1. What is the new policy for Graduation/PSSA’s?
In June, 2007, the North Allegheny Board of School Directors passed Policy #3241 regarding High School Graduation Requirements. Embedded in this action is the requirement that all North Allegheny students demonstrate proficient or advanced levels in Math, Reading, and Writing as measured by the Pennsylvania State System of Assessment (PSSA) exam that is given in the spring of their 8th and 11th grade year. In order to assist our students in attaining this goal, we will be instituting a new PSSA Preparation Course for eligible students in grades 9-12 beginning in the fall of 2008. Students who have not demonstrated proficiency on any or all of the subtests in the areas of Math, Reading, or Writing will be required to schedule the PSSA Preparation Course.

2. How will I know if my child will need to take a PSSA Preparation Course?
Each student that scored at Basic or Below Basic level will receive a letter in the mail. If you have questions, contact your child’s counselor.

3. Can I opt out of the class?
If your child does not score at the proficient level on the 8th grade assessment(s), they will be required to schedule and attend the PSSA Preparation Course this year.

4. Will my child be able to graduate if they are basic or below basic? 
In order to be eligible for graduation, a student must demonstrate mastery of the Pennsylvania academic standards on the culminating 11th grade PSSA and/or local assessment aligned to the PA academic standards as designed or selected by the district, or thorough progress monitoring of a student’s individual education plan (IEP).  Mastery shall be deemed as attaining a score of proficient or higher on the 11th grade PSSA or 12th grade PSSA retest or a passing grade in the required PSSA Preparation Course(s).

5. How are teachers helping non-proficient students become proficient? 
During each curriculum review, the academic areas are aligning their curriculum with the state standards.  Therefore, each academic area will be able to cover the material that will help every child be successful on the PSSA’s.  Each of the three academic areas teachers are aware of the students who are Basic or Below.  Each teacher has developed lessons that address the PA standards, and in addition to the lessons, may meet with individual students to address their needs.  Non-proficient students also have an individual learning plan and access to Study Island at school and at home.

6. What is Study Island and how will it help my child to score in the proficient range? 
Study Island is an on-line resource to help students practice/hone their skills in the three subjects for the PSSA’s.  Each student who is Basic or Below was given information on how to access this program.  Teachers have provided students with the opportunity to log on while at school. Students can also use this resource at home.

11. Is there any way to waive out of the PSSA Preparation Course if recommended?
No. 

12. What happens if a student was not a North Allegheny School District student when the test was given in 8th grade?
Those students will be exempt from the class. However, they will need to score at the proficient level on their 11th grade PSSA’s or they will be required to take the class in 12th grade.