Alerts

August 31, 2022, via eNewsletter

Dear Mt. Lebanon Families,

Our schools got off to a great start on Monday. I enjoyed seeing our students and staff enthusiastically start the 2022-2023 school year. Our students were excited to meet their teachers and reconnect with friends. I always look forward to seeing the enthusiasm, optimism, and renewed focus they bring on the first day. 

I also wanted to share that after careful consideration and reflection, I have notified the School Board of Directors of my intent to retire at the conclusion of the 2022-2023 school year.  I have been grateful to serve as Superintendent in a community that values and supports public education. I am thankful to have worked with many talented and committed leaders, educators, and School Board members. In addition, our parents have been unparalleled in their involvement, interest, and investment in their children's education. And most importantly, I have cherished the relationships and interactions with our students.  This position has been one of the most demanding but rewarding positions I have ever held. I am abundantly proud of the accomplishments we achieved together. I consider my service as the Mt. Lebanon Superintendent the proud culmination of a 35-year career as a public school educator.  

At the current moment, I am unsure what the future holds for me. I look forward to spending more time with my wife and family, having more flexibility with my time, and am excited to find other ways to contribute to our community. And although there is still much that needs to be accomplished this school year, I plan to enjoy every moment. In the near future, the School Board will identify the executive search process. Rest assured that I will work diligently so that the School District is in a strong position as it transitions to new leadership. 

Thank you Mt. Lebanon for your support during my tenure as Superintendent. It has been my great honor and privilege.

Respectfully,

Timothy J. Steinhauer, Ed.D.

Superintendent of Schools

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August 15, 2022

Dear Families,

As the first day of school approaches on Monday, August 29, 2022, I am optimistic that the coming school year will yield productive, positive, and remarkable outcomes for our students. 

Over the summer, our teachers and administrators have worked carefully to improve and refine our educational programs and experiences, including hiring many remarkable new teachers and staff. In addition, our custodial and facilities staff has worked diligently to prepare the buildings and grounds for the coming school year. 

This year, we will focus on continued academic growth; specifically, the implementation of a new English Language Arts curriculum in our elementary schools, the use of Schoology to assist with organizing and communicating learning, completion of our 1:1 technology project, a renewed emphasis on sustainable practices, school safety, and security, and a continued focus on diversity, equity, and inclusion, to name just a few. These efforts will provide a great learning and growth environment for our students to thrive and succeed. 

We will continue to monitor the COVID-19 environment and will align our plans and actions to recommendations and requirements from local, state, and national health experts. The current plan can be viewed here, but as we have seen over the last several years, COVID conditions can change rapidly, and we will remain flexible and responsive. 

Our administrators, faculty, staff, and I look forward to seeing our students on August 29th. Considering the year ahead, I believe optimism, enthusiasm, and kindness will lead to a successful school year where each and every child is afforded the best education possible. 

Sincerely,

Timothy J. Steinhauer, Ed.D.

Superintendent of Schools

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August 29, 2022

Dear Families,

We have been made aware of a picture circulating on social media which depicts an image of broccoli that seemingly originated from our cafeteria.  Although proper cleaning and handling procedures are followed with our food products, it appears from the picture that a broccoli worm was present on the piece that was served this afternoon.

We have removed all of the broccoli from the serving line, contacted our supplier, and the Allegheny County Health Department.  During our consultation with the Health Department, they assured us that there is no risk to student health. 

We take the utmost care in the preparation of our food.  We will continue to diligently work with our provider and the Health Department on this matter before reintroducing broccoli into the menu. 

Sincerely,

John Saban

Interim Food Service Director

 

September 19, 2022

Dear Families,

Over the coming weeks, each of our buildings will participate in an evacuation drill as part of our school safety and security plan.  Typically, these drills are held one time each school year. 

The purpose of the drill will be to practice moving students from their school to an assigned alternative site in a safe and efficient way.  We are working collaboratively with the Mt. Lebanon Police Department to assist us during each of the drills.  

In the event of an actual emergency and evacuation, students would be released only to a parent/guardian, or individuals identified in the emergency contacts page in the dashboard.  We ask that all families review their emergency contacts in the Dashboard to ensure they are accurate and up to date.  This information is crucial for the school district to have in the event of an emergency where reunification is required.

Thank you in advance for your cooperation and support.  We value the safety and security of our students and believe that this drill is one more example of how we are preparing for unknown situations that may occur in our schools.  

More specific information regarding your student’s drill will be provided by the building principal in the days to follow.

Sincerely,

Timothy J. Steinhauer, Ed.D.

Superintendent of Schools

 

October 24, 2022

Dear Families,

Today, the High School Administration was made aware of a written threat against the high school on social media that was investigated by the Mt. Lebanon Police Department over the weekend.  The person responsible for the posting was identified, and the threat was deemed not credible by the police department following their investigation this weekend.  Although the police determined that the post was made in jest, the District’s policies and procedures on this topic are being applied. 

I want to thank the Mt. Lebanon Police Department for their prompt and thorough investigation of this matter.  The administration, faculty, and staff know that the safety of our students is of the utmost importance to our families, and we value the importance of accurately communicating with families.  Know that we, along with Mt. Lebanon Police Department, take any information we receive seriously and investigate, monitor, and proactively address all reports to ensure necessary measures for our students’ safety. 

At any time should you have information regarding any threat to the safety of our schools and students, please contact the Mt. Lebanon Police Department or your child’s principal.

Sincerely,

Timothy Steinhauer, Ed.D.

Superintendent

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November 1, 2022

Dear Mt. Lebanon School District Families, 

As we approach the cold weather season, I’d like to remind you about our emergency weather procedures. When I make the decision to delay the start of school, close school, or move to remote instruction, it is always with student safety as my primary concern. We know that weather is very unpredictable, and conditions may vary throughout our community. There is no exact amount of snow, temperature, wind chill, or weather condition that dictates when to delay, cancel, or move to remote instruction. Generally, I carefully review multiple weather forecasts, consult with the Mt. Lebanon Police and Fire Departments, gather reports from our plowing crews, and make firsthand observations in some of our neighborhoods to make an informed decision.  

Generally, when school buildings are closed due to weather, all students will learn via remote instruction. However, there may be limited situations where we need to cancel school completely (e.g., loss of power in the community.) These school day(s) will be made up as noted on the District calendar. Students enrolled in Waterfront Asynchronous Learning will continue their instruction according to their typical schedule.

When conditions require a school delay, closing, or remote instruction, you will receive a call or text from our Phone Alert System. Delay, closing, or remote instruction information is also announced on the website at www.mtlsd.org, District social media (Facebook, Twitter), and local cable TV stations. Typically, when school is canceled, after-school and evening activities are canceled, but always check the website for up-to-date information. 

The best way to be alerted to changes in the school schedule is through the District's Phone Alert System. You can receive an automated phone call or text to the primary phone number you have listed in Dashboard. Only one call per family is made. Calls are typically made no later than 10:00 p.m. and no earlier than 6:00 a.m. On rare occasions, I may need to change the decision after 6:00 a.m. due to a significant change in weather conditions. 

Your caller ID will display “Mt. Lebanon School District” and the District’s main number of 412-344-2000. To opt into text alerts and update your preferences, please refer to this Mt. Lebanon SMS Alert Guide. 

The success of this system depends on accurate contact information obtained from school records. If your information has changed, please update your contact information in the Dashboard or ask the building secretary to update your files.

There is always going to be snow, cold, and inclement weather in Western Pennsylvania. There may be days when school will be in session when the roads may be snow-covered, and the temperature is cold. On those days, we all need to walk and drive with caution and make sure that our children are appropriately dressed for the cold weather. As always, please use your best judgment regarding the weather conditions in your neighborhood. 

Thank you for your help and patience during this winter season. 

Sincerely, 

Timothy J. Steinhauer, Ed.D. 

Superintendent of Schools

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November 9, 2022

 

Dear Lincoln Families,

The District is aware of a police incident in the vicinity of the school building. Out of an abundance of caution, we have ended recess and brought all students into the building. Lincoln Elementary School will remain under a “Shelter In Place” until further notice.  We will continue to update you as necessary as the situation develops.

Please do not call the school or attempt to pick up your child at this time.

Thank you for your cooperation in keeping students safe.

Respectfully,

Dr. Ron Kitsko, Principal

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November 9, 2022

Dear Families,

Thank you for your patience during this afternoon’s shelter-in-place protocol.  At 1:48 p.m. the Mt. Lebanon Police Department directed us to lift the shelter-in-place.  Again, I would like to remind you that this was out of an abundance of caution regarding an incident in a neighboring community, and at no time were any students or staff in danger.  

If you have any questions, feel free to contact me directly.

Respectfully,

Dr. Ron Kitsko, Principal

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November 9, 2022

Dear Families,

The Mt. Lebanon Police Department was involved in an incident in a neighboring community at approximately 12:30 p.m. this afternoon.  Out of an abundance of caution, Lincoln and Jefferson Elementary and Middle Schools were directed to enact a “shelter-in-place” building protocol, which means that all students would remain inside the building and all exterior exits remained locked and secured.  Jefferson Elementary and Middle Schools shelter-in-place protocol was lifted briefly thereafter. 

At 1:48 p.m. the Mt. Lebanon Police Department directed us to lift the shelter-in-place at Lincoln Elementary.  

At no point during this afternoon have any students or staff been in danger.  

Sincerely,

Dr. Marybeth Irvin, Assistant Superintendent of Elementary Education

Dr. Ron Davis, Assistant Superintendent of Secondary Education

January 10, 2023

Dear Families,

After careful consideration, the Mt. Lebanon School District is immediately implementing an actual two-hour delay model when a school delay is necessary.  This two-hour delay model is helpful for our families who have students in multiple buildings and also aids in our transportation efforts and campus traffic during the crucial entry period each morning.

In the event of a two-hour delay, the following student arrival times will now be implemented:

High School: 10:00 a.m.

Middle School: 10:00 a.m.

Elementary School: 10:30 a.m.

• AM Kindergarten: 10:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. 

• PM Kindergarten: 1:30 p.m. - 3:30 p.m.

Going forward, you will notice this new delay language on our official announcements. (e.g., text and phone alerts, official District social media accounts, District website, television notifications)

When emergencies, such as weather conditions or power failures require the delay or closing of school, notice is given as early as possible. Additional information regarding such delays and closures can be found in the letter I sent you in November, accessible here.

Sincerely, 

Timothy J. Steinhauer, Ed.D. 

Superintendent of Schools

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January 31, 2023

Dear High School Families,

The High School administration received information about a rumor circulating amongst some students in the high school regarding a student who allegedly planned to bring a weapon to school.  The High School administration has been working cooperatively with the School Resource Officer and the Mt. Lebanon Police Department to investigate this rumor.  The police investigation has determined that the rumor is unsubstantiated. 

Out of an abundance of caution, the Mt. Lebanon Police Department will have an increased presence in and around the High School for the next couple of days.  Additionally, we have advised the staff of the situation, asking them to immediately report any information they may hear or any out-of-the-ordinary student behavior, and be especially visible in the hallways during the change of class, hall/café duty, etc.

The safety of the entire school community is a top priority to us. We value the importance of communicating with you about these types of occurrences and informing you of the precautions being taken regarding this rumor.

Should you have information that substantiates this rumor, please contact the Mt. Lebanon Police Department or the High School administration.

Sincerely,

Joel G. Thompson, Ed.D.

Principal

 

Dear Lincoln Elementary Families,

I am disappointed to inform you that today we found an antisemitic slur written on a personal waste container in a second floor girl’s bathroom stall.  The school and District condemn any form of antisemitic or hateful graffiti, and it will not be tolerated. The Mt. Lebanon Police were contacted, and I have been interviewing students and watching camera footage in order to identify the person(s) responsible for this egregious act. I will take appropriate disciplinary action when I find those responsible for this incident.

I value the partnership with our local Rabbis and appreciate their consultation regarding this event.  The District’s ongoing focus on diversity, equity, and inclusion is a cornerstone to the work of educating all students on the full meaning of this hateful graffiti and all that it represents.  I encourage families to speak with their children about this incident at home. Listed below are resources to assist families in these crucial discussions. 

• How to talk to Children about Antisemitism 

• Anti-Defamation League (ADL): Talking to Young Children about Bias and Prejudice

• Talking to Children About Hate Crimes

• Healthy Children. org : Talking to Children About Racial Bias

• American Psychological Association: Talking to kids about discrimination 

• ADL:  Hate Symbols - Table Talk: Family Conversations About Current Events   

At Lincoln Elementary School, we are committed to fostering a culture of acceptance and understanding and are dedicated to creating a space where everyone is treated with kindness and respect. We remain resolute in creating a safe and inclusive environment for all students and staff.

Sincerely,

Dr. Ron Kitsko

Principal

May 3, 2023

Dear Lincoln Elementary Families,

I am very disappointed to inform you that today we had another incident of antisemitic words written on a stall wall the second floor boys’ bathroom.  The school and District condemn any form of antisemitic or hateful graffiti, and it will not be tolerated. The Mt. Lebanon Police were contacted, and I have been interviewing students and watching camera footage in an effort to identify the person(s) responsible for this act. If I can identify those responsible for this incident, appropriate disciplinary action will be taken.

In follow up to last week’s incident, we were already working on plans to guide conversations with students in Grades 4-5 about hate and antisemitic speech. I will be revisiting this plan with our counselor, Ms. Herb, to make sure that we are supporting our students impacted by these acts, while educating all students about the serious impact hate and antisemitic speech has on others. As I suggested last week, I encourage all families to speak with their children about this incident at home. Listed below are resources to assist you when having these crucial discussions. 

• How to talk to Children about Antisemitism 

• Anti-Defamation League (ADL): Talking to Young Children about Bias and Prejudice

• Talking to Children About Hate Crimes

• Healthy Children. org : Talking to Children About Racial Bias

• American Psychological Association: Talking to kids about discrimination 

• ADL:  Hate Symbols - Table Talk: Family Conversations About Current Events   

I am sure that our families may be feeling dismayed by this incident. Please know that we are committed to fostering a culture of acceptance and understanding and are dedicated to creating a space where everyone is treated with kindness and respect. We remain resolute in creating a safe and inclusive environment for all students and staff. Please reach out to me should you have any questions. 

Sincerely,

Dr. Ron Kitsko

Principal