The school district currently has 5 study councils. The study councils include Gifted Education, World Languages, Full Day Kindergarden, an dEnglish as a Second Language (ESL).
They will, from time to time, post their meetings on the district website. To read them go to http://www.bensalemsd.org/1440101011103849223/site/default.asp and click on the link in the left hand side. As of today there are minutes and a slide presentation from the Gifted Education study council.
Sunday, December 20, 2009
Friday, December 18, 2009
School Board Approves Intent to participate in Race To The Top
At our meeting on Wednesday, December 16th, 2009, we approved the intent to participate in Race To The Top (RTTT). In short we have agreed to send in a letter of intent to participate. To do this, the school board, superintendent, and our teachers will work together on reforms within the school district.
What is Race To The Top (RTTT)? It is a $4.35B competitive grant program awarded by the US Department of Education meant to drive reform in 4 specific areas. These areas are:
As we obtain more information on the status of Pennsylvania's application for participation, I pass the information along.
What is Race To The Top (RTTT)? It is a $4.35B competitive grant program awarded by the US Department of Education meant to drive reform in 4 specific areas. These areas are:
- Increase teacher and principal effectiveness and achieve equitable distributuion of teachers,
- Adopt internationally benchmarked standards and high quality assessments,
- Turn around struggling schools using one of 4 intervention models, and
- Improve the collection and use of data to improve instruction.
As we obtain more information on the status of Pennsylvania's application for participation, I pass the information along.
School Boards Association has solution for pension crisis
(OP-ED from the PSBA website)
School Boards Association has solution for pension crisis
By Thomas J. Gentzel, Executive Director
Friday, Dec. 11 began what could be a catastrophic era for Pennsylvania taxpayers. The Board of Trustees of the Pennsylvania School Employees Retirement System (PSERS) voted to increase the employer contribution rate to 8.22% of payroll for 2010-11, a 72% increase from this year’s rate.
Those percentages will continue to climb, reaching a projected rate of near 30% of payroll by 2012-13 and are estimated to remain above 20% for nearly two decades. How much will school property tax bills increase in order to fund this projected spike and ensuing plateau? How could it harm our children’s education, our children’s school environment and other community programs?
How many laptop computers for students will not be purchased? How many new teachers will not be hired? How many new textbooks will not be purchased? How many infrastructure improvements to technology or science labs will be delayed?
PSERS has both long- and short-term deficiencies. On Wednesday, Dec. 16, the Pennsylvania School Boards Association (PSBA) became the first school-related organization to propose a long-term solution to the looming PSERS crisis, earning sponsoring endorsements from both state Rep. Glenn Grell (R-Cumberland) and state Sen. Gene Yaw (R-Lycoming).
PSERS is a governmental, mandatory, multi-employer, defined benefit pension plan for Pennsylvania school employees. It was established in 1917, and is one of the oldest public pension plans in the United States. There are currently 739 school employers enrolled in PSERS (school districts, intermediate units, vo-tech schools, community and state-owned universities, charter schools, special schools and PSBA). PSERS serves more than 547,000 members, including those that are active, retired, vested and inactive.
A number of factors have led the system to the precarious fund balance position it currently holds. Government intervention, declining investment returns and the continued sluggish economy have all contributed to the dilemma. PSERS is funded from three sources: employee (member) contributions, employer (school district and state government) contributions and investment earnings. (The "employer" share is, of course, the taxpayer portion of the cost.)
While contributions on the part of both employers and employees have increased steadily, the investment income the system receives has suffered markedly, especially recently. Legislation enacted that increased benefits and put off paying the bill until 2013 has also had a negative impact.
In 2007-08, PSBA initiated a Pension Study Committee comprised of local school board members from across the state to examine the cost of the program and to recommend solutions. PSERS is a defined benefit plan (DB), different than most private sector plans, which are defined contribution plans (DC). The primary differences between these plans are how the pension benefit is determined and who bears the investment return risk.
In a DB plan, the employer is liable for paying benefits, which are a product of salary, service and a multiplier set by the legislature. This benefit represents costs that must be funded. The employer bears all investment risk. DB plans are mandatory in membership and contribution and have a lifetime benefit.
In a DC plan, which is similar to an individual’s 401(k), the benefit is determined by contributions and the investment performance of the member’s account. The member manages his or her own investments and holds the risk. These plans have a fixed employer cost and assets can be exhausted.
PSBA’s long-term proposal recommends the development of a new hybrid plan that would combine the best features of both the DB and DC plans. This hybrid plan balances everyone’s interests, respects school employees, continues public education as an attractive occupation and makes PSERS a more affordable and fair system.
Highlights of PSBA’s proposal are:
If we maintain the status quo, beginning in 2012-13, school boards will be faced with a decade-long string of employer contribution rates averaging between 29-33% a year (compared to 4.78% for this year). Imagine the things we won’t be able to accomplish with that money.
School Boards Association has solution for pension crisis
By Thomas J. Gentzel, Executive Director
Friday, Dec. 11 began what could be a catastrophic era for Pennsylvania taxpayers. The Board of Trustees of the Pennsylvania School Employees Retirement System (PSERS) voted to increase the employer contribution rate to 8.22% of payroll for 2010-11, a 72% increase from this year’s rate.
Those percentages will continue to climb, reaching a projected rate of near 30% of payroll by 2012-13 and are estimated to remain above 20% for nearly two decades. How much will school property tax bills increase in order to fund this projected spike and ensuing plateau? How could it harm our children’s education, our children’s school environment and other community programs?
How many laptop computers for students will not be purchased? How many new teachers will not be hired? How many new textbooks will not be purchased? How many infrastructure improvements to technology or science labs will be delayed?
PSERS has both long- and short-term deficiencies. On Wednesday, Dec. 16, the Pennsylvania School Boards Association (PSBA) became the first school-related organization to propose a long-term solution to the looming PSERS crisis, earning sponsoring endorsements from both state Rep. Glenn Grell (R-Cumberland) and state Sen. Gene Yaw (R-Lycoming).
PSERS is a governmental, mandatory, multi-employer, defined benefit pension plan for Pennsylvania school employees. It was established in 1917, and is one of the oldest public pension plans in the United States. There are currently 739 school employers enrolled in PSERS (school districts, intermediate units, vo-tech schools, community and state-owned universities, charter schools, special schools and PSBA). PSERS serves more than 547,000 members, including those that are active, retired, vested and inactive.
A number of factors have led the system to the precarious fund balance position it currently holds. Government intervention, declining investment returns and the continued sluggish economy have all contributed to the dilemma. PSERS is funded from three sources: employee (member) contributions, employer (school district and state government) contributions and investment earnings. (The "employer" share is, of course, the taxpayer portion of the cost.)
While contributions on the part of both employers and employees have increased steadily, the investment income the system receives has suffered markedly, especially recently. Legislation enacted that increased benefits and put off paying the bill until 2013 has also had a negative impact.
In 2007-08, PSBA initiated a Pension Study Committee comprised of local school board members from across the state to examine the cost of the program and to recommend solutions. PSERS is a defined benefit plan (DB), different than most private sector plans, which are defined contribution plans (DC). The primary differences between these plans are how the pension benefit is determined and who bears the investment return risk.
In a DB plan, the employer is liable for paying benefits, which are a product of salary, service and a multiplier set by the legislature. This benefit represents costs that must be funded. The employer bears all investment risk. DB plans are mandatory in membership and contribution and have a lifetime benefit.
In a DC plan, which is similar to an individual’s 401(k), the benefit is determined by contributions and the investment performance of the member’s account. The member manages his or her own investments and holds the risk. These plans have a fixed employer cost and assets can be exhausted.
PSBA’s long-term proposal recommends the development of a new hybrid plan that would combine the best features of both the DB and DC plans. This hybrid plan balances everyone’s interests, respects school employees, continues public education as an attractive occupation and makes PSERS a more affordable and fair system.
Highlights of PSBA’s proposal are:
- Establish a two-tier retirement system, one for current employees and another for those hired after a specified date (preferably as soon as possible).
- Cap the school district portion of the employer contribution rate for both pension plans at the Act 1 index; the commonwealth would fund any remaining employer obligation.
- Oppose enactment of any new benefit enhancements for either plan.
- Assign to PSERS responsibility to administer the benefits for both plans and to manage their assets.
PSBA’s bill creates a new retirement plan for future school employees. Its enactment must be accompanied by other actions to alleviate the impending dramatic increases in taxpayer-funded support for PSERS. What must not be allowed to happen is simply stretching out the existing debt to lower annual costs. That would only defer the problem. A new, more affordable retirement plan for school employees needs to be created. PSBA’s proposal fits that bill.
If we maintain the status quo, beginning in 2012-13, school boards will be faced with a decade-long string of employer contribution rates averaging between 29-33% a year (compared to 4.78% for this year). Imagine the things we won’t be able to accomplish with that money.
Wednesday, December 16, 2009
PSBA Pension Reform Bill to be Introduced Today
Information received from PSBA
Dec. 16, 2009 More Info
PSBA Pension Reform Bill to be Introduced Today;
Please Ask Your Legislator to Co-Sponsor
An announcement on the introduction of a bill calling for a major change to the Public School Employees Retirement System and backed by PSBA will be introduced this afternoon (Dec. 16) at 2:00 p.m.at the State Capitol.
Sponsored by Sen. Gene Yaw (R-Lycoming) and Rep. Glen Grell (R-Cumberland), the bill would transform PSERS from a 100% defined benefit system to a hybrid defined benefit/defined contribution system.
The proposal, HB 2135 (no Senate bill number at this writing), is part of the recommendation made by PSBA's Pension Study Committee in 2007. The recommendation was unanimously accepted by the PSBA Board of Directors and the PSBA Platform Committee and was overwhelmingly reaffirmed this past fall by voting delegates from around the state at the meeting of the PSBA Policy Council.
The legislation being proposed represents the committee's long term solution to the pension issue. As described previously, PSBA is calling for the creation of a hybrid pension system for school employees, one that combines the advantages of a defined benefit and a defined contribution system.
The bill would create a new class of employees, T-E, comprised of individuals who join the system after June 30, 2010. These employees will enjoy the benefits of a defined benefit system, albeit at a lower benefit level, but also have the opportunity to make contributions and control the types of investments in which their contributions are placed through a newly-created defined contribution program. At the time of their retirement, these individuals would reap the benefits earned by both the defined benefit investments and their defined contribution benefits.
The defined benefit features that would be included in the bill for class T-E employees are 1) an employee contribution rate of 3.25% of salary, down from the current 7.5%; 2) a multiplier of 1%, down from the current 2.5%; and 3) a vesting period of 10 years, up from the current 5-year period.
The new defined contribution system calls for the creation of an Individual Annuity Savings Account for all eligible members of the system. Each eligible member would contribute a minimum of 3% of their salary to the account, along with a mandatory match of 2% of compensation by the employer. Employees could contribute more subject to IRS limitations.
The PSERS Board of Directors would have the power to make any necessary rules and regulations for the administration and management of the Individual Annuity Savings Plan and have the power to enter into written agreements with one or more financial institutions or other organizations relating to the plan's administration and investment of funds. These rules and regulation include, but are not limited to the following:
The bill also modifies the 4% minimum employer contribution floor, so that it would remain in effect in years when the funded ratio of the plan is 100% or more. However this minimum rate would be offset by the amount of funds contributed as part of the defined contribution part of the system.
How you can help:
Please call your House and Senate member(s) and ask them to sign on to the co-sponsorship letter for HB 2135 and the Senate Bill. Interested legislators can also call Sen. Yaw's office at (717) 787-3280 or Rep. Grell at (717) 783-2063. These bills represent a major change to the current school employee's pension system that will save taxpayers and school districts millions of dollars that are needed to pay for pension contribution increases over the next 22 years.
PSBA is also participating in a hearing on public pension issues being conducted by the Senate Finance Committee this morning. PSBA's testimony is scheduled for 10:30 a.m.
Both the hearing and the news conference will likely be covered by the Pennsylvania Cable Network (PCN) for those wishing to view the proceedings.
Dec. 16, 2009 More Info
An announcement on the introduction of a bill calling for a major change to the Public School Employees Retirement System and backed by PSBA will be introduced this afternoon (Dec. 16) at 2:00 p.m.at the State Capitol.
The proposal, HB 2135 (no Senate bill number at this writing), is part of the recommendation made by PSBA's Pension Study Committee in 2007. The recommendation was unanimously accepted by the PSBA Board of Directors and the PSBA Platform Committee and was overwhelmingly reaffirmed this past fall by voting delegates from around the state at the meeting of the PSBA Policy Council.
The legislation being proposed represents the committee's long term solution to the pension issue. As described previously, PSBA is calling for the creation of a hybrid pension system for school employees, one that combines the advantages of a defined benefit and a defined contribution system.
- The types of investments that are permitted
- How and when individuals can transfer contributions between investments
- Procedures for deducting amounts to be deferred from members' compensation
- Standards or criteria for the selection for the selection of financial institutions or other organizations that may be qualified as managers of funds deferred under the plan or to provide other services relating to the administration and management of the plan
- Standards and criteria for disclosing and providing options to eligible individuals regarding investments of amounts deferred under the plan
- Standards and criteria for disclosing the anticipated and actual income attributable to amounts invested, property rights and all fees, costs and charges to be made against amounts deferred to cover the costs and expenses of administering and managing the plan or funds
- Procedures, standards and criteria for the making of withdrawals from the plan upon separation from employment or death or in other circumstances consistent with the purpose of the plan.
Also, the bill provides that increases in school district contributions to the pension system would be capped at the Act 1 index. Should the increase in the school district share of the employer contribution rate exceed the current year Act 1 index, the state would pick up the difference between the new employer contribution rate and the index.
The hybrid pension bill would save the system, including school districts and taxpayers, money over the long run because it would create a system that is less expensive to operate, both in terms of the contributions needed and in terms of the benefits paid out to retirees. Projections from Buck consultants, the actuaries used by PSERS, show that the employer contribution under the hybrid plan would be less than under the current plan over the next 25 years. Moreover, the current PSERS system benefit represents approximately 72% of final salary, while the hybrid plan benefit would represent anywhere from 53% -63% of salary depending on investment returns and the amount of salary employees choose to contribute to the defined contribution part of the plan.
Please call your House and Senate member(s) and ask them to sign on to the co-sponsorship letter for HB 2135 and the Senate Bill. Interested legislators can also call Sen. Yaw's office at (717) 787-3280 or Rep. Grell at (717) 783-2063. These bills represent a major change to the current school employee's pension system that will save taxpayers and school districts millions of dollars that are needed to pay for pension contribution increases over the next 22 years.
Visit PSBA's Web site now for access to a host of information on the pension issue including a sample letter we are asking you to send to your legislators asking them to co-sponsor the legislation.
The 2010 employer contribution rate has been set at 8.22%, a 72% increase over the current rate, so the large increases have already begun. The employer rate is projected to hit its maximum of 33.60% in 2015 and to remain above 20% until 2032, meaning that it is crucial that the Legislature begin its work now to find a solution so that those increases can be mitigated.
Thursday, December 3, 2009
Other stuff to do with the kids
Ok, so we decided to spoil the kids and let them go horse back riding. Yes, this is something you would usually do in the summer, but any nice day would do. My father found a place in Cream Ridge, NJ, that would teach you how to ride a horse. The trainer was wonderful. She went over everything including safety and grooming fo the horse. The kids got the chance to ride Casper in the arena. They are affordable and well worth the visit. For more information, go to http://www.freedomfarmusa.com/. Look on craigslist for their reduced rates.
Another thing to do with the kids is ice-skating. The beauty is you can go any time of the year at Grundy's in Bristol Boro. For more information go to http://www.grundyrink.org/.
Another thing to do with the kids is ice-skating. The beauty is you can go any time of the year at Grundy's in Bristol Boro. For more information go to http://www.grundyrink.org/.
Koziar's Christmas Village
This past weekend we took the kids to Koziar's Christmas Village. I had not been there since I was little, and it was even better this time, except for the fact everything seemed much smaller. :)
The kids liked walking through the village and looking at the various displays. Of course getting a picture with Rudolph did not hurt either. The drive is a little long, about 90 minutes, but well worth it. The prices are very affordable ($8 for an adult, $6 for junior, and children 5 and under are free). For more information on the village, go to: http://www.koziarschristmasvillage.com/home.html
The kids liked walking through the village and looking at the various displays. Of course getting a picture with Rudolph did not hurt either. The drive is a little long, about 90 minutes, but well worth it. The prices are very affordable ($8 for an adult, $6 for junior, and children 5 and under are free). For more information on the village, go to: http://www.koziarschristmasvillage.com/home.html Wednesday, November 25, 2009
Wednesday, November 18, 2009
Bucks County Citizen Forum: Voices and Vision for Public Education in Pennsylvania
Monday, November 23 Bucks County Community College, Newtown PA Gateway Auditorium, 6:30-9pm
The goal of this deliberative forum is to work with diverse groups of citizens to identify what education issues they think are most important for the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania to address in the coming months and years. Diversity of perspectives is important to this work and we seek and value everyone’s input.
For more information please visit: http://www.educationvoterspa.org/ or click here.
The goal of this deliberative forum is to work with diverse groups of citizens to identify what education issues they think are most important for the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania to address in the coming months and years. Diversity of perspectives is important to this work and we seek and value everyone’s input.
For more information please visit: http://www.educationvoterspa.org/ or click here.
PhillyBurbs.com: Visitors bureau plans TreeFest
PhillyBurbs.com: Visitors bureau plans TreeFest
The Bucks County Conference & Visitors Bureau Tuesday will kick off its annual Holiday TreeFest, a seasonal display at the Bucks County Visitors Center, 3207 Street Road, Bensalem.
From Tuesday until Jan. 9, the center will display 25 themed trees in its gallery. The trees are sponsored and decorated by bureau members such as Twining Village in Northampton, The Sportsplex in Lower Southampton, Sadie's Bridal in Bensalem and Craven Hall Historical Society in Warminster.
Advertisement The bureau will formally open the season at 5 p.m. Tuesday at a public tree lighting event, which includes live music and an appearance by Santa Claus.
For more information, call 800-836-BUCKS.
Posted using ShareThis
The Bucks County Conference & Visitors Bureau Tuesday will kick off its annual Holiday TreeFest, a seasonal display at the Bucks County Visitors Center, 3207 Street Road, Bensalem.
From Tuesday until Jan. 9, the center will display 25 themed trees in its gallery. The trees are sponsored and decorated by bureau members such as Twining Village in Northampton, The Sportsplex in Lower Southampton, Sadie's Bridal in Bensalem and Craven Hall Historical Society in Warminster.
Advertisement The bureau will formally open the season at 5 p.m. Tuesday at a public tree lighting event, which includes live music and an appearance by Santa Claus.
For more information, call 800-836-BUCKS.
Posted using ShareThis
Thursday, November 12, 2009
Sunday, November 8, 2009
H1N1 Vaccine - Students MUST have parental consent form filled out!
The Bucks County Department of Health (BCDH) in partnership with the Bensalem School District will be offering the H1N1 vaccine free of charge to students in Bensalem Schools on Monday, November 23 from 3 to 9 PM. Click Here to view letter from Dr. Damsker, Director of BCDH.
A letter from Dr. Damsker, Director of BCDH, was mailed to all students on Friday, November 6, along with the vaccination consent form and two H1N1 Fact Sheets.
Included in the margin on the left of the website are the English and Spanish versions of Vaccine Information Statements (VIS) for both the nasal spray and the injectable vaccines, and the necessary parental consent forms to be completed by families for those parents who wish to have their children vaccinated. To view all necessary documents, please got the Bendalem School District website, or click here. (A new window will open)
A letter from Dr. Damsker, Director of BCDH, was mailed to all students on Friday, November 6, along with the vaccination consent form and two H1N1 Fact Sheets.
Included in the margin on the left of the website are the English and Spanish versions of Vaccine Information Statements (VIS) for both the nasal spray and the injectable vaccines, and the necessary parental consent forms to be completed by families for those parents who wish to have their children vaccinated. To view all necessary documents, please got the Bendalem School District website, or click here. (A new window will open)
Thursday, October 15, 2009
Wednesday, September 23, 2009
Opportunity To Be Involved
To: Interested Community Members, Teachers, Administrators
From: Dr. William J. Gretzula
Re: Study Councils
Dated: September 23, 2009
Bensalem Township School District (BTSD) is ready to begin the process of studying for future action a number of existing initiatives. We seek volunteers to serve on various study councils, charged with researching and making recommendations regarding the following topics:
1. World Languages: Currently, we enjoy an interesting mix of world language opportunities for our high school students. Also, students at the middle school level have the opportunity to take Spanish I over the course of seventh and eighth grade. Students at the elementary school level were exposed to Spanish in third grade. It was anticipated the program would expand to fourth grade for the 2009- 10 school year; however, the elementary program was suspended due to the loss of our highly qualified teachers. The committee’s charge will be to review BTSD’s past and current implementation and to make recommendations for a district-wide World Language program that best prepares our students for the interconnected world in which they will make their way.
2. Full Day Kindergarten: BTSD is in the third year of piloting full day kindergarten (FDK) with one section of 17 students in each of our six elementary schools. This committee’s charge will be to review the District’s past and current implementation and to make recommendations for the future of the Bensalem kindergarten experience.
3. English as a Second Language (ESL): Bensalem Township has witnessed changing demographics particularly over the past five years. Subsequently, BTSD’s ESL population has grown from 80 students to approximately 400 students over the same time period. While BTSD is proud of the services it provides to students in need of ESL support, it is anticipated that it will need to be proactive to offer ESL support to future students of the District. This committee’s charge will be to research and make recommendations for an ESL program that meets the needs of all identified students in their school of residence.
4. Gifted Education: BTSD desires to challenge and support all learners as they determine their personal definition of success. The Bensalem community has been engaged in a year-long discussion regarding the best way to meet the needs of students identified of being in need of gifted education. Gifted Support looks different at each level. This committee’s charge has been to research and make recommendations for the future of the Bensalem Gifted Education Program.
All committees will begin work in October 2009 and will complete their work by March 2010. Interested in serving? Contact Susan Harder at the District Office, (215) 750-2800, Ext. 4100 by Friday, October 2, 2009.
From: Dr. William J. Gretzula
Re: Study Councils
Dated: September 23, 2009
Bensalem Township School District (BTSD) is ready to begin the process of studying for future action a number of existing initiatives. We seek volunteers to serve on various study councils, charged with researching and making recommendations regarding the following topics:
1. World Languages: Currently, we enjoy an interesting mix of world language opportunities for our high school students. Also, students at the middle school level have the opportunity to take Spanish I over the course of seventh and eighth grade. Students at the elementary school level were exposed to Spanish in third grade. It was anticipated the program would expand to fourth grade for the 2009- 10 school year; however, the elementary program was suspended due to the loss of our highly qualified teachers. The committee’s charge will be to review BTSD’s past and current implementation and to make recommendations for a district-wide World Language program that best prepares our students for the interconnected world in which they will make their way.
2. Full Day Kindergarten: BTSD is in the third year of piloting full day kindergarten (FDK) with one section of 17 students in each of our six elementary schools. This committee’s charge will be to review the District’s past and current implementation and to make recommendations for the future of the Bensalem kindergarten experience.
3. English as a Second Language (ESL): Bensalem Township has witnessed changing demographics particularly over the past five years. Subsequently, BTSD’s ESL population has grown from 80 students to approximately 400 students over the same time period. While BTSD is proud of the services it provides to students in need of ESL support, it is anticipated that it will need to be proactive to offer ESL support to future students of the District. This committee’s charge will be to research and make recommendations for an ESL program that meets the needs of all identified students in their school of residence.
4. Gifted Education: BTSD desires to challenge and support all learners as they determine their personal definition of success. The Bensalem community has been engaged in a year-long discussion regarding the best way to meet the needs of students identified of being in need of gifted education. Gifted Support looks different at each level. This committee’s charge has been to research and make recommendations for the future of the Bensalem Gifted Education Program.
All committees will begin work in October 2009 and will complete their work by March 2010. Interested in serving? Contact Susan Harder at the District Office, (215) 750-2800, Ext. 4100 by Friday, October 2, 2009.
Friday, September 18, 2009
Tuesday, September 15, 2009
School Board Reminder
Our scheduled meeting of the board from last week will be held tomorrow night. To see the agenda click here. To see a copy of our agenda go to http://www.bensalemsd.org/, go to the "Our District" tab and then go into "School Board Information". When the page opens you can look on the left hand side for the agenda items.
Also, please do not forget the school board meetings can be viewed on Comcast channel 28 and Verizon FiOS channel 32.
Also, please do not forget the school board meetings can be viewed on Comcast channel 28 and Verizon FiOS channel 32.
Monday, September 14, 2009
Friday, September 11, 2009
Pre-Schoolers Invited to BHS
From the Bensalem Township Website: (to sii it on the web go to http://www.bensalemsd.org/bensalemsd/cwp/view.asp?A=3&Q=301682)
Pre-Schoolers Invited to BHS
Registrations for pre-school classes at Bensalem High School are currently being accepted. These classes are part of the Child Development Course offered by the Family and Consumer Science Department at Bensalem High School. The high school students gain knowledge and skills working with pre-school children. There is no charge for participation and the pre-school is not designed to serve as a day care center for working parents.
The children will attend approximately 60 days of preschool running on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday beginning in late October and ending in May. As in years past, there will not be a mid-winter break. The morning class begins at 9:30 a.m. and ends at 11:00 a.m. The afternoon class is from 12:40 p.m. to 2:10 p.m. Enrollment is open to children who will be four (4) years of age by August 31, 2009. Registration must be made by a parent or guardian and will close as soon as each class limit of twelve (12) is met. To ensure a space for your child, please register early. Children must live in the Bensalem Township School District and parents may not be employed by the school district.
NOTE: The preschool will operate on the high school schedule. If there is no school for the high school students, there will be no preschool. There is NO district transportation.
To register or to obtain more information, contact Mrs. Jerilyn Bowler, preferably by email at jbowler@bensalemsd.org or by phone at 215-750-2800, Ext. 3028. Bensalem High School is located at 4319 Hulmeville Road, Bensalem, PA.
Pre-Schoolers Invited to BHS
Registrations for pre-school classes at Bensalem High School are currently being accepted. These classes are part of the Child Development Course offered by the Family and Consumer Science Department at Bensalem High School. The high school students gain knowledge and skills working with pre-school children. There is no charge for participation and the pre-school is not designed to serve as a day care center for working parents.
The children will attend approximately 60 days of preschool running on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday beginning in late October and ending in May. As in years past, there will not be a mid-winter break. The morning class begins at 9:30 a.m. and ends at 11:00 a.m. The afternoon class is from 12:40 p.m. to 2:10 p.m. Enrollment is open to children who will be four (4) years of age by August 31, 2009. Registration must be made by a parent or guardian and will close as soon as each class limit of twelve (12) is met. To ensure a space for your child, please register early. Children must live in the Bensalem Township School District and parents may not be employed by the school district.
NOTE: The preschool will operate on the high school schedule. If there is no school for the high school students, there will be no preschool. There is NO district transportation.
To register or to obtain more information, contact Mrs. Jerilyn Bowler, preferably by email at jbowler@bensalemsd.org or by phone at 215-750-2800, Ext. 3028. Bensalem High School is located at 4319 Hulmeville Road, Bensalem, PA.
Tuesday, September 8, 2009
Monday, September 7, 2009
President's Address to the Students
The following is a letter put out by our Superintendent regarding the President's address set for tomorrow at noon. This letter will be posted on the website (http://www.bensalemsd.org/) first thing tomorrow morning:
September 7, 2009
Dear Members of the Bensalem Township School District Community,
President Obama will address the school children of America in a live broadcast on CSPAN at 12:00 p.m. on Tuesday, September 8, 2009. The webcast will also be available at http://www.whitehouse.gov. I am sending this communication in an effort to answer questions that have arisen throughout our community.
Last week, school districts in Pennsylvania received information from the United States Department of Education and the Pennsylvania Department of Education on how to access the President’s address. I forwarded this access information to our building Principals to share with our teachers so they could consider the instructional value of the address. This was not a directive, but rather an extension of an educational opportunity for classrooms.
BENSALEM TOWNSHIP SCHOOL DISTRICT
Dorothy D. Call Administrative Center
3000 Donallen Drive Bensalem, PA 19020
William J. Gretzula, Ed.D. Telephone: 215-750-2800; ext. 4100
District Superintendent E-Mail: wgretzula@bensalemsd.org
Dorothy D. Call Administrative Center
3000 Donallen Drive Bensalem, PA 19020
William J. Gretzula, Ed.D. Telephone: 215-750-2800; ext. 4100
District Superintendent E-Mail: wgretzula@bensalemsd.org
September 7, 2009
Dear Members of the Bensalem Township School District Community,
President Obama will address the school children of America in a live broadcast on CSPAN at 12:00 p.m. on Tuesday, September 8, 2009. The webcast will also be available at http://www.whitehouse.gov. I am sending this communication in an effort to answer questions that have arisen throughout our community.
Last week, school districts in Pennsylvania received information from the United States Department of Education and the Pennsylvania Department of Education on how to access the President’s address. I forwarded this access information to our building Principals to share with our teachers so they could consider the instructional value of the address. This was not a directive, but rather an extension of an educational opportunity for classrooms.
The President’s remarks have been posted on the White House website. Much like the mission statement and core beliefs of Bensalem Township School District (BTSD), President Obama plans to recognize the following:
- Students should be challenged to work hard and be supported by the entire community including adults who students can trust;
- Students have a personal responsibility to accomplish their personally developed goals or personal definitions of success;
- Second chances are important for student learning; and
- Students should be engaged in learning activities in, and beyond, the classroom.
Though the intent of the message seems appropriate for our students, the timing of the address presents problems for live presentation to our students. Many students will not be able to see the address at that time of day. As a result, BTSD intends to maintain a regular school routine. The following directives have been issued to our staff:
- Elementary classrooms will not view the President’s speech live during the 12:00 broadcast time. Parents are encouraged to view the message at home in the evening with their children as a re-broadcast or at the http://www.whitehouse.gov/ website. Teachers may choose to show excerpts of this speech at a later time, if, after review, they believe it connects appropriately to the content for their classroom.
- In Middle School and High School classrooms, teachers will have discretion to view this message with their class during the 12:00 broadcast if there is a connection to the curriculum content of that course. Archival copies will be available to staff who may wish to use the address at a later time for courses that have a direct connection to the content of the speech. No student will be compelled to view the address. Parents are to be informed if parts of the address are used in the classroom.
Welcome back to classes at Bensalem Township School District. We look forward to an exciting 2009-10 school year!
Sunday, September 6, 2009
Tuesday, September 8th and Next Board Meeting
The next scheduled board meeting will be moved to Wednesday, September 16th, 2009.
For those of you who are concerned about the President's speech on Tuesday, all I can say is to call your children's school to find out what each school is doing. I have not been given an answer as to how this is going to be handled. This morning I did receive an e-mail from a parent who had contacted their child's principal. From what I can tell, Valley Elementary will not be showing the speech on Tuesday.
Phone numbers for each school can be found by going to www.bensalemsd.org. Choose your school from the drop down and then choose the administration tab.
If I find out more in the mean time I will post an update.
For those of you who are concerned about the President's speech on Tuesday, all I can say is to call your children's school to find out what each school is doing. I have not been given an answer as to how this is going to be handled. This morning I did receive an e-mail from a parent who had contacted their child's principal. From what I can tell, Valley Elementary will not be showing the speech on Tuesday.
Phone numbers for each school can be found by going to www.bensalemsd.org. Choose your school from the drop down and then choose the administration tab.
If I find out more in the mean time I will post an update.
Friday, August 28, 2009
Bensalem Cop Cards
"(The) 2009 Cop Card program provides children between the ages of 6 and 14 to meet officers, detectives and other support staff while collecting police trading cards. The current set is comprised of 90 cards. This is our biggest set ever! Individual and some special cards will be available from officers on patrol (Note: 7 PM is the general shift change). "
For more information, go to the Bensalem Police website (http://www.bensalempolice.org/copcards.html).
Thursday, August 27, 2009
BHS Home and School
Need to keep up with what is going on at BHS? Sign up for the e-mail update and receive weekly reminders of what is going on at the High School. All you need to do is e-mail skutner@bensalemsd.org and request to be added to the list. Stacy does an incredible job keeping up with what is going on at BHS!
To visit the web page for the BHS Home & School Association, click here. On the left of the page there is a list of useful links.
To visit the web page for the BHS Home & School Association, click here. On the left of the page there is a list of useful links.
School Board Meeting (August 26th, 2009)
Below are some items of interest from Wednesday night's meeting:
New Appointments:
Special Education Supervisor - Ed Sczesniak
High School Assistant Principal - Ken Napaver
High School Assistant Principal - Steve Louella
Just For The Kids:
Classroom applications have been sent out so teachers can apply for grants from Just For The Kids. To find out more about them, click here.
More importantly, on Saturday, September 26, 2009, the Bucks County Road Runners are teaming up with the Just For The Kids Education Foundation to present the 3rd Annual Robert Massaroni Memorial 5K Run and 1 Mile Fun Run/Walk. To download an application, or apply online, go to http://www.massaroni5k.com/.
New Appointments:
Special Education Supervisor - Ed Sczesniak
High School Assistant Principal - Ken Napaver
High School Assistant Principal - Steve Louella
Just For The Kids:
Classroom applications have been sent out so teachers can apply for grants from Just For The Kids. To find out more about them, click here.
More importantly, on Saturday, September 26, 2009, the Bucks County Road Runners are teaming up with the Just For The Kids Education Foundation to present the 3rd Annual Robert Massaroni Memorial 5K Run and 1 Mile Fun Run/Walk. To download an application, or apply online, go to http://www.massaroni5k.com/.
Tuesday, August 25, 2009
E-mail from Gene DiGirolamo
To receive these informative e-mails, visit http://www.genedigirolamo.com/ and fill in the information under "Get E-mail Updates".
School Bus Safety Tips For Motorists and Parents
With classes beginning in the Bensalem School District on Sept. 8 and in the Neshaminy School District on Sept. 1 and 2 students, parents and motorists should be advised about school bus safety.
Ensuring our children have safe travel to and from school is of the utmost importance, especially in a very busy suburban area such as ours.
For Motorists
The following tips and reminders relate to motorists:
- When driving in neighborhoods with school zones, watch out for young people who may be thinking about getting to school, but may not be thinking of getting there safely.
Slow down. Watch for children walking in the street, especially if there are no sidewalks, and children playing and congregating near bus stops. - Obey school bus laws. Yellow flashing lights on a school bus signal the bus will soon be making a stop to load or unload children. Slow down and prepare to stop. Red flashing lights and extended stop arm signal that the bus has stopped and children are getting on or off. Stop at least 10 feet before reaching the school bus and wait until the bus has begun to move before starting to drive again. Never pass a bus while its red signal lights are flashing even on divided and/or multi-lane highways.
- Be alert. Children arriving late for the bus may dart into the street without looking for traffic.
For Parents
Parents should also teach children to follow these commonsense practices to make school bus transportation safer:
- Arrive at the bus stop at least five minutes before the bus is scheduled to arrive.
- Stand at least three giant steps away from the curb and line up away from the street while the bus is approaching. Wait until the bus stops, the door opens, and the driver says that it is okay before stepping onto the bus.
- Walk at least five giant steps ahead of the bus if crossing the street is necessary. Always be sure the bus driver can see you, and you can see the bus driver.
- Never walk behind the bus.
- If you drop something near the bus, tell the bus driver. Never try to pick it up because the driver may not be able to see you.
Follow these basic back to school safety tips to ensure Pennsylvania’s youths arrive to and from school safely. For additional safety information, please visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s Web site at www.nhtsa.dot.gov.
Transportation & Class Assignments
TransportationTransportation postcards will be mailed to all students beginning September 2, 2009.
Class Assignments
Class Assignments
- Elementary class assignments will be noted on the transportation postcard. Walkers will also receive a postcard with their class assignment.
- Individual student schedules will be mailed to all middle school students the week of August 31.
- High school course selection verification sheets will be mailed by August 28. Students will receive their schedules on the first day of school.
For information on Back To School Nights, click here.
Wednesday, August 19, 2009
PhillyBurbs.com: District makes cuts over state budget woes
PhillyBurbs.com: District makes cuts over state budget woes
*** Please keep in mind this in no way means Bensalem School District has any plans to cut the current Full Day Kindergarten Pilot Program! I am simply adding this to my blog for informational purposes. (Although we are currently expecting a $1.5 MILLION drop in the money we were expecting from the state.) ***
Posted using ShareThis
*** Please keep in mind this in no way means Bensalem School District has any plans to cut the current Full Day Kindergarten Pilot Program! I am simply adding this to my blog for informational purposes. (Although we are currently expecting a $1.5 MILLION drop in the money we were expecting from the state.) ***
Posted using ShareThis
Tuesday, August 18, 2009
BHS Cheerleader Fundraiser
I received the following in an e-mail this afternoon:
On Tuesday August 18th, 2009 the Bensalem Cheerleaders will be doing a fundraiser at the Sonic on Street Road. Sonic will donate 10% of all sales made that day during 12 pm and 8 pm back to the cheerleaders as long as you bring this flyer with you. During the same time, the Pennsbury cheerleaders will be doing the same thing at the Levittown location of Sonic. This is a friendly competition between the two schools to see who can raise the most money.
** You need a copy of the flyer for the 10% to go to the cheerleaders. Right click on the image and choose "save picture as" or "print picture". **
Monday, August 17, 2009
Back To School Nights
Back To School Nights are scheduled for each school and are designed to help parents obtain information about their student's schedules. Updates on school policies, expectations of the teachers, and academic programs will be discussed.
Bensalem Township Back to School Nights are as follows:
Bensalem Township Back to School Nights are as follows:
- Belmont Hills Elementary School - Thursday, September 24, 6:30 p.m.
- Cornwells Elementary School - Tuesday, September 22, 6:30 p.m.
- Samuel K. Faust Elementary School - Wednesday, September 16, 6:30 p.m.
- Benjamin Rush Elementary School - Thursday, September 10, 6:30 p.m.
- Russell C. Struble Elementary School - Monday, September 21, 6:30 p.m.
- Valley Elementary School - Thursday, September 17, 6:00 p.m.
- Robert K. Shafer Middle School - Monday September 14, 7:00 p.m.
- Cecelia Snyder Middle School - Tuesday September 15, 6:30 p.m.
- Bensalem High School - Wednesday, September 30, 6:30 p.m.
For a pdf version of the dates, click here or visit http://www.bensalemsd.org/.
Friday, August 14, 2009
Thursday, August 13, 2009
Sesame Place
I had no intentions of taking my kids there. Why spend $52 per person, plus parking ($15 min each visit) for a two day pass? (For a family of 4 that is $238 for a 2 day pass and general parking.) But I got pulled in anyway. I figured the season pass is not too bad of an idea. If you buy the season pass for next year you get the rest of the 2009 season for free. We got the passes last week .... and have gone 4 times already. It is a little painful at the beginning, but we now have stuff to do next summer that will not have to cost money. (If you order the passes on line they have an option to make payments over time)Another good thing about the park, it is not just for kids. I will admit I have had fun. The water slides in the Count's Castle are big enough for adults. There are larger slides also. My youngest is just over 42 inches so he can even ride most of the rides without an adult. Next is the rollercoaster!
Last, but not least, is the fact that you can take in a cooler. It must be no larger than 10"x10"x12", that is all you need for drinks. We have taken in our lunch and packed the drinks in the cooler. Unless you want to buy lunch, pictures, or play games, there is really nothing you have to buy when you are there. Pack lightly though ... lockers, although large, are $20.
High School Schedule Change
There is a news show featuring Mr. Perry which explains the new schedule at BHS. The Show will air 9am and 9pm daily now through September 10th, 2009.
Remember to check the school district's website for information!
Back To Work - School Board Meeting 8/12/2009
Last night we had our first board meeting after the summer break. Items of note include the approval of the new schedule at the High School (See previous post) and we went over the PSSA results for the district. Bensalem School District as a whole made AYP again! I will post more on the scores a little later.
As for the new schedule at the high school, I asked about how we would handle snow days. Mr. Perry said they would just keep going on the regular schedule when the students return. For example, if Monday is an "A" day, and Tuesday is a snow day, then when the students return on Wednesday they should be prepared for "B" day classes.
As for the new schedule at the high school, I asked about how we would handle snow days. Mr. Perry said they would just keep going on the regular schedule when the students return. For example, if Monday is an "A" day, and Tuesday is a snow day, then when the students return on Wednesday they should be prepared for "B" day classes.
Friday, August 7, 2009
PhillyBurbs.com: Parents air concerns about alternating block schedule plan
PhillyBurbs.com: Parents air concerns about alternating block schedule plan
Although I am glad the Courier sent someone to cover the meeting, there are a few things that were not explained fully. If there are any questions, please feel free to ask for clarifications:
Although I am glad the Courier sent someone to cover the meeting, there are a few things that were not explained fully. If there are any questions, please feel free to ask for clarifications:
- "Also, the new block schedule would have the same 82-minute classes, but at the half-way point, the teacher would stop and make sure everyone understood the day's lesson."
This is partially true. Teachers check for learning during their lessons now, and that will not change. The new schedule will allow for teachers to stop their class every 7 school days to allow teachers to help those students who need it. (See image below) The first day of the school year students will be attending periods 1, 3, 5, and 7. Since this is day one, they would have 41 minutes instruction and 41 minutes of extra help from the teacher. On the second day of the cycle, the split would happen in period 2, on the third day it would be period 3 and so on. The circles over the periods would show what days they have class time split. As you can see, at the end of the 8 day cycle, it starts over again with period one (see Thurs. above.) - "Some parents argued the new system of taking a break for those who don't understand a lesson, will turn the rest of the class into a gabfest for students."
Yes, this was a concern for parents. The Courier did not explain that Mr. Perry stated if a students does not need the help in that class they can work on enrichment for that class, work on a project for that class, or go to another teacher for help in another subject (with approval from their teacher.) For example, if a student is in the 9th grade Exploratory Science class, they may be able to work on their project during that time. Or, if the student is in English and does not need help with English but does need help with History, the students English teacher can give permission to go to the History teacher for the extra time. (I would expect this to be cleared with the History teacher ahead of time also.)
Monday, July 27, 2009
KidsBowlFree.com
Something inexpensive for the kids to do this summer:
This program allows for children to bowl 2 free games a day for free. You can also sign up, and pay $23.95, for a pass that will allow for up to 4 adults to bowl up to 2 games per day at no extra cost. This does not include leagues, extreme bowling, and some other functions. Enjoy!
KidsBowlFree.com
This program allows for children to bowl 2 free games a day for free. You can also sign up, and pay $23.95, for a pass that will allow for up to 4 adults to bowl up to 2 games per day at no extra cost. This does not include leagues, extreme bowling, and some other functions. Enjoy!
Wednesday, July 22, 2009
New Gymnasium
From Courier Times Now ...
Natalie Nicholas leaves the Physical Education Facility Groudbreaking Program held at Bensalem High School with balloons, Wednesday. The ceremony broke ground on the long awaited fitness center that will be located behind the school. The estimated $14.5 million project is a joint venture between the school district, township and state.
Monday, July 20, 2009
House Bill 1416
Apparently the House has passed House bill 1416 which will cut $118 Million from the proposed budget for education. Our State Rep., Gene DiGirolamo, voted NO for this. It is now up for second consideration with the Senate. To see the votes or where they are in the process, click here.
Let's hope our Senators pull through and our children's education does not get hurt in the process.
Let's hope our Senators pull through and our children's education does not get hurt in the process.
Wednesday, July 8, 2009
From Gene DiGirolamo
I received the following in an e-mail. (You can sign up to get informative e-mails by going to GeneDiGirolamo.com).
Bucks County Senior Citizens Benefit
from PA Lottery Proceeds
Nearly $26 million in proceeds from the Pennsylvania Lottery provided benefits to the senior citizens in Bucks County during the 2007-08 fiscal year, according to a report recently released by the Pennsylvania Departments of Revenue and Aging.
Since 1971 when the Lottery was first created in Pennsylvania, the proceeds have benefited programs specifically geared toward senior citizens. Of those are the 52 Area Agencies on Aging and more than 600 full- and part-time senior centers, the PACE and PACENET prescription drug coverage program, shared and free rides, and the Property Tax/Rent Rebate program.
Locally, seniors in Bucks County benefited from $25.7 million in services. The breakdown includes:
Area Agency on Aging and affiliated senior centers -- $4.6 million.
PACE and PACENET -- $10.85 million.
Shared and Free Ride Program -- $4.1 million.
Property Tax and Rent Rebates -- $6.09 million.
In addition, more than $71 million in lottery prizes were awarded to residents of Bucks County.
The Pennsylvania Lottery is unique in that it remains the only lottery in the nation that exclusively targets all of its proceeds to programs for older residents. Anyone who thinks they may be eligible for PACE, PACENET or the Property Tax/Rent Rebate program should visit my Web site at GeneDiGirolamo.com or contact my district office.
Bucks County Senior Citizens Benefit
from PA Lottery Proceeds
Nearly $26 million in proceeds from the Pennsylvania Lottery provided benefits to the senior citizens in Bucks County during the 2007-08 fiscal year, according to a report recently released by the Pennsylvania Departments of Revenue and Aging.
Since 1971 when the Lottery was first created in Pennsylvania, the proceeds have benefited programs specifically geared toward senior citizens. Of those are the 52 Area Agencies on Aging and more than 600 full- and part-time senior centers, the PACE and PACENET prescription drug coverage program, shared and free rides, and the Property Tax/Rent Rebate program.
Locally, seniors in Bucks County benefited from $25.7 million in services. The breakdown includes:
Area Agency on Aging and affiliated senior centers -- $4.6 million.
PACE and PACENET -- $10.85 million.
Shared and Free Ride Program -- $4.1 million.
Property Tax and Rent Rebates -- $6.09 million.
In addition, more than $71 million in lottery prizes were awarded to residents of Bucks County.
The Pennsylvania Lottery is unique in that it remains the only lottery in the nation that exclusively targets all of its proceeds to programs for older residents. Anyone who thinks they may be eligible for PACE, PACENET or the Property Tax/Rent Rebate program should visit my Web site at GeneDiGirolamo.com or contact my district office.
Thursday, June 18, 2009
June 17th School Board Meeting
The final vote for the budget was held on June 17th. It passed with a vote of 6 to 2 ... surprisingly enough I was one of the yes votes. When it came down to it, the average increase of $79.20 is better than most areas and if we were to go any lower we would start to lose programs. It is a tough time for everyone, but there is no need to make it tough on the children by cutting programs.
(Now we need to hope the state does not cut the $1.1 million in stimulus money we are supposed to receive.)
We also had the pleasure of electing our new Superintendent, Dr. Gretzula. We all agreed he was the best person to help us continue along the path we have set for Bensalem School District.
Courier Times Article
(Now we need to hope the state does not cut the $1.1 million in stimulus money we are supposed to receive.)
We also had the pleasure of electing our new Superintendent, Dr. Gretzula. We all agreed he was the best person to help us continue along the path we have set for Bensalem School District.
Courier Times Article
Monday, June 15, 2009
More School Board Stuff ...
Just a few updates:
- This evening the Seniors of Bensalem High School will take their final walk out of the school as students. Weather permitting, graduation will be held at 7pm at the stadium.
- The Final Budget will be voted on this Wednesday, June 17th. We are down to just under an AVERAGE $80 increase.
Congratulations to the Class of 2009!
Thursday, June 11, 2009
June 10th, 2009 School Board Meeting
Last night the School district honored it's retiring employees before the board meetings. We had many teachers who have spent over 25 years with the district ... some retiring with 40 years of service.
We also had the last budget meeting. The AVERAGE tax increase has been decreased to $76. We need to keep in mind two very important things:
We also had the last budget meeting. The AVERAGE tax increase has been decreased to $76. We need to keep in mind two very important things:
- This is an AVERAGE, not the increase everyone will see. Some homeowners will see a higher increase while others will pay less. The amount paid is based on the assessed value of your home.
- This budget accounts for over $1.8 million in stimulus funds from the state. This money will only be available for the 09-10 and 10-11 school years. We can not count on this money in the future to help with our costs.
There were also concerns about positions at the high school that may be cut in addition to district wide positions that may be affected. These needed to be discussed in Executive Session under personnel matters. The final vote on the budget will be held on June 17th, 2009.
During the Regular Action Meeting we voted to approve the Full Day Kindergarten Pilot program. The previous vote for this pilot program mentioned that it would be funded by the Accountability Block Grant. Last year we did not get as much in the ABG as expected and this year that money has been rolled into our regular budget. To make sure we could still have the program, we needed to vote on the program again without mentioning the grants. The lotteries for the program will be held as follows:
- Belmont Hills 2:00 pm
- Cornwells 2:15 pm
- Faust 2:30 pm
- Rush 2:45 pm
- Struble 3:00 pm
- Valley 3:15 pm
Sunday, June 7, 2009
PhillyBurbs.com: Residents applaud givebacks, but criticism remains
PhillyBurbs.com: Residents applaud givebacks, but criticism remains
This article is about the teacher concessions in Quakertown.
This article is about the teacher concessions in Quakertown.
Thursday, June 4, 2009
Final Budget Vote Re-Scheduled
The vote on the Final Budget for the 2009-2010 school year for Bensalem School District will be held on June 17th, 2009. We will be meeting at 7:00 pm at the District Office. The meeting had originally been scheduled for June 10th.
If there are any questions regarding the budget, please check out the information at the Bensalem School District website (www.bensalemsd.org).
If there are any questions regarding the budget, please check out the information at the Bensalem School District website (www.bensalemsd.org).
PhillyBurbs.com: Will other cost-saving deals have effect on Neshaminy talks?
PhillyBurbs.com: Will other cost-saving deals have effect on Neshaminy talks?
Posted using ShareThis
This is the most recent news regarding teachers contracts and concessions in the area. Worth a read.
Posted using ShareThis
This is the most recent news regarding teachers contracts and concessions in the area. Worth a read.
Friday, May 15, 2009
School Board Budget
The Proposed Final Budget was presented to the school district's board of directors on May 13th, 2009. As reported in the paper the average increase will be $90 a house hold. The thing everyone needs to remember this is the AVERAGE based on a home with an assessed value of $22,000. There are many homes in Bensalem that will fall above, and below, the $90 presented.
To find out more details of the proposed budget, please go to www.bensalemsd.org. I would also like to thank everyone at the distric office for honoring my request to post the budget online. I know it is not easy to get to the district office to view the numbers, especially if you work.
Helpful links:
Online version of the budget
Presentation from the board meeting on May 13th
Commentary by Mr. Jack Myers, Business Manager
To find out more details of the proposed budget, please go to www.bensalemsd.org. I would also like to thank everyone at the distric office for honoring my request to post the budget online. I know it is not easy to get to the district office to view the numbers, especially if you work.
Helpful links:
Online version of the budget
Presentation from the board meeting on May 13th
Commentary by Mr. Jack Myers, Business Manager
Eddington Drainage Project
The plan to ease the flooding in the Eddington section of Bensalem was shared with the community on Monday, March 30th, 2009, at the Cornwells Elementary School. The plan includes the construction of a drainage basin that would be located on School District property adjacent to the Cornwells Elementary School. The highlights of the meeting are as follows:Click here for a larger image of the concept plan.
- The Township would like to obtain 8 acres of this property from the School District with 3.5 acres of this making up the actual drainage basin.
- The drainage basin would be up to 10 feet deep and hold 800,000-900,000 cubic feet of water. It would be surrounded by a 6-10 foot chain link fence with an access gate at the furthest point from the school.
- There are many different types of drainage basins. The proposed basin would be a dry bed basin which would NOT hold water after the rainwater has drained out of the basin. By having a dry bottom basin, as opposed to a drainage pond, there would be less chance for mosquitoes to breed. The basin would within 72-96 hours (maximum) as per environmental regulations set by the state. A dry bottom basin is also more cost efficient.
- The basin and surrounding area would be the responsibility of the Township. They already operate various basins around the township. All of the basins are inspected to make sure they operate properly.
- The basin would help to filter the water. The Township comes out to clean the basins on a regular basis.
- There is currently a basin on the property which aides in the drainage from the school and parking lots. This new basin would be built to incorporate the basin which is currently next to the school.
- The basin would be tied into a future storm water system for the Eddington neighborhood.
- This would help alieve flooding for approximately 900 homes. The pipe draining into the basin would have a gate at the end to prevent any large objects from backing into the pipe.
- If the school district agrees to the proposal, the total acreage may need to be adjusted down to 7.7 acres. There is a possibility that the district needs to maintain a total of 16 acres for the school. The current acreage for the Cornwells Elementary School is 23.7 acres. District officials are looking into what the total acreage needs to be. If the district owned the property and did not use Plan Con funds to procure the property, there is no minimum required acreage.
- One member of the school board made a comment that this is already a "done deal" and was wondering why planning was being done prior to approval by the School Board. This is in NO WAY a "done deal". The School Board members still need to further discuss the proposal and vote on the outcome. Also, if there were no plans done to determine the viability of using this space, it would waste everyone's time. It would not make sense for the Township to come to the School Board with this proposal without and plans. How would questions be answered without planning?
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