Lewisburg Area School District Student Handbooks

Disclaimer

Neither this handbook nor any part of it should be construed as a contract itself. This handbook is not intended to be comprehensive and is advisory only to guide students, parents, faculty, and staff. The District reserves the right to make changes or exception to statements in this handbook. Final interpretation of all school rules and regulations is left to the principal of the each building.

Mission Statement

We Belong. We Explore. We Learn.

Vision Statement

The Lewisburg Area School District is a learning community cultivating inclusive environments, empowering effective educators, and providing valuable resources for all students to BELONG, EXPLORE, and LEARN.

Helpful Policy Resources

Below are some of the most helpful district policies for students and families to be aware of throughout the school year. These policies cover key topics that support a safe, respectful, and successful school environment. For a full list of all school district policies, please visit our LASD BoardDocs site.

Acceptable Use of Internet, Computers, and Network Resources (Policy 815)

Alcohol and Controlled Substances/Paraphernalia (Policy 227)

Accident Insurance (Policy 211)

Administration of Asthma Inhalers/Epinephrine Auto-Injectors (Policy 210.2) 

Assessments (Policy 127)

Attendance (Policy 204)

Bags and Backpacks (Policy 226 - Searches)

Bullying/Cyberbullying (Policy 249)

Busing (Policy 810 - Transportation)  (Policy 810.2 - Video/Audio Recording)

Complaint Procedures (Policy 906)

Counseling Services (Policy 112)

Diabetes Management (Policy 209.2)

Discrimination/Title IX Sexual Harassment Affecting Students (Policy 103)

Dress and Grooming (Policy 225)

Educational Trips - Not School-Sponsored (Policy 204.1)

Electronic Devices (Policy 237)

Food Allergy Management (Policy 209.1)

Gifted Education (Policy 114)

Hazing (Policy 247)

Homelessness & Foster Care (Policy 251)

Immunizations and Communicable Diseases (Policy 203)

Interscholastic Athletics (Policy 123)

Language Instruction Educational Program for English Learners (Policy 138)

Medications (Policy 210)

Promotion, Acceleration, and Retention (Policy 215)

Review of Instructional Materials (Policy 105.1)

Special Education (Policy 113)

Student Assistance Program (Policy 236)

Student Complaint Process (Policy 219)

Student Discipline (Policy 218)

Student Expression/Dissemination of Materials (Policy 220)

Student Records (Policy 216)

Student's Rights and Responsibilities (Policy 235)

Student Services (Policy 146)

Surveys (Policy 235.1)

Suspension and Expulsion (Policy 233)

Terroristic Threats (Policy 218.2)

Threat Assessment (Policy 236.1)

Tobacco and Vaping Products (Policy 223)

Visitors (Policy 907)

Volunteers (Policy 916)

Weapons (Policy 218.1)

Wellness (Policy 246)

Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP)

As we all know, health insurance can be very expensive. Fortunately, the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, in partnership with the Federal Government, offers a special program called CHIP (Children's Health Insurance Program) for children 18 years of age and younger. This program provides comprehensive health coverage for children who are not eligible for Medical Assistance and not currently enrolled in a private insurance plan.

CHIP includes a wide range of benefits such as doctor visits, well-child checkups, immunizations, emergency and accident care, mental health services, prescription medications, and many other essential health services. It is designed to ensure that every child has access to the care they need to grow up healthy and strong.

Child Internet Protection Act (CIPA) Notification

Access to Inappropriate Material 

To the extent practical, technology protection measures (or “Internet filters”) shall be used to block or filter Internet, or other forms of electronic communications, access to inappropriate information. Specifically, as required by the Children’s Internet Protection Act, blocking shall be applied to visual depictions of material deemed obscene or child pornography, or to any material deemed harmful to minors. Subject to staff supervision, technology protection measures may be disabled for adults or, in the case of minors, minimized only for bona fide research or other lawful purposes.

Inappropriate Network Usage

To the extent practical, steps shall be taken to promote the safety and security of users of the Lewisburg Area School District online computer network when using electronic mail, chat rooms, instant messaging, and other forms of direct electronic communications. Specifically, as required by the Children’s Internet Protection Act, prevention of inappropriate network usage includes: (a) unauthorized access, including so-called ‘hacking,’ and other unlawful activities; and (b) unauthorized disclosure, use, and dissemination of personal identification information regarding minors.

Education, Supervision and Monitoring

It shall be the responsibility of all members of the Lewisburg Area School District staff to educate, supervise and monitor appropriate usage of the online computer network and access to the Internet in accordance with this policy, the Children’s Internet Protection Act, the Neighborhood Children’s Internet Protection Act, and the Protecting Children in the 21st Century Act.

For additional information, please review LASD Policy 815 or contact Mr. Jeremy Long, Network Administrator, at 570-523-3289.

Child Nutrition Notification

The Lewisburg Area School District is committed to supporting student health and academic success by promoting good nutrition, physical activity, and access to healthy meals. In alignment with the Healthy, Hunger-Free Kids Act, the District ensures all students have access to nutritious meals and programs that foster lifelong wellness habits.

Free and Reduced Lunches

The District participates in the National School Lunch Program (NSLP) and the School Breakfast Program (SBP), which provide free or reduced-price meals to students from families who meet income eligibility guidelines.

All families are encouraged to apply. Applications are confidential and may be submitted at any time during the school year. Only one application is needed per household.

To apply:

• Visit our EZMealApp website. 

• Contact the Food Service Department at 570-522-3202 for assistance.

Wellness Program

The Lewisburg Area School District maintains a District Wellness Policy to support the health and well-being of all students. The policy includes goals for:

• Nutrition education

• Physical activity

• School meal standards

• Promotion of healthy lifestyles

The District's Wellness Committee meets regularly to review and guide policy implementation. Parents, staff, students, and community members are welcome to participate.

For additional information on school meals, wellness programs, or how to get involved, please contact Mr. Michael Jones, Director of Student Services at 570-522-3202.

English as Second Language Notification

Parents of currently enrolled ELs must be provided with the following information within 30 days of the start of each school year:

• A notification of their child's continued participation in the LIEP

• A description of the LIEP including its intended benefits for their children and an explanation of its effectiveness

• A notification of their right to refuse services as outlined in this document

• A description of any Title III supplemental services being offered by the LEA

• A notification of their right to refuse Title III supplemental services

For additional information, please reach out to Mr. Vincent Hoover, Assistant Superintendent at 570-522-3264.

Federal Programs Notification

The Lewisburg Area School District conducts educational programming with the support of funds from the federal government including Title I (Schoolwide Programming), Title II (Professional Development),  Title III (Language Instruction for English Learners, and Title IV (Student Support). Please contact your building principal or the Assistant Superintendent, P.O. Box 351, Lewisburg PA 17837, 570-522-3264, for more information regarding these programs.

Harassment Notification

The Lewisburg Area School District is committed to maintaining a safe, respectful, and non-discriminatory educational and work environment for all students, staff, and members of the school community. This commitment includes compliance with federal and state laws that prohibit discrimination and harassment based on sex, including:

• Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972, which prohibits sex-based discrimination in federally funded education programs.

• Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, which prohibits sex-based discrimination in employment.

• The Violence Against Women Reauthorization Act (VAWA) and Clery Act, which require institutions to address and report certain crimes, including sexual violence.

• Applicable Pennsylvania state laws, which prohibit discrimination based on sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, and related characteristics.

The District protects all students, employees, applicants for admission or employment, and others participating in its programs or activities from:

• All forms of sex discrimination, including discrimination based on sex stereotypes, sex characteristics, pregnancy or related conditions, sexual orientation, and gender identity.

• Sex-based harassment, which includes but is not limited to:

  • Quid Pro Quo Harassment: When a school employee conditions an educational benefit or service upon a person's participation in unwelcome sexual conduct.

  • Sexual Misconduct and Violence: Includes sexual assault, dating violence, domestic violence, and stalking, as defined under the Clery Act and VAWA.

  • Hostile Environment Harassment: Unwelcome sex-based conduct that is, based on the totality of circumstances, both subjectively and objectively offensive, and so severe or pervasive that it limits or denies a person’s ability to participate in or benefit from the District’s educational program or activity.

The Lewisburg Area School District has designated a Title IX Coordinator to oversee compliance with Title IX and related laws, to respond to concerns or reports of sexual harassment, and to coordinate the District’s response in accordance with applicable legal requirements. The District will promptly and equitably respond to all reports of sexual misconduct in order to eliminate the misconduct, prevent its recurrence, and address its effects on individuals and the school community.

For more information or to file a report, contact the Title IX Coordinator at 570-522-3264.

Discrimination/Title IX Sexual Harassment Affecting Students

McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act Annual Notice

In accordance with the McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act, the Lewisburg Area School District is committed to identifying and supporting students who are experiencing homelessness to ensure they have equal access to the same free, appropriate public education as all other children and youth.

Under the McKinney-Vento Act, a child or youth is considered homeless if they lack a fixed, regular, and adequate nighttime residence. This includes, but is not limited to, children and youth who are:

• Living in shelters, motels, hotels, or campgrounds due to lack of alternative accommodations

• Sharing housing with others due to loss of housing, economic hardship, or similar reasons (i.e., “doubled up”)

• Living in cars, parks, public spaces, abandoned buildings, or substandard housing

• Migratory children or unaccompanied youth (those not in the physical custody of a parent or guardian) who meet the above criteria

Students experiencing homelessness are entitled to:

• Immediate school enrollment, even without typically required documentation (e.g., proof of residency, immunizations, school records)

• Attendance at their school of origin (the school last attended when permanently housed or where last enrolled), if it is in their best interest

• Free transportation to and from the school of origin, if requested

• Access to all educational services and programs, including free school meals, Title I services, special education, and gifted support, as needed

• Support for unaccompanied youth, including help enrolling in school and accessing college financial aid

For more information or assistance, review the LASD Policy 251 or contact Mr. Michael Jones, Director of Student Services at 570-523-3220 x 3202.

Non-discrimination Statement

The Lewisburg Area School District's programs are open and available to all students.  The district does not discriminate or prohibit students from participation because of race, color, national origin, religion, sex, handicap, or political affiliations.

 The school district's hiring practices are also non-discriminatory.  The school district is an equal opportunity employer.  In the activities related to employee recruitment and screening, hiring, promotion, demotion, transfer and furlough the non-discrimination policy stated above extends to include age and veteran status.  Inquiries or complaints concerning possible discrimination are to be directed to Mr. Vincent Hoover, who serves as the Title IX and Section 504 officer for the school district.  He will also provide information regarding services, activities and facilities that are accessible and usable for handicapped persons. 

Please call 570-523-3264 for additional information. Publication of this announcement is in accordance with state and federal laws including Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972, Sections 504 of the Rehabilitative Act of 1973 and Title VI of the Civil Rights Act.

Parental Rights

In accordance with federal and state regulations, the Lewisburg Area School District is committed to informing parents and guardians of their rights regarding their child’s education and school experience. The following notices are provided annually at the beginning of each school year:

Curriculum Review
Parents and guardians have the right to inspect instructional materials used as part of the curriculum, excluding assessments and tests, in accordance with LASD District Policy 105.1.

Invasive Physical Examinations and Screenings
Parents and guardians have the right to opt their child out of any non-emergency, invasive physical examinations or screenings that are not required as a condition of attendance. For more information, parents can review LASD Policy 209: Health Examinations/Screenings. 

Surveys
Parents and guardians have the right to inspect any surveys administered by the school and to opt their child out of participation, in accordance with LASD Policy 235.1. 

Assessment Instruments and Data
Parents and guardians have the right to review state assessment instruments and related data, excluding any personally identifiable student information.

Title I Schools – Teacher and Paraprofessional Qualifications
For students attending schools receiving Title I funding (Kelly Elementary), parents and guardians have the right to request information about the qualifications of their child’s teachers and any paraprofessionals providing instructional services.

Violence and Drug Prevention Programs
Schools are required to make reasonable efforts to inform parents and guardians about any violence or drug prevention programs or activities in which students may participate, including the right to opt their child out of such programs.

For more information regarding these rights or to make a request, please contact your child’s building principal or the Assistant Superintendent at 570-522-3264.

Special Education

Annual Notice of Special Education Services and Programs

Lewisburg Area School District is committed to providing a Free Appropriate Public Education (FAPE) to all students with disabilities. In accordance with federal and state regulations, the District must annually inform the public about the availability of special education services and the procedures used to identify, locate, and evaluate students who may be eligible for and in need of special education.

This commitment extends beyond students attending public schools within the District. Lewisburg Area School District also seeks to identify and support children with disabilities who are enrolled in private schools, as well as those who are homeless, wards of the state, or highly transient such as migrant children.

Identification Activities (Child Find)

The Lewisburg Area School District is committed to identifying, locating, and evaluating all students who may need special education services. Building-level teams meet regularly to monitor student progress, address concerns, and implement intervention strategies. These teams consider a variety of information related to academic performance, behavior, speech and language skills, and motor development.

District teachers are trained in referral procedures, and school counselors play a vital role in the Child Find process. Working closely with their colleagues, they help identify students who may require further evaluation and support.

As part of the district’s comprehensive approach, an assessment plan outlines the types of evaluations administered at various grade levels. The results of these assessments are used to identify students who may benefit from additional screening. Based on this analysis, students may be referred to the school psychologist for further achievement evaluations.

Potential Signs of Developmental Delays and Other Risk Factors for Disabilities

Under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Improvement Act (IDEIA), there are 13 categories of disabilities. The following are brief descriptions excerpted from the official definitions:

• Autism: A developmental disability that significantly affects verbal and nonverbal communication and social interaction, typically evident before age three.

• Deaf-Blindness: A combination of hearing and visual impairments.

• Deafness: A severe hearing impairment that affects the processing of linguistic information, with or without amplification.

• Emotional Disturbance: A condition marked by one or more of the following characteristics over a long period and to a significant degree:

  1. 1. 1. 1. Inability to learn not explained by intellectual, sensory, or health factors

           2. Difficulty forming or maintaining relationships

           3. Inappropriate behaviors or feelings

           4. Persistent unhappiness or depression

           5. Physical symptoms or fears linked to personal or school issues

• Hearing Impairment: A hearing loss, whether permanent or fluctuating, that adversely affects educational performance but does not meet the criteria for deafness.

• Intellectual Disability: Significantly below-average intellectual functioning combined with limitations in adaptive behavior, originating during the developmental period.

• Multiple Disabilities: The presence of two or more impairments that create complex educational needs not met by a program for one condition alone.

• Orthopedic Impairment: A severe physical disability that affects educational performance.

• Other Health Impairment: Limited strength, vitality, or alertness—including heightened alertness to stimuli—due to chronic or acute health issues that adversely affect educational performance.

• Specific Learning Disability: A disorder in one or more psychological processes involved in understanding or using language, which may affect listening, thinking, speaking, reading, writing, spelling, or math skills.

• Speech or Language Impairment: A communication disorder (e.g., stuttering, impaired articulation, voice or language issues) that affects educational performance.

• Traumatic Brain Injury: An acquired brain injury caused by external force, resulting in functional or psychosocial impairment that affects learning.

• Visual Impairment (including blindness): A vision impairment, even with correction, that negatively impacts educational performance.

Initiating an Evaluation

Parents who have concerns about their child’s academic, behavioral, or developmental progress and suspect a disability are encouraged to contact their building principal, school guidance counselor, or the Special Education Office to request a screening or evaluation. A written request for a multidisciplinary evaluation is required, and a request form is available through building principals or the LASD Special Education Office.

If you have any questions or would like more information, please contact our Director of Special Education, Mr. Bradly Richmond at 570-522-3277.

Student Privacy Notification

The Protection of Pupil Rights Amendment (PPRA) affords parents of elementary and secondary students certain rights regarding the conduct of surveys, collection and use of information for marketing purposes, and certain physical exams.  These include, but are not limited to, the right to:

• Consent before students are required to submit to a survey that concerns one or more of the following protected areas (“protected information survey”) if the survey is funded in whole or in part by a program of the U.S. Department of Education (ED):

• Political affiliations or beliefs of the student or student’s parent;

• Mental or psychological problems of the student or student’s family;

• Sex behavior or attitudes;

• Illegal, anti-social, self-incriminating, or demeaning behavior;

• Critical appraisals of others with whom respondents have close family relationships;

• Legally recognized privileged relationships, such as with lawyers, doctors, or ministers;

• Religious practices, affiliations, or beliefs of the student or student’s parent; or

• Income, other than as required by law to determine program eligibility. 

• Receive notice and an opportunity to opt a student out of –

• Any other protected information survey, regardless of funding;

• Any non-emergency, invasive physical exam or screening required as a condition of attendance, administered by the school or its agent, and not necessary to protect the immediate health and safety of a student, except for hearing, vision, or scoliosis screenings, or any physical exam or screening permitted or required under State law; and

• Activities involving collection, disclosure, or use of personal information collected from students for marketing or to sell or otherwise distribute the information to others. (This does not apply to the collection, disclosure, or use of personal information collected from students for the exclusive purpose of developing, evaluating, or providing educational products or services for, or to, students or educational institutions.) 

• Inspect, upon request and before administration or use –

• Protected information surveys of students and surveys created by a third party;

• Instruments used to collect personal information from students for any of the above marketing, sales, or other distribution purposes; and

• Instructional material used as part of the educational curriculum.

These rights transfer from the parents to a student who is 18 years old or an emancipated minor under State law.

Lewisburg Area School District has developed and adopted policies, in consultation with parents, regarding these rights, as well as arrangements to protect student privacy in the administration of protected information surveys and the collection, disclosure, or use of personal information for marketing, sales, or other distribution purposes.  Lewisburg Area School District will directly notify parents of these policies at least annually at the start of each school year and after any substantive changes.  

Parents who believe their rights have been violated may file a complaint with: 

                                                  Student Privacy Policy Office

                                                  U.S. Department of Education

                                                  400 Maryland Avenue, SW

                                                  Washington, D.C.  20202