Ingomar Elementary School

602 West Ingomar Road
Pittsburgh, PA 15237
412-366-9665
412-366-5679 Fax

Main Office Hours

Office hours: 7:30 AM–4:00 PM
School hours: 9:00 AM–3:30 PM

Kindergarten Hours:

9:00–11:45 AM
12:45–3:30 PM

Welcome to Ingomar Elementary School! We are happy you are part of the Ingomar Elementary School family. Please help make Ingomar Elementary School a place to learn and thrive by being a positive, friendly student who takes pride in your school.

This Student/Parent handbook has been prepared to act as a guide for ensuring a rewarding school year. Your knowledge of, and compliance with, the procedures, regulations and provisions outlined in this handbook are essential in providing and maintaining a safe and orderly environment necessary for the academic, social, and emotional progress of all the individuals at Ingomar Elementary School.

The Student/Parent Handbook should help explain many of the procedures you will need to know during the year.

If you or your parents have additional questions, please call the Ingomar Elementary School Front Office at 412-366-9665 or email Dr. Michalowski at tmichalowski@northallegheny.org 

Sincerely,

The Ingomar Elementary School Staff

Principal: Dr. Tracie V. Michalowski, tmichalowski@northallegheny.org

Secretary: Mrs. Kelly Yatcko, kyatcko@northallegheny.org

PAWS

We focus on a positive behavior reward system that teaches students about pride, accountability, wise choices, and self-control in all areas of the school while reinforcing how to be a good citizen in the community.

1. PRIDE

2. ACCOUNTABILITY

3. WISE CHOICES

4. SELF-CONTROL

Mission

The mission of the North Allegheny School District is to prepare all students for success in a changing world. Each school fosters a safe, respectful, and engaging environment where students grow academically, socially, and emotionally, with a focus on responsible citizenship, creativity, and lifelong learning.

Vision

The vision of the North Allegheny School District is to be a premier school district that inspires excellence in academics, athletics, arts, and activities for every student every day.

We will exceed the expectations of those we serve. We believe:

• All individuals can learn.
• Learning is a life-long process that occurs inside and outside the classroom.
• Effective teaching is both an art and science that results in increased levels of critical thinking, achievement, and growth.
• Embracing, valuing, and promoting diversity enriches our community and learning experiences.
• Integrity, trust, compassion, and open communication are hallmarks of an excellent educational community.
• Educational excellence requires effective leadership, high expectations, teamwork, and the responsible utilization of resources.
• Collaboration among students, parents, staff and community enriches our ownership of the education process.

It is very important that every student maintains an up-to-date address and telephone number record at the school office. If you have a change in address or telephone number during the school year, notify the front office secretary to ensure efficient communication between school and home and to update your child’s transportation services (if needed). Emails are often not updated and electronic notifications are not received if not maintained.

Due to health concerns for students throughout the building, animals are not permitted to be brought into the building without approval from the office. On the day of the visit, you are to register at the office and at that time will be given further specific instructions regarding access to certain areas of the building.

Students should arrive on time and follow building-specific drop-off procedures. Arrival times typically begin at 8:50–9:00 AM. There is no supervision of students prior to 8:50 AM. Dismissal occurs at 3:30 PM unless otherwise specified. For early dismissals or changes in pickup, parents should notify the school office in writing or through approved digital forms before 2:30 PM. Students must be signed out by authorized individuals listed on their emergency contacts.

Students who are dropped off or walk will enter the lobby upon arrival to school and await the cue to go to their classrooms. The building is open to children at 8:50 AM. Students are not permitted in the building prior to 8:50 AM. Adult supervision is not provided prior to this time. Buses usually begin to arrive at 8:50 AM. The school day begins at 9:00 AM. Students who arrive after 9:05 AM will be listed as tardy. Parents transporting students to school should adhere to the 8:50 AM arrival time and use the drop-off areas in the parking lot, with students entering through the front doors for K–2 and the lower lot drop-off zone for students in grades 3–5.

Students are not to arrive prior to 8:50 AM since supervision is not available.

Regular attendance is crucial for learning. Absences are classified as legal (illness, bereavement, religious holidays, pre-approved educational trips) or illegal (unapproved vacations, truancy).

Legal absences include

1. Student illness
2. Death of an immediate family member
3. Absences approved by the Administration, including approved Family Educational Trips
4. Religious holidays or instruction
5. Urgent reasons deemed acceptable by the administration.

Illegal absences include

1. Truancy
2. Absence due to parental/guardian neglect
3. Illegal employment
4. Family Educational Trips not approved by the administration

When students return to school after any absence, they must bring a written excuse signed by their parent or guardian, stating the reason and dates of the absence(s). An email is acceptable, but it must be addressed to both the homeroom teacher and the school secretary. The written excuse should be given to the homeroom teacher for record keeping purposes. It will then be sent to the front office. If no excuse is provided within 3 days, absences are considered illegal.

To request approval for a Family Educational Trip, parent(s)/guardian(s) must submit the Educational Tour Form for excusal at least five (5) school days prior to the absence and the absence must be for 10 or less school days. Students who will be participating in an extended absence due to a request for an educational tour or trip for more than 10 days will be withdrawn after the tenth consecutive day (on day 11) and the withdrawal date will be dated the first day of the consecutive absence. These days are considered legal absences when approved. No absences will be approved during standardized testing windows.

Parents of students who are absent (regardless of if the absences are excused or unexcused) will receive a letter from the principal after a total of ten (10) days absent. This communication from the building administration is sent to emphasize the importance of daily attendance at school and as a reminder of Pennsylvania’s Compulsory Attendance Law.

Additionally, as a requirement of Act 138, students who have three unexcused absences will be sent a letter to notify parents of the unexcused absences and to schedule a School Attendance Improvement Conference (SAIC). The SAIC is designed to create a plan to help improve your child’s attendance and to assist with removing any barriers. Parents will be requested to attend the conference but if they are unable to attend, the school will develop the plan as required by school code. If a student accumulates a total of 6 or more unexcused absences which is considered habitually truant, the district may either refer the child to a truancy elimination program and/or file a complaint with the local magistrate. Your child’s attendance in school is critical to their success.

Students with legal absences may have the opportunity to complete any missed assignments upon returning to school. Requests for absent students’ homework assignments may be made on a student’s second day of absence. Parents are asked to call the main office before 10:00 AM on the second day of absence to make the request. Students who miss a single day of school can get their missed assignments upon their return to school the following day. Students may also check their teacher’s Canvas page for assignments. Students will be granted additional time to complete their assignments upon their return to school, typically equal to the number of days they were absent.

For an extended illness, please contact your child’s teacher and make arrangements for absences of a week or longer.

Due to allergy concerns and wellness policies, edible birthday treats are not permitted. Families are encouraged to send in non-food items such as pencils, stickers, or erasers. Arrangements should be coordinated with the classroom teacher in advance. Invitations to outside parties should not be distributed at school unless all students in the class are invited.

Being proactive to create an anti-bullying school environment is the best way to prevent bullying and conflict. Staff educates students on inclusiveness and tolerance. Various lessons and modeling are completed throughout the school year to support students to make school the best environment for everyone in the school community. The Positive Behavior Interventions and Supports Program provides realistic expectations necessary to take a proactive rather than a reactive approach when responding to behavioral and social issues including bullying. Any bullying observed or reported is addressed to resolve conflict quickly. Please see the Positive Behavior Interventions and Supports section. Please review Policy 249 Anti-Bullying/Cyberbullying School Board Policy.

Proper behavior is an absolute necessity while riding on the school bus. The bus driver is in charge and will enforce discipline on the bus. Students involved in misconduct, showing disrespect for the driver or fellow students, and those who cause damage to the bus may lose their bus riding privileges. The North Allegheny School District has established the following rules to maintain bus safety. Rules can be found on the district Transportation web page.

NOTE: Students must ride their assigned bus. If a one-time change is necessary due to an emergency, please email kyatcko@northalleghney.org. The IES bus monitor will notify the bus driver and provide a note.

Students are expected to behave appropriately on school buses. Bus drivers have authority and will assign seats. Drivers will use the first two weeks of school to allow students to pick a seatmate, and a seating chart will be developed. Changes to the seating charts can be made by the driver or the principal. Rules include remaining seated, speaking quietly, and keeping hands and belongings to oneself. Misconduct may result in temporary or permanent loss of bus privileges.

Video cameras are mounted in all school buses. The purpose of the cameras on a school bus is to increase safety and discourage disruptive behaviors.

Students may purchase a lunch daily using either cash or funds that they have on the Point of Sale (P.O.S.) system. The daily menu options with prices are always on the North Allegheny Website. All students buying lunch or snacks will enter his or her Personal Identification Number (P.I.N.) as they purchase their lunch or snack. Assistance will be given to all students at the beginning of the year as they enter their P.I.N. Parents may send in cash or a check payable to NA Cafeteria Fund at any time to deposit money into their child’s P.O.S. account. Cafeteria Payment envelopes should be used to include student name, Personal Identification Number (P.I.N.), and payment option. For those families with more than one child attending IES, please remember to use separate envelopes for each child.

If there are any questions or concerns, please contact the Food Service Office at 724-934-7201 or 7202. Parent/guardians are responsible for assuring that a student’s [POS] account remains up to date with a positive balance. The district also has an online payment system called PaySchools Central. Log in to PaySchools Central at payschoolscentral.com. More information on PaySchools Central can be found at PaySchools.com. Cafeteria time is meant to be a pleasant break in the day. Every student is expected to use proper table manners and speak in a normal tone of voice so that everyone may enjoy their lunch break. Restaurant-like behavior is expected, and students are to clean up after themselves.

Each year the North Allegheny School District publishes and distributes an Activities Calendar to each family. We hope that you will utilize this calendar, the district and Ingomar Elementary School websites, and district publications to stay on top of upcoming opportunities and events. A weekly newsletter is sent with current events listed.

In the event that a need to disseminate emergency or crisis communications to parents and/or students should arise, the North Allegheny School District has a number of communication methods in place to facilitate this process. These include:

• SchoolMessenger
• The district website (northallegheny.org )
• Local television and radio stations (for example: KDKA TV, 1020 AM radio)
• By email

SchoolMessenger is a web-based automated system and is one of the North Allegheny School District’s communication vehicles for the delivery of information to parents/guardians and staff via phone, email, and/or text. Messages may include attendance notifications, school delays or cancellations, information about a serious health-related issue or a crisis response update. 

School Messenger and PowerSchool SIS sync on a daily basis. This means that if you change a contact phone number or email address in PowerSchool, SchoolMessenger will be updated automatically with that new information the following day.

All parent/guardian phone numbers and email addresses are imported into SchoolMessenger from the PowerSchool SIS. SchoolMessenger imports the cell, home and work phone numbers, as well as the email, provided in PowerSchool for contacts.  

Please note that within SchoolMessenger you are not able to edit the information that is imported from the PowerSchool SIS. Parents and guardians can access PowerSchool via the Tiger ID Dashboard. For more information on Tiger ID, click here. If you would like to update your contact information or add additional phone numbers, please submit an "Update Your Parent/Guardian Contact Information Form," available under the Forms Menu in the PowerSchool Portal.

On a two-hour delay day, students are not to arrive before 10:50 AM; school begins at 11:00 AM. Lunch is served; however, no recess is held. School hours for Kindergarten on delay days will be 11:00 AM–12:45 PM for morning session
and 1:45–3:30 PM for afternoon session.

Students in grades K–5 will be using the Learning Management System, Canvas. Canvas is an app available on the student’s iPad, where teachers will post their daily agendas, assignments, and resources. Canvas also has a parent app that can be accessed through the parent’s Tiger ID account.

It is very important that we maintain an up-to-date address, telephone number, and email with the district. If you have a change of any demographic information during the school year, please follow these instructions to complete a “Change of Demographics” form in PowerSchool.

Parent-Teacher conferences will be held on November 2, 2026 and November 3, 2026. Parents are encouraged to attend if they need to discuss academic progress and student well-being. Additional conferences can be requested by families or teachers throughout the year. Information will be sent out prior to conferences for parents to sign up for a conference with their child’s teacher.

Our school counselor, Mrs. Julia Sweeney, is a part of the Ingomar Elementary School staff and is available to assist students, parents, and staff with academic, social, and emotional needs of students. To make an appointment with the counselor, please call the main office or email her at jsweeney@northallegheny.org

In the event a need to disseminate emergency or crisis communications to parents and/or students should arise, the North Allegheny School District has communication vehicles in place to facilitate this process. SchoolMessenger and the district website are great resources and have current information. Local television and radio stations also communicate delays and closing in a timely manner.

The district utilizes SchoolMessenger, an automated telephone notification system that will deliver a personalized message to parents and employees in minutes. As it is a web-based program, its reliability and availability will not be affected by local power or equipment failures.

Parents will be able to access their PowerSchool account to determine which, if any, phone number(s) they would like to have messages sent to and/or opt for an email or text alert when they have a new phone message. Parents may choose not to receive SchoolMessenger alerts, if they so desire.. SchoolMessenger will be used exclusively to broadcast weather-related cancellation or delay information, as well as other emergency or crisis-related messages. Please review the link for SchoolMessenger.

If a student is involved in custody arrangements or legal restrictions, parents must submit appropriate court documentation to the school. This ensures student safety and helps staff adhere to legal directives regarding pickups, communications, and access. Custody agreements or court orders must be signed. They will be kept on file in the main office and will be considered the most up to date copy unless a parent/guardian presents revised or new paperwork to the office.

Schools follow the District’s Code of Conduct and implement positive behavior support frameworks. Students are expected to show respect, responsibility, and safety in all settings. Behavior infractions are addressed progressively and may result in parent contact, loss of privileges, or administrative action. Please review the district’s Code of Conduct.

The instructional day ends at 3:20 PM, followed by pack-up for the end of the day. All students walking to their homes or with a scheduled “pick-up” will leave the classroom at 3:25 PM, to allow for a 3:30 PM dismissal. Parents requesting “pick-up” must adhere to the following procedures to assure the safety and welfare of our students:

A note/email MUST be sent to the child’s teacher (please copy the front office secretary) on the day the parent/guardian is planning on picking the student up from school. A “blanket note” can be submitted to the homeroom teacher and school secretary detailing a regular pick-up schedule (e.g. “every Tuesday”). Emails must be copied to the homeroom teacher and school secretary. All pick-up messages must be received prior to 2:30 PM. Emails should not be sent after 2:30 PM because it cannot be guaranteed that the email will be received in time for clear communication. In the event of an emergency after 2:30 PM, please call the school secretary.

Parents coming to pick a child up prior to 3:15 PM for an early dismissal, MUST report to the office before 3:15 PM and adhere to the office policy of signing students out and waiting for their child to meet them in the main office. Under no circumstances are parents/guardians permitted to go directly to the classrooms or bus lines.

Parents who will be picking their children up regularly or semi-regularly, will be assigned a number and provided with a corresponding school sign for their vehicle. Please be patient as a monitor may check ID in cases where the monitor is unfamiliar with the person picking a student up from school.

Parents will be directed to stay in their cars and follow a traffic pattern (below) to circle around the block, pulling through the lower lot to alleviate any jams on the main roadways and prevent parents with small children from having to take them out of their vehicles. This procedure will replace the need for individuals to be inside the school building, creating a more controlled dismissal environment.

• Cars should drive down Bellcrest Road, turn right on Ridge Road and then right on Grosick Road. Please be mindful to NOT block driveways on Grosick located by red box.
• Wait on the corner of the road marked in blue box A. A staff member will allow cars to enter and move to the blue box with B.
• A staff member will assist your child to get to your car.
• We are hopeful to get 10 cars into the parking lot and quickly load students. Please be prepared to buckle your child/dren in and pull out. We will then allow another 10 cars to enter and load.
• If your child is late, we may ask you to pull into a spot allowing other cars to move through the line.
• Walkers will be united with parents by the tree located by the blue box marked with an A.

If a child is to go home with someone other than his/her parent/guardian, a written note must be sent to the school or the child will not be released to another individual without verbal consent from the parent over the phone. Identification will also be requested for anyone picking up this child other than the parent or assigned guardian. See the “Early Dismissal” section of the handbook for information.

We are proud of the way our students dress. A student’s individual dress indicates both self-respect and respect for others. While the school accommodates a wide variety of individual tastes, inappropriate dress is not acceptable.

Guidelines

The following should be used in determining appropriate school attire:

1. Articles must be clean (not soiled with grease, oil, paint, or dirt).
2. Clothing with slogans/emblems, etc., is acceptable as long as they do not depict illegal substances, indecent writing, or indecent pictures.
3. Warm weather clothing is appropriate with the following guidelines: halter tops or tank tops with spaghetti straps, tops exposing the midriff or display of undergarments, and torn or ragged clothing are not permitted.
4. Oversized trousers present problems regarding safety both for the individual student and fellow classmates. School staff will insist that fitting pants are worn so that students can maneuver with ease, particularly in an emergency situation.
5. Items of dress that disrupt the educational process and climate are inappropriate. Students are not to wear hats during the school day inside the building, unless it is for an approved fundraiser or activity. This also includes bandanas and head scarves (unless the head covering is based on religious reasons or approved by administration for a unique situation).
6. Footwear must be worn by all students. Flip-flops and other backless shoes are not encouraged. “Wheelie shoes” are not permitted at school.
7. Shorts or skirts must reach at the fingertips while arms are hanging naturally at the sides.
8. Tights or leggings may not be used underneath shorts or skirts to substitute length. Leggings may only be worn under appropriate length (fingertip) shorts, skirts, or dresses.

Bringing Students to School in the Morning

Please enter the designated side parking lot off of Bellcrest Road (Students in Grades KG–2) or Grosick Road (Students in Grades 3–5) and circle around to the sidewalk to drop your child off in the designated area. If you have children in both grade spans, either lot may be utilized. Please do not park or pause longer than the few moments it takes for your child to exit your vehicle as traffic could be potentially affected and create unsafe circumstances.

Fire Lane

Parking in the fire lane is not permitted at any time.

Main Driveway in Front of IES

This road is closed to car traffic during the following times:

8:45–9:10 AM and 3:15–3:45 PM—Buses only
11:30 AM–12:00 Noon and 12:30–1:00 PM—Kindergarten drop-off and pick-up only

To leave school early, a written request must be sent to the office. Authorized adults must sign out the student at the main office. Early dismissals should be minimized to avoid instructional disruptions. Parents are encouraged to schedule medical and dental appointments after school hours if possible.

All students must be signed out at the office by the parent or guardian. When the parent/guardian comes into the office, the Visitor’s Dismissal Sign-out Log on the counter should be signed to indicate that they have picked up their child. Children are not permitted to leave the building early and wait outside.

Students are not encouraged to bring cell phones or other personal electronic devices to school. Communication is available as needed by calling the front office or emailing the homeroom teacher. The adults at school will inform your child of any information needed. Communicating directly with your child to change after school arrangements is a safety concern because the front office and homeroom teacher must be notified of any changes to ensure a safe transition. However, if your child is staying after school or walking to school or home, carrying a cell phone may be something a parent or guardian requests. At no time should a student’s cell phone be turned on during school hours. Parents and students should not be calling each other during the school day as it disrupts instruction. The use of a cell phone by a student may result in the cell phone being confiscated. Parents must pick up confiscated item from the office. School iPads are permitted and considered District property. Use of electronic devices must follow the Responsible Computer, Telecommunications, and Information Technology Use policy 224.1.

More and more students are wearing various types of smartwatches. Please do not contact your child throughout the school day via the smartwatch. It is disruptive to the school environment. Teachers and students should not be interrupted by smartwatches or cellphones during the school day. Please contact the front office or your child’s homeroom teacher if an emergency arises or after-school changes need to be communicated to your child.

Emergency drills will be held on a regularly scheduled basis during the course of the school year. The following is a list of drills and their scheduled frequency:

• Fire Drills—Monthly
• Emergency Weather Drill—Annually
• Emergency Drills (Hold, Lockdown or Secure)—Three drills annually
• Bus Evacuation Drills—August and March

The Standard Response Protocol (SRP) is based on the response to any given situation using common clear language—not codes or code words.

There is common vocabulary and symbols used with staff, students, parents, and emergency responders:

• Hold is a response that would clear the hallways, close and lock doors until the situation has been cleared.
• Lockdown is a safety response procedure that contains students and staff in safe locations within the building in the event of a threat to safety.
• Secure is a safety response that brings everyone inside the building and the perimeter is secured. No one is permitted in or out of the building during this time.
• If there is a need to Evacuate the building several locations are identified pending the emergency situation. Procedures are in place.
• Shelter is used in situations like weather related incidents such as tornadoes or earthquakes.

North Allegheny School District has a comprehensive safety plan that is continually discussed, rehearsed and evaluated. The district has adopted the use of the ALICE preparedness training model. The staff and students will be trained throughout the year to enhance our safety plans and to prepare everyone in the event of a critical incident. The district works closely with local emergency responders to ensure that safety plans are updated and promote a safe school environment. While safe evacuation from the building is sometimes the most prudent response to a threat to safety, such as a fire within the building, other responses can be appropriate pending the situation.

Every Monday is Encore Day. Encore is offered to students in grades 1–5. These special subject areas are Art, Music, Library and Physical Education. Homeroom teachers will notify students of the specific dates for each of the special subject area Encore days.

We operate an Elementary Student Assistance Program (ESAP) at Ingomar Elementary School, which is led by the school counselor, Mrs. Julia Sweeney. If your child is experiencing academic or social difficulty, you can make a referral through a teacher or the school counselor. The ESAP team meets throughout the school year to find interventions to promote student success in partnership with the parents and key school personnel. Teachers may also recommend a student receives support through ESAP. Parent permission is required for a child to receive support through ESAP.

Trips enhance learning beyond the classroom. Parents will receive details and must submit signed permission forms. Chaperones must be approved and follow school guidelines. Student behavior expectations apply during all trips.

All fundraising at Ingomar Elementary is voluntary for students and their families. An effort is being made to streamline these fundraisers and to shift more towards service projects by students, as opposed to only monetary donations.

Please visit the Health Services page of our website. You will find useful information about our medication policy, immunization requirements and health care information.

It is important that we have your current personal, work, and emergency phone numbers. In case of an emergency, accurate information can save valuable time in helping your child. Please remember to notify your child’s school at any time during the year of any changes in these numbers.

If you are planning to be out of town, please provide in writing the name of your child’s guardian and their contact information in your absence if it is someone who is not listed as an emergency contact. Without this consent, we cannot release your child to this caretaker. If there is a change in the custodianship of your child, please notify the office and provide copies of any pertinent court agreements for this change to be honored.

State Law requires every student who intends to enroll in a public school to provide evidence of a successful vaccination history. At various ages, different vaccinations are necessary for enrollment. Some of the immunizations necessary for K–12 students are diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, polio, measles, rubella, mumps, varicella, and meningitis. Should you have a question regarding the immunizations necessary for your child, please contact the School Nurse at (412) 366-9665. Visit the Health Service webpage for more information.

Medications will be administered by the nurses according to school policy which includes written parental permission, and a doctor’s order for both prescription and nonprescription (OTC—over the counter) medications. Please make sure to log into the SNAP Parent Health Portal to provide the necessary parental/guardian permission for the administration of acetaminophen or ibuprofen (age appropriate) as needed throughout the school year, for your child.

The following are a few important points to remember:

• Students are not permitted to carry medication with them at school. All medication is to be dispensed from the health office.
• Medication is to be brought to school by the parent/guardian in the original container. Never allow your child to transport medication. The health office cannot and will not administer any medication in a baggy, paper towel, etc. This is for your child’s safety and is against school policy for medications.
• Acetaminophen or ibuprofen may be administered with parental/guardian permission and at the discretion of the school nurse. Please remember to provide permission for the administration of these medicines via the SNAP Parent Health Portal.

Illness

Please keep your child home if he/she has any of the following symptoms:

• Temperature of 100 or greater (temperature should be normal for 24 hours before returning to school)
• Vomiting or diarrhea
• Persistent cough or thick nasal drainage
• Red, itchy eyes with discharge (Conjunctivitis—Pink Eye)

Immunizations

State Law requires every student who intends to enroll in a public school to provide evidence of a successful vaccination history. At various ages, different vaccinations are necessary for enrollment. Should you have a question regarding the immunizations necessary for your child, please contact your School Nurse. These can also be found on the Health Services Immunizations webpage.

The following illnesses require 24 hours of an antibiotic before returning to school:

• Strep throat
• Scarlet fever
• Conjunctivitis (pink eye)

Pediculosis (Lice)

If a child is suspected of having pediculosis (lice), the School Nurse will examine the suspected child and siblings. When head lice are found, the School Nurse will contact the parent of the child and provide educational materials concerning treatment and environmental control. Following treatment (this includes use of pediculicidal agent and nit removal), the School Nurse will examine your child’s head. Proof of treatment (pediculicidal agent or prescription packaging) must be provided to the School Nurse. Parents of the building will be notified via an email blast of the lice identification. Class or grade level will not be identified in the message.

Lice Facts

• Incubation: Eggs of lice hatch in one week and maturity is reached in 8-10 days.
• Symptoms: Irritation and itching of the scalp; presence of small light gray insects and/or their eggs (nits) which are attached to the base of the hairs and do not come off easily.
• Methods of Spread: Direct contact with an infected person and indirect contact with their personal belongings, especially headgear. Lice do not jump.
• Period of Communicability: While lice or nits remain alive on the infested person or belongings.
• Other information:
  • Lice have nothing to do with the cleanliness of one’s home, nor live on pets.
  • While lice are a nuisance, they are not life threatening. The district’s goals are for head lice to have minimal disruption to students’ educational experiences and minimize the stigmatizing impact on students and families.

Homeless Students

Under McKinney Vento all school districts are responsible for identifying students experiencing homelessness and connecting them with the resources needed to ensure academic success. Visit the district's Homeless Status Notification webpage.

Who is considered homeless?

Children or youth living in a shelter, transitional housing, hotel/motel,
vehicle, campground, on the street or doubled up with friends or family due to a lack of alternate resources are considered homeless. An unaccompanied homeless youth is a child or youth that is not in the care of their parent or legal guardian and meets the definition of homeless under McKinney Vento.

Where can students experiencing homelessness attend school?

The law indicates that homeless students have the right to remain in their school origin (the school they attended at the time of the homeless episode or last school attended) through the end of the school year in which they find permanent housing, provided it is in the child/youth’s best interest. If through consultation between the school and the family and/or unaccompanied youth it is determined that remaining in the school of origin is not in the student’s best interest, then the student has the right to immediately enroll in the school that non-homeless students living in the attendance area in which the child/youth is actually living are eligible to attend, even if they do not have all of the required documentation. Additionally, unaccompanied homeless youth have the right to immediately enroll in school, even if they do not have a legal guardian present.

What supports can school districts provide to homeless students?

Homeless students are eligible for supports and services to remove barriers to educational success. This may include transportation to the school of origin, free meals, referrals to physical/mental health providers, clothing to meet school requirements, access to school supplies and resources, assistance with credit recovery, tutoring supports, expedited evaluations and assistance to participate in school activities including parent engagement opportunities, sports, club, etc.

Homeless Dispute Process

If at any time there is a disagreement about homeless status or best interest for school placement, the district will notify the family in writing of their determination that the
family/unaccompanied youth is ineligible for McKinney Vento services. At this time, the district will provide the family/unaccompanied youth with the ability to dispute their determination.

Throughout the dispute process, the child/youth, including unaccompanied youth, will continue to be educated in the school of origin or immediately enrolled in the school they are seeking enrollment in until the dispute process is finalized. Transportation will continue throughout the dispute process. All disputes will be sent to the ECYEH Regional Coordinator who will issue a determination. If any party is unhappy with the determination, they can elevate the dispute to the state coordinator.

What if I think that I am eligible for services under McKinney Vento?

Contact Dr. Carrie Frohnapfel, Homeless Liaison for the North Allegheny School District at 412-630-5804 or cfrohnapfel@northalleghney.org

Homework reinforces classroom learning and fosters independence. Assignments should be age-appropriate and clearly communicated. Parents are encouraged to support routines but not complete the work for students. If homework becomes difficult, families should contact the teacher. Homework for all students should be listed on their teacher’s Canvas page.

All students have access to the Internet. The internet is accessible through their iPads. All students are expected to follow the North Allegheny Acceptable Use Policy when using technology at school. Policy 224.1

As part of our NASD Strategic/Comprehensive Plan and continued commitment to providing innovative and effective learning experiences, students in grades K-12 may be given access to district-approved generative AI tools (such as writing assistants, content generators, and tutoring aids) to support instruction, creativity, and productivity. These tools are carefully vetted by the district to ensure compliance with data privacy, security, and instructional standards. As students engage in our classroom learning experiences and instructional programs, families understand that their child may use district-approved learning tools under the guidance of a teacher and in accordance with district policies, including alignment with Board Policy 224.1 Responsible Computer, Telecommunications, and Information Technology Use.

Students are expected to use school-issued devices responsibly and only for educational purposes. Students will be restricted from accessing apps and websites that encourage passive consumption of digital content (e.g., video streaming, gamified content). Violations such as visiting inappropriate sites, attempting to bypass district content restrictions, or damaging devices may result in restricted access or disciplinary action.

Use of District-Approved Generative AI Tools

As part of our NASD Strategic/Comprehensive Plan and continued commitment to providing innovative and effective learning experiences, students in grades K-12 may be given access to district-approved generative AI tools (such as writing assistants, content generators, and tutoring aids) to support instruction, creativity, and productivity. These tools are carefully vetted by the district to ensure compliance with data privacy, security, and instructional standards. As students engage in our classroom learning experiences and instructional programs, families understand that their child may use district-approved learning tools under the guidance of a teacher and in accordance with district policies, including alignment with Board Policy 224.1 Responsible Computer, Telecommunications, and Information Technology Use.

After school intramural sport activities are offered to all 4th and 5th grade students. The purpose of this intramural program is to provide every student with a foundation for an active and healthy lifestyle, in which athletic competition is only a component of overall wellness. Our program stresses cooperative skills and team activities, such as basketball, soccer, hockey, and kickball.

Items like toys, sports equipment, trading cards, or game-like items from home should not be brought to school. Students should not trade items while at school. Students are NOT permitted to bring electronic equipment to school without permission from the principal. Some students may have a need to use sensory items. Teachers can ask students to place sensory items distracting from instruction in their backpacks. Children should not bring valuables or large sums of money to school. Water bottles should be brought to school, and filling stations are available to all students.

• AM Kindergarten begins at 9:00 AM and concludes at 11:45 AM
• PM Kindergarten begins at 12:45 PM and concludes at 3:30 PM

The district provides bus transportation to AM Kindergarten and from PM Kindergarten. The noontime transportation is the responsibility of the parents/guardians.

The library is supervised by the librarian or the library secretary. Library classes are held for all grade levels in the school, with the purpose of enhancing literacy skills, introducing students to research, and engaging them in the use of technological tools. Books are checked out during scheduled library classes. Each student may check out a set number of books for a one-week period. There is no fine for overdue books, but lost or damaged books must be paid for to keep the library up to date. Students are allowed to access the library with permission of their classroom teacher in the mornings.

Our library collection is constantly updated and expanded. Books are chosen for their educational or leisure value. Students are encouraged to find “just right” books to match and challenge their reading level.

Students are encouraged to help keep the building clean by depositing litter and garbage in the provided receptacles and to discard any litter that they see. We recycle at Ingomar Elementary School and work with students to instill in them an appreciation for the Earth and its care. Paper materials and bottles are recycled regularly and bins are made available to the students for use throughout the building.

Students are not permitted to chew gum in or on the school property, as a preventative measure to avoid vandalism, an unclean environment, and the potential for choking.

All clothing, lunch boxes, etc. found at school are placed in the lost and found box. Money, jewelry, or any other articles of value are turned into the office. Students and/or parents may claim items after proper identification. Those items which are not claimed will be donated to a charity mid-year and at the conclusion of the school year.

Placing names on all items brought to school is best practice to ensure items are returned.

The North Allegheny School District is committed to helping all children succeed. There are many ways to help children learn and ensure those who need additional support are successful. The Multi-Tier Systems of Support (MTSS) is one of the recommended best practices from the Pennsylvania Department of Education [PDE] to ensure ALL students meet continual academic and behavioral success. This support will be given to ALL students through ongoing collaboration involving teachers, administrators, families, and specialists. Through systematic district and school--wide efforts, students will be provided services based on the evaluation of individual needs through a universal screener, consistent progress monitoring, and collaborative problem-solving efforts. Please see additional
information under Testing and Screeners.

Visit the PTO website

The IES Parent Teacher Organization is an active part of the Ingomar Elementary School community. The PTO members volunteer and assist in many school functions, organize holiday parties, fund grade level field trips and capital projects, as well as fulfilling the role of liaisons for our school.

All parents are automatically active members of the PTO, simply by enrolling their child at Ingomar Elementary. As such, you are invited to become involved and to voice your opinions about how we could work as a team to better our school.

We have a wonderful PTO Executive Board, who would welcome communications from you and would be honored to have you present at our monthly meetings at Ingomar Elementary School. The executive includes:

• Allison Fedele, President
• Heather Deiuliis, Treasurer
• Wendy Gilch, Vice President
• Kelsey Blyakhor, Secretary
• Kimberly Antonelli, Technology Officer

For a complete listing of PTO meeting dates, Committee Chairpersons, and ideas for how to become more involved, please visit the Ingomar Elementary School PTO webpage. We are always looking to get the parents and community as involved as possible in our educational offerings.

Ingomar also has a very productive volunteer program. You may volunteer directly to work with students or indirectly by helping prepare materials that will be used in the classrooms. Please contact the PTO, your child’s teacher, or the main office at 412-366-9665. Any amount of time you volunteer is greatly appreciated. Thanks in advance for your dedication!

Individual student pictures in the fall and spring will be taken each year. Dates are listed on the district calendar and will be communicated in the newsletter. Pictures will be in the Ingomar Elementary School yearbook and are available for purchase by families within six weeks of the photography session.

The Positive Behavior Interventions and Supports Program provides realistic expectations necessary to take a proactive rather than a reactive approach when responding to behavioral and social issues. We maintain an inclusive environment for all students. A school environment that promotes No Bullying and resolves any type of conflict quickly. Expectations are taught, modeled, and communicated to all students throughout the school day:

As part of the program, students receive Tiger Tickets used for classroom and school-wide rewards. Teachers can determine rewards within his or her classroom including extra privileges, additional recess, PAWS movies (end of 9-weeks), prizes, lunch with the teacher, and notes home. Teachers may set incentives within the classroom. For example, students who receive three or less Paws-itive Behavior Think Sheets may not be allowed to participate in a fun activity during a 9-week period. Parents are integral in the process. Positive communication from the staff will occur to parents, and notification when
expectations are not followed will also occur. On occasions when students have not responded to verbal conversations, modeling, discussion, or jeopardized the safety or wellness of other students or themselves, a student may be given an IES PAWS-itive Behavior Think Sheet. This allows the students and staff to reflect on the concern, reinforce the importance of following clear expectations, and discuss ways to improve moving forward. This is a collaborative effort, and parents/guardians are sent the Think Sheet for review and discussion at home. This allows school/home collaboration to occur throughout the school year.

Below is an example of a Paws-itive Behavior Think Sheet:

Rewarding Positive Behavior is key to assisting in teaching expectations to students. However, in certain circumstances, students may receive more severe consequences for not following expectations. The principal will be involved with any of these discipline concerns. The North Allegheny Code of Conduct outlines discipline and consequences. At the elementary level, example of consequences that may occur include but are not limited to:

• Conferences with the principal
• Apology
• Letter or phone call to parents
• Loss of recess period(s)
• Recess and/or lunch in the office with Principal
• Loss of grade level or school-wide assembly, event, or PAW Activity
• Detention before or after school
• In-school suspension
• Out of school suspension
• Expulsion

Behavior of a more serious nature including violations involving weapons, fighting, bullying and/or harassment are outlined in the North Allegheny Code of Conduct.

We are fortunate at IES to have a large playground area. The teachers and playground assistants will explain rules for this area to all students. The proper use of equipment is modeled for students. Equipment rules are to be followed to keep all students safe. Failure to follow these rules may result in the loss of playground privileges or a Think Sheet.

The Rules Are as follows:

• Playground equipment will be used properly, in the manner for which it was intended and designed.
• Each child will show respect for adults and other children.
• When the whistle blows, children should put equipment away and get into a line.
• Toys from home should not be on the playground.
• Do not throw stones or other potentially dangerous objects.
• No chasing/tag games on the pavement area, only on grass or mulch surfaces.
• The area behind the shed is off limits.
• Ask for adult assistance and permission when retrieving equipment from behind the fence.
• No carrying other children.
• Stay in assigned areas.
• Snacks stay in the lunchroom only.
• Adhere to Buddy Bench rules.

On days with inclement weather, recess is held in the classrooms. We will not go outside if it is raining or storming or if the wind chill factor is below 20 degrees. However, we try to go out as often as possible, so dress appropriately on cold-weather days.

The school year is divided into four nine-week periods. Report cards posted on the student information system’s Parent Portal at the end of each nine-week period for grades 1–5. Kindergarten students receive report cards at the end of each semester.

North Allegheny School District and the Ingomar Elementary School PTO offer several after-school programs for our students. For any of the programs, students will be called to the appropriately assigned area at dismissal time. Transportation home is the responsibility of the parent. Students are not permitted to wander the building or parking lot.

Ingomar Elementary School is a smoke-free environment. Smoking is forbidden at school, as is the possession of tobacco, alcohol, or illegal substances.

The Art, Library, Music, and Physical Education courses make up the special area class rotations. These courses are an important part of each student’s educational experience. On Mondays Grades 1–5 have an Encore class. One of the special areas will be attended for 1 hour. This is done on a rotating basis allowing more time for in-depth projects.

Students in grades 4 and 5 may participate in the school’s chorus program. Two concerts are held during the school year for students, parents, and interested community members. In addition, students in grades 3 through 5 are encouraged to participate in the school’s orchestra program, and in grades 4 and 5 for the school’s band program.

Homeroom teachers will provide schedules allowing for the special area rotations to be known in advance for proper dress.

Encore Day is Held Each Monday

Encore Day Special Rotations (Encore Day) is an integrated approach to teaching special subject areas in one (1) hour blocks per grade level. These special subject areas are Art, Music, Physical Education, and Library. Homeroom teachers will notify students of the specific dates for each of the special subject area Encore days.

The following special education services, among others, are available for those students who meet the requirements: GOAL, Speech, Emotional Support and Learning Support. Contact the school counselor, principal, or Special Education Department if there are any questions about these programs.

The district has implemented a Student Information System called PowerSchool. An electronic Parent Portal is available, providing parents a web-based gradebook and reporting system with access to student records, schedule and academic performance, as well as the opportunity to update demographic and contact information.

If a parent/guardian or student detects a discrepancy in grade of attendance information, this issue should be addressed with the Teacher of Record for the class in question as soon as possible. Inaccuracies in demographic/contact information can be corrected through the student’s building administrative or office staff.

Typically, assignment scores/grades are posted within five (5) school days of the return of the assignment, with some exceptions based on the complexity of the assignment and/or project. The information provided through PowerSchool SIS’s Parent Portal is not in final form and is subject to change and correction.

A child who arrives at school after 9:05 AM is considered tardy. The parent/guardian must sign in at the office upon arrival. All students entering school after 9:00 AM MUST check into the office before going to the classroom. Failure to have the student sign in at the office may result in an absence being recorded for the student for the entire day.

There are three reasons recognized as valid excuses for tardiness: severe weather conditions; bus transportation difficulties; and personal accident or illness. A tardy student must stop in the office to receive a late slip to enter class and must submit a signed tardy note from the parent/guardian at that time.

The North Allegheny School District recognizes that the appropriate use of electronic devices can provide great potential for enhanced learning opportunities for all students. However, there are many other uses of electronic devices which can distract from the learning process or otherwise violate the rights of students; thus the use of electronic devices for legitimate educational purposes is permitted, only under the direction of the classroom teacher with approval from the building administration and in accordance with the Code of Conduct. Any student who violates these provisions of the Code of Conduct shall receive appropriate disciplinary action and may have his or her privileges regarding electronic devices temporarily or permanently revoked. Further, the student’s electronic device may be subject to confiscation, either temporary or permanent, and the district reserves the right to hold a confiscated item until a conference has been held with the student’s parent or guardian. Finally, if such violations could possibly constitute a crime under local, state and/or federal law, the district will report such conduct to the appropriate law enforcement agencies.

Electronic devices shall include all devices that can take photographs; record audio or video data; store, transmit or receive messages, data, or images; or provide a wireless, unfiltered connection to the Internet. Examples of these electronic devices include, but shall not be limited to, iPods, DVD players, handheld game consoles, Apple Watches, cellular phones and smart phones/watches, laptops or other student-owned computers, as well as any new
technology developed with similar capabilities of data storage or transmission. In the event a student is unsure whether the restrictions set forth in the Code of Conduct apply to a particular device, it is the student’s responsibility to verify with the appropriate classroom teacher or building administrator whether the device is subject to the Code of Conduct. The district is not liable for the loss, damage or misuse of an electronic device brought to school by a student.

Appropriate use of electronic devices shall include any use of such devices for educational purposes, such as educational research, which is specifically authorized by a classroom teacher with approval from the Building Administration. Inappropriate use of electronic devices has the potential to negatively impact the educational processes and individual students. Any use of electronic devices that leads to the disruption of the instructional/educational processes and/or violates the rights of individual students is a violation of the Code of Conduct.

PLEASE DO NOT EMAIL OR CONTACT YOUR CHILD DURING SCHOOL HOURS ON THEIR PERSONAL DEVICE SUCH AS A CELL PHONE OR SMART WATCH. CALL THE FRONT OFFICE.

Any student found to inappropriately use electronic devices will be subject to consequences set forth within the Code of Conduct. Infractions of this policy can result in a minimum of Level II consequences. In addition, such acts may be in violation of the (click to search for SB policies) North Allegheny School Board Policies:

• #249 Anti-Bullying/Cyberbullying
• #224.1 Responsible Computer, Telecommunications, and Information Technology Usage
• #237 Electronic Device

Inappropriate use of these devices includes, but is not limited to the following examples:

• Placing and/or receiving a call, text message, or other communication during instructional time (classroom instruction, study halls, and gymnasiums).
• The use of electronic devices in locker rooms and restrooms.
• Using any application on an electronic device which is not directly relevant to the instruction in the classroom and authorized by the classroom teacher.
• Taking, storing, disseminating, transferring, viewing or sharing of obscene, pornographic, lewd, inappropriate, unauthorized, or otherwise illegal images or photographs, whether by electronic data transfer or other means, including but not limited to texting and e-mailing.
• Using any electronic device for purposes which are in direct violation of other provisions within the North Allegheny School District’s Code of Conduct, such as bullying, cyber-bullying, cheating or otherwise violating academic integrity, or harassing or intimidating students or staff members.

The district shall enforce these provisions of the Code of Conduct regarding electronic devices on school grounds, district-operated school buses and other conveyances, and during any district-sponsored activities, whether or not occurring on school grounds. Such prohibited activity shall also apply to student conduct that occurs off school property if the prohibited conduct is (a) directed at another student or students, is (b) severe, persistent, or
pervasive, and (c) interferes with a student’s education, creates a threatening environment, or substantially disrupts orderly operations of school. Such activities in direct violation of the North Allegheny School Board Policies (detailed above) will result in violators being disciplined accordingly.

Various kinds of testing are administered throughout the school year. Results are used to help determine individual student progress and to adjust curriculum and instruction if necessary.

aimswebPlus

The aimswebPlus program is a web-based system that provides teachers data to identify students who will benefit from early intervention strategies and targeted instruction (remediation and enrichment). The screener is used in grades K–2, but it can be used in grades 3–5 when needed. AimswebPlus uses brief, valid, and reliable measures of foundational skills in reading and math. The system is designed to universally screen and progress monitor students. The screener is given three times a year.

STAR 360

Students in grades 3–5 will be utilizing STAR 360. Three times a year, students take an online assessment allowing teachers and students to gain information about learning strengths and areas to improve in the areas of reading and math.

Study Island Benchmark Assessments

The Study Island Benchmark Assessments are administered 2 or 3 times during the school year. This assessment is closely aligned with PSSA content, and is used to provide teachers in grades 3, 4, and 5 with additional information on the skill levels of individual students as well as to enhance instruction and intervention strategies within the classroom specific to students’ needs. Students do not receive grades.

Pennsylvania System of School Assessment (PSSA)

The Pennsylvania System of School Assessment (PSSA) is a criterion referenced test used to measure students’ progress toward mastering the Pennsylvania Academic Standards in grades 3 through 5. The academic standards identify proficiency levels in ELA and Math for grades 3 through 5, and Science in grade 5 (starting 24–25 school year). The dates for the PSSA tests are listed in the school calendar. Students are to be in school during the district
assessments and State (PSSA) testing, except in cases of illnesses. The dates for the tests are listed in the school calendar as well as the notifications from the school. As these tests are important, vacations will rarely be approved for the weeks of these tests. Due to the necessity to complete the tests within a given window for all students as mandated by the Pennsylvania State Department of Education, make-ups will occur for students during instructional time if missed.

District procedure states that the parent/guardian is responsible for the replacement cost of lost books or those damaged beyond use. School materials such as books, calculators, etc. that are assigned to students must be replaced if lost or damaged. The cost of textbooks/materials varies due to the original purchase price and age. If an item is later recovered, the amount paid will be returned assuming good condition.

All threats, verbal or written, must be taken seriously. For the safety of our students, all threats will be investigated and the School District’s Code of Conduct strictly enforced.

The parents or guardians of a student who wishes to have the student excused from compulsory school attendance to participate in an educational tour or trip must submit an application to the principal of the school in which the student is enrolled. Except for emergency situations, which must be fully explained, this request must be submitted
at least five (5) calendar days prior to the date on which the student seeks to be excused for compulsory attendance. If a student is absent for more than ten (10) school days, the student will be removed as a full-time student. The district will attempt to provide support to the student during the extended absence so that he/she is able to make successful reentry into the school upon their return. The family will need to reenroll the child upon return.

For students in grades 3–5, no vacations can be approved during the standardized tests, such as during the 3rd–5th grade PSSA testing. Please check the school calendar for the specific test dates. Upon request by a parent/guardian, teachers shall submit a list of student assignments/responsibilities for the period of absence during an approved absence. Assignments/responsibilities may be completed either prior to the absence or upon return to school. All assignments which are to be completed shall be submitted to the teacher(s) upon return to school or within a reasonable time as designated by the teacher(s). Days absent for vacation count as days absent from school since students are not present for the learning experience. Parents/Guardians are strongly encouraged to schedule vacations outside of the school year. Parents/Guardians are also encouraged to monitor days absent to avoid excessive absenteeism. Educational Tour Form.

All visitors must report to the office, register with Raptor, show ID, and wear a visitor badge. Visits should be pre-arranged and may be limited during testing or other sensitive times. Volunteer clearances are required for classroom or field trip involvement.

Volunteers are needed throughout the school year. Many volunteer opportunities are available through the PTO, but teachers may also ask for parent volunteers to assist in the classroom. In order to volunteer, please review the information on the Volunteer and Clearance Policy & Protocols webpage.

Walkers will be dismissed via the Public Address System. Students walk to the cafeteria and are dismissed via the cafeteria doors. Students should exit and begin walking home immediately. Remaining on school property may jeopardize their safety and cause stress to families when a student does not promptly arrive home.

Parents/Guardians requesting for their child to walk home from school must send a note/email to the secretary and homeroom teacher stating that their child has permission to walk home. Notes must be sent in on the day that the child is to walk home, or for reoccurring instances one note can be sent (i.e. walking home daily, or every Wednesday).

The North Allegheny School District strictly prohibits the possession or storage of weapons by students on school property. This is detailed in School Board Policy 218.1. For the purpose of this policy, the definition of a weapon also includes weapon “look-alikes.” The district’s Code of Conduct will be strictly adhered to if a weapon is brought to school.

The North Allegheny School District strives to improve the efficiency of communication with and access to information for parents/guardians. The district will send a building-specific email newsletter every Friday evening (except scheduled holiday breaks) to parents/guardians. This email will highlight the top happenings at each building, upcoming important dates, district information, and links to community flyers. Parents/guardians
will only receive emails from their student’s building. An archive of emails will be available on the district website and updated with the latest newsletters each Monday morning.

Parent/guardian email addresses are collected at the time of registration and are used to share district and building-level communications, and to provide updates from the district’s online gradebook and student information system. It is important for parents/guardians to update any changes in their email address by contacting the building secretary.