Lower Dauphin School District

Lower Dauphin School District is a midsized, suburban public school district located in central Pennsylvania. The district encompasses approximately 89 square miles (230 km²) and consists of Hummelstown, Pennsylvania, East Hanover Township, Pennsylvania, Londonderry Township, Dauphin County, Pennsylvania, South Hanover Township, Pennsylvania, and Conewago Township, Dauphin County, Pennsylvania. According to 2000 federal census data, the district served a resident population of 22,546. By 2010, the district's population increased to 24,747 people.[16] The educational attainment levels for the district's population (25 years old and over) were 91.2% high school graduates and 28.2% college graduates.[17] The district is one of the 500 public school districts of Pennsylvania.

Lower Dauphin School District
Location
Dauphin County, Pennsylvania United States
Information
Type	Public school district
Established	1952
School board	9 locally elected Board of School Directors
Superintendent	Dr. Robert Schultz [1](2018–current)[2]
Administrator	Mrs. Michelle Shuler, Business Manager
Staff	224 non-teaching staff (2013) 236 non-teaching staff (2011)
Faculty	277 (2013)[3] 269.4 (2008) (on FTE basis)[4]
Grades	K to 12
Number of pupils	3,710 pupils (2015)[5] 3,786 pupils (2013),[6] 3,832 pupils (2010–2011)[7] 3,880 pupils (2009–2010) 3,951 pupils (2006–07)[8]
• Kindergarten	248 (2012), 255 (2010)
• Grade 1	277 (2012), 279
• Grade 2	261 (2012), 278
• Grade 3	306 (2012), 277
• Grade 4	281 (2012), 314
• Grade 5	284 (2012), 302
• Grade 6	295 (2012), 313
• Grade 7	327 (2012), 300
• Grade 8	306 (2012), 335
• Grade 9	289 (2012), 299
• Grade 10	294 (2012), 323
• Grade 11	311 (2012), 307
• Grade 12	299 (2012), 298 (2010)
Student to teacher ratio	14.8[4]
Budget	$60.9 million (2014–2015)[9] $56.6 million (2013–2014)[10] $54,804 million (2011–2012)[11] $56.5 million (2010–2011)[12] $56.88 million (2009–2010)[13]
Tuition	for nonresident and charter school students ES – $9,501.29, HS – $9,163.28[14]
District size	90 sq mi (230 km^2)
Per pupil Spending 2010	$13,576.71
Per pupil Spending 2011	$13,777.23 (230th in PA for spending)
Website	[<span%20class="url">.org ldsd.org%20ldsd<wbr/>.org]</span>]
[15]

According to the Pennsylvania Budget and Policy Center, 20% of the district's pupils lived at 185% or below the Federal Poverty level as shown by their eligibility for the federal free or reduced price school meal programs in 2012.[18] In 2009, the district residents' per capita income was $23,890 a year, while the median family income was $58,643.[19] In Dauphin County, the median household income was $52,371.[20] By 2013, the median household income in the United States rose to $52,100.[21]

According to district officials, in school year 2007–08, the district provided basic educational services to 4,008 pupils through the employment of 315 teachers, 187 full-time and part-time support personnel, and 20 administrators. In school year 2009–10, enrollment declined to 3,938 pupils. The district employed 326 teachers, 213 full-time and part-time support personnel, and 22 administrators. The district received more than $17.3 million in state funding in school year 2009–10.[22] In school year 2014–15, enrollment declined to 3,786 pupils through the employment of 309 teachers, 200 full-time and part-time support personnel, and 23 administrators.[23]

Lower Dauphin High School students may choose to attend Dauphin County Technical School for training in the construction and mechanical trades. The district is served by Capital Area Intermediate Unit 15 which offers a variety of services, including a completely developed K-12 curriculum that is mapped and aligned with the Pennsylvania Academic Standards (available online), shared services, a group purchasing program, and a wide variety of special education and special needs services.

Governance

Lower Dauphin 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.[24] The federal government controls programs it funds like Title I funding for low-income children in the Elementary and Secondary Education Act and President George W. Bush's No Child Left Behind Act, (renamed Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA) in December 2015) which mandates the district focus resources on student success in acquiring reading and math skills.[25] The school board is required by state law to post a financial report on the district in its website by March of each school year.[26] The superintendent and business manager are appointed by the school board. The superintendent is the chief administrative officer with overall responsibility for all aspects of operations, including education and finance. The business manager is responsible for budget and financial operations. Neither of these officials are voting members of the school board. The school board enters into individual employment contracts for these positions. These contracts must be in writing and are subject to public disclosure under the state's Right to Know Act. In Pennsylvania, public school districts are required to give 150 days notice to the superintendent regarding renewal of the employment contract.[27] Pursuant to Act 141 of 2012 which amended the Pennsylvania School Code, all school districts that have hired superintendents on/after the fall of 2012 are required to develop objective performance standards and post them on the district's website.[28]

The Commonwealth Foundation for Public Policy Alternatives Sunshine Review gave the school board and district administration a "F" 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.[29]

Schools

The High School building is located in Hummelstown, as well as its administrative building, Price School building, and one of the elementary schools. The school district was first established in the early 1950s.

Elementary Schools

• Conewago Elementary School – Principal - Dr. David Wuestner
• East Hanover Elementary School – Principal - Mrs. Lindsay Adams
• Londonderry Elementary School – Principal - Mrs. Kathryn Ringso
• Nye Elementary School – Principal - Mr. Bryan MacLeod
• South Hanover Elementary School – Principal - Mr. Steve Schoessler

Secondary Schools

• Lower Dauphin Middle School – Principal - Ms. Jill Freedman
• Price School – alternative education and online program grades 6–11
• Lower Dauphin High School – Principal - Mr. Justin Hanula

Academic achievement

In 2015, the Lower Dauphin School District ranked 76th out of 496 Pennsylvania public school districts, by the Pittsburgh Business Times.[30] 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.[31] 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.

2014 – 86th[32] 2013 – 119th 2012 – 95th[33] 2011 – 106th[34]

2010 – 109th[35] 2009 – 109th 2008 – 142nd 2007 – 123rd[36]

Overachievers Ranking

In 2012, the Pittsburgh Business Times reported an Overachievers Ranking for 498 Pennsylvania school districts. Lower Dauphin ranked 340th. The paper describes the ranking as: "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."[37]

• 2011 – 327th
• 2010 – 335th[38]
• 2009 – 341st

AYP history

In 2012, Lower Dauphin School District declined to Warning Adequate Yearly Progress (AYP) status.[39] In 2011, Lower Dauphin School District achieved AYP status. From 2006 through 2010 the district achieved Adequate Yearly Progress (AYP) status. In 2005, the district was in Making Progress School Improvement I AYP status, while in 2004 the district declined to School Improvement I AYP status. In 2003, the district was in Warning status.[40]

Graduation rate

In 2015, Lower Dauphin School District's graduation rate was 92.95%.[41]

• 2014 – 93.86%.[42]
• 2013 – 93.46%.[43]
• 2012 – 93%.[44]
• 2011 – 96%.[45]
• 2010 – 95%, the Pennsylvania Department of Education issued a new, 4-year cohort graduation rate.[46]

According to traditional graduation rate calculations

• 2010 – 94% [47]
• 2009 – 96%[48]
• 2008 – 89%[49]
• 2007 – 89%[50]

High school

Lower Dauphin High School is located at 201 S Hanover Street, Hummelstown. In 2015, enrollment was reported as 1,174 pupils in 9th through 12th grades, with 15.8% of pupils eligible for a free lunch due to family poverty. Additionally, 15.78% of pupils received special education services, while 2.3% of pupils were identified as gifted.[51] The school employed 88 teachers.[52] Per the Pennsylvania Department of Education, 100% of the teachers were rated "Highly Qualified" under the federal No Child Left Behind Act.

In 2013, enrollment was reported as 1,176 pupils in 9th through 12th grades, with 13% of pupils eligible for a free lunch due to family poverty. Additionally, 15% of pupils received special education services, while 5.9% of pupils were identified as gifted. The school employed 88 teachers.[53] Per the PA Department of Education 100% of the teachers were rated "Highly Qualified" under the federal No Child Left Behind Act. The school is not a federally designated Title I school.

According to the National Center for Education Statistics, in 2011, the school reported an enrollment of 1,193 pupils in grades 9th through 12th, with 184 pupils eligible for a federal free or reduced-price lunch due to the family meeting the federal poverty level. In 2011, the school employed 87 teachers, yielding a student-teacher ratio of 13:1.[54] According to a report by the Pennsylvania Department of Education, 100% of its teachers were rated "Highly Qualified" under No Child Left Behind.[55]

2015 School Performance Profile

Lower Dauphin High School declined to 84.9 out of 100. Reflects on-grade-level reading, mathematics and science achievement. The PDE reported that 80% of the high school's students were on grade level in reading/literature. In Algebra 1, 78% of students showed on-grade-level skills at the end of the course. In Biology I, 69% demonstrated on-grade-level science understanding at the end of the course.[56] Statewide, 53 percent of schools with an eleventh grade achieved an academic score of 70 or better. Five percent of the 2,033 schools with 11th grade were scored at 90 and above; 20 percent were scored between 80 and 89; 28 percent between 70 and 79; 25 percent between 60 and 69 and 22 percent below 60. The Keystone Exam results showed: 73 percent of students statewide scored at grade-level in English, 64 percent in Algebra I and 59 percent in biology.[57][58]

2014 School Performance Profile

Lower Dauphin High School achieved 91.9 out of 100. Reflects on-grade-level reading, mathematics and science achievement. In reading/literature – 85% were on grade level. In Algebra 1, 77% showed on-grade-level skills at the end of the course. In Biology, 69% demonstrated on-grade-level science understanding at the end of the course.[59][60] Statewide, the percentage of high school students who scored proficient and advanced in Algebra I increased to 39.7% to 40.1%. The percentage of high school students who scored proficient and advanced in reading/literature declined to 52.5%. The percentage of high school students who scored proficient and advanced in biology improved from 39.7% to 41.4%.[61]

2013 School Performance Profile

Lower Dauphin High School achieved 92.3 out of 100. Reflects on-grade-level reading, mathematics and science achievement. In reading/literature – 83.5% were on grade level. In Algebra 1, 73% showed on-grade-level mathematics skills. In Biology, 64% showed on-grade-level science understanding.[62] 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, beginning in 2012, they take the Keystone Exams at the end of the associated course.[63]

AYP status history

In 2012, Lower Dauphin Senior High School declined to Warning Adequate Yearly progress (AYP) status due to achieving 10 of 19 metrics measured.[64] In 2011 and 2010, Lower Dauphin Senior High School achieved AYP status.[65] In 2012, the Pennsylvania Department of Education reported that 100% of the 92 teachers at the high school were rated "highly qualified" under No Child Left Behind. The school's enrollment was 1,219 students in grades 9th through 12, with 154 pupils eligible for a federal free or reduced-price lunch due to family poverty.

See Lower Dauphin High School's own wiki page for much more information.

Middle schools

Lower Dauphin Middle School is located at 251 Quarry Road, Hummelstown. In 2015, enrollment was pupils, in grades 6th through 8th, with 22.8% of pupils eligible for a free lunch due to family poverty. Additionally, 16% of pupils received special education services, while 6% of pupils were identified as gifted.[66] According to a 2015 report by the Pennsylvania Department of Education, 100% of its teachers were rated "Highly Qualified" under No Child Left Behind.[67]

In 2013, Lower Dauphin Middle School's enrollment was 924 pupils in grades 6th through 8th, with 18% of the pupils eligible for a free or reduced-price lunch due to family poverty. Additionally, 14% of pupils received special education services, while 6.49% are identified as gifted. In 2013, the attendance rate was 95.9%.[68]

2015 School Performance Profile

The Pennsylvania Department of Education reported that 68% of 8th grade students at Lower Dauphin Middle School students were on grade level in reading on the PSSAs given in April 2015. In math/Algebra 1, 52% of 8th grade students showed on-grade-level skills. In science, 73% of the school's 8th graders demonstrated on-grade-level science understanding. No eighth grade writing scores were reported. In 7th grade, 69% were on grade level in reading, while 44% showed on-grade-level math skills. Among 6th graders, 80% were on grade level in reading and 55% were on grade level in mathematics.[69] Statewide 58% of eighth (8th) graders were on grade level in reading, while 29% demonstrated on-grade-level math skills. Pennsylvania 7th graders were 58% on grade level in reading and 33% demonstrated on-grade-level math skills. Among sixth (6th) graders, 60.7% were reading on grade level, while 39.7% demonstrated on-grade-level math skills.[70]

2014 School Performance Profile

Lower Dauphin Middle School achieved 78.3 out of 100. Reflects on-grade-level reading, mathematics and science achievement. In reading/literature – 80% were on grade level. In Algebra 1/Math, 84% showed on-grade-level mathematics skills. In Science, 71% of 8th graders showed on-grade-level science understanding. In writing, 83% of the 8th grade students demonstrated on-grade-level writing skills.[71]

2013 School Performance Profile

Lower Dauphin Middle School achieved 89.9 out of 100. Reflects on-grade-level reading, writing, mathematics and science achievement. In reading, 80% of the students were on grade level. In Mathematics/Algebra 1, 87% of the students showed on-grade-level skills. In Science, 76.7% of the 8th graders demonstrated on-grade-level understanding. In writing, 90% of the 8th grade students demonstrated on-grade-level writing skills.[72]

AYP history

In 2011 and 2012, the Lower Dauphin Middle School achieved Adequate Yearly Progress (AYP) status.[73] The attendance rate was 94%.[74] In 2010, the attendance rate was 95%.[75]

• 2006 – Making Progress School Improvement Level I status.[76]
• 2005 – declined to School Improvement Level II status. Under No CHild Left Behind, the administration was mandated to inform parents of the poor academic achievement and to offer a transfer to a better achieving school within the district.
• 2004 – declined to School Improvement Level I status. The administration was required by the Pennsylvania Department of Education to develop a plan to improve academic achievement.
• 2003 – Warning AYP status due to lagging academic achievement

PSSA results

Sixth and seventh grades have been tested in reading and mathematics since 2006. Eighth graders are tested in: reading, writing, mathematics and Science. Beginning in the Spring of 2013, eighth graders, who are enrolled in Algebra I take the Keystone Exam for Algebra I at the end of the course. The testing of 8th grade in reading and mathematics began in 1999.[77] Testing in science began in 2007. The goal is for 100% of students to be on grade level or better in reading and mathematics, by the Spring of 2014. The tests focus on the state's Academic Standards for reading, writing, mathematics and science.[78] The standards were published in 1998 and are mandated by the Pennsylvania State Board of Education.[79] In 2014, the Commonwealth adopted the Pennsylvania Core Standards – Mathematics.[80]

8th Grade Reading: 2012 – 83% on grade level (7% below basic). In Pennsylvania, 79% of 8th graders on grade level.[81] 2011 – 89% (2% below basic). State – 81.8%[82] 2010 – 87%, State – 81%[83] 2009 – 86%, State – 80%[84] 2008 – 89%, State – 78%[85] 2007 – 84%, State – 75%[86]

8th Grade Math: 2012 – 88% on grade level (6% below basic). State – 76% [87] 2011 – 89% (6% below basic). State – 76.9% 2010 – 88%, State – 75% 2009 – 80%, State – 71%[88] 2008 – 87%, State – 70% 2007 – 80%, State – 68%

8th Grade Science:

• 2012 – 66% on grade level (13% below basic). State – 59% of 8th graders were on grade level.
• 2011 – 72% (12% below basic). State – 58.3%
• 2010 – 75%, State – 57%
• 2009 – 66%, State – 54%
• 2008 – 69%, State – 53%

7th Grade Reading: 2012 – 85% on grade level (4% below basic). State – 76% 2011 – 83% (5% below basic). State – 76% 2010 – 83%, State – 73% 2009 – 83%, State – 71% 2009 – 78%, State – 70% 2009 – 81%, State – 67%

7th Grade Math: 2012 – 94% (3% below basic). State – 80% 2011 – 87% (7% below basic). State – 78.6% 2010 – 90%, State – 77% 2009 – 84%, State – 75% 2008 – 77%, State – 71% 2007 – 87%, State – 67%

6th Grade Reading: 2012 – 78% (10% below basic). State – 68% 2011 – 81% (5% below basic). State – 69.9% 2010 – 83%, State – 68% 2009 – 82%, State – 67% 2008 – 81%, State – 67% 2007 – 72%, State – 63%

6th Grade Math: 2012 – 84% (5% below basic). State – 77% 2011 – 89% (4% below basic). State – 78.8% 2010 – 84%, State – 78% 2009 – 86%, State – 75% 2008 – 85%, State – 69% 2007 – 76%, State – 69%

Dropout Early Warning System

In 2013, Lower Dauphin School District did not implement a state dropout prevention Early Warning System and Interventions Catalog at the middle school.[89] The process identifies students at risk for dropping out by examining the pupil's: attendance, behavior and course grades. Interventions are implemented to assist at-risk pupils to remain in school. The program is funded by federal and private dollars.[90]

Price School is located at 101 East High Street, Hummelstown. In 2013, the school's enrollment was 13 pupils in grades 6th through 11th, with 69% of the pupils eligible for a free or reduced-price lunch due to family poverty. Additionally, 100% of pupils received special education services, while none are identified as gifted. No School Performance Profile data on annual academic achievement was made available by the State.[91]

Conewago Elementary School

Conewago Elementary School is located at 2809 Hershey Road, Elizabethtown. In 2015, the school's enrollment was 202 pupils in grades kindergarten through 6th, with 19% of pupils receiving a federal free or reduced-price meals due to family poverty. Additionally, 13.8% of the pupils receive special education services, while 3.9% are identified as gifted.[92] 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 kindergarten.[93] The school is not a federally designated Title I school.

In 2013, the school's enrollment was 206 pupils in grades kindergarten through 5th, with 16.5% of pupils receiving a federal free or reduced-price meals due to family poverty. Additionally, 12% of the pupils receive special education services, while 2.91% are identified as gifted.[94] 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 kindergarten.[95] The school is not a federally designated Title I school.

According to the National Center for Education Statistics, in 2011, enrollment was 188 pupils in grades K through 5th, with 24 pupils receiving a free or reduced-price lunch. The school employed 13 teachers, yielding a student-teacher ratio of 13:1.[96] Conewago Elementary School achieved Adequate Yearly Progress every school year from 2003 through 2012.[97]

2015 School Performance Profile

According to the Pennsylvania Department of Education, 89% of 5th grade students at Conewago Elementary School were on grade level in reading on the PSSAs given in April 2015. In mathematics, 68% of 5th grade students showed on-grade-level skills. No fifth grade writing scores were reported. In 4th grade, 87% were on grade level in reading, while 74% showed on-grade-level math skills. In science, 90% of fourth graders showed on-grade-level understanding. Among third (3rd) graders, just 66% were on grade level in reading and only 58% were on grade level in mathematics.[98] Statewide 61.9% of fifth (5th) graders were on grade level in reading, while 42.8% demonstrated on-grade-level math skills. Pennsylvania 4th graders were 58.6% on grade level in reading and 44.4% demonstrated on-grade-level math skills. In science, 77.3% of fourth graders showed on-grade-level understanding. Among Pennsylvania third (3rd) graders, 62% were reading on grade level, while 48.5% demonstrated on-grade-level math skills.[99]

2014 School Performance Profile

Conewago Elementary School achieved a score of 88.6 out of 100. The score reflects on grade level: reading, science, writing and mathematics achievement. In 2013–14, 86% of the students were reading on grade level in grades 3rd through 5th. In 3rd grade, 100% of the pupils were reading on grade level. In math, 94.7% were on grade level (3rd–5th grades). In 4th grade science, 88% of the pupils demonstrated on-grade-level understanding. In writing, 83% of 5th grade pupils demonstrated on-grade-level skills.[100]

2013 School Performance Profile

Conewago Elementary School achieved a score of 83 out of 100. The score reflects on grade level: reading, science, writing and mathematics achievement. In 2012–13, 83% of the students were reading on grade level in grades 3rd through 5th. In 3rd grade, 82% of the pupils were reading on grade level. In math, 89% were on grade level (3rd–5th grades). In 4th grade science, 90% of the pupils demonstrated on-grade-level understanding. In writing 86% of 5th grade pupils demonstrated on-grade-level writing skills.[101]

East Hanover Elementary School

East Hanover Elementary School is located at 2673 Sand Beach Road, Grantville. In 2015, East Hanover Elementary School's enrollment was 415 pupils in grades kindergarten through 5th, with 25% of pupils receiving a federal free or reduced-price meals due to family poverty. Additionally, 13% of the pupils receive special education services, while 2% are identified as gifted.[102] 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 kindergarten.[103] As of the 2016–17 school year, East Hanover Elementary School provides a full-day kindergarten classroom through a pilot program.[104] The school is a federally designated Title I school.

In 2013, the enrollment was 402 pupils in grades Kindergarten through 5th, with 24.8% receiving a free or reduced-price lunch due to family poverty. Additionally, 13.6% of the pupils receive special education services, while 2.2% are identified as gifted.[105] According to a report by the Pennsylvania Department of Education, 100% of the teachers at East Hanover Elementary School, were rated highly qualified under No Child Left Behind. The school provides half-day kindergarten.[106] East Hanover Elementary School is a federally designated Title I school.

According to the National Center for Education Statistics, in 2011, enrollment was 389 pupils in grades kindergarten through 5th, with 83 pupils receiving a free or reduced-price lunch. East Hanover Elementary School employed 24 teachers, yielding a student-teacher ratio of 16:1.[107] East Hanover Elementary School achieved Adequate Yearly Progress each school year 2003 through 2012.[108]

2015 School Performance Profile

According to the Pennsylvania Department of Education, 67% of 5th grade students at East Hanover Elementary School were on grade level in reading on the PSSAs given in April 2015. In mathematics, 58% of 5th grade students showed on-grade-level skills. No fifth grade writing scores were reported. In 4th grade, 57% were on grade level in reading, while 48% showed on-grade-level math skills. In science, 78% of fourth graders showed on-grade-level understanding. Among third (3rd) graders, 79% were on grade level in reading and 66% were on grade level in mathematics.[109]

2014 School Performance Profile

East Hanover Elementary School achieved a score of 77.1 out of 100. The score reflects on grade level: reading, science, writing and mathematics achievement. In 2013–14, 79% of the students were reading on grade level in grades 3rd through 5th. In 3rd grade, 79% of the pupils were reading on grade level. In math, 84% were on grade level (3rd–5th grades). In 4th grade science, 87% of the pupils demonstrated on-grade-level understanding. In writing, only 59% of 5th grade pupils demonstrated on-grade-level skills.[110]

2013 School Performance Profile

East Hanover Elementary School achieved a score of 82.2 out of 100. The score reflects on grade level: reading, science, writing and mathematics achievement. In 2012–13, 78% of the students were reading on grade level in grades 3rd through 5th. In 3rd grade, 81% of the pupils were reading on grade level. In math, 81% were on grade level (3rd–5th grades). In 4th grade science, 85.9% of the pupils demonstrated on-grade-level understanding. In writing, 83% of 5th grade pupils demonstrated on-grade-level skills.[111]

Londonderry Elementary School

Londonderry Elementary School is located at 260 Schoolhouse Road, Middletown. In 2015, the school's enrollment was 280 pupils in grades kindergarten through 5th, with 33.9% of pupils receiving a federal free or reduced-price meals due to family poverty. Additionally, 18.9% of the pupils receive special education services, while 3.9% are identified as gifted.[112] According to a report by the Pennsylvania Department of Education, 100% of the teachers were rated highly qualified under No Child Left Behind. Londonderry Elementary School provides half-day kindergarten.[113] The school is a federally designated Title I school.

In 2013, Londonderry Elementary School enrollment was 341 pupils in grades kindergarten through 5th, with 41% of pupils receiving a federal free or reduced-price meals due to family poverty. Additionally, 22% of the pupils receive special education services, while 1.17% are identified as gifted.[114] 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 kindergarten.[115] The school was a federally designated Title I school.

According to the National Center for Education Statistics, in 2010, enrollment was 343 pupils in grades kindergarten through 5th, with 138 pupils receiving a free or reduced-price lunch. Londonderry Elementary School employed 32 teachers, yielding a student-teacher ratio of 11:1.[116] In 2012, Londonderry Elementary School declined to Warning AYP status due to lagging student achievement in reading and mathematics. In 2011, the school achieved AYP status.[117][118] From 2033 through 2010, Londonderry Elementary School achieved AYP status each school year.

2015 School Performance Profile

According to the Pennsylvania Department of Education, 73% of 5th grade students at Londonderry Elementary School were on grade level in reading on the PSSAs given in April 2015. In mathematics, 47% of 5th grade students showed on-grade-level skills. No fifth grade writing scores were reported. In 4th grade, 72% were on grade level in reading, while 63% showed on-grade-level math skills. In science, 88% of fourth graders showed on-grade-level understanding. Among third (3rd) graders, 82% were on grade level in reading and 75% were on grade level in mathematics.[119]

2014 School Performance Profile

Londonderry Elementary School achieved a score of 71.6 out of 100. The score reflects on grade level: reading, science, writing and mathematics achievement. In 2013–14, 79% of the students were reading on grade level in grades 3rd through 5th. In 3rd grade, 82% of the pupils were reading on grade level. In math, 81% were on grade level (3rd–5th grades). In 4th grade science, 82% of the pupils demonstrated on-grade-level understanding. In writing, 47% of 5th grade pupils demonstrated on-grade-level skills.[120]

2013 School Performance Profile

Londonderry Elementary School achieved a score of 85.8 out of 100. The score reflects on grade level: reading, science, writing and mathematics achievement. In 2012–13, 81% of the students were reading on grade level in grades 3rd through 5th. In 3rd grade, 88% of the pupils were reading on grade level. In math, 80% were on grade level (3rd–5th grades). In 4th grade science, 87% of the pupils demonstrated on-grade-level understanding. In writing, only 65% of 5th grade pupils demonstrated on-grade-level writing skills.[121]

Nye Elementary School

Nye Elementary School is located at 200 South John Street, Hummelstown. In 2015, the school's enrollment was 368 pupils in grades kindergarten through 5th, with 23% of pupils receiving a federal free or reduced-price meals due to family poverty. Additionally, 13.5% of the pupils receive special education services, while 2% are identified as gifted.[122] 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.[123] The school is a federally designated Title I school.

In 2013, Nye Elementary School enrollment was 334 pupils in grades kindergarten through 5th, with 21% of pupils receiving a federal free or reduced-price meals due to family poverty. Additionally, 17% of the pupils receive special education services, while 0.90% are identified as gifted.[124] According to a report by the Pennsylvania Department of Education, 100% of the teachers were rated highly qualified under the federal No Child Left Behind Act. The school provided both half-day kindergarten and full-day kindergarten.[125] The school is a federally designated Title I school.

2015 School Performance Profile

According to the Pennsylvania Department of Education, 80% of 5th grade students at Nye Elementary School were on grade level in reading on the PSSAs given in April 2015. In mathematics, 51% of 5th grade students showed on-grade-level skills. No fifth grade writing scores were reported. In 4th grade, 70% were on grade level in reading, while 52% showed on-grade-level math skills. In science, 85% of fourth graders showed on-grade-level understanding. Among third (3rd) graders, 68% were on grade level in reading and 60% were on grade level in mathematics.[126]

2014 School Performance Profile

Nye Elementary School achieved a score of 84.2 out of 100. The score reflects on grade level: reading, science, writing and mathematics achievement. In 2013–14, 84% of the students were reading on grade level in grades 3rd through 5th. In 3rd grade, 80% of the pupils were reading on grade level. In math, 89% were on grade level (3rd–5th grades). In 4th grade science, 91% of the pupils demonstrated on-grade-level understanding. In writing, 81% of 5th grade pupils demonstrated on-grade-level skills.[127]

2013 School Performance Profile

Nye Elementary School achieved a score of 91.9 out of 100. The score reflects on grade level: reading, science, writing and mathematics achievement. In 2012–13, 86% of the students were reading on grade level in grades 3rd through 5th. In 3rd grade, 94% of the pupils were reading on grade level. In math, 94% were on grade level (3rd–5th grades). In 4th grade science, 86% of the pupils demonstrated on-grade-level understanding. In writing, 88% of 5th grade pupils demonstrated on-grade-level skills.[128]

AYP status

In 2003 through 2012, Nye Elementary School achieved AYP status each school year.[129][130]

South Hanover Elementary School

South Hanover Elementary School is located at 15 West 3rd Street, Hershey.The principal is Steve Schesslor. In 2015, the school's enrollment was 389 pupils in grades kindergarten through 5th, with 8.7% of pupils receiving a federal free or reduced-price meals due to family poverty. Additionally, 10% of the pupils receive special education services, while 5% are identified as gifted.[131] According to a report by the Pennsylvania Department of Education, 100% of the teachers were rated highly qualified under No Child Left Behind. The school provides full-day kindergarten.[132] The school is not a federally designated Title I school.

In 2013, South Hanover Elementary School's enrollment was 382 pupils in grades kindergarten through 5th, with 8% of pupils receiving a federal free or reduced-price meals due to family poverty. Additionally, 11% of the pupils receive special education services, while 4% are identified as gifted.[133] According to a report by the Pennsylvania Department of Education, 100% of the teachers were rated highly qualified under the federal No Child Left Behind Act. The school provides half-day kindergarten.[134] The school is not a federally designated Title I school.

2015 School Performance Profile

According to the Pennsylvania Department of Education, 79% of 5th grade students at South Hanover Elementary School were on grade level in reading on the PSSAs given in April 2015. In mathematics, 67% of 5th grade students showed on-grade-level skills. No fifth grade writing scores were reported. In 4th grade, 79% were on grade level in reading, while 66% showed on-grade-level math skills. In science, 87% of fourth graders showed on-grade-level understanding. Among third (3rd) graders, 97% were on grade level in reading and 88% were on grade level in mathematics.[135]

2014 School Performance Profile

South Hanover Elementary School achieved a score of 84.5 out of 100. The score reflects on grade level: reading, science, writing and mathematics achievement. In 2013–14, 89% of the students were reading on grade level in grades 3rd through 5th. In 3rd grade, 90% of the pupils were reading on grade level. In math, 94% were on grade level (3rd–5th grades). In 4th grade science, 94% of the pupils demonstrated on-grade-level understanding. In writing, 79% of 5th grade pupils demonstrated on-grade-level skills.[136]

2013 School Performance Profile

South Hanover Elementary School achieved a score of 88.6 out of 100. The score reflects on grade level: reading, science, writing and mathematics achievement. In 2012–13, 87% of the students were reading on grade level in grades 3rd through 5th. In 3rd grade, 92% of the pupils were reading on grade level. In math, 95% were on grade level (3rd–5th grades). In 4th grade science, 91% of the pupils demonstrated on-grade-level understanding. In writing, 88% of 5th grade pupils demonstrated on-grade-level writing skills.[137]

AYP status

From 2003 through 2012, South hanover Elementary School achieved AYP status each year.[138][139]

Special education

In December 2013, the district administration reported that 604 pupils, or 15.6% of the district's pupils, received special education services, with 37.7% of the identified students having a specific learning disability.[140] In December 2012, the district administration reported that 624 pupils, or 16% of the district's pupils, received special education services, with 38% of the identified students having a specific learning disability.[141]

In December 2010, the district administration reported that 675 pupils, or 17% of the district's pupils, received special education services, with 45% of identified students having specific learning disabilities.[142]

In 2007, Pennsylvania Secretary of Education Gerald Zahorchak testified before the Pennsylvania House Education Committee regarding full-day kindergarten. He claimed that districts which offered the program would see a significant decrease in special education students due to early identification and early intervention. He asserted the high cost of full-day kindergarten would be recouped by districts in lower special education costs.[143] Lower Dauphin School District has seen a decrease in the percentage of special education students it serves, without implementing universal all-day kindergarten.

To comply with state and federal Individuals with Disabilities Education Act rules and regulations, Lower Dauphin 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.[144] To identify students who may be eligible for special education services, 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 district's Special Education Department.[145][146] The IDEA 2004 requires each school entity to publish a notice to parents, in newspapers or other media, including the student handbook and website regarding the availability of screening and intervention services and how to access them.

In 2010, the state of Pennsylvania provided $1,026,815,000 for special education services. This funding is in addition to the state's basic education per pupil funding, as well as, all other state and federal funding.[147] 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.[148] The state requires each district to have a three-year special education plan to meet the unique needs of its special education students.[149] Overidentification of students, 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.[150] The state requires each public school district and charter school to have a three-year special education plan to meet the unique needs of its special education students.[151] In 2012, the Obama Administration's US Department of Education issued a directive requiring schools include students with disabilities in extracurricular activities, including sports.[152]

The Lower Dauphin School District received a $2,091,242 supplement for special education services in 2010.[153] For the 2011–12, 2012–13 and 2013–14 school years, all Pennsylvania public school districts received the same level of funding for special education that they received in 2010–11. This level funding is provided regardless of changes in the number of pupils who need special education services and regardless of the level of services the respective students required.[154][155] For the 2014–2015 school year, LDSD received an increase to $2,130,595 from the Commonwealth for special education funding, even though the number of pupils served has declined.[156] Additionally, the state provides supplemental funding for extraordinarily impacted students. The district must apply for this added funding.

Gifted education

The district administration reported that 107 or 2.69% of its students were gifted in 2009. The highest percentage of gifted students reported among all 500 school districts and 100 public charter schools in Pennsylvania was North Allegheny School District with 15.5% of its students identified as gifted.[157] 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.[158][159]

While Lower Dauphin does offer Gifted Education at all levels, it is frequently requested that parents sign a Notice of Recommended Assignment, or NORA, which is written by the district to recommend that the student receive no further individual education. This request has been frequently made when the student makes the transition from middle school to high school.[160]

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.[161]

In 2013, the average teacher salary in Lower Dauphin School District was $56,698 a year.[162] In 2011, the average teacher salary in Lower Dauphin School District was $55,676 a year, while the cost of the benefits teachers receive was $16,691 per employee, for a total annual average teacher compensation of $72,367.69.[163] Lower Dauphin School District teacher and administrator retirement benefits are equal to at least 2.00% x Final Average Salary x Total Credited Service. (Some teachers benefits utilize a 2.50% benefit factor.)[164] After 40 years of service, Pennsylvania public school teachers and administrators can retire with 100% of the average salary of their final 3 years of employment. According to a study conducted at the American Enterprise Institute, in 2011, public school teachers’ total compensation is roughly 50 percent higher than they would likely receive in the private sector. The study found that the most generous benefits that teachers receive are not accounted for in many studies of compensation including: pension, retiree health benefits and job security.[165] In 2014–15, Pennsylvania public school district mandated teacher pension contribution rose to 21.40% of employee salaries and in 2015–16 it rose again to 25.84% of total salaries.[166] In 2014–15, the state mandated district contribution to the teacher pension fund rose to 21.40% of employee salaries and in 2015–16 it rose again to 25.84% of total district salaries.[167]

In 2009, Lower Dauphin School District reported employing 406 teachers and administrators, with a median salary or $55,507 and a top salary of $130,410.[168] The school year is 190 days for new teachers otherwise 189 days. Librarians and guidance counselors receive additional pay for summer time work on a daily rate. Teachers work a 7.5-hour day with a 30-minute duty-free lunch. Extra required work is paid at $30 per hour. Additionally, Lower Dauphin School District teachers receive: a defined benefit pension, health insurance (fully paid by District), dental insurance, vision insurance, liability insurance for teachers, life insurance, professional development reimbursement, 3 paid personal days, 10 paid sick days (which accumulate), Disability leave at 1/2 pay per day, 5 bereavement days and other benefits. The Teachers' union receives 10 days of paid leave to attend union functions outside of the district. Teachers may take leave for professional development with one half their salary. Teacher retirees and their spouse receive health insurance until they qualify for Medicare 100% at the district's cost.[169]

In 2007, Lower Dauphin School District employed 280 teachers. The average teacher salary in the district was $52,152 for 180 days worked.[170] 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.[171]

Administration costs Lower Dauphin School District administrative costs per pupil in 2008 was $750.69 per pupil. The lowest administrative cost per pupil in Pennsylvania was $398 per pupil.[172] The Pennsylvania School Boards Association keeps 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.[173] In November 2009, the school board extended the contract of Superintendent Sherri L. Smith for another five years. Smith will receive a $126,000 salary starting in the 2008–09 school year and a 3.5 percent increase each of the next four years. She will also continue to receive an extensive benefits package.[174][175]

Reserves In 2012, the Administration reported having over $12.8 million in reserves.[176] In 2008, Lower Dauphin School District reported an unreserved designated fund balance of $1,800,000 and an unreserved-undesignated fund balance of $5,732,868.[177] In 2010, Lower Dauphin School District Administration reported an increase to $7,070,308 in the unreserved-undesignated fund balance and $4,800,000 in its unreserved designated fund. Pennsylvania 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.[178]

Audits Pennsylvania Auditor General has conducted several audits of the Lower Dauphin School district. In January 2012, an audit found that Lower Dauphin School District had taken appropriate corrective action in implementing our recommendations pertaining to a certification deficiencies.[179] In 2005 there were multiple findings.[180] In 2010, the certification issue was cited again. The Bureau of School Leadership and Teacher Quality (BSLTQ) issued a final review on July 21, 2009, upholding the deficiency. The resulting subsidy forfeiture was $2,954.[181]

Per-pupil spending In 2008, the Lower Dauphin School District per-pupil spending was $11,584. This ranked 330th in the commonwealth.[182] In 2010, per-pupil spending had risen to $13,576.71[183] Among the states, Pennsylvania's total per pupil revenue (including all sources) ranked 11th at $15,023 per student, in 2008–09.[184] In 2007, the Pennsylvania per pupil total expenditures was $12,759.[185]

Tax exemption In March 2012, Lower Dauphin School Board voted (8–1) to grant a six-year tax abatement for the redevelopment of the six-acre Verdelli Farms property on East Second Street in Hummelstown. The developer will not be required to pay any property taxes for six years.[186]

Lower Dauphin School District levies the following taxes: a property tax, a local earned income tax – 0.5%, Occupational Assessment Tax $250 a year and a real estate transfer tax – 0.5%. Pennsylvania exempts pension and social security income from state income tax and local earned income tax. Grants can provide an opportunity to supplement school funding without raising local taxes. Interest earnings on reserve 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.[187] The average Pennsylvania public school teacher pension in 2011 exceeded $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.[188]

State basic education funding

According to a report from Representative Todd Stephens office, Lower Dauphin School District receives 32.3% of its annual revenue from the state.[189]

For the 2015–16 school year, Governor Tom Wolf released a partial Basic Education Funding of $4,548,102 to Lower Dauphin School District, in January 2016.[190] This was part of $10.3 billion in school funding withheld from the public schools, by the Governor since the summer of 2015. The Wolf Administration distribution allocated a total of $9,250,857 in BEF for 2015–16 school year.[191] The dispersement did not follow the new Basic Education Fair Funding formula which had been established by the Pennsylvania General Assembly in June 2015.[192][193][194] The district will also receive another $344,360 in state Ready to Learn grant.

For the 2014–15 school year, Lower Dauphin School District received $9,162,532 in State Basic Education funding. The district also received $344,360 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.[195] The Education budget also included 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.[196]

For the 2013–14 school year, Lower Dauphin School District received a 2.1% increase or $9,161,946 in Pennsylvania Basic Education Funding. This is $189,085 more than its 2012–13 state funding to the district. Additionally, Lower Dauphin School District will receive $164,878 in Accountability Block Grant funding to focus on academic achievement and level funding for special education services. Among Dauphin County's public school districts, Derry Township School District received the highest percentage increase at 5.4%. 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 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.[197] The state funded the PSERS (Pennsylvania school employee pension fund) with $1,017,000,000 and Social Security payments for school employees of $495 million.[198]

For the 2012–13 school year, the Lower Dauphin School District received $8,972,861 in state Basic Education Funding.[199] The Governor's Executive Budget for 2012–2013 includes $9.34 billion for kindergarten through 12th grade public education, including $5.4 billion in basic education funding, which is an increase of $49 million over the 2011–12 budget. The state also provides $100 million for the Accountability Block grant. The state will also provide $544.4 million for School Employees’ Social Security and $856 million for School Employees’ Retirement fund called PSERS.[200] This amount is a $21,823,000 increase (0.34%) over the 2011–2012 appropriations for Basic Education Funding, School Employees' Social Security, Pupil Transportation, Nonpublic and Charter School Pupil Transportation. Since taking office, Corbett's first two budgets have restored more than $918 million in support of public schools, compensating for the $1 billion in federal stimulus dollars lost at the end of the 2010–11 school year.

For the 2011–12 school year, Lower Dauphin School District received $8,970,099 in state Basic Education Funding.[201][202] Additionally, the district received $164,878 in Accountability Block Grant funding. The enacted Pennsylvania State Education Budget included $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.[203] 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.[204] In 2010, the district reported that 692 students received free or reduced-price lunches, due to the family meeting the federal poverty level.[205]

For the 2010–11 budget year, Lower Dauphin School District received a 5.58% increase in state basic education funding for a total of $9,903,093. In Dauphin County, the highest increase went to Susquehanna Township School District which received a 15.89% increase in state basic education funding. One hundred fifty school districts in Pennsylvania received a 2% base increase for budget year 2010–11. The highest increase in the state was given to Kennett Consolidated School District of Chester County which was given a 23.65% increase in state funding.[206] The state's hold harmless policy, regarding state basic education funding, continued where a district received at least the same amount as the year before, even where enrollment had significantly declined. The amount of increase each school district receives was set by Governor Edward G. 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 the Governor's policy to fund some districts at a far greater rate than others.

In the 2009–2010 budget year, the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania provided a 4.85% increase in Basic Education Funding for a total of $9,379,533 to the Lower Dauphin School District. The district also received supplemental funding for: Title I (federal funding for low-income students), for district size, a poverty supplement from the Commonwealth and more. Three school districts in Dauphin County received an increase in excess of 5%. In Dauphin County, the highest 2009 state funding increase was 10.66% for Susquehanna Township School District. Muhlenberg School District in Berks County received the highest increase in the commonwealth at 22.31%.[207] The amount of increase each school district receives is determined by then Governor Edward G. Rendell and the Secretary of Education Gerald Zahorchak through the allocation set in the state budget proposal made in February each year.[208]

The state Basic Education Funding to the Lower Dauphin School District in 2008–09 was $8,946,077.37. According to the Pennsylvania Department of Education, 588 students qualified for free or reduced-price lunch due to low family income in 2008.[209]

All Pennsylvania school districts also receive additional funding from the state through several other funding allocations, including Reimbursement of Charter School Expenditures; Special Education Funding; Secondary Career & Technical Education Subsidy; PA Accountability Grants; Ready to LEarn grants and low achieving schools were eligible for Educational Assistance Program Funding. Plus all Pennsylvania school districts receive federal dollars for various programs including: Special Education funding and Title I funding for children from low-income families. In 2010, Pennsylvania spent over $24 billion for public education – local, state and federal dollars combined.[210]

Accountability Block Grant

The state provides supplemental funding in the form of accountability block grants. The use of these funds is strictly focused on specific state approved student educational achievement uses. Lower Dauphin School District uses its $447,521 to fund: increasing instructional time, to pay teachers to develop new curriculum, to lower class size for K-3rd grades and to provide Professional Development to teachers. These annual funds are in addition to the state's basic education funding.[211] Schools Districts apply each year for Accountability Block Grants.[212] In 2009–10 the state provided $271.4 million in Accountability Block grants.[213]

Ready to Learn grant

Beginning in the 2014–2015 budget, the State funded a new Ready to Learn Grant for public schools. A total of $100 million is allocated through a formula to districts based on the number of students, level of poverty of community as calculated by its market value/personal income aid ratio (MV/PI AR) and the number of English language learners. Ready to Learn Block Grant funds may be used by the districts for: school safety; Ready by 3 early childhood intervention programs; individualized learning programs; and science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) programs.[214] Lower Dauphin School District received $344,360 in Ready to Learn Grant dollars in 2014–15 and $385,216 for 2015–16.[215]

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, Math) and paid for teacher training to optimize the computers use. The program was funded from 2006 to 2009. Lower Dauphin School District received $168,763 for funding in 2006–07. In 2007–08 the district received $300,000. For the 2008–09, school year the district received $67,347 for a total of $536,110. Of the 501 public school districts in Pennsylvania, 447 of them received Classrooms for the Future grant awards.[216]

Hybrid Learning grants

Lower Dauphin High School participated in the pilot year of the state's Hybrid learning initiative.[217] Hybrid learning uses three learning models to increase student achievement: instruction from the teacher, group activities, and self-instruction through digital content. According to state testing results, among the pilot schools, 88 percent achieved higher academic performance in hybrid classes compared to traditional classes in the same district or statewide benchmarks, 75 percent reported better academic achievement, and all of them met or exceeded academic growth.[218] In 2013–14, the state awarded $633,000 in federal Title 2A funds to accelerate teacher training in the implementation of hybrid learning programs in 50 school buildings in 34 school entities. In 2012, $1.1 million was awarded to 15 districts to launch the first hybrid pilot schools in the state that included more than 1,900 students and 48 teachers.[219]

Environmental Education Grant

The Environmental Education Grant Program was established by the Environmental Education Act of 1993, which mandates that 5 percent of all pollution fines and penalties collected annually by the Department of Environmental Protection be set aside for environmental education. In 2010, Low Dauphin School District was awarded $3,000 to enhance an on-site rain garden by installing rain barrels and coordinating a composting program.[220]

Education Assistance Grant

The state's EAP funding provides for the continuing support of tutoring services and other programs to address the academic needs of eligible students. Funds are available to eligible school districts and full-time career and technology centers (CTC) in which one or more schools have failed to meet at least one academic performance target, as provided for in Section 1512-C of the Pennsylvania Public School Code. In 2010–11, Lower Dauphin School District did not participate. Among public school districts in Dauphin County, the Halifax Area School District received $25,743.[221]

Other grants

Lower Dauphin School District did not participate in: PA Science Its Elementary grants (discontinued effective with 2009–10 budget by Governor Rendell), 2012 Striving Readers Comprehensive Literacy Grant, nor the federal 21st Century Learning grants.

Federal funding

The Lower Dauphin School District received an extra $2,199,655 in ARRA – Federal Stimulus money to be used in specific programs like special education and meeting the academic needs of low-income students.[222] The funding was limited to the 2009–10 and 2010–2011 school years.[223] Due to the temporary nature of the funding, schools were repeatedly advised to use the funds for one-time expenditures like acquiring equipment, making repairs to buildings, training teachers to provide more effective instruction or purchasing books and software.

Race to the Top grant

School district officials did not apply for the Race to the Top federal grant which would have brought the district over one million additional federal dollars for improving student academic achievement.[224] 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.[225] Pennsylvania was not approved for a grant. The failure of districts to agree to participate was cited as one reason that Pennsylvania was not approved.[226]

Title II grants

The Federal government provides annual grants to schools to be used to improve the quality of teacher instructions to pupils. The goal is provide each child in public schools with "Highly Quality" teachers and principals as defined by the state.[227] The funds are sent to the state Department of Education which distributes them to each school district and charter school.[228] Beginning in 2002, the federal funding committed to Title II was $3,175,000,000.

Public school district administrations must apply to the state annually for the Title II funds. In 2012–13, Lower Dauphin School District received $90,460 in federal Title II funding.[229] In 2014–15, Lower Dauphin School District applied for and received $82,896.[230]

English language learners grant

The Federal government provides annual grants to schools to assist in educating immigrant children and children who are identified as limited English proficient.[231] Upon registering for school a language survey is done for all new enrollment pupils, typically in kindergarten or preschool. They identify the primary language spoken at home. This data is collected and submitted to the Pennsylvania Department of Education, which in turn notifies the federal government.[232]

In 2012–13, Lower Dauphin School District received $8,419 in Title III funding for English language learners.[233] For 2014–15, Lower Dauphin School District received $15,113 in Title III funding.[234]

Common Cents state initiative

The Lower Dauphin 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.[235] After the review of the information, the district was not required to implement the recommended cost savings changes.

Real estate taxes

Property tax rates in 2015–16 were set by the Lower Dauphin School Board at 18.4200 mills.[236] 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. On the local level, Pennsylvania 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.[237] in 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. According to Pennsylvania tax policy, unlike other states, natural gas and oil pipelines are exempted from property taxes.[238] 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. In 2008, the total amount of property tax collected by Pennsylvania public school districts collected statewide declined for the first time since 1980.[239]

2014–15 – 18.4200 mills[240] 2013–14 – 18.4200 mills[241] 2012–13 – 18.4200 mills[242] 2011–12 – 18.4200 mills[243] 2010–11 – 18.1000 mills.[244] 2009–10 – 18.1000 mills.[245]

2008–09 – 18.1000 mills.[246] 2007–08 – 18.1000 mills.[247] 2006–07 – 17.8500 mills.[248] 2005–06 – 17.5000 mills.[249]

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 1999–2000 to $10,438,463,356 in 2008–09.[250] The average yearly property tax paid by Dauphin County residents amounts to about 3.48% of their yearly income. Dauphin County is ranked 382nd of the 3143 United States counties for property taxes as a percentage of median income.[251]

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 2011–2012 school year is 1.4 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.[252]

The School District Adjusted Index for the Lower Dauphin School District 2006–2007 through 2010–2011.[253]

2006–07 – 4.9%, Base 3.9% 2007–08 – 4.3%, Base 3.4% 2008–09 – 5.5%, Base 4.4% 2009–10 – 5.2%, Base 4.1% 2010–11 – 3.7%, Base 2.9% 2011–12 – 1.8%, Base 1.4%

2012–13 – 2.1%, Base 1.7% 2013–14 – 2.0%, Base 1.7%[254] 2014–15 – 2.5%, Base 2.1%[255] 2015–16 – 2.3%, Base 1.9%[256] 2016–17 – 2.9%, Base 2.4%[257][258]

For the 2015–16 budget year, Lower Dauphin School Board did not apply for any exceptions to exceed their Act 1 Index limit. For the school budget 2015–16, 310 Pennsylvania public school districts adopted a resolution certifying that tax rates would not be increased above its Act 1 Index limit. Another 187 school districts adopted a preliminary budget leaving open the option of exceeding the Index limit. Regarding the pension costs exception, 172 school districts received approval to exceed the Index limit in full, while others received a partial approval of their request. For special education costs, 119 districts received approval to exceed their tax limit. No Pennsylvania public school districts received an approval for the grandfathered construction debts exception.[259]

For the 2014–15 budget year, Lower Dauphin School Board did not apply for exceptions to exceed their Act 1 Index limit. In 2014–15, all Pennsylvania school districts were required to make a 21.4% of payroll payment to the teacher's pension fund (PSERS).[260] For the school budget 2014–15, 316 Pennsylvania public school districts adopted a resolution certifying that tax rates would not be increased above its Act 1 Index limit. Another 181 school districts adopted a preliminary budget leaving open the option of exceeding the Index limit. Districts may apply for multiple exceptions each year. For the pension costs exception, 163 school districts received approval to exceed the Index in full, while others received a partial approval of their request. For special education costs, 104 districts received approval to exceed their tax limit. Seven Pennsylvania public school districts received an approval for the grandfathered construction debts exception.[261]

For the 2013–14 budget year, Lower Dauphin School Board did not apply for exceptions to exceed their Act 1 Index limit. 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.[262]

For the 2012–13 budget year, Lower Dauphin 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. 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.[263]

For the 2011–12 school year, the Lower Dauphin School Board did not apply for an exception to exceed the Act 1 Index. Each year, the 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 published annually, by the Pennsylvania Department of Education.[264]

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.[265]

In 2010–11 and 2009–10, the Lower Dauphin School Board did not apply for exceptions to exceed the Act 1 index for the budgets in either year.[266][267]

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.[265]

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.[268]

Property tax relief

In 2013, Area School District 6,825 approved homestead properties received $197 each.[269] The decline in amount was related to more residents applying for tax relief and a decline in table games tax revenues. The amount received by the district must be divided equally among all approved residences.[270]

In 2009, the Homestead/Farmstead Property Tax Relief from gambling for the Lower Dauphin School District was $211 per approved permanent primary residence. In the district, 6,380 property owners applied for the tax relief. In Dauphin County, the highest amount of tax relief in 2009, went to Harrisburg School District at $446.[271] The tax 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 Dauphin County, 68.71% of eligible property owners applied for property tax relief in 2009.[272] Pennsylvania awarded the highest property tax relief to residents of the Chester-Upland School District in Delaware County at $632 per homestead and farmstead in 2010.[273]

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, consequently individuals whose income is 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.[274]

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%).[275]

Wellness policy

Lower Dauphin School Board established a district wellness policy in 2006 – Policy 246.[276] The policy deals with nutritious meals served at school, the control of access to some foods and beverages during school hours, age appropriate nutrition education for all students, and physical education for students K-12. The policy is in response to state mandates and federal legislation (P.L. 108 – 265). The law dictates that each school district participating in a program authorized by the Richard B. Russell National School Lunch Act (42 U.S.C. 1751 et seq) or the Child Nutrition Act of 1966 (42 U.S.C. 1771 et seq) "shall establish a local school wellness policy by School Year 2006."

The legislation placed the responsibility of developing a wellness policy at the local level so the individual needs of each district can be addressed. According to the requirements for the Local Wellness Policy, school districts must set goals for nutrition education, physical activity, campus food provision, and other school-based activities designed to promote student wellness. Additionally, districts were required to involve a broad group of individuals in policy development and to have a plan for measuring policy implementation. Districts were offered a choice of levels of implementation for limiting or prohibiting low nutrition foods on the school campus. In final implementation these regulations prohibit some foods and beverages on the school campus.[277] The Pennsylvania Department of Education required the district to submit a copy of the policy for PDE approval.

For the 2010–11 school year, Lower Dauphin had 698 students who qualified for the district's free lunch and free breakfast programs.[278] The district offers both a free school breakfast and a free or reduced-price lunch to children in low-income families. All students attending the school can eat breakfast and lunch. Children from families with incomes at or below 130 percent of the federal poverty level are provided a breakfast and lunch at no cost to the family. Children from families with incomes between 130 and 185 percent of the federal poverty level can be charged no more than 30 cents per breakfast. A foster child whose care and placement is the responsibility of the State or who is placed by a court with a caretaker household is eligible for both a free breakfast and a free lunch. Runaway, homeless and Migrant Youth are also automatically eligible for free meals.[279] The meals are partially funded with federal dollars through the United States Department of Agriculture.[280] In 2013, the USDA issued new restrictions to foods in public schools. The rules apply to foods and beverages sold on all public school district campuses during the day. They limit vending machine snacks to a maximum of 200 calories per item. Additionally, all snack foods sold at school must meet competitive nutrient standards, meaning they must have fruits, vegetables, dairy or protein in them or contain at least 10 percent of the daily value of fiber, calcium, potassium, and Vitamin D.[281] To comply with the Healthy, Hunger-Free Kids Act of 2010 all US public school districts are required to raise the price of their school lunches to $2.60 regardless of the actual cost of providing the lunch.[282] The Healthy Hunger-Free Kids Act of 2010 mandates that districts raise their full pay lunch prices every year until the price of non-subsidized lunches equals the amount the federal government reimburses schools for free meals. That subsidy in 2013–2014 was $2.93.

In 2014, President Obama ordered a prohibition of advertisements for unhealthy foods on public school campuses during the school day.[283] The Food and Drug Administration requires that students take milk as their beverage at lunch. In accordance with this law, any student requesting water in place of milk with their lunch must present a written request, signed by a doctor, documenting the need for water instead of milk.[284][285]

Lower Dauphin School District provides health services as mandated by the Commonwealth and the federal government. Nurses are available in each building to conduct annual health screenings (data reported to the PDE and state Department of Health) and to dispense prescribed medications to students during the school day. Students can be excluded from school unless they comply with all the State Department of Health's extensive immunization mandates. School nurses monitor each pupil for this compliance.[286][287] Nurses also monitor each child's weight.[288]

Highmark Healthy High 5 grant

In 2011, Nye Elementary School in Lower Dauphin School District received funding through a Highmark Healthy High 5 grant. The school received $6,026 which was used to purchase Wii Fit ExerGames for integration into the PE curriculum for all students in grades K-5.[289] Beginning in 2006, Highmark Foundation engaged in a 5-year, $100 million program to promote lifelong healthy behaviors in children and adolescents through local nonprofits and schools.

Extracurriculars

The school district offers a wide variety of clubs, activities and an extensive and costly sports program.[290] Article XVI-C of the Public School Code requires the disclosure of interscholastic athletic opportunities for all public secondary school entities in Pennsylvania. All school entities with grades 7–12 are required to annually collect data concerning team and financial information for all male and female athletes beginning with the 2012–13 school year and submit the information to the Pennsylvania Department of Education. Beginning with the 2013–14 school year, all non-school (booster club and alumni) contributions and purchases must also be reported to PDE.[291] Eligibility to participate is determined by the school board in policy.[292][293]

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.[294][295][296]

According to PA Child Abuse Recognition and Reporting Act 126 of 2014, all volunteer coaches and all those who assist in student activities, must have criminal background checks. Like all school district employees, they must also attend an anti child abuse training once every three years.[297][298][299]

Sports

Coaches receive compensation as outlined in the teachers' union contract. When athletic competition exceeds the regular season, additional compensation is paid.[300]

According to PA Child Abuse Recognition and Reporting Act 126 of 2014, all volunteer coaches and all those who assist in student activities, must have criminal background checks. Like all school district employees, they must also attend an anti child abuse training once every three years.[297][298][299]

The district funds:

Boys Baseball – AAAA Basketball- AAAA Cross Country – Class AAA Football – AAAA Golf – AAA Indoor Track and Field – AAAA Lacrosse – AAAA Soccer – AAA Swimming and Diving – Class AAA Tennis – AAA Track and Field – AAA Volleyball – Class AAA Wrestling – AAA

Girls Basketball – AAAA Cheer – AAAA added 2014 Cross Country – AAA Field Hockey – AAA Golf – AAA added 2014 Indoor Track and Field – AAAA Lacrosse – AAAA Soccer (Fall) – AAA Softball – AAAA Swimming and Diving – AAA Girls' Tennis – AAA Track and Field – AAA Volleyball – AAA

Middle School Sports

Boys Basketball Cross Country Football Soccer Track and Field Wrestling

Girls Basketball Cross Country Field Hockey Softball Track and Field

According to PIAA directory July 2014 [301][302]

See also

• Lower Dauphin High School
• Hummelstown
• United States education

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External links

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