West Allegheny School District
Encyclopedia
The West Allegheny School District is a midsized, suburban public school district
which is located in the western corner of Allegheny County, approximately 16 miles (25.7 km) from downtown Pittsburgh. The district comprises Findlay
, North Fayette
, and Robinson
townships, and Oakdale
borough. Imperial
is the census-designated place
located within the district boundary. The district encompasses approximately 62 square miles (160.6 km²). According to the 2000 federal census data, it serves a resident population of 18,950. The district residents' per capita income
was $24,468, while the median family income was $57,886. According to West Allegheny School District officials, in school year 2007-08, the West Allegheny School District provided basic educational services to 3,273 pupils. It employed 245 teachers, 143 full-time and part-time support personnel, and 18 administrators. West Allegheny School District received more than $10.2 million in state funding in school year 2007-08. The West Allegheny School District is home of the Pittsburgh International Airport
terminal.
The district administration offices are located at 600 Donaldson Road, Oakdale, Pa., 15071.
The West Allegheny School District has three elementary schools located in Findlay and North Fayette, Pennsylvania. The elementary schools are: Donaldson Elementary School, Wilson Elementary School and McKee Elementary School. West Allegheny Middle School and West Allegheny Senior High School are located both on the main campus in Imperial, North Fayette township. West Allegheny was formed in 1949 by Charles Fazekus.
s for: math, reading, writing and 1 year of science. In 2008, the school district ranked 6th out of 105 western Pennsylvania districts and was 23rd out of 498 Pennsylvania school districts. In 2007 the district was ranked 34th out of 501 Pennsylvania school districts for student academic achievement.
Under the former calculation formula::
s on: reading, math, writing and one year of science. The SHS is home of the Schools TV channel West Allegheny TV, or WATV which is found on local listings channel 45. This channel includes West A Today News such as weather, school cancellations, district or school info(upcoming events, etc.).
The SHS publishes their school newspaper Indian Tribune, and a magazine called the Red Review. The SHS is also home to the districts newspaper called West A Today which puts the news channel into the newspaper. The MS also has their personal school TV show which performs the same as the SHS use. The SHS is also home to the WA RADIO, local radio channel 104.3 FM. The MS also publishes their own school newspaper and magazine called the Indian Today and the WAMS review.
11th Grade Math:
11th Grade Science:
College Remediation: According to a Pennsylvania Department of Education
study released in January 2009, 35% of the high school's graduates required remediation in mathematics and or reading before they were prepared to take college level courses in the Pennsylvania State System of Higher Education
or community colleges. Less than 66% of Pennsylvania high school graduates, who enroll in a four-year college in Pennsylvania, will earn a bachelor's degree within six years. Among Pennsylvania high school graduates pursuing an associate degree, only one in three graduate in three years. Per the Pennsylvania Department of Education, one in three recent high school graduates who attend Pennsylvania's public universities and community colleges takes at least one remedial course in math, reading or English.
program. This state program permits high school students to take courses, at local higher education institutions, to earn college credits. Students remain enrolled at their high school. The courses count towards high school graduation requirements and towards earning a college degree. The students continue to have full access to activities and programs at their high school including the graduation ceremonry. The college credits are offered at a deeply discounted rate. The state offers a small grant to assist students in costs for tuition, fees and books. Under the Pennsylvania Transfer and Articulation Agreement, many Pennsylvania colleges and universities accept these credits for students who transfer to their institutions.
For the 2009-10 funding year, the school district received a state grant of $9,309 for the program.
s in: reading, math writing and one year of science. (Includes schools in: Allegheny County
, Beaver County
, Butler County
, Fayette County
, Westmoreland County
, and Washington County
8th Grade Reading:
8th Grade Math:
8th Grade Science:
7th Grade Reading:
7th Grade Math:
6th Grade Reading:
6th Grade Math:
services.
In order to comply with state and federal laws, the 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. To identify students who may be eligible for special education, various screening activities are conducted on an ongoing basis. These screening activities include: review of group-based data (cumulative records, enrollment records, health records, report cards, ability and achievement test scores); hearing, vision, motor, and speech/language screening; and review by the Special Education administration. When screening results suggest that the student may be eligible, the District seeks parental consent to conduct a multidisciplinary evaluation. Parents who suspect their child is eligible may verbally request a multidisciplinary evaluation from a professional employee of the District or contact the Special Education Department.
In 2010, the state of Pennsylvania provided $1,026,815,000 for Special Education services. The funds were distributed to districts based on a state policy which estimates that 16% of the district's pupils are receiving 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.
West Allegheny School District received a $1,548,208 supplement for special education services in 2010.
For the 2011-12 school year, all Pennsylvania public school districts received the same level of funding for special education that they received in 2010. This level funding is provided regardless of changes in the number of pupils who need special education services and regardless of the level of services the respective students required.
In 2009, the district employed 265 teachers. The average teacher salary in the district was $59,146 for 191 days worked. The beginning salary was $40,920, while the highest salary was $134,427. Teachers work an 7 hour 40 minutes day, with one planning period and a paid 35 minute, duty free lunch included. Additionally, the teachers receive: a defined benefit pension
, health insurance
(employee ays $35 per month), dental insurance
, life insurance, professional development reimbursement, 3 paid personal days, 10 paid sick days which accumulate, 4 paid days bereavement leave and many other benefits. Early retirees may pay to continue their district health insurance benefits. The district offers an extensive retirement/longevity package which includes payment for unused sick days accumulated. The union receives 8 paid days to conduct union business each year. According to Rep. Glen Grell, a trustee of the Pennsylvania Public School Employees’ Retirement System Board of Trustees, a 40-year educator can retire with a pension equal to 100 percent of their final salary.
West Allegheny administrative costs per pupil was $915.65 in 2008. The district ranked 93 out of 501 Pennsylvania school districts in spending. The lowest administrative cost per pupil in Pennsylvania was $398 per pupil. In August 2011, the school board awarded 3.25% raises to administrators, and other employees. The annual salary of Superintendent John DiSanti increased from $143,445 to $148,107.
In 2008, per pupil spending at West Allegheny School District was $13,745 for each child. This ranked 121st among Pennsylvania's 500 school districts.
Reserves In 2008, the district reported a $3,847,539 in a unreserved-undesignated fund balance. The designated fund balance was repoted as $320,361.
In December 2010, the Pennsylvania Auditor General conducted a performance audit of the district. The findings were reported to the administration and the school board by state officials. It found that the West Allegheny School District employed an uncertified teacher for 2 years. The issue was reported to the state's Bureau of School Leadership and Teacher Quality.
The district is funded by a combination of a local earned income tax, a property tax, a real estate transfer tax 0.5%, coupled with substantial funding from the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania and the federal government. Grants can provide an opportunity to supplement school funding without raising local taxes. In the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, pension income and Social Security income are exempted from state personal income tax and local earned income tax, regardless the of income level.
which got a 49% increase in state funding for 2011-12. In 2009, the administration reported that 646 students received a free or reduced price lunch based on the federal poverty levels.
For the 2010-11 budget year, the West Allegheny School District was allotted a 2.00% increase in Basic Education Funding for a total of $5,631,451. The highest increase in Allegheny County was provided to South Fayette Township School District
which received a 11.32% increase. One hundred fifty Pennsylvania school districts received the base 2% increase. The highest increase in 2010-11 went to Kennett Consolidated School District
in Chester County
which received a 23.65% increase in state funding. The amount of increase each school district receives is set by the Governor and the Secretary of Education as a part of the state budget proposal given each February.
In the 2009-2010 budget year the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania provided a 4.02% increase in Basic Education funding for a total of $5,374,050. Four county school districts received increases of over 6% in Basic Education Funding in 2008-10. Chartiers Valley School District
received an 8.17% increase. In Pennsylvania, over 15 school districts received Basic Education Funding increases in excess of 10% in 2009. Muhlenberg School District
in Berks County received the highest with a 22.31% increase in funding. The state's Basic Education Funding to the West Allegheny School District in 2008-09 was $5,166,410.07. The amount of increase each school district receives is determined by the Governor and the Secretary of Education through the allocation made in the budget proposal made in February each year.
In 2008, the administration reported that 588 students received a free or reduced price lunch based on the federal poverty levels.
- Federal Stimulus money to be used in specific programs like special education and meeting the academic needs of low income students. This funding was for school years 2009-10 and 2010-11.
federal grant. When approved for the grant, the district will receive hundreds of thousands of additional federal dollars for improving student academic achievement. 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. Pennsylvania was not approved for the grant. The failure of districts to agree to participate was cited as one reason that Pennsylvania was not approved.
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. 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. Additionally, service related, disabled US military veterans may seek an exemption from paying property taxes. Pennsylvania school district revenues are dominated by two main sources: 1) Property tax collections, which account for the vast majority (between 75-85%) of local revenues; and 2) Act 511 tax collections, which are around 15% of revenues for school districts.
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.
The School District Adjusted Index for the West Allegheny School District 2006-2007 through 2011-2012.
For the 2011-12 school year the West Allegheny School Board did not apply for exceptions to exceed the Act 1 Index. Each year, the West Allegheny School Board has the option of adopting either 1) a resolution in January certifying they will not increase taxes above their index or 2) a preliminary budget in February. A school district adopting the resolution may not apply for referendum exceptions or ask voters for a tax increase above the inflation index. A specific timeline for these decisions is publisher each year by the Pennsylvania Department of Education.
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.
For 2009 and 2010, the West Allegheny School Board did not apply for any exceptions to exceed the Index limit. 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.
Additionally, the Pennsylvania Property Tax/Rent Rebate program is provided for low income Pennsylvanians aged 65 and older; widows and widowers aged 50 and older; and people with disabilities age 18 and older. The income limit is $35,000 for homeowners. The maximum rebate for both homeowners and renters is $650. Applicants can exclude one-half (1/2) of their Social Security income, so people who make substantially more than $35,000 may still qualify for a rebate. Individuals must apply annually for the rebate. This can be taken in addition to Homestead/Farmstead Property Tax Relief.
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%).
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.
The school colors are scarlet and gray, with the mascot being a Native American Indian depicted in full head-dress. The school's football team has gained notability by reaching play-off status during past years, and play divisional play-off games in Three Rivers Stadium
. Through the 60's and 70's West Allegheny shared an intense rivalry with Fort Cherry School District
.
WPIAL AAA Champions:
School district
School districts are a form of special-purpose district which serves to operate the local public primary and secondary schools.-United States:...
which is located in the western corner of Allegheny County, approximately 16 miles (25.7 km) from downtown Pittsburgh. The district comprises Findlay
Findlay Township, Pennsylvania
Findlay Township is a township located west of Pittsburgh in Allegheny County, Pennsylvania, United States. The population was 5,060 at the 2010 census.The township is the home of Pittsburgh International Airport.-Geography:...
, North Fayette
North Fayette Township, Pennsylvania
North Fayette Township is a township in Allegheny County, Pennsylvania, United States. The population was 13,934 at the 2010 census.-Geography:...
, and Robinson
Robinson Township, Pennsylvania
Robinson Township is a township in Allegheny County, Pennsylvania, United States approximately west of Pittsburgh. The population was 13,354 at the 2010 census.-Geography:Robinson Township is located at ....
townships, and Oakdale
Oakdale, Pennsylvania
Oakdale is a borough in Allegheny County, Pennsylvania, United States. The population was 1,459 at the 2010 census. Its zip code is 15071.Oakdale is affectionately known as "America's Home Town"...
borough. Imperial
Imperial-Enlow, Pennsylvania
Imperial-Enlow was a census-designated place in Allegheny County, Pennsylvania, United States, for the 2000 census. The population at the time was 3,514...
is the census-designated place
Census-designated place
A census-designated place is a concentration of population identified by the United States Census Bureau for statistical purposes. CDPs are delineated for each decennial census as the statistical counterparts of incorporated places such as cities, towns and villages...
located within the district boundary. The district encompasses approximately 62 square miles (160.6 km²). According to the 2000 federal census data, it serves a resident population of 18,950. The district residents' per capita income
Per capita income
Per capita income or income per person is a measure of mean income within an economic aggregate, such as a country or city. It is calculated by taking a measure of all sources of income in the aggregate and dividing it by the total population...
was $24,468, while the median family income was $57,886. According to West Allegheny School District officials, in school year 2007-08, the West Allegheny School District provided basic educational services to 3,273 pupils. It employed 245 teachers, 143 full-time and part-time support personnel, and 18 administrators. West Allegheny School District received more than $10.2 million in state funding in school year 2007-08. The West Allegheny School District is home of the Pittsburgh International Airport
Pittsburgh International Airport
Pittsburgh International Airport , formerly Greater Pittsburgh Airport, Greater Pittsburgh International Airport and commonly referred to as Pittsburgh International, is a joint civil–military international airport located in the Pittsburgh suburb of Findlay Township, approximately west of...
terminal.
The district administration offices are located at 600 Donaldson Road, Oakdale, Pa., 15071.
The West Allegheny School District has three elementary schools located in Findlay and North Fayette, Pennsylvania. The elementary schools are: Donaldson Elementary School, Wilson Elementary School and McKee Elementary School. West Allegheny Middle School and West Allegheny Senior High School are located both on the main campus in Imperial, North Fayette township. West Allegheny was formed in 1949 by Charles Fazekus.
Academic achievement
The West Allegheny School District was ranked 6th out of 105 western Pennsylvania school districts in 2009 by the Pittsburgh Business Times. The ranking was based on three years of student academic performance on the PSSAPennsylvania System of School Assessment
The Pennsylvania System of School Assessment is a standardized test administered to public schools in the state of Pennsylvania. Students in grades 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, and 11 are assessed in reading skills and mathematics. Students in grades 5, 8, and 11 are assessed in writing skills...
s for: math, reading, writing and 1 year of science. In 2008, the school district ranked 6th out of 105 western Pennsylvania districts and was 23rd out of 498 Pennsylvania school districts. In 2007 the district was ranked 34th out of 501 Pennsylvania school districts for student academic achievement.
Graduation Rate
In 2010, the Pennsylvania Department of Education issued a new, 4 year cohort graduation rate. West Allegheny Senior High School's rate was 92% for 2010.Under the former calculation formula::
- 2010 - 95%
- 2009 - 97%
- 2008 - 97%
- 2007 - 98%
Senior High school
West Allegheny Senior High School's 11th grade was ranked 13th out of 123 western Pennsylvania high schools, by the Pittsburgh Business Times, based on three years of results in PSSAPennsylvania System of School Assessment
The Pennsylvania System of School Assessment is a standardized test administered to public schools in the state of Pennsylvania. Students in grades 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, and 11 are assessed in reading skills and mathematics. Students in grades 5, 8, and 11 are assessed in writing skills...
s on: reading, math, writing and one year of science. The SHS is home of the Schools TV channel West Allegheny TV, or WATV which is found on local listings channel 45. This channel includes West A Today News such as weather, school cancellations, district or school info(upcoming events, etc.).
The SHS publishes their school newspaper Indian Tribune, and a magazine called the Red Review. The SHS is also home to the districts newspaper called West A Today which puts the news channel into the newspaper. The MS also has their personal school TV show which performs the same as the SHS use. The SHS is also home to the WA RADIO, local radio channel 104.3 FM. The MS also publishes their own school newspaper and magazine called the Indian Today and the WAMS review.
PSSA Results
11th Grade Reading- 2010 - 76% on grade level. In Pennsylvania, 66% of 11th graders are on grade level.
- 2009 - 79%, State - 65%
- 2008 - 73%, State - 64%
11th Grade Math:
- 2010 - 71% on grade level. In Pennsylvania, 59% of 11th graders are on grade level.
- 2009 - 78%, State - 55%
- 2008 - 58%, State - 56%
11th Grade Science:
- 2010 - 51% on grade level. State - 39% of 11th graders were on grade level.
- 2009 - 68%, State - 39%
- 2008 - 38%, State - 39%
College Remediation: According to a Pennsylvania Department of Education
Pennsylvania Department of Education
The Pennsylvania Department of Education is the executive department of the state charged with K-12 and adult educational budgeting, management and guidelines. As the state education agency, its activities are directed by Pennsylvania's Secretary of Education, Gerald L. Zahorchak...
study released in January 2009, 35% of the high school's graduates required remediation in mathematics and or reading before they were prepared to take college level courses in the Pennsylvania State System of Higher Education
Pennsylvania State System of Higher Education
The Pennsylvania State System of Higher Education is the largest provider of higher education in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania and a large public university system in the United States. It is the tenth-largest university system in the United States and 43rd largest in the world...
or community colleges. Less than 66% of Pennsylvania high school graduates, who enroll in a four-year college in Pennsylvania, will earn a bachelor's degree within six years. Among Pennsylvania high school graduates pursuing an associate degree, only one in three graduate in three years. Per the Pennsylvania Department of Education, one in three recent high school graduates who attend Pennsylvania's public universities and community colleges takes at least one remedial course in math, reading or English.
Dual enrollment
The high school offers a Dual EnrollmentDual enrollment
In education, dual enrollment involved students being enrolled in two separate, academically related institutions. It may also refer to any individual who is participating in two related programs, but such a general form of usage is uncommon....
program. This state program permits high school students to take courses, at local higher education institutions, to earn college credits. Students remain enrolled at their high school. The courses count towards high school graduation requirements and towards earning a college degree. The students continue to have full access to activities and programs at their high school including the graduation ceremonry. The college credits are offered at a deeply discounted rate. The state offers a small grant to assist students in costs for tuition, fees and books. Under the Pennsylvania Transfer and Articulation Agreement, many Pennsylvania colleges and universities accept these credits for students who transfer to their institutions.
For the 2009-10 funding year, the school district received a state grant of $9,309 for the program.
Middle school
In 2009, the 8th grade was ranked 7th out of 141 western Pennsylvania middle schools based on three years of student academic achievement in PSSAPennsylvania System of School Assessment
The Pennsylvania System of School Assessment is a standardized test administered to public schools in the state of Pennsylvania. Students in grades 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, and 11 are assessed in reading skills and mathematics. Students in grades 5, 8, and 11 are assessed in writing skills...
s in: reading, math writing and one year of science. (Includes schools in: Allegheny County
Allegheny County, Pennsylvania
Allegheny County is a county in the southwestern part of the U.S. state of Pennsylvania. As of the 2010 census, the population was 1,223,348; making it the second most populous county in Pennsylvania, following Philadelphia County. The county seat is Pittsburgh...
, Beaver County
Beaver County, Pennsylvania
-Demographics:As of the census of 2000, there were 181,412 people, 72,576 households, and 50,512 families residing in the county. The population density was 418 people per square mile . There were 77,765 housing units at an average density of 179 per square mile...
, Butler County
Butler County, Pennsylvania
-Demographics:As of the census of 2000, there were 174,083 people, 65,862 households, and 46,827 families residing in the county. The population density was 221 people per square mile . There were 69,868 housing units at an average density of 89 per square mile...
, Fayette County
Fayette County, Pennsylvania
Fayette County is a county located in the U.S. state of Pennsylvania. As of the2010 census, the population was 136,606. The county is part of the Pittsburgh Metropolitan Statistical Area....
, Westmoreland County
Westmoreland County, Pennsylvania
-Demographics:As of the census of 2000, there were 369,993 people, 149,813 households, and 104,569 families residing in the county. The population density was 361 people per square mile . There were 161,058 housing units at an average density of 157 per square mile...
, and Washington County
Washington County, Pennsylvania
-Government and politics:As of November 2008, there are 152,534 registered voters in Washington County .* Democratic: 89,027 * Republican: 49,025 * Other Parties: 14,482...
8th Grade Reading:
- 2010 - 87% on grade level. State - 82% of 8th graders were on grade level.
- 2009 - 90%, State - 80.9%
- 2008 - 82%, State - 78%
8th Grade Math:
- 2010 - 79% on grade level. State - 75% of 8th graders were on grade level.
- 2009 - 80%, State - 71%
- 2008 - 65%, State - 70%
8th Grade Science:
- 2010 - 72% on grade level. State - 57% of 8th graders were on grade level.
- 2009 - 63%, State - 55%
- 2008 - 61%, State - 50%
7th Grade Reading:
- 2010 - 87% on grade level. State - 73% of 7th graders were on grade level.
- 2009 - 82%, State - 71%
- 2008 - 81%, State - 70%
7th Grade Math:
- 2010 - 89% on grade level. State - 78% of 7th graders were on grade level
- 2009 - 86%, State - 75%
- 2008 - 84%, State - 70%
6th Grade Reading:
- 2010 - 81% on grade level (8% below basic). In Pennsylvania, 68% of 6th graders are on grade level.
- 2009 - 83% (3% below basic), State - 67%
- 2008 - 78% (5% below basic), State - 67%
6th Grade Math:
- 2010 - 86% on grade level (5% below basic). In Pennsylvania, 78% of 6th graders are on grade level.
- 2009 - 81% (4% below basic), State - 75%
- 2008 - 67% (16% below basic), State - 72%
Special Education
In December 2009, the district administration reported that 488 pupils or 14.9% of the district's pupils received Special EducationSpecial education
Special education is the education of students with special needs in a way that addresses the students' individual differences and needs. Ideally, this process involves the individually planned and systematically monitored arrangement of teaching procedures, adapted equipment and materials,...
services.
In order to comply with state and federal laws, the 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. To identify students who may be eligible for special education, various screening activities are conducted on an ongoing basis. These screening activities include: review of group-based data (cumulative records, enrollment records, health records, report cards, ability and achievement test scores); hearing, vision, motor, and speech/language screening; and review by the Special Education administration. When screening results suggest that the student may be eligible, the District seeks parental consent to conduct a multidisciplinary evaluation. Parents who suspect their child is eligible may verbally request a multidisciplinary evaluation from a professional employee of the District or contact the Special Education Department.
In 2010, the state of Pennsylvania provided $1,026,815,000 for Special Education services. The funds were distributed to districts based on a state policy which estimates that 16% of the district's pupils are receiving 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.
West Allegheny School District received a $1,548,208 supplement for special education services in 2010.
For the 2011-12 school year, all Pennsylvania public school districts received the same level of funding for special education that they received in 2010. This level funding is provided regardless of changes in the number of pupils who need special education services and regardless of the level of services the respective students required.
Gifted Education
The District Administration reported that 105 or 3.20% of its students were gifted in 2009. 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.Budget
In 2007, the district employed 162 teachers. The average teacher salary in the district was $54,609 for 180 days worked. In Pennsylvania, the average salary of the 124,100 public school teachers was $54,457. 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. Additionally, the teachers receive a defined benefit pension, health insurance, professional development reimbursement, paid personal days, paid sick days, a retirement bonus and other benefits.In 2009, the district employed 265 teachers. The average teacher salary in the district was $59,146 for 191 days worked. The beginning salary was $40,920, while the highest salary was $134,427. Teachers work an 7 hour 40 minutes day, with one planning period and a paid 35 minute, duty free lunch included. Additionally, the teachers receive: a defined benefit pension
Pension
In general, a pension is an arrangement to provide people with an income when they are no longer earning a regular income from employment. Pensions should not be confused with severance pay; the former is paid in regular installments, while the latter is paid in one lump sum.The terms retirement...
, health insurance
Health insurance
Health insurance is insurance against the risk of incurring medical expenses among individuals. By estimating the overall risk of health care expenses among a targeted group, an insurer can develop a routine finance structure, such as a monthly premium or payroll tax, to ensure that money is...
(employee ays $35 per month), dental insurance
Dental insurance
Dental insurance is a type of health insurance designed to pay a portion of the costs associated with dental care. There are several different types of individual, family, or group dental insurance plans grouped into three primary categories: Indemnity which allows you to see any dentist you want...
, life insurance, professional development reimbursement, 3 paid personal days, 10 paid sick days which accumulate, 4 paid days bereavement leave and many other benefits. Early retirees may pay to continue their district health insurance benefits. The district offers an extensive retirement/longevity package which includes payment for unused sick days accumulated. The union receives 8 paid days to conduct union business each year. According to Rep. Glen Grell, a trustee of the Pennsylvania Public School Employees’ Retirement System Board of Trustees, a 40-year educator can retire with a pension equal to 100 percent of their final salary.
West Allegheny administrative costs per pupil was $915.65 in 2008. The district ranked 93 out of 501 Pennsylvania school districts in spending. The lowest administrative cost per pupil in Pennsylvania was $398 per pupil. In August 2011, the school board awarded 3.25% raises to administrators, and other employees. The annual salary of Superintendent John DiSanti increased from $143,445 to $148,107.
In 2008, per pupil spending at West Allegheny School District was $13,745 for each child. This ranked 121st among Pennsylvania's 500 school districts.
Reserves In 2008, the district reported a $3,847,539 in a unreserved-undesignated fund balance. The designated fund balance was repoted as $320,361.
In December 2010, the Pennsylvania Auditor General conducted a performance audit of the district. The findings were reported to the administration and the school board by state officials. It found that the West Allegheny School District employed an uncertified teacher for 2 years. The issue was reported to the state's Bureau of School Leadership and Teacher Quality.
The district is funded by a combination of a local earned income tax, a property tax, a real estate transfer tax 0.5%, coupled with substantial funding from the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania and the federal government. Grants can provide an opportunity to supplement school funding without raising local taxes. In the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, pension income and Social Security income are exempted from state personal income tax and local earned income tax, regardless the of income level.
State basic education funding
In 2011-12, the district will receive $5,166,410 in state Basic Education Funding. Additionally, the district will receive $99,879 in Accountability Block Grant funding. The enacted Pennsylvania state Education budget includes $5,354,629,000 for the 2011-2012 Basic Education Funding appropriation. This amount is a $233,290,000 increase (4.6%) over the enacted State appropriation for 2010-2011. The highest increase in state basic education funding was awarded to Duquesne City School DistrictDuquesne City School District
The is a tiny, suburban public school district in the state of Pennsylvania. It is located in the east hills of Allegheny County, and serves the City of Duquesne , a former mill town on the banks of the Monongahela River. Duquesne City School District encompasses approximately 2 square miles...
which got a 49% increase in state funding for 2011-12. In 2009, the administration reported that 646 students received a free or reduced price lunch based on the federal poverty levels.
For the 2010-11 budget year, the West Allegheny School District was allotted a 2.00% increase in Basic Education Funding for a total of $5,631,451. The highest increase in Allegheny County was provided to South Fayette Township School District
South Fayette Township School District
The South Fayette Township School District is a public school district serving the Pittsburgh suburb of South Fayette Township, Pennsylvania. The district features three schools: South Fayette High School , South Fayette Middle School , and South Fayette Elementary School .-Academic achievement and...
which received a 11.32% increase. One hundred fifty Pennsylvania school districts received the base 2% increase. The highest increase in 2010-11 went to Kennett Consolidated School District
Kennett Consolidated School District
The Kennett Consolidated School District,or KCSD for short, is a public school district serving portions of Chester County, Pennsylvania. It is centered on the borough of Kennett Square and also incorporates Kennett Township, New Garden Township, and the southern portion of East Marlborough Twp....
in Chester County
Chester County, Pennsylvania
-State parks:*French Creek State Park*Marsh Creek State Park*White Clay Creek Preserve-Demographics:As of the 2010 census, the county was 85.5% White, 6.1% Black or African American, 0.2% Native American or Alaskan Native, 3.9% Asian, 0.0% Native Hawaiian, 1.8% were two or more races, and 2.4% were...
which received a 23.65% increase in state funding. The amount of increase each school district receives is set by the Governor and the Secretary of Education as a part of the state budget proposal given each February.
In the 2009-2010 budget year the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania provided a 4.02% increase in Basic Education funding for a total of $5,374,050. Four county school districts received increases of over 6% in Basic Education Funding in 2008-10. Chartiers Valley School District
Chartiers Valley School District
-Schools:Chartiers Valley School District operates four schools. They are:*Chartiers Valley Primary school - serving approximately 750 students in kindergarten through 2nd grade....
received an 8.17% increase. In Pennsylvania, over 15 school districts received Basic Education Funding increases in excess of 10% in 2009. Muhlenberg School District
Muhlenberg School District
The Muhlenberg Area School District is a public school district serving parts of Berks County, Pennsylvania, USA. It encompasses the borough of Laureldale and the Muhlenberg Township. The district encompasses approximately 13 square miles. Per the 2000 federal census data it serves a resident...
in Berks County received the highest with a 22.31% increase in funding. The state's Basic Education Funding to the West Allegheny School District in 2008-09 was $5,166,410.07. The amount of increase each school district receives is determined by the Governor and the Secretary of Education through the allocation made in the budget proposal made in February each year.
In 2008, the administration reported that 588 students received a free or reduced price lunch based on the federal poverty levels.
Accountability Block Grants
Beginning in 2004-2005, the state launched the Accountability Block Grant school funding. This program has provided $1.5 billion to Pennsylvania’s school districts. The Accountability Block Grant program requires that its taxpayer dollars are focused on specific interventions that are most likely to increase student academic achievement. These interventions include: teacher training, All Day Kindergarten, lower class size K-3rd grade, literacy and math Coaching programs that provide teachers with individualized job-embedded professional development to improve their instruction, before or after school tutoring assistance to struggling students, For 2010-11 the district applied for and received $271,036 in addition to all other state and federal funding. West Allegheny School District uses the funding to pay teachers to write new curriculum and revise current classes and to provide taxpayer funded preschool for 3 and 4 year olds, for the 6th year.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 2006-2009. West Allegheny School District did not apply for funding in 2006-07. In 2007-08, the district received $93,346. In 2008-09, the district received $104,876 for a total funding of $198,222.Federal Stimulus Funding
The district received an extra $1,473,215 in ARRAArra
Arra is a census town in Puruliya district in the state of West Bengal, India.-Demographics: India census, Arra had a population of 19,911. Males constitute 52% of the population and females 48%. Arra has an average literacy rate of 66%, higher than the national average of 59.5%; with 59% of the...
- Federal Stimulus money to be used in specific programs like special education and meeting the academic needs of low income students. This funding was for school years 2009-10 and 2010-11.
Race to the Top
School district officials applied for the Race to the TopRace to the Top
Race to the Top, abbreviated R2T, RTTT or RTT, is a $4.35 billion United States Department of Education competition designed to spur innovation and reforms in state and local district K-12 education...
federal grant. When approved for the grant, the district will receive hundreds of thousands of additional federal dollars for improving student academic achievement. 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. Pennsylvania was not approved for the grant. The failure of districts to agree to participate was cited as one reason that Pennsylvania was not approved.
Common Cents state initiative
West Allegheny School District School Board chose to not participate in the Pennsylvania Department of Education Common Cents program. The program called for the state to audit the district, at no cost to local taxpayers, to identify ways the district could save tax dollars. After the review of the information, the district was not required to implement the recommended cost savings changes.Real Estate Taxes
In 2010, the West Allegheny School Board set the property taxes rate at 22.000 mills for the 2010-11 school year. A mill is $1 of tax for every $1,000 of a property's assessed value. Property taxes, in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, apply only to real estate - land and buildings. The property taxProperty tax
A property tax is an ad valorem levy on the value of property that the owner is required to pay. The tax is levied by the governing authority of the jurisdiction in which the property is located; it may be paid to a national government, a federated state or a municipality...
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. 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. Additionally, service related, disabled US military veterans may seek an exemption from paying property taxes. Pennsylvania school district revenues are dominated by two main sources: 1) Property tax collections, which account for the vast majority (between 75-85%) of local revenues; and 2) Act 511 tax collections, which are around 15% of revenues for school districts.
- 2009 - 22.0000 mills.
- 2008 - 22.0000 mills
- 2007 - 21.5000 mills
- 2006 - 21.5000 mills
- 2005 - 21.5000 mills
- 2004 - 18.6000 mills
Act 1 Adjusted index
The Act 1 of 2006 Index regulates the rates at which each school district can raise property taxes in Pennsylvania. Districts are not allowed to raise taxes above that index unless they allow voters to vote by referendum, or they seek an exception from the state Department of Education. The base index for the 2010-2011 school year is 2.9 percent, but the Act 1 Index can be adjusted higher, depending on a number of factors, such as property values and the personal income of district residents. Act 1 included 10 exceptions including: increasing pension costs, increases in special education costs, a catastrophe like a fire or flood, increase in health insurance costs for contracts in effect in 2006 or dwindling tax bases. The base index is the average of the percentage increase in the statewide average weekly wage, as determined by the PA Department of Labor and Industry, for the preceding calendar year and the percentage increase in the Employment Cost Index for Elementary and Secondary Schools, as determined by the Bureau of Labor StatisticsBureau of Labor Statistics
The Bureau of Labor Statistics is a unit of the United States Department of Labor. It is the principal fact-finding agency for the U.S. government in the broad field of labor economics and statistics. The BLS is a governmental statistical agency that collects, processes, analyzes, and...
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.
The School District Adjusted Index for the West Allegheny School District 2006-2007 through 2011-2012.
- 2006-07 - 4.5%, Base 3.9%
- 2007-08 - 4.0%, Base 3.4%
- 2008-09 - 5.3%, Base 4.4%
- 2009-10 - 5.0%, Base 4.1%
- 2010-11 - 3.6%, Base 2.9%
- 2011-12 - 1.7%, Base 1.4%
For the 2011-12 school year the West Allegheny School Board did not apply for exceptions to exceed the Act 1 Index. Each year, the West Allegheny School Board has the option of adopting either 1) a resolution in January certifying they will not increase taxes above their index or 2) a preliminary budget in February. A school district adopting the resolution may not apply for referendum exceptions or ask voters for a tax increase above the inflation index. A specific timeline for these decisions is publisher each year by the Pennsylvania Department of Education.
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.
For 2009 and 2010, the West Allegheny School Board did not apply for any exceptions to exceed the Index limit. 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.
Property tax relief
In 2011, the state set the district's property tax relief at $195 for 5,820 approved homesteads and farmsteads. In 2009, the Homestead/Farmstead Property Tax Relief from gambling for the school district was $207 per approved permanent primary residence. In the district, 5,490 property owners applied for the tax relief. The relief was subtracted from the total annual school property tax bill. Property owners apply for the relief through the county Treasurer's office. Farmers can qualify for a farmstead exemption on building used for agricultural purposes. The farm must be at least 10 contiguous acres and must be the primary residence of the owner. Farmers can qualify for both the homestead exemption and the farmstead exemption. In Allegheny County, 60% of eligible property owners applied for property tax relief in 2009.Additionally, the Pennsylvania Property Tax/Rent Rebate program is provided for low income Pennsylvanians aged 65 and older; widows and widowers aged 50 and older; and people with disabilities age 18 and older. The income limit is $35,000 for homeowners. The maximum rebate for both homeowners and renters is $650. Applicants can exclude one-half (1/2) of their Social Security income, so people who make substantially more than $35,000 may still qualify for a rebate. Individuals must apply annually for the rebate. This can be taken in addition to Homestead/Farmstead Property Tax Relief.
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%).
Extracurriculars
The district offers a variety of clubs, activities and sports.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.
The school colors are scarlet and gray, with the mascot being a Native American Indian depicted in full head-dress. The school's football team has gained notability by reaching play-off status during past years, and play divisional play-off games in Three Rivers Stadium
Three Rivers Stadium
Three Rivers Stadium was a multi-purpose stadium located in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania from 1970 to 2000. It was home to the Pittsburgh Pirates and the Pittsburgh Steelers, the city's Major League Baseball franchise and National Football League franchise respectively.Built as a replacement to...
. Through the 60's and 70's West Allegheny shared an intense rivalry with Fort Cherry School District
Fort Cherry School District
Fort Cherry School District is a small, rural public school district located in southwestern Pennsylvania. It covers a portion of suburban Pittsburgh and some outlying rural areas. The district serves students in a area that includes the towns of McDonald, Midway, and Hickory, as well as the...
.
Football: Team History
PIAA AAA State Championship Game History:- 2001- West Allegheny 28, Strath Haven 13 - State Champions
- 2000- Strath Haven 31, West Allegheny 28
- 1999- Strath Haven 21, West Allegheny 7
WPIAL AAA Champions:
- 2009
- 2001
- 2000
- 1999
- 1997
Notable alumni
- Tyler PalkoTyler PalkoTyler Palko is an American football player and starting quarterback for the Kansas City Chiefs of the National Football League. He was signed by the New Orleans Saints as an undrafted free agent in 2007. He played college football for the University of Pittsburgh.Palko was the starting quarterback...
- quarterback for the Kansas City ChiefsKansas City ChiefsThe Kansas City Chiefs are a professional American football team based in Kansas City, Missouri. They are a member of the Western Division of the American Football Conference in the National Football League . Originally named the Dallas Texans, the club was founded by Lamar Hunt in 1960 as a... - Dorin DickersonDorin DickersonDuring his off season he spends his time in Pittsburgh, and is an avid karaoke participant. He also enjoys playing softball and tennis.-External links:*...
- Houston TexansHouston TexansThe Houston Texans are a professional American football team based in Houston, Texas. The team is currently a member of the Southern Division of the American Football Conference in the National Football League...
wide receiver - Scott PattersonScott PattersonScott Patterson was a Canadian professional curler, from Pembroke, Ontario, Canada. Patterson was the only man to skip two North Bay rinks to the Brier - 1994 and '99. He also went was a member of the 1993 Northern Ontario mixed team. Also, while attending University in Sudbury, at Laurentian...
- Oakland A's pitcher - Dave BrytusDave BrytusDavid A. Brytus 6'4" 235 lbs is an American football punter and current free agent in the National Football League. He was signed as an undrafted free agent in April 2009 by the Baltimore Ravens. He played collegiate football at both Purdue University and the University of Pittsburgh...
- NFL free agent