CSD Weekly Update
Friday, June 7th, 2024
FROM THE SUPERINTENDENT
Dear Parents, Guardians, and Community Members,
As we have reached the end of the academic year, I wanted to reflect on the incredible progress and accomplishments our students and staff have made. Despite our challenges, our school community has shown resilience, dedication, and an unwavering commitment to learning.
I am thrilled to share the positive growth our students have demonstrated through our local assessments. We have seen remarkable improvements in student performance. Our students have met and exceeded our expectations, showcasing their abilities to think critically, problem-solve, and apply their knowledge meaningfully. As you are aware, as reported by the state on the PVAAS results last year, 89 percent of the growth measures met or exceeded the state standard. We look forward to receiving this year's results during the Fall semester.
Based on the results from our DIBELS (Dynamic Indicators of Basic Early Literacy Skills), a set of procedures and measures for assessing the acquisition of literacy skills, our K-3 students grew 116 points (34% from the Fall to Spring assessments).
Using IXL Reading, our student's performance is measured in Reading Strategies, Vocabulary, Writing, Grammar, and Mechanics. In 9th and 10th grade, students grew by 31 points (4%) and 13 points (2%). We still have opportunities for improvement in the 11th grade, with a slight decline of 2%.
In reading as measured by our i-Ready assessments, our K-8 students have shown significant progress in i-Ready Diagnostic for Reading assesses six domains (Phonological Awareness, Phonics, High-Frequency Words, Vocabulary, Comprehension of Informational Text, and Comprehension of Literature). Those CSD students grew 132%, surpassing the 100% national mark. In Math, the i-Ready Diagnostic for Math assesses Numbers & Operations/The Number System, Algebra & Algebraic Thinking, Geometry, and Measurement & Data. Our CSD K-8 students grew 115%, 15% beyond the national mark.
What about our 9th-11th grade students? I am glad you asked. Those young people also showed notable increases and opportunities we still have before us as measured by our IXL assessment data.
In Mathematics, we have witnessed a notable increase in our students' Algebraic Thinking and Geometry. Our 9th and 11th graders grew by 96 points (14%) in Algebraic Thinking and 10th graders by 128 points (19%) in geometry.
Moreover, our staff have excelled working with our students using our Multi-tiered Systems of Support (MTSS) model. What does MTSS mean in teaching and learning? As the name implies, this framework has a tiered infrastructure that uses data to help match academic and social-emotional behavior assessment and instructional resources to each student's needs.
These achievements are a testament to the hard work and dedication of our students, teachers, and support staff. Over the past four (4) years as the Superintendent of Schools, I have asked and watched our teachers and staff to learn new curricula, change past practices, and implement new instructional programs, resources, and procedures with fidelity within the goals and guardrails we established. They have gone above and beyond to create an engaging and inclusive learning environment, adapting to the unique needs of our growing and diverse student body, reaching over 50% free & reduced lunch, representing over 50 countries and speaking over 34 languages. Their commitment to providing quality education has been truly inspiring.
I also extend our gratitude to you, our parents and guardians, for your unwavering support and partnership in your child's education. Your involvement, encouragement, and collaboration have been instrumental in fostering a positive learning experience for our students.
As we move forward, we face uncertainty due to the rising cost challenges, resulting in us having to cut approximately $5 million from our budget for next year. We remain committed to building upon these successes and providing our students with the tools and resources they need to thrive academically, socially, and emotionally. We must continue to work together to create a school community that nurtures the potential of every student and prepares them for a bright future.
Thank you for being a part of our school community and for your continued support. I am wishing you an outstanding and safe summer break.
Sincerely,
Dr. Dana T. Bedden, CAA
Superintendent of Schools
Congratulations to the Class of 2024
Dear Class of 2024,
As Superintendent of Centennial School District, it is my distinct honor to congratulate each one of you on reaching this incredible milestone. We celebrate not only your academic achievements but also the resilience, dedication, and perseverance that have brought you to this moment. Your journey has been marked by hard work, growth, and countless memories, all of which have prepared you for the exciting adventures ahead. As you step into the future, remember the lessons learned, the friendships forged, and the dreams that have been nurtured within the halls that you walked. The entire Centennial community is immensely proud of you and confident that you will continue to shine and make a positive impact wherever you go.
Congratulations, Class of 2024! Your future is bright, and we cannot wait to see all that you will accomplish.
William Tennent Class of 2024 Walk to Remember
CENTENNIAL HIGHLIGHTS
ACADEMICS
William Tennent Class of 2024 Dedication
On Friday, May 31, the William Tennent Class of 2024 dedicated their senior class gift to William Tennent High School. Students and staff were welcomed to the Peace Walk Memorial. The theme of the event was Memories and Moments. Many years ago, The Peace Walk Memorial was a simple idea that grew with positive thoughts and actions over time. This year, the initiative took flight on the wings of some very inspiring individuals, our exceptional STRENGTH Club Officers; Giovanna Grassey, Brielle Langford, Mikayla Nye, and Sarah DeFontney.
These ladies explained that their goal was to create a safe space for reflection, healing, inspiration, activity, and community building. With the support of the Class of 2024 and many staff members of WTHS, the Peace Walk Memorial is now open to our school community. The Peace Walk is not just a place. It is the space that has been created in our lives for moments and memories. It recognizes the people that we carry with us in our hearts and those that may be far removed from us. It honors those that are with us now and those we may not know yet. The senior officers also wanted to inspire the underclassmen, the future of WTHS, to continue developing this special area and making it a part of the William Tennent High School Family. In good times and challenging times, this space will represent our ability to come together and support one another, inspire one another, and grow together.
In appreciation of those who lead their school, students also provided peace offerings to some of the staff. At the dedication, Giovanna and Sarah shared, “To our leadership, educators, and supporters: we recognize the service of our staff and understand the amount of effort they put into making our school community a positive and productive environment. We appreciate your kindness & compassion. We are aware of the many sacrifices you make to be with us each day. Mr. Vargas, we would like to honor you and your family by dedicating this tree to your son, Landon “Little Man” Vargas. Dr. Henrich, we would like to honor you and your family by dedicating this bench to your son Isaiah James Henrich.”
Senior officers also invited all seniors to paint Kindness Rocks in the library in the weeks leading up to the dedication. These rocks were also placed in the area during the ceremony. Finally, students offered their gratitude to all who supported the Peace Walk Memorial Initiative, especially the Class of 2024 and the members of the strength club, Mr. Abrahamson and the select choirs, Mrs. Banchi and Mrs. Reach for their continued support and energy for this initiative, our maintenance staff for making all of their wishes come true and in the words of Dr. Henrich, for doing “whatever the girls want.” The students also shared that they truly appreciated the support Dr. Henrich gave them, but most importantly, trusting them throughout this creative process. While the Class of 2024 has graduated and is ready to move on, their impact and legacy will remain for many years to come. Congratulations, seniors! Well done!
Willow Dale's May Students of the Month & Teacher Spotlight
Congratulations to Willow Dale's May students of the month! These students were nominated by their classroom teachers for consistently showing respect and always displaying PAWSOME behavior! To celebrate all of the amazing teachers and staff members here at Willow Dale, we are selecting names at random for our teacher/staff members of the month! From May, we highlighted Mrs. Lapsley, Mr. Markowski, Mrs. O'Leary, Mrs. LaRose, Mrs. Davis, Mrs. Crawford, and Mrs. Mahaffey. Congratulations to our May staff members! We are so thankful for all of your hard work and dedication at Willow Dale. We hope everyone has a PAWSOME summer! See you in August!
A Parent's Guide to Phonics Videos
Looking for more information and a free copy of A Parent’s Guide to Phonics: Understanding How to Help Your Child with Reading and Spelling?
Centennial School District is proud to offer:
follow-up videos on the CSD YouTube Channel
a free book for each family (contact your child’s school office)
Thank you to the CSD Elementary Reading team members who created these videos: Kim Flounders, Miriam Infanti, Dawn Kremer, Lisa Laatsch, Erin Landy, Danyel Masey, Jennifer McArdle, Rose Miele, Kelley O’Leary, and Susan Stackhouse.
ATHLETICS
Interested in Sports in the 24-25 School Year?
How Can I Participate???
Download your PIAA Physical - SECTION 6 OF THE PACKET MUST BE COMPLETED AFTER JUNE 1ST OF THIS YEAR.
DON’T HOLD ON TO IT - It does not matter what season you participate in. Once your paperwork is completed - turn it into the athletic office or email it to Joslin Poole (athletic trainer).
In preparation for the upcoming year, we will begin concussion testing in June. Concussion testing will be held in the cafeteria from 1pm-3pm on the following dates:
Monday 6/10 - Friday 6/14
Monday 6/17 - Friday 6/21
Monday 6/24 - Friday 6/28
Please have your athletes use this link to sign up for a date & time that works for them.
Fall Sports 2024: Fall 2024 Concussion Testing (signupgenius.com)
*These sessions are also open to incoming freshmen who are planning on trying out for your team. Athletes will need to bring their chromebook to complete the test, I will have extra for anyone who needs it. Anyone who is not able to take the test in June will have to get it done in August before the season starts.
Athletes can also begin handing in their PIAA physical form in June. Please let me know if you have any questions.
Do you have any questions???
Feel free to contact the coach for more details regarding try-outs, practices, etc..
THE ARTS
William Tennent Art Unveiling at Fox Chase
Beyond the Canvas has provided a meaningful way to honor the courage, strength, and enduring spirit of those whose lives are impacted by cancer. Four special William Tennent AP artists were chosen to create this year's work which was revealed on June 4th at Fox Chase. This year's program also had its own PR designer in senior Ava Chebruch. Mary Korol, Lily Boyce, Michelle Ortiz and Gisella Fatzinger beautifully captured the stories of Fox Chase cancer patients, caregivers, educators and doctors with their artwork. These works created within the program share stories of hope, family, memories and perseverance. Each of the pieces will find a permanent home on the Fox Chase campus, and the experience these young creatives shared through this event will forever remain an experience of a lifetime. Mr Jayo and Ms Friedant could not be more proud of these incredible students.
Follow our Instagram @ beyondthecanvasfccc and Fox Chase Cancer Center @ foxchase.org/beyond-canvas for more information and to see the growing gallery of artists and muses!
COMMUNITY
Mr. Tennent Highlights
Mr. Tennent 2024 was an amazing success on Friday night, May 31st. Student Government, advised by Eric Goldsman, ran this event for the 22nd year. Congratulations to all of the candidates: Connor Berry, Logan MacGowan, Noah Markowski, Sam Medland, Kirby Mooney, James Niles, Daniel Pacas Sanchez, Brayden Perotti, Vincent Sulpizio and Julio Ybarra.
All ten of the candidates did an outstanding job!
The winner of each category:
Academics: Vince Sulpizio
Athletics: Kirby Mooney
Tee Shirt Sales: Vince Sulpizio
Walkdown: Sam Medland
Talent: Logan MacGowan
Interview: James Niles
Charisma: Logan MacGowan
Audience Favorite: Vince Sulpizio
Congratulations to “Mr. Tennent” 2024, Vincent Sulpizio!
Watch the highlight video below to see a quick snippet of this wonderful evening!
FREE FAMILY LITERACY CLASSES FOR ESL FAMILIES
What is Family Literacy?
Vita’s Family Literacy classes help ESL parents gain literacy and parenting skills to help their children succeed in school.
Who Can Join?
ESL parents with at least one child ages birth to 8 years old
What happens in Class?
Adult Education (ESL instruction), parenting education, literacy activities for parents and children
When and Where?
Classes start in July, end – mid August. Morning or afternoon sessions (depending on level).
Combination of in-person and Zoom classes.
Centennial Administration Bldg.
48 Swan Way, Warminster, PA 18974
Call 215-441-6000 Ext. 11085 and leave a message in English, Spanish, Russian or Ukrainian with your name and phone number. We will call you back to discuss eligibility and schedule an appointment.
Department of Environmental Protection: Alternative Fuel Vehicle Rebate Program
Who May Apply: Pennsylvania residents whose total household income is above 400 percent of the Federal Income Poverty Level.
Use: This program provides a rebate to Pennsylvanians who purchase or lease alternative fuel vehicles.
Funds: Rebates vary depending on the type of vehicle purchased.
Application Deadline: Applications will be accepted and evaluated on a first come, first served basis as long as funds remain available. Please note applications must be received within six months of the date of the vehicle purchase.
More information: DEP Website
Walk-In Wednesdays
On the second Wednesday of every month, we welcome you to stop in and speak with a Human Resources representative about exciting employment opportunities in the Centennial School District. The next open-door event will take place at the District Administration Building located at 48 Swan Way, Warminster, PA on Wednesday, June 12, 2024 between 8 am-12 pm.
FOOD AND NUTRITION
CSD IN THE NEWS
DOWNLOAD THE CENTENNIAL APP
The Centennial Chatbot is on the CSD App!
The Centennial Chatbot, accessible on all School and Administrative websites, offering around-the-clock guidance to vital information, is now accessible through the district's App! This development is thrilling and contributes to our ongoing efforts to enhance communication and engagement within the CSD community.
If you haven't downloaded the CSD App yet, now is the time! It's everything, Centennial, in your pocket. With the CSD App, you can easily access documents, events, news updates, and even emergency notifications from your smartphone.
Download for Android: https://bit.ly/3zbwGO8
Download for iPhone: https://apple.co/40D838D
ATTENTION VOLUNTEERS
IMPORTANT LINKS
IMPORTANT UPCOMING DATES
June
June 11: CSD School Board Meeting, 7:00 pm
June 25: CSD School Board Meeting, 7:00 pm
July
July 4: All Schools & Offices Closed (4th of July)
August
August 26: Grs. K-12 Inservice - Convocation/Building Day
August 26: Kindergarten Orientation
August 27: Grs. K-12 Inservice - Professional Learning
August 28: First Day for Students, Grades K-12
August 30: All Schools Closed/Offices Open
For the Full Calendar Click HERE.
UPCOMING SCHOOL BOARD MEETING
(Back row from left to right): Mr. Flemming Godiksen (Vice President), Mr. Mark Gindhart (Assistant Secretary), Dr. Kathleen Maguire, Mr. Michael Hartline (Front row from left to right): Mrs. Jane Schrader Lynch; Mrs. Patti Crossan; Dr. Dana T. Bedden (Superintendent), Mr. Tony Sadowski, Mrs. Mary Alice Brancato (President), Mr. Charles H. Martin not pictured.
CSD Budget Work Session School Board Meeting
- This meeting is public and can be viewed on the CSD Cable Stations or via the CSD Website or YouTube Channel.
- Click HERE for CSD Public Comment Procedure.
Tuesday, Jun 11, 2024, 07:00 PM
48 Swan Way, Warminster, PA, USA
EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES
Start Your Career at Centennial!
Please spread the word that Centennial School District is hiring:
If you know anyone who would be interested in these positions, please have them apply. We offer competitive rates, excellent perks, and benefits, including a pension. For questions, please call 215-441-6000, Ext. 11034.
Please check out our employment website for a complete list of vacancies. https://www.centennialsd.org/employment
Now Hiring Substitutes
Have you ever considered a job in education? Do you need a flexible work schedule? Why not try substituting?
Open Opportunities:
- Daily Substitute Teachers
- Long-term and Building Substitute Teachers
- Paraprofessionals (Instructional Aides and Personal Care Assistants)
CENTENNIAL EDUCATION FOUNDATION
COMMUNITY EVENTS
WT Soccer Camp
The William Tennent Boys Soccer Program is excited to host its annual youth soccer camp which is open to all players entering 1st through 8th grades in the fall. Please see the details of the camp on the flyer and scan the QR code to register. Proceeds will directly support the WT Soccer program. Thank you for the support!
A Child's Place 2024-2025 School Year
CENTENNIAL SCHOOL DISTRICT eFOLDER
Each year, more and more people and organizations are turning to our District to help get the message out about various activities, events, fundraisers, etc. The intent of this process is to support student achievement and to provide mutual assistance and benefit through shared information. Our district spends a great deal of time collecting, reviewing, and posting flyers to the District eFolder. The District no longer is posting eFlyers to any social media outlets or the District cable channel. You may refer to Policy 913 for additional information.
Please click on this link to connect with all the community eFlyers of the month
Centennial School District
Website: www.centennialsd.org
Location: 48 Swan Way, Warminster, PA, USA
Phone: (215) 441-6000
Facebook: facebook.com/centennialsd
Twitter: @Centennial_SD