In This Issue • Class of 2020 • Special education • Thank you, Dr. Saylor • Virtual reality Thank you, Dr. Saylor

“It becomes evident that my profes- Dr. Saylor provided leadership that sional goals go beyond myself,” Saylor was positive and supportive for all added. “They are designed not to staff and students. In her eight years simply improve me in some way, but at Bellefonte Area School District, Bellefonte Area Board of Message from the board more importantly to lift others – to she brought new, fresh and creative build capacity, to positively affect ideas to the district for students and School Directors By Jon Guizar Mark Badger student growth, to sustain an effec- staff. Her legacy is inspiring students Kristen Bruckner While summer is upon us once again, we are certain tive program or to increase human and staff to think outside the box, to Julie Fitzgerald that it is not the summer any of us had envisioned. capital. They are born of purpose and embrace challenges, and to learn from Jon Guizar, President nurtured with love.” and support one another. This legacy Max Kroell Our days have been consumed with more basic and will be evident in those who crossed Rodney Musser immediate thoughts, which almost none of us have Donna Smith Saylor lived in the Bellefonte Area paths with her. I’ve learned a lot from Jeff Steiner, Vice President ever seen before – school closures, social distancing Assistant superintendent community and helped ignite Bellefonte Dr. Saylor, including the importance of Kimberly Weaver guidelines, stay-at-home orders, shortages of cleaning supplies and food August 2012 to June 2016 Area School District values of pride looking at issues and challenges from Tammie Burnaford, Interim Superintendent items at the grocery stores, and so much more. If that wasn’t enough, we Scott Etter, Solicitor Superintendent and tradition. She also made it her all perspectives. This is something I will then were plunged into remote learning, with no sports, no performing July 2016 to June 2020 mission to enhance the district’s global strive to do as I continue on to my role arts, no class trips, and now, once again, no stadium graduation, no large education initiative to allow faculty, as interim superintendent. Contact groups and not even a traditional graduation for our seniors to celebrate Former Superintendent Michelle staff, students and the community to Administration office………………...... 355-4814 Saylor regularly wrote a blog about embrace learning beyond Bellefonte. On behalf of Bellefonte Area School Superintendent’s office……………...... ext. 3005 their hard work and prepare for the next adventure as they continue life’s Director of Fiscal Affairs……...... ext. 3015 journey. Our hearts are with everyone in this challenging time. different educational topics. Titled, District, we wish Dr. Saylor all the Assistant Superintendent……...... ext. 3004 “For the love of learning,” it high- In January, Saylor publicly announced blessings and happiness in her jour- Director of Human Resources…...... …...ext. 3002 With the ever changing environment we have endured and that we must lighted trends in education that also her retirement – a decision that came ney, and thank her for her dedicated Director of Special Education……...... ext. 3021 featured her passion for the work. after more than two decades in edu- service to the district. continue to navigate, it is very easy to lose sight of our primary mission Business office…………………...... ext. 3001 cation. Filling the role in the interim is Director of Physical Plant………...... ….ext. 3006 as leaders, educators and as a community – the reason for the season, if Director of Food Service……...... …...... ext. 3010 “It is a privilege and honor to serve Tammie Burnaford, assistant superin- To learn more about the super- Director of Transportation………...... ….ext. 3015 you will. Please join us as you make your way through this edition of Red as the superintendent of our district,” tendent. In the spring, Burnaford par- intendent transition, visit this link: Bellefonte Elementary…………...... …...355-5519 Raider magazine and celebrate the reason we all work hard to do our part she once said. ticipated in an interview with reporter www.basd.net/Page/15013 Benner Elementary………………...... 355-2812 in support of our school district – our students! Vincent Corso from the Centre County Marion-Walker Elementary………...... 357-2425 Pleasant Gap Elementary………...... …...359-2739 And she meant it wholeheartedly. Gazette, which she said this: Bellefonte Area Middle School…...... ….355-5466 Specifically, we would like to thank the Class of 2020 for your patience as Bellefonte Area High School……...... 355-4833 you all continue to miss so many opportunities that students before you BeLA……………………………...... …..ext. 3053 Website: www.basd.net have enjoyed. However, please don’t be discouraged. Know that you will continue on your journey and use what you have learned to adapt and thrive in what’s been called the “new normal.” You will succeed if you Discrimination Policy study hard, work hard and remember to play hard, as well. Don’t be con- The Bellefonte Area School District is an equal opportunity education institution and will not tent to follow the path that others create for you, but forge your own way discriminate on the basis of race, color, age, and be your best. Innovate, create, persevere and embrace failures, as they creed, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender truly are a necessary step toward success. identity, ancestry, national origin or disability in its activities, programs, or employment We wish you all the best that life has to offer. practices as required by Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, Title IX of the Educational Amendments of 1972, Sections 503 and 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1975, the Age Discrim- ination Act of 1975, and the Americans with On the cover: As Bellefonte Area Disabilities Act of 1990 and the Pennsylvania School District was ordered to close as Human Relations Act. Information relative to part of Gov. Tom Wolf’s state mandate special accommodations, grievance procedure and to help prevent the spread of novel designated responsible official for compliance with Title VI, Title IX, and Section 504 may be coronavirus during the COVID-19 obtained either by contacting our human re- pandemic, many teachers switched to sources department at (814) 355-4814, ext. 3002 virtual means of educating students. or by contacting the superintendent’s office at Pleasant Gap Elementary School (814) 355-4814, ext. 3005. third-grade teachers Pam Grimminger Editor’s note: Information in this edition of and Trevor Montgomery regularly Red Raider magazine was made in the spring to used video platforms such as Google accommodate the May deadline. Other school- Meet and Zoom to connect with their related information can be found in the “School classes. Art teacher Amy Shoemaker also logged in to see the kids. You may News” tab on the district’s website, www.basd.net, read more about online education and other alternative learning efforts on and on its social media accounts. pages 7, 11 and 15. *Photos provided by the CDT and used with permission 1 / ISSUE NO. 45 BASD.NET / 2 Graduation message By Class President Natalie Book Other class officers Vice President CLASS OF 2020 During our junior year, delays concerning Bellefonte’s rebuilding Olivia Reiter of Roger Stadium robbed our school of the fellowship and Treasurer opportunities surrounding hosting home football games. Alina Watson However, upon returning to a brand-new stadium our senior Kaitlyn Alterio Hunter Gardner Brian Hill Vincent Lawrence Calen McCloskey Alexis Osborne Secretary Luke Baney Dennis Gerasenko Aaron Hillard Delilah Ledesma Megan McClure Maya O’Shea year, our enthusiasm and appreciation for not only the new Abby Harper Tynnia Barnhart Logan Gettier Mitchell Holden Ryan Lehman Tala McCool Kacee Oswalt field, but the chance to be together was unmatched. Even Trae Bauman Logan Giffin Andrew Hollars Rachel Lexon Celina McGrail Sarah Owens though our senior celebrations and memories are not Gabrielle Bean Alyssa Glace Alexis Hosterman Scott Liliedahl Sierra McIntosh Rylin Pacella Class advisers Tyler Benner Zoe Goff Emily Hovies Aaron Little Jillian McKee Logan Paige what we had anticipated or hoped for, we understand English teacher Blake Berenty Anna Goodrow Kyle Hoy Nathan Long Evan McMullen Conner Payne that our losses enabled others to keep from losing Ashlie Crosson Nicholas Bergman Amber Peacock Logan Bernier Andrew Peters far more. Furthermore, we know from the Video production teacher Conner Bitner Keeli Pighetti experiences of our junior year, this season of disappointment will pass, and when it Carla Cipro Kayla Bitner-Bruss Jasmine Platt does we will come through COVID-19 with a new appreciation for the friends that Hunter Blair Karlie Pletcher Natalie Book Alexander Poulin accompany and the opportunities that await us. As a class, we will make a greater Alec Bossert Breanna Praskovich difference in the world because we have learned not only reading, writing and *Photo by business teacher and Kiara Boughton Nolan Putnam arithmetic, but lasting life lessons of self-sacrifice and gratitude. yearbook adviser Andrew Weigold Alexa Bressler Olivia Reiter Selah Brown Skylar Ridenour Zebadiah Brungard Chelsea Robson Thomas Bumbarger Marty Rockey Demetri Butts Ian Rogers Robert Cain Phoebe Rowland Dillon Campbell Trinity Rupert Valedictorian Salutatorian Annalee Caprio Hunter Sell Shaun Carey Elisa Shadow Nicholas Catalano Brittany Shawley Elizabeth Hargrove Keeli Pighetti Stephanie Catalano Jessica Shearer 101.0082% 100.3939% Marianne Chico Grace Sherman Owen Christopher Cassandra Shinham Messiah University Bloomsburg University Colton Clark Amber Shirey Biomedical engineering Early childhood and Chyeanne Coble Anna Simmon Ezekiel Confer Mallorie Smith special education Jacob Confer Chelsea Snook Madison Confer Alexandra Spencer Sarah Conner Samuel Sprout Tyler Cooke Madison Steiner Alex Coppolo Isaac Stem Casey Corso Christian Stitzer Jeremy Cousins Dylan Stock SENIOR SPOTLIGHT Hope Cox Brooke Stroud Austin Craig Tarin Sunday William Crater Jack Swarm Shane Cronin Dylan Taylor Madison Dagen JaVaun Taylor Kalista Darney Karalee Tedrow Dustin Deitrich Dahrran Teeter Zane Deitrich Charles Theuer Lindsay Dillon Logan Thompson Alexander Doebler Sully Tibbens Kevin Doyle Daniel Tishchenko Nicholas Dugan Sarah Tobin Ethan Ebeling Katherine Uchneat Kalista Darney Kevin Doyle Mackenzie Ebeling Jillian McKee Evan McMullen Mackenzie Ebeling Logan VonGunden What are your plans What’s your favorite What tips do you have How did you make Who is someone you’d Nicholas Edwards Hunter Walk the best of the unex- Alexander Eichenlaub Alina Watson after graduation? for underclassmen? like to thank that posi- I’ll be attending Saint high school memory? pected school closure? Julian Emel Tre Wilson Always be yourself. tively influenced you? Riley Emel Rachael Witmer Francis University for My favorite memory By sticking to what I Jenna Etter Brianna Woomer a major in business Don’t let the pressure know best – positivity. I’d like to thank my Lilith Evans Tara Woomer of high school was I always turn my head analytics and minor of life get you down friends and family for Mercedes Evans Dylan Young helping with the Life the other way and strive Alexis Facer Morgan Zweig in accounting. I love and change who you for a positive mindset. all they’ve done over Dakota Featherer Austin Greene Alexander Lomartire Kara Mellott Skills Cafe. Mackenzie Hubbs data and working with are inside. Never take During my time I mostly these past four years. Aidan Fennessey Mason Grey Ashley Ishler Austin Martin Ethan Mikesic *Some student photos numbers, so if I can Linzy Fetterolf Emily Hagenbuch John Jennings Brady Martin Shayna Miller *Learn more about life’s moments for journaled my experienc- They’ll never know were omitted from come back to the area Jaidyn Fountain Elizabeth Hargrove Hailey Johnson Jordon Mathias Cameron Murray this page because the the Life Skills Cafe, granted, because you es and adventures. It’s how much their Gunner Fravel Abigail Harper Taylor Johnson Jakob Matis Tyler Muse students indicated the to provide expertise to a good reminder that I Maya Fulton Sara Hart Taylor Kerr Luciano Mazzotta Emily Musser here: www.basd.net/ never know when they support has truly district was not permit- small businesses to help have things to look for- Carter Funk Jason Harter Anna Klena Benjamin McCartney Katie Mussett our town flourish, I will. may end. ward to in the future. meant to me. William Gairloch Robert Harvey Ahleah Krout Carson McChesney John Nastase ted to use their pictures Page/13487 Haley Gardner Matthew Heggenstaller Cooper Lachat Clayton McClelland Morgan Nichols for publication To see more senior spotlights, visit this link: www.basd.net/Page/15044 3 / ISSUE NO. 45 BASD.NET / 4 HIGH SCHOOL Transition to High School When Brayson Holderman walked into Bellefonte Area resume and learned about general job-specific skills such High School business teacher Ryan Myers’ class, she was as confidence, demeanor, what to wear, when to give a dressed in business attire and appeared prepared for a job handshake and more. Much of the interview preparation interview as a physician and general surgeon at WellStar focused on SARB – situation, action, result and benefit. Health System based in Atlanta. Virtual walking tour “It’s really trying to get them to tell stories when they’re Matt Maris, a social studies teach- With help from Ellen Matis of nity’s history into the classroom. The then-freshman wasn’t actually in a real-life situation. answering questions,” Myers said. “Without instruction, Instead, she was among a group of eight students in Myers’ many students will give a very general answer. What er at Bellefonte Area High School, Downtown Bellefonte Inc., who The walking tours are made possi- Transition to High School class who participated in a mock should also come with that is an example that helps get to found a way to engage the commu- videoed the tour, Maris took to the ble through a partnership with the interview process with school and community business know them.” nity in a historic tour of downtown relatively vacant streets of Bellefonte Centre County Library and Histori- leaders brought in to ask students a series of questions. Bellefonte that allowed people to to explain its history to online view- cal Museum, where Maris interned The class, which is a one-marking-period elective, is see it right from the comfort of ers through Facebook Live. while obtaining his master’s degree It’s something students in fellow business teacher Andrew aimed at providing students with soft skills and job read- Weigold’s class also participated in, and were graded on iness preparation, and also allows students to search for their own homes. It came at a time in history from Arizona State. Fellow appearance and poise, and skill presentation. jobs, map out a high school plan and set goals. when officials suggested that resi- Walking tours were something he high school social studies teacher dents practice distancing during the created last year as part of profes- Chris Morris also often helps guide “I think the job interviews at this age have two important Professional interviewers state-mandated school closure and sional learning-type activities among the tours. benefits,” Myers said. “The first is just to get some practice, • Stephanie Fost, executive director for Habitat for general stay-at-home order due to staff at Bellefonte Area School Dis- so they know what to say and how to answer questions Humanity of Greater Centre County with detailed answers. The second benefit that I try to • Elaine Jerez, recruiter at Foxdale Village retirement the global COVID-19 pandemic, also trict. It also came with a mission to See more about the walking tours, hammer home is for them to see what experiences they community known as novel coronavirus. bring new knowledge of the commu- here: www.basd.net/Page/14457 don’t have and know that high school is a good opportuni- • Brit Milazzo, public relations director at Bellefonte ty to fill those holes in their personal experiences.” Area School District • Ryan Myers, high school business teacher QUESTION AND ANSWER To prepare for the final interview, students created a • Arlin Roth, instructional technology specialist at BASD Question: via Facebook Live. We collaborated to goal is to help individuals make authen- beginning the spring of their sophomore year and lasting through one year after graduation. The program includes What did help bring some virtual history to folks tic connections with local history, so CareerLink assessment and interest inventories, creating goals, the tour during this challenging period of social this was a little challenging because I Since 2015, Bellefonte Area High School has partnered participating in work-based learning, resume and include? distancing. couldn’t get to all the questions. Howev- with CareerLink to help provide students with the interviewing training, soft skill development and more. er, this online format made it accessible opportunity to better navigate career exploration. Through Answer: Q: What was the response like? to more people. several programs, eligible students can regularly work CareerLink Academy This virtual with high school teacher and district Transition Coordinator tour featured A: It was incredible. I think around 184 Q: What are some of your favorite Rachael Davis and CareerLink representatives to help Open to all students and staff, the Pennsylvania CareerLink some histori- people joined the virtual tour. Lots of historical facts about Bellefonte? them determine the direction of their futures. Academy is a 10-part series aimed at helping students make cal highlights positive comments and great questions. more informed post-graduation plans through understanding skills and abilities, learning about local career opportunities of Alleghe- I love this community. I know some of A: There is so much I love about Belle- Programs through CareerLink include Bridges to the Future and the Pennsylvania CareerLink Academy. and setting goals through a pathway plan. It also offers ny and High streets, making our way my students watched it, as well, which fonte’s history. Right now, I’m doing a professional development-type training for teachers. down from the Bellefonte Art Museum made me happy. lot of research for a Civil War-themed “The objective is to help them find a career path and what to the waterfront area. It was about tour in Bellefonte – in particular, the they’re interested in to help in their future, whether that’s This also translates into some classes at the high school an hour and covered some new sites I Q: What do you hope your students Soldiers and Sailors Memorial in front military, post-secondary (education) or the workforce,” that allows students to learn skills that make them employable, researched like Soldiers and Sailors Me- learned from it? of the courthouse. There are 20 bronze CareerLink Program Supervisor Derek Reber said. “Our such as projects business teacher Ryan Myers conducts morial, the former GC Murphy store, plates with over 3,800 names of goal is to help them identify that and further help them annually with his students. His Transition to High School Beezer Meat Market, Decker Motor A: I really want my students to appre- veterans from the Revolutionary War meet that goal upon graduation.” class aligns with goals of the CareerLink academy. (Company), and some Underground ciate what incredible local history we through the Spanish American War, Many CareerLink programs are made possible by the Railroad sites and stories. have right in our backyard. I hope my and mostly regiments from the Civil CareerLink will also work with that student for up a year after they graduate. Business Education Partnership grant through the passion for the Bellefonte area makes War. Each of those names is a life and state Department of Labor and Industry that allows Q: How did you get the opportunity them proud to live here and want to story, and I’ve had the opportunity to Bridges to the Future these programs to be brought to local high schools. to do this? learn more. Maybe this will help pre- learn about several. The Soldiers and Through the grant, it also allows teachers to coordinate serve the future of our community, too, Sailors and Curtin (Monument) memo- Through the Bridges to the Future program, CareerLink field trips through CareerLink with local businesses A: This was a collaboration between if more students and people value it. rials were dedicated in 1906. The com- works with about 25 students from Bald Eagle and Belle- for industry tours that help students learn more Downtown Bellefonte Inc., as well as mittee that organized it included Gens. fonte area high schools, but can take a caseload of up to 50 about their career interests. Bellefonte.com. The Facebook event Q: What was the biggest challenge James Beaver and George Atherton, students. A majority of those students are from Bellefonte To learn more, visit this link: www.basd.net/Page/14821 was also co-sponsored by Happy you faced doing it virtually? who was president of Penn State at the Area, Reber said. Staff and students interested in learning more may contact Davis at [email protected]. Valley Adventure Bureau. Downtown time. Atherton actually left Yale during According to information from CareerLink, Bridges to Bellefonte Inc. actually broadcasted it A: I really like the engagement of hav- the Civil War to volunteer, and served the Future is aimed at working with eligible students ing actual people in front of me. My in the Union army for a period of time. *Graphic provided by CareerLink and used with permission 5 / ISSUE NO. 45 BASD.NET / 6 Virtual HIGH SCHOOL Spirit Week PMEA District 4 Band Festival Band Director Caleb Rebarchak said students had the opportunity to work Social media sites such as Facebook teacher Andrew Weigold and students The most popular days, Weigold with Adam Brennan from Mansfield and Instagram were blowing up during from the school’s Yearbook Club, said, were pet day and red and white University and enjoyed making music the third week of the state-ordered which he oversees. day. And as a teacher, he added that with more than 160 other students from central Pennsylvania. school closure, with many Bellefonte being a part of something that keeps “(We) wanted to spread some school Area staff and students who posted him connected with students is themed photos of themselves. Some- spirit and get students involved from Student participants were Mykay- home,” Weigold said. important. times it included wearing pajamas; la Cole, Emily Confer, Mia Elmore, sometimes it was wearing a hat or World Language Linzy Fetterolf, Meredith Frey, Abby Theme days “It is important for them to know we Harper, Eddie Henry, Elizabeth tie-dye shirt; and sometimes pets were Monday: Bellefonte Area High School students • Pajama day are still here and that we care about Marchini, Keeli Pighetti, Matthew involved. • Tuesday: Tie-dye day participated in the Pennsylvania Mu- them,” Weigold said. “It isn’t just Week Uchneat and Ella Underwood. • Wednesday: Pet day sic Educators Association District 4 It was all part of an online spirit week • Thursday: Hat day about when we are in school or the Each year, the language department at Band Fest held at Penns Valley Area Students who qualified for regionals created by high school business • Friday: Red and white day grades. We invest our time in them.” Bellefonte Area High School celebrates High School. Among the group, five • Mykayla Cole: Horn 1, chair 2 World Language Week to expose students qualified for the Region 3 • Emily Confer: Flute 1, chair 3 students to different languages spoken Band Fest in March. That event was • Meredith Frey: Bass clarinet, chair 3 around the world. In its seventh year canceled due to the state shutdown • Keeli Pighetti: Clarinet 2, chair 2 at BAHS, WLW was celebrated the because of the COVID-19 pandemic. Apple Award first week of March. • Ella Underwood: Clarinet 3, chair 3 And this year, like each year before, *Photo provided by also boasted a new logo to recognize the about drug and alcohol abuse with Chris Morelli, Lock “Vicky is a light in our school,” Poorman said. “She sees week. Katie Musset, a member of the national and local statistics, and aims Haven Express and helps so many students in our school. Her office is Class of 2020 and Advanced Placement Slay the Dragon to combat myths and misconceptions. never slow, and it’s not just students – we teachers are Spanish, created the logo. She was also needy. She will help us all with a smile on her face. Vicky treasurer of Spanish Honor Society. The high school team competed is a busy lady, but is always willing to help others. I can’t against three teams from different think of a better, more deserving person of this award, Spanish teacher Emily Zimdahl-Mc- schools and placed first. A team from because she is so selfless and means so much to our Manus said all students who partici- Bellefonte Area Middle School placed school.” pated in language classes at the high second in the competition. school were encouraged to submit designs that paralleled the national The award was given to Confer through the state chapter “They studied hard to memorize theme. Students then voted and a On any give school day, if you walk into Vicky Confer’s of the National Network of State Teachers of the Year their questions and rocked it at the winning design was selected that was competition,” Duckworth said. “Over office at Bellefonte Area High School, it’s busy. The longtime program. It’s presented annually to teachers, educators, printed on a T-shirt. high school office clerk is in charge of helping students and coaches and other support staff for their educational the three games the BAHS students For the third consecutive year, a team staff with daily needs and maintaining various administra- excellence and making a positive difference in the lives of participated in, they only missed a This week was an extension of Discov- of students from Bellefonte Area High tive duties such as discipline records, parking passes, lockers, staff, students and the community. handful of questions. These kiddos er Languages Month, held in February, School was Slay the Dragon champions. deliveries, resetting passwords, and monitoring security worked hard and were very excited where Spanish Honor Society students The annual trivia-style competition, promoted different languages. to hoist the trophy for another year.” cameras and distributing van keys for field trips, and more. Poorman was a finalist for the 2019 Pennsylvania Teach- sponsored by the Youth Service Bu- er of the Year honor, which she was then eligible to reau, was hosted at Nittany Mall. Teams from Mount Nittany Middle Her hard work, dedication to helping make the school a bet- nominate someone else for the Apple Award. To learn more about National Foreign Language Week, visit this link: School and Our Lady of Victory ter place, and going above and beyond to work with students www.amgnational.org/national-for- Secondary math coach and team Catholic School also participated. and staff in need are just a few of the many reasons why “It’s an honor to receive this award and a privilege to be eign-language-week.html. At BAHS, adviser Melissa Duckworth said Confer is an Apple Award recipient. chosen,” Confer humbly said. the week is called World Language students who participate are given Team members Week to respect the proper vernacular 140 questions that they must re- • Caitlyn Bechdel • Carlee Bechdel She was nominated by high school agriculture teacher Confer has worked for Bellefonte Area School District since of what a group of languages other search from a list of sources provided than English are called within the • Hana Rados • Regan Roan Myken Poorman. 1998, and has been in her current position since 2003. by YSB. The questions address facts commonwealth. • Rilie Roan 7 / ISSUE NO. 45 BASD.NET / 8 Youth author SYNOPSIS *Provided by ReadyAimWrite Publishing and MIDDLE SCHOOL Daniel Weaver used with permission Infinite knowledge, the ability to When Daniel was the winner. Daniel control time — some forbidden Weaver “First of all, when I heard I was in the gifts are too dangerous for any Charlie “The Spaniard” Brenneman got to top 5, I was like, ‘are you sure you got single human. What would you writing the right person?’” Daniel said with a do with ultimate power and no Charlie “The Spaniard” Brenneman visited Bellefonte also speak, and I have his book, laugh. “That was amazing. Out of that consequences? he tapped many people he chose me.” Area Middle School. Once a UFC fighter, and now a a story.’ into the minds of the characters to motivational speaker, the Hollidaysburg native said he tell the story “Found by Time” that With help and some direction from Anthony is just like any other aims to show youth the positive effects of kindness, Q: What are your messages about? helped create their journey from sixth-grade English teacher Sam Hub- college kid, until a strange dream compassion, hard work and perseverance. During his beginning to end. ley, Daniel said he began writing during and even stranger legend sends visit, he also shared a fun fact with faculty, staff and A: Especially with middle and high school kids, kindness and the summer – something he explained him and his friend Isaiah on a students about his connection to Bellefonte Area School empathy are huge. It’s like a universal value and principal “Found by Time” is a book the now was “more difficult” than he thought it District – it was the place he was first offered a teaching that’s a virtue. Couple that with hard work and perseverance. eighth-grader wrote last summer would be. scouting trip into the woods. position at after graduating from Lock Haven University, I use my personal story – a lot of cool things, but all those cool between his sixth- and seventh-grade But when the boys find what but instead accepted a job to teach Spanish at his home things have like five heartbreaking, uncool things to go with it, years. It was later published by Ready- “I give so much respect for those people they’re looking for and this school district and alma mater in Hollidaysburg. so I share the ups and downs (and) positive choices. To me I AimWrite Kids, a branch of the Harris- who write hundreds of pages,” he said. “legend” proves all too real, burg-based company ReadyAimWrite “It takes so much effort and time, and (also) love reading books. It’s one of my favorite things in the unexpected things start to Publishing, owned by author Stephen when I was writing, I thought it was Question: How did you go from teacher to UFC fighter to world to do. We’re in a school, so I drive on if you’re having Kozan. tough, but had a lot of support and just happen…and Anthony and Isaiah motivational speaker? these problems or thoughts and disbeliefs and fears in your began coming up with ideas as I was are changed forever. mind, then books are a huge way I get through those things This makes Daniel the second typing.” Answer: I was a wrestler my whole life and got really into and so can you. Bellefonte Area Middle School student When the boys realize the raw Spanish when I was in middle school, because I had an ex- to write and publish a book through His goal was to complete two chapters a potential of these untested change student stay with me, and thought Spanish teacher Q: What do you hope students get from your story? Kozan’s publishing company. In day until he was finished with the book, (or) wrestling coach (was my future). I was there (at Holli- 2018, Annie Cernuska, now also an and writing in 20-minute increments powers, they are forced to daysburg Area School District) for about a year, but I really A: I learn from a lot of different and successful authors, eighth-grader, wrote a book called, with 20 minutes breaks in between. He consider their own true natures. missed the root of wresting and competition and getting after speakers and people in general. A lot of people have black and “The Hunter Voyage.” submitted the final draft to Kozan and With these new abilities, they it, living a life of discipline and commitment. I oddly transi- white, one-two-three takeaways, but I want to touch their You can learn more about it, here: an editor just before school started in could help their fellow humans… www.basd.net/Page/14174 August. tioned into professional fighting, so I learned the skill sets. hearts. I want to connect with them as human beings, so the or cheat on their math exams. From there when my career was over, (I thought) ‘what am next time they think, ‘I can’t do this,’ they hear a sound bite. Calling it a “very interesting story,” “I was so happy the day I finished – I’ll Anthony and Isaiah must look I going to do (next)?’ Back home people would always ask a If they take like 10 seconds or a concept of just keep going… Daniel’s experience writing was one he never forget it,” Daniel said. “I was like, deep inside themselves and make bunch of questions, so I thought I’d write a book just to an- that’s why I do this stuff. said he wasn’t expecting, but came after ‘wow, that was really something.’ That a choice: Will they use their new swer the questions and (then) thought, ‘guys who write books *Photo by eighth-grade Kozan visited BAMS during the 2018-19 was quite a journey because I kept powers for mischief or for good? student Tyler Harter school year and presented what’s called thinking it was summer and I should be a Flash Fiction contest to the sixth- relaxing, but knew I had to do this and grade student body. The Flash Fiction get it done.” Soon, Anthony and Isaiah are contest allows students to submit work embarking on a magical journey to Kozan with the potential of being Despite the obstacles, Daniel said “ev- with an unlikely destination: time professionally published based on their erything about it” was a great experi- itself. They have a mission to ideas. More than 100 students partici- ence. pated. complete. They also have “The opportunity was a great life questions, and this time, they “In fifth-grade, that’s when Annie did moment for me, and just being able to want answers: it, but I didn’t because I kind of thought learn all the skills I learned from this that wasn’t for me,” Daniel, 13, said. with writing and managing time and Where did these powers come “Then last year I was like, ‘you know making deadline was totally worth it,” what? I have a couple ideas that might he said. from in the first place? Who is be cool. I probably won’t get it, but at behind the disembodied voice least I’ll try for it,’ and I did.” Anthony keeps hearing? What perils will befall the boys on their Kozan selected a short story that journey through time? Can they Daniel wrote as one of the five finalists. The group was then asked to further brave the dangers and political expand their ideas with a 150-word intrigue of this new world…or will synopsis, and Kozan selected just one they be lost in time forever? as the winner with the opportunity for that student to write and publish a book based on that idea. 9 / ISSUE NO. 45 BASD.NET / 10 BELLEFONTE AREA SCHOOL DISTRICT • 2020-2021 SCHOOL CALENDAR

Zoom team photo Bellefonte Area Middle School track and field coaches Patrick McDermott, Brit Milazzo and Chad Wiler were only two weeks into practice with their 37-member team when they heard the news that school would be closed due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

At the time, the governor’s orders were for just two “It (was) nice to weeks. So, McDermott, a school counselor at Pleasant Gap see them and catch up and have some Elementary School who works with the team’s throwers, laughs.” made the decision to hold regular meetings with the team via the Zoom video platform. They met twice and provid- Their Zoom meetings averaged about 32 team members ed the student athletes with weekly optional workouts to each week. keep the team in shape, so when the season resumed it wouldn’t feel like they skipped a beat. In April, the coaches decided that if a physical team picture wasn’t an option, then they’d create one the best they could And then news came that school would be closed another by virtual means instead, and set the April 23-meeting as two weeks and then another two weeks after that and one where students could wear their track uniforms and then a final closure order by the state through the end of smile for a team photo while Milazzo took a screenshot the school year. The PIAA, Pennsylvania Interscholastic on her computer. This was made possible with help from Athletic Association, followed the governor’s guidance district instructional technology specialist Arlin Roth who and mandated that all sports seasons also cancel. provided instructions for how to capture the image via the Snip and Sketch app. Information about the optional activity Teams were not allowed to physically meet nor were was relayed to families before the meeting. coaches allowed to ask for students to do required training, but the program still held its Thursday-night Zoom meet- It included 22 members of the junior high track and field ings as a way to keep in touch with the kids willing to join team. Many student athletes could not join due to inter- — something members of the team said they enjoyed. net connection issues, but some sent individual photos of themselves wearing a Bellefonte track pinnie. That was “We’re still a team even if the stay-at-home order separates sent to members of the team, along with BAMS teacher us,” said Milazzo, an administrator with the district who and yearbook adviser Dave Gregor, who included it in the primarily works with the team’s jumpers and sprinters. end-of-year slideshow to recognize the school year. “Hello, BAMS!” While school was physically closed *In technology education and To see the videos, visit the in the spring due to the governor’s engineering teacher Jordan orders as a way to limit the spread of BAMS Facebook page Eccher’s video, he encourages or click on the “video” link students to find the positives in novel coronavirus, faculty and staff the situation and to try some- were still strong in their efforts to in the “school news” thing new, along with busting connect daily with students to provide tab of the district’s website, a few “not-so-sweet” dance a variety of services and supports. www.basd.net. moves.

At Bellefonte Area Middle School, faculty and staff took videos of them- selves sending messages of encour- agement – and entertainment – to students who they couldn’t be with the remainder of the school year. Those clips were sent to the school’s Vice Principal Mike Baugh- man, who created “Hello, BAMS!” videos just about every day. The goal was to spread positive messages to students and their families during a time that was stressful for many.

11 / ISSUE NO. 45 BASD.NET / 12 ELEMENTARY SCHOOLS

Shoe donations *Photo from spring 2019 For Joey Gearhart, the season of giv- purchased 10 pair of sneakers at Dick’s Sporting Goods to *Photos taken spring 2019 ing goes beyond the holidays. It just so donate to Pleasant Gap. Klein said Saylor was his mentor happens, however, that he started a shoe Wax Museum when he began teaching in 1995. collection drive just before Thanksgiving “I realized on that day that I should do that for my school When students enter fourth grade Memorial to donate to the nurse’s office at Mari- for kids who need them,” Joey said. “Then people started at Bellefonte Elementary School, Steve Klein has roots that run deep at “Thinking about her now still makes on-Walker Elementary School that could donating money and stuff.” they get the chance to be a part of Bellefonte Elementary School. It’s one me wishy-washy,” Klein said about benefit other students in the building. an annual class project that puts of the reasons he takes his fourth- his emotions. “I have a connection By the middle of December, more than $200 was raised. them in character of someone more grade class outside at the end of each with this building that runs deep and At the time, Joey was a fifth-grade By the new year, more than $1,100 was raised – and famous. The project is called the school year to help maintain the I thought I need to do something to student in Chris Cipro’s class and that number climbed. He collected more than $2,400 by Wax Museum and has been a grounds around the school’s memorial. maintain this. We do it now because said he came up with the idea in March. staple at the school since the It was created in memory of four indi- it’s the right thing.” the fall after he heard some- 2014-15 school year. This spring’s viduals with connections to the school. one made a $100 dona- Before spring, Joey was able to use the money to buy new project, however, was canceled due He’s been participating in the proj- tion to Pleasant Gap shoes – a total of 150 sneakers and a pair of work boots to the state-ordered school closure His classes spend time weeding the ect with his class for more than 20 Elementary School – and donate them to Marion-Walker and other schools during the COVID-19 pandemic. area and then laying mulch around years. The class activity this year, where his father, within Bellefonte Area School District. The work boots the memorials that recognize former however, was canceled in the spring Adam Gearhart, were given to a student at Central Pennsylvania Institute Teacher Lauren Whitman said second-grade teacher Deborah Say- due to the state-mandated school teaches fifth of Science and Technology where his mother is the early during English and language arts lor, former fifth-grade teacher Jean closure due to the COVID-19 pan- grade. childhood education instructor. He also made donations to classes, students are able to select a White, former first-grade student demic. The school’s maintenance and With other local districts including Bald Eagle Area, Keystone person to research – likely a historical Grant Bodle and former Principal Ott grounds crew, on the other hand, that Central and Philipsburg-Osceola. figure. They’re tasked with writing Kantner. Students in Lauren Whit- made sure landscaping efforts were dona- a biography about the person they man’s fourth-grade class also help completed with mulching, weeding tion, “It feels really good to give back,” Joey said. “There are kids selected to become experts on and with the mulching process. and more. they in the world that don’t get stuff, but they deserve it.” then create scrips for the final Wax Museum project at the end of the lesson that also comes at the end of the school year. Sensory walk Poster contest Staged around the auditorium at A sensory walk is new to Pleasant Bellefonte Elementary, students dress Gap Elementary School. It was cre- as their figure with props at their site. ated in the 2019-20 school year by Frozen still, they become activated music teacher Jessica Cetnar. when a guest presses a button. Once According to learning support teach- triggered, the student gives a speech er Kate Kohler, the space-themed about who they’re representing. sensory walk allows students to teacher Holly Students and staff, in addition to move around and help regulate their family members of the fourth- Williams emotions. There is also a section graders, are invited to the event. added that where participating students can it’s also a “It’s definitely an exciting project,” move their hands up a wall, which good way Whitman said. “The kids are encourages stretching. for stu- Three upcoming sixth-grade students from Bellefonte the county. With a theme “Feeding our Friends,” 16 post- motivated to do it because they’ve dents to work on gross Area School District have artwork featured in the 2020 ers were selected – among “hundreds” of entries, accord- chosen the person they want to “We use it as a break activity for our motor skills by jumping, tiptoeing calendar by the Centre County Recycling and Refuse ing to CCRRA education coordinator Amy Schirf. research and they’re interested in kids at school if they need help reg- and spinning through the motions, Authority, including the calendar cover by Riley Santos- them in one way or another.” ulating their bodies (and emotions) in addition to enhancing spatial tefano, who attended Pleasant Gap Elementary School at Winners and just an integral break as part of the time of the contest. • Emma Burger • Chloe Hartswick • Riley Santostefano The figures include athletes, relationship skills that some stu- their day,” she said. Honorable mentions astronauts, historical figures, actors dents work on through occupational CCRRA teamed up with Weis Markets last year to hold its • Maya Patel • Hailey Vinnedge • Alyssa Weiss and more. therapy and other support services annual poster contest open to all fifth-grade students in Autistic and emotional support provided by the school. 13 / ISSUE NO. 45 BASD.NET / 14 GRADUATE SPOTLIGHT

*Photos provided by Rider Connecting with students Biological sciences Just about any teacher at Nick Downs used a combination of ings, so my grade-level partner and When Sierra Rider was in Andy biology and had several classes with the Bellefonte Area School email, Google Classroom, Google I, along with our student teachers, Caruso’s eighth-grade science class, she (student) speakers.” District will say how Meet and Zoom video applications to (hosted) two meetings a week.” didn’t know what her future held much they missed their touch base with students, beyond on- professionally. Fast-forward about Rider, a member of the Bellefonte Area “kids” this spring. By line education through the distance Covone held Zoom meetings on Thurs- eight years and she had the opportunity Class of 2016, graduated in Decem- “kids,” they mean the stu- learning program. In fifth-grade days, while Downs hosted it on Tuesdays. to go back to Bellefonte Area Middle ber from Lock Haven with a major in dents in their classes that across the district, students work they taught throughout with multiple grade-level teachers “It’s been very positive,” Covone add- School to work with Caruso and Jim biology and minor in environmental the school year. on curriculum. At Benner, Covone ed. “I feel like parents know we’re still Nye’s sciences classes to speak with sustainability. She spoke to middle teaches math, science and social working to reach kids and parents, students about what her biology school students about her research that And like most other studies, while Downs teaches English and some have even reached out to research included during her took her to Vermillion, South Dakota, teachers, those at Benner and language arts. tell me how appreciative they are.” undergraduate studies at Lock Haven for 10 weeks last summer. She said it Elementary School University. It’s one that took her on a was funded through a National Science worked daily to connect “My favorite way to connect is And while school was physically journey across the country. Foundation grant that allowed her to with students when Zoom,” Covone said. “I had about 75 closed, when asked what teachers study the impacts of invasive tree spe- Gov. Tom Wolf issued a mandatory percent of the two fifth-grade classes missed most about not being with She was among three students from cies and the breed success of birds that closure of all schools in the common- attend. It was so great to see the kids students, Covone said, “Two things – a the university who stopped by the were nesting along the Missouri River. wealth due to the COVID-19 pandemic. that I started to tear up when they sense of normalcy and routine for not school to interact with the students. started popping into the meeting. only the kids, but for all the district With Benner Elementary fifth-grade They loved it and even asked how staff, and just being with the kids and The others were Olyvea Welch and “Birds like cottonwood trees, but since it classes, teachers Laura Covone and often I would be having the meet- my coworkers. I miss them all.” fellow Bellefonte Area High School is flooding because of the dams, the cot- grad Zachery Stephens. Welch, a tonwoods aren’t able to reproduce, which Central Mountain High School alumna, means they’re dying or too immature to graduated in December with a degree support a bird’s nest,” Rider said. “The QUESTION AND ANSWER focused on microbiology. birds are (instead) selecting Russian olive trees, which are Other teachers at Benner Elemen- during this school closure. I (also) had Kimberly Rosenberger, really invasive to the state. We looked to see if it provided a tary School took time to answer Zoom meetings with my students. We kindergarten teacher Stephens, a BAHS Class of 2015 better or worse (habitat) for the birds.” questions about the closure and how were all very excited and happy to see alumnus, graduated from Lock they stayed in touch with students each other. The students shared what Q: What words of Haven in May with degrees in biology Each year varied, she said. and families. they had been doing at home. It was advice did you have and chemistry. His research included comforting to see their smiley faces and for families during this general protein studies of mole- Rider also said she conducted other undergraduate re- Lata Anantheswaran, be able to talk with them. break? cules responsible for the propa- search on the impacts of an unused reservoir on brook second-grade teacher gation of trout populations in Harveys Run in Castanea, Clinton Nicole Harris, A: I would tell parents and students Question: Like many second-grade teacher that this is a rare opportunity to spend prostate cancer and its genesis County. There, she said, is a dam with two tributaries that teachers, you took the a lot of time together as a family and in fruit flies. His undergrad- feed into it. Rider’s work looked at temperatures of the time to connect with Q: What did you miss not to waste it or ruin it by stressing uate research led him on a water with stats collected every hour of every day from the students. You indicat- most about not being out. I would tell them to enjoy being fellowship at SUNY Upstate two tributaries. ed it’s something you enjoy. Do you in school? together doing simple, everyday things Medical University in Syracuse, N.Y. Future plans include see they appreciate it, as well? like reading together, playing games continuing education at the University of Virginia to With her research, Rider plans to pursue graduate studies A: Where do I begin? together, going outside and enjoying obtain a Ph.D. in biomedical sciences. at Bucknell University on full grant funding, and hopes Answer: I have had positive responses Since not everyone was able (to) join nature together. I would advise them to continue her research work for the Department of from parents. Parents shared with me our Zoom chats, I missed seeing them. to come up with some kind of daily The eighth-grade science class lesson was spearheaded by Environmental Protection or Environmental Protentional that their child had a big smile when they I missed hearing their jokes, listening to schedule that works for everyone, so Nye as a way to expose students to the types of work Agency. talked with me over the phone! Every- their giggles and I missed teaching them. the expectations are clear for when scientists are involved in. one really appreciates all that we (tried) There’s something special about helping parents are free to interact and play, to do for the students at these uncertain children learn and seeing their faces and when they need to be busy doing “It’s important,” she said. “For what I do, it’s ecology based, times. I connected with my parents when they reach their ah-ha moments. work or other chores. Children are very “I wanted kids to learn how science is actually done and and with all the stuff about climate change, it’s important through Bloomz, a parent-teacher app While I missed seeing them succeed in adaptable and can usually cope pretty how research works, and to observe successful Bellefonte to understand what we’re doing and how we can reverse or – posted announcements that included the classroom, I know they’re learning well when they know what to expect. graduates involved in scientific studies,” Nye said. “I was able how we can find alternative means to fix what we’re doing. educational resources in math, En- to succeed in different areas of life – at A daily schedule with familiar routines to set this up because of my recent sabbatical at Lock Haven It’s a chain – trophic cascade. When you take something glish-language arts, science and social the very minimum, they’re learning and clear expectations can help them University where I earned a (Bachelor of Science) degree in out of the food change that can affect everything else.” studies that their children could use love, patience and cooperation. feel safe and secure, despite all the un- certainty going on around them. 15 / ISSUE NO. 45 BASD.NET / 16 Kelly McManus: Eighth-grade math teacher, Bellefonte Area Middle School

At one time, Kelly McManus believed he’d be in the computer science field. That was until he realized just how “awful” he said it was being at a computer regularly for eight hours straight. He added that the brief time he spent in the insurance industry after graduat- EMPLOYEE SPOTLIGHT ing from Penn State “trumped sitting in front of a computer” for that long.

With a new plan for his future that was realized sometime after his junior year in college, the now longtime teacher is heading into his 16th year in eighth-grade math at Bellefonte Area Middle School. It’s where he’s spent all of his professional teaching career.

“One thing I can say about teaching is that it’s not dull at all,” McManus said. “The biggest appeal is that it’s new every day, and my Employee Spotlight randomly features faculty and staff from Bellefonte Area School District. Organized by district Public Relations Director approach is all about consistency with the kids, so they know what to expect and keep them engaged and moving forward.” Brit Milazzo, in partnership with the human resources department, the goal is to promote the people who make the district what it is. Each season, an employee from the district’s administration, professional staff and support staff are randomly chosen for the feature. McManus received his undergraduate degree in math from Penn State, and master’s degree and teaching certificate from Bloomsburg University.

You may find more features, here: www.basd.net/Page/14058 Known around school to many students as the “cool” teacher, McManus, said he prides himself on a mix of learning, while having fun and getting to know the students on a personal level.

“I would definitely say that trying to connect with the kids and find out what their interests are is important,” he said. “I kind of pride myself on remembering Jennifer Brown: Principal, Bellefonte Elementary School those things very well and having those personal connections with them throughout the year.”

Some people spend a majority of their lives searching for their calling. For Jennifer Brown, principal at Bellefonte Elementary School, Outside of school, McManus said he’s the handyman at home doing his part to finish home improvement and woodworking projects. He also said he enjoys she knew education was it since she was a kid. boating with his family at Bald Eagle State Park and on the Niagara River near Buffalo where his wife, Emily, was raised. She is also a teacher in the district – Spanish at Bellefonte Area High School. They have two children – a daughter heading into first grade at Bellefonte Elementary School and a 4-year-old son. “I don’t even know what I would do if I wasn’t here,” Brown said. “I can’t imagine doing anything else with my life.”

Her interest in education and teaching came when she was in grade school. Brown said she often gravitated to students in her class- es who struggled, and made it a mission to help them. Trevor Montgomery: Third-grade teacher, Pleasant Gap Elementary School

“I had this love of the underdog and that’s why I wanted to be a teacher,” she said. “I wanted to make all kids feel good and show them In high school, Trevor Montgomery was the kind kid others looked up to. As a student-athlete and someone who enjoyed coaching, they’re better then they may think, and now I want each kid to experience success and that same goodness.” the third-grade teacher at Pleasant Gap Elementary School said because of that, teaching just fell into place.

Heading into her fourth year as principal of the downtown-Bellefonte school, Brown has been with Bellefonte Area School District for 21 years, including 14 “I did a lot of helping out with different sports programs and working with little kids, and I really enjoyed that,” he said. “I think I years in administration. After graduating from Lock Haven University with a degree in special education, she landed a job at Bellefonte Area High School, always had this vision in my head that it would be kind of cool to be a teacher. That’s what steered me toward this path.” where she also graduated from a few years before. Also, a father of two young children and husband to a fellow elementary teacher at Bellefonte Area School District, education is something he often brings home – his 3-year-old daughter Kennedy, he said, “loves to play school.” There, she was primarily an emotional and learning support teacher, before becoming the department head. When she obtained her master’s degree from Penn State, Brown moved her way up the principalship rankings – first as the vice principal at Bellefonte Area middle and high schools, and then principal at “She’s really into it – playing with us and her baby dolls – and I think she understands that we’re teachers,” he said. “She’ll say things the high school. About four years ago, she transferred to Bellefonte Elementary on West Linn Street. like ‘see you after school’.”

Calling her role “the cheerleader for the building,” Brown said her position as principal includes acting as the instructional leader of the school, and also pro- Montgomery, a native of Bethlehem, graduated from Lock Haven University in 2011 with degrees in elementary and special education. He and his wife, Kacie viding support to students, teachers and other staff members with resources they need to succeed. Montgomery, then got married and began looking for teaching jobs. Kacie is a first-grade teacher at Benner Elementary School.

“The single most important thing is making relationships – the intangible things that can’t be taught in the classroom,” she said. “The rapport you have with This school year, Montgomery has been working with student teachers from Penn State. For them, and all students aspiring to become teachers, the best colleagues and students is crucial. If we don’t have that, then we don’t have (anything).” advice he has is to “always do what’s best for the kids.”

Brown attributes some of her education style and success to mentors in her life, such as former high school teacher Steve McCulley who she described as “Think about your kids and your class, and what’s the best way to deliver the content,” Montgomery said. “It’s OK to modify or change something to make it “kind and understanding, yet structured with high expectations.” appropriate for them. You’ll learn you sometimes have to adapt or change things because kids learn differently, and that’s OK.”

Now, she walks into school experiencing something rewarding just about every day, including watching students achieve their highest level of success. Time management and organization are also tips he has to be successful in education.

Montgomery has coached with the girls’ basketball teams at Bellefonte Area High School and with the boys’ basketball program at the middle school. While he’s not coaching anymore, due to spending more time with his family and baby boy Everett born in December, Montgomery said he still enjoys playing and Kim Dombek: Building secretary, Bellefonte Elementary School watching basketball. He also said he enjoys spending time with family, being outdoors and taking summer vacations at Surfside Beach, South Carolina.

Kim Dombek, building secretary at Bellefonte Elementary School, is the kind of person who likes being social. She said one of the things she appreciates most about her job is that it brings something new every day with a group of students and colleagues she enjoys being with. Judy Ripka: Secretary to the principal, Bellefonte Area High School

And that’s why during the state-mandated school closure due to the COVID-19 pandemic, she found herself missing it – a lot. When asked what the most important thing is in Judy Ripka’s life, she immediately said her family. When asked what some of her favorite activities are, she enthusiastically said spending time with her grandchildren. Luckily, she added, she did her best to stay busy by volunteering to hand out food at the YMCA in Bellefonte that served as one of the free meal sites for community members. They might not have recognized her in a hat and facemask, but she said there was joy in The proud grandma of five – and one on the way in July – is a longtime employee of Bellefonte Area School District having worked seeing the kids there that she normally would have seen in school every day. from 1999 to 2017 as the accounts payable clerk at the district’s central office before transferring about four years ago to Bellefonte Area High School as a secretary in the main office. Prior to fulltime work at the district, she was also a substitute working in the “I really missed working,” Dombek said. “I missed seeing the students and (being) in the routine. You go to work and it’s never a boring day at an elementary school.” cafeteria, as a paraeducator, in the life skills classrooms, with the custodial staff and more.

Dombek started working at Bellefonte Elementary more than 20 years ago after taking a 12-year hiatus from work to take care of her family. She first began Ripka said the wide range of jobs has helped prepare her the past few years in one that presents something new just about every day. substituting at schools within Bellefonte Area School District, before getting hired at Bellefonte Elementary School – first as a cafeteria aide, then at a job in the kitchen, followed by a position as attendance clerk and now her current job, which she’s held for more than 10 years. “It’s neat getting to know the kids,” she said. “The teachers, too – I love the teachers here. Every day is different, which keeps things going.”

“It’s good to know what other people’s jobs are so you have a little bit more empathy and understanding,” she said. Her regular daily job duties include working with accounts for teachers, helping teachers purchase things that benefit curriculum, helping organize grad- uation, monitoring the lost-and-found, working with stocking and inventory of the supply closet, posting information on the marquee at the high school, A day in her life includes day-to-day responsibilities that help the school’s principal and professional staff with what they need. In addition to daily clerical du- scheduling meetings and more. Growing up, graduating from and working at Bellefonte Area has given Ripka a special appreciation for the district, which she ties, she maintains student files, helps with kindergarten registration, checks absences and makes sure all class vacancies are filled. Dombek is also a member described as “close-knit” and “like family.” of the school’s Crisis Team and district’s Safety Committee. But as much as she enjoys the daily work grind, nothing is more valuable to her than family. Cooking and baking are other activities she said she enjoys, The State College native has been living in the Bellefonte area with her husband and two daughters for more than 35 years. Now grown, Dombek said her which also brings the family together for events such as weekly Sunday dinner – and, of course, dessert. daughters live in Florida and Washington State where she regularly visits. She also enjoys cooking, trying new recipes and using seasonal vegetables from her garden to make meals, in addition to actively being outdoors and walking nature trails at places such as Bald Eagle State Park. Ripka, a Pleasant Gap native, also enjoys being active and outdoors, going to the Centre County Grange Encampment and Fair, and taking care of her family’s 80-acre farm in the Penns Valley Region of Centre County. 17 / ISSUE NO. 45 BASD.NET / 18 Elementary DISTRICT HAPPENINGS building project

*Logo provided by the College Board AP District Honor Roll 2009: A feasibility study was conducted by Hayes 2009 Large Architects. This was an evaluation of district Bellefonte Area School District was placed on the College October 2011: The Bellefonte Area school board To get the honor, districts must have followed these buildings, including elementary schools. However, approved the $4.5 million purchase of 107.57 acres Board’s 10th annual Advanced Placement District Honor requirements the company didn’t look at equity, nor how edu- of land behind the high school, with the intent of Roll for what they said is proven “significant gains in stu- cation could look in a new or renovated structure. building school facilities on that land. dent access and success.” The district is among 250 other *Information provided by the College Board The plan was nixed by the school board after a school districts from North America that were honored. masterplan projection was reportedly too costly for • Increase participation and/or access to AP by at the district. 2011 least 4 percent in large districts, at least 6 percent According to a report from the College Board, the district Fall 2019: The board and district focused on a plan in medium districts and at least 11 percent in small was required to show an increase in the number of stu- that best met district needs in a way that limited districts. dents participating in AP programs, while also increasing Feb. 23, 2016: Crabtree, Rohrbaugh and Associates conflict of interest with third parties involved. or maintaining the percentage of students earning AP was hired for $12,500 to conduct a feasibility study Through its original request for proposal, the • Increase or maintain the percentage of American board realized they wanted to instead separate exam scores of a 3 or higher. Reaching these goals, the re- of the elementary buildings. Final results of the Indian or Alaska native, black or African American, processes leading to construction and/or renova- port added, shows that the district is successfully identi- study were presented publicly in 2017, which Hispanic or Latino, and native Hawaiian or other showed the firm carried out its survey under the 2016 tions by: fying motivated and academically-prepared students who Pacific Islander students taking exams and in- assumption facilities would be replaced on a one-to- are ready for AP. creased or maintained the percentage of American one basis, rather than identifying what enhance- 1) having an engineer firm that could survey the buildings and help determine a variety of needs, Indian or Alaska native, black or African American, ments needed to be made to improve education in a Bellefonte Area High School Principal Mike Fedisson said and then Hispanic or Latino, and native Hawaiian or other new space. It did, however, show existing buildings 184 high school students were enrolled in 24 AP classes were scored so poorly that the board decided to 2) hire an architect separately in the design phase Pacific Islander students scoring 3 or higher on at in the 2019-20 school year. limit spending on the schools and instead plan to to meet those needs. least one AP Exam. 2018 construct a new building, renovate existing build- “With more students participating and succeeding in AP ings or a combination of options. In that RFP, building design costs could be sup- • Improve or maintain performance levels when ported, but the district did not have a path for- in this district, more students are getting a head start comparing the 2018 percentage of students scoring ward to tell the designers how to go about doing it. on college by earning college credit during high school,” Having one company involved in both processes a 3 or higher to the 2017 percentage unless the 2018: The district consulted with Pennsylvania Trevor Packer said in a prepared statement. He’s the could have potentially created a conflict of interest district has already attained a performance level Financial Management to help the district look at senior vice president of AP and instruction at the Col- with a design created to suit the company’s needs at which more than 70 percent of its AP students financing options up to 10 years to fund an elemen- lege Board. “We are pleased to honor the teachers and 2019 rather than what works best for the district. earn a 3 or higher tary building project. administrators who have worked to clear a path for more students of all backgrounds to advance through AP.”

Feb. 25, 2020: With a vote of 6-3, the board with the district, board, committee and approved to retain Hunt, an architect 2020 community. To date, the board and School safety measures and engineering firm, to conduct a needs district are pleased with Hunt that went assessment for district elementary build- far beyond previous studies. They took Bellefonte Area School District has a priority to make sure staff and students are safe while in school. Much of the district’s ings. It came at a cost of $59,400. A needs well to communicate and facilitate public the time to understand equity, worked safety information is protected to avoid information that could be released and therefore may be detrimental to the safety assessment is the evaluation of a building’s meetings and options available. diligently with stakeholders and looked of school populations, as it could provide insight that enables a perpetrator to move more easily through the system. condition and space, to determine the re- at the project holistically. When their maining life of the facility and recommend April 2020: Hunt developed two educational process is done and the district feels like Publicly-shared safety and security procedures prior to further entrance of the building. Those upgrades to infrastructure and function space plan options based on evaluation results; it has enough information, a building guests are given a printed badge with their name that could best serve the district and com- meetings with the committee; and feedback option will be voted on. • ALICE protocol and training munity using it. It also looks at optimizing from principals, other staff and the public. and destination. utilization of existing buildings and bring Post 2020: Prior to the COVID-19 • ALICE – alert, lockdown, inform, counter, • Break-resistant safety film on the glass of school equity across the district. pandemic, if all went as planned, then evacuate – is an active shooter civilian response May 12, 2020: Hunt presented the educa- offices tional space plan options. Several podcasts opening a new building and/or finished used at the district and practiced by employees • Classroom doors that are closed and locked when March 24, 2020: The board announced unveiling information were conducted renovations would had been completed and students. students are present that a facilities committee was reestab- before, during and after this phase to provide by the fall of 2023. However, with the • Engage regularly in a variety of drills lished with about 20 members from the financial strain and other obstacles from • 50 additional two-way radios provided to staff, under information to the community directly from • Security cameras present on district grounds, and in board, community and school district. those involved. the impacts of novel coronavirus, it has district buildings and facilities a grant through Act 44 The goal of the committee is to assist delayed the intended timeline of possible • Read more, here: www.basd.net/Page/14415 Hunt in understanding concerns from Summer 2020: Hunt will continue work on construction, renovations and projected • Daily use of two school resource officers through different focus groups in the district, as opening. Bellefonte police • Lettered and numbered exterior doors of district the needs assessment and meet regularly • Locked and secure vestibules with a two-door entry buildings, for emergency services • Use of the SchoolGuard app system Options On the web • All doors to district building are locked with a • Used among district employees to push out 1. Rebuild Bellefonte Elementary School To learn more about the proposed elementary building project, single visitor access point that utilizes School information about an emergency or threat to 2. Combine Bellefonte and Benner elementary schools visit this link: www.basd.net/newelem. You can find the build- Gate Guardian to check in visitors. The check-in others in the building who use the app, and easily 3. Combine Bellefonte, Benner and Pleasant Gap elementary schools ing condition survey, a Q&A that includes answers to frequently system conducts a background check of the guest 4. Combine of all four elementary schools asked questions, provide community feedback, learn about the and automatically contacts authorities. 5. Build a new structure and renovate other schools. facilities committee, listen to podcasts and more. 19 / ISSUE NO. 45 BASD.NET / 20 The spring sports season was canceled by PIAA following orders from Gov. Tom Wolf due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Bellefonte Area School District would like to recognize student athletes from ATHLETICS the Class of 2020 who normally would have participated in spring sports.

Baseball Softball Track and field

State qualifiers Northwest Regional In April, PIAA announced Nick Catalano Taylor Kerr Mallorie Smith Alec Bossert Chelsea Robson all high school sports were champions 500th program win canceled for the remainder The 2019-20 wrestling team of the school year, follow- were named Northwest Lacrosse With a 54-30 win against ing the governor’s orders Regional champions for Philipsburg-Osceola on due to the COVID-19 pan- the first time since 2000. In James Franklin Jan. 22, the Bellefonte demic. That included win- addition, the season brought Area High School girls’ ter sports championships other highlights including Penn State football Coach basketball team, led by members placing at district that hadn’t yet taken place. James Franklin stopped first-year head coach championships and were by Bellefonte Area High Marcus Toomer, captured The swimming program well-represented at PIAA Shane Cronin Owen Christopher Phoebe Rowland School for a meet and its 500th program win. at Bellefonte Area High state finals. The team was greet with faculty and They ended the season School would have been also Mountain League team staff. He even took time to with a 10-13 record. Sarah represented by three of its champions for the third Tyler Benner Elizabeth Hargrove time in four years, and take photos and sign auto- DeHaas, a junior at the student athletes – Harry made team history for most graphs. The visit was part time, was also named a Horner, Finley Musser and second-team Mountain individual place winners at of a tour he participated in Kate Rarrick. See more the King of the Mountain League All-Star. with other school districts swimming highlights, tournament and Conesto- that serve Centre County. here: www.basd.net/ ga Valley Holiday Classic. Page/14993 This season’s overall record Gunner Fravel Tyler Cooke Amber Shirey 100 wins was 14-4, while maintain- 1,000 points Wrestler Alex Coppolo ing a second-quarter team nabbed his 100th career academic average of 88.23 Conner Bitner Vincent Lawrence Class of 2020 graduate win as part of percent. Five members were Ben McCartney is among the program also named Big 7 Wrestling at Bellefonte League All-Stars. See more six Bellefonte Area High Area High season wrestling high- School basketball players School. The lights, here: www.basd.net/ in history to score at least feat hap- Page/14989 1,000 points in a career. pened during He hit the mark on Feb. 5 the District CJ Funk Austin Craig Charles Theuer at a game 6 Class 3A College commits Natalie Book Jillian McKee against tournament • Julian Emel: Football, East where he Keystone College had a third- Gymnastics • Alex Coppolo: Wrestling, Juniata, Waynesburg University place finish The Bellefonte Area High and ended in the 132-pound weight • Mason Grey: Football, School gymnastics team with a category. He ended the Lock Haven University total of season with 105 career finished the season with a • Ben McCartney: 1,098 wins, which puts him 5-3 record. They qualified Basketball, Penn College among the top 13 wres- for the state meet in the • Keeli Pighetti: Golf, Mason Grey Demetri Butts John Nastase Nathan Long Katie Uchneat points. Bloomsburg University McCartney tlers in Bellefonte history. Bronze division and placed Coppolo also placed fourth • Madison Steiner: was also second with a score of Basketball, Mount in the Northwest Regional named a 125.991. Freshman Emma Aloysius College championship and was Matsko also qualified first-team named a Big 7 Wrestling *You may see more about Mountain League All-Star. See a list individually and placed additional student athletes who first on balance beam in signed letters of intent last fall in League of all-time wrestling win Issue 44 of Red Raider magazine All-Star. leaders, here: www.basd. the Bronze division with a or online in the “School News” net/Page/14992 score of 7.983. section of the district’s website. Dylan Young Linzy Fetterolf Sarah Tobin Logan Von Gunden 21 / ISSUE NO. 45 BASD.NET / 22 Professional learning ICAN TALK CLINIC When life skills students at with an assistive communication SPECIAL EDUCATION Bellefonte Area middle and high device and regularly works with schools participated in the annual the ICAN Talk Clinic of Pittsburgh chili cookoff, they used their aug- to assist students, staff and parents mentative and alternative com- with alternative communication Special education at Bellefonte Area munication devices to help them means. Training is also provided The 13 disability categories To learn more School District provides a compi- interact with each other and the for students, teachers, paraeduca- • Autism • Orthopedic impairment about special lation of services designed to meet At Bellefonte Area School District, patrons who were a part of it. They tors and parents. • Deaf and blindness • Other health impairment education at were required to go to the store, needs of students identified with Bellefonte Area employees are required to participate in • Deafness • Specific learning disability professional development-type train- buy ingredients, plan the meal, When a student is a candidate for disabilities. There are 13 disability • Emotional disturbance • Speech or language impairment School District, cook chili and hold a presentation. an assistive technology device, please visit this ing to help build knowledge and skills. categories, and students may receive • Hearing impairment • Traumatic brain injury At the district, it’s called professional representatives from the ICAN specific services based on needs • Intellectual disability • Visual impairment, including link: www.basd. The event was created as a way Talk Clinic meet with the involved net/Page/12777 learning that allows faculty to facilitate while they’re in public school. • Multiple disabilities blindness sessions for other employees. to promote activities based on parties; identify the students’ facilitating communication skills needs, strengths and communi- For those involved in special education, using the devices, which allows a cation gaps; and determine the it’s a way to further build understand- user to program vocabulary into appropriate device that should be STAFF PROFILES ing of the subject area, while providing it – including everyday words and used. Once that is established, the education to others. that more specific to activities and district purchases the device and To meet other special education Megan Douty: Learning Holly Williams: Autistic, events the student is participat- two-day training sessions staff members, visit this link: “The regulations and requirements ing in. Those with limited literacy are held four times an- www.basd.net/Page/14177 support teacher, Marion-Walker emotional and learning change constantly and we need to be skills can instead communicate us- nually to help individuals updated on those,” Special Education ing icons and images programmed gain more knowledge, Elementary School support teacher at Pleasant Director Gina MacFalls said. “It can into the device. skills and understanding Gap Elementary School also be highly litigious and we need to of the devices and com- Rachael Davis: Learning Hello! I’m the make sure we’re following things the To help students at Bellefonte Area munication fourth- and fifth- School District who have disabil- means used Hi! My name is way they need to be followed. It’s not support teacher, Bellefonte grade learning just working with pockets of special ities that prevent them from ver- by their support teacher Holly Williams bally communicating, the special stu- Area High School and I am a special ed – most (special ed) students are also at Marion-Walk- part of general education classes and education program provides them dents. er Elementary education teacher Hi! I’m Rachael at Pleasant Gap environments, so it’s pertinent for all Davis and I’m a School. I started working for Belle- teachers to learn about.” fonte Area School District in the fall Elementary School. learning support I attended college at Penn State teacher at Belle- of 2016. Prior to working in Bellefon- Paraeducators are required to have at least te, I taught fifth-grade learning sup- where I received my master’s degree SAFETY-CARE fonte Area High in special education with a focus on 20 hours of professional learning annual- port for four years at Mifflin County School and the autism, applied behavior analysis ly. Administrators and professional staff transition coordinator for the dis- School District. At Bellefonte Area School District, Director of Special Education and communication disorders. members who are a part of special edu- trict. I recently finished the Com- cation must also abide by Act 48, which staff members are used to facil- Gina MacFalls said the district petent Learner Model coaching I’m an alumna of Bellefonte, and my itate Safety-Care training with uses Safety-Care as the primary I started teaching at Bellefonte Area requires at least 180 credit hours during a program and now will be a CLM fifth-grade teacher, Mrs. Achuff, was five-year period to stay certified. other district employees who may technique that would best serve coach for the district, as well. School District in 2004, and current- my inspiration to become a teacher. ly provide autistic and emotional need to know the technique. Those the district with in-house train- I received a dual degree in elementa- I started at Bellefonte Area School support for K-5 students, and learn- Special education-based in-district trainers are teachers ers for easy management of staff ry and special education from Lock District in the fall of 2015 and ing support services for students professional learning includes: Anita Caruso, Erin Cernuska and certifications. Training is priori- Haven University because I truly have filled a variety of roles. Cur- in fourth and fifth grades. I’m also Erin Chapman, and special educa- tized by employees who need it believe that every student can learn; • Least restrictive environment: rently, as the transition coordina- certified as a CLM instructional tion secretary Macada Loner. most, starting with recertifications tor, I work with the Office of Voca- just not the same way or on the same coach and work closely with staff to Provides staff with an overview of and those who need to be initial- day. I absolutely love what I do and tional Rehabilitation, CareerLink, implement effective research-based the legalities regarding supports and ly trained. MacFalls said every ACRES, Skills and other service love learning new ways to help my services for students with disabilities Safety-Care is primarily a verbal strategies and tools to promote paraeducator in the district was providers to give students expo- students. in general education classrooms. de-escalation technique and set of productivity and independence trained, whether they worked sure to employment and education among our learners. Each student • Positive behavior support: Explains strategies teachers and other staff options after high school. with general or special education In 2015, I earned my master’s degree represents a unique combination the process of creating and imple- members can use to deescalate or menting a positive behavior support students. from Wilkes University as a PA read- of abilities and educational needs. calm down students when they Outside of work, I serve in the ing specialist. plan for students, while discussing Pennsylvania Army National I enjoy getting to know them and are having challenging behaviors. exploring ways to help them grow, law and research, analyzing compo- This information is also discussed Guard. Aside from that, I really en- nents of behavior plans and identi- There is also a limited physical re- joy volunteering – I am part of the My family and I live in Zion. My learn and become productive resi- with families who have children in husband Adam and I have a 2-year dents in the community. fying the role of a teacher in imple- straint component, but the empha- the district with Safety-Care as part Juniata Big Brothers Big Sisters menting student behavior plans. program and have been partnered old son named Weston and a beagle sis is on the verbal de-escalation of their Individualized Education • Effective collaboration: Applies with my “little” for four years. My named Lucy. We enjoy camping, Outside of school I enjoy reading aspect and what support strategies Plan. Safety-Care emphasized pro- husband and I love being outdoors hiking, traveling, spending time with and spending time with my family, effective communication strategies an individual can use with stu- among teachers and paraeducators tocol with a goal to minimize, man- and we often go hiking, kayaking, family and attending Penn State camping, traveling and attending dents when in need. age and prevent certain behavior. fishing and mountain biking. football games. Penn State football games. to avoid pitfalls and frustrations when providing services to students. 23 / ISSUE NO. 45 BASD.NET / 24 A: We also run Extended School Year, and that’s in the month of July. We will work on Extended School Year and coordinate transportation for the sum- SPECIAL EDUCATION mertime. Also, for a small population of students who have significant disabili- ties, they don’t take the PSSA (Pennsyl- vania System of School Assessment) or Keystone exams; they take the PASA Gina MacFalls, district director For students who are of work age, we tors, support staff and teachers, we’re testing. We also have students who have are affiliated with agencies that do eval- at about the mid-30s – our greatest significant communication needs. We uations for job coaching for a student numbers of teachers being at the high work with the University of Pittsburgh, of special education with more severe disabilities. school. and they come in on a monthly basis to *Dr. MacFalls recently resigned from Bellefonte Area School District to accept a position work with teachers, students and par- at Central Intermediate Unit 10. She participated in the Q&A while as the district’s special Q: What’s the percent of students Q: Talk a little bit about the staff. ents to not just put an iPad in front of a education director. Jennifer Butterworth was approved as the new director. in the district who are served by student, but figure out what device they Question: special education? A: They make my job so much easier. need and program it with functional What is I think the people we get in acclimate activities designed for that student to use special A: It’s 17.6 percent (as of Dec. 1, 2019). well to the district – they’re well trained, for more than a play thing. education? The Bureau of Special Education they seek advice, they take advantage (through the state Department of Edu- of professional learning opportunities Answer: cation) updates that every Dec. 1, and and collaborate well with one another, Pennsylvania Alternative Special it breaks it down by state average and and I think that makes my job easier System Assessment school district average. What it does is education is when I don’t have to chase after people. takes all of our students by disability a compilation They’re great! PASA is the Pennsylvania of services category. Speech and language is our Alternative System Assessment designed to meet needs of students who greatest percentage at 22 percent of that allows life skills teachers to our overall special ed population. We Q: As the director, what are your have disabilities. There are 13 disability videotape students during the can make a referral to have a student Q: How can families get more infor- have about 10 to 11 percent of our pop- responsibilities? categories that students can have – and performance-based assessment as tested. If the parent puts in writing that mation about special education? ulation who has autism. they can have a combination of those they perform tasks. they want to have their child evaluated A: I oversee everything, so I have the – and they receive service around their for special education, we need to honor A: Generally, when they’re in the public Q: What’s the goal of special education? financial part of it; oversee students disability area to accommodate that Extended School Year that and do the evaluation. If they are schools, the principal and classroom who go to private schools; I oversee the while they’re in public school. indeed struggling and if we’re looking teacher would be their first source or A: To meet the needs of students with overall supervision of school psy- Extended School Year is a summer at the same kinds of things, we would introduction. They may also call the disabilities and giftedness. It is a very chologists and school nurses, speech Q: How are students identified for school-type program for students then need to get their permission, called special ed office. Sometimes an agency expensive program to run, so we try to and language therapists – I observe special needs? who qualify – and to help main- a ‘permission to evaluate’ and then we might work with a parent and encour- be fiscally responsible, but also know and evaluate them, as well; and then I tain skills students have already have 60 calendar days to complete that age the parent to call. Sometimes the that we are not going to quibble about also troubleshoot issues in individual A: What we have are things called ‘high learned throughout the school evaluation. That evaluation will tell us if physician’s office might encourage the a $30 evaluation if a kid needs it. We (schools) on high-need cases, so I will instance disabilities,’ so some of those year. Students must have a goal they’re eligible and in need of services. parent to call. When they are evaluated, try to base all our decision on data and attend those IEP meetings. I help to students who would have learning in their Individualized Education From there, we will write an Individu- we also give them a packet with infor- what makes the most sense, so that if coordinate transportation, I will help disabilities or speech and language Plan that takes into consideration alized Education Plan, which outlines mation called a ‘procedural safeguard,’ we do require things that may be out of do observations and help put behavior impairment are the ones we have our what their disability area is. for a year the services and accommo- so they have the information they need. the ordinary, we have the background management programs together for greatest concentration in, with autism Students in special education dations and modifications the student to support that decision. students, and assist the principals and being the third. often regress more than others would be entitled to. Q: How does special education ser- other curriculum directors for anything during naturally-occurring breaks vices help with other support? Q: How many staff members are they need. What happens is they have to meet two and may take a longer time to Q: Special education isn’t necessar- part of the special ed team? criteria. They have to be eligible, which recoup those skills, according to A: We have a number of students with Q: What else should people know means they have to meet one of the ily just for those with disabilities, MacFalls. Teachers collect data autism and emotion disturbance who A: Including psychologists, speech ther- about special education at Bellefonte federal definitions of those disability cat- but also who are considered ‘gifted.’ after those breaks, such as during may or may not have learning disabilities apists, special education administra- Area School District? egories, and the other one is they have What is that? the summer and longer holiday or an intellectual disability. Their special to need specially-designed instruction. breaks such as during education program might look very They must have both of those condi- A: It’s special to Pennsylvania. It’s not Thanksgiving and Christmas. different than a student who’s getting tions met. It’s a safeguard, so that we’re a federal mandate. In the (common- academic modifications. They might not just putting kids in special education wealth) of Pennsylvania, we recognize During Extended School Year, spe- be on a positive behavior support plan without thoughtfully considering what students who have an IQ of 125 or cial education and general educa- where we talk to the teacher about how those qualifications are. greater, and we also look at multiple tion teachers from the Bellefonte to approach the student. They might be criteria areas (including) how they’re Area School District facilitate on some sort of point system to manage It can happen at any age. We do have performing in class, what their par- those classes in the summer for their behaviors. We also have what are students who come through early inter- about three hours a day, and ents say, what the teachers say, if they called ‘related services,’ so we bring in out- vention who already receive services, work with students to provide have a special area of interest (and side agencies like counselors and psychol- but at any time from kindergarten more). We also look at standardized test ogists who we can write into the IEP, and individual attention. through grade 12, a teacher or a parent scores. we would pay for those services. 25 / ISSUE NO. 45 BASD.NET / 26 Non-Profit Org. U.S. Postage Bellefonte PAID Area School District Bellefonte, PA 16823 Permit NO. 181

318 N. Allegheny St. Bellefonte, PA 16823 (814) 355-4814

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Advertise in Red Raider magazine, the official newsletter of Bellefonte Area School District, with a circulation of 12,932. For more information, contact the district at (814) 355-4814. www.basd.net BASD.NET / 27