Warrior Run School District

Warrior Run School District

Fragment of WRSD in northern part of County
Address
4800 Susquehanna Trail
Turbotville, Pennsylvania, Union County, Northumberland County, Montour County 17772
United States
Information
Type Public
School board 9 members locally elected at large
Superintendent

Alan Hack (contract July 1, 2016 - June 30, 2019) Salary $107,500 2016[1]

former superintendent Dr. John Kurelja, salary $118,450 (2012) $122,004 (2013), contract Jan 1, 2011 to June 30, 2015[2]
Administrator

Mrs. Bernadette Boerckel, Dir. Curriculum salary $94,288 (2016), $79,077 (2013)
Julie Petrin Director of Special Education salary $86,822 (2016), $75,000 (2013) Karen Stauffer, Title 1 Coordinator
Mrs Heather M Burke, Business Manager
Georganna F Kresl, Supervisor wellness, salary $68,365
Renee Frederick, food service director, $63,080 (2016), $48,101 (2009)
Leon Hagenbuch, buildings and grounds, $52,161 (2009)
Greg Alico, district systems manager, $79,828

Gary Williams Buildings and Grounds Super salary $57,750 (2016)
Principal Nathan Minium HS Principal, $88,200 (2016), $84,000 (2015)
Principal

Rebecca Perrequet TVES salary $81,411 (2016)

Marc Walter ES Assistant Principal, $72,105 (2016), $69,000 (2015)
Principal Susan Mabus, MS, salary $94,196 (2016), $79,000 (2013)
Staff 133 non teaching staff members (2013)
Faculty 135 teachers (2013);[3] 130 teachers (2010)[4]
Grades K-12
Age 5 years old to 21 years old special education
Pupils

1,549 pupils (2016)[5]
1,573 pupils (2014)[6]
1,653 pupils (2013)[7]
1,600 pupils (2012)
1,780 pupils (2007)

1,780 pupils 2006[8]
  Kindergarten 103 (2014),[9] 124 (2012), 111 (2011)
  Grade 1 126 (2012), 119
  Grade 2 117 (2012), 116
  Grade 3 120 (2012), 134
  Grade 4 136 (2012), 129
  Grade 5 128 (2012), 115
  Grade 6 125 (2012), 117
  Grade 7 133 (2012), 141
  Grade 8 114 (2012), 144
  Grade 9 123 (2012), 152
  Grade 10 135 (2012), 151
  Grade 11 129 (2012), 116
  Grade 12 143 (2012), 136 (2011)
  Other Enrollment projected to decline to 1,400 pupils by 2020[10]
Medium of language English
Color(s) blue and gray
Mascot eagle
Budget

$21.6 million (2015-16)[11]
$20.5 million (2014–15)[12]
$19,781,469 (2013–14)[13]

$20 million (2012-13)
School fees $40.00 activity fee
Per pupil spending

$10,234 (2008)
$11,341.73 (2010)

$12,505.09 (2014)
Website http://www.wrsd.org/
Warrior Run School District region in Northumberland County
Warrior Run School District region in Montour County

Warrior Run School District is a small, rural, public school district that covers 113 square miles (290 km2). It spans townships in three different counties: Gregg Township in Union County, Delaware Township and Lewis Township in Northumberland County, and Anthony Township and Limestone Township in Montour County in central Pennsylvania, USA. It also serves the residents of the boroughs of Turbotville, McEwensville and Watsontown. In 2010, the US Census Bureau reported the District's population increased to 17,278 people.[14] According to 2000 federal census data, Warrior Run School District served a resident population of 16,542. The educational attainment levels for the Warrior Run School District population (25 years old and over) were 81.8% high school graduates and 11.2% college graduates.[15]

According to the Pennsylvania Budget and Policy Center, 48.6% of the District’s pupils lived at 185% or below the Federal Poverty level as shown by their eligibility for the federal free or reduced price school meal programs in 2012.[16] In 2009, the residents' per capita income was $15,727, while the median family income was $43,010.[17] In Northumberland County, the median household income was $38,387.[18] In the Commonwealth, the median family income was $49,501[19] and the United States median family income was $49,445, in 2010.[20] By 2013, the median household income in the United States rose to $52,100.[21]

For the 2011-12 school year, the District had 1,664 pupils. It employed 140 teachers, over 100 full-time and part-time support personnel, and thirteen (13) administrators.[22] The District received $9,282,738 in state funding in the 2011-12 school year. According to District officials, in school year 2009-2010, Warrior Run School District provided basic educational services to 1,672 pupils. The District employed: 141 teachers, 102 full-time and part-time support personnel, and 13 administrators. WRSD received more than $8.7 million in state funding in school year 2009-2010. Per district officials, in school year 2005–06, the Warrior Run School District provided basic educational services to 1,802 pupils through the employment of 144 teachers, 111 full-time and part-time support personnel, and 14 administrators.

Warrior Run School District operates: Turbotville Elementary School, Watsontown Elementary School, Warrior Run Middle School, and Warrior Run High School. The school district was formed from the combination of the former Turbotville-Lewis Township School District and Watsontown School District. High school students may choose to attend Lycoming Career and Technology Center for training in the building trades. The Central Susquehanna Intermediate Unit IU16 provides the District with a wide variety of services like specialized education for disabled students and hearing, speech and visual disability services and professional development for staff and faculty.

Governance

Warrior Run School District is governed by 9 individually elected board members (serve four-year terms), the Pennsylvania State Board of Education, the Pennsylvania Department of Education and the Pennsylvania General Assembly.[23] The federal US Department of Education controls programs it funds like Title I funding for low-income children in the Elementary and Secondary Education Act and the No Child Left Behind Act (renamed Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA) in December 2015) which mandates the district focus its resources on student success in acquiring reading and math skills.[24] The school board is required by state law to post a financial report on the district in its website by March of each school year. [25] Warrior Run has failed to comply with this in 2015 and 2016.[26]

The Superintendent and Business Manager are appointed by the school board. The Superintendent is the chief administrative officer with overall responsibility for all aspects of operations, including education and finance. The Business Manager is responsible for budget and financial operations. Neither of these officials are voting members of the School Board. The School Board enters into individual employment contracts for these positions. In Pennsylvania, public school districts are required to give 150 days notice to the Superintendent regarding renewal of the employment contract. These contracts must be in writing and are subject to public discloure under the state’s Right to Know Act. In Pennsylvania, public school districts are required to give 150 days notice to the Superintendent and Business Manager regarding renewal of their employment contracts.[27] Pursuant to Act 141 of 2012 which amended the Pennsylvania School Code, all school districts that have hired superintendents on/after the fall of 2012 are required to develop objective performance standards and post them on the district’s website.[28]

In 2015, Warrior Run School Board extended a new contract to Superintendent Kurelja through June 30, 2020.[29] In June 2016, Kurelja resigned to take a position at CSIU16.

The Commonwealth Foundation for Public Policy Alternatives Sunshine Review gave the Warrior Run School Board and district administration a "D-" for transparency based on a review of "What information can people find on their school district's website". It examined the school district's website for information regarding; taxes, the current budget, meetings, school board members names and terms, contracts, audits, public records information and more.[30]

District AYP history

In 2011 and 2012, Warrior Run School District achieved Adequate Yearly Progress (AYP) status.[31]

Academic achievement

In 2016, Warrior Run School District ranked 166th out of 493 Pennsylvania public school districts, by the Pittsburgh Business Times.[33] The ranking is based on the last 3 years of student academic achievement as demonstrated by PSSAs results in: reading, writing, math and science and the three Keystone Exams (literature, Algebra 1, Biology I) in high school.[34] Three school districts were excluded because they do not operate high schools (Saint Clair Area School District, Midland Borough School District, Duquesne City School District). The PSSAs are given to all children in grades 3rd through 8th. Adapted PSSA examinations are given to children in the special education programs. Writing exams were given to children in 5th and 8th grades.

Warrior Run School District students academic achievement was in the 55th percentile in Pennsylvania public school districts in 2009. Scale – (0–99; 100 is state best)[44]

Graduation rate

In 2016, Warrior Run School District's graduation rate rose to 95.7%.[45]

According to traditional graduation rate calculations:

Warrior Run High School

Warrior Run High School is located at 4800 Susquehanna Trail, Turbotville, Pennsylvania. In 2014, Warrior Run High School reported an enrollment of 479 pupils, with 29% of pupils coming from low income homes.[56] Additionally, 9.6% of pupils received special education services, while 2% were identified as being gifted.

In 2013, the Principal of Warrior Run High School reported an enrollment of 529 pupils, with 23% of pupils coming from low income homes.[57] Additionally, 12% of pupils received special education services, while 1.5% were identified as being gifted. The school employed teachers.[58] Per the PA Department of Education 100% of the teachers were rated "Highly Qualified" under the federal No Child Left Behind Act.

According to the National Center for Education Statistics, in 2010, the school reported an enrollment of 542 pupils in grades 9th through 12th, with 120 pupils eligible for a federal free or reduced-price lunch due to family poverty. The school employed 43 teachers, yielding a student–teacher ratio of 12:1.[59] According to a report by the Pennsylvania Department of Education, 6 teachers were rated "Non‐Highly Qualified" under No Child Left Behind.[60]

2016 School Performance Profile

SPP 2016 88.9 out of 100 points. Warrior Run High School Keystone Exams mandated testing results were: 86.4% of students were on grade level in reading.literature and 87.4% of students demonstrated on grade level in Algebra I. In Biology I, 82.5% of pupils demonstrated on grade level science understanding at the end of the Biology course.[61] The requirement that pupils pass the Keystone Exams in reading, algebra I and bIology I in order to graduate was postponed until 2019 by the Pennsylvania General Assembly because less than 60% of 12 grade pupils statewide would have been eligible for graduation from high school, due to failing one or more Keystone Exams.[62]

2015 School Performance Profile

Warrior Run High School achieved an SPP of 75.5 out of 100. Reflects on grade level reading, mathematics and science achievement. The PDE reported that 73% of the High School’s students were on grade level in reading/literature. In Algebra 1, 89% of students showed on grade level skills at the end of the course. In Biology I, 77.8% demonstrated on grade level science understanding at the end of the course.[63] Statewide, 53 percent of schools with an eleventh grade achieved an academic score of 70 or better. Five percent of the 2,033 schools with 11th grade were scored at 90 and above; 20 percent were scored between 80 and 89; 28 percent between 70 and 79; 25 percent between 60 and 69 and 22 percent below 60. The Keystone Exam results showed: 73 percent of students statewide scored at grade-level in English, 64 percent in Algebra I and 59 percent in biology.[64][65]

2014 School Performance Profile

Warrior Run High School achieved 74.3 out of 100. Reflects on grade level reading, mathematics and science achievement. In reading/literature - 72.9% were on grade level. In Algebra 1. 71% showed on grade level skills. In Biology, 60% showed on grade level science understanding.[66][67] According to the Pennsylvania Department of Education, 2,134 of 2,947 Pennsylvania public schools (72 percent of Pennsylvania public schools), achieved an academic score of 70 or higher.[68] Fifty-three percent of schools statewide received lower SPP scores compared with last year's, while 46 percent improved. A handful were unchanged.[69][70]

2013 School Performance Profile

Warrior Run High School achieved an SPP of 76.3 out of 100. Reflects on grade level reading, mathematics and science achievement. In reading/literature - 75% were on grade level. In Algebra 1, 71.6% showed on grade level mathematics skills. In Biology, 28.57% showed on grade level science understanding.[71]

AYP History

In 2012, Warrior Run High School declined to Warning AYP status due to missing all measured academic metrics.[72] In 2011, the Warrior Run High School achieved AYP status. In 2009, Warrior Run High School ranked 344th out of 666 Pennsylvania high schools for the reading and mathematics achievement of its students.[73] From 2003 through 2009, the high school achieved AYP status each school year.

PSSAs

Pennsylvania System of School Assessments, commonly called PSSAs are No Child Left Behind Act related examinations which were administered from 2003 through 2012. The exams were administered in the Spring of each school year. The goal was for 100% of students to be on grade level or better in reading and mathematics, by the Spring of 2014. The tests focused on the state's Academic Standards for reading, writing, mathematics and science. The Science exam included content in science, technology, ecology and the environmental studies. The mathematics exam included: algebra I, algebra II, geometry and trigonometry. The standards were first published in 1998 and are mandated by the Pennsylvania State Board of Education.[74]

11th Grade Mathematics:
11th grade Reading:
11th grade Science:

Science in Motion Warrior Run High School failed to take advantage of a state program called Science in Motion which brought college professors and sophisticated science equipment to the school to raise science awareness and to provide inquiry-based experiences for the students. The Science in Motion program was funded by a state appropriation and cost the school nothing to participate.[89] Susquehanna University provided the science enrichment experiences to schools in the region.

College Remediation

In January 2009, research was presented to the Pennsylvania State Board of Education. The research examined course enrollment trends at the state’s 14 community colleges and the 14 institutions in the Pennsylvania State System of Higher Education. The data, provided by PASSHE and the community colleges, showed that during the 2007–08 school year 20% of Warrior Run High School graduates required costly remediation in math and/or reading before they could take regular college courses. This was the average remediation rate among the IU16 region's high schools.[90][91] Less than 66% of Pennsylvania high school graduates, who enroll in a four-year college in Pennsylvania, will earn a bachelor's degree within six years. Among Pennsylvania high school graduates pursuing an associate degree, only one in three graduate in three years.[92] Per the Pennsylvania Department of Education, one in three recent high school graduates who attend Pennsylvania's public universities and community colleges takes at least one remedial course in math, reading or English.

Dual enrollment – Warrior Run High School does not offer the Pennsylvania dual enrollment program which permits students to earn deeply discounted college credits while still enrolled in high school. Over 400 school districts in Pennsylvania offer this state-funded program.[93]

SAT scores

In 2014, Warrior Run School District students took the SAT exams. The District's Verbal Average Score was 491. The Math average score was 496. The Writing average score was 462.[94] Statewide in Pennsylvania, Verbal Average Score was 497. The Math average score was 504. The Writing average score was 480. The College Board also reported that nationwide scores were: 497 in reading, 513 in math and 487 in writing.[95]

In 2013, Warrior Run School District students took the SAT exams. The District's Verbal Average Score was 476. The Math average score was 500. The Writing average score was 463. The College Board reported that statewide scores were: 494 in reading, 504 in math and 482 in writing. The nationwide SAT results were the same as in 2012.[96]

In 2012, 80 Warrior Run School District students took the SAT exams. The District's Verbal Average Score was 487. The Math average score was 496. The Writing average score was 464. The statewide Verbal SAT exams results were: Verbal 491, Math 501, Writing 480. In the USA, 1.65 million students took the exams achieving scores: Verbal 496, Math 514, Writing 488. According to the College Board the maximum score on each section was 800, and 360 students nationwide scored a perfect 2,400.

In 2011, 69 Warrior Run School District students took the SAT exams. The district's Verbal Average Score was 485. The Math average score was 487. The Writing average score was 450.[97] Pennsylvania ranked 40th among state with SAT scores: Verbal - 493, Math - 501, Writing - 479.[98] In the United States 1.65 million students took the exam in 2011. They averaged 497 (out of 800) verbal, 514 math and 489 in writing.[99]

AP Courses

In 2013, Warrior Run High School offered 6 Advanced Placement (AP) courses at a higher cost than regular courses. Students have the option of taking College Board approved courses and then taking the College Board's examination in the Spring. Students, who achieve a 3 or better on the exam, may be awarded college credits at US universities and colleges. Each higher education institution sets its own standards about what level of credits are awarded to a student based on their AP exam score. Most higher education give credits for scores of 4 or 5. Some schools also give credits for scores of 3. High schools give credits towards graduation to students who take the school's AP class. At Warrior Run High School, 37.8% of the students who took an AP course earned a 3 or better on the exam.[100]

In 2014, Warrior Run High School offered 6 Advanced Placement (AP) courses, with 33% of pupils earning a 3 or better on the AP end of course exam.[101] In 2015, Warrior Run High School offered 13 Advanced Placement (AP) courses, with 39.5% of pupils earning a 3 or better on the AP end of course exam.[102]

Graduation requirements

The Warrior Run School Board has determined that students must earn 25 credits to graduate, including: 4 credits in English, 4 credits in social studies, 4 credits in math, 3 credits in science, 2 credits or 4 courses in physical education, 1⁄2 credit in health, 1 course in driver education, and enough electives to complete the total requirements.[103]

By law, all Pennsylvania secondary school students were required to complete a project as a part of their eligibility to graduate from high school. The type of project, its rigor and its expectations are set by the individual school district.[104] Effective with the graduating class of 2017, the Pennsylvania Board of Education eliminated the state mandate that students complete a culminating project in order to graduate.[105]

By Pennsylvania School Board regulations, beginning with the class of 2019, [106] public school students must demonstrate successful completion of secondary level course work in Algebra I, Biology, and English Literature by passing the Keystone Exams.[107][108][109][110] Students identified as having special needs and qualifying for an Individual Educational Program (IEP) may graduate by meeting the requirements of their IEP.

Students have several opportunities to pass the exam. Schools are mandated to provide targeted assistance to help the student be successful. Those who do not pass after several attempts can perform a project in order to graduate.[111][112] In 2011, Pennsylvania high school students field tested the Algebra 1, Biology and English Lit exams. The statewide results were: Algebra 1 38% on grade level, Biology 35% on grade level and English Lit - 49% on grade level.[113] Individual student, school or district reports were not made public, although they were reported to district officials by the Pennsylvania Department of Education.

ACE

Warrior Run School District students have access to Bloomsburg University's Summer College and Advanced College Experience (ACE) during the summer of their sophomore, junior and senior years (after high school graduation). Tuition is deeply discounted to 75% of the regular student rate.[114] Successful students earn college credits that can be readily transferred to other Pennsylvania public colleges and universities through the Pennsylvania Transfer and Articulation Center (PA TRAC) system.[115]

Middle school

Warrior Run Middle School is located at 4860 Susquehanna Trail, Turbotville. In 2014, the school had 503 pupils in grades 5th through 8th, with 37% pupils receiving a federal free or reduced-price lunch due to family poverty.[116] Additionally, 13.9% received special education services and less than 1% were gifted. According to a report by the Pennsylvania Department of Education, 100% of its teachers were rated "Highly Qualified" under the federal No Child Left Behind Act.

In 2010, Warrior Run Middle School had 490 pupils in grades 5th through 8th with 131 pupils receiving a federal free or reduced-price lunch due to family poverty. The school employed 39 teachers, for a student–teacher ratio of 12:1.[117] According to a report by the Pennsylvania Department of Education, 100% of its teachers were rated "Highly Qualified" under the federal No Child Left Behind Act.[118] In 2013, 12% of pupils received special education services.

2016 School Performance Profile

SPP 86.6 out of 100 points. Warrior Run Middle School PSSA mandated testing results were: 74.3% of students in 8th grade were on grade level in reading, while 60.5% of students demonstrated on grade level in mathematics. In science, 78.8% of eighth grade pupils demonstrated on grade level science understanding.[119] In 7th grade, 74.1% of pupils were on grade level in reading, while just 46.8% demonstrated on grade level math skills. Among 6th graders, 70.7% were on grade level in reading and only 52.9% were on grade level in math. Among fifth graders, 64.8% were reading on grade level and just 58.5% demonstrated on grade level math skills. No fifth grade writing scores were released.

2015 School Performance Profile

The PDE reported that 75% of 8th grade students at Warrior Run Middle School students were on grade level in reading on the PSSAs given in April 2015. In math/Algebra 1, 53% of 8th grade students showed on grade level skills. In science, 68% of the school’s 8th graders demonstrated on grade level science understanding. No eighth grade writing scores were reported. In 7th grade, 59% were on grade level in reading, while 39% showed on grade level math skills. Among 6th graders, 65% were on grade level in reading and 47% were on grade level in mathematics. In 5th grade, 65% of students were on grade level in reading on the PSSAs given in April 2015. In mathematics, 59% of 5th grade students showed on grade level skills. No fifth grade writing scores were reported.[120] Statewide 58% of eighth (8th) graders were on grade level in reading, while 29% demonstrated on grade level math skills. Among 7th graders 58% were on grade level in reading and 33% demonstrated on grade level math skills. Among sixth (6th) graders, 60.7% were reading on grade level, while 39.7% demonstrated on grade level math skills.[121] Statewide 61.9% of fifth (5th) graders were on grade level in reading, while 42.8% demonstrated on grade level math skills.

2014 School Performance Profile

Warrior Run Middle School achieved 84.2 out of 100. Reflects on grade level reading, mathematics and science achievement. In reading/literature - 72% were on grade level. In Algebra 1/Math, 84% showed on grade level mathematics skills. In Science, 79% of 8th graders showed on grade level science understanding. In writing, just 75% of the 8th grade students demonstrated on grade level writing skills.[122]

2013 School Performance Profile

Warrior Run Middle School achieved 90.7 out of 100. The score reflects on grade level: reading, science and mathematics achievement. In 2012-13, only 74.5% of the students were reading on grade level in grades 5th through 8th through 5th. In math, 85% were on grade level. In 8th grade science, just 76.8% of the pupils demonstrated on grade level understanding. In writing 81% of pupils were on grade level.[123]

AYP History

In 2012, Warrior Run Middle School achieved AYP status even though it missed all metrics measured in reading and mathematics.[124] In 2011, the Middle School declined to Warning Status.[125] In 2010, the School achieved AYP status. In 2010 and 2009, the middle school's attendance rate was 95%.[126]

PSSAs

Fifth grade is tested in reading, math and writing. Sixth and seventh grades are tested in reading and mathematics since 2006. Eighth graders are tested in: reading, writing, mathematics and Science. Beginning in the Spring of 2013, eighth graders, who are enrolled in Algebra I take the Keystone Exam for Algebra I at the end of the course. The testing of 8th grade in reading and mathematics began in 1999. Testing in science began in 2007. The goal is for 100% of students to be on grade level or better in reading and mathematics, by the Spring of 2014. The tests focus on the state's Academic Standards for reading, writing, mathematics and science. The standards were first published in 1998 and are mandated by the Pennsylvania State Board of Education.[74]

8th Grade Reading:

8th Grade Math:

8th Grade Science:

7th Grade Reading:
  • 2012 - 88%, 50% advanced. State - 76%. Ranked 6th (CSIU16 7th gr.)
  • 2011 - 85.2% (4% below basic). State - 76%. Ranked 2nd (CSIU16 7th gr.)
  • 2010 - 72%, State - 73% (126 pupils)
  • 2009 - 68%, State - 71%
  • 2008 - 74%, State - 70%
  • 2007 - 75%, State - 66%

7th Grade Math:
  • 2012 – 89%, 69% advanced. State – 78.6%
  • 2011 – 85%, 63% advanced. State – 78.6%
  • 2010 – 78%, 55% advanced. State – 77%
  • 2009 – 83%, 56% advanced. State – 75%[136]
  • 2008 – 78%, 50% advanced. State −70%
  • 2007 – 71%, 35% advanced. State – 67%[137]

6th Grade Reading:
  • 2012 - 76% (9% below basic). State – 68% on grade level.
  • 2011 - 69.5% (16% below basic). State – 69.9%
  • 2010 - 63%, State - 68%. (111 pupils) [138]
  • 2009 - 57%, State - 67%[139]
  • 2008 - 56%, State - 67%
  • 2007 - 67%, State - 63%

6th Grade Math:
  • 2012 - 88%, 63% advanced. State - 77%
  • 2011 - 86.6%, 59% advanced. State - 78%
  • 2010 - 82%, State - 78%
  • 2009 - 79%, State - 75%
  • 2008 - 82%, State - 72%
  • 2007 - 79%, State - 68%

5th Grade Reading:
  • 2012 – 73% on grade level. (10% below basic). State – 65%
  • 2011 – 57.2% (19% below basic). State – 67.3%
  • 2010 – 60%, State – 64% (111 pupils)
  • 2009 – 68%, State – 64%
  • 2008 – 58%, State – 61%
  • 2007 – 58%, State – 60%

5th Grade Math:
  • 2012 – 84% (4% below basic). State – 73%
  • 2011 – 81.9% (5% below basic). State – 76%
  • 2010 – 82%, State – 74%. Ranked 16th out of 34 fifth grades in CSIU16 region.[140]
  • 2009 – 86%, State – 73%[141]
  • 2008 – 83%, State – 73%[142]
  • 2007 – 84%, State – 71%[143]

Dropout Early Warning System

In 2013, Warrior Run School District did not implement the free state dropout prevention Early Warning System and Interventions Catalog at the junior high school.[144] The process identifies students at risk for droping out by examining the pupil’s: attendance, behavior and course grades. Interventions are implemented to assist at-risk pupils to remain in school. The program is funded by federal and private dollars.[145]

Turbotville Elementary School

Turbotville Elementary School is located at 301 Pine Street, Turbotville. In 2014, the School's enrollment was 285 pupils in grades kindergarten through 4th, with 38% of pupils receiving a federal free or reduced price meals due to family poverty. Additionally, 17.8% of Turbotville Elementary School pupils receive special education services, while lees than 0.5% are identified as gifted.[146] According to a report by the Pennsylvania Department of Education, 100% of the teachers were rated highly qualified under No Child Left Behind. Turbotville Elementary School provides full day kindergarten.[147] The school is a federally designated Title I school.

In 2010, Turbotville Elementary School had 295 pupils grades kindergarten through 4th, with 111 students receiving a federal free or reduced-price lunch due to family poverty. The school employed 22 teachers.[148] In 2012-13, Turbotville Elementary School enrollment was 286 pupils, with 37% of students receiving a federal free or reduced-price lunch. The school provided full day kindergarten since 2013.

2016 School Performance Profile

SPP 2016 78.5 out of 100 points. Turbotville Elementary School PSSA mandated testing results for 4th grade, 63.7% were on grade level in reading, while 61.8% demonstrated on grade level math skills. In science, 87.3% of fourth grade pupils demonstrated on grade level understanding of science concepts in the state standards. Among the school's third graders, only 68.9% were on grade level in reading and 84.4% showed on grade level mathematics skills.[149][150]

2015 School Performance Profile

According to the Pennsylvania Department of Education, in Turbotville Elementary School 4th grade, 45% were on grade level in reading, while 49% showed on grade level math skills. In science, 90% of fourth graders showed on grade level understanding. Among third (3rd) graders, 68% were on grade level in reading and 69% were on grade level in mathematics.[151] Statewide 4th graders were 58.6% on grade level in reading and 44.4% demonstrated on grade level math skills. In science, 77.3% of fourth graders showed on grade level understanding. Among Pennsylvania third (3rd) graders, 62% were reading on grade level, while 48.5% demonstrated on grade level math skills.[152]

2014 School Performance Profile

Turbotville Elementary School achieved a score of 83.2 out of 100. The score reflects on grade level: reading, science, writing and mathematics achievement. In 2013-14, only 75% of the students were reading on grade level in grades 3rd through 5th. In 3rd grade, 74% of the pupils were reading on grade level. In math, 87.5% were on grade level (3rd-5th grades). In 4th grade science, 91.9% of the pupils demonstrated on grade level understanding. In writing only % of 5th grade pupils demonstrated on grade level skills.[153]

2013 School Performance Profile

Turbotville Elementary School achieved 86.7 out of 100. The score reflects on grade level: reading, science and mathematics achievement. In 2012-13, 85% of the students were reading on grade level in grades 3rd and 4th. In 3rd grade 90% of pupils were reading on grade level. In math, 87.7% showed on grade level skills. In 4th grade science, 88.71% of the pupils demonstrated on grade level understanding.[154]

AYP History

From 2008 through 2012, Turbotville Elementary School achieved AYP status each school year.[155]

PSSA History

Each year, in the Spring, the 3rd graders take the PSSAs in math and reading. The fourth grade is tested in reading, math and science. The fifth grade is evaluated in reading, mathematics and writing. Pennsylvania System of School Assessments, commonly called PSSAs are No Child Left Behind Act related examinations which were administered beginning 2003 to all Pennsylvania public school students in grades 3rd-8th.[156] The goal was for 100% of students to be on grade level or better in reading and mathematics, by the Spring of 2014.[157][158][159] The tests focused on the state's Academic Standards for reading, writing, mathematics and science. The Science exam is given to 4th grades and includes content in science, technology, ecology and the environmental studies.[160]

4th Grade Reading
  • 2012 - 81% (6% below basic). State - 72%[161]
  • 2011 - 58% (25% below basic). State - 73%
  • 2010 - 79% (8% below basic). State - 73%[162] 12th in reading among CSIU16 region 4th grades.[163]
  • 2009 - 82% (2% below basic). State - 72%[164]
  • 2008 - 78% (5% below basic). State - 70%[165]
  • 2007 - 79% (9% below basic). State - 60%[166]

4th Grade Math
  • 2012 - 94%, 77% advanced. State - 82%
  • 2011 - 84%, 50% adv. (13% below basic). State - 85%
  • 2010 - 95%, 79% adv. (3% below basic). State - 84%
  • 2009 - 95%, 69% adv. (2% below basic). State - 81%
  • 2008 - 92%, 70% adv. (7% below basic). State - 80%
  • 2007 - 92%, 56% adv. (3% below basic). State - 78%

4th Grade Science

3rd Grade Reading
  • 2012 - 80%, (14% below basic). State - 74% [81]
  • 2011 - 85%, (5% below basic). State - 77%
  • 2010 - 68%, (26% below basic). State - 75%
  • 2009 - 91%, (5% below basic). State - 77%
  • 2008 - 84%, (4% below basic). State - 70%
  • 2007 - 79%, (10% below basic). State - 72%

3rd Grade Math
  • 2012 - 90%, 58% adv. (5% below basic). State - 80%
  • 2011 - 95%, 67% advanced. State - 83%[168]
  • 2010 - 90%, 58% adv. (5% below basic). State - 84%
  • 2009 - 96%, 73% adv. (0% below basic). State - 81%
  • 2008 - 95.7%, 45% adv. (0% below basic). State - 80%
  • 2007 - 95%, 56% adv. (5% below basic). State - 78%

Watsontown Elementary School

Watsontown Elementary School is located at 1100 Main Street, Watsontown. In 2014, the School's enrollment was 302 pupils in grades kindergarten through 4th, with 41% of pupils receiving a federal free or reduced price meals due to family poverty. Additionally, 12.5% of the pupils receive special education services, while none are identified as gifted.[169] According to a report by the Pennsylvania Department of Education, 100% of the teachers were rated highly qualified under No Child Left Behind. The school provides full day kindergarten.[170] The school is a federally designated Title I school.

In 2010, at Watsontown Elementary School, there were 336 pupils grades kindergarten through 4th, with 132 students receiving a federal free or reduced-price lunch. The school employed 26.5 teachers yielding a student teacher ratio of 12:1.[171] In 2013, the school had 336 pupils, with 38% receiving a free or reduced price lunch due to family poverty. The School provided full-day kindergarten.

2016 School Performance Profile

SPP 2016 64.9 out of 100 points. Watsontown Elementary School PSSA mandated testing results for 4th grade, just 41.4% were on grade level in reading, while only 36.2% demonstrated on grade level math skills. In science, 84.5% of fourth grade pupils demonstrated on grade level understanding of science concepts in the state standards. Among the school's third graders, only 64.3% were on grade level in reading and just 48.2% showed on grade level mathematics skills.[172]

2015 School Performance Profile

The School Performance profile was withheld by the PDE. According to the Pennsylvania Department of Education, in Watsontown Elementary School 4th grade, 58% were on grade level in reading, while 44% showed on grade level math skills. In science, 90% of fourth graders showed on grade level understanding. Among third (3rd) graders, 50% were on grade level in reading and 48% were on grade level in mathematics.[173] Statewide 4th graders were 58.6% on grade level in reading and 44.4% demonstrated on grade level math skills. In science, 77.3% of fourth graders showed on grade level understanding. Among Pennsylvania third (3rd) graders, 62% were reading on grade level, while 48.5% demonstrated on grade level math skills.[174]

2014 School Performance Profile

Watsontown Elementary School achieved a score of 77.6 out of 100. The score reflects on grade level: reading, science, writing and mathematics achievement. In 2013-14, 80% of the students were reading on grade level in grades 3rd through 5th. In 3rd grade, 83.6% of the pupils were reading on grade level. In math, 86.9% were on grade level (3rd-5th grades). In 4th grade science, 92% of the pupils demonstrated on grade level understanding.[175]

2013 School Performance Profile

Watsontown Elementary School achieved 82.4 out of 100. The score reflects on grade level: reading, science and mathematics achievement. In 2012-13, only 76% of the students were reading on grade level in grades 3rd through 4th. In 3rd grade, 83% were on grade level reading. In math, 85.9% were on grade level. In 4th grade science, just 86.5% of the pupils demonstrated on grade level understanding.[176]

AYP status History

In 2012, Watsontown Elementary School improved to achieving Adequate Yearly Progress (AYP) status. In Reading, just 72% of the 3rd and 4th grade pupils were on grade level. In Mathematics, 86% of 3rd and 4th graders were on grade level. In 4th grade science, 85% were on grade level.[177]

In 2011, Watsontown Elementary School declined to Warning AYP status due to low student achievement in reading. Just 68% of the 3rd and 4th grade pupils were on grade level in Reading and 89% of 3rd and 4th graders were on grade level Mathematics. In 4th grade science, 88% were on grade level.[178]

4th Grade Reading
  • 2012 - 71% (9% below basic). State - 72%[179]
  • 2011 - 63% (19% below basic). State - 73%[180]
  • 2010 - 68% (16% below basic). State - 73%[181]
  • 2009 - 67% (9% below basic). State - 72%[182]
  • 2008 - 75% (8% below basic). State - 70%[183]
  • 2007 - 63% (17% below basic). State - 60%[184]

4th Grade Math
  • 2012 - 87% (6% below basic). State - 82%
  • 2011 - 86% (5% below basic). State - 85%
  • 2010 - 82% (6% below basic). State - 84%
  • 2009 - 89% (5% below basic). State - 81%
  • 2008 - 87% (6% below basic). State - 80%
  • 2007 - 72% (17% below basic). State - 78%

4th Grade Science

3rd Grade Reading
  • 2012 - 77%, (8% below basic). State - 74% [81]
  • 2011 - 74%, (7% below basic). State - 77%
  • 2010 - 77%, (14% below basic). State - 75%
  • 2009 - 84%, (8% below basic). State - 77%
  • 2008 - 88%, (3% below basic). State - 70%
  • 2007 - 87%, (6% below basic). State - 72%

3rd Grade Math
  • 2012 - 92%, 43% advanced (3% below basic). State - 80%
  • 2011 - 91%, 50% adv. (3% below basic). State - 83%
  • 2010 - 95%, 51% adv. (1% below basic). State - 84%
  • 2009 - 96%, 54% adv. (0% below basic). State - 81%
  • 2008 - 94%, 67% adv. (3% below basic). State - 80%
  • 2007 - 90%, 54% adv. (0% below basic). State - 78%

In 2010, the 4th grade was ranked 26th in reading among CSIU16 region school 4th grades. In 2009, the 4th grade was ranked 28th in math among CSIU16 region school 4th grades.[185][186]

Bullying Policy and school safety

In 2015, the Warrior Run School District administrative reported there were four incidents of bullying in the district and thirteen incidents of harassment. There were two simple assaults on pupils. There were also two sexual incidents involving pupils.[187] There were 6 law enforcement incidents including 5 episodes of Terroristic Threats, with 2 students assigned to alternative education.

In 2013, the Warrior Run School District administrative reported there were two incidents of bullying in the district and three incidents of sexual harassment.[188] There were 6 law enforcement incidents including 5 episodes of Terroristic Threats, with 3 students assigned to alternative education.

In 2009, the Warrior Run School District administrative reported there was one incident of bullying in the district.[189][190]

In January 2010, the administration reported implementing an antibully program which includes teacher trainings, web-based information for parents and student interventions.[191]

In September 2011, each of the schools within the district instituted an anti-bullying campaign with positive schoolwide behavior plans. At the high school level, the program was called Defender P.R.I.D.E., with each letter representing a positive quality expected from students: Perseverance, Respect, Integrity, Dedication, and Excellence. The middle school's program, entitled R.E.S.P.E.C.T. focused on Responsibility, Empathy, Self-control, Perseverance, Excellence, Cooperation, Teamwork. The two elementary schools together used the program CARES, for Cooperation, Assertion, Responsibility, Empathy, and Self-control.

The school board prohibits bullying by district students. A policy approved in December 2008 defines bullying and cyberbullying. The Board directs that complaints of bullying shall be investigated promptly, and corrective action shall be taken when allegations are verified. No reprisals or retaliation shall occur as a result of good faith reports of bullying.[192] All Pennsylvania schools are required to have an anti-bullying policy incorporated into their Code of Student Conduct. The policy must identify disciplinary actions for bullying and designate a school staff person to receive complaints of bullying. The policy must be available on the school's website and posted in every classroom. All Pennsylvania public schools must provide a copy of its anti-bullying policy to the Office for Safe Schools every year, and shall review their policy every three years. Additionally, the district must conduct an annual review of that policy with students.[193] The Center for Schools and Communities works in partnership with the Pennsylvania Commission on Crime & Delinquency and the Pennsylvania Department of Education to assist schools and communities as they research, select and implement bullying prevention programs and initiatives.[194]

Education standards relating to student safety and antiharassment programs are described in the 10.3. Safety and Injury Prevention in the Pennsylvania Academic Standards for Health, Safety and Physical Education.[195]

Safe School grant

In 2013, Warrior Run School District was awarded $13,190 in a state Safe Schools Targeted Grant. The maximum of $25,000 grants were awarded through a competitive application process.[196] The funds must be used for research based interventions, like: peer mediation, staff training in managing behavioral issues and creating a positive school climate. The District did not participate in the state's School Resource Officer and Police Officer grant.

Special education

In December 2015, Warriror Run School District administration reported that 213 pupils or 13.9% of the district's pupils received Special education services, with 42.6% having a specific learning disability.[197]

In June 2014, a second lawsuit was filed by a parent against the District due to denial of special education services to a student.[198] In 2013, Warriror Run School District administration reported that 210 pupils or 13.3% of the district's pupils received Special education services, with 33.8% having a specific learning disability.[199]

In 2011, Warriror Run School District administration reported that 217 pupils or 13% of the district's pupils received Special education services, with 30% having a specific learning disability.[200] In 2010, the District administration reported that 218 pupils or 13% of the District's pupils received Special education services, with 31% having a specific learning disability. In December 2009, the District administration reported that 238 pupils or 13.7% of the district's pupils received Special education services.[201]

In 2007, Pennsylvania Secretary of Education Gerald Zahorchak testified before the Pennsylvania House Education Committee regarding full day kindergarten. He claimed that districts which offered the program would see a significant decrease in special education students due to early identification and early intervention. He asserted the high cost of full day kindergarten would be recouped by Districts in lower special education costs.[202] Warrior Run School District has provided full day kindergarten since 2011. The District has no decrease in the percentage of special education students it serves, yielding no savings.

The District engages in identification procedures to ensure that eligible students receive an appropriate educational program consisting of special education and related services, individualized to meet student needs. At no cost to the parents, these services are provided in compliance with state and federal law; and are reasonably calculated to yield meaningful educational benefit and student progress. To identify students who may be eligible for special education, various screening activities are conducted on an ongoing basis. When a child experiences difficulty within the classroom, screening information will be gathered by the team located within the child’s school to determine his or her specific needs. These screening activities include: review of group-based data (cumulative records, enrollment records, health records, report cards, ability and achievement test scores); hearing, vision, motor, and speech/language screening; and review by the Instructional Support Team or Student Assistance Team. When screening results suggest that the student may be eligible, the District seeks parental consent to conduct a multidisciplinary evaluation. Parents, who suspect their child is eligible, may make a written request for a multidisciplinary evaluation to the building principal or the Director of Special Education.[203]

Once permission is given for the evaluation, the District has 60 calendar days to complete the report. The parent will be sent a copy 10 days before the team IEP meeting called an Educational Review. Following the ER, the district has 30 days to develop an IEP (individual Education Plan) with parent/guardian participation. The time from IEP written plan to implementation may be no more than 10 days.[204][205] The IDEA 2004 requires each school entity to publish a notice to parents, in newspapers or other media, including the student handbook and website regarding the availability of screening and intervention services and how to access them.

In 2010, the state of Pennsylvania provided $1,026,815,000 for special education services. This funding is in addition to the state's basic education per pupil funding, as well as, all other state and federal funding.[206] The Pennsylvania Special Education funding system assumes that 16% of the district’s students receive special education services. It also assumes that each student’s needs accrue the same level of costs.[207] The state requires each district to have a three-year special education plan to meet the unique needs of its special education students.[208] Overidentification of students, in order to increase state funding, has been an issue in the Commonwealth. Some districts have more than 20% of its students receiving special education services while others have 10% supported through special education.[209] The state requires each public school district and charter school to have a three-year special education plan to meet the unique needs of its special education students.[210] In 2012, the Obama Administration's US Department of Education issued a directive requiring schools include students with disabilities in extracurricular activities, including sports.[211]

Warrior Run School District received a $1,011,053 supplement for special education services in 2010.[212] The school district was level funded for 2011. For the 2011-12, 2012–13 and 2013-14 school years, all Pennsylvania public school districts received the same level of funding for special education that they received in 2010-11. This level funding is provided regardless of changes in the number of pupils who need special education services and regardless of the level of services the respective students required.[213] Additionally, the state provides supplemental funding for extraordinarily impacted students. The District must apply for this added funding.

Gifted education

The District Administration reported that 19 pupils or 1.14% of its students were gifted in 2009.[215] By law, the district must provide mentally gifted programs at all grade levels. The primary emphasis is on enrichment and acceleration of the regular education curriculum through a push in model with the gifted instructor in the classroom with the regular instructor. This approach permits such specialized instructional strategies as tiered assignments, curriculum compacting, flexible grouping, learning stations, independent projects and independent contracts. The referral process for a gifted evaluation can be initiated by teachers or parents by contacting the student’s building principal and requesting an evaluation. All requests must be made in writing. To be eligible for mentally gifted programs in Pennsylvania, a student must have a cognitive ability of at least 130 as measured on a standardized ability test by a certified school psychologist. Other factors that indicate giftedness will also be considered for eligibility.[216][217]

Budget

Pennsylvania public school districts budget and expend funds according to procedures mandated by the General Assembly and the Pennsylvania Department of Education (PDE). An annual operating budget is prepared by school district administrative officials. A uniform form is furnished by the PDE and submitted to the board of school directors for approval prior to the beginning of each fiscal year on July 1.

Under Pennsylvania’s Taxpayer Relief Act, Act 1 of the Special Session of 2006, all school districts of the first class A, second class, third class and fourth class must adopt a preliminary budget proposal. The proposal must include estimated revenues and expenditures and the proposed tax rates. This proposed budget must be considered by the Board no later than 90 days prior to the date of the election immediately preceding the fiscal year. The preliminary budget proposal must also be printed and made available for public inspection at least 20 days prior to its adoption. The board of school directors may hold a public hearing on the budget, but are not required to do so. The board must give at least 10 days’ public notice of its intent to adopt the final budget according to Act 1 of 2006.[218]

In October 2015, Warrior Run School Board and Warrior Run Teachers Union entered into a three-year contract with 3.4% raises each year (annual and step raises combined).[219] The union's 130 teachers, counselors and nurses will continue to pay 10% of the cost of their health insurance in 2015-16 and 11% in the last two years of the contract. In 2013, the average teacher salary in the District was reported as $50,398.[220]

In 2013, Warrior Run School Board and the Warrior Run Teacher's Union were in negotiations over a new contract. The teacher's union has engaged in a labor action called "working to rule" to pressure the Board for concessions.[221] A fact finding report by the Pennsylvania Labor Relations Board was provided to the District in May 2013.[222] Teachers had been working since the previous contract expired in June 2011. In June 2013, they agreed to a new contract which spans July 1, 2011 until June 30, 2015.[223] In 2013, the average teacher salary in Warrior Run School District was $48,090 a year, while the cost of the benefits teachers receive was $17,296 per employee, for a total annual average teacher compensation of $65,387.[224] The top salary was $122,004.[225]

In 2012, the average teacher salary in Warrior Run School District was $48,431 a year, while the cost of the benefits teachers receive was $14,599.33 per employee, for a total annual average teacher compensation of $63,030.81.[224] The top salary was $118,450.

In 2011, the average teacher salary in Warrior Run School District was $49,601 a year, while the cost of the benefits teachers receive was $11,933 per employee, for a total annual average teacher compensation of $61,535.[226] According to a study conducted at the American Enterprise Institute, in 2011, public school teachers’ total compensation is roughly 50 percent higher than they would likely receive in the private sector. The study found that the most generous benefits that teachers receive are not accounted for in many studies of compensation, including: pension, retiree health benefits and job security.[227]

In 2009, the Warrior Run School District reported employing 189 teacher and administrators with an average salary of $50,980 and a top salary of $115,824.[228][229] Additionally, the teachers receive a defined benefit pension, health insurance, dental insurance, life insurance, professional development reimbursement, paid 2 paid personal days, 10 paid sick days, a retirement bonus paid in a lump sum plus an early retirement inducement and other benefits. Beginning with the 2010-2011 school year teachers contribute ten percent of the premium cost attributed to the employee’s health insurance. A sabbatical leave is offered at one half salary and full benefits for one year. Time on sabbatical leave is counted toward seniority where applicable in the District, retirement fund payments, and the accumulation of sick leave.[230]

In 2007, the District employed 124 teachers and the average teacher salary in the district was $47,049 for 180 days worked.[231] > As of 2007, Pennsylvania ranked in the top 10 states in average teacher salaries. When adjusted for cost of living Pennsylvania ranked fourth in the nation for teacher compensation.[232]

Per pupil spending: Warrior Run School District administrative costs in 2008 were $631.78 per pupil. The lowest administrative cost per pupil in Pennsylvania was $398 per pupil.[233] In November 2010, the board hired Dr. John Kurelja as superintendent with a contract awarding a $115,000 initial salary for a 4.5 year term.[234] In April 2008, the school board approved a three year for Daniel B. Sheaffer as Superintendent, with an initial salary of $112,450 beginning July 1, 2008. The contract included an extensive benefits package including life insurance, health insurance, defined benefit pension, paid sick and vacation days, dues paid and more.[235] In June 2010, the superintendent announced his intention to retire in December 2010.[236] In June 2014, the Warrior Run School Board approved salary and pay increases totaling $880,757 for 12 administrative and supervisory positions in a 7-2 vote.[237] Warrior Run School Board has raised salaries in excess of the rate of inflation, exacerbating the District's challenges paying PSERS costs.[238]

Administration spending: Warrior Run School District administration reported that per pupil spending in 2008 was $10,234 which ranked 460th in the state' 501 school districts.[239] According to an administrative report to the Pennsylvania Department of Education, in 2010 the per pupil spending had risen to $10,870.94.[240] Among the states, Pennsylvania’s total per pupil revenue (including all sources) ranked 11th at $15,023 per student, in 2008-09.[241] In 2007, the Pennsylvania per pupil total expenditures was $12,759.[242]

In 2016, the Board approved a new Act 93 Contract with administrators.[243] In the three-year contract, the raises are 2.5% plus a $1,250 base increase. Previously raises were based on performance evaluations.

Reserves: In 2008, the Warrior Run School District reported a balance of zero, in its unreserved-designated fund. The unreserved-undesignated fund balance was reported as $1,710,751. [244] In 2010, Warrior Run School District Administration reported an increase to $1,499,702 in the unreserved-undesignated fund balance. The District also reported $228,000 in its unreserved-designated fund in 2010. Pennsylvania public school district reserve funds are divided into two categories – designated and undesignated. The undesignated funds are not committed to any planned project. Designated funds and any other funds, such as capital reserves, are allocated to specific projects. School districts are required by state law to keep 5 percent of their annual spending in the undesignated reserve funds to preserve bond ratings. According to the Pennsylvania Department of Education, from 2003 to 2010, as a whole, Pennsylvania school districts amassed nearly $3 billion in reserved funds.[245] By 2013, reserves held by Pennsylvania public school districts, as a whole, had increased to over $3.8 billion.[246] In 2013, the Board reported the District held $3,001,119 in its reserve funds.[247] In 2014-15, Warrior Run School District reported having grown its reserves to $4,145,912.[248]

Audit: In January 2009, the Pennsylvania Auditor General conducted a performance audit of the district. Findings were reported to the administration and the school board, including possible conflicts of interests in the actions of board members.[249] In January 2013, the District was audited again by the Pennsylvania Auditor General. The findings were reported to the Board.[250]

Tuition: Students who live in the Warrior Run School District's attendance area may choose to attend one of Pennsylvania's 157 public charter schools. A student living in a neighboring public school district or a foreign exchange student may seek admission to Area School District. For these cases, the Pennsylvania Department of Education sets an annual tuition rate for each school district. It is the amount the public school district pays to a charter school for each resident student that attends the charter and it is the amount a nonresident student's parents must pay to attend the Warrior Run School District's schools. The 2012 tuition rates are Elementary School - $8,310, High School - $8,898 .[251]

KOZ zone: In June 2009, the Warrior Run School Board voted to approve two resolutions requested by the Union County Industrial Development Corporation to extend tax benefits of the Keystone Opportunity Zone and Keystone Opportunity Expansion Zone in Great Stream Commons in Gregg Township, Union County, by seven years. The owners of these properties will be not be required to pay income taxes related to the property nor any local property taxes or school property taxes.[252]

In 2011, the Warrior Run School Board passed a $18,800,000 budget that included raises for administration and support staff which averaged three percent. Classified staff received a 35 cent per hour increase. The district is in negotiations with the teachers' union for a new contract.[253] In January 2013, the Board and teachers' union continue to negotiate. The teachers staged a work action to bring pressure on the Board. In June 2013, the parties agreed to a contract covering July 1, 2011 to June 30, 2015. Much of the agreement follows a fact finders report.[254]

Warrior Run School District is funded by a combination of: a local earned income tax at 1.3%, a property tax, a $5 per capita tax, a real estate transfer tax 0.5%, coupled with substantial funding from the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania and the federal government.[255] Grants can provide an opportunity to supplement school funding without raising local taxes. Interest earnings on accounts also provide nontax income to the District. In the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, pension income and Social Security income are exempted from state personal income tax and local earned income tax, regardless of the level of the individual’s personal wealth.[256] The average Pennsylvania public school teacher pension in 2011 exceeds $60,000 a year plus they receive federal Social Security benefits: both are free of Pennsylvania state income tax and local income tax which funds local public schools.[257]

State basic education funding

According to a report from Representative Todd Stephens office, Warrior Run School District receives 48.6% of its annual revenue from the state.[258] This is very close to education spending advocates goal of the state providing 50% of district funding.[259]

For the 2016-17 school year, Warrior Run School District received $6,315,832 in Basic Education Funding from the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. This is a 1.8% increase over 2015-16 funding to the District. The highest percentage of BEF increase in Northumberland County was 3% awarded to Shikellamy School District under the state’s Basic Education Funding formula. For the 2016-17 school year, Pennsylvania increased its public education spending to a record high of $5,895 billion. It was a $200 million increase, 3.51% increase over the 2015-16 appropriation.[260] The state also funded Ready to Learn grants at $250 million and Special Education funding received a $20 million increase.[261] The state also paid $492 million to the school employee social security fund and another $2.064 billion to the teacher’s pension fund.[262] Statewide Conestoga Valley School District received a 13.3% increase in state BEF funding. Five PA public school districts received an increase of 10% or greater in Basic Education funding over their 2015-16 funding. Warrior Run also received increases in special ed funding and Ready to Learn funding.

For the 2015-16 school year, Governor Tom Wolf released a partial Basic Education Funding of $2,994,990 to Warrior Run School District, in January 2016.[263] This was part of $10.3 billion in school funding withheld from the public schools, by the Governor since the summer of 2015.[264] The disbursement did not follow the new Basic Education Fair Funding formula which had been established by the Pennsylvania General Assembly in June 2015.[265] Ten (10) Pennsylvania school districts received no increase in Basic Education funding under Governor Wolf.[266][267] The District also received another $224,515 in Ready To Learn grant funds. In April 2016, Governor Wolf announced his finalized disbursement of 2015-16 state Basic Education Funding. Warrior Run School District received a 1.37% increase for a total funding of $6,411,804.[268] This is $52,239 less than the district was to receive by law under the state’s Fair Funding approved in 2015.[269] The highest increase in funding statewide was awarded by Governor Wolf to Wilkinsburg Borough School District which got a 48.07% increase in state Basic Education Funding. The average BEF increase among the Commonwealth’s 500 public school districts for 2015-16 was 2.21%. In Northumberland County, the highest percentage increase was awarded to Shikellamy School District - 2.79%.

For the 2014-15 school year, Warrior Run School District received $6,119,902 in State Basic Education funding (BEF). The District also received $105,050 in Accountability Block Grant funding and $100,018 in new Ready To Learn Block grant. The State’s enacted Education Budget includes $5,526,129,000 for the 2014-2015 Basic Education Funding.[270] The Education budget also includes Accountability Block Grant funding at $100 million and $241 million in new Ready to Learn funding for public schools that focus on student achievement and academic success. The State is paying $500.8 million to Social Security on the school employees behalf and another $1.16 billion to the state teachers pension system (PSERS). In total, Pennsylvania’s Education budget for K-12 public schools is $10 billion. This was a $305 million increase over 2013-2014 state spending and the greatest amount ever allotted by the Commonwealth for its public schools.[271]

For the 2013-14 school year, the Warrior Run School District received a 1.8% increase or $6,120,395 in Pennsylvania Basic Education Funding. This was $106,932 more than its 2012-13 state BEF to the District. Additionally, Warrior Run School District received $105,050 in Accountability Block Grant funding to focus on academic achievement and level funding for special education services. Among the public school districts in Northumberland County, Shikellamy School District received the highest percentage increase in BEF at 1.9%. The District has the option of applying for several other state and federal grants to increase revenues. The Commonwealth’s budget increased Basic Education Funding statewide by $123 million to over $5.5 billion. Most of Pennsylvania’s 500 public school districts received an increase of Basic Education Funding in a range of 0.9% to 4%. Eight public school districts received exceptionally high funding increases of 10% to 16%. The highest increase in state funding was awarded to Austin Area School District which received a 22.5% increase in Basic Education Funding.[272] The state funded the PSERS (Pennsylvania school employee pension fund) with $1,017,000,000 and Social Security payments for school employees of $495 million.[273]

For the 2012-13 school year, Warrior Run School District received $6,013,463 in state Basic Education Funding. Total state funding to the District was $8,722,873.[274] The Governor's Executive Budget for 2012-2013 includes $9.34 billion for kindergarten through 12th grade public education, including $5.4 billion in basic education funding, which is an increase of $49 million over the 2011-12 budget. The state also provides $100 million for the Accountability Block grant. Warrior Run School District received $105,050 in Accountability Block Grant funding to focus on academic achievement. The state also provided statewide $544.4 million for School Employees’ Social Security and $856 million for School Employees’ Retirement fund called PSERS.[275] This amount is a $21,823,000 increase (0.34%) over the 2011-2012 appropriations for Basic Education Funding, School Employees' Social Security, Pupil Transportation, Nonpublic and Charter School Pupil Transportation. Since taking office, Corbett’s first two budgets have restored more than $918 million in support of public schools, compensating for the $1 billion in federal stimulus dollars lost at the end of the 2010-11 school year.

In 2011–12, Warrior Run School District received $6,013,463 in state Basic Education Funding.[276] Additionally, the District received $105,050 in Accountability Block Grant funding for full day kindergarten. The enacted Pennsylvania state Education budget includes $5,354,629,000 for the 2011-2012 Basic Education Funding appropriation. This amount is a $233,290,000 increase (4.6%) over the enacted State appropriation for 2010-2011.[277] The highest increase in state basic education funding was awarded to Duquesne City School District, which got a 49% increase in state funding for 2011-12.[278] In 2010, the District reported that 459 students received free or reduced-price lunches, due to the family meeting the federal poverty level.[279]

In the 2010–11 budget year, the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania provided a 3.01% increase in Basic Education funding to Warrior Run School District for a total of $6,408,536. Milton Area School District received the highest increase in Northumberland County a 6.46% in Basic Education Funding from the state. Among the 500 school districts in the commonwealth, 150 Pennsylvania School districts received the base 2% increase while Kennett Consolidated School District in Chester County received a 23.65% increase for 2010. Fifteen school districts received an increase greater of than 10%.[280] The state's hold harmless policy regarding state basic education funding continued where each public school district received at least the same amount as it received the prior school year, even when enrollment had significantly declined. The amount of increase each school district received was set by Governor Edward Rendell and then Secretary of Education Gerald Zahorchak, as a part of the state budget proposal given each February. This was the second year of Governor Rendell’s policy to fund some public school districts at a far greater rate than others.[281]

In the 2009–10 budget year, the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania provided a 3.46% increase in Basic Education funding for a total of $6,221,470 to Warrior Run School District. The Pennsylvania Department of Education gave 15 school districts an increase of Basic Education Funding of over 10% in the 2009 – 10 budget.[282] Mount Carmel Area School District received 6.23% which was the highest increase in Northumberland County in 2009. In Pennsylvania, ninety school districts were allotted the base increase of 2%. Muhlenberg School District in Berks County received an increase of 22.31%.[283] The amount of increase each school district receives is determined by Governor Edward Rendell and the Secretary of Education Gerald Zahorchak through the allocation made in the budget proposal released in February each year.[284]

In 2008-2009, the state Basic Education Funding to the District was $6,013,462.59. The Pennsylvania Department of Education reported that, in the 2007–08 school year, 403 students received a free or reduced-price lunch due to low family income.

Accountability Block Grants

Beginning in 2004–2005, the state launched the Accountability Block Grant school funding. This program has provided $1.5 billion to Pennsylvania’s school districts. The Accountability Block Grant program requires that its taxpayer dollars are focused on specific interventions that are most likely to increase student academic achievement. These interventions include: teacher training, all-day kindergarten, lower class size K-3rd grade, literacy and math coaching programs that provide teachers with individualized job-embedded professional development to improve their instruction, before or after school tutoring assistance to struggling students, For the 2010–11 school year, the Warrior Run School District applied for and received $285,131, in addition to all other state and federal funding. The district used the funding to provide additional training to teachers to improve instruction (1st year) and to improve science instruction (4th year).[285][286][287]

Ready to Learn grant

Beginning in the 2014-15 budget, the State funded a new Ready to Learn Grant for public schools. A total of $100 million is allocated through a formula to districts based on the number of students, level of poverty of community as calculated by its market value/personal income aid ratio (MV/PI AR) and the number of English language learners. Ready to Learn Block Grant funds may be used by the Districts for: school safety; Ready by 3 early childhood intervention programs; individualized learning programs; and science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) programs.[288] Warrior Run School District received $100,018 in Ready to Learn Grant dollars in addition to State Basic Education funding, Special Education funding, Accountability Block Grant funding, PreK Counts funding, reimbursement for Social Security payments for employees and other state grants which the district must apply to receive.

In 2016-17, the District received $259,427 in Ready to Learn grant from the state.

Classrooms for the Future grant

The Classroom for the Future state program provided Pennsylvania school districts with hundreds of thousands of extra state funding to buy laptop computers for each core curriculum high school class (English, Science, History, Mathematics) and paid for teacher training to optimize the computers use. The state grant requires the district hire a part-time technology coach, whose role is to assist the teachers in using the equipment and software effectively to improve their instruction. The salary is covered by the grant.[289] The program was funded from 2006–2009. Warrior Run School District did not seek funding in 2006–07 nor in 2007–08. The District received $102,676 in 2008–09.[290] Among the public school districts in Northumberland County the highest award was given to Shikellamy School District which received $373,690. The highest funding statewide was awarded to Philadelphia City School District in Philadelphia County - $9,409,073. The grant program was discontinued by Governor Edward Rendell as part of the 2009-10 state budget.

Other grants

Warrior Run School District did not participate in: the state's Science Its Elementary grant (discontinued effective with 2009-10 budget by Governor Rendell) [291] the Education Assistance Grant for tutoring for struggling students; Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection's Environmental Education annual grants;[292] the state's Striving Readers Comprehensive Literacy RTTT federal grant;[293] 2012 and 2013 Pennsylvania Hybrid Learning Grants,[294] nor the federal 21st Century Learning grants.

Federal Stimulus funding

Warrior Run School District received $1,297,635 in ARRA – Federal Stimulus money to be used in specific programs like special education and meeting the academic needs of low-income students.[295] The funding was limited to the 2009-10 and 2010-2011 school years.[296] Due to the temporary nature of the funding, schools were repeatedly advised to use the funds for one-time expenditures like acquiring equipment, making repairs to buildings, training teachers to provide more effective instruction or purchasing books and software.

Race to the Top grant

Warrior Run School District officials did not apply for the Race to the Top federal grant which would have brought the district hundreds of thousands of additional federal dollars for improving student academic achievement.[297] Participation required the administration, the school board and the local teachers' union to sign an agreement to prioritize improving student academic success. In Pennsylvania, 120 public school districts and 56 charter schools agreed to participate.[298] Pennsylvania was not approved for the grant. The failure of districts to agree to participate was cited as one reason that Pennsylvania was not approved.[299]

Common Cents state initiative

The Warrior Run School Board elected to not participate in the Pennsylvania Department of Education Common Cents program. The program called for the state to audit the district, at no cost to local taxpayers, to identify ways the district could save tax dollars.[300] After the review of the information, the district was not required to implement the recommended cost savings changes.

Real estate taxes

Warrior Run School Board set property tax rates for 2015-16 at 11.71 mills for districts residents whose property is in Anthony Township and Limestone Township in Montour County, at 63.6500 mills for property in Northumberland County and 11.09 mills for Gregg Township, Union County properties.[301] A mill is $1 of tax for every $1,000 of a property's assessed value. Irregular property reassessments have become a serious issue in the commonwealth as it creates a significant disparity in taxation within a community and across a region.[302] Property taxes, in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, apply only to real estate - land and buildings. The property tax is not levied on cars, business inventory, or other personal property. Certain types of property are exempt from property taxes, including: places of worship, places of burial, private social clubs, charitable and educational institutions and government property. Additionally, service related, disabled US military veterans may seek an exemption from paying property taxes. Pennsylvania school district revenues are dominated by two main sources: 1) Property tax collections, which account for the vast majority (between 75-85%) of local revenues; and 2) Act 511 tax collections, which are around 15% of revenues for school districts.[303] Property taxes are complicated in the district because it includes eight municipalities in three counties, each of which has different rates of property tax assessment, necessitating a state board equalization of the tax rates between the counties.

Property tax rates in 2009–10 were complicated by an error of the Pennsylvania State Tax Equalization Board. The Board establishes the market aid ratio for each community which is used in the calculation. The board produced erroneous numbers for 2010, which lead to a community protest. The numbers were eventually corrected.[310] An audit of the agency, called for by local legislators, revealed that the STEB's documentation of municipalities showed 65 percent of the sample contained one or more deficiencies.[311] The problem continued in the 2010-11 budget year.

The average yearly property tax paid by Northumberland County residents amounts to about 2.23% of their yearly income. Northumberland County ranked 1219th out of the 3143 United States counties for property taxes as a percentage of median income.[312] Property taxes in Pennsylvania are relatively high on a national scale. According to the Tax Foundation, Pennsylvania ranked 11th in the U.S. in 2008 in terms of property taxes paid as a percentage of home value (1.34%) and 12th in the country in terms of property taxes as a percentage of income (3.55%).[313] According to a report prepared by the Pennsylvania Department of Education, the total real estate taxes collected by all school districts in Pennsylvania rose from $6,474,133,936 in 1999-00 to $10,438,463,356 in 2008-09.[314]

Act 1 Index

The Special Session Act 1 of 2006 Index regulates the rates at which each school district can raise property taxes in Pennsylvania. Districts are not permitted to raise taxes above that index unless they allow voters to vote by referendum, or they seek an exception from the state Department of Education. The base index for the 2011–2012 school year is 1.4 percent, but it can be adjusted higher on a per district basis by the Pennsylvania Department of Education, depending on a number of factors, such as local property values (Market Aid Ratio) and the personal income of district residents. Act 1 included 10 exceptions, including: increasing pension costs, increases in special education costs, a catastrophe like a fire or flood, increasing health care costs for contracts in effect in 2006 or dwindling tax bases. The base index is the average of the percentage increase in the statewide average weekly wage, as determined by the Pennsylvania Department of Labor and Industry, for the preceding calendar year and the percentage increase in the Employment Cost Index for Elementary and Secondary Schools, as determined by the Bureau of Labor Statistics in the U.S. Department of Labor, for the previous 12-month period ending June 30. For a school district with a market value/personal income aid ratio (MV/PI AR) greater than 0.4000, its index equals the base index multiplied by the sum of .75 and its MV/PI AR for the current year.[315] In June 2011, the Pennsylvania General Assembly eliminated six of the ten exceptions to the Act 1 Index.[316] Several exceptions were maintained: 1) costs to pay interest and principal on indebtedness incurred prior to September 4, 2004 for Act 72 schools and prior to June 27, 2006 for non-Act 72 schools; 2) costs to pay interest and principal on electoral debt; 3) costs incurred in providing special education programs and services (beyond what is already paid by the State); and 4) costs due to increases of more than the Index in the school’s share of payments to PSERS (PA school employees pension fund) taking into account the state mandated PSERS contribution rate.[317][318]

The School District Adjusted Index for the Warrior Run School District 2006–2007 through 2012–2013.[319]

  • 2006–07 - 5.2%, Base 3.9%
  • 2007–08 - 4.6%, Base 3.4%
  • 2008–09 - 5.9%, Base 4.4%
  • 2009–10 - 5.5%, Base 4.1%
  • 2010–11 - 3.9%, Base 2.9%
  • 2011–12 - 1.9%, Base 1.4%

  • 2012–13 - 2.3%, Base 2.2% [320]
  • 2013-14 - 2.3%, Base 1.7%
  • 2014-15 - 2.8%, Base 2.1%
  • 2015-16 - 2.6%, Base 1.9%[321]
  • 2016-17 - 3.2%, Base 2.4%[322][323]

For the 2015-16 budget year, Warrior Run School Board applied for two exceptions to exceed their Act 1 Index limit: for special education cost and for its rapidly rising teacher pension costs. For the school budget 2015-16, 310 Pennsylvania public school districts adopted a resolution certifying that tax rates would not be increased above its Act 1 Index limit. Another 187 school districts adopted a preliminary budget leaving open the option of exceeding the Index limit. Regarding the pension costs exception, 172 school districts received approval to exceed the Index limit in full, while others received a partial approval of their request. For special education costs, 119 districts received approval to exceed their tax limit. No Pennsylvania public school districts received an approval for the grandfathered construction debts exception.[324]

For the 2014-15 budget year, Warrior Run School Board applied for an exception to exceed their Act 1 Index limit, due to rapidly escalating teacher pension costs. The District's cost for the teacher's pensions payment to PSERS will be over $2 million in 2014-15.[325] For the school budget 2014-15, 316 Pennsylvania public school districts adopted a resolution certifying that tax rates would not be increased above its Act 1 Index limit. Another 181 school districts adopted a preliminary budget leaving open the option of exceeding the Index limit. Districts may apply for multiple exceptions each year. For the pension costs exception, 163 school districts received approval to exceed the Index in full, while others received a partial approval of their request. For special education costs, 104 districts received approval to exceed their tax limit. Seven Pennsylvania public school districts received an approval for the grandfathered construction debts exception.[326]

For the 2013-14 budget year, Warrior Run School Board applied for an exception to exceed their Act 1 Index limit due to rapidly increasing teacher pension costs. The pension payment cost for 2013-14 was $1.58 million.[327] For the school budget year 2013-14, 311 Pennsylvania public school districts adopted a resolution certifying that tax rates would not be increased above their index. Another 171 school districts adopted a preliminary budget leaving open the option of exceeded the Index limit. For the exception for pension costs, 89 school districts received approval to exceed the Index in full while others received a partial approval of their request. For special education costs, 75 districts received approval to exceed their tax limit. For the pension costs exception, 169 school districts received approval to exceed the Index. Eleven Pennsylvania public school districts received an approval for grandfathered construction debts.[328]

For the 2012-13 school budget year, Warrior Run School Board applied for an exception to exceed the Act 1 Index for teacher pension costs. For 2012-2013, 274 school districts adopted a resolution certifying that tax rates would not be increased above their index; 223 school districts adopted a preliminary budget leaving open the option of exceeded the Index limit. For the exception for pension costs, 194 school districts received approval to exceed the Index. For special education costs, 129 districts received approval to exceed the tax limit. For the exception for pension costs, 194 school districts received approval to exceed the Index. For special education costs, 129 districts received approval to exceed the tax limit.[329]

For the 2011–12 school year, the Warrior Run School Board applied for two exceptions to exceed the Act 1 Index. They were for special education costs and for increasing employee pension costs. Each year the Warrior Run School Board has the option of adopting either 1) a resolution in January certifying they will not increase taxes above their index or 2) a preliminary budget in February. A school district adopting the resolution may not apply for referendum exceptions or ask voters for a tax increase above the inflation index. A specific timeline for these decisions is publisher each year by the Pennsylvania Department of Education.[330]

According to a state report, for the 2011–2012 school year budgets, 247 school districts adopted a resolution certifying that tax rates would not be increased above their index; 250 school districts adopted a preliminary budget. Of the 250 school districts that adopted a preliminary budget, 231 adopted real estate tax rates that exceeded their index. Tax rate increases in the other 19 school districts that adopted a preliminary budget did not exceed the school district’s index. Of the districts who sought exceptions 221 used the pension costs exemption and 171 sought a Special Education costs exemption. Only 1 school district sought an exemption for Nonacademic School Construction Project, while 1 sought an exception for Electoral debt for school construction.[331] For the 2010 budget the Warrior Run School Board did not apply for any exceptions to exceed the Act 1 index limit.[332] In the Spring of 2010, 135 Pennsylvania school boards asked to exceed their adjusted index. Approval was granted to 133 of them and 128 sought an exception for pension costs increases.[333]

In January 2010, the Warrior Run School Board did not apply for exceptions to exceed the index. In the Spring of 2010, 135 Pennsylvania school boards asked to exceed their adjusted index. Approval was granted to 133 of them and 128 sought an exception for pension costs increases.[334] In 2009, the Warrior Run School Board did not apply for any Act 1 Exceptions.[335]

Property tax relief

In 2013-14, Warrior Run School District's homestead exemption applicants received $105 in tax relief. In 2013, 3,798 homesteads and farmers applied for relief.[336] The District receives a fixed amount from the State's Gaming fund, which must be divided equally among the applicants, with farm owners receiving a double payment. The relief was subtracted from the total annual school property tax bill. Property owners apply for the relief through the county Treasurer's office. Farmers can qualify for a farmstead exemption on building used for agricultural purposes. The farm must be at least 10 contiguous acres and must be the primary residence of the owner. Farmers can qualify for both the homestead exemption and the farmstead exemption. In Northumberland County the highest amount of relief in 2009 went to Shikellamy School District. The highest property tax relief in Pennsylvania went to the residents of Chester Upland School District of Delaware County who received $631 per approved homestead.[337]

According to a Pennsylvania Auditor General report, only 55.32% of Northumberland County residents applied for property tax relief from gaming in 2009.[342]

Additionally, the Pennsylvania Property Tax/Rent Rebate program is provided for low income Pennsylvanians aged 65 and older; widows and widowers aged 50 and older; and people with disabilities age 18 and older. The income limit is $35,000 for homeowners. The maximum rebate for both homeowners and renters is $650. Applicants can exclude one-half (1/2) of their Social Security income, so people who make substantially more than $35,000 may still qualify for a rebate. Individuals must apply annually for the rebate.

Enrollment

In April 2011, Superintendent John Kurelja, reported that the district has been experiencing a significant decline in enrollment over the past five years. The state permits furloughs of staff when enrollment declines 1.4% annually. Warrior Run has declined 1.9% per year.[343] The district is examining the realignment of staffing to reduce expenses. On a local radio program, Superintendent John Kurelja reported that the district has experienced a 9% decline in enrollment from 2006 to 2011, which indicates a realignment of programs and staffing is necessary.[344] He anticipates decreasing the staffing per state guidelines through staff retirements and furloughs to address a $450,000 budget deficit.

According to the Pennsylvania Department of Education, there are 1681 students enrolled in K-12 for the 2009 school year. There were 146 students in the Class of 2009. The class of 2010 had 136 students. Enrollment in Warrior Run School District is projected to continue to decline by another 150 students by 2017.[345] Warrior Run School District administrative costs in 2008 were $631.78 per pupil. The lowest administrative cost per pupil in Pennsylvania was $398 per pupil.[346] In 2009, Governor Edward Rendell proposed consolidation of school district administrations with adjacent school districts in the respective county to reduce the total number of school districts from 500 to 100. The proposal called for excessive administrative overhead dollars to be redirected to: improve lagging academic achievement, to enrich the academic programs or to substantially reduce local property taxes.[347] According to Governor Rendell, the consolidation of central administrations into one would not require the closing of any schools.[348]

Over the next 10 years, rural Pennsylvania school enrollment is projected to decrease 8 percent.[349] As the enrollment declines, per pupil administrative costs of the schools will continue to rise.

Pennsylvania has one of the highest numbers of school districts in the nation. In Pennsylvania, 80% of the school districts serve student populations under 5,000, and 40% serve less than 2,000.[350] This results in excessive school administration bureaucracy and not enough course diversity.[351] In a survey of 88 superintendents of small districts, 42% of the respondents stated that they thought consolidation would save money without closing any schools.[352]

Wellness policy

Warrior Run School Board established a district wellness policy in 2006 – Policy 246.[353] The policy deals with nutritious meals served at school, the control of access to some foods and beverages during school hours, age appropriate nutrition education for all students, and physical education for students K-12. The policy is in response to state mandates and federal legislation (P.L. 108 – 265). The law dictates that each school district participating in a program authorized by the Richard B. Russell National School Lunch Act (42 U.S.C. 1751 et seq) or the Child Nutrition Act of 1966 (42 U.S.C. 1771 et seq) "shall establish a local school wellness policy by School Year 2006."

The legislation placed the responsibility of developing a wellness policy at the local level so the individual needs of each district can be addressed. According to the requirements for the Local Wellness Policy, school districts must set goals for nutrition education, physical activity that are aligned with the Pennsylvania State Academic Standards for Health, Safety and Physical Education, campus food provision, and other school-based activities designed to promote student wellness. Additionally, districts were required to involve a broad group of individuals in policy development and to have a plan for measuring policy implementation. Districts were offered a choice of levels of implementation for limiting or prohibiting low nutrition foods on the school campus. In final implementation these regulations prohibit some foods and beverages on the school campus.[354] The Pennsylvania Department of Education required the district to submit a copy of the policy for its approval.

The Warrior Run School District provides both a free breakfast and a free lunch to children whose families meet federal poverty levels. All students attending the school can eat breakfast and lunch. Children from families with incomes at or below 130 percent of the federal poverty level are provided a breakfast and lunch at no cost to the family. Children from families with incomes between 130 and 185 percent of the federal poverty level can be charged no more than 30 cents per breakfast. A foster child whose care and placement is the responsibility of the State or who is placed by a court with a caretaker household is eligible for both a free breakfast and a free lunch. Runaway, homeless and Migrant Youth are also automatically eligible for free meals.[355] The meals are partially funded with federal dollars through the United States Department of Agriculture.[356]

In 2013, the USDA issued new restrictions to foods in public schools. The rules apply to foods and beverages sold on all public school district campuses during the day. They limit vending machine snacks to a maximum of 200 calories per item. Additionally, all snack foods sold at school must meet competitive nutrient standards, meaning they must have fruits, vegetables, dairy or protein in them or contain at least 10 percent of the daily value of fiber, calcium, potassium, and Vitamin D.[357] In order to comply with the Healthy, Hunger-Free Kids Act of 2010 all US public school districts are required to raise the price of their school lunches to $2.60 regardless of the actual cost of the lunch.[358]

Warrior Run School District provides health services as mandated by the Commonwealth and the federal government. Nurses are available in each building to conduct annual health screenings (data reported to the PDE and state Department of Health) and to dispense prescribed medications to students during the school day. Students can be excluded from school unless they comply with all the State Department of Health’s extensive immunization mandates. School nurses monitor each pupil for this compliance.[359] Nurses also monitor each child's weight.

In 2016, the Pennsylvania Department of Health distributed to each Pennsylvania public high school the overdose antidote drug naloxone in a nasal spray. School nurses were also provided with educational materials and training developed by the National Association of School Nurses.[360] The cost was covered by a grant from a private foundation.[361]

Extracurriculars

The Warrior Run School District offers a variety of extracurriculars, including clubs, activities and an extensive and costly sports.[362][363] Eligibility to participate is determined by school board policy.[364] A student must be passing four full-credit courses on a weekly basis to participate in interscholastic competition. The sports programs are through the Pennsylvania Heartland Athletic Conference and the Pennsylvania Interscholastic Athletic Association.[365] The Pennsylvania Heartland Athletic Conference is a voluntary association of 25 PIAA High Schools within the central Pennsylvania region. All students who participate in sports and cheerleading are charged a $40.00 activity fee at the beginning of the season. This is a one-time fee for the year, not by the activity.[366]

In December 2011, the District's athletic trainer was charged with sexually assaulting a student.[367] The trainer operates a training room with equipment for the athletes.

According to Pennsylvania’s Safety in Youth Sports Act, all sports coaches, paid and volunteer, are required to annually complete the Concussion Management Certification Training and present the certification before coaching.[368][369]

By Pennsylvania law, all K-12 aged students in the district, including those who attend a private nonpublic school, public cyber charter school, public charter school and those homeschooled, are eligible to participate in the extracurricular programs, including all athletics. They must meet the same eligibility rules as the students enrolled in the district's schools.[370]

Sports

The District funds:

Boys

Girls
  • Basketball - AA
  • Cross Country - AA
  • Field Hockey - AA
  • Golf - AA
  • Soccer (Fall) - AA
  • Softball - Varsity and JV teams AA
  • Track and Field - AA

Middle School Sports

Boys
  • Basketball
  • Football
  • Soccer
  • Wrestling

Girls
  • Basketball
  • Field Hockey

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  134. "8th Grade PSSA Science 2010 Central Pennsylvania Region IU16". 2010.
  135. Pennsylvania Department of Education (August 2008). "2008 PSSA Science State Level Proficiency Results by Grade and State Total (Full Academic Year)".
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  142. Pennsylvania Department of Education PSSA Results Math and Reading School 2008
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  144. Office of First Lady (September 2, 2014). "Pennsylvania First Lady and Acting Secretary of Education Announce 35 Schools Statewide Implementing Dropout Program".
  145. Pennsylvania Department of Education (2014). "The Early Warning System".
  146. Pennsylvania Department of Education (November 6, 2014). "Turbotville Elementary School Fast Facts 2014".
  147. Pennsylvania Department of Education, School Performance Profile, Turbotville Elementary School Fast Facts, 2014
  148. National Center for Education Statistics, Common Care Data - Turbotville Elementary School, 2010
  149. Pennsylvania Department of Education, 2016 PSSA AND KEYSTONE Results, September 29, 2016
  150. Jan Murphy (September 29, 2016). "Standardized test scores show Pa. schools have more work to do". Pennlive.com.
  151. Pennsylvania Department of Education (October 1, 2015). "2015 PSSA School Level Data".
  152. Pennsylvania Department of Education (October 1, 2015). "2015 PSSA State Level Data".
  153. Pennsylvania Department of Education (November 6, 2014). "Turbotville Elementary School Academic Performance Data 2014".
  154. Pennsylvania Department of Education (October 4, 2013). "Turbotville Elementary School Academic Performance Data 2013".
  155. Pennsylvania Department of Education (September 21, 2012). "Turbotville Elementary School AYP Overview".
  156. Pennsylvania State Board of Education (2003). "PSSA results 2003".
  157. New America Foundation (2003). "No Child Left Behind Overview".
  158. The Goals of No Child Left Behind (Jul 20, 2010). "The Goals of No Child Left Behind".
  159. Learning Point Associates (220). "Understanding the No Child Left Behind Act" (PDF).
  160. Pennsylvania State Board of Education (January 11, 2003). "Pennsylvania Academic Standards Science and Technology, Ecology and Environment".
  161. Pennsylvania Department of Education (September 21, 2012). "Turbotville Elementary School Academic Achievement Report Card 2012" (PDF).
  162. Pennsylvania Department of Education, Turbotville Elementary School Academic Achievement Report Card 2010, October 20, 2010
  163. 4th Grade Reading 2010 Central Pennsylvania IU16 Region Ranking, 2010
  164. Pennsylvania Department of Education, Turbotville Elementary School Academic Achievement Report Card 2009, September 14, 2009
  165. Pennsylvania Department of Education, Turbotville Elementary School Academic Achievement Report Card 2008, August 15, 2008
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  168. Pennsylvania Department of Education, Turbotville Elementary School Academic Achievement Report Card 2011, September 29, 2011
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  173. Pennsylvania Department of Education (October 1, 2015). "2015 PSSA School Level Data".
  174. Pennsylvania Department of Education (October 1, 2015). "2015 PSSA State Level Data".
  175. Pennsylvania Department of Education (November 6, 2014). "Watsonville Elementary School Academic Performance Data 2014".
  176. Pennsylvania Department of Education (October 4, 2013). "Watsontown Elementary School Academic Performance Data 2013".
  177. Pennsylvania Department of Education (September 21, 2012). "Watsontown Elementary School Academic Achievement Report Card 2012" (PDF).
  178. Pennsylvania Department of Education, Watsontown Elementary School Academic Achievement Report Card 2011, September 29, 2011
  179. Pennsylvania Department of Education (September 21, 2012). "Watsonville Elementary School Academic Achievement Report Card 2012" (PDF).
  180. Pennsylvania Department of Education, Watsonville Elementary School Academic Achievement Report Card 2011, September 29, 2011
  181. Pennsylvania Department of Education, Watsonville Elementary School Academic Achievement Report Card 2010, October 20, 2010
  182. Pennsylvania Department of Education, Watsonville Elementary School Academic Achievement Report Card 2009, September 14, 2009
  183. Pennsylvania Department of Education, Watsonville Elementary School Academic Achievement Report Card 2008, August 15, 2008
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  186. Pennsylvania Department of Education, Watsontown Elementary School Academic Achievement Report Card 2010, 2010
  187. "Warrior Run School District School Safety Annual Report 2015" (PDF). 2016.
  188. "Warrior Run School District School Safety Annual Report 2013" (PDF). 2013.
  189. "Warrior Run School District School Safety Annual Report 2008 – 2009" (PDF). 2009.
  190. "Pennsylvania Safe Schools Online Reports". 2009.
  191. The Daily Item (January 25, 2010). "Warrior Run responds to bullying incident,".
  192. Warrior Run School District administration (December 2008). "Warrior Run School Board Policy 249" (PDF).
  193. Regular Session 2007–2008 House Bill 1067, Act 61 Section 6 page 8
  194. Center for Safe Schools of Pennsylvania (2014). "Bullying Prevention advisory".
  195. Pennsylvania Academic Standards
  196. Pennsylvania Department of Education (February 21, 2014). "Acting Secretary of Education Announces $2.6 Million in Safe Schools Targeted Grants".
  197. Pennsylvania Department of Education (May 31, 2013). "Warrior Run School Report" (PDF).
  198. Marcia Moore (June 18, 2014). "Mom files 2nd lawsuit vs. WR over special ed". The Daily Item.
  199. Pennsylvania Department of Education (May 31, 2013). "Warrior Run School Report" (PDF).
  200. Pennsylvania Department of Education (May 31, 2013). "Warrior Run School Report" (PDF).
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  202. Gerald L. Zahorchak, D. Ed. (May 30, 2007). "House Education Committee Hearing on Governor's Proposed Increase for Accountability Block Grants Testimony for Gerald L. Zahorchak, D. Ed. Secretary, Pennsylvania Department of Education" (PDF).
  203. Warrior Run Special Education Department. "Annual Parent Notice Warrior Run School District".
  204. Chapter 14 Legal Rights
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  206. Pennsylvania Department of Education. "Pennsylvania Special Education Funding".
  207. Senator Patrick Browne (November 1, 2011). "Senate Education Committee Holds Hearing on Special Education Funding & Accountability".
  208. Pennsylvania Department of Education Amy Morton, Executive Deputy Secretary (November 11, 2011). "Public Hearing: Special Education Funding & Accountability Testimony".
  209. Baruch Kintisch Education Law Center (November 11, 2011). "Public Hearing: Special Education Funding & Accountability Testimony" (PDF).
  210. Amy Morton, Executive Deputy Secretary, Public Hearing: Special Education Funding & Accountability Testimony, Pennsylvania Department of Education, November 11, 2011
  211. US Department of Education, U.S. Department of Education Clarifies Schools' Obligation to Provide Equal Opportunity to Students with Disabilities to Participate in Extracurricular Athletics, January 25, 2013
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  214. PDE, BED funding report Special education, July 2016
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  216. Pennsylvania Bureau of Special Education. "CHAPTER 16. Special Education For Gifted Students". Retrieved February 4, 2011.
  217. Pennsylvania Department of Education (March 26, 2010). "Special Education for Gifted Students Notice of Parental rights" (PDF).
  218. Pennsylvania General Assembly, Taxpayer Relief Act, Act 1 of the Special Session of 2006, June 27, 2006
  219. Joe Sylvester (October 7, 2015). "Warrior Run contract delivers annual pay increases". The Daily Item.
  220. Openpagov.org (2015). "Warrior Run Payroll report 2013-14".
  221. Ashley Wislock (January 22, 2013). "Contract talks to resume in Warrior Run School District".
  222. Diane S. Mulligan (May 2, 2013). "In the Matter of the Employees of Warrior run School District" (PDF).
  223. Ashley Wislock (June 27, 2013). "Warrior Run School District reaches contract agreement with teachers". The Daily Item.
  224. 1 2 Pennsylvania Department of Education (2013). "Investing in Pennsylvania Students".
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  227. American Enterprise Institute, (2011). "Assessing the Compensation of Public School Teachers".
  228. Asbury Park Press (2009). "PA. Public School Salaries".
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  230. Warrior Run School Board (2011). "Warrior Run School District Teacher Union Employment Contract 2010".
  231. Fenton, Jacob, Average classroom teacher salary in Northumberland County, 2006–07. The Morning Call. Retrieved April 2010.
  232. PA Delaware County Times, Teachers need to know enough is enough, April 20, 2010.
  233. Fenton, Jacob. Pennsylvania School District Data: Will School Consolidation Save Money?, The Morning Call, Feb 2009.
  234. Laepple, Wayne The Daily Item (November 12, 2010). "Warrior Run selects next chief".
  235. Laepple, Wayne, Warrior Run board OKs tentative $18.2M budget, The Daily Item. April 15, 2008
  236. Laepple, Wayne, Warrior Run district school chief to retire, The Daily Item. June 29, 2010
  237. Kevin Mertz The Standard Journal, $40K increase in admin. salaries approved at WR, June 24, 2014
  238. Rep Fred Keller; PA General Assembly (2014). "Warrior Run SD District Salary Increases 2000-01 thru 2012-13" (PDF).
  239. "Per Pupil Spending in Pennsylvania Public Schools in 2008 Sort Spending". 2009.
  240. Pennsylvania Department of Education (2010). "2009-10 Selected Data - 2009-10 Total Expenditures per ADM".
  241. United States Census Bureau (2009). "States Ranked According to Per Pupil Elementary-Secondary Public School System Finance Amounts: 2008-09" (PDF).
  242. US Census Bureau (2009). "Total and current expenditures per pupil in fall enrollment in public elementary and secondary education, by function and state or jurisdiction: 2006-07".
  243. Joe Sylvester., Warrior Run Hands out raises, The Daily Item, June 28, 2016
  244. Pennsylvania Department of Education. "Fund Balances by Local Education Agency 1997 to 2008".
  245. Murphy, Jan., Pennsylvania's public schools boost reserves, CentreDaily Times, September 22, 2010
  246. Melissa Daniels (June 1, 2013). "PA school districts look to cash stash to balance budgets". PA Independent.
  247. Pennsylvania Department of Education (July 5, 2014). "Investing in Pennsylvania Students".
  248. Jan Murphy (June 15, 2016). "Search the database: How much is in your school district's fund balance?".
  249. Pennsylvania Auditor General (January 2009). "Warrior Run School District Northumberland County PERFORMANCE AUDIT REPORT".
  250. Pennsylvania Auditor General (January 9, 2013). "Warrior Run School District Northumberland County PERFORMANCE AUDIT REPORT" (PDF).
  251. Pennsylvania Department of Education (May 2012). "Pennsylvania Public School District Tuition Rates".
  252. Laepple, Wayne (June 23, 2009). "Board decreases millage for most: Warrior Run approves $19.5M budget for 2009–10,". The Daily Item,.
  253. Warrior Run OKs Millage Increase, Wayne Laepple, The Daily Item, June 28, 2011
  254. PA Labor Board Diana Mulligan (May 30, 2013). "Warrior Run School District Fact Finding Report".
  255. Penn State Cooperative Extension (2010). "What are the Local Taxes in Pennsylvania?, Local Tax Reform Education Project" (PDF).
  256. Pennsylvania Department of Revenue (April 2010). "Personal Income Taxation Guidelines".
  257. John Finnerty (2013). "PA teachers pensions". CNHI Harrisburg Bureau.
  258. Pennsylvania Representative Todd Stephens (January 23, 2014). "LEEF Funding Chart 2014".
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  260. Pennsylvania Department of Eductaion, Education Budget 2016-17, July 2016
  261. PDE, Special Education Funding fiscal year 2016-17, July 2017
  262. PA Office of Budget, Commonwealth 2016-17 Enacted Budget Line-Item Appropriations, July 2016
  263. Jan Murphey (January 4, 2016). "Here's the payout your school district gets from the partial 2015-16 state budget". Pennlive.com.
  264. Jennifer Wakeman (January 4, 2016). "Harrisburg releases $3.3 billion in delayed funds".
  265. Pennsylvania General Assembly (June 26, 2015). "Basic Education Funding Commission".
  266. Jan Murphy (January 6, 2016). "School funding distribution gives rise to new battle between Wolf, GOP lawmakers". PennLive.com.
  267. Pennsylvania Department of Education (January 2016). "Summary of State Appropriations for Education 2015-2016 Fiscal Year Education Budget".
  268. Pennsylvania Department of Education, EdBudget 2015-16 BEF, April 6, 2016
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  270. PDE (July 7, 2014). "Enacted Education Budget 2014-2015".
  271. Pennsylvania Department of Education, 2014-15 Enacted Education Budget Fast Facts, July 14, 2014
  272. Democrat Appropriations Committee, Report on Education funding by LEA, July 2, 2013
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  275. Pennsylvania General Assembly Sen Jake Corman (June 29, 2012). "SB1466 of 2012 General Fund Appropriation".
  276. PA Senate Appropriations Committee (June 28, 2011). "School District 2011–12 funding Report".
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  281. Office of the Budget (February 2010). "Pennsylvania Budget Proposal 2010".
  282. Pennsylvania Department of Education Basic Education Funding report October 2009
  283. Pennsylvania Department of Education report on School District Funding 2009–10. publicly released October 2009.
  284. Office of Budget (February 2010). "Governor's Budget Proposal 2010".
  285. Pennsylvania Department of Education – Accountability Block Grant report 2010, Grantee list 2010
  286. Accountability Block Grant Mid Year report
  287. Accountability Block Grant Mid Year Report 2009-10
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  289. Scott, Rob, (September 7, 2007). "New Software enhances Core Subjects". The Daily Item.
  290. Pennsylvania Auditor General (December 22, 2008). "CFF grants audit" (PDF).
  291. Pennsylvania Department of Education, Science: It’s Elementary Grantees Students in 143 Schools Benefit from Intensive Science Curriculum, July 22, 2008
  292. Department of Environmental Protection (2014). "Environmental Education Grants".
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  294. Pennsylvania Department of Education Press Office (October 17, 2013). "Acting Secretary of Education Says Hybrid Learning Benefits Students; Highlights Success of First-Year Pilot Program".
  295. Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. "Northumberland County ARRA FUNDING Report".
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  300. Pennsylvania Department of Education. "Common Cents program – Making Every Dollar Count". Retrieved February 1, 2011.
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  303. Pennsylvania Department of Education (2004). "Act 511 Tax Report".
  304. Warrior Run School Board, Budget Public Public Notice, May 2013
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  310. Scarcella, Francis, The Daily Item (June 24, 2010). "STEB fumbles again: $29M at Warrior Run".
  311. Pennsylvania Auditor General (February 2011). "A Special Performance Audit of the State Tax Equalization Board Certification of Market Values" (PDF).
  312. Tax-rates.org., The 2013 Tax Resource County Property Taxes 2012, 2012
  313. Tax Foundation (September 22, 2009). "New Census Data on Property Taxes on Homeowners".
  314. Pennsylvania Department of Education (2009). "Pennsylvania School Finances - Summaries of Annual Financial Report Data 2008-09".
  315. Pennsylvania Department of Education (2006). "2010–11 Act 1 of 2006 Referendum Exception Guidelines".
  316. Kaitlynn Riely (August 4, 2011). "Law could restrict school construction projects". Pittsburgh Post-Gazette.
  317. Pennsylvania General Assembly (June 29, 2011). "SB330 of 2011".
  318. Eric Boehm (July 1, 2011). "Property tax reform final piece of state budget". PA Independent.
  319. Pennsylvania Department of Education (September 2011). "Special Session Act 1 of 2006 School District Adjusted Index for 2006–2007 through 2012–2013".
  320. Pennsylvania Department of Education (May 2011). "2012-2013 School District Adjusted Index Listing".
  321. Pennsylvania Department of Education, 2015-2016 School District Adjusted Index, September 2014
  322. Pennsylvania Department of Education. "2016-2017 School District Adjusted Index, September 5, 2015".
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  325. Ashley Wislock, W.R. mulls $21.8 million budget, The Daily Item, May 8, 2014
  326. Pennsylvania Department of Education (April 30, 2014). "Report on Referendum Exceptions For School Year 2014-2015".
  327. Warrior Run School District Business Office, Presentation on 2014-15 Final Budget Proposal, May 8, 2014
  328. Pennsylvania Department of Education, Report on Referendum Exceptions For School Year 2013-2014, April 2013
  329. Pennsylvania Department of Education, Report on Referendum Exceptions For School Year 2012-2013, March 30, 2012
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  331. Pennsylvania Department of Education (April 2011). "Report on Exceptions".
  332. Pennsylvania Department of Education, Pennsylvania SSAct1_Act1 Exceptions Report 2010-2011, April 2010
  333. Scarcella, Frank & Pursell, Tricia (May 25, 2010). "Local school tax assessments exceed state averages". The Daily Item.
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  335. Pennsylvania Department of Education, Pennsylvania SSAct1 Exception requests Report_2009-2010, May 2009
  336. Pennsylvania Department of Education, Tax Relief Per Household 2013-14, May 2013
  337. Pennsylvania Department of Education Report (May 1, 2011). "Tax Relief per Homestead 2011,".
  338. Pennsylvania Department of Education (2011). "2011–2012 Property Tax Relief Information Northumberland County".
  339. Pennsylvania Department of Education (May 1, 2010). "Tax Relief per Homestead".
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  342. Pennsylvania Department of Auditor General Department of Performance Audits (February 2010). "A Special Report: Property Tax Relief in Pennsylvania" (PDF).
  343. Wayne Laepple (April 26, 2011). "Warrior Run ponders layoffs".
  344. WKOK 1070AM – Roundtable radio program (May 1, 2011). "Dr. John Kurelja, superintendent Warrior Run Area School District, on school vouchers, teacher furloughs and more".
  345. Pennsylvania Department of Education Warrior Run School District Enrollment and Projections January 2009.
  346. Fenton, Jacob. "Pennsylvania School District Data: Will School Consolidation Save Money?, District Administrative cost.". The Morning Call.
  347. Edward Rendell, Governor and Mary Soderberg, Secretary of the Budget. February 2009. "2009–10 Executive Budget Facts Pennsylvania School District Consolidation," (PDF).
  348. Pennsylvania Department of Education. "Pennsylvania Public School Enrollments by school district P-Y 2008–09".
  349. The Center for Rural Pennsylvania. (October 2009). "Research Analyzes Rural School District Enrollment and Building Capacity" (PDF).
  350. Legislative Budget and Finance Committee Report on school consolidation
  351. Rendell, E. & Soderberg, M. (2009). Pennsylvania school district consolidation. 2009–10 Executive Budget Fast Facts. Pennsylvania Office of the Governor.
  352. [Study of the cost-effectiveness of consolidating Pennsylvania districts. New York: Standard & Poor’s School Evaluation Services. 2007, p. 6.
  353. Warrior Run School Board Policy Manual
  354. Pennsylvania Department of Education Division of Food and Nutrition, Nutrition Standards for Competitive Foods in Pennsylvania Schools for the School Nutrition Incentive, July 2008
  355. USDA, Child Nutrition Programs - Eligibility Manual for School Meals, 2012
  356. Pennsylvania Hunger Action Center, The Pennsylvania School Breakfast Report Card, 2009
  357. USDA, Child Nutrition Programs, June 27, 2013
  358. United States Department of Agriculture (2011). "Food and Nutrition Service Equity in School Lunch Pricing Fact Sheet" (PDF).
  359. Pennsylvania State Department of Health (2010). "Pennsylvania Bulletin Doc. No. 10-984 School Immunizations; Communicable and Noncommunicable Diseases".
  360. York Dispatch (February 4, 2016). "All PA high schools to receive donated naloxone kits".
  361. Ben Allen (February 2, 2016). "Pa. to put drug that reverses overdoses in schools for free". WITF.
  362. Pennsylvania Department of Education (2013). "Disclosure of Interscholastic Athletic Opportunities".
  363. Warrior Run School Board, General Fund Annual Budget 2013, 2013
  364. Warriror Run School Board. "Warrior Run School Board Policy Manual Extracurriculars Policy 122, Interscholastic Athletics Policy 123 and Extracurricular Participation by Home Education Students Policy 137.1".
  365. "Pennsylvania Heartland Athletic Conference School list". 2012.
  366. Warrior Run School District, Student Handbook, 2013
  367. Socha, Evamarie. Warrior Run athletic trainer charged with sexually assaulting, The Daily Item", December 30, 2011
  368. PA General Assembly (July 1, 2012). "Senate Bill 200 of Session 2011 Safety in Youth Sports Act".
  369. UMPC Sports Medicine (2014). "Managing Concussions in Student Athletes: The Safety in Youth Sports Act".
  370. Home-Schooled, Charter School Children Can Participate in School District Extracurricular Activities, Pennsylvania Office of the Governor Press Release, November 10, 2005
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