Armstrong School District (Pennsylvania)

Armstrong School District
Working Together for Academic Excellence
Address
410 Main Street Ford City, Pennsylvania, Armstrong County and Indiana County 16226 United States
Information
Type	Public
School board	9 locally elected board members
Superintendent	Dr Stan J Chapp (2010-2015 salary $160,850 2010)
Administrator	Dr Lyn R Logelin, Asst Superintendent salary $120,000 (2012) Mr. John Zenone, Business Manager Ms. Jennifer Emmonds, Asst Bisuness Manager Braun-Zukowski, Shauna, $101,364 (2012) Coord. Curriculum Soloski, Cheryl, Coordinator of Curriculum (K-6), $101,364 Dr. Michael C. Glew, Super Special ED. Dr. Matthew L. Pawk, Coord. Special ED. Mr. William L. Henley, Dr of Facilities & Property Svs Ms. LuAnn M. Fee, Dr. Food Service Mr. Jon Fair, Dr. Transportation Safe Schools Mr. Anthony J. Grenda, Dr. Technology Mr. Chris Clawson , Tech Coord.
Principal	Berry, Paula, WHPS, $96,364 (2012)
Principal	Rox Serrao. EES,$96,364 (2012)
Principal	Cominos, Michael, FCHS, $96,364
Principal	Brian,Timmons LES, $96,364
Principal	Kreidler, Sue, WHIS, $96,364
Staff	280 (2012);[1] 280 non teaching staff members
Faculty	418 teachers (2012); 419 (2010)[2]
Teaching staff	486
Grades	PreK–12
Age	4 years old to 21 years special education
Pupils	5,405 pupils (2013),[3] 5,615 pupils (2009-10), 6,031 pupils (2006-07)[4]
• Kindergarten	450 (2012), 461
• Grade 1	441 (2012), 409
• Grade 2	395 (2012), 390
• Grade 3	407 (2012), 417
• Grade 4	416 (2012), 457
• Grade 5	408 (2012), 463
• Grade 6	417 (2012), 423
• Grade 7	450 (2012), 484
• Grade 8	480 (2012), 479
• Grade 9	430 (2012), 472
• Grade 10	457 (2012), 491
• Grade 11	327 (2012), 332
• Grade 12	327 (2012), 300
• Other	Enrollment projected to decline by 250 by 2015
Medium of language	English
Publication	Network
Budget	$96,135,837 (2014-2015)[5] $85 million (2008-2009)
Graduates (2008)	343
Per pupil spending	$13,037 (2008)
Per pupil spending	$14,593.76 (2010)
Website	http://www.asd.k12.pa.us/

The Armstrong School District is a large, public school district which encompasses approximately 437 square miles (1,130 km²). The District is one of the 500 public school districts of Pennsylvania. In Armstrong County, Pennsylvania, Armstrong School District covers the Boroughs of Applewold, Atwood, Dayton, Elderton, Ford City, Ford Cliff, Kittanning, Manorville, Rural Valley, West Kittanning and Worthington and the Townships of Bethel Township, Boggs Township, Burrell Township, Cadogan Township, Cowanshannock Township, East Franklin Township, Kittanning Township, Manor Township, North Buffalo Township, Pine Township, Plumcreek Township, Rayburn Township, South Bend Township, Valley Township, Washington Township, Wayne Township and West Franklin Township. In Indiana County, Pennsylvania the district includes the Borough of Smicksburg and West Mahoning Township. According to 2000 federal census data, it served a resident population of 44,970. By 2010, the District's population declined to 43,301 people.^[6] In 2009, Armstrong School District residents' per capita income was $15,449, while the median family income was $36,907.^[7]

According to Armstrong School District officials, in school year 2009-10, the District provided basic educational services to 5,551 pupils. The District employed 463 teachers, 232 full-time and part-time support personnel, and 28 administrators. Armstrong School District received more than $43.3 million in state funding in school year 2009-10. In school year 2005–06, the Armstrong School District provided basic educational services to 6,145 pupils. In 2005 it employed: 490 teachers, 173 full-time and part-time support personnel, and 33 administrators. Armstrong School District received more than $38 million in state funding in school year 2005–06.

In 2013, Armstrong School District operates ten (10) public schools. A new junior senior high school is under construction. Upon completion in 2015, two older high school buildings will be closed. The district was established 1966 when Pennsylvania consolidated several smaller school districts.

High school students may also choose to attend Lenape Tech for vocational training. The ARIN Intermediate Unit IU28 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.

The mission statement of the Armstrong School District is 'The Armstrong School District, in partnership with our families and communities, will graduate educationally prepared, productive, morally responsible individuals'.

Governance

The Armstrong 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.^[8] The federal government 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, which mandates the district focus resources on student success in acquiring essential reading and math skills. 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.

The Commonwealth Foundation for Public Policy Alternatives Sunshine Review gave the Armstrong School Board and school district administration a "C-" 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.^[9]

The Armstrong School District's Board of Education consists of the following people in 2010:^[10] Joseph D. Close - President, Christopher E. Choncek - Vice President, Stan J. Berdell, Dr. Paul J. Lobby, Amy K. Lhote, Larry P. Robb, Jr., James T. Rearic, D. Royce Smeltzer, Sara J. Yassem, Lee V. Price – Solicitor, Linda J. Shirley – Board Secretary, Eric A. Brandenburg – Board Treasurer in January 18, 2010.

Schools

West Hills Primary School 181 Heritage Park Dr., Kittaning, PA 16201
Principal:Ms. Paula Berry

West Hills Intermediate School 175 Heritaage Park Dr., Kittanning, PA 16201
Principal: Ms.Sue Kreidler

Lenape Elementary School

Dayton Elementary School

Elderton Elementary School

Shannock Valley Elementary School

Armstrong Junior Senior High School - 7th - 12th grades

Kittanning Junior High School - 7th – 8th grades (Now Closed)

Ford City Jr./Sr. High School 7th – 12th grades (Now Closed)

Kittanning Sr. High School 9th – 12th grades (Now Closed)

West Shamokin Jr./Sr. High School 7th – 12th grades

Armstrong School District Cyber Academy - online school grades 7 - 12 .

Academic achievements

In 2007, Johns Hopkins University reported that several of the district's high schools were listed among 47 Pennsylvania schools and 1700 nationwide high schools with high drop out rates.^[11]

In 2014, Armstrong School District was ranked 322nd out of the 496 ranked Pennsylvania public school districts by the Pittsburgh Business Times.^[12] 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.^[13] 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.

Overachiever statewide ranking

In 2013, the Pittsburgh Business Times also reported an Overachievers Ranking for 498 Pennsylvania school districts. Armstrong School District ranked 273rd. In 2012, the District was 272nd.^[20] The editor describes the ranking as: "a ranking answers the question - which school districts do better than expectations based upon economics? This rank takes the Honor Roll rank and adds the percentage of students in the district eligible for free and reduced-price lunch into the formula. A district finishing high on this rank is smashing expectations, and any district above the median point is exceeding expectations."^[21]

Western Pennsylvania schools ranking

Armstrong School District was ranked 70th out of 105 western Pennsylvania school districts in 2013 by the Pittsburgh Business Times. The ranking was based on the last three years of student academic performance on the PSSAs for math, reading, writing and science.^[22] (includes 105 districts in: Allegheny County, Armstrong County, Beaver County, Butler County, Fayette County, Washington County and Westmoreland County but excludes Duquesne City School District & Midland Borough School District due to their not operating a high school).

• 2012 - 72nd
• 2010 - 72nd
• 2009 - 72nd
• 2008 - 67th

District-wide graduation rate

In 2013, Armstrong School District achieved an 87% graduation rate.^[23] In 2012, Armstrong School District achieved an 87.23% graduation rate.^[24] In 2011, Armstrong School District achieved an 89% graduation rate.^[25] In 2010, the Pennsylvania Department of Education issued a new, 4-year cohort graduation rate. Armstrong School District's rate was 83% for 2010.^[26]

According to traditional graduation rate calculations:

• 2010 – 91%^[27]
• 2009 – 92%^[28]
• 2008 – 91%^[29]
• 2007 – 91%^[30]

In 2006, 51% of the graduates from Armstrong School District did not achieved proficient or better on the PSSA's for Mathematics and Reading.^[31]

District AYP History

In 2012, Armstrong School District achieved Adequate Yearly Progress rating even though 6 of its schools were in Warning AYP status due to lagging student achievement.^[32] the low achievement schools are: Elderton Junior Senior High School, Ford City Junior High School, Kittanning Area Junior High School, Kittanning Senior High School, Shannock Valley Elementary School, and West Hills Intermediate School.

• achieved AYP status 2005-2011
• 2003 and 2004 - Warning AYP status due to lagging student achievement in reading and mathematics.

District Wide PSSA results

11th grade reading:

• 2012 - 59% on grade level, (20% below basic). State - 67% of 11th graders are on grade level.^[33]
• 2011 - 65%, (17% below basic). State - 69.1%^[34]
• 2010 - 65% (19% below basic). State - 66%
• 2009 - 74%, State – 65%
• 2008 - 64%, State – 65%

11th grade math:

• 2012 - 53% on grade level (25% below basic). In Pennsylvania, 59% of 11th graders are on grade level.^[35]
• 2011 - 51%, (23% below basic). State - 60.3%
• 2010 - 53%, (25% below basic). State - 59%
• 2009 - 61%, State – 56%^[36]
• 2008 - 49%, State – 56%

11th grade science:

• 2012 - 38% on grade level (13% below basic). State - 42% of 11th graders were on grade level.^[37]
• 2011 - 36% on grade level (16% below basic). State - 40% of 11th graders were on grade level. .^[38]
• 2010 - 35%, (14% below basic). State – 39%
• 2009 - 48%, State – 39%%^[39]

Graduation requirements

The Armstrong School Board has determined that a pupil must earn 25 credits to graduate, including: a required class every year in math 4 credits, English 4 credits, social studies 4 credits, science 3 credits, Physical Education, Computer Science 0.5 credit, Community Service Learning .25 credit, Public speaking 0.5 credit, Living on Your Own 0.5 credit, Driver Education Theory 0.3 credit and other electives.^[40] Beginning in grade 7, students have the opportunity to make up a maximum of two courses failed during the school year in summer school.

Driver Education Theory is scheduled in grade ten as a required course. Behind-the- wheel driving lessons (six total hours) may be scheduled during after-school hours and after the Driver Education Theory course is completed. A $50 fee is charged for behind- the-wheel lessons.

By law, all Pennsylvania secondary school students must 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.^[41] Effective with the graduating class of 2017, the Pennsylvania State Board of Education eliminated the state mandate that students complete a culminating project in order to graduate.^[42]

By Pennsylvania School Board regulations, beginning with the class of 2017, public school students must demonstrate successful completion of secondary level course work in Algebra I, Biology, and English Literature by passing the Keystone Exams.^[43] The exam is given at the end of the course. Keystone Exams replace the PSSAs for 11th grade.^[44]

Students have several opportunities to pass the exam. Those who do not pass after several attempts can perform a project in order to graduate.^[45][46] For the class of 2019, a Composition exam will be added. For the class of 2020, passing a civics and government exam will be added to the graduation requirements.^[47] 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.^[48] Individual student, school or district reports were not made public, although they were reported to district officials by the Pennsylvania Department of Education. Students identified as having special needs and qualifying for an Individual Educational Program (IEP) may graduate by meeting the requirements of their Individual Education Plan (IEP).

Ford City Junior Senior High School

Ford City Junior Senior High School is located at 4th Ave and 11th St, Ford City. In 2013, the enrollment is 746 pupils in grades 7th through 12th, with 39% of pupils coming from homes with low income. Additionally, 13% of its pupils receive special education services and 4.5% were identified as 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.^[49]

According to the National Center for Education Statistics, in 2011, Ford City Junior Senior High School reported an enrollment of 676 pupils in grades 7th through 12th, with 238 pupils eligible for a federal free or reduced price lunch due to the family meeting the federal poverty level. The school employed 51 teachers yielding a student-teacher ratio of 13:1.^[50] 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.^[51]

2013 School Performance Profile

Ford City Junior Senior High School achieved 68.4 out of 100. Reflects on grade level reading, mathematics and science achievement. In reading/literature - 73.78% were on grade level. In Algebra 1, 76% showed on grade level skills. In Biology, 57% showed on grade level science understanding. Eighth grade writing was 67% of students demonstrated on grade level writing skills.^[52] According to the Pennsylvania Department of Education, 2,181 public schools (less than 73 percent of Pennsylvania public schools), achieved an academic score of 70 or higher. Pennsylvania 11th grade students no longer take the PSSAs. Instead, they now take the Keystone Exams at the end of the associated course.

Adequate Yearly Progress History

In 2012, Ford City Junior Senior High School declined to Warning AYP status due to the significantly lagging student achievement in reading and mathematics.^[53] In 2011, Ford City Junior Senior High School achieved AYP status.^[54] In 2010, Ford City Junior Senior High School was in Warning status for academic achievement due to low student achievement in reading and mathematics. In 2009, the school achieved AYP.^[55] In 2008 and 2003, Ford City Junior Senior High School was also in Warning AYP status.^[56]

Graduation rate:

PSSA results

PSSAs are NCLB related examinations which were administered from 2003 through 2012. Eleventh grade students were tested in reading, writing, mathematics and science. In 2013, the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania changed its high school assessments to the Keystone Exams in Algebra 1, Reading/literature and Biology1. The exams are given at the end of the course, rather than all in the spring of the student's 11th grade year.

11th grade Reading:

• 2012 - 70% on grade level, (17% below basic). State - 67% of 11th graders are on grade level.^[33]
• 2011 - 59%, (26% below basic). State - 69.1%.^[34]
• 2010 – 70%, (16% below basic). State – 66%^[62]
• 2009 – 74%, State – 65%^[63]
• 2008 – 67%, State – 65%
• 2007 – 74%, State – 65%

11th grade Math:

• 2012 - 64% on grade level (19% below basic). In Pennsylvania, 59% of 11th graders are on grade level.^[35]
• 2011 - 48%, (25% below basic). State - 60.3%^[64]
• 2010 – 64%, (18% below basic). State - 59%
• 2009 – 63%, State – 56%
• 2008 – 52%, State – 56%^[65]
• 2007 – 61%, State – 53%^[66]

11th grade Science:

• 2012 - 46% on grade level (5% below basic). State - 42% of 11th graders were on grade level.^[67]
• 2011 - 39%, (11% below basic). State - 40%^[38]
• 2010 – 43%, (12% below basic). State – 39%
• 2009 – 44%, State – 40%
• 2008 – 25%, State – 39%

Eighth grade

In 2013, Ford City's 8th grade was ranked 84th out of 141 western Pennsylvania middle schools, by the Pittsburgh Business Times, based on the last three year of student achievement on the PSSAs in reading mathematics, writing and science.^[68] In 2012, the eighth grade ranked 87th in the western Pennsylvania schools. In 2009, the 8th grade was ranked 93rd out of 141 western Pennsylvania middle schools.^[69]

8th grade Science:

• 2012 - 61% on grade level (13% below basic). State - 59%
• 2011 - 68% (16% below basic). State – 58.3%
• 2010 - 54% (25% below basic). State - 57%
• 2009 - 57% (19% below basic). State - 55%^[72]

Seventh grade

In 2013, Ford City's seventh (7th) grade ranked 61st out of 150 western Pennsylvania middle school seventh grades.^[73] In 2012, Ford City's seventh grade ranked 70th in the western Pennsylvania region.

Kittanning Senior High School

Kittanning Senior High School is located at 1200 Orr Avenue, Kittanning. In 2013, the School reported an enrollment of 612 pupils in grades 9th through12th, with 38% of pupils receiving a federal free lunch due to family poverty. Additionally, 11% of pupils received special education services and 4% were identified as gifted.According to a report by the Pennsylvania Department of Education, 100% of its teachers were rated "Highly Qualified" under No Child Left Behind.^[74]

According to the National Center for Education Statistics, in 2011, the school reported an enrollment of 632 pupils in grades 9th through 12th, with 209 pupils eligible for a federal free or reduced price lunch due to the family meeting the federal poverty level. The school is not a federally designated Title I school. The school employed 51 teachers yielding a student-teacher ratio of 12:1.^[75] According to a report by the Pennsylvania Department of Education, 100% of its teachers were rated "Highly Qualified" under No Child Left Behind.^[76]

2013 School Performance Profile

Kittanning Senior High School achieved 67.2 out of 100. Reflects on grade level reading, mathematics and science achievement. In reading/literature - 71% of tested pupils were on grade level. In Algebra 1, 61.7% showed on grade level skills. In Biology, just 43.8% showed on grade level science understanding.^[77]

Graduation Rate:

Western Pennsylvania ranking

In 2013, the Pittsburgh Business Times ranked Kittanning Senior High School's eleventh (11th) grade 67th out of 105 western Pennsylvania high schools, based on the last three years of student academic achievement on the Pennsylvania System of School Assessments (PSSA) in: reading, math, writing and science.^[82] In 2012, the eleventh grade ranked 73rd in western Pennsylvania.

AYP Status history

In 2012, Kittanning Senior High School remained in Warning AYP (Adequate Yearly Progress) status due to missing all metric in reading and mathematics.^[83] In 2011, Kittanning Senior High School declined to Warning AYP status. In 2010, the School achieved AYP status.^[84]

PSSA history

11th grade Reading

• 2012 - 64% on grade level, (15% below basic). State - 67% of 11th graders are on grade level.
• 2011 - 70%, (16% below basic). State - 69.1% of 11th graders are on grade level.^[85]
• 2010 – 73% (16% below basic). State - 66%
• 2009 – 69% (17% below basic), State – 65%^[86]

11th grade Math:

• 2012 - 63% on grade level (19% below basic). In Pennsylvania, 59% of 11th graders are on grade level.^[35]
• 2011 - 58%, (16% below basic). State - 60.3%
• 2010 - 64%, (22% below basic). State - 59%^[87]
• 2009 - 60%, State – 56%^[88]
• 2008 - 46%, State – 56%^[89]
• 2007 - 49%, State – 53%^[90]

11th grade Science:

• 2012 - 42% on grade level (10% below basic). State - 42% of 11th graders were on grade level.^[91]
• 2011 - 44%, (13% below basic). State - 40%
• 2010 – 42%, (12% below basic). State – 39%
• 2009 – 47%, State – 40%
• 2008 – 37%, State – 39%

AP Courses

In 2013, Kittanning Senior High School offered 5 Advanced Placement (AP) courses at a higher cost than regular courses. The student pays the fee for the exam which was $89 per test per pupil in 2012. 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 Kittanning Senior High School 24.48% of students who took an AP course earned a 3 or better on the exam.^[92]

Kittanning Junior High School

Kittanning Junior High School is located at 210 N McKean Street, Kittanning. In 2013, enrollment was 379 pupils, in grades 7th and 8th, with 41% of pupils eligible for a free lunch due to family poverty. Additionally, 18.7% of pupils received special education services, while less than 1% of pupils were identified as gifted.^[93] According to a 2013 report by the Pennsylvania Department of Education, 100% of its teachers were rated "Highly Qualified" under No Child Left Behind.^[94]

According to the National Center for Education Statistics, in 2011, Kittanning Junior High School reported an enrollment of 379 pupils in grades 7th and 8th, with 41% of its pupils receiving a federal free or reduced price lunch due to family poverty. In 2011, the school employed 27 teachers yielding a student-teacher ratio of 12:1.^[95] According to a report by the Pennsylvania Department of Education, 100% of its teachers were rated "Highly Qualified" under No Child Left Behind.^[96]

2013 School Performance Profile

Kittanning Junior High School achieved 71.5 out of 100. Reflects on grade level reading, writing, mathematics and science achievement. In reading, 78.7% of the students were on grade level. In Mathematics, 83% of the students showed on grade level skills. In Science, 59.7% of the 8th graders demonstrated on grade level understanding. In writing, 74% of the 8th grade students were on grade level.^[97]

AYP History

In 2012, Kittanning Junior High School declined to Warning AYP status.^[98] In 2010 and 2011, Kittanning Junior High School achieved AYP status.^[99]

Western Pennsylvania 8th grade ranking

In 2013, Kittanning Junior High's eighth grade ranked 82nd out of 149 western Pennsylvania middle schools based on the last three years of student academic achievement in Pennsylvania System of School Assessments (PSSA) in: reading, math, writing and three years of science.^[100] In 2012, Kitanning's 8th grade was ranked 77th among western Pennsylvania schools. In 2009, the 8th grade was ranked 74th out of 141 western Pennsylvania middle schools based on three years of student academic achievement in PSSAs in: reading, mathematics, writing and one year of science.^[69]

PSSA History

8th grade Science:

• 2012 - 53% on grade level (23% below basic). State - 59%
• 2011 - 58% (17% below basic). State – 58.3%
• 2010 – 49% (27% below basic). State – 57%
• 2009 – 52% (21% below basic), State – 55%^[106]

Seventh grade

n 2013, the Kittanning Junior High School's seventh grade ranked 60th out of 150 western Pennsylvania middle school seventh grades.^[73] In 2012, the seventh grade ranked 63rd in the western Pennsylvania region.

West Shamokin Junior Senior High School

West Shamokin Junior Senior High School is located at 178 Wolf Drive, Rural Valley. In 2013, enrollment was 722 pupils, in grades 7th through 12th, with 39% of pupils eligible for a free lunch due to family poverty. Additionally, 16.8% of pupils received special education services, while 3.6% of pupils were identified as gifted.^[107] According to a 2013 report by the Pennsylvania Department of Education, 100% of its teachers were rated "Highly Qualified" under No Child Left Behind.^[108]

According to the National Center for Education Statistics, in 2011, West Shamokin Junior Senior High School reported an enrollment of 545 pupils, in grades 7th through 12th, with 240 pupils receiving a federal free or reduced price lunch due to family poverty. The School employed 48 teachers yielding a student-teacher ratio of 11:1.^[109] According to a report by the Pennsylvania Department of Education, 100% of its teachers were rated "Highly Qualified" under No Child Left Behind.^[110]

Graduation Rate:

• 2011 - 89%^[111]
• 2010 – 95%^[112]
• 2009 – 100%^[113]
• 2008 – 92%

AYP History

In 2011 and 2012, West Shamokin Junior Senior High School achieved AYP status. In 2010, the School was in Warning AYP status due to lagging student academic achievement.^[114]

PSSA results

11th grade Reading:

• 2012 - 71% on grade level, (11% below basic). State - 67%
• 2011 - 78% (8% below basic). State - 69.1%^[34]
• 2010 – 73% (14% below basic). State - 66%^[62]
• 2009 – 83% (8% below basic), State – 65%^[63]

11th grade Math:

• 2012 - 60%, on grade level (15% below basic). State - 59%
• 2011 - 63%, on grade level (10% below basic). State - 60.3%^[115]
• 2010 – 54%, State - 59%^[116]
• 2009 – 71%, State – 56%
• 2008 – 48%, State – 56%
• 2007 – 53%, State – 53%

11th grade Science:

• 2011 - 42% on grade level (9% below basic). State - 42%
• 2011 - 37% (18% below basic). State - 40%^[38]
• 2010 – 38%, State – 39%
• 2009 – 64%, State – 40%
• 2008 – 27%, State – 39%

Eighth grade

In 2009, the 8th grade was ranked 75th out of 141 western Pennsylvania middle schools based on three years of student academic achievement in PSSAs in: reading, math writing and one year of science.^[69]

8th Grade Science:

• 2012 - 66% on grade level (14% below basic). State – 59% of 8th graders were on grade level.
• 2011 - 46% (30% below basic). State – 58.3%
• 2010 - 47% (34% below basic). State - 57%^[117]

Seventh grade

Cyber education

As of the 2008–2009 school year, the Armstrong School District is offering its Cyber Academy. It is available for students in grades 7 through 12. The school district's cyber school is an alternative to other statewide public cyber charter schools, such as the Pennsylvania Cyber Charter School.^[118] See: Education in Pennsylvania.

Dual enrollment

The Armstrong School District high schools offer a dual enrollment program. This state program permits high school students to take courses, at local higher education institutions, to earn college credits. Students remain enrolled at their high school. The courses count towards high school graduation requirements and towards earning a college degree. The students continue to have full access to activities and programs at their high school. The college credits are offered at a deeply discounted rate. The state offers a small grant to assist students in costs for tuition, fees and books.^[119] Under the Pennsylvania Transfer and Articulation Agreement, many Pennsylvania colleges and universities accept these credits for students who transfer to their institutions.^[120] For the 2009–10 funding year, the school district received a state grant of $12,125 for the program.

Twenty dual enrollment course options are available in the District throughout the school year in areas such as Music, Art, Psychology, Anthropology, Algebra, Calculus, Microeconomics, Spanish, French, History, and Political Science. ASD partners with Indiana University of Pennsylvania (IUP), Butler County Community College (BC3) and California University of Pennsylvania (Cal U) to offer these courses. The course costs are deeply discounted up to 75% off.

College remediation

According to a Pennsylvania Department of Education study released in January 2009, 20% of Armstrong School District graduates required remediation in mathematics and or reading before they were prepared to take college level courses in the Pennsylvania State System of Higher Education or community colleges.^[121] 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.^[122] 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.

Dayton Elementary School

Dayton Elementary School is located at 175 E. Grant Avenue, Dayton. In 2013, the school's enrollment was 262 pupils with 36% of pupils receiving a federal free or reduced price meals due to family poverty. 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 both half day kindergarten and full day kindergarten through 6th grade.^[123] The Dayton Elementary School is a federally designated Title I school. In 2011, the school employed 22 teachers yielding a student-teacher ratio of 12:1.^[124] In 2011, the enrollment was 273 pupils.

2013 School Performance Profile

Dayton Elementary School achieved a score of 78.3 out of 100. The score reflects on grade level: reading, science, writing and mathematics achievement. In 2012-13, only 71% of the students were reading on grade level in grades 3rd through 5th. In 3rd grade, 84.6% of the pupils were reading on grade level. In math, 85% were on grade level (3rd-5th grades). In 4th grade science, just 80% of the pupils demonstrated on grade level understanding. In writing only 75% of 5th grade pupils demonstrated on grade level skills.^[125]

In 2011 and 2012, Dayton Elementary School achieved AYP status.^[126][127]

Elderton Elementary School

Elderton Elementary School is located at 239 S. Lytle Street, Elderton. In 2013, the school's enrollment was 286 pupils with 37% of pupils receiving a federal free or reduced price meals due to family poverty. According to a report by the Pennsylvania Department of Education, 100% of the teachers were rated highly qualified under No Child Left Behind in 2013. The school provides both: half day kindergarten and full day kindergarten as well as first through sixth grade.^[128] The school is a federally designated Title I school. In 2011, Elderton Elementary School employed 22 teachers yielding a student-teacher ratio of 12:1. The enrollment was 272 pupils in 2011.^[129]

2013 School Performance Profile

Elderton Elementary School achieved a score of 76.9 out of 100. The score reflects on grade level: reading, science, writing and mathematics achievement. In 2012-13, only 67% of the students were reading on grade level in grades 3rd through 5th. In 3rd grade, 83% of the pupils were reading on grade level. In math, 75% were on grade level (3rd-5th grades). In 4th grade science, 82% of the pupils demonstrated on grade level understanding. In writing, only 77% of 5th grade pupils demonstrated on grade level writing skills.^[130]

In 2011 and 2012, Elderton Elementary School achieved AYP status.^[131][132]

Lenape Elementary School

Lenape Elementary School is located at. In 2013, the school's enrollment was 825 pupils with 52% of pupils receiving a federal free or reduced price meals due to family poverty. 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 both full day and half day kindergarten through sixth grade.^[133] Lenape Elementary School is a federally designated Title I school. In 2011, the school employed 48 teachers yielding a student-teacher ratio of 15:1. The enrollment was 720 pupils in 2011.^[134]

2013 School Performance Profile

Lenape Elementary School achieved a score of 81.3 out of 100. The score reflects on grade level: reading, science, writing and mathematics achievement. In 2012-13, only 66% of the students were reading on grade level in grades 3rd through 5th. In 3rd grade, 58% of the pupils were reading on grade level. In math, 78.6% were on grade level (3rd-5th grades). In 4th grade science, 88% of the pupils demonstrated on grade level understanding. In writing, only 60% of 5th grade pupils demonstrated on grade level writing skills.^[135]

In 2012, Lenape Elementary School achieved AYP status. In 2011, Lenape Elementary School was in Warning AYP status due to lagging reading achievement.^[136][137]

Shannock Valley Elementary School

Shannock Valley Elementary School is located at. In 2013, the school's enrollment was 348 pupils with 45% of pupils receiving a federal free or reduced price meals due to family poverty. 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 both half day and full day kindergarten through sixth grade.^[138] The school is a federally designated Title I school. In 2011, Shannock Valley Elementary School employed 24 teachers yielding a student-teacher ratio of 15:1, with an enrollment of 365 pupils.^[139]

2013 School Performance Profile

Shannock Valley Elementary School achieved a score of 81.9 out of 100. The score reflects on grade level: reading, science, writing and mathematics achievement. In 2012-13, only 75% of the students were reading on grade level in grades 3rd through 5th. In 3rd grade, 87% of the pupils were reading on grade level. In math, 83% were on grade level (3rd-5th grades). In 4th grade science, 87.7% of the pupils demonstrated on grade level understanding. In writing, only 64% of 5th grade pupils demonstrated on grade level writing skills.^[140]

In 2012, Shannock Valley Elementary School declined to Warning AYP status due to lagging reading achievement.^[141] In 2011, Shannock Valley Elementary School achieved AYP status.

West Hills Primary School

West Hills Primary School is located at 175 Heritage Park Drive, Kittanning. In 2013, the school's enrollment was 698 pupils with 45.7% of pupils receiving a federal free or reduced price meals due to family poverty. 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 half day and full day kindergarten through 3rd grade.^[142] The school is a federally designated Title I school. The school employed 40 teachers yielding a student-teacher ratio of 16:1.^[143]

2013 School Performance Profile

West Hills Primary School achieved a score of 81 out of 100. The score reflects on grade level: reading, science, writing and mathematics achievement. In 2012-13, only 75% of the 3rd grade pupils were reading on grade level. In math, 82% were on grade level (3rd grades).^[144]

In 2011 and 2012, West Hills Primary School achieved AYP status.^[145][146]

West Hills Intermediate School

West Hills Intermediate School is located at 175 Heritage Park Drive, Kittanning. In 2013, the school's enrollment was 515 pupils with 45.8% of pupils receiving a federal free or reduced price meals due to family poverty. 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 grades 4th through 6th.^[147] The school is a federally designated Title I school. In 2011, West Hills Intermediate School employed 33 teachers yielding a student-teacher ratio of 15:1.^[148]

2013 School Performance Profile

West Hills Intermediate School achieved a score of 65.2 out of 100. The score reflects on grade level: reading, science, writing and mathematics achievement. In 2012-13, only 58% of the students were reading on grade level in grades 4th through 6th. In math, 72.5% were on grade level (4th-6th grades). In 4th grade science, just 77.7% of the pupils demonstrated on grade level understanding. In writing, only 44% of 5th grade pupils demonstrated on grade level skills.^[149]

In 2012, West Hills Intermediate School declined to Warning AYP status.^[150] In 2011, West Hills Intermediate School achieved AYP status.

Special education

In December 2012, Armstrong School District administration reported that 1,072 pupils or 18.6% of the district's pupils received Special Education services, with 40.9% of the identified students having a specific learning disability.^[151] In December 2009, the district administration reported that 1009 pupils or 16.9% of the district's pupils received Special Education services.^[152][153]

In compliance with state and federal laws, Armstrong School 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.^[154] To identify students who may be eligible for special education, various screening activities are conducted on an ongoing basis. 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 Special Education administration. 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 verbally request a multidisciplinary evaluation from a professional employee of the District or contact the Special Education Office.^[155]

For the 2010–11 school year, 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.^[156]

Armstrong School District received a $4,081,602 supplement for special education services in 2010.^[157] 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.^[158] The state requires each district to have a three-year special education plan to meet the unique needs of its special education students.^[159] 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.^[160] In 2012, the Obama Administration's US Department of Education issued a directive that schools include students with disabilities in extracurricular activities, including sports.^[161]

For the 2011–2012 school year, all Pennsylvania public school districts received the same level of funding for special education that they received in 2010. 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.^[162] For the 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.^[163][164] Additionally, the state provides supplemental funding for extraordinarily impacted students. The District must apply for this added funding. in2014-2015, Armstrong School District received $1,648,697 for special education services.

Gifted education

The District Administration reported that 180 or 2.97% of its students were gifted in 2009.^[165] By law, the district must provide mentally gifted programs at all grade levels. 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.^[166]

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.^[167]

In 2013, the average teacher salary in Armstrong School District was $58,560 a year, while the cost of the benefits teachers received was $25,636 per employee (among the highest in the Commonwealth public schools), for a total annual average teacher compensation of $84,196.^[168]

In 2012, the average teacher salary in Armstrong School District was $66,413.76 a year, while the cost of the benefits teachers received was $24,081 per employee (among the highest in the Commonwealth public schools), for a total annual average teacher compensation of $90,495.^[169] The District employed 657 teachers with an average salary of $70,484 and a top salary of $172,521.^[170] In 2012, the district's average teacher salary was $67,546 and a top salary of $160,850.^[171] In 2009, the district's average teacher salary was $64,332 and a top salary of $144,500.^[172]

In 2007, the Armstrong School District employed 440 teachers. The average teacher salary in the district was $57,646 for 180 days worked. The district's teachers were the highest paid in Armstrong County.^[173] The average teacher salary in Pennsylvania was $54,977. 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.^[174] Additionally, the teachers receive a defined benefit pension, health insurance, professional development reimbursement, paid personal days, 10 paid sick days, and many other benefits.^[175]

Per pupil spending Armstrong School District's administrative costs per pupil was $846.91 in 2008. The lowest administrative cost per pupil in Pennsylvania was $398 per pupil.^[176] It ranked 141st among Pennsylvania's 500 public school districts for administration spending. The Pennsylvania School Boards Association collects and maintains statistics on salaries of public school district employees in Pennsylvania. According to the association's report, the average salary for a superintendent, for the 2007-08 school year, was $122,165. Superintendents and administrators receive a benefit package commensurate with that offered to the district's teachers' union.^[177] According to PSBA, the median Superintendent salary rose to over $130,000 in 2011.^[178] William H. Kerr, Ed.D. was the superintendent unit 2010. He left to be the superintendent of Norwin School District.

In 2008, Armstrong School District administration reported that per pupil spending was $13,037 which ranked 174th among Pennsylvania's 501 school districts. In 2010, the District's per pupil spending had increased to $14,593.76.^[179] In 2011, Pennsylvania's per pupil spending was $13,467, ranking 6th in the United States.^[180] In 2007, the Pennsylvania per pupil total expenditures was reported as $12,759.^[181] In 2011, Pennsylvania's per pupil spending was $13,467, ranking 6th in the United States.^[180] In 2007, the Pennsylvania per pupil total expenditures was reported as $12,759.^[181]

The U.S. Census Bureau reported that Pennsylvania spent $8,191 per pupil in school year 2000-01.^[182] In 2007, the Pennsylvania per pupil total expenditures was reported as $12,759.^[181] Among the fifty states, Pennsylvania's total per pupil revenue (including all sources) ranked 11th at $15,023 per student, in 2008-09.^[183] Pennsylvania's total revenue per pupil rose to $16,186 ranking 9th in the nation in 2011.^[184]

Reserves In 2011, Armstrong School District reported having over $6.18 million in reserves. Some of that was used to balance the 2011–12 school year budget.^[185] The District's business manager estimated having an $5.1 million fund balance in June 2012. Armstrong School District administration reported an increase to $4,962,995 in the unreserved-undesignated fund balance. The District also reported $6,592,217 in its reserve fund in 2012. 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.^[186] In 2005, the total reserve funds held by Pennsylvania public school districts was $1.9 billion.^[187] By 2013, reserves held by Pennsylvania public school districts, as a whole, had increased to over $3.8 billion.^[188] In 2014, Armstrong School District reported its reserves at $2,170,247.

Audit In January 2010, the Pennsylvania Auditor General conducted a performance audit of the district and school board. Multiple serious findings were reported to the school board.^[189]

KOZs Five pieces of Armstrong School District-owned property were converted to tax-free Keystone Opportunity Expansion Zones. The Ford City High School building in Ford City, Kittanning Township Elementary School in Kittanning Township, Kittanning Middle School and Kittanning High School in Kittanning, and 144.7 acres in East Franklin's West Hills Industrial Park campus was designated Keystone Opportunity Expansion Zones, after receiving approval from each of the impacted municipalities, the Armstrong School District board also needed the approval of the Armstrong County Commissioners. Several of the public school buildings are to close after the 2014-15 school year in preparation for the new Armstrong Junior-Senior High School in Manor Township. In Pennsylvania Keystone Opportunity Zones, multiple taxes, including state corporate net income tax, state capital stock and foreign franchise tax, state personal income tax, state sales and use tax, local earned income and net profits tax, local business gross receipts, business occupancy, business privilege and mercantile tax, and local property, sales and use taxes, are waived.^[190][191]

Property tax abatement The Board of School Directors of Armstrong School District approved a Tax Abatement Program on January 28, 2002 (renewed in 2005, 2007, and 2009) that allows for the exemption of certain real estate property taxes. The abatement provides 100% relief of the Armstrong School District real property tax on the assessed value of improvements to unimproved residential property located within the Armstrong School District. It lasts for two years.

Tuition Students who live in the 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 Armstrong 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 Armstrong School District's schools. The 2012 tuition rates are Elementary School - $9,207.03, High School - $11,468.59.^[192] In 2013, Armstrong School District received $39,350 in tuition payments.^[193]

Armstrong School District is funded by a combination of: a local earned income tax 1%, a property tax, a real estate transfer tax 0.5%, per capita taxes, coupled with substantial funding from the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania and the federal government. Grants can provide an opportunity to supplement school funding without raising local taxes.^[194] 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.^[195] 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.^[196]

State basic education funding

According to a report from Representative Todd Stephens office, School District receives 55.5% of its annual revenue from the state.^[197]

For the 2014-15 school year, Armstrong School District will receive $6,008,715 in State Basic Education funding. The District will also receive $227,314 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.^[198] 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.^[199]

For the 2013-14 school year, the Armstrong School District received a 1.4% increase or $28,492,036 in Pennsylvania Basic Education Funding. This is $395,158 more than its 2012-13 state BEF to the District. Additionally, Armstrong School District received $473,482 in Accountability Block Grant funding to focus on academic achievement and level funding for special education services. Among the public school districts in Armstrong County, Freeport Area School District received the highest percentage increase in BEF at 2%. 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.^[200] The highest percent of state spending per student is in the Chester-Upland district, where roughly 78 percent comes from state coffers. In Philadelphia, it is nearly 49 percent.^[201] As a part of the education budget, the state provided the PSERS (Pennsylvania school employee pension fund) with $1,017,000,000 and Social Security payments for school employees of $495 million.^[202]

For the 2012-13 school year, the Armstrong School District received $28,096,878 .^[203] The Governor's Executive Budget for 2012-2013 included $9.34 billion for kindergarten through 12th grade public education, including $5.4 billion in basic education funding, which was an increase of $49 million over the 2011-12 budget. In addition, the Commonwealth provided $100 million for the Accountability Block Grant (ABG) program. Armstrong School District received $473,482 in Accountability Block Grant funding to focus on academic achievement. The state also provided a $544.4 million payment for School Employees' Social Security and $856 million for School Employees' Retirement fund called PSERS.^[204] This amount was 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 school year, Armstrong School District received $28,096,880 in state Basic Education Funding.^[205][206] Additionally, the District received $473,482 in Accountability Block Grant funding. 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. 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.^[207]

In 2010, the District reported that 2,403 pupils received a free or reduced-price lunch due to their family meeting the federal poverty level.

For the 2010–11 budget year, the Armstrong School District received a base 2% increase in state basic education funding for a total of $29,290,465. Freeport Area School District received the highest increase in Armstrong County at 5.43%. One hundred fifty school districts in Pennsylvania received the 2% base increase for budget year 2010–11. The highest increase in the state was awarded to Kennett Consolidated School District of Chester County which was given a 23.65% increase in state basic education funding.^[208] Fifteen (15) Pennsylvania public school districts received a BEF increase of greater than 10%. The state's hold harmless policy regarding state basic education funding continued where each 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.^[209]

In the 2009–2010 budget year, the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania provided the Armstrong School District a 2.20% increase in Basic Education Funding for a total of $28,716,028. This was the lowest percentage point increase, in Basic Education Funding, for the school districts in Armstrong County. Two county school districts received increases of over 5% in Basic Education Funding. Sixteen school districts in Pennsylvania received an increase of over 10% in 2009. The Muhlenberg School District of Berks County received an increase of 22.31% in 2009–10. The amount of increase each school district received was set by Governor Edward G. Rendell and the Secretary of Education Gerald Zahorchak, as a part of the state budget proposal.^[210]

The state Basic Education Funding to the district in 2008–09 was $28,096,880.^[211] According to the Pennsylvania Department of Education, 2,366 students received free or reduced-price lunches due to low family income in the 2007–08 school year.^[212] According to the U.S. Census Bureau, Pennsylvania spent $7,824 Per Pupil in the year 2000. This amount increased up to $12,085 by the year 2008.^[213][214]

Accountability Block Grant

The state provides additional education funding to schools in the form of Accountability Block Grants. The use of these funds is strictly focused on specific state approved uses designed to improve student academic achievement. Armstrong School District uses its $1,285,148 to fund reduce class size K-3rd, to pay teachers to attend training to improve their instruction and to fund full-day kindergarten. These annual funds are in addition to the state's basic education funding.^[215] Schools Districts apply each year for Accountability Block Grants.^[216] In 2009–10, the state provided $271.4 million in Accountability Block grants $199.5 million went to providing all-day kindergartens.^[217]

Classrooms for the Future grant

The Classroom for the Future state program provided 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 program was funded from 2006–2009. Armstrong School District did not apply in 2006–07. In 2007–08 the district received $413,503 in funding. For the 2008–09, school year the district received a final $181,651 for a total funding of $595,154. Of the 501 public school districts in Pennsylvania, 447 of them received Classrooms for the Future grant awards.^[218] 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

The Armstrong School District did not participate in: Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection's Environmental Education annual grants, PA Science Its Elementary grants (discontinued effective with 2009-10 budget by Governor Rendell), Education Assistance Grants, 2012 Striving Readers Comprehensive Literacy grant, 2012 and 2013 nor Pennsylvania Hybrid Learning Grants,^[219] nor the federal 21st Century Learning grants.

Federal Stimulus funding

The Armstrong School District received an extra $5,641,209 in ARRA – Federal Stimulus money to be used in specific programs like special education and meeting the academic needs of low-income students.^[220] The funding was limited to the 2009-10 and 2010-2011 school years.^[221] 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

Armstrong School District officials applied for the Race to the Top federal grant. When approved for the grant, the district will receive millions of additional federal dollars for improving student academic achievement.^[222] 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.^[223] In Pennsylvania, 120 public school districts and 56 charter schools agreed to participate.^[224] 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.^[225]

Enhancing Education Through Technology grant

In February, 2010, the District received a $259,200 federal grant from the Enhancing Education Through Technology competitive grant program. Armstrong School District used the money to buy laptop computers, interactive whiteboards, and other innovative technologies to enhance instruction and administrative functions. The Federal Enhancing Education Through Technology was targeted at schools with higher levels of low income pupils.^[226]

Common Cents state initiative

Armstrong School District School Board chose 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.^[227] After the review of the information, the district was not required to implement the recommended cost savings changes. The report found multiple opportunities for savings.

Real estate taxes

Property tax rates in 2013–2014 were set by the Armstrong School Board at: Armstrong County residents – 56.6448 mills and the residents in Indiana County was 160.8425 mills.^[185] School districts located in more than one county are required to apportion the tax levy based on the market value in each county as determined by the State Tax Equalization Board pursuant to section 672.1 of the School Code. As a result, the tax rate increases are not the same for each county in a multi-county school district.^[228] 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. 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.^[229]

The average yearly property tax paid by Armstrong County residents amounts to about 3.35% of their yearly income. Armstrong County ranked 434th out of the 3143 United States counties for property taxes as a percentage of median income.^[236] 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 and to $11,153,412,490 in 2011.^[237] 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%).^[238]

Act 1 Adjusted index

The Act 1 of 2006 Index regulates the rates at which each school district can raise property taxes in Pennsylvania. Districts are not allowed 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 2010–2011 school year is 2.9 percent, but the Act 1 Index can be adjusted higher, depending on a number of factors, such as property values 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, increase in health insurance 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 PA 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.^[239]

The School District Adjusted Index for the Armstrong School District 2006–2007 through 2011–2012.^[240]

For the 2013-14 budget year, Armstrong School Board applied for an exception to exceed their Act 1 Index limit due to the rapidly escalating cost of the teacher's pensions. 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.^[244]

For the 2012-13 budget year, Armstrong School Board did not apply for exceptions to exceed the Act 1 Index. 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.^[245]

For the 2011–12 school year, the Armstrong School Board did not apply for exceptions to exceed the Act 1 Index. Each year the Armstrong 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.^[246]

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.^[247]

in 2009–10 and in 2010–11 Armstrong School Board did not apply for exceptions to exceed the Act 1 index. This limited their ability to raise property taxes to the amount of increase set by the State in the Act 1 Index.^[248][249] 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.^[250]

Property tax relief

In 2013, 12,248 approved residential property owners in the Armstrong School District received a $293 Property Tax Relief reduction in their property taxes.^[251] In 2011, 12,365 approved residential property owners received a $290 Property Tax Relief reduction in their property taxes.^[252] In 2009, the Homestead/Farmstead Property Tax Relief from gambling for the Armstrong School District was $303 per approved permanent primary residence. In the district, 11,855 property owners applied for the tax relief. 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 Armstrong County, 77.33% of eligible property owners applied for property tax relief in 2009. In Indiana County, 65% of residents applied for property tax relief.^[253]

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. This can be taken in addition to Homestead/Farmstead Property Tax Relief.

Closed schools

In 2000, the Armstrong School Board closed several schools due to declining enrollment: Dayton Jr/Sr High School and Shannock Valley Jr/Sr High School.

• East Franklin Elementary School
• North Buffalo Elementary School
• Worthington High School (Closed 1980's)
• East Brady Jr/Sr High School (Closed, early 1990s, partially consolidated with Kittanning High School, other students sent to Karns City Jr/Sr High School in the Karns City School District)
• Elderton Jr/Sr High School Closed June 2012 see page for more information
• Kittanning Township Elementary School - students shifted to Lenape Elementary in Ford City (closed 2012)

Extracurriculars

The Armstrong School District offers a wide variety of clubs, activities and an extensive junior high and high school sports program. In 2013, Armstrong School District spent over $1.5 million for activities (not including facilities costs or transportation). In 2014, Armstrong School District spent over $1.8 million for activities (not including facilities costs or transportation).^[254] The total revenue received by the district from all activities was only $107,500 in 2013.^[255] The district is especially challenged because it operates multiple high schools there by duplicating sports teams and the associated costs like coaches salaries, officials salaries, transportation, facilities and their maintenance, administration, uniforms and so on. Armstrong School Board determines eligibility policies to participate in these programs.^[256][257] When the planned high school and junior high school consolidation occurs in 2014-15, some duplicate teams will be eliminated.

By Pennsylvania law, all K-12 students in the district, including those who attend a private nonpublic school, cyber charter school, 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.^[258]

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.^[259][260]

See also

• List of school districts in Pennsylvania

References

External links

• Armstrong School District
• Former Armstrong School District website
• ASD Foundation
• ARIN IU 28
• Lenape Tech School