Covid-19 District Communications

August 12, 2020

Dear Students and Families,
The Mt. Lebanon School District confirmed today that a student involved in our boys soccer team summer workouts had a positive COVID-19 test result from a test administered on August 9,2020 .  The District is aware, and reminds families, that those who test positive may have been contagious prior to the date the test was administered. 

The individual has not participated in workouts since August 6, 2020.  In consultation with the Allegheny County Health Department (ACHD), in accordance with our Athletics and Activities Health and Safety Plan, we are communicating with our community, particularly those involved in the high school boys soccer team summer workouts, that this positive case has occurred.  Additionally out of an abundance of caution, we are temporarily suspending boys soccer summer workouts through Thursday, August 20, 2020.  

According to the CDC, people with COVID-19 have had a wide range of symptoms reported – ranging from mild symptoms to severe illness. Symptoms may appear 2-14 days after exposure to the virus. People with these symptoms may have COVID-19:

• Fever or chills

• Cough

• Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing

• Fatigue

• Muscle or body aches

• Headache

• New loss of taste or smell

• Sore throat

• Congestion or runny nose

• Nausea or vomiting

• Diarrhea

Should you or your child, particularly those involved in Mt. Lebanon boys soccer summer workouts, experience any of these symptoms, please contact your healthcare provider immediately.

The health and safety of our students and staff is our top priority.  We are committed to following the cleaning protocol and guidance in our Athletics and Activities Health and Safety Plan and direction from the Allegheny County Health Department to ensure we are providing a healthy and safe environment for our student-athletes involved in summer programming.

Sincerely,
John Grogan,
Athletic Director 

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At the August 10, 2020 School Board Discussion Meeting, Dr. Steinhauer's announced his recommendation to open school in a fully Remote mode of instruction for the first 9 weeks of the school year. See below for a transcript of his comments. The School Board will vote on Thursday, August 13. 

August 10, 2020 Superintendent Tim Steinhauer's Recommendation Regarding School Opening (Video)

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Superintendent Tim Steinhauer's Recommendation to the School Board  August 10, 2020

In my 32 years as an educator, I can think of no decision that has weighed more heavily on me, and my team, as this one. To say these past six months have been challenging for all of us would be a gross understatement. 

The question of how to safely reopen schools has kept me awake many nights, an experience I’m sure I share with you as you consider how your family will return to school, how you will return to work, and how the world will return to a new normal. 

It is imperative that we determine the path forward quickly and have the opportunity to fully prepare.

As many of you know, in early April the School District embarked on a path to return to in-person schooling. We established the region's first recovery team and enlisted the help of hundreds of people including teachers, parents, students, administrators, health care professionals and more. 

Every person I know believes the right place for children during normal times is in our buildings, in our classrooms, with our teachers. This is where we are best positioned to expertly address all of their academic, social, emotional, and physical needs through our carefully crafted programs. 

In addition, we recognized that we needed to provide a safe option for students and families who would not be able to return to school for the foreseeable future because of their personal, medical, or specific circumstances.

These were our early goals, and given the COVID environment at the time, my team and I were optimistic that we could follow all of the PDE, CDC, PaDOH, and ACHD guidelines to safely bring students and staff back into our schools, as well as develop a cyber learning academy.

However, in just the past few weeks, we have seen the COVID environment change very quickly.  Just this afternoon, the Pennsylvania Departments of Health and Education finally provided guiding metrics for schools to use when making decisions related to instructional models.  

According to these guidelines, we should be considering either a hybrid or fully remote option. 

Over the past several weeks, we have had more than 150 of our teachers and staff indicate that they may not be able to safely return to an in-person environment. These requests are made based on documented health issues and eligibility under the various leave allowances. 

In addition, the Mt Lebanon Education Association sent our School Board notification of their support for a full remote start to the school year, which was based on their concerns for the safety of their members and community. 

Based on the current COVID situation in our region, the guidance we have received from the Governor, PDE, PADOH, and ACHD, the observations of behaviors and adherence to proper personal safety and hygiene practices, and the many other factors mentioned above, I am recommending that the school district begin the school year with fully remote instruction for all students for the first nine weeks.

Our community has not hesitated in making their perspectives and opinions known. And while I understand and respect the varied opinions in our community, I truly believe that I have the duty to recommend what I believe is the best pathway forward for the safety of our students, their families, faculty and staff. 

What I can assure families is that the fully Remote teaching and learning will be far better than most of the instruction that occurred in the emergency shutdown this spring.  

In our fully remote learning strategy, your child’s teachers will lead their instruction throughout the day. 

I can assure you that our teachers have committed to provide a high quality learning experience similar to what you have experienced in our schools. 

We have obtained the tools, resources, and training to provide a much more robust learning environment for our students.

As a result, and while admittedly not quite as effective as being in the classroom, we believe that this is the best and safest possible way—at least for the first 9 weeks—to provide the quality education to our students which our community expects and deserves. 

This will also allow us to maintain continuity of instruction, without interruption, regardless of the potential impact of COVID.  We have seen the disruption in other districts in the country who opened the schools only to have to close their buildings due to large numbers of infections. 

For our students with the greatest individual educational needs, we are working toward ensuring access to in-person IEP programming. We are carefully considering how to accomplish this while protecting both their health and the health of those who will be working with them.

This recommendation does not come lightly, and I understand the significant challenges many of you will face because of it. I know that this decision relieves some families and frustrates others. However, I believe that the challenges and risks of returning in-person are too great at this time. 

We will continue to work towards reopening in a hybrid or full in-person model when and if conditions allow. 

I know that every recommendation I make, and particularly this one,  impacts the lives of over 5500 students. Beyond the students, I also have a duty to protect the health of our entire school community -  which includes 700+ employees and over 33,000 residents. This is also the community where I live, where I raised my family, and a community that I deeply care about and value. 

 

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August 7,2020

Dear Students and Families,

The Mt. Lebanon School District confirmed tonight that a student involved in our girls volleyball team and boys basketball team summer workouts had a positive COVID-19 test result from a test administered on August 7 and August 5 respectfully.  These individuals have not participated in workouts since August 4, 2020 and July 30, 2020 respectfully.  In consultation with the Allegheny County Health Department (ACHD), in accordance with our Athletics and Activities Health and Safety Plan, we are communicating with our community, particularly those involved in the high school girls volleyball and boys basketball team summer workouts, that this positive case has occurred.  Additionally out of an abundance of caution, we are temporarily suspending both teams summer workouts through Tuesday, August 18, 2020.  

According to the CDC, people with COVID-19 have had a wide range of symptoms reported – ranging from mild symptoms to severe illness. Symptoms may appear 2-14 days after exposure to the virus. People with these symptoms may have COVID-19:

• Fever or chills

• Cough

• Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing

• Fatigue

• Muscle or body aches

• Headache

• New loss of taste or smell

• Sore throat

• Congestion or runny nose

• Nausea or vomiting

• Diarrhea

Should you or your child, particularly those involved in these teams summer workouts, experience any of these symptoms, please contact your healthcare provider immediately.

The health and safety of our students and staff is our top priority.  We are committed to following the cleaning protocol and guidance in our Athletics and Activities Health and Safety Plan and direction from the Allegheny County Health Department to ensure we are providing a healthy and safe environment for our student-athletes involved in summer programming.

Sincerely,

John Grogan
Athletic Director 

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August 6, 2020

Dear Mt. Lebanon Families,

I want to thank you for your patience as we continue to refine our return to learning plans that prioritize the health and safety of our students and staff. I have some important updates to share with our families.

• On Monday, August 10, at 7:30 p.m., the Board will discuss the instructional delivery options for the District’s reopening. The Board Discussion meeting will be held via Zoom. Information on how to access the meeting will be available at www.mtlsd.org on Monday morning.   

• The timeline to commit to the Mt. Lebanon Cyber Learning Academy will remain open until the School Board has confirmed a decision on the return to school. Once that decision is publicly voted on, the process will close at 4 pm the following day.  Here is the link to the Cyber Academy Form.

I also want to thank you for sharing your feedback regarding our Health and Safety Plan and our Reopening Education Plan. We have updated our FAQ with answers to the questions that have been asked most frequently over the past few weeks. 

I realize these are difficult and trying times for families.  I am grateful to be part of a community that recognizes the importance of carefully planning for the health and safety of our students and staff.  

Sincerely,

Dr. Timothy Steinhauer

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August 4, 2020

Dear Students and Families,

The Mt. Lebanon School District confirmed last night that a student involved in our football team and girls soccer team summer workouts had a positive COVID-19 test result from a test administered on July 31, 2020 and August 1, 2020, respectively.  These individuals have not participated in workouts since July 30, 2020.  In consultation with the Allegheny County Health Department (ACHD), in accordance with our Athletics and Activities Health and Safety Plan, we are communicating with our community, particularly those involved in the high school football and girls soccer team summer workouts, that this positive case has occurred.  Additionally out of an abundance of caution, we are temporarily suspending both teams summer workouts through Thursday, August 13, 2020.  

According to the CDC, people with COVID-19 have had a wide range of symptoms reported – ranging from mild symptoms to severe illness. Symptoms may appear 2-14 days after exposure to the virus. People with these symptoms may have COVID-19:

• Fever or chills

• Cough

• Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing

• Fatigue

• Muscle or body aches

• Headache

• New loss of taste or smell

• Sore throat

• Congestion or runny nose

• Nausea or vomiting

• Diarrhea

Should you or your child, particularly those involved in these teams summer workouts, experience any of these symptoms, please contact your healthcare provider immediately.

The health and safety of our students and staff is our top priority.  We are committed to following the cleaning protocol and guidance in our Athletics and Activities Health and Safety Plan and direction from the Allegheny County Health Department to ensure we are providing a healthy and safe environment for our student-athletes involved in summer programming.

Sincerely,
John Grogan
Athletic Director 

July 30, 2020

Dear Parents and Students,

The Mt. Lebanon School District confirmed last night that a student involved in our summer boys soccer team workouts received a positive COVID-19 test result from a test administered on July 23, 2020.  This individual has not participated in workouts since July 21, 2020.  In consultation with the Allegheny County Health Department (ACHD), in accordance with our Athletics and Activities Health and Safety Plan, we are communicating with our community, particularly those involved in the high school boys soccer team summer workouts, that this positive case has occurred.  Additionally out of an abundance of caution, we are temporarily suspending the boys soccer team summer workouts through Tuesday, August 4, 2020.  

According to the CDC, people with COVID-19 have had a wide range of symptoms reported – ranging from mild symptoms to severe illness. Symptoms may appear 2-14 days after exposure to the virus. People with these symptoms may have COVID-19:

• Fever or chills

• Cough

• Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing

• Fatigue

• Muscle or body aches

• Headache

• New loss of taste or smell

• Sore throat

• Congestion or runny nose

• Nausea or vomiting

• Diarrhea

Should you or your child, particularly those involved in the high school boys soccer team summer workouts, experience any of these symptoms, please contact your healthcare provider immediately.

The health and safety of our students and staff is our top priority.  We are committed to following the cleaning protocol and guidance in our Athletics and Activities Health and Safety Plan and direction from the Allegheny County Health Department to ensure we are providing a healthy and safe environment for our student-athletes involved in summer programming.

Sincerely,

John Grogan
Athletic Director  

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July 28, 2020

Dr. Steinhauer sent emails to staff and families on July 27 about the draft plans for returning to school next month. More information can be found on the  Return to School 2020-21 section of the website. 

Special Board Meeting on July 29 - A Special Meeting of the Mt. Lebanon Board of School Directors will be held on Wednesday, July 29, 2020, at 7:00 p.m. for consideration of approval of the Health and Safety Plan.  To prevent the spread of COVID-19 (coronavirus), the meeting will be held remotely via Zoom webinar and/or conference call. All members of the public who wish to participate should go to www.mtlsd.org/schoolboard or the School District’s television channel on or before Wednesday, July 29, 2020, for details to join the webinar or to call in.

Special Presentation for Parents on July 30 - A  special presentation of the draft Reopening Education Plan for families of students will be held virtually on Thursday, July 30, 2020 at 1:15 p.m. Information on how to access the Zoom meeting is at the bottom of the page.

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Dear Families, 

This afternoon the District published important information to the District website regarding the updated Health & Safety Plan and a draft Reopening Education Plan. 

Updated Health & Safety Plan

 Reopening Education web pages. 

On Wednesday night, the School Board will consider for approval the updated Health & Safety Plan.  As required by the Department of Education, this Plan’s approval is necessary for the In Person return to school of students at any time during the 2020-2021 school year. The approval of the Plan by the School Board does not dictate the manner in which students return to school.  

The draft Reopening Education Plan gives more specific information regarding the manner in which students could return to school: In Person Instruction, Hybrid Instruction, Remote Instruction, and the Mt. Lebanon Cyber Learning Academy. In August, the School Board will determine the manner in which students return to school. 

The MTLSD website is the best way to review relevant and up-to-date information. The District will continue to update the website as more information becomes available. 

In addition to the presentation at the School Board meeting, a  presentation of the draft Reopening Education Plan for families of students will be held virtually on Thursday, July 30, 2020 at 1:15 p.m. Information on how to access the Zoom meeting is at the bottom of this letter.

Sincerely,
Timothy J. Steinhauer
Superintendent of Schools

By Computer:

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83583528212

By Phone:

(301) 715 8592

(312) 626 6799

(646) 876 9923

(253) 215 8782

(346) 248 7799

(408) 638 0968

(669) 900 6833

Webinar ID: 835 8352 8212

 

 

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July 23, 2020

Below is a transcript of a video message that Dr. Steinhauer recorded this morning and shared with families and staff.   

Dr. Steinhauer Video Message July 23, 2020

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Our current environment is not a simple one - the issues that we are all wrestling with are complex, dynamic, and fluid. 

But one thing is certain - the Mt. Lebanon School District will begin teaching and learning in the fall.  

Today I want to give you a clear and concise overview of two important elements of our effort to get back to school: (1) our Health and Safety Plan and our (2) Reopening Education Plan.  

Let me first thank everyone who provided written feedback to the school board and administration following our presentation of the health and safety plan framework last week. Whether it was on our questionnaires or through email, we read every single one. You were heard, and your comments have led to a greater understanding of your concerns and perspectives. 

As we move closer to the beginning of the new school year, I know there is a growing sense of concern across our school community, and throughout communities in the Commonwealth. It’s this critical question: What’s the best way to return to teaching and learning safely?

Is it a return to our brick and mortar schools or return in a fully on-line environment or is it something in between? Uncertainty and ambiguity define our lives right now while information and guidance is emerging rapidly. The COVID environment today will be different from the COVID environment tomorrow or next week or even next month. 

I want to start with our Health and Safety Plan.

The framework provided in our Health and Safety Plan is just that - a framework from which we will determine how education will look if and when we return in-person. 

The Health and Safety Plan Framework was guided by input from over 100 teachers, custodians, secretaries, parents, principals, nurses, counselors, students, transportation providers, administrators, and school board members. 

In addition, our plan was created with consultation from the Allegheny County Health Department to carefully align to Allegheny County and Pennsylvania Department of Health guidelines, and has been reviewed by our school physician and a team from St. Clair Hospital.

Be assured that the Health and Safety Plan will guide our mitigation efforts if and when we return to in-school and  in-person learning. 

Next, I’d like to discuss our Reopening Education Plan

Our Reopening Education Plan gives further details of the options and strategies that may be used for instruction and learning. As circumstances permit, our families will have multiple choices based upon the specific conditions at the time of reopening. 

These options include: 

1. Full, five-day, in-building, in-the-classroom learning experience, with careful adherence to all the health and safety guidelines.

This means utilizing every mitigation strategy as outlined in our Health and Safety Plan including face coverings, cleaning, adherence to physical distancing, and every other strategy to limit exposure. 

2. Full on-line learning program - we’re calling this the Mt. Lebanon Cyber Learning Academy. 

The Mt. Lebanon Cyber Learning Academy offers families the choice for full-time, fully online instruction delivered by Mt. Lebanon teachers. Mt. Lebanon teachers will provide online instruction employing standards based curriculum from Edgenuity - a proven source of online curriculum. Mt. Lebanon teachers will customize the courses by adding and editing resources, strategies, vidoes, and assessments to reflect Mt. Lebanon School District learning standards. Additionally, some courses may need to be created from the ground up using the Edgenuity platform to ensure consistency. In the Cyber Learning Academy, the robust instruction will include both synchronous and asynchronous learning.

3. Hybrid Option

If circumstances require the need for reduced student attendance in our schools, we may need to transition to a hybrid learning environment - meaning a schedule where students have some in-school learning and some on-line learning from home. 

4. If circumstances dictate full closure of all in-school learning, students will transition to a fully remote learning program.
   This fully remote learning program will be a continuation of regular in-class instruction delivered through remote means and will include both synchronous and asynchronous instruction. 

Both a revised Health and Safety Plan and a draft Reopening Education Plan will be available on Monday, July 27th at 3:00 p.m. on our website.  

I know we all start from the same place - the health and safety of our children and staff is sacred. Each family will make the decision that is best for them and that must be respected. 

Whether it is in-person or online, we are still clearly aimed at meeting our mission to provide the best education possible for each and every student. 

There is no doubt that many decisions still need to be made regarding the reopening. The COVID circumstances will dictate our ultimate decision. You should take great comfort in knowing that you have an experienced, highly trained, thoroughly committed, and immensely capable team of educators leading our effort.

Lastly, I have two important updates to share with you: 

1. We have made the decision to delay the start of school for students by one week. Our new start date for students is Monday,  August 31. This will allow for more planning for the return of our students in whatever mode that may be - online, in-person or any plan in between. This will also give us the opportunity to provide more professional development for our high capacity faculty and staff. 

2. We are extending the deadline for the commitment to the Mt. Lebanon Cyber Learning Academy from August 1 to August 8 to give you more detailed descriptions of the program to help you make your decision.

These have been enormously challenging days. I am always grateful for the opportunity to hear from you and the opportunity to share our thinking. 

As I have said before, we have enormous capacity and we are a tough, smart, and resilient community. I believe our best days are just around the corner. 

Sincerely,

Timothy J. Steinhauer
Superintendent of Schools

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Reopening Education Tentative Timeline (more details will be posted Monday)

• July 27 - The revised Health and Safety Plan and draft Reopening Education Plan will be posted on the District website.

• July 29 - Faculty and Staff will be presented an overview of the draft Reopening Education Plan 

• July 29 - The School Board will consider approval of the Health and Safety Plan for if and when students return to in-person instruction at a Special Board Meeting. (Zoom meeting)

• July 30  - Mt. Lebanon Families will be presented an overview of the draft Reopening Education Plan and will be able to submit questions. (Zoom meeting)

• August 8 - Families must submit commitment notification for the Mt. Lebanon Cyber Learning Academy participation. (Mt. Lebanon Cyber Academy Commitment Form)

• August 31 - First day for student instruction. 

June 25, 2020

Dear Mt. Lebanon Families,

I hope you are doing well and enjoying the summer break. Please watch this brief 4 minute video with an update regarding the planning for next school year. 

School Reopening Video Update

Sincerely,
Timothy J. Steinhauer, Ed.D.
Superintendent of Schools

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June 22, 2020

Earlier today, the Mt. Lebanon Board of School Directors approved the District’s Athletic and Activities Health and Safety Plan, allowing our students to return to activities.  Although we are looking forward to welcome our students back on campus starting tomorrow, we know the larger goal is to do this as safely as possible.

The Mt. Lebanon Athletic and Activities Health and Safety Plan considers the necessary precautions and recommendations from the Center for Disease Control, Allegheny County Health Department, Governor’s Office, Pennsylvania Department of Health, Pennsylvania Department of Education, and the Pennsylvania Interscholastic Athletic Association.

At its core, the Plan has three phases which allow for a measured and safe approach to return, and each phase has a health screening requirement for signs and symptoms of COVID-19 prior to any workout.  

Mt. Lebanon School District Athletics & Activities Health and Safety Plan

Mt. Lebanon School District Athletics & Activities Participation Waiver

Mt. Lebanon School District Athletics & Activities Health and Safety Plan School Board Presentation 6. 22.2020

Mt. Lebanon School District Athletics & Activities Health and Safety Plan School Board Meeting (Video) 6.22.2020

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June 16, 2020

Here is an excerpt from Dr. Steinhauer’s Superintendent Report at the June 15, 2020 School Board meeting regarding Educational Recovery: 

We are grateful to have preliminary guidance from the Pennsylvania Department of Education for the Reopening of our schools. This guidance is critical as we continue to develop a roadmap to meeting, and where possible, exceeding all of PDEs and the CDC’s expectations and guidelines before we bring students, faculty, and staff back to our buildings. The health and safety of our school community remains a priority.

The PDE guidance calls on schools to have publicly available health and safety plans that include information about how the schools are coordinating with local public health officials. The plan must include strategies to safely resume in-person instruction, monitor health conditions in the schools, mitigate and contain the virus at schools if it occurs, and communicate accurate and timely information to families, faculty and staff. Schools must reinforce good hygiene and sanitation practices, require face coverings in most circumstances, and implement physical distancing and facility modifications to prevent the spread of the virus. 

Once schools develop strategies to meet these guidelines and the plan has been reviewed and approved by the school board, it can then be submitted to PDE.  

Based on current information and preliminary strategies being created by the Recovery Steering Committee - The Mt. Lebanon School District will focus the majority of our effort in two key areas (1) returning our students to full-time instruction in our buildings in late August and (2) developing a Mt. Lebanon Cyber Learning Academy for those families wanting a fully on-line learning environment.  

By more clearly defining our effort down these two pathways, we will be better able to plan and implement an effective educational program in this short span of time. It will also give our families and staff the opportunity to plan accordingly. 

For the latest updates and information on Mt. Lebanon’s response to the coronavirus pandemic, including extensive information specific for families, faculty and staff, visit https://www.mtlsd.org/district/recovery-steering-committee .

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June 9, 2020

Dear Mt. Lebanon Families,

Last night, Dr. Marybeth Irvin and Dr. Ron Davis gave an update of our on-going efforts to return students and staff to school buildings safely. They presented an overview of progress from the District’s Recovery Steering Committee. 

Here is the link to the video presentation from the June 8, 2020 School Board meeting. Please visit our Recovery Steering Committee page on our website for more information. 

Sincerely,
Timothy J. Steinhauer, Ed.D.
Superintendent of Schools

May 28, 2020

Mt. Lebanon is opening its municipal and school district sport courts, including basketball courts, tennis courts in smaller parks and schools, bocce courts, volleyball courts, athletic fields, tracks and batting cages, by midday Friday, May 29 for individual or household use only. No pickup games or organized team play or practice is permitted. 

PLEASE NOTE: The high school stadium track and turf is under renovation and is not open to the public until further notice. All school and municipal playgrounds remain closed. The Mt. Lebanon Tennis Center is not open yet but preparations are underway to open soon. No date has been released.

COURT AND FIELDS COVID-19 RULES

•STAY HOME IF YOU ARE SICK OR OTHERWISE AT RISK

•INDIVIDUAL/HOUSEHOLD PLAY ONLY - NO PICKUP OR ORGANIZED TEAM PLAY

•RESPECT SOCIAL DISTANCING - DO NOT CONGREGATE

•USE OF FACILITY IS ENTIRELY AT YOUR OWN RISK EVEN WITH MT. LEBANON’S EFFORTS TO PROVIDE A SAFE FACILITY 

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May 22, 2020

Here is a brief video Dr. Steinhauer sent to staff and families on May 22, 20202. 

Friday Video Message From Dr. Steinhauer

 

May 22, 2020

Here is a brief video Dr. Steinhauer sent to staff and families on May 22, 20202. 

Friday Video Message From Dr. Steinhauer

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May 15, 2020

Dear Mt. Lebanon Families,

I hope this email finds you, and all who are important to you, well. 

While we still have a few more weeks of school at home, the work of the District’s Recovery Steering Committee is very focused on preparing for the safe return of our students and staff  for the 2020-2021 school year. While definitive direction from the state has not been received, we must be prepared. 

I want to assure you that all facets of our planning will keep the health and safety of our students and staff at the forefront. We will open our buildings only when we can do so safely. We will rely on the guidance and lead of experts including our local and state public health officials, the state education officials, and the Governor. 

Your input is a very important part of our process. In the coming weeks we intend to collect your feedback to help inform our planning. As always, we are committed to accurate, open, and consistent communication.  We will keep you informed throughout the process. 

There is no doubt that there will be challenges ahead, but we are a strong, resilient, and determined community. Together we will get through this. 

Sincerely,

Timothy J. Steinhauer, Ed.D.
Superintendent of Schools

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May 8, 2020

Here is a brief video message that Dr. Steinhauer sent to staff and families on Friday, May 8, 2020.  

Watch the video here.

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May 1, 2020

Dear Mt. Lebanon Families,

It is important for me to keep you apprised of our efforts to ensure the safety and well-being of our students and staff.  This morning, I convened the first meeting of the very important District Recovery Team. This team, representing all facets of our school community, will lead our efforts in planning for teaching, learning, and activities for the 2020-21 school year. 

Our plans and procedures will always rely on the expert guidance of the Pennsylvania Department of Health, the Allegheny County Health Department and the Pennsylvania Department of Education. Although more questions than answers exist at this time, this critical first step will ensure that we are considering a myriad of possibilities for school in the Fall of 2020. As we have done throughout, we will communicate and update you with information as soon as it becomes available. 

I know with great certainty that we are a strong, resilient, and kind school community.  We have weathered this seminal moment in our history with grace and compassion for each other. You have all done your best to rise to the challenge of managing the fast paced changes, the disappointments, and the uncertainty this pandemic has caused. Your children will thrive as a result of your efforts. 

Our success to date is the result of teamwork. Our administrators, principals, faculty, and staff have worked very hard to continue the school year with meaningful learning. We look forward to welcoming your children back to school in the fall, and rest assured, it will be in a safe and thoughtful way. 

Stay safe and well,

Timothy J. Steinhauer, Ed.D.
Superintendent of Schools

April 24, 2020

Dr. Steinhauer emailed a video message to District families to share his appreciation for the way they have adapted to our new way of instruction and life in general during these challenging times. Click here to watch

 

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April 23, 2020

Good afternoon High School Parents, Guardians, and Students,

I hope this email finds you, and all who are important to you, well!

I know the important topic of the High School Pass/Fail, exempting grades from the QPA has been a point of conversation.  We appreciate and value all of the perspectives you have provided, both through formal and informal means.  Your perspectives help us to be reflective in our decision-making process during these challenging times. 

Three guiding principles led us to the conclusion that using Pass/Fail, exempting grades from the QPA is the best course of action for our students:

Pass/Fail, exempting the grade from the QPA, is a long-standing practice in the District for students with extenuating circumstances, particularly circumstances that result in a modification to the curriculum or assessment strategies used in the classroom. We are in uncertain times where there is without question extenuating circumstances for which our students and families are dealing.  And yes, there are modifications to the curriculum to implement an Essential Curriculum Framework using online and asynchronous instruction which impact the fullness and depth of content covered and assessed.

Equity with respect to all students’ ability to access the instruction, and providing protection to all students, especially those who were unable to access their education, were substantial considerations.  Our District is very conscious of the fact that we had to abruptly stop the teaching and learning process in a brick and mortar school setting and transition quickly to an online environment. Our District is committed to being sensitive to the myriad of economic, health, and other related issues our families are dealing with as a result of this worldwide pandemic.

In order for colleges/universities to normalize applicants, they reconfigure QPA for the individual student in context of their specific admission criteria.  Mt. Lebanon High  School will make a notation on both its transcript and school profile that a P/F, Exempt grading system was implemented for all second semester grades for the 2019-2020 school year due to the COVID-19 pandemic.  This notation will be made for the Classes of 2020, 2021, 2022 and 2023.

The District’s educational leadership team examined a number of approaches, listened to feedback, considered alternative points of view, reviewed and re-reviewed its decision, and ultimately reaffirmed its position.  Attached is an FAQ to help our families who still have questions about our commitment to this approach.

As has always been the case, our school counselors are committed to working directly with your family during this difficult time on any number of issues, and should you need assistance, please do not hesitate to reach out to them. 

As we navigate through these uncertain times, I hope that your family remains healthy and safe.  We are all looking forward to the day that our students will be back in the school building.  Should there be a need to communicate additional information in the future, I will be in touch.  

Sincerely,

Ronald P. Davis, Ed.D.
Assistant Superintendent of Secondary Education

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April 20, 2020

Dear Mt. Lebanon High School Parents,

I hope this email finds you, and all who are important to you, well. 

I know the topics of Pass/Fail for the second semester and calculation of student QPA are important ones. Our school counselors, Department Chairs, faculty, building principals, parents, and central office administrators have thoughtfully considered, reviewed, and reaffirmed our strategy to exempt P/F from the QPA calculation. The Mt. Lebanon School District remains committed to our grading practices and QPA calculations during these challenging times. 

Pass/Fail and exempting QPA are the right course of action. This is the most prudent, responsive, and balanced approach for all of our students. We did not make this decision lightly but rather sincerely believe that the uncharted territory we are now forced to navigate requires us to take these thoughtful, reasonable, and responsible actions. 

We benchmarked our approach against comparators from other top performing high schools in the Commonwealth and believe exempting P/F from the QPA calculation provides the most benefit to all students. We are aware that some neighboring high schools’ calculations look different than ours. We firmly believe that receiving an “A” and all associated QPA points for a “P” (4.0 for Academic, 5.0 for Honors, and 5.5 for Advanced Placement) does not increase student motivation, nor aides them in post-secondary pursuits. After analyzing a number of high school student transcripts that compared exempting the QPA versus awarding QPA points, no student will be negatively impacted by our approach. Normally, each high school has a unique grading calculation to arrive at its QPA which is annually communicated to colleges/universities. This would especially hold true as we deal with this worldwide pandemic.  

In addition, our School Counseling Department has solicited feedback and reviewed information from top tier colleges/universities regarding how they are planning to treat a student’s admission profile.  As you can see in the April Counseling Bulletin, colleges/universities plan to take an informed position about a student’s transcript from this semester.  They recognize that we are in the middle of a global pandemic and education looks strikingly different across our country.  

Thank you for your continued support and understanding. Please contact your school counselor or building principal if you have specific questions regarding your child. 

 

Sincerely,    

Timothy J. Steinhauer, Ed.D.                      Ronald P. Davis, Ed.D.
Superintendent                                             Assistant Superintendent of Secondary Education

 

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April 9, 2020

Dear Parents and Guardians,

On Thursday, April 9, Governor Wolf ordered that all schools remain closed through the remainder of the academic year. While this is difficult news to hear, the health and safety of our community is our highest priority. As the Governor notes, this decision was made in the “best interest of our students, school employees and families.”

Please know that as we move forward we will be doing everything possible to support our students and their families.

S@H will continue to be implemented through the last day of school, June 9, 2020.  

The grading system will remain Pass/Fail. P/F designations will be placed on a student’s transcript and are exempt from a student’s QPA calculation. 

The District’s free breakfast and lunch distribution will continue Monday-Friday from 11:00 a.m.-1:00 p.m. for all children in Mt. Lebanon regardless of the school they attend until the end of the school year

I know that there are many school events that occur in the Spring that are important to students and families.  Our principals are thinking carefully about ways we can recognize and honor students’ milestone events, even if it is through virtual means.  We will continue to update you as our plans evolve.

Even though this announcement comes as a great disappointment to all of us, we are going to get through this. One day we will all be back together in our schools. 

Sincerely,
Timothy J. Steinhauer, Ed.D.
 

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April 2, 2020 3:01 p.m.

Dear Parents and Guardians,

We hope that this email finds you and your families well on your way to a successful week of learning through the District’s Flexible Instructional Day (FID) format. We know this mode of teaching and learning is new for many, so we want to thank you for your patience and understanding as our faculty strive to provide a quality experience for your child. 

As Governor Wolf has ordered, all schools in Pennsylvania remain closed until further notice. 

Monday, April 6 we will transition to the School At Home (S@H) model.  We  would like to provide you with some important information and direct you to the District’s School@Home website where further details can be found. 

S@H will continue with an asynchronous format, meaning students will access their lessons and assignments online but may complete them at different times and locations during the school day.

This Overview page explains our S@H format and general facts about the program.

Additionally, there are pages for S@H Elementary and S@H Secondary that contain information specific and unique to each level. These pages can also be found on each school’s webpage under “Academics.”

Attendance procedures will be slightly different than during FIDs. Please read this information carefully and contact your child’s principal with questions.

There will be opportunities for real time interaction and learning between students, teachers, and support staff. If you do not wish your child to participate in this type of activity, please complete the opt-out form. 

Finally, but most importantly, please know that we view you as a critical partner to the success of our students. We understand that this dramatic change in how we deliver instruction is challenging for families, students, and our staff.  However, we also know that our mutually supportive relationship is invaluable to our students’ learning. We look forward to working with you to provide the best education possible for each and every student.

As always, we are here to serve you. If you have questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact your child’s teachers, principal, or either of us.

Sincerely,
                                        

Marybeth D. Irvin, Ph.D.                Ronald P. Davis, Ed.D.
Assistant Superintendent                    Assistant Superintendent
Elementary Education                    Secondary Education

March 27, 2020 2:23 p.m.

Dear Parents and Guardians,

The health and safety of our students, families, and staff is our utmost priority.  As widely reported, the COVID-19 virus is now present in Allegheny County as well as the Mt. Lebanon community. We are aware that there are family members and friends of our students who are impacted by this illness.  

At this time we would like to remind you of the important safety precautions recommended by our health and wellness experts.  We would also invite you to review the information on the District’s website, particularly those intended to help families discuss this topic with children.  These resources are located at the bottom of this page. 

Please be sure to monitor your own health and that of your family members, and notify your family medical care provider for further direction if needed.

Sincerely,

Timothy J. Steinhauer Ed.D.
Superintendent of Schools
Mt. Lebanon School District

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March 26, 2020 

Dear Parents and Guardians,

As we navigate this constantly evolving situation, please allow us to share some important information and updates.

The District will be implementing Flexible Instructional Days (FIDs) from March 30 through April 3.  More information about FIDs is available below and on our website at this link.

The District will be implementing School at Home (S@H) instruction beginning April 6. School at Home (S@H) is intended to continue the asynchronous nature of delivering instruction while adding a component that facilitates the “continuity of education” expected by the Pennsylvania Department of Education.  More details soon.

Families who need technology devices can still request them through this link. 

The 3rd marking period will conclude on April 7, 2020. Third marking period Report Cards will be available on April 16. 

To reduce academic anxiety and concerns as we transition to at home learning, the District has opted to move to a Pass/Fail (secondary) and Satisfactory/Unsatisfactory (elementary) grading scale for the 3rd and 4th marking periods.  More information can be found below.

The District has made the decision to continue with S@H instruction during Spring Break, April 8 - 13. This decision was made to allow for continuity of education. 

The education of the children in the Mt. Lebanon School District is of critical importance to us. We appreciate your understanding and flexibility as we implement our plans to continue to provide the Best Education Possible for Each and Every Student under these difficult circumstances.  We are thinking of you, your children, and our community, and we know that we will come through this together.

Sincerely,                                           

Marybeth D. Irvin, Ph.D.                Ronald P. Davis, Ed.D.
Assistant Superintende                Assistant Superintendent
Elementary Education                 Secondary Education

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March 25, 2020 1:20 p.m.

Dear Parents and Guardians, 

The school closure implemented due to the COVID-19 virus created a significant disruption to our students’ education. To avoid a further disruption, I am revising the 2019-2020 school calendar in regards to Spring Break. We do not anticipate returning to school before April 14, 2020.

Spring Break was scheduled for April 8, 9, 10 & 13. These days will continue to be at home instructional days. Families who observe religious holidays should plan accordingly to ensure instruction is received and assignments are completed. 

Stay home, stay safe, stay calm.

Sincerely,

Timothy J. Steinhauer, Ed.D.
Superintendent of Schools

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March 23, 2020 4:32 p.m.

Dear Parents and Guardians,

The COVID-19 pandemic continues to be most critical to everything that we do. This afternoon, Governor Wolf ordered a “stay at home order” beginning at 8:00 p.m. this evening. In addition, Governor Wolf further ordered schools to be closed for two more weeks. As of today, schools are closed through at least April 6, 2020. This does not impact our plan to begin Flexible Instructional Days starting Monday, March 30, 2020.

The Governor is only allowing life sustaining activities. As such, our breakfast/lunch distribution will continue from 11:00 a.m.- 1:00 p.m., Monday - Friday at the High School, Entrance C20 on Horsman Drive.

We will continue to update you during this very fluid situation.

Please stay calm, stay home, and stay safe.

Sincerely,

Timothy J. Steinhauer, Ed.D.
Superintendent of Schools

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March 22, 2020 12:08 p.m.

WE NEED YOUR HELP!!  For those that continue to gather in organized groups at our HS stadium and other school grounds. We do not have the capacity to monitor our school grounds as our essential staff are busy doing important work around our buildings. Nor would we ever ask the MLPD to assist with monitoring group sizes on our grounds - they have much more important work to do. 

Please heed the guidelines from the ACHD: “The most important thing you can do to help stop the spread is to stay at home and practice social distancing. What the community is doing today has an impact next week and the week after that so please stay on target. Stay home and continue social distancing. If you are sick, stay at home. Remain separated from others so as not to further spread any virus or disease.”

Thank you for your help with this matter. We are all in this together and we are depending on each other to do their part.

 

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Please Note: The Mt. Lebanon School District will begin home instruction for students beginning March 30, 2020. Buildings will remain closed. No activities or sports will resume. 

Updated March 19, 2020 3:38 p.m.

Dear Parents and Guardians,

First, I want to thank you for your patience, flexibility, and understanding as we navigate the ever changing landscape of the COVID-19 pandemic. Constant and accurate communication of this evolving situation is important to all of us.  

As indicated in my email on March 14, students should prepare to resume learning.  This will occur using the Flexible Instructional Day (FID) model starting Monday, March 30, 2020, pending any other major announcement from the Governor or Secretary of Education. 

The Flexible Instructional Days (FIDs) model will be utilized for the first week, March 30 - April 3.  Should the closure extend beyond April 3, the District is looking to utilize other home learning strategies. We know you may have questions, so rest assured that we will share more detailed information soon.  

The District is revising the end of the 3rd marking period as Tuesday, April 7.  Final grades for this marking period may be delayed as we work through assessment strategies in a FID/online environment.  

Students will be permitted to access their building(s) to retrieve important materials.  Please coordinate access to the building with your building principal. Also we ask that you limit your time in the building and do not interact with others while there.

The District will continue to monitor guidance provided by the Governor’s Office and the Department of  Education as it becomes available. I will update you regarding any future changes to this very fluid situation.

As we make plans to continue educating our students, I hope you are all taking care of yourselves. I know these are stressful and challenging times for families. I am thinking of you, your children, and our community, and I know that we will come through this together. Continue to join me each weekday morning for an update and a mindful moment at https://www.mtlsd.org/district/superintendent/update-and-mindful-moment 

Sincerely,

Timothy J. Steinhauer, Ed.D
Superintendent of Schools

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Updated March 14, 2020 6:30 p.m.

Dear Parents and Guardians,

First, I want to thank you for your patience, flexibility, and understanding as we navigate the ever changing landscape of the COVID-19 pandemic.  Constant and accurate communication of this evolving situation is important to us.  

The District received guidance from the Department of Education late this afternoon with regard to the Governor’s announcement about school closure. This guidance has caused the District to adjust its response.  Effective immediately, there will be no school for the two-week period officially prescribed by the Governor beginning Monday, March 16.  As of this notice, students should prepare to return to school on March 30, 2020. 

Additionally, Flexible Instructional Days (FIDs) will not be utilized during this two-week period. The District will monitor any future guidance provided by the Governor’s Office and the Department of  Education. I will continue to update you regarding any future changes to this very fluid situation.

Technology - At this time we will not be providing technology to families who requested it because we will not be implementing FIDs. 

Food Service - Daily Meals will be available starting Monday, March 16 for those students in need and can be picked up at the High School, Entrance C20 from 11:00 a.m. until 1:00 p.m.

If students need access to the buildings to retrieve important items, they should email their building principal to make arrangements. If you have any questions, please contact your building principal. 

Wash your hands, avoid touching your face, and practice social distancing and self care. 

Thank you all for your continued patience and understanding during this challenging time. We’ll get through this together. 

Sincerely,

Timothy J. Steinhauer Ed.D.

Superintendent of Schools

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Updated March 14, 2020

Dear Parents and Guardians,

Yesterday Governor Wolf ordered all Pennsylvania schools to close for 10 days beginning Monday, March 16, 2020. Prior to his late day announcement, MTLSD had made a strategic decision to ensure the health and safety of our students and staff by developing plans to continue operations during our planned closure from Monday, March 16 until April 14.   As we receive additional guidance and clarification from PDE about the Governor’s announcement, we will reassess our plans and procedures if necessary.  

Monday continues to be a FID day, and if needed I will communicate any modifications to our instructional delivery plans to you on Monday. 

Technology - For those families who previously indicated a need to borrow a device from the District, our Technology Department will communicate directly with you as to how to obtain the device. As a reminder, if a family needs to borrow a device, please complete this link. If you have questions please email FIDSupport@mtlsd.net for assistance. The Mt. Lebanon School District realizes that not every family has access to the Internet at home. Visit this link www.mtlsd.org/InternetAtHome for more information regarding Internet access.

Food Service - Daily Meals will be available starting Monday, March 16 for those students in need and can be picked up at the High School, Entrance C20 from 11:00 a.m. until 1:00 p.m

Thank you for your patience and flexibility as we navigate this very fluid situation.

Sincerely,
Timothy J. Steinhauer,
Superintendent of Schools

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March 13, 2020

Dear Parents and Guardians,

Given the current information available regarding the COVID-19 virus and after careful consideration, the Mt. Lebanon School District is closing schools beginning on Monday, March 16 as a proactive measure.  We are planning to reopen our schools on Tuesday, April 14.  This decision was made out of an abundance of caution to mitigate the spread of the virus and ensure the safety and well-being of our students, faculty, staff and community.  

I take our responsibility to educate the children of Mt. Lebanon seriously, as I consider the impact of this on students and their learning, our families and staff and their personal and professional responsibilities, and the greater Mt. Lebanon community. I realize that this decision will create challenges for many in our school community. Working together, we can address this significant community health crisis. 

At the end of the day, all students will be directed to take home their necessary instructional materials.  In addition, school buildings will be open on Monday, March 16 to allow students and families the opportunity to pick up any necessary items.  

Flexible Instructional Days- We will implement our Flexible Instructional Days protocol on Monday, March 16 for the duration of the closure.  Please refer to this link for more information about the FID process and feel free to contact your child’s teacher(s) and building administration with questions.

District Athletics and Activities - All District activities, including athletics and all outside organization activities are cancelled from March 16 - April 14. 

District Facilities - All District facilities will be closed beginning March 17.  This includes rental groups.  

Technology - For those families who previously indicated a need to borrow a device from the District, our Technology Department will communicate directly with you as to how to obtain the device. As a reminder, if a family needs to borrow a device, please complete this link. If you have questions please email FIDSupport@mtlsd.net for assistance. For internet assistance please visit:  www.mtlsd.org/InternetAtHome

Food Service - Daily Meals will be available starting Monday, March 16 for those students in need and can be picked up at the High School, Entrance C20 from 11:00 a.m. until 1:00 p.m. 

While away from school, we strongly encourage families to follow the guidance and recommendation of the Center for Disease Control (CDC) and the Allegheny County Health Department (ACHD) regarding hygiene and travel.  Students and staff who travel to any Level 2 or Level 3 country, or any area in the United States with a significant outbreak, may be asked to self-quarantine for 14 days before returning to school or work. 

I recognize the significant burden this places on our families, staff, and community but feel this is the appropriate course of action in response to an unprecedented crisis.  We will continue to stay in conversation with county and state officials and will keep you updated. Additional information is always available on our website at www.mtlsd.org/covid-19.

At moments like this we must remember that we set the tone for our children. While this is an extraordinary time, our children look to us for reassurance and calm. I know we will all get through this together. 

Sincerely,
Timothy J. Steinhauer, Ed.D.
Superintendent of Schools

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March 11, 2020

Read the statement below regarding  Mt. Lebanon High School's participation in the PIAA Basketball game tonight. 
March 11, 2020 Statement from Athletic Director John Grogan.

Blue Devil Marching Band
Since the St. Patrick's Day Parade has been canceled in Washington D.C., the High School Band trip is canceled. 

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February 5, 2020

The Pennsylvania Department of Health shared a fact sheet on the CoronaVirus 2019-nCoV. Please take a moment to review this information.

Pennsylvania Department of Health CoronaVirus 2019-nCoV Fact Sheet

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February 4, 2020

CoronaVirus 2019-nCoV Update

The Mt. Lebanon School District's Health Services Department continues to monitor updates from the ACHD and CDC concerning the CoronaVirus 2019-nCoV. Here are the ACHD’s latest recommendations: 

If you or a family member have traveled to or from China within the past 14 days, the following should be done to obtain further recommendations and direction:

•    Contact the Allegheny County Health Department
•    Contact your child's school nurse
•    Contact your primary care physician

January 30, 2020

CoronaVirus 2019-nCoV Update

Reports of a novel (new) virus called CoronaVirus 2019-nCoV, originating in Wuhan, China, have made the news in recent days.  Be reassured that the District is monitoring the situation and the emerging facts about the disease through the Center for Disease Control (CDC), World Health Organization (WHO), and the Allegheny County Health Department (ACHD).  

At this time, there are no cases of this virus in Pittsburgh or Pennsylvania.  Out of an abundance of caution, the CDC and ACHD recommend that anyone who has a fever and cough and has been to Wuhan, China, within the last 14 days should contact their primary care provider.   We will continue to work with these agencies to understand and enact best practices for screening any students who may report with symptoms. The District takes any communicable disease very seriously.

The CDC and ACHD also recommends following best practices to avoid spreading any infection, especially at this time of the year.  If your child is exhibiting contagious symptoms such as:

• Cough
• Fever (100 degrees) or above
• Diarrhea
• Vomiting
• Sore throat
• General not feeling well
• Headache
• Runny Nose

Please keep them home for 24 hours after their symptoms have subsided and discuss with your primary care provider, as needed.  

Please also remind your child:

• Wash hands often with soap and water
• Cover your cough and sneeze
• Dispose of tissues properly and immediately after use
• Avoid contact with anyone exhibiting cold-like symptoms - Stay home when ill
• Get plenty of rest/sleep

Our teachers provide frequent reminders to our students about these prevention methods. Our cleaning procedures are based on best practices to keep our schools safe and healthy throughout the year as well. 

Please contact your family physician if you have questions or concerns.

We will continue to monitor the situation closely and provide updates if changes should occur.  The health and safety of our children is always our top priority.