are technical differences between the two. Additional information about evaluation procedures and provision of services to protected handicapped students is available by contacting the building principal.

CONFIDENTIALITY OF STUDENT RECORDS The privacy rights of parents and students are mandated by federal legislation known as the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act of 1974 (FERPA C.F.R. Part 99), most recently amended in November 1996, state regulations (Chapter 14-Special Education Services and Programs, Chapter 12-Student Rights and Responsibilities) and district policy.

SOUTH FAYETTE SCHOOL DISTRICT PUBLIC NOTICE ON SURROGATE PARENTS FOR STUDENTS WITH SPECIAL NEEDS — JUNE 2011 SURROGATE PARENT PROGRAM Federal law establishes the right of a free and appropriate public education for all children with disabilities. To ensure that this right is realized for all such children, procedures are written into the laws to ensure that children with disabilities who are wards of the state, or whose parents are unknown, unavailable, or have had their parental rights legally terminated, have appropriate representation when educational programming decisions are made. This is provided through the recruitment, training and assignment of volunteer surrogate parents who represent the child during the educational process. In Pennsylvania, Intermediate Units have been given the responsibility of recruiting, training and assigning parents to children meeting the qualifications listed. The South Fayette School District works with the Allegheny Intermediate Unit #3 in providing this service.

IDENTIFICATION OF CHILDREN ELIGIBLE FOR SURROGATE PARENTS Special needs preschool and school-aged children receiving a free and appropriate education in a public school or an approved private school, who meet one of the following criteria, are eligible for the assignment of a qualified surrogate parent: 1. The Child is a ward of the state, or 2. The child’s parent(s) or guardian(s) are unknown or unavailable.

To be identified as being in need of a surrogate parent, the preschooler or school-aged child must have special needs, or be thought to have special needs, and be in need of special education services in the South Fayette School District or IU operated program or be enrolled in an approved private/private school.

QUALIFICATION FOR SURROGATE PARENTS Surrogate parents must meet the following qualifications: • Be of a person of good character, • Be at least 18 years of age, • Possess reasonable abilities to make decisions regarding a child’s educational needs, • Be willing to acquaint themselves with the child’s educational needs and with the special education system in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, • Have no vested interest that would conflict with the primary allegiance to the child they are representing.

The surrogate parent should not be an employee of the agency responsible for the care of the child, • Foster parents may be considered if they meet all other qualifications, • Have Act 33 and Act 34 clearances from the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, • Be willing to complete a training program conducted by the Allegheny Intermediate Unit.

RESPONSIBILITIES OF THE SURROGATE PARENT The surrogate parent is expected to act in place of a parent for the student concerning his or her educational program. This involves: • Attending a planning conference to develop an individualized educational program, • Being familiar with appropriate procedures for due process and confidentiality of school records, • Receiving and responding to requests and notices concerning the evaluation and/or educational placement of the assigned student, • Making self-familiar with the unique educational needs of the assigned student.

The surrogate parent takes on certain quasi-legal responsibilities in order to serve the best interests of the child. The primary function is to represent the student in those circumstances in which decisions need to be made concerning the student’s educational program or placement.

It is necessary for the surrogate parent to receive considerable training to familiarize him or herself with all aspects of the surrogate parent role. The demands of the role may be extensive and require the volunteer to make a significant commitment of time and learning in order to serve the best interest of the child.

If you are interested in being a surrogate parent for a child/youth with disabilities, please contact one of the following individuals at South Fayette School District: ENGLISH AS A SECOND LANGUAGE SERVICES (ESL) In accordance with federal law and state regulations, the South Fayette School District must identify all students who have “limited English proficiency” (LEP). These students typically have a primary language other than English that is used in their homes. Students identified with a limited English proficiency are eligible for ESL instructional services to help them attain proficient skills in their use of the written and spoken English language.

All students must have a Home Language Survey completed by their parents prior to admission into the school district. This survey allows the South Fayette School District to identify possible LEP students.

Our ESL teacher, Mrs. Marcia Fink, will screen any student identified as possibly having a limited English proficiency and will provide direct services to students based on their level of need.

Parents or guardians who feel that their child may have a limited English proficiency should contact Dr. Nanci Sullivan, Director of Pupil Personnel, at 412.221.4542 (Ext. 429) OR Mrs. Gretchen Tucci, ESL Coordinator at 412.221.4542 (Ext. 415) for more information.

TITLE I PERFORMANCE REPORT South Fayette Elementary School receives Title I funds annually. The funding is used to provide the Title I Reading Services to first grade students who are below basic or basic in their reading skills.

In the 2012-2013 school year, 100% of the South Fayette Elementary Faculty met the No Child Left Behind Standards for highly qualified teachers. A highly qualified teacher, according to the United States Department of Education, is fully certified, has a bachelor’s degree, a content area major and has passed a content area test. In addition, fully certified teachers in Pennsylvania have completed pedagogical course work in education, including student teaching. We take pride in the tremendous skill and dedication of our faculty and staff.

Please note that, as parents, you have a right to request and receive timely information regarding the professional qualifications of your child’s classroom teacher. If you have any questions about our Title I Program or about your child’s teacher, please feel free to contact Mrs. Laurie Gray, Elementary Primary Principal, at 412.221.4542, extension 612.

School Board Policy #918, Title I Parental Involvement, can be found in the back of the Handbook.

DEPARTMENT OF PUPIL PERSONNEL: PUPIL SUPPORT SERVICES AND SPECIAL EDUCATION DEPARTMENT: 412.221.4542 Nanci A. Sullivan, Ed.D. Director of Pupil Personnel Extension 429 sullivan@southfayette.org Gretchen Tucci, M.S. Ed. Assistant Director of Pupil Personnel/School Psychologist Extension 415 gtucci@southfayette.org Conchetta Bell, M.S. Ed. School Psychologist/Transition and 504 Plan Services Coordinator Extension 404 cbell@southfayette.org Celeste Whaley Administrative Assistant Department of Pupil Personnel Extension 428 cwhaley@southfayette.org Tara Rao ACCESS Coordinator/Administrative Assistant Department of Pupil Personnel Extension 403 trao@southfayette.org

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SERVICES FOR STUDENTS IN NONPUBLIC SCHOOLS Public school education may be accessible to resident students attending nonpublic schools on a dual enrollment basis in a special education program operated in a public school. A multidisciplinary evaluation which determines the child’s eligibility for services must be conducted and, if eligible, an individualized education program plan (IEP) is developed. Parents of nonpublic school students who suspect that their child is disabled and in need of special education may request a multidisciplinary evaluation of their child through a written request to the building principal or Director of Pupil Services.

SERVICES FOR PRESCHOOL AGE CHILDREN Act 212, the Early Intervention Systems Act, entitles all preschool age children with disabilities to appropriate intervention services. Young children experiencing developmental delay or physical or mental disabilities are eligible for early intervention services if it is determined that they meet eligibility requirements.

The Pennsylvania Department of Public Welfare is responsible for providing services to infants and toddlers, defined as children from birth to three year of age. Contact the Early Learning Institute, 2510 Baldwick Road, Pittsburgh, PA, 15205-4104, 412.922.8322.

The Pennsylvania Department of Education is responsible for providing services to preschool age children from ages three through five. Contact the Allegheny Intermediate Unit, Project DART, 425 East Waterfront Drive, Homestead, PA 15120, 412.394.5941.

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blindness, blindness, visual impairment, emotional disturbance, specific learning disability, other health impairment, traumatic brain injury, and speech/language impairment, orthopedic impairment, hearing impairment, deafness, multiple disabilities or mental retardation.

Services designed to meet the needs of eligible disabled students include: ■ The annual development of an individualized education program (IEP or Gifted IEP).

■ A triennial multidisciplinary re-evaluation for students with disabilities (except for those students with mental retardation where evaluation remains biennial).

■ A range of supports for students from itinerant level to supplemental level to full time level special education support within the school district or placement in a full-time special education disabilities class outside of the regular school.

The extent of special education services for disabled or mentally gifted students and the location for the delivery of such services are determined by the parents and the district staff at the IEP team meeting and are based on the student’s identified needs and abilities, chronological age and the level of intensity of the specified intervention. The school district also provides related services, such as transportation, physical therapy, occupational therapy and assistive technology if they are required to enable the student with disabilities to derive educational benefits. a) Prior to initiation of services, parents of a student with disabilities are presented a “Notice of Recommended Educational Placement/Prior Written Notice” (NOREP) and parents of a mentally gifted student with a “Notice of Recommended Assignment” (NORA) with which they agree or disagree. If parents agree to the program outlined by the multidisciplinary team and the parent signs either the NOREP or NORA, then the program is implemented for their child. If parents disagree with the program being recommended, they have the right to request IEP facilitation, mediation and/or a due process hearing. Parents are issued their “Procedural Safeguards” which outlines in detail their legal rights as a parent of a child identified as having a disability or considered mental gifted. Lastly, if a child proves to have a disability or handicapping condition under PA Chapter 15 and the American Disabilities Act and it is determined the child is entitled to services and accommodations that are necessary to enable them access and safety when participating in programs and activities of the school, then a 504 Student Services Plan is outlined between the parent, district LEA and district staff. Parents are also given “Procedural Safeguards” for Chapter 15 504 Student Services Plans which outlines their rights as a parent of a student who has a disability and requires accommodations.

Detailed information regarding Chapter 14 special education, Chapter 16 gifted education and Chapter 15 504 Service Plan/Agreement procedures and services may be obtained by calling the Pupil Personnel Department at South Fayette Township School Schools, .412.221.4542, extensions 428, 415 or 429.

Summer is now behind us and the winter season is right around the corner. One may think that winter maintenance is seasonal activity, however Winter Operations is a “YEAR-ROUND-ACTIVITY” The South Fayette Township Public Works Department would like to take a few minutes to share with our residents and the travelling public our Winter Maintenance Program.

WHY IS WINTER OPERATIONS A YEAR ROUND ACTIVITY? Winter Operations is divided into the four seasons: Spring, Summer, Fall, and of course Winter. Each season requires different task to be completed in order for a positive and successful “Winter Operations”

SO U TH FAYE T TE TOWN SH I P NE WS

South Fayette

SPRING ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■

Post Winter Meeting Solicit Public Feedback Organize Winter Data Spring Cleanup Conduct Road Field Inspections Develop Comprehensive Snow Plan Plan of Action

SUMMER ■ ■

■

■

■ ■

Start to Implement Action Plan Plan Drainage Work to Eliminate Ice Problems Complete Equipment & Material Storage Building Repairs Complete Obstruction Removal (Iower man holes) Remedy Action-prone Areas Prepare Bids & Specifications for Equipment and Materials

FALL (EARLY) ■ ■ ■

Place 1st Order for Salt & Anti-skid Materials Finalize Snow Agreement with Neighbors Update Snow Map

FALL (LATE) ■ ■ ■

■ ■

Inspect, Prepare & Calibrate Winter Equipment Conduct Winter Training for the Employees Conduct Discussions with Union on any New Procedures Meet with School District Officials Conduct Dry Runs of all Snow Routes

WINTER ■ ■ ■ ■

Be prepared for the first Storm!

Conduct Operational Review during the Storm Review Operations after the Storm Complete & Review all Winter Documentation • CDL Checklist • CDL Requirements • Run Sheets

As you can see Winter Maintenance Operations is truly a year round operation. I would now like to review some common resident questions in regards to Public Works.

38 South Fayette

South Fayette Public Works falls under the

TOWN leadership of the Township Manager. The SHIP department is divided into three areas. First the team consisting of a Director and MAN management two Foreman. Second, the Union Work Force AGER consisting of 3 Heavy Equipment Operators,

2 full-time mechanics, 6 Laborer/Truck Drivers and the Parks Maintenance consisting of 2 Laborer/Truck Drivers.

During winter operations the department operates 14 trucks.

Depending on the time, duration and intensity of the storm, the department will have anywhere from 3 to 16 employees conducting winter maintenance operations.

The department’s budget consists of two parts: Operation - $1,535,957.00 Liquid Fuels (SALT) - $156,500.00 The department is on call 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.

How and who determines when winter operations are needed?

The South Fayette Township Police Department has officers who are on duty 24 hours a day — 7 days a week. The on duty police supervisor will determine when conditions warrant the necessity for winter maintenance operations. Once it is determined that conditions warrant winter operations the police supervisor notifies the Director of Public Works. The Public Works Director will then determine the number of employees to be called in to handle the storm emergency. Many factors are taken into consideration when making this determination.

A few examples are: • Type of storm: wet snow, fluffy snow, ice?

• Day of week: is it a work day? A Weekend? A holiday? A school day?

• Hour of day: Is it before morning or evening rush hour? Is it in the middle of the night?

• What is the expected severity of the storm: Quantity of snow expected? Duration expected? Make up of the storm?

• Availability of resources!

• Union Contract requirements.

• Budgetary limitations.

Now how do winter operations work?

South Fayette Township is divided into 13 routes. Each of these routes is subdivided into primary and secondary routes.

Once notified of a storm emergency the Public Works Director or Foreman will determine and notify the required manpower. He will then distribute the required routes to the available resources. All available manpower will start procedures to clear and treat their assigned primary routes. After all primary routes are completed and passable,

What is the difference between a Primary and a Secondary Route?

Primary Routes are: • The main primary roadways in the township • All school bus routes • Roads required for emergency vehicle access • Any road or street leading to a health care facility • Primary entrance roadways leading from a development

Secondary Routes are: • Side streets and cul-de-sacs in residential developments • Sparsely populated residential streets • Less travelled country roads South Fayette Township Public Works regards all roads in the township equally important; however, it serves no purpose if you can get out of your street but cannot proceed any further!

Residents can be assured that all public roadways will be treated in the safest, fastest, and most efficient manner possible.

Who does what?

South Fayette Township has roadways owned by three separate political entities: State Roads, County Roads, and Township Roads.

State Owned Roadways Maintained by Penn DOT • St. Rt. 50 from the intersection of Washington Pike to the Cecil Twp/Washington County Line Continued on page 40 South Fayette | Winter 2013 | icmags.com 39

SOU TH FAYE T TE TOW N SHI P N E WS

they will proceed to their secondary routes. All drivers will notify the PW Director at the completion of their assigned routes. These drivers will then be dispatched to other routes that have not yet been completed. Primary Routes may require the necessity of several trips before secondary routes may be started.

South Fayette

What is South Fayette Township Public Works?

How is it organized?

What is the size of its Operational Budget?

What is the size of its Salt Budget?

Continued from page 39 • Washington Pike from Bridgeville to the Cecil Twp/ Washington County Line • Boyce Road from Washington Pike to the Upper St. Clair Twp. Line • Mayview Road from the Upper St. Clair line to the Cecil Twp Line • Rt. 978 Union Ave. Ext. (Oakdale Hill) from the top of Rt. 978 (Battle Ridge Road) to the Oakdale Boro/ Washington County Line • Robinson Run Road from the intersection of Rt. 978 (Battle Ridge Road) to McDonald Boro/ Washington county Line • Presto-Sygan Road from the intersection with Millers Run Road to the intersection with Thom’s Run Road.

State Owned Roads maintained by South Fayette Township Public Works • Oakridge Road from the intersection of Presto-Sygan and Oakridge Road to the intersection of Oakridge Road and Battle Ridge Road • Millers Run Road (East) from the intersection of Millers Run Road and Rt. 50 to the intersection of Millers Run Road and R.t 978 (Battle Ridge Road) • Millers Run Road (West) Gladden Area from the intersection of Millers Run Road and Rt. 978 to the Cecil Twp/Washington County Line

SO U TH FAYE T TE TOWN SH I P NE WS

South Fayette

County Owned Road Maintained by Allegheny County • Thom’s Run Road from Federal Hill to the intersection of Dutch Hill Road.

Township Roads owned and maintained by South Fayette Township Public Works • All township owned streets, alleys, and roads.

If there is any question as to who maintains the street or road that you reside near please contact the township or public works office.

What are we doing to reduce cost and increase productivity and safety?

The most efficient method of reducing winter maintenance cost is to the amount of materials (SALT) that is used and to also reduce the man hour time spent applying the salt without jeopardizing the safety of our residents and the travelling public. South Fayette Township Public Works, through the use

of new and effective technology, was able to achieve this result in a cost effective means. We are continuing to add wetting systems for our fleet of snow fighting equipment. These units spray the salt with salt brine while it is being dispensed onto the roadway. The salt brine reduces the amount of splatter of the salt thus keeping more of the product on the area where it is needed. The salt brine also increases the melting time of the salt thus quickening the time it takes to melt the snow and ice. The department plans on adding additional wetting systems to our fleet as the budget permits.

Another area that the department is focusing on is being proactive to the winter storms rather than being reactive.

This can be accomplished by applying the salt brine to the roadways prior to the winter storm, also known as anti-icing.

The Public Works Department has added two units to our fleet for pretreating.

Anti-icing has several advantages: • It gives us the ability to apply the brine during better conditions (before the storm) • Snow & Ice can be removed easier and quicker after the brine is applied • Making the roads safer in the shortest amount of time • This can reduce chemical use by 50-80% • It can be applied during normal work hours thus reducing overtime cost South Fayette Township Public Works has over 65 miles of roads and 15 miles of assigned state highways to maintain.

There are several ways that you, the resident can help to make our job quicker, safer, and more cost efficient.

• Vehicle Parking: If at all possible, park off the road in your driveway. In the case of those with steep driveways or multiple vehicles, park at the mouth of the driveway, off of the road.

The more of the driveway surface that is protected, the less shoveling will have to be done. Cul-de-sacs are difficult to plow with no vehicles parked in them, it is next to impossible to plow when vehicles are parked in them. Please park all vehicles in driveways and not in cul-de-sacs. Many cul-de-sacs have storm drains installed in them and this is where we try to put the snow so that when it melts it will go directly into the storm sewer system. We cannot do this if vehicles are parked over the storm inlets.

• Mail Boxes: Please check the overall condition and position of your mailbox.

Mailboxes are not permitted to extend over the edge of the road. The township is not required to replace your mailbox erected in the township right of way.

We will NOT replace any mailbox that is damaged due to flying snow and ice.

Samuel K. Tranter, Director of Public Works, South Fayette Township 515 Millers Run Road, Morgan, PA 15064 • 412.221.8700 x23 • stranter@sftwp.com 40 South Fayette

SOU TH FAYE T TE TOW N SHI P N E WS

South Fayette

We often receive complaints about plowing driveways closed after a resident has spent hours shoveling it open. Following these three suggestions for shoveling your driveway will help prevent negative feelings later.

1 2

Wait until all plowing operations have ceased before shoveling your driveway.

When shoveling, open the mouth of your driveway, shovel 6’ out into the shoulder of the roadway, and 10’ in front of your driveway. This will allow the snow plow to unload any snow it is pushing before crossing in front of your driveway.

3

When shoveling your driveway leave at least 6’ un-shoveled until the plowing

Pile Snow Here

DRIVEWAY

Clear this area to allow plow to unload before driveway

SHOULDER

operations have ended. This will permit the snow being pushed to remain on the plow and not be dumped into the freshly shoveled driveway.

4

Above all, please be patient. If you do have a problem, do not hesitate to call the township office at 412.221.8700 between the hours of 8 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. weekdays. Leave your name, number, address, phone number and nature of your problem. Calls received after 4:30 p.m.

may not be acted upon until the next day.

Any emergencies should be reported to the Police Department by dialing 911. If you have any questions or concerns, please call the Public Works office at 412.221.8700 x23 or email us at stranter@sftwp.com.

South Fayette | Winter 2013 | icmags.com 41

yoga ADULT

CLASS

When: Tuesdays & Thursdays Time: 7 p.m. – 8 p.m.

Place: South Fayette Middle School Auditorium Price: $50.00 for 5 weeks (once a week)

SO U TH FAYE T TE TOWN SH I P NE WS

South Fayette

Join Heather Black for a dynamic yoga flow for all levels. Beginners welcome.

Classes are designed for all ages and levels of ability. Let yoga help with weight loss and improving your overall well-being.

You will need a yoga mat. Fill out this form and bring payment made out to South Fayette Township to the first class.

For more information contact Heather Black 412.319.7441.

Name___________________________________________________________________ Address_________________________________________________________________ City_______________________________________ State________ Zip_____________ Signature________________________________ Phone (_______)__________________ No refunds after start of the program.

42 South Fayette

AXIS 360 E-BOOKS Get high-demand e-Books and e-Audio without the wait with our new service—Axis 360. Resident library cardholders can download bestsellers, children’s and young adult e-Books. Check out our Magic Wall at southfayettelibrary.org .

INDIEFLIX Discover great independent films anytime, anywhere with IndieFlix! With a valid library card, stream award-winning shorts, features and documentaries from more than 50 countries on all Internet-enabled computers and tablets (including iPad & Android) as well as smartphones and gaming consoles through your Web browser. Also available on Roku and Xbox. Visit the Library’s website, and click on the Virtual Library Services tab or call 412.257.8660 for more information.

Winter Events 2013 - 2014 WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 19 6-7:30 p.m. Meet the Grinch. For the whole family. Kids of all ages can put on their p.j.’s, bring their favorite pillows and blankets, & join us for a reading of Dr. Seuss’s enduring tale. Afterwards, the whole family can watch the classic video while enjoying holiday refreshments.

Registration is required. Space is limited. To register, click on Calendar of Events at southfayettelibrary.org or call 412.257.8660.

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 21 1-3 p.m. Holiday Crafts Galore. For Ages 3-10. Lots of great holiday crafts, including some edible creations! Registration is required, and space is limited. Registration is required. Space is limited. To register, click on Calendar of Events at southfayettelibrary. org or call 412.257.8660.

MONDAY EVENINGS Chess Club. 5:30-6:30 p.m. Beginners. 6:457:45 Intermediate Players. Two 6-week sessions run from January 6-May 1. (The library is closed on January 20 and February

17.) For children in grades K-8. Players enjoy

half-an-hour of play and half-an-hour of strategy instruction. Participants must attend at least 4 Monday evening sessions to be eligible for the Saturday tournaments.

Tournaments are Saturdays, March 1, April 12 & May 24 from 1-3 p.m. Trophies are awarded for 1st and 2nd place winners in the junior and senior categories. Registration is required for all sessions. Space is limited.

To register, click on Calendar of Events at southfayettelibrary.org or call 412.257.8660.

EVERY 4TH MONDAY EVENING 6:30-7:30 p.m. Adult Book Club. Book club members have a lively discussion and suggest their favorite books for upcoming sessions. Registration is requested, but not required. Go to southfayettelibrary.org or call 412.257.8660 to register or request books.

TUESDAY & WEDNESDAY MORNINGS 10:30-11 a.m. Mother Goose Story Time. An entertaining program for little ones from birth-3 years and their caregivers. Children interact through songs, finger plays and flannel board stories. This program gently develops awareness of letters, print and images. Motor and social skills are also enhanced. What a fun way to include reading readiness into a child’s schedule! No registration is required.

Continued on page 44

South Fayette | Winter 2013 | icmags.com 43

SOU TH FAYE T TE TOW N SHI P N E WS

Library

South Fayette

South Fayette Township

515 Millers Run Rd. / P.O. Box 436 , Morgan, PA 15064 412.257.8660 • www.southfayettelibrary.org HOURS: Monday – Thursday: 10 a.m. – 8 p.m.

Friday – Saturday: 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. • Sunday: CLOSED

SO U TH FAYE T TE TOWN SH I P NE WS

South Fayette

Continued from page 43 EVERY 3RD TUESDAY 12-1 p.m. PALS Book Club. Bring a brown bag lunch and join PALS members for a spirited book discussion. Book selections are popular titles recommended by club members and Barnes & Noble Booksellers.

This program is co-sponsored by the Allegheny County Library Association.

Registration is requested, but not required.

To register, click on Calendar of Events at southfayettelibrary.org or call 412.257.8660.

Sign out your book at the beginning of the month at the library checkout desk.

EVERY 2ND AND 4TH WEDNESDAY EVENING 6-7:30 p.m. E-Reader Drop-in Help Sessions.

Need help using your e-reader or mobile device? Library staff will guide you in using library resources on e-readers or smart phones the 2nd and 4th Wednesdays of each month. Support available for all e-reader types including Kindles, Nooks and iPads. If possible, please bring your e-reader to the session. Call 412.257.8660 or go to www.southfayettelibrary.org for more information.

THURSDAY MORNINGS, JANUARY 23-FEBRUARY 27 1-1:45 p.m. Math Mites - Level 1. For children ages 3-5 and their caregivers. In this 6-week 44 Market Name 44 South Fayette

session, children will explore concepts such as counting, addition and subtraction, time sequencing, and patterns using Stuart Murphy’s Mathstart series and other picture books that teach math concepts.

Registration is required. Space is limited. To register, click on Calendar of Events at southfayettelibrary.org or call 412.257.8660.

THURSDAY MORNINGS, MARCH 6APRIL 10 10:30-11:30 a.m. Preschool Science. For ages 2-6 years with caregivers. Make the most of your child’s natural instinct to explore and understand their surroundings. All classes have fun and gooey, hands-on science experiments. The instructor shares a book relevant to the class theme. A snack is also provided. Registration is required. Go to Calendar of Events at southfayettelibrary. org, or call 412.257.8660. Please pay $5 for each child, at each class.

EVERY 1ST THURSDAY EVENING 6-7 p.m. Magic Dragon Club. Meets the 1st Thursday of the month January-April. For children in Grades 1-5. Young artists and writers watch a brief instructional video from the Art Lessons from Children series then work on their own creations. At the April 3rd session, students will select their best work and submit it for publication in Magic Dragon magazine. Copies of Magic Dragon are available at the library, or subscribe at

magicdragonmagazine.com. Registration is required. Space is limited. To register, click on Calendar of Events at southfayettelibrary. org or call 412.257.8660.

EVERY 3RD THURSDAY EVENING 6:30-7:30 p.m. Magic Tree House Club. Meets every 3rd Thursday of the month JanuaryApril. Mary Pope Osborne’s Magic Tree House series inspires crafts, readings, science experiments, film clips and other adventures for children with a 2nd to 4th grade reading level. Registration is required. Space is limited. Go to southfayettelibrary.org, or call 412.257.8660 to register or request books.

Books are available for checkout at the library.

FRIDAYS MORNINGS 10:30-11 a.m. Tales ‘n Tunes Story Time. For ages 3-5 years with caregivers. A highenergy program for preschoolers and their caregivers. Children sing songs with movements, listen to stories, and enjoy art activities. This program enhances vocabulary, language, social and motor skills. Get ready for Kindergarten with this exciting program! No registration is required.

ONE SATURDAY AFTERNOON A MONTH Writers Unleashed for Grades 5-8. Writers Unleashed! is a fun, no-cost writing program that middle school teens (grades 5-8) who share a passion for writing explore their

SOU TH FAYE T TE TOW N SHI P N E WS

ONE SATURDAY AFTERNOON A MONTH Writers Unleashed! High School Writing Program. Writers Unleashed! is a Young Writers Program directed by Brittany Ketter and designed for high school teens who share a passion for writing. At Writers Unleashed! participants learn the art of storytelling, sharpen their writing skills and learn how to create inciting incidents, build strong characters, craft plots and work through dialogue. Participants also write a novel and, if desired, are taken through the publishing process. Please email Brittany at ketterb@einetwork.net for information on

South Fayette

craft. Teens write novels and scripts, share word-count goals and achievements, and brainstorm with other writers via online message boards. Brittany Ketter, a seasoned NaNoWriMo (National Novel Writing Month) and ScriptFrenzy veteran, guides teens through the Young Writers Program.

Participants learn about inciting incidents, character building, plot making, dialogue and also work to improve writing skills, grammar and formatting of novels. Please email Brittany at ketterb@einetwork.net for information on upcoming online, in-library and Skype sessions.

upcoming online, in-library and Skype sessions.

ettetl or click the Britannica Reference Center button on our homepage.

EBOOKS, AUDIOBOOKS AND MORE You can check out and download e-books, e-audiobooks and e-videos at http://acla.lib. overdrive.com. To access these digital materials you need, a valid library card, Internet access, and a computer or device that meets the system requirements for the type(s) of digital materials you wish to check out. You will need to download free software for the computer or device on which you wish to use the materials. A guided tour of the service is available. If you need additional assistance, schedule an appointment with a librarian by calling 412.257.8660.

MEMORIAL & HONOR BOOKS A memorial or honor donation to the South Fayette Township Library is a special way to remember a friend or loved one. Donations may also be made in honor of a special person or event (such as a birthday, anniversary, retirement, graduation, etc.).

Your gift will be used to purchase an item for the library’s collection and a nameplate will be placed inside the item indicating the name of the honoree and the donator. To make a donation, go to www. southfayettelibrary.org/ memorialdonationinstructions/ or call 412.257.8660.

ENCYCLOPEDIA BRITTANICA With a valid library card you can access directly from our website Britannica Online providing you with two sites in one—a childfriendly collection and an adult general reference collection. Students can access encyclopedias, Britannicaapproved Web sites, and a Student Center with an atlas, biographies, multimedia, “How To” guides for school reports, and other learning materials. Older students and adults will find similar resources created for advanced information seekers in the Britannica Reference Center (adult) section. Go to http://library. eb.com/storelibrarycard?id=southfay

NEW BOOK ALERTS Want to know what is new in our collection?

Click on New Book Alerts at southfayettelibrary.org. Sign-up for newsletters, place holds for new materials, read & write reviews and more!

Become a Friend of the Library The Friends of the South Fayette Township Library Group is looking for members. If you’re interested in library advocacy and helping the library provide quality materials and programming, come join us. Pressed for time? You can help a little or a lot, depending on your schedule. Call Friends President, Lois Levi at 412.969.1396.

INK CARTRIDGE RECYCLING Gather up those empty ink jet cartridges for recycling at the library!

Market Name | Fall 2013 | icmags.com 45 South Fayette | Winter 2013 | icmags.com 45

Business Directory

46 724.942.0940 TO ADVERTISE | South Fayette

INCOGNITO

DID YOU KNOW?

South Fayette once had its own airport ?

48 724.942.0940 TO ADVERTISE | South Fayette

I

f you traipse through the woods behind the culde-sac of Sterling Drive in South Fayette, it won’t be too long before you come across a long strip of pavement. Keep heading due south, and you’ll come across a longer strip of pavement — the remains of the Campbell Airport, a site that was once an integral part of South Fayette’s evolution as a township. Campbell Airport was a small municipal airport that ceased flights in the 1990s. Today, some businesses use the site for equipment storage, but in its day, the airport guided many corporate and charter flights in and out of the region. Campbell Airport was built by Charles Campbell on a slate dump. Campbell oversaw his father’s coal mine and took flying lessons at an early age, and in 1957 began flying corporate charter flights for the company. As the airport grew, the emphasis turned to serving corporate customers exclusively. The Campbells and their 18 employees discovered South Fayette’s distance from downtown Pittsburgh made the airport ideal for corporate clientele. While Campbell Airport had its own planes available, soon corporate leaders discovered the convenience of flying and started purchasing their own airplanes.

In May 1978, Charles Campbell took off from the airport with two passengers to visit family in Walloon Lake, Michigan. Tragically, the plane went down, killing all on board. Campbell’s wife, Lee, was not traveling with her husband that day and carried on the business, which hit turbulence in 1981 during the air traffic controller strike. ■

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