Northwestern School District • 100 Harthan Way, Albion PA 16401 • 814.756.9400
Home of the Wildcats • Mr. John Hansen, Superintendent
Northwestern High School • Northwestern Middle School • Northwestern Elementary • Springfield Elementary
Last updated: Thursday, January 14, 2021 at 11:00am
The Northwestern School District Board of Directors will hold their voting meeting on Tuesday, January 19, 2021 in the District Office conference room. Public can listen/view the meeting, beginning at 7:00pm via this YouTube link, https://youtu.be/Il5obGZkyyE.
These fine Wildcats are representing Northwestern High School by participating in PMEA District Chorus 2021. Though the event has been reduced to a virtual audition process this year, the students are to be commended for their hard work and dedication to our choral program. Results will be calculated soon, and we are hopeful that our talented students will advance to the regional event.
Raeleigh Black, Trevor Eggert, Lucas Johnson, Nathan Johnson, Aeden Pollick, Elliot Swanson and Anthony Valletta, we are proud of you!
We are pleased to share information regarding the Rising K Program operated by Mercyhurst University at both Northwestern and Springfield Elementary. The full day program with limited enrollment will begin February 17 for students entering kindergarten in the Fall of 2021.
Interested families can complete the registration via the link below and will then receive an email with necessary documentation to drop off at the school office.
The sixth grade teachers would like to recognize Hannah Adams and Alexander Lincoln as being the first recipients this year for Outstanding Student of the Month. We recognize that this year has brought unique challenges but Hannah and Alexander have continued to display an incredible work ethic through their excellent attendance, class participation, and positive attitudes.
Each recipient was awarded with a certificate and small gift. Congratulations Hannah & Alexander!
Northwestern Middle School students participated in a hands-on physical education lesson this week. They enjoyed the opportunity to utilize new golf equipment by practicing their putting skills. We strive to give them opportunities to experience activities that may foster a lifelong interest.
Per PDE's requirements, you can review the district's Health and Safety Plan regarding the return to school for the 2020-21 school year HERE. The plan was board approved on July 20, 2020 and then revised and approved on October 19, 2020.
NWSD Resocialization of Sports Plan (approved June 22, 2020)
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In an effort to keep the students and staff as safe and healthy as possible, please remember that it is crucial to report any COVID-related illness in your household to either of the pandemic coordinators.
Mr. John Hansen at jhansen@nwsd.org or call 814-756-9400x4220
Mrs. Christina Costello at ccostello@nwsd.org or call 814-756-9400x4351
January 2021 Menus for Remote Students
NWSD_REMOTE MEALS MENU Jan2021.pdfTHANK YOU!
January is designated as School Director Recognition Month. NWSD is fortunate to have nine amazing volunteers to serve in this often times, thankless role. If you see any of these smiling faces out and about in our community, please take a moment to offer your thanks for the hours they devote to our district. The group as a whole has volunteered their time for a total of 51 years as a Northwestern School District School Director. Kudos to all of you for your dedication to NW!
Mark Swanson-Board President
Kevin Saxton-Board Vice President
Kristy Bolte
Peggy Kemling
Stephanie Patrick
Shelly Rice
Sam Ring
Leslie Soltis
Jennifer Webb
The Northwestern School District Board of Directors approved a revised calendar for the 2020-2021 school year.
2020-2021 Calendar-REVISED.pdfGuidelines for Determining Instruction Model/Building Closures during Moderate & Substantial Levels of Community Transmission
Level of Community Transmission All Schools.pdf2020-2021 Flexible Instruction Days
Flexible Instruction Days.pdf
Mr. Wheeler, Northwestern Elementary music teacher, is shown below with one of his trombone players today (Claralee Johnson) during her 5th grade band lesson. All band students have been getting weekly band lesson videos which is the same content they would have received if they were face to face. They've been sending progress videos to Mr. Wheeler via Flipgrid, and he responds with feedback giving them suggestions on how they might improve. Mr. Wheeler decided to also offer individual band lessons to his 5th graders via Google Meet (like Zoom) and had 100% of them sign up and they are making great progress! Music is alive and well at NWE!
12.8.2020-IMPORTANT MESSAGE ABOUT SHIFT TO REMOTE LEARNING
Regardless of how hard we have worked to keep our students in some face-to-face education, we have reached a level of community, and school transmission which no longer allows us to remain in our hybrid model. We currently have 11 confirmed positive cases of COVID-19 among our students and staff. Additionally, we are awaiting test results on approximately 30 other students and staff who are symptomatic, and currently being quarantined. In the last week alone, the district has 102 students and staff currently being quarantined.
Based on the PA Department of Education's new guidelines, beginning tomorrow, 12/9/2020, and continuing through 12/22/2020, we will be moving our educational model to fully remote. As of today, we plan to return to our hybrid model on Monday, January 4, 2021.
During the next few weeks, we will continue to monitor all of our cases, and will continue to inform all of our stakeholders of any changes. Please continue to reach out to myself at (814) 756-9400, ext. 4220, or Christina Costello at (814) 756-9400, ext. 4351, with any information regarding possible COVID-positive cases within your family. Please continue to wear masks, socially distance, and avoid any large gatherings. Our hope is to reduce the spread of COVD-19 over the next few weeks, so that we can safely return in January, and continue with our hybrid model.
Thank you,
John Hansen and Christina Costello
NWSD Pandemic Coordinators
COVID-19 Screening Tool for Families (updated 11/6/2020)
COVID Screening Tool Updated Nov2020.pdfWe are pleased to share some wonderful news. Mrs. McKenna, Northwestern Middle School Sixth Grade teacher, received the Golden Apple Award today. She was nominated by one of her former students, Lauren Thorpe. Way to go Mrs. McKenna!
Do you have a student who is struggling with virtual learning?
Check out these helpful tips!
Routine Tips (2).pdfInformation about Free School Meals
School Meals Graphic.pdfInformation regarding the recent update on the mandatory mask order as it pertains to schools. Please click on the following link for answers to some frequently asked questions, FAQ: Universal Face Coverings Order
Elementary Parents--Get Connected to Class Dojo
ClassDojo Instructions.pdfThe NWSD is pleased to share the following information from Camp Fitch regarding camp program options for school-age children for the 2020-2021 school year. Interested families should complete this SURVEY as the first step.
Return to School Update as of 8.6.2020
After a thorough review of parent and staff feedback, along with careful consideration of the best possible choice regarding safety AND education, the NWSD Board of Directors and administration are pleased to share the following information regarding the hybrid schedules for the start of the 2020-2021SY (First student day will be Tuesday, August 25th).
Please remember that the district may be forced to adjust these plans before or during the school year as conditions change surrounding COVID-19. Families and staff will continue to be updated in a timely manner.
What is Synchronous Learning?
Synchronous learning is the kind of learning that happens in real time. This means that the student, the classmates, and the instructor interact in a specific virtual place, through a specific online medium, at a specific time. In other words, it’s not exactly anywhere, anyhow, anytime. Methods of synchronous online learning include video conferencing, teleconferencing, live chatting, and live-streaming lectures.
What is Asynchronous Learning?
Asynchronous learning happens on the students schedule. While the course of study (instructor) will provide materials for reading, lectures for viewing, assignments for completing, and exams for evaluation, the student has the ability to access and satisfy these requirements within a flexible time frame. Methods of asynchronous online learning include self-guided lesson modules, streaming video content, virtual libraries, posted lecture notes, and exchanges across discussion boards or social media platforms.
To obtain enrollment information for NWSD Remote Learning, please contact Chris Haskins at chaskins@nwsd.org.
To obtain enrollment information for Full-Time Cyber (WVLI), please click on this link .
Wildcat Virtual Learning Institute (WVLI) is an extension of Northwestern School District. WVLI is open to all Northwestern students and offers accommodations and Individualized Education Plans (IEPs) for special education students. Virtual Learning follows an instructional model that is similar to homeschooling. Students are required to log attendance every day, submit assignments, attend online lessons, and complete the state mandatory testings. The curriculum is developed to suit individual student learning styles and varying academic levels while meeting PA State Standards. Upon acceptance into WVLI, students will be provided with all of the materials needed to succeed including a laptop, books, workbooks, and other necessary resources. In addition, students will have access to tutoring, access to district teachers, and NW clubs/activities.
All of our classes are designed to help prepare students for the next chapter of their lives, whether it be higher education, trade school, military service, or joining the workforce. If you are thinking of choosing a cyber option, Northwestern would like to partner with your family this year to provide the very best education possible.
If you are interested in more information, please contact Mr. Christopher Haskins, Northwestern School District Cyber School Liaison at CHaskins@nwsd.org.
outdoor facilities reopen Updated.pdfCheck out the latest Facebook post from NWSD
The 2020-2021 preliminary budget for Northwestern School District was approved by the Board of Directors on May 11, 2020. The document is below for public review.
Proposed 20-21 Budget.pdfNWSD Continuity of Education Plan
CoE Plan 4-15-20.pdfPSP Bulletin Mobile Apps.pdfParents, please read...
The attached bulletin is full of important information regarding mobile apps that are available to your children. Please read and take the opportunity to discuss them with your children.
Sharing again as a point of reference - school cancellations and delays
NW School District Guidelines for School Cancellations and Delays.pdfThe Northwestern School District's proposed Comprehensive Plan is currently available for public review at NWSD Comprehensive Plan 9.5.2019.
Certified Day-to-Day Teacher and Emergency Certified Substitutes
If you are interested in working as a substitute teacher for Northwestern School District, please contact Kelly Educational Staffing, at (814) 350-2192. For more information on Kelly Educational Staffing, please see the link below to their website.
The Northwestern School District utilizes substitute teachers in all certification areas from candidates with a Pennsylvania teaching certificate. If you do not have a teaching certificate but have a minimum of a bachelor's degree, you may be eligible to be an emergency certified substitute teacher. You will need proof of a bachelor's degree in any field from an accredited college or university.
Superintendent Evaluation
The Northwestern School District Board of Directors completed the 2019-2020 performance assessment on June 15, 2020.
Mr. John B. Hansen met the agreed upon objective performance standards at a proficient level.
ALiCE Parent Letter.pdfPlease take a moment to read about the updated safety initiative at Northwestern School District.
Career Street Outreach letter to parents.pdfWhat is Career Street? Hopefully your middle school or high school student has talked about this career exploration opportunity. This is your chance to...
Be a part of education
Be a part of workforce development
Be a part of Career Street
The attached letter explains how you or your employer can become involved.
Volunteers play a vital role in our district. As a reminder, our district requires certain clearances from our community members in order to remain in compliance with current laws and regulations. As a general rule, clearances are valid for five (5) years from the date of issuance. Please visit the links listed under Parent Info, Information for School Volunteers, to update your clearances. Feel free to contact the building office or the administration office with any questions or to check on the status of your clearances.
NEW ONLINE SUBMISSION LINK - Transportation Change Form
Recruitment position details.pdfKeystone Smiles CLC-AMERICORPS is currently accepting applications! Positions are available for the 2018-2019 school year at Northwestern Elementary and Springfield Elementary. Click on the brochure (PDF) on the left for details about the program.
Visit the link above to apply.
Annual Notifications of Policies 4.5.2019.pdfCHILD FIND-FERPA Annual.pdfFERPA-Notification of Rights.pdfMission
The Northwestern School District, in partnership with its parents, seeks to instill in its students, high standards for academic scholarship, integrity, leadership, and responsible citizenship.
Vision
Northwestern School District, in partnership with parents and community, will empower students to be successful, responsible citizens whose work ethic and academic skills will prepare them for a continually changing global society.
Shared Values
We believe
...all students can learn, given the appropriate amount of time and instruction.
...a safe and secure environment must be provided for our students and staff.
...lifelong learning is crucial for success.
...students, parents, community, and staff are partners in the educational process.
...students benefit from diverse learning opportunities.
...the Northwestern School District is a community of learners that values every individual.
...utilizing current technology is fundamental and an integral part of learning.
...a comprehensive curriculum is vital for meeting the needs of all students.
...students learn best when they are actively engaged in learning.
...open communication between all members of the Northwestern community is essential.