2021-2022 Student Handbook

LIBRARIAN

ARNOLD, KATHY

N/A

CLASSROOM ASSISTANT

BAJORAS, KATY

7591

DEVELOPMENTAL ADVISOR

BAKER, BRAD

BBAKER1@PGHSCHOOLS.ORG

7171

TEACHER

BALDWIN, JEFF

7044

TEACHER

BOGDANSKI, TRAVIS

TBOGDANSKI1@PGHSCHOOLS.ORG

8065

TEACHER

BUTZLER, MARIANNE

MBUTZLER1@PGHSCHOOLS.ORG

TEACHER

DENARDO, BRIEANA

BDENARDO1@PGHSCHOOLS.ORG

ART TEACHER

DEVERS, KARA

KDEVERS1@PGHSCHOOLS.ORG

TEACHER

DE WIT LORD, CATHARINA

CDEWITLORD1@PGHSCHOOLS.ORG

CLASSROOM ASSISTANT

DURICK, WENDY

WDURICK1@PGHSCHOOLS.ORG

6845

TEACHER

GAJEWSKI, KARI

7076

TEACHER

GARDNER, PATTY

PGARDNER1@PGHSCHOOLS.ORG

6873

TEACHER

GILIBERTO, SARAH

SGILIBERTO1@PGHSCHOOLS.ORG

7412

MUSIC TEACHER

HAWTHORNE, ALAN

AHAWTHORNE1@PGHSCHOOLS.ORG

7378

SPEECH

HUSAIN, SAEEDA

SHUSAIN1@PGHSCHOOLS.ORG

N/A

PRE-K ASSISTANT

INESSO, SUZANNE

7125

TEACHER

JONES, AMY

7381

SECRETARY

KOERBER, AMANDA

AKOERBER1@PGHSCHOOLS.ORG

7384

PRE-K TEACHER

LE, TINA

TLE1@PGHSCHOOLS.ORG

N/A

CLASSROOM ASSISTANT

LEWIS, SARA

8091

TEACHER/SDUC LIASION

LUTTON, LISA

N/A

CLASSROOM ASSISTANT

MARMARELLI, PAM

PMARMARELLI1@PGHSCHOOLS.ORG

6247

TEACHER

MCCORMICK, HOLLY

HMCCORMICK1@PGHSCHOOLS.ORG

7385

PRE-K TEACHER

MCGUIRE, MICHAEL

MMCGUIRE2@PGHSCHOOLS.ORG

8222

TEACHER

MINGRONE, ROSEANN

6825

TEACHER

MOLINARO, JIMI

JMOLINARO1@PGHSCHOOLS.ORG

6543

TEACHER

MULLEE, MELISSA

6731

TEACHER

MURPHY, GINA

GMURPHY1@PGHSCHOOLS.ORG

6458

TEACHER

NEIPORT, JESSE

JNEIPORT1@PGHSCHOOLS.ORG

7946

TEACHER

PHILLIPS, ELAINE

N/A

EDUCATIONAL ASSISTANT

RADACI, STEVE

7382

NURSE

RAYZER, LASAUNE

7377

COUNSELOR/SAC

REINHEIMER, NICOLE

NREINHEIMER1@PGHSCHOOLS.ORG

N/A

EDUCATIONAL ASSISTANT

ROSBOROUGH, MICHELE

MROSBOROUGH2@PGHSCHOOLS.ORG

7851

TEACHER

SCHANCK, HEATHER

HSCHANCK1@PGHSCHOOLS.ORG

7106

TEACHER

SCHMITT, MELISSA

MSCHMITT1@PGHSCHOOLS.ORG

6518

TEACHER

SMITH, AMY

7381

SDSS

SMITH, DIANE

6390

TEACHER

TOKER, TARAH

TTOKER1@PGHSCHOOLS.ORG

N/A

CLASSROOM ASSISTANT

TONERY, KATHY

6871

TEACHER

TORCASIO, LYNDA

LTORCASIO1@PGHSCHOOLS.ORG

8315

PE & HEALTH TEACHER/ FACE

VAITES, JOE

6991

TEACHER

VATER, JOHN

JVATER1@PGHSCHOOLS.ORG

7389

PRINCIPAL

WALKER, LESLIE

7383

CAFETERIA MANAGER

WETZEL, HOLLY

H[email protected]RG

7294

TEACHER

WOLFORD, DENNIS

DWOLFORD1@PGHSCHOOLS.ORG

N/A

PRE-K ASSISTANT

- 8 - | Page

Regular Bell Schedule

Start

End

Free Breakfast Program

8:00

8:20

Community Time / Homeroom

8:20

8:36

Period 1

8:39

9:24

Period 2

9:27

10:12

Period 3

10:15

11:00

Period 4

11:03

11:48

Period 5 + First Lunch

11:51

12:36

Period 6 + Second Lunch

12:44

1:29

Period 7

1:32

2:17

Period 8

2:20

3:05

Extended Homeroom

Bell Schedule

Start

End

Free Breakfast Program

8:00

8:20

Extended Homeroom

8:20

9:01

Period 1

9:04

9:45

Period 2

9:48

10:29

Period 3

10:32

11:13

Period 4

11:16

11:57

Period 5 +First Lunch

12:00

12:45

Period 6 + Second Lunch

12:52

1:37

Period 7

1:40

2:21

Period 8

2:24

3:05

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2 Hour Delay

Bell Schedule

Start

End

Schedule A

Schedule B

Homeroom

10:20

10:35

Period 1

Period 2

10:40

11:20

Period 3

Period 4

11:25

12:05

Period 5

12:10

12:50

Period 6

12:55

1:35

Period 7

1:40

2:20

Period 8

2:25

3:05

Half Day Schedule

Plan A

Plan B

Breakfast

8:00-8:20

Breakfast

8:00-8:20

Homeroom

8:20-8:30

Homeroom

8:20-8:30

Period 1

8:30-9:25

Period 2

8:30-9:25

Period 3

9:25-10:20

Period 4

9:25-10:20

Period 7

10:20-11:15

Period 8

10:20-11:15

Homeroom/Dismissal

11:15-11:25

Homeroom/Dismissal

11:15-11:25

Plan A Dismissal Dates

Plan B Dismissal Dates

September 29, 2023

October 27, 2023

November 17, 2023

December 15, 2023

February 2, 2024

February 16, 2024

March 1, 2024

March 15, 2024

- 10 - | Page

Daily Schedule

⇒

Doors Open: 8:00 am

⇒

Students are not permitted to wait outside of the school before or after school

hours unless accompanied by parent/guardian. Students may enter the

building at 8:00 am when staff is on duty to supervise students. Students are

not to report to school prior to 8:00 a.m.

⇒

Kindergarten enters through lower Woodbourne entrance.

⇒

Grades 1-8 enter through main Woodbourne entrance.

Daily Arrival and Dismissal Routines

SAFETY FIRST - Student safety is our first priority during drop off and pick up. Please

be attentive, be patient, and drive safely! Please exercise caution as you drop off

or pick up students.

Vehicle ARRIVAL (drop off) and DISMISSAL (pick up)

When dropping a student off in the morning or picking up in the afternoon, please

adhere to the following guidelines:

• Obey posted “No Parking” signs. Do not park along the left side curb (read

posted signage) as this is a passing lane.

• Drive Slowly!

• On Woodbourne, pull to the right (school side curb) and ahead as far as

possible so that cars behind you can drop off also and traffic does not build up

on Pioneer Ave.

• Permit students to exit the right side of the vehicle directly onto the sidewalk

(do not have child/children exit on left or street side).

• Do not block Woodbourne Avenue, Pioneer Avenue, the bus driveway, or the

alley.

• Drop or Pick-up and go only. No Standing permitted. Allow other vehicles

to pass safely on your left.

• Pull away after your child exits the vehicle.

Walkers

A Crossing Guard is stationed at the corner of Woodbourne and Pioneer Avenues.

Walkers should obey all posted rules and cross at crosswalks.

Parking

Parking Lot use: Limited parking is available in the parking lot at the side of the

building and in the basketball courts after school and during special events. If you are

dropping off or picking up your child/children, please enter the parking lot, park in a

designated parking space, and safely walk your child to / from the front entrance.

Do not park in or block the driveway leading to the parking lot and do not double

- 11 - | Page

park. Handicap spaces are for permitted cars only.

Pioneer Street drop off / pick up: Parking is not permitted in front of or across from

the school on Woodbourne as posted. Please abide by the posted “No Parking”

signs.

Driveway (Bus/Van Drop off): Please do not park in or block the bus/van lane of our

driveway between Pioneer and Woodbourne. The driveway is for authorized school

vehicles and/or special situations requiring assistance/support by school staff.

Bicycles to School

Students are now permitted to ride their bicycles to school and must adhere to the

following guidelines:

⇒

Upon arrival, students are asked to lock their bicycles at the designated area

on the metal fence immediately in front of the school at the driveway. This

spot is monitored by a security camera.

⇒

Students are not permitted to leave their bicycle overnight or weekend.

⇒

Students are not permitted to ride their bike on school grounds immediately

before, during school, or at dismissal.

⇒

Students are not permitted to bring any motorized bicycle, scooter,

motorcycle, ATV, or any battery and gas powered vehicle.

⇒

Please remember that if your child decides to bring a bicycle to school that

Pennsylvania law requires that any person under the age of twelve (12) riding a

bicycle, as an operator or passenger, must wear a protective bicycle helmet.

Dismissal

Parents and guardians are to meet students on the sidewalk in front of the school at

the following areas:

Kindergarten - Homeroom Teachers dismiss students directly to their

parents/guardians at the Kindergarten Entrance on Woodbourne.

Grades 1-2: Homeroom Teachers dismiss students directly to their parents

from the main entrance sidewalk.

GRADES 3-5: Homeroom Teachers dismiss grades 4-5 at the side steps next to

the teacher’s parking lot entrance on Woodbourne.

GRADES 6- 8: Homeroom Teachers escort students to the Crossing Guard at

Pioneer and Woodbourne.

Again, remember that student safety is our first priority during drop off and pick up.

Please be attentive, be patient, and drive safely! Please exercise caution as you

pick up students.

- 12 - | Page

Absent / Tardy to School

Teaching/Instruction begins at 8:35 am. Pittsburgh Brookline Prek-8 encourages

attendance and promptness to school to minimize disruption to classroom

instruction. Being absent or late to school has many implications. When a student is

absent from or late to school, s/he misses out on valuable information, and this

negatively impacts both the individual and the class. Tardiness interrupts instruction

and the smooth operation of the classroom. Attendance and timeliness also form

the backbone of important habits that lead to success in college and the broader

workforce. Parents will be informed of excessive absences and consistent tardiness

by the attendance officer. A parent conference may be held to determine a plan to

provide support for either of these circumstances.

Students who are absent from school must bring an excuse to the homeroom

teacher within three days of their absence or the absence will be marked unexcused.

This will prompt a district attendance letter notifying the parents of the unexcused

absence. Parents may excuse up to 10 absences per school year. Medical excuses

are not included in the ten parent notes. Excuses may be faxed to the school at 412-

571-7386 or emailed to [email protected].

A Homeroom Citizenship mark will be given to each student based on absences, tardiness,

and behavior. Homeroom absences and tardiness will affect a Homeroom Citizenship mark:

No. of Times

Absent per Report

Period

Citizenship Mark

Assigned

No. of Times

Tardy per Report

Period

Citizenship Mark

Assigned

0-2

(O) Outstanding

0-2

(O) Outstanding

3-4

(S) Satisfactory

3-4

(S) Satisfactory

5-6

(N) Needs

Improvement

5-6

(N) Needs

Improvement

7 or more

(U) Unsatisfactory

Referral to

Principal

7 or more

(U) Unsatisfactory

Referral to

Principal

Early Dismissals

Early dismissals are to be kept to a minimum to ensure that your student is afforded the best

opportunity to complete all intended learning for the day. With that in mind, a note from the

parent informing the school and teachers of an early dismissal helps to alleviate the

disruptive nature of dismissals. Teachers can then prepare materials ahead of time and they

also can plan for student transitions from class to homeroom.

The note from the parent must include the Student Name, HR Number/Teacher, and Time for

dismissal. The student will present the note to their teacher and the teacher will submit the

note to the main office. At the time of the Early Dismissal, the parent or guardian will ring the

bell at the main office and your student will be escorted to the exit.

UNPLANNED EARLY DISMISSALS ARE NOT PERMITTED. Early Dismissals after 2:30 P.M will be

only be permitted IF a note was provided at the beginning of the day or if it is an emergency.

- 13 - | Page

⇒

SAFETY FIRST! Please be aware that random metal detector checks may

occur throughout the school year.

⇒

Use appropriate hall, line, and stair behavior identified on our PBIS Matrix.

⇒

Be respectful and responsible at all times to all students, adults, and

families.

⇒

Be prepared for every class; turn in homework on time.

⇒

Keep all food, candy, beverages in cafeteria. NO CHEWING GUM.

School Dress Code

The Brookline PreK-8 Dress Code has been created with input from students, families,

Parent School Community Council (PSCC) and the PTA. The school district recognizes

the right of students to their freedom of expression in speech and the wearing of

apparel and our Dress Code has been stablished to foster a positive learning

environment for all. Please be mindful of the school dress code as it applies to ALL

students and reinforces the academic climate of the school.

No student shall wear any apparel or jewelry that by words, signs, pictures or any

combination thereof appearing on said clothing or jewelry advocates or promotes

sexual activity or violence, or the use of alcohol or drugs, or demeans or degrades

another because of race, sex, religious persuasion, national origin, handicap or

disability.

Students are expected to wear appropriate clothing at all times while at school.

Clothing must not be of any style, length, or fit that is of a provocative nature. Revealing

attire that permits the exposure of undergarments or private body parts is prohibited.

This prohibition shall be in effect during regular school hours and at any school-

sponsored event whether on or off school premises.

When the children are out on the playground and at gym it is important to remember

they should wear proper footwear. For the safety of the children, we prefer they wear

sneakers/tennis shoes with socks.

Additionally, please keep in mind the following:

⇒

We will adhere to District policies regarding the use of face masks and

COVID-19 protocols.

⇒

Hats are not permitted to be worn in the building.

Students will not be asked to leave their classroom or school for violating dress code

and school police will not respond to dress code violations. Schools will work with

students whose dress is not in compliance with the dress code in a discreet manner

- 14 - | Page

to provide an acceptable solution (e.g., parent/guardian contact, permitting student

to change into other available clothing, or have a variety of extra clothing articles

available to students when their dress does not meet dress code requirements).

Cell Phone Policy

The Brookline PreK-8 Middle School Cell Phone Policy has been created with input

from students, families, Parent School Community Council (PSCC) and the PTA.

Middle School students who bring a cell phone to school will be required to place it

in their homeroom locked bin every morning and it will be returned at the end of the

day.

No cell phones will be permitted to be taken into our classrooms. Cell phones are

permitted; however, they will be locked up safely in the main office during the school

day. If an emergency arises, a student may use the main office phone or classroom

phone to communicate with family members. If there is an emergency at home,

please call the main office and we will assist in communicating with the student.

Students will be required to turn in their cell phones to the administration if they don’t

follow this procedure and it is visible, used, or becomes a distraction. On the first

offense, a parent/guardian will be contacted, and student will be given the phone

back at the end of the day. If there are additional incidents, a parent/guardian must

report to the school to retrieve the phone. Disciplinary action may result for repeated

violations.

Books, Supplies, and Materials

Students are responsible for all books issued to them, including library books.

Required books and supplies must be brought to class. This includes folders,

homework, and pencils. Being unprepared for class may result in a phone call home

or a parent conference. Standard book bags are permitted but must be placed in

lockers. Students who are in grades 6-8 and travel between demountable classrooms

are permitted to carry book bags during school.

The district aims to provide a rich set of technical capabilities that are unique to each

learning community among our full portfolio of schools. These capabilities include

but are not limited to 1-to-1 laptop, tablet or BYOT (Bring your own technology)

environments, the use of classroom laptops, desktops or tablets and the use of labs

for productivity and testing purposes. Technologies also include access to wired and

wireless internet, and district printers, scanners, and other related peripherals.

Students and their families must follow the guidelines established for appropriate

care and use of all district technologies.

Supply lists and information related to materials can be accessed via the school’s

Facebook page and TalkingPoints system.

- 15 - | Page

Breakfast and Lunch Program

Breakfast and lunch are free to all students every day. Please ensure your child has a

healthy start to his/her day. The breakfast and lunch programs begin on the first day

of school. Students may carry a lunch to school or receive a school lunch. Lunch menus

will be available on the District website and attached to our monthly calendar.

Student Attendance and Support Services

The School Developmental advisors, Dr. LaSaune Rayzer (412-529-7377) and Mrs.

Katy Bajoras (412-529-7591), provide a variety of support services to students and

families. Please call the counselors offices directly to arrange a meeting with them

regarding Attendance Concerns, 504 Plans, Individual Education Plans, testing for

Special Education, and Counseling or Support Services. Excessive absences will be

monitored by central office personnel who will work to eliminate chronic

absenteeism.

PSE (Program for Students with Exceptionalities)

Annual Public Notice of Special Education Services and Programs, Services for

Protected Handicapped Students, and Services for Gifted Students

Notice to Parents

The School District of Pittsburgh provides the following annual notice regarding child

find responsibilities to parents and families residing within the School District in

accordance with state and federal laws and regulations. School districts, intermediate

units (IUs) and charter schools are required to conduct child find activities for children

who may be eligible for services via the Individuals with Disabilities in Education Act

(IDEA) and 22 Pa. Code Chapter 14 as well as those who may be eligible for services

via Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 (Section 504) and 22 Pa. Code

Chapter 15. For additional information related to special education and related

services, parents may refer to the IDEA and its implementing regulations, Chapter 14,

and the Basic Education Circulars relating to special education. For additional

information related to Section 504/Chapter 15 services, the parent may refer to

Section 504, Chapter 15, and the Basic Education Circular entitled Implementation of

Chapter 15. Also, school districts are required to conduct child find activities for

children who may be eligible for gifted services via 22 Pa. Code Chapter 16. For

additional information regarding gifted services, the parent may refer to 22 Pa. Code

Chapter 16. If a student is both gifted and eligible for special education, the

procedures in IDEA and Chapter 14 shall take precedence.

This notice shall inform parents throughout the School District of Pittsburgh,

Pittsburgh- Mt. Oliver Intermediate Unit, and charter schools of the child identification

activities and of the procedures followed to ensure confidentiality of information

- 16 - | Page

pertaining to students with disabilities and eligible young children. In addition to this

public notice, the school district, intermediate unit, and charter schools shall publish

written information in the handbook and on the web site (www.pghschools.org).

Children ages three through twenty one can be eligible for special education

programs and services. If parents believe that the child may be eligible for special

education, the parent should contact the appropriate staff member identified at the

end of this public notice.

Identification activities are performed to find a child who is suspected of having a

disability that would interfere with his or her learning unless special education

programs and services are made available. These activities are sometimes called

screening activities. The activities include: review of group data, conducting hearing

and vision screening, assessment of student’s academic functioning, observation of

the student displaying difficulty in behavior and determining the student’s response

to attempted remediation. Input from parents is also an information source for

identification. After a child is identified as a suspected child with a disability, he or she

is evaluated, but is not evaluated before parents give permission for their child to be

evaluated.

The School District of Pittsburgh will be providing ongoing screening services. If you

wish to learn more, have questions, or believe your child may need to be identified,

please contact your child’s school Principal. For further assistance, please contact

Pittsburgh Public Schools Program for Students with Exceptionalities at 412-

529-3132.

Student Citizenship

We subscribe to the fact that Citizenship marks are reflections of the teacher’s

impression of the general behavior, attitudes, values, and habits of an individual

student in the school community and tardiness is a very important part of good

citizenry. Students will receive citizenship marks in homeroom and their classes

based upon attendance.

Medication Procedure

If a student must take medication during school hours, please call the nurse’s office at

412-529-7382 to secure the proper forms. A doctor’s prescription and signed release

are necessary before prescription drugs can be given by the school nurse. All

medications must be brought to school in the original prescription container

including over the counter drugs. No other staff members are permitted to accept or

distribute medications except for the school nurse.

Inclement Weather, School Closings, and 2 Hour Delays

The District posts school closing and 2 HOUR delay announcements on its website:

www.pghschools.org. The following radio and television stations announce school

closing or delays: KDKA Radio, KQV, BOB-FM, WPXI 11, WTAE 4, and KDKA 2.

- 17 - | Page

Inclement Weather Recess Policy

Students will not be permitted to go outside for recess when the temperature is

below 32 degrees and/or the wind chill factor is below 32 degrees.

Homework

The role of the caregiver is to encourage the child by showing interest and providing

a consistent place and time for the child to work. An adult should be available for

explanations and, especially in the case of younger children, to make certain the child

understands the directions.

Tips

⇒

Have a regular place and time for your child to do homework

⇒

Turn off the TV and radio

⇒

Talk about assignments with your child

⇒

Compliment your children on their effort and accomplishments

Field Trips

Throughout the year your child will be involved in activities that will require him or her

to be out of the school building. These trips will be educational in nature. You will be

notified of the dates and purpose of each field trip. A general permission slip must be

completed and returned to your child’s homeroom teacher before he/she may go on

any trips.

Parent/Teacher Conferences and Communication

Parent/teacher conferences and two-way communication are a vital part of every

child’s education. Teachers are available for in-person or phone conferences upon

request, but may not be interrupted while instruction of students is occurring. Please

be sure to call the teacher using his/her direct line or contact the main office at 412-

529-7380 to schedule an appointment with any teacher to discuss your child’s

progress. You may also email the teacher directly at any time.

The school also uses Facebook, District Website, and the Let’sTalk Text app to

communicate with parents. The automated telephone message system, Facebook,

and Let’sTalk are used to inform parents of important meetings and events.

Additional forms of communication will include school notices/flyers and bulletins.

Primary students will be provided with an assignment folder. Parents are

encouraged to communicate school concerns to their child’s teacher.

In order to be correctly contacted via phone or text, we need your current phone

number. You will provide this on our yearly Emergency Contact Form. If your phone

number changes during the school year, please contact the office and provide the

- 18 - | Page

new phone number.

Classroom Observations

Parents are welcome to observe in your child’s classrooms. Please schedule the

visitation through the main office at 412-529-7380. The principal and teacher must

be made aware of the reason for the observation and will accompany parents during

an observation. A feedback meeting can be held which will include the teacher,

parent, and principal.

Become a School Volunteer

We believe the efforts of ALL stakeholders make a difference in the development of

every student and welcome parents to support school activities and events as

volunteers. Parent volunteers support the mission of the school. To be a volunteer,

one must obtain the proper clearances to work with students. This includes

participating in classrooms, all field trips and chaperoning of any school event.

Forms are available in the main office if you wish to become a parent volunteer.

Please review our Parent Involvement Policy and School Compact for additional

information. More information can be found at

https://www.pghschools.org/volunteering

Keys to Success:

⇒

Work with teachers to ensure the success of your child.

⇒

Contact your child’s teacher or arrange for a conference to discuss your child’s

progress or obtain ideas about helping your child learn at home.

⇒

Be a positive role model.

⇒

Have a good attitude toward education and our school. You are the most

powerful influence on your child.

⇒

Support the school’s efforts to maintain a safe and orderly learning environment.

⇒

Help your child be prepared for school by having materials and being on time

for school.

⇒

Support school policies.

⇒

Help your child develop good study habits.

⇒

Show interest in your child’s schoolwork and homework.

⇒

Hold your child accountable.

⇒

Respond promptly to progress notices.

⇒

Become an active participant in the activities your child is involved in.

⇒

Urge your child to seek help when appropriate.

⇒

Take your child to the library for a library card. Librarians are trained to help find

the right books for your child. Show interest and encourage your child’s selection

of reading materials.

⇒

Read books together. Anything positive your child reads will help.

⇒

Help your child log all books read in a school issued reading log, which will

- 19 - | Page

support their efforts in meeting the district’s milestones for reading.

⇒

Provide educational puzzles, games, and positive learning situations in your

home. This helps your child to develop good concentration and problem-solving

abilities.

⇒

Attend or stream PTA meetings and parent school community council meetings

on a regular basis.

⇒

Provide the school with up-to-date phone numbers so that we can contact you

in case of illness, emergency, etc.

⇒

Complete and submit the school emergency contact, care and medication

forms.

Social-Emotional Learning (‘SEL’)

We all know that it is essential for children to master important academic skills, such as reading

and mathematics. That’s why they go to school. But it is equally important for students to

develop the “soft skills” that we all need to navigate the world successfully. These include

things like how to manage their own feelings and emotions, how to respect others and how to

build strong, positive relationships. This is called Social-Emotional Learning (SEL).

According to The Collaborative for Academic, Social, and Emotional Learning, there are five core

competencies that will help individuals–both children and adults—navigate the world more

successfully. They are:

•

Self-awareness: Know your own strengths and weaknesses and have a“growth

mindset.”

•

Self-management: Manage your stresses and impulses and be prepared to set and work

towards goals.

•

Social awareness: Be open to the perspectives of others and respect cultural differences

•

Relationship skills: Work on your communication skills, your willingness to cooperate

with others and accept constructive criticism.

•

Responsible decision-making: Make good choices based on ethical standards, safety and

social norms.

Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (‘PBIS’)

A positive school culture is everyone’s responsibility and critical to achieving

academic success. Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports, or PBIS, is meant

to formally instruct students on positive behavior choices and randomly reward

students for their positive behavior, thereby cultivating not only the behavioral

expectations of the school, but also creating intrinsic motivation to “do the right

thing.” PBIS, when delivered consistently and with fidelity, should be like any other

- 20 - | Page

subject in school. Students will be recognized for their positive behaviors with

rewards including shopping in a school store and/or a treasure chest as well as other

incentives throughout the year.

Our school slogan is ‘Bobcats are Respectful, Responsible and Safe.’

Students are recognized for their positive behaviors with rewards including shopping

in the school store and/or treasure chest, as well as other incentives throughout the

year. Students are randomly assigned points for demonstrating (both individually

and as a group) our school-wide expectations. Being Respectful, Responsible, or

Safe will earn students points through our PBIS Rewards system. All staff members

can give Points to reinforce positive behaviors. We hope that students become

excited and energized to earn points and add points to their PBIS rewards account.

These points can then be used to purchase items, trips, snacks, etc. as a reward for

adding to a positive school environment and culture.

Restorative Practices

Restorative Practices is a positive way of living – NOT a disciplinary tool. Through

Restorative Practices, students learn to connect with teachers and other students to

build a strong community. They develop appropriate social-emotional skills, come to

understand how their actions affect others, and work to repair any harm done. It is an

approach built on respect, communication, and strategies for success. We

understand that when everyone is treated with respect, classrooms are safe and

healthy environments that support both teaching and learning.

Restorative Practices is not unique to Pittsburgh Public Schools. It is used successfully

on college campuses, in the world of business, in counseling and social work, and in

the criminal justice system. At Pittsburgh Public Schools, we start by setting

expectations for students, then coupling these expectations with support and

communications. Teachers and staff in all PPS schools have been formally trained in

Restorative Practices techniques in order to build a positive school culture. They

participate in monthly meetings to discuss how Restorative Practices is working in

their school.

Student Envoy and Efficacy

Pittsburgh Public Schools has partnered with the Efficacy Institute since 2015. Our

work with the Efficacy Institute is focused on introducing educators and students to

academic mindsets rooted in the belief that intellectual capacity is not static and can

be built-up through sustained application of effective effort toward challenging tasks

and high expectations.

The Efficacy Institute defines “efficacy” as—the capacity to mobilize the efforts of

adults and children towards development. The development being referred to is

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both in terms of academics and character. To support the mobilization of these

efforts, the Efficacy Institute introduces staff and students to 5 Levers that can be

applied directly to the work we’re already doing within our building. Student Envoy is

a group of students to be role models for the entire student body, engaging in a

variety of activities to help students know and understand the 5 levers of Efficacy.

Student Code of Conduct

The Student Code of Conduct can be found here:

https://www.pghschools.org/domain/43

The school will adhere to this policy for all discipline concerns.

To ensure the safety of all students, staff and visitors, Pittsburgh Brookline PreK-8

follows the District’s visitor procedures outlined below and has a comprehensive

school safety plan. The safety plan outlines the roles and responsibilities of staff in the

event of a school-based or external issue/emergency. In addition, throughout the

year, students participate in various safety drills to ensure students and staff are

prepared in the event of an emergency. These may include fire, lockdown, bus,

severe weather, and active shooter (ALICE) drills.

In the event of an emergency, School Police or Pittsburgh City Police, may

recommend Pittsburgh Brookline PreK-8 be placed in a modified lockdown, full

lockdown or evacuate to an alternative site. The procedures for these actions are

listed below.

Modified Lockdown

A modified lockdown means that normal instructional activities continue as much as

possible; however, no outside events, field trips or outside activities (including recess)

occur unless explicitly cleared by School Police. While in modified lockdown, entry

and exit to the school will be restricted and only individuals with a pre-existing

appointment are permitted to enter the school facility. A modified lockdown may be

called when there is a community issue that is external to the school and not directed

at the school.

Full Lockdown

In the event of a lockdown, all exterior doors and windows will be locked and no one

aside from emergency/ administrative crisis team personnel will be permitted to

enter or exit the school facility. During full lockdown, students will be kept safe in

individual secured classrooms during the event and are not permitted to go outside

or attend outside activities or field trips. School Police or school leadership will place

a school on full lockdown to minimize student/staff exposure to a potential threat. For

example, this procedure may be used when City of Pittsburgh Police or School Police

warn the school of a fugitive in the neighborhood or when a threat has been received

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by the school.

Evacuation

Evacuations may occur in the case of a threat, fire or other event making the school

building unsafe. Students and staff will be evacuated to a designated evacuation site

when leaving the building is the safest alternative. The Pittsburgh Brookline PreK-8

evacuation site is The Brookline Teen Outreach Center located at 520 Brookline

Boulevard, Pittsburgh, PA 15226. In the event of an evacuation, attendance is taken to

assure all staff and students are out of the building and arrive at the designation site

safely. The following standard reunification plan will be implemented to ensure all

students are safely returned to their families. During a reunification, families are

directed to:

• Bring a valid form of Identification (ID)

• Follow signage and parking direction of reunification location.

• Complete the provided reunification form.

• Choose the check-in line that corresponds to your student’s grade.

• Provide school personnel at the check-in table with a valid form of photo ID

and the completed reunification form.

• Wait patiently as a District staff member retrieves and escorts your student to

you.

Only approved adults with valid photo identification will be allowed to pick-up

students from the evacuation location.

Communication with families during an emergency

If Pittsburgh Brookline PreK-8 is placed on a modified lockdown, full lockdown or is

required to evacuate to an alternative site, an attempt will be made by personnel at

Pittsburgh Brookline PreK-8 or the District to contact families as quickly as possible

through the phone messaging system. This communication will occur when the

school emergency occurs and again when the emergency is resolved or information

has changed. For this reason, it is important to complete all paperwork at the

beginning of each school year and contact the school anytime primary or emergency

contact information changes.

⇒

While it is important for us to quickly update parents, it is also important that

the information we send is accurate. Please be aware that emergency

situations are fluid and always changing, and that information received from

non-District sources such as the news media and social media may be

inaccurate. Depending on the type of emergency, the District may also utilize

its website, Facebook and twitter accounts to provide timely information to

families.

⇒

In addition to a phone call, an additional notice may be sent home with

students or emailed to families. The notice may include other information as

appropriate such as lunch changes, transportation adjustments and extra-

curricular and co-curricular activity modifications.

⇒

When receiving a phone call that Pittsburgh Brookline PreK-8 has been

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directed to be placed on a modified lockdown, full lockdown or has been

evacuated, please remain calm and do not attempt to come to the school. We

understand that the first reaction of many families is to come to the school,

however, families should wait until they are advised that it is safe to pick up

their child. Families arriving unadvised to the school may actually hinder the

emergency response and could jeopardize their own safety. In extreme cases,

law enforcement can arrest anyone who they determine is compromising their

efforts.

⇒

If your child calls or texts you during a school emergency, please encourage

him or her to remain calm and follow the directions of the teachers and staff.

Also encourage your child not to post information to social media sites as it

can lead to misinformation and confusion.

The District has strong partnerships with local law enforcement and will work

collaboratively with City of Pittsburgh Police to respond quickly to potential threats

and ensure student and staff safety at all times. Please contact the main office if you

have any questions regarding these procedures.

Visitor Procedures

All visitors to our school are required to follow the District's visitor procedures. Please

share these procedures with anyone you have listed as an emergency contact for

your child.

⇒

If you are planning to visit a classroom or other area of the school building

during the school day, you should call the building office and pre-register

for an appointment prior to the date of the visit. Absent an emergency,

requests to meet with a classroom teacher or other staff member should be

made at least 48 hours in advance to allow the school sufficient time to

make arrangements for substitute coverage, as necessary.

⇒

Upon arrival at the school building, all visitors must register in the main

office before proceeding to any other part of the building.

⇒

As part of the registration process in the main office, all visitors will be

asked to sign the visitor register and provide their driver's license or other

state-issued photo-identification, which will be held by the building office

for the duration of the visit. Car or house keys may be accepted in lieu of a

driver's license or photo ID at the discretion of the building office.

⇒

Once registered, the visitor will be issued a Visitor Identification Badge,

which must be displayed at all times while the visitor remains in the school

building or on school premises.

⇒

Visitors must remain in approved areas only and at all times act in a manner

appropriate to the safe functioning of the school environment. Any

individual who engages in uncooperative or disruptive behavior will be

required to leave the premises.

⇒

Upon conclusion of the visit, the visitor must return to the main office, sign

out on the Visitor Register and return the visitor badge. Once the visitor has

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checked out, staff in the main office will return the visitor's driver's license,

ID or keys, as applicable.

The District reserves the right to deny an individual entry to any school building,

when there is reason to believe that such individual's presence would be detrimental

to the operation of the school and the learning environment.

Keeping Primary/Emergency Contact Information Up-to-Date

Please remember to ensure your primary and emergency contact information is

up to date at all times. Having working telephone numbers is important for staff at

Pittsburgh Brookline PreK-8 to be able to reach you or your designated family or

friends in the event of an emergency with your child or at the school. Please share our

visitor procedures and school safety information with all of the individuals you

designate as an emergency contact. A child’s emergency contact is the person who is

responsible for picking up your child in the event you or your child’s additional

guardian is unavailable. As a school, we take the releasing of any child to an unknown

adult very seriously.

Therefore, it is important to make sure each of your child’s emergency contacts know

the following when visiting our school:

⇒

Must show proof of identification. A child will not be released to an

individual that does not show proper identification or if the identification

does not match the information in the District’s student information system.

⇒

Must understand the District’s visitor procedures. All visitors must use the

main entrance of the school building and sign-in in the main office. No

visitors are permitted to visit classrooms or walk hallways or main areas of

the school without signing in.

⇒

Must understand District’s Reunification procedures and know child’s

school reunification location. Each school has an alternative location for

pick-up in the event of a school-based emergency. Any individual wishing

to pick-up a child from an alternative location, must be listed as

parent/guardian or emergency contact and must show proof of

identification.

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Family Resources

Alliance for Community Respite Care - 1(888) 954-2424

A collaborative network of families, providers, community members and advocates who work to ensure the

availability of quality respite care.

www.classcommunity.org/how-we-help/alliance-community-respite-care

Allegheny Family Network (AFN) - 1(888) 273-2361

Supports and partners with families raising children with emotional and mental health needs to improve their

quality of life.

www.alleghenyfamilynetwork.cfsites.org

Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh - (412) 622-3114

The Carnegie library has multiple branch locations offering special services such as job career and educational

centers.

www.clpgh.org

Child Care Information Services - CCIS of Allegheny County – City - (412) 261-2273 or 1(800) 392-3131

CCIS serves as a primary resource to assist families with child care referrals, emergency childcare, subsidized care

for qualifying families, and promotes quality child care by offering training in subjects such as early literacy.

http://www.dhs.state.pa.us/findfacilsandlocs/childcareinformationservices/

Children’s Health Insurance Program - CHIP - 1(800) 986-5437

Pennsylvania’s program to provide health insurance to all uninsured children and teens who are not eligible for or

enrolled in Medical Assistance.

www.chipcoverspakids.com

Family Resources - (412) 363-1702

Family Resources offers many services to help parents and children improve their relationship along with youth

enrichment activities at its centers.

www.familyresourcesofpa.org

The Mentoring Partnership of Southwestern Pennsylvania - (412) 281-2535

Helps mentoring programs by providing training, recruiting, quality assistance, and support to increase the number

of mentors in the community.

www.mentoringpittsburgh.org

Parent Education & Advocacy Leadership (PEAL) Center - (412) 281-4404

The PEAL Center is an organization of parents of children with disabilities reaching out to assist other parents and

professionals.

www.pealcenter.org

Pittsburgh Public Schools - (412) 529-4357 (Parent Hotline)

The Pittsburgh Public Schools believes in regular, two-way, meaningful communication connecting student

academic learning and other school activities;

to this end the Parent Hotline is one of a number of resources to assist parents and families in engagement.

www.pps.k12.pa.us

Right to Education Task Force – (412) 529-2300

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The Local Task Force provides opportunities for parents, guardians and community members to ask questions

about special education services as well as address concerns that affect students with disabilities in the Pittsburgh

Public School District.

Program for Students with Exceptionalities PSE/Oliver

2323 Brighton Rd.

Pittsburgh, Pa. 15212

ltf2pgh@gmail.com

http://on.fb.me/1vtwvYK

United Way of Allegheny County - 211 (HelpLine), (412) 261-6010

United Way of Allegheny County provides information to families through their online resource Help Connections;

agency funding, planning, and community problem solving for health and human services agencies operating

within Allegheny County.

www.unitedwaypittsburgh.org

Children’s Services

Achieva - (412) 995-5000

A world-renowned leader in the field of disabilities, known for its innovative programs, and dedication to children

with disabilities and their families.

www.achieva.info

Alliance for Infants and Toddlers - (412) 885-6000

This program provides service coordination, screenings, assessments, family support services, and early

intervention service coordination to families with children between the ages of birth to three years of age.

www.afit.org

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Greater Pittsburgh - (412) 363-6100

Big Brothers Big Sisters increases the self-confidence of children and the probability that they will become fully

integrated members of society, leading productive and rewarding lives through mentoring and enrichment

programs.

www.bbbspittsburgh.org

Boys and Girls Clubs - (412) 782-5710

The BGC is a unique organization consisting of 8 Club facilities, a Charter H.S., Outlet Connection retail venture,

Campfire USA, and extension programs. Our goal is to provide every child with the essential tools needed for a

successful & bright future.

www.bgcwpa.org

Catholic Charities, Child Care Support Services - (412) 456-6999

Catholic Charities provides counseling, refugee resettlement, respite care, utility assistance, emergency relief,

tangible assistance services and makes referrals for clients. In 2007 it expanded services by opening a Free Health

Care Center.

www.ccpgh.org

Children’s Institute - (412) 420-2400

The Children’s Institute is a nonprofit pediatric rehabilitation facility which provides education services for children

ages two to 21 with cognitive or physical disabilities with in-home services for children and families with special

needs.

www.amazingkids.org

Girl Scouts - Trillium Council - (412) 566-2570 or 1(800) 248-3355

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The Girl Scouts inspires girls with the highest ideals of character, conduct, patriotism, and service that they may

become happy and resourceful citizens.

www.gswpa.org

Greater Pittsburgh Council Boy Scouts of America - (412) 471-2927

The Boy Scouts trains young people in citizenship, service, and physical fitness through the Cub Scouting, Boy

Scouting, Venturing programs, & more.

www.gpc-bsa.org

Junior Achievement of Southwest PA Inc. – (412) 208-4747

JA’s purpose is to educate and inspire young people to value free enterprise and understand business & economics

to improve the quality of their lives.

https://www.juniorachievement.org/web/ja-westernpa

Parks and Recreation - (412) 255-2539

Parks and Recreation offers a wide variety of recreational programs and facilities for use by Pittsburgh citizens.

http://pittsburghpa.gov/citiparks/

Pittsburgh Toy Lending Library - (412) 682-4430

The Pittsburgh Toy Lending Library, a cooperative run by volunteers, is an indoor play-space for children, pre-

kindergarten, and their caregivers.

www.pghtoys.org

Urban League of Greater Pittsburgh - (412) 227-4802

The Urban League is the largest social and educational service provider and advocacy agency devoted to

empowering African Americans to enter the economic and social mainstream community in Pittsburgh through its

diverse programs.

www.ulpgh.org

YMCA- (412) 227-3800

YMCAs serve America’s children, families and communities by “building healthy spirit, mind and body for all.”

www.ymcaofpittsburgh.org

YouthPlaces - (412) 434-0851

YouthPlaces promotes the positive cognitive, social, physical, emotional and moral development of youth by

providing a safe place for them to engage in a range of activities.

www.youthplaces.org

YouthWorks Inc. - (412) 281-6629

YouthWorks builds a community solution to help young people whose potential might be overlooked to pursue

employment and career development opportunities.

www.youthworksinc.org

YWCA Greater Pittsburgh - (412) 391-5100

YWCA works to improve our community by increasing the status of women, girls, families and advancing racial

justice by tackling homelessness, childcare needs, unemployment, fair housing and civil rights issues.

www.ywcapgh.org

Cultural Organizations

The August Wilson Center - (412) 258-2700

The August Wilson Center for African American Culture is a not-for-profit organization that presents performing,

visual and education programs that celebrate the contributions of African Americans within the region and the

impact of cultural expression from Africa to the African Diaspora.

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https://culturaldistrict.org/venues/august-wilson-center

Carnegie Museums of Pittsburgh - (412) 622-3131 Natural History & Art, (412) 237-3400 Science Center, (412)

237-8300 Andy Warhol

A collection of four dynamic, distinctive museums, and the Pittsburgh region’s home for great art and science

exploration.

www.carnegiemuseums.org

Children’s Museum of Pittsburgh - (412) 322-5058

Children’s Museum of Pittsburgh provides innovative museum experiences that inspire joy, creativity and curiosity.

www.pittsburghkids.org

Fort Pitt Museum - (412) 281-9284

Through exhibits and programs, the museum also addresses the important role of Fort Pitt during the American

Revolution and the early development of the city of Pittsburgh.

http://www.heinzhistorycenter.org/fort-pitt/

The History Center - (412) 454-6000

The Senator John Heinz History Center is an affiliate of the Smithsonian Institution and the largest history museum

in the state of Pennsylvania.

www.heinzhistorycenter.org

Manchester Craftsmen’s Guild - (412) 322-1773

Manchester Craftsmen's Guild is a multi-discipline, minority directed, center for arts and learning that employs the

visual and performing arts to foster a sense of accomplishment and hope in the urban community.

www.mcgyouthandarts.org

National Aviary - (412) 323-7235

The National Aviary is America’s only independent indoor nonprofit bird zoo. It is home to 600+ birds of more than

200 species.

www.aviary.org

Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens - (412) 622-6914

Encounter the wonders of the natural world. Tour through the jewel-like Conservatory and visit exotic lands and

ancient worlds with vivid colors, natural oddities, and surprises around every corner of the botanical gardens.

www.phipps.conservatory.org

Pittsburgh Zoo & PPG Aquarium - (412) 665-3640

The Pittsburgh Zoo & PPG is a 77-acre facility that is home to thousands of animals representing hundreds of

diverse species. The Pittsburgh Zoo & PPG Aquarium is one of only six major zoo and aquarium combinations in

the country. www.pittsburghzoo.org

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Please feel free to cut out and copy these notes – or– submit a

handwritten or doctor’s note for every student absence.

Pittsburgh Brookline PreK-8

500 Woodbourne Avenue

Pittsburgh PA 15226

Phone 412-529-7380 Fax 412-571-7386