Emails and Communications

Email sent 3/23/23

Hello, Class of 2023,

We are almost at the end of your high school journey. We wanted you to have an updated list of year-end senior activities. Please take a moment to review these important dates and add them to your calendar. 

Congratulations!

Mrs. Tobias

Email sent 2/13/23

 Important - Course Registration Process for Students

Dear Students and Families,

I would like to update you on the course registration process for the 2023-24 school year. Teachers have made course recommendations, and you can view them in ParentVUE and StudentVUE. Below you will find links to instructions on how to view teacher recommendations, enter course requests, and request changes to locked course recommendations. These procedures for course registration will give students ample time to connect with teachers, counselors, and their families about their course selections for the upcoming school year.

Please note: Students who will be enrolling in the Virtual Academy for the 2023-24 school year will be given instructions for a separate course request entry process via the Virtual Academy in late February.  

Schedules will be built this spring, and students can view their schedules in StudentVUE in early June. There will be a period of time after schedules are released when students will be able to submit requests to modify their schedules before the start of school. 

Course Selection Dates 2023 - 24 (REMINDERS)

February 1, 2023 Students can view teacher recommendations for 2023-24 courses in ParentVUE /StudentVUE

February 1-13, 2023 Course request entry open to students/parents via ParentVUE/StudentVUE

February 13, 2023  Last day for students/parents to enter or modify course requests in ParentVUE/StudentVUE

Early June 2023 Students/parents can view the 2023-24 schedules in StudentVUE in June 2023.  Any changes to a student schedule must be made between June 6 - June 13, 2023

Below are helpful links to guide students and families in the course registration process:

Entering Course Selections:  website for directions to enter course selections.

Instructional Program Showcase: website to view all of our wonderful course offerings.

Course Request Information: website to view instructions, procedures & course request change forms.

If you have questions regarding the scheduling process, please contact the school counseling office at 814-231-1130. 

Sincerely,

Laura S. Tobias

SCAHS Principal

lst13@scasd.org

Email sent 2/8/23

Parents and Guardians, It has come to our attention that a number of students are parking in the student lot without a parking permit, or are parking in the faculty and the custodian lot on the South side of campus. As written in our handbook, “Students who park without a parking pass will receive a parking citation on their windshield. (no notification other than a windshield citation will be given.) On the third violation, the vehicle will be towed at the owner’s expense.”   We do not have any more passes available to offer underclassmen students. While we wish we could accommodate all parking requests, we simply do not have the lot capacity.  Sincerely, Brett Wilson bjw22@scasd.org Associate Principal   Jason Walker jdw14@scasd.org  Head of Security

Email sent 2/3/23

Dear State High Students and Families,  

Below is an update about our long homeroom on Wednesday, February 8, 2023. 

To support scheduling through Synergy, we will have homeroom teachers assist students in completing the scheduling process for requesting courses in the 2023-2024 school year. After course requests close, your child will be able to view scheduled courses for 2023-2024 in June. Your child will have an opportunity to make course changes and updates tentatively June 6-13 through StudentVUE. We will send email communication about that process closer to that time. 

For homeroom in February, a video overview will be provided, and homeroom time will be used to allow students to finalize scheduling requests, with the support of their homeroom teachers. Counselors will be popping into your homerooms to assist as well. The counselors are also available Feb. 6, 9, and 13 during lunches and from 8:15 am - 8:40 am to assist with any questions or concerns. 

For seniors, they will have time to work on scholarships and their resume.  

Scheduling Video 

Directions

Scheduling Information 

Scholarship Link

Resume

Thank you, 

State High Building Administration and Counseling Teams

Email sent 1/19/23

Hello State High Community,

We are so excited to be able to offer an All Night Party (ANP) for our seniors this year. Prom is an exciting time for students, but it can be a time of increased risk for dangerous behaviors. The All Night Party provides a fun, safe alternative to after-prom celebrations. Please see our All Night Party donation letter linked here. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact Jodi Leydig (jodileydig@comcast.net) or Marylou Martin (bobbalou2@comcast.net).

Thank you for helping make this year's post-prom All Nigh Party a success!

Email sent 1/18/23

2023 Educational Program Showcase 

State College Area High School

You are cordially invited to attend our upcoming Parent Night and Curriculum Showcase at the State College Area High School on January 18, 2023, beginning at 6:30 p.m. at the high school.  This evening will provide parents/guardians with the opportunity to obtain course and program information in preparation for the 2023-2024 course selection process. Our counselors and coordinators will provide a brief presentation about course sequences and the scheduling process. Following these presentations, course representatives from all areas (core, elective, Career and Technical Center, Virtual Academy, Delta, International Baccalaureate Program, and Learning Enrichment) will be available to answer questions and share information. School counselors will also be in the lobby area outside the counseling office to offer individual assistance.  To provide you with some information before your visit with us, please click here for an overview of our program offerings. Viewing this site might help you think about some questions you may want to ask our faculty during the curriculum showcase. 

In the event of inclement weather, we will host this event on January 19, 2023, at the same time.  Please contact us if you need any additional information.

Laura Tobias

High School Principal

814-231-1111

lst13@scasd.org

Brett Wilson    

Associate Principal

814-231-1111

bjw22@scasd.org

Jacqueline Saylor

Director of Curriculum 6-12

814-231-1082

jls37@scasd.org

Email sent 1/9/23

Reminder:

Dear State High Families, 

You are invited to join us this evening for an evening presentation with the Jana Marie Foundation. We are grateful for the opportunity to share our community supports with all of you.

Courageous Conversations: Mental Health and Suicide presentation on Monday January 9,  2023 from 6:30 PM until 7:30 PM. 

We will host this event in our LGI - B229/B230 at the High School building. Please park in the back parking lot and enter through the doors. There will be school employees present to assist attendees to LGI - B229/230.

We hope to see you there. 

Sincerely, 

The State High Building Administrative Team:

Mrs. Laura Tobias, Principal lst13@scasd.org

Mr. Brett Wilson, Associate Principal (P-Z last names, 10-12)  bjw22@scasd.org

Mrs. Danielle Ambrosia, Assistant Principal (9th Grade Learning Community) dak20@scasd.org

Mrs. Tina Chambers-Greene (A-G last names, 10-12)  tlc19@scasd.org

Mr. Ryan Walsh (H-O last names, 10-12)  rjw12@scasd.org

Email sent 1/8/23

2023 Educational Program Showcase 

State College Area High School

You are cordially invited to attend our upcoming Parent Night and Curriculum Showcase at the State College Area High School on January 18, 2023, beginning at 6:30 p.m. at the high school.  This evening will provide parents/guardians with the opportunity to obtain course and program information in preparation for the 2023-2024 course selection process. Our counselors and coordinators will provide a brief presentation about course sequences and the scheduling process. Following these presentations, course representatives from all areas (core, elective, Career and Technical Center, Virtual Academy, Delta, International Baccalaureate Program, and Learning Enrichment) will be available to answer questions and share information. School counselors will also be in the lobby area outside the counseling office to offer individual assistance.  To provide you with some information before your visit with us, please click here for an overview of our program offerings. Viewing this site might help you think about some questions you may want to ask our faculty during the curriculum showcase. 

In the event of inclement weather, we will host this event on January 19, 2023, at the same time.  Please contact us if you need any additional information.

Laura Tobias

High School Principal

814-231-1111

lst13@scasd.org

Brett Wilson

Associate Principal

814-231-1111    

bjw22@scasd.org

Jacqueline Saylor

Director of Curriculum 6-12

814-231-1082

jls37@scasd.org

Email sent 1/4/23

Dear State High Families, 

You are invited to join us for an evening presentation with the Jana Marie Foundation. We are grateful for the opportunity to share our community supports with all of you.

Courageous Conversations: Mental Health and Suicide presentation on Monday January 9,  2023 from 6:30 PM until 7:30 PM. 

The past few years have led to concerns about the mental health and wellness of youth, families, and communities.  The latest Pennsylvania Youth Survey (PAYS) data shows that 1 in 6 young people (grades 6-12) have seriously considered suicide, 1 in 8 have a plan for suicide, and 1 in 10 have attempted suicide. By learning the warning signs and becoming comfortable with courageous conversations, we can work together to provide hope and get our students connected to resources. We are partnering with Marisa Vicere, President and Founder of Jana Marie Foundation, to learn about potential warning signs and how best to help someone who may be experiencing a mental health concern or crisis. We will host this event in our LGI - B229/B230 at the High School building. Please park in the back parking lot and enter through the doors. There will be school employees present to assist attendees to the small auditorium. Please join us: 

Courageous Conversations: Mental Health and Suicide

Monday, January 9, 2023

6:30pm - 7:30pm

LGI - HS B229/B230

We hope to see you there. 

Sincerely, 

The State High Building Administrative Team:

Mrs. Laura Tobias, Principal lst13@scasd.org

Mr. Brett Wilson, Associate Principal (P-Z last names, 10-12)  bjw22@scasd.org

Mrs. Danielle Ambrosia, Assistant Principal (9th Grade Learning Community) dak20@scasd.org

Mrs. Tina Chambers-Greene (A-G last names, 10-12)  tlc19@scasd.org

Mr. Ryan Walsh (H-O last names, 10-12)  rjw12@scasd.org

Email sent 12/20/22

Hello Parents/Guardians, 

We hope this email finds you well. This Thursday, December 22nd, your student will have the opportunity to participate in a Mental Health Summit for the first two hours of the school day. This is a new initiative that we are bringing to State High and Delta High students that we are so excited to share! 

This Thursday students will still arrive to their first period classes by the 8:40 bell in order to take attendance, however, after the announcements are played students will be directed throughout the school to take part in various fun activities that will conclude at 10:40. This will include things like watching a movie, playing in the gyms, creating a school mural, attending mental health presentations, and so much more! The actual school portion of the day will then run on a two-hour delay schedule, as seen through this link. 

We know that as a district we have been suffering a mental health crisis, and we are hoping that this Mental Health Summit can be an effective way to continue our support for students. The Mental Health Summit will give students a chance to relax and enjoy some time with their peers instead of potentially stressing about school.

We hope that you understand our intentions behind this event, and we can’t wait to see it all come together! 

Best, 

Senior Senate, Student Government, SPIRIT Council, Mental Health Matters, School Counselors, Mental Health Clinicians, and Administration 

Email sent 12/19/22

Dear State High Families, 

Don’t forget to stop in the High School this evening for our presentation with the Jana Marie Foundation.

Courageous Conversations: Mental Health and Suicide presentation to Monday December 19, 2022. (6:30 PM until 7:30 PM)

The past few years have led to concerns about the mental health and wellness of youth, families, and communities.  The latest Pennsylvania Youth Survey (PAYS) data shows that 1 in 6 young people (grades 6-12) have seriously considered suicide, 1 in 8 have a plan for suicide, and 1 in 10 have attempted suicide. By learning the warning signs and becoming comfortable with courageous conversations, we can work together to provide hope and get our students connected to resources. We are partnering with Marisa Vicere, President and Founder of Jana Marie Foundation, to learn about potential warning signs and how best to help someone who may be experiencing a mental health concern or crisis. We will host this event in our Small Auditorium at the High School building. Please park in the back parking lot and enter through the doors. There will be school employees present to assist attendees to the small auditorium. Please join us: 

Courageous Conversations: Mental Health and Suicide

(NEW DATE)

Monday, December 19, 2022

6:30pm - 7:30pm

Small Auditorium, High School

We hope to see you there. 

Sincerely, 

The State High Building Administrative Team:

Mrs. Laura Tobias, Principal lst13@scasd.org

Mr. Brett Wilson, Associate Principal (P-Z last names, 10-12)  bjw22@scasd.org

Mrs. Danielle Ambrosia, Assistant Principal (9th Grade Learning Community) dak20@scasd.org

Mrs. Tina Chambers-Greene (A-G last names, 10-12)  tlc19@scasd.org

Mr. Ryan Walsh (H-O last names, 10-12)  rjw12@scasd.org

Email sent 12/12/22

Email sent 12/9/22

Dear State High Families, 

The past few years have led to concerns about the mental health and wellness of youth, families, and communities.  The latest Pennsylvania Youth Survey (PAYS) data shows that 1 in 6 young people (grades 6-12) have seriously considered suicide, 1 in 8 have a plan for suicide, and 1 in 10 have attempted suicide. By learning the warning signs and becoming comfortable with courageous conversations, we can work together to provide hope and get our students connected to resources. We are partnering with Marisa Vicere, President and Founder of Jana Marie Foundation, to learn about potential warning signs and how best to help someone who may be experiencing a mental health concern or crisis. We will host this event in our Small Auditorium at the High School building. Please park in the back parking lot and enter through the doors. There will be school employees present to assist attendees to the small auditorium. Please join us: 

Courageous Conversations: Mental Health and Suicide

Thursday, December 15, 2022

6:30pm - 7:30pm

Small Auditorium, High School

We hope to see you there. 

Sincerely, 

The State High Building Administrative Team:

Mrs. Laura Tobias, Principal lst13@scasd.org

Mr. Brett Wilson, Associate Principal (P-Z last names, 10-12)  bjw22@scasd.org

Mrs. Danielle Ambrosia, Assistant Principal (9th Grade Learning Community) dak20@scasd.org

Mrs. Tina Chambers-Greene (A-G last names, 10-12)  tlc19@scasd.org

Mr. Ryan Walsh (H-O last names, 10-12)  rjw12@scasd.org

Email sent 11/29/22

Good Morning State High Parents and Guardians,

Today’s the day! We are so excited to share with you our high school counseling department. Please join us for an evening presentation from our counseling department this evening, November 29 at 6:30 PM in our Performance Art Center. You will have the opportunity to meet your student's high school counselor and counselor administrative team (CAT team). There will be time for questions and a tour of the counseling department. 

We look forward to seeing you and sharing all the services that our counseling department has to offer State High families and students.

Respectfully,

Laura S. Tobias

Laura S. Tobias

High School Principal

(She/Her)

State College High School

lst13@scasd.org

814-231-1111

"Unity is Key in 2022-2023!"

Email sent 11/28/22

Hello State High Families,

Come and meet the High School Counseling Department on Nov. 29th at 6:30 pm in the Performing Arts Center. We will have a brief presentation about the Counseling Department and then a time for questions and a tour of the counseling department. 

Beth H. Burnham

Email sent 11/5/22

We want to make you aware of an incident today which resulted in a medical lockdown. 

This afternoon, an ambulance was called to assist a student in need of medical attention. 

We wanted to send this communication to ensure clarity if your child mentions this to you. Thank you, State High students, for your mature and respectful response to our medical lockdown today. 

Sincerely,

Laura S. Tobias

High School Principal

lst13@scasd.org

Laura S. Tobias

High School Principal

(She/Her)

State College High School

lst13@scasd.org

814-231-1111

"Unity is Key in 2022-2023!"

Email sent 10/20/22

Dear Parents and Guardians, 

As a parent or guardian of a high school student, social media has likely been a part of your child’s adolescent development. Social media encompasses digital APPs focused on communication including, but not limited to Instagram, Snapchat, TikTok, Twitter, and Discord. While social media is a tool utilized by individuals and organizations to spread information, it can also be difficult for teens and families to navigate. On Wednesday, October 26, 2022 we will host a Social Media Awareness presentation, which includes a Q&A. This event will take place in our Performance Art Center (PAC) from 6:30pm-7:30pm.  Our School Resource Officer will present with Paul McCormick, Delta Middle School Social Studies teacher. 

Since the return to full time, in-person school specifically, our school has seen a vast increase of inappropriate social media use centered around harassment, sexting, bullying, racism and anti-LGBTQ+ rhetoric. Children often use social media to communicate and connect with friends; however, social media can also be used to incite conflict, which impacts our school environment. 

We believe it is imperative to partner with parents in our community to keep our children safe while navigating social media and the digital world. We hope to see you at this event. 

Thank you,

Laura

Laura S. Tobias

High School Principal

(She/Her)

State College High School

lst13@scasd.org

814-231-1111

"Unity is Key in 2022-2023!"

Email sent 10/19/22

--

Beth H. Burnham

School Counselor 10-12 (A - Cl)

Counseling Coordinator

State College High School

bhb11@scasd.org

(814) 231-1130

Fax (814) 235-3039

School Code (CEEB):394685

"Unity is Key in 2022-2023!"

Email sent 10/18/22

Dear Students, Parents & Guardians,

This week is School Safety week, and with reflection upon incidents last year, we realize we need to continue to work on our safety vocabulary and procedures. In working with our Rapid Response Team and Student Safety Ambassadors, we want to provide clarification about the characteristics and differences between a Lockdown and the HIDE portion of Run/Hide/Fight. In order to give all school community members clarity, we will be having a brief drill and practice on Friday, October 21. This drill will also meet the state requirement of a lockdown drill per semester. The High School will conduct a Lockdown DRILL that transitions into a Hide DRILL portion of a Run/Hide/Fight. Teachers will be walking through how the drills would look specifically in their classrooms as the prompts are read over the PA system. This practice would provide specific information and protective action instructions.

Lockdown

• Example: Medical emergency, spill in the hallway, wild animal on premises 

  • Suspend the movement in the building 

  • Teachers clear the hallways, lock doors and continue teaching

Run/Hide/Fight

• Example: Threat present in/outside of the building

  • Turn off lights

  • Use of safety corners

The drill will be scripted and broadcast over the loudspeaker with the steps and characteristics of each drill in a thoughtful manner with our entire school community to build a better understanding of school safety. We want our faculty, staff, and students to feel empowered and know how to respond in an emergency situation. 

Sincerely,

Email sent 10/17/22

Dear Parents and Guardians, 

Curtis Johnson emailed you regarding our School Climate Survey. Unlike previous district surveys you might have taken, these surveys combine a longstanding Pennsylvania Department of Education survey that school districts have been using for years with questions specifically related to our strategic plan. Each individual’s privacy will be protected, and neither names nor individual responses will be reported. 

High school students will take their respective survey during social studies class in school between October 19 and October 26. If you would prefer your child not take the survey, please have your child be aware of your preference and contact the Social Studies Coordinator, Jessica James, (JNS21@scasd.org) by the morning (8:00am) of 10/19/2022. We will use the results only for future planning and program development.

Thank you for taking the time to help us become better.

Sincerely, 

Laura S. Tobias

High School Principal

(She/Her)

State College High School

lst13@scasd.org

814-231-1111

"Unity is Key in 2022-2023!"

Email sent 10/17/22

Dear students and parents,

All students who are currently enrolled in an AP course at the high school and plan to take the AP test in May have until midnight on Tuesday, November 1 to both register and pay for their exams (these steps are completed in two separate places: exam registration and exam payment) at the cost of $105 per exam.  

Exam registration codes are provided to students by their AP teachers.  To complete the test registration in My AP at College Board, after entering the exam join code, students will need to click the yellow “register for exam” button, then click “confirm registration.”  This will change their exam registration from “undecided” to “yes.” 

After November 1, there will be no exam registration or payment available until November 15, at which time College Board adds a late fee, and our cost will go up to $145 per exam.   Students who are requesting a fee waiver for their exam will need to complete this form instead of following the steps for exam payment.  This must also be completed by November 1.

Students who previously confirmed their exam registration in College Board, but have not completed the step to pay for their exam will have their exam registration changed back to “undecided” and no exam will be ordered for them until payment at the community ed website is finalized.  This will be at the higher cost of $145.  If you are unsure if you have paid for your exams, look for an email receipt from Community Education, or check in “my classes” in your Community Ed account. 

All current AP exam information can be found on the SCASD AP website.  If you have any additional questions about registering for AP exams, please contact Michele Rowland.  

Thank you!

Jen Rand

AP Coordinator

Email sent 10/14/22

Parents and Guardians,

We want to make you aware that two unrelated incidents at the high school required medical assistance — one involving a student and the other concerning a staff member. 

This morning, an ambulance was called to assist a student in need of medical attention. Later, we had a brief medical lockdown due to an ambulance being called to assist a staff member with an accident-related injury.

We wanted to let you know about the incidents in case your child mentioned them to you. 

Sincerely,

Laura S. Tobias

High School Principal

lst13@scasd.org

Brett Wilson

Associate Principal

bjw22@scasd.org

Tonya Black

Assistant Principal

9th Grade Learning Community 

tlc13@scasd.org

Danielle Ambrosia

Assistant Principal

10-12, A-G

dak20@scasd.org 

Ryan Walsh

Assistant Principal

10-12, H-O

rjw12@scasd.org

Email sent 10/13/22

Dear State High Community,

This email is a follow-up to the communication sent Thursday, 10/6/22, regarding a self-harm incident in our high school. The intention of this email is to highlight existing resources and provide information about our response.

Immediately following the initial report, SCAHS personnel took several steps to ensure student safety, including:

• A combination of school counselors, administrators, school nurses, teachers, and mental health professionals triaged and addressed immediate needs. Guardians/parents were notified, and connections/referrals were made to appropriate community resources.

• School counselors identified potential students impacted by the event to check in and offer services to those students. 

• An interdisciplinary team, including student leaders, was assembled to develop an individualized and informative communication notifying the State High community about the incident.

• Mental Health professionals followed up with impacted staff. 

At this time, the students directly involved have been referred to the appropriate providers for ongoing care and support. We will continue to work together, to be vigilant, and to be responsive to our student's needs. If you have immediate concerns about yourself or the safety and well-being of a student, teacher, or community member, please contact the appropriate resources below. 

• If you are experiencing a life-threatening emergency, immediately contact 911. 

• If you have concerns about self-harm or suicidal ideation for yourself or others, please contact Centre Community Resources. CCR is a 24-7 crisis support hotline to help anyone, anytime, in urgent need. You can reach CCR via phone call or text: 

  • 1-800-643-5432 (call)

  • 63288 (text)

• To report safety concerns confidentially, please use Safe2Say, a 24-hour anonymous reporting system.

• Additional resources can be found on the SCAHS website:“Mental Health/Drug & Alcohol and Emergency Information”  and HOME Office 

We are concerned about the increased self-harm and suicidal ideation within our community and on a national level. We will continue to work with our students and families, our internal services, and community partners to address what we are seeing. SCASD is offering a Straight Talk on October 18, “When Grief Comes to School,” at 7 pm. You can find more information here. It is essential that parents and school personnel continue to partner together to support our children. 

Respectfully,

Laura S. Tobias

High School Principal

lst13@scasd.org

Brett Wilson

Associate Principal

bjw22@scasd.org

Tonya Black

Assistant Principal

9th Grade Learning Community 

tlc13@scasd.org

Danielle Ambrosia

Assistant Principal

10-12, A-G

dak20@scasd.org 

Ryan Walsh

Assistant Principal

10-12, H-O

rjw12@scasd.org

Email Sent 10/13/22

Dear Parents and Guardians:

PA Act 158 of 2018 requires all students who graduate in 2023 or beyond to meet a particular pathway to graduate from a public high school in Pennsylvania. This link will help you understand the different pathways your child has available to meet the requirements for graduation. While some pathways don't depend on a student's proficiency on a Keystone Exam, the federal government still holds each district accountable to test all students. So, choosing a pathway that does not involve a Keystone Exam does not opt the student out of testing. The only opt-out for testing is for religious reasons or if you have taken/scheduled to take the Pennsylvania Alternate System of Assessment (PASA). Please see this link for opt-out directions. 

We will offer a Keystone Pathway Informational Session on November 16, 2022. It will be held at the high school in the auxiliary auditorium at 6:30 p.m. Please use this link to RSVP so we can plan for an appropriate space. 

On December 7-8, 2022, we will be administering the Winter Wave of the Keystone exam. We are primarily testing some students who were not proficient during the December 2021 and May 2022 testing wave.  By the end of November, all students scheduled to test will be notified by email. 

Based on the schedule below, we will be running a delayed school start time for students not taking the exam. 

The information below outlines our plans for December. In addition, we will provide more logistical details about when and where a student should report at a later date. The goal is to send this information to families after the Thanksgiving break.

If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to contact our Testing Coordinator, Shai McGowan, at slm12@scasd.org.

Sincerely,

Mrs. Shai McGowan

Keystone Exam Testing Coordinator

District Assessment Coordinator  

(814)231-1011 x6708

Email sent 10/11/22

Dear Students and Families,

Tomorrow we are administering the PSATs for 9th-11th graders. Plan to arrive at school with enough time to check-in to your assigned testing space no later than 8:40.  If you plan on eating breakfast, leave yourself additional time to eat in the cafeteria as you will not be able to bring the food to the testing area.

Testing locations are as follows, unless you are notified otherwise:

• 9th graders you will be testing in one of the gyms near the back entrance/office.

• 10th and 11th graders can check the appropriate room assignment document below for their testing room or the large posters that will be posted near both the front and rear entrances and the CEGL - these will be posted by lunch today.

  • 10th Grade Room Assignments

  • 11th Grade Room Assignments

For testing, you should bring only the following:

• A school or government ID - if you are an 11th grader who currently does not have an ID make sure to stop at the Depot today to get one printed. (You can use your drivers licence or previous school ID)

• #2 pencils

• A calculator

• A few small snacks and a bottle of water

If you bring a phone or smartwatch with you they will be collected by your proctor and returned to you at the end of the test. Additionally, you do not need a backpack, but if you bring one it will have to be placed along the wall in the testing area and space is limited.

If you have any questions or concerns, please email me at jls68@scasd.org.

We look forward to seeing you tomorrow. 

Sincerely,

Jennifer Scudder, Testing Coordinator

Laura Tobias, Principal

Email Sent 10/7/22

Dear Families,

The PSAT test administration is now one week away on Wednesday October 12th. As a reminder the test is being offered for all students in grades 9-11. If your student is in 12th grade, or will not be taking the test, they are excused for the day and should not plan to come to school.

If you have a student in 9th-11th grade and do not wish for them to participate in the test, only the parent/guardian can opt them out using this form: https://forms.gle/RrYH3GGLqyo126LH8.     If a student completes the form we will not be able to process the request.

For those students who will be joining us please remember the following:

You must have an ID - either one that is issued by the school, or a government ID.

You need to know your full address in order to complete the demographic section of the test.

You may bring snacks and bottled water to consume during specified breaks.

You should not bring your phone or wear any SMART watches - such as Apple Watch - if you do, they will be collected by the room proctor and returned at the end of the test.

You do not need your backpack as you do not need to bring anything other than your ID, #2 pencils, and a calculator.

Finally, students who are testing with extended time will be receiving an email today with the option to buy a bag lunch to be delivered at the end of the testing period. Students will be charged for the lunch at their normal rate.

Should you have any questions or concerns please email Jennifer Scudder at jls68@scasd.org

Sincerely,

Jennifer Scudder, Testing Coordinator

Laura Tobias, Principal

Email sent 10/6/22

Dear State High Community:

This morning prior to school starting, there was an incident of self harm in the high school involving a student. We want to share what we know, as well as information about resources, out of concern for all of our students and employees. Please know, the individuals directly involved are now safe and being cared for by the appropriate professionals. 

This incident is troubling for all of us, and we are still processing everything that happened. Today and in the coming days, we will do everything we can to support any student or employee we know of that needs help. However, we do not want to miss anyone. If you, or your child, needs assistance to process what happened, or if they are experiencing thoughts of harming themselves or others, our counselors are always available during school hours. 

Below are some resources that are helpful outside of school:

If you are experiencing a life-threatening emergency, contact 911. 

If you have concerns about self-harm or suicidal ideation for yourself or others, please contact Centre Community Resources. CCR is a 24-7 crisis support hotline to help anyone, anytime, in urgent need. You can reach CCR via phone call or text: 

• 1-800-643-5432 (call)

• 63288 (text)

For concerns about the safety of others: Safe2Say is a 24-hour anonymous reporting system which allows individuals to confidentially report safety concerns.

As we learn more, we will keep you informed to the best of our ability while still respecting the privacy of everyone involved. 

Sincerely,

Laura S. Tobias
High School Principal
(She/Her)
State College High School
lst13@scasd.org
814-231-1111
"Unity is Key in 2022-2023!"

Email Sent 10/4/22

State High Parents and Guardians,
Please see the below email that was sent to all students about our upcoming Homecoming Dance and procedures. We wanted to inform you of key details to help make Homecoming 2022 a huge success. In addition, please know that no Junior High students are permitted at this high school dance. If you have any questions, please contact your child’s administrator. 

_____________________________________

Just a couple of reminders:

1.  Buy your homecoming dance tickets online for Saturday's HC dance here at the high school from 7-9 pm.

2.  The dance is SEMI-FORMAL.

3.  Please vote for the Homecoming King and Queen with the following link.  Voting ends soon.

https://forms.gle/xwesCnj72BU6137U9

4.  The HC parade will be Thursday starting at 6 pm with a Pep Rally at Memorial Field to follow.

5.  ID's must be shown to enter the HC Dance!!

6.  Remember to wear WHITE to school on Thursday!! 

7.  If you are bringing an outside guest, please stop in the lower main office to pick up a guest form. These will need to be submitted by Friday, October 7, 2022.

8. You need verbal parental permission to leave the dance early. You are not permitted to leave the dance before 8 PM. 

Thank You
Laura S. Tobias / HS Principal
lst13@scasd.org
Brett Wilson / 10-12 (P-Z)
bjw22@scasd.org
Ryan Walsh / 10-12 (H-O)
rjw12@scasd.org
Danielle Ambrosia / 10-12 (A-G)
dak20@scasd.org
Tonya Black/ 9th grade
tlc13@scasd.org

Hello State High Families,

The PSAT test administration is in two weeks on Wednesday, October 12th. As a reminder, the test is being offered for all students in grades 9-11. If your student is in 12th grade or will not be taking the test, they are excused for the day and should not plan to come to school.

If you have a student in 9th-11th grade and do not wish for them to participate in the test, you can opt them out using this form: https://forms.gle/RrYH3GGLqyo126LH8

For those students who will be joining us for testing, please read this What to Expect, What to Bring, What to Know document to gain more insight into how the day is structured and what you need to bring and know for the test. Students taking the PSAT/NMSQT should also have received a Student Guide in their English classes that contains helpful information and two practice tests. 

Should you have any questions or concerns, please email Jennifer Scudder at jls68@scasd.org

Sincerely,

Jennifer Scudder, Testing Coordinator

Laura Tobias, Principal

Greetings, State High Families,

On October 12, 2022, all 9th, 10th, & 11th-grade students will have the opportunity during the school day to take either the PSAT 8/9 (9th grade) or the PSAT/NMSQT (10th & 11th grade, this exam serves as the National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test) free of charge.  

These exams will provide our students with valuable feedback and an opportunity to gain testing insights on their strengths and areas for growth. This test will also help prepare students for the SAT and increase their chances of eligibility for scholarships available from the National Merit Scholarship Corporation. 

Due to the number of students taking this test and the length of the exam, we will only be testing on the 12th and are modifying the schedule as follows:

9th - 11th-grade students - You will need to report to school by the regular start time of 8:40 a.m.  After the test, students will report to the cafeteria for lunch, followed by an early dismissal at 1:30 p.m. Parents/guardians may pick up their student(s) after the exam lets out, or students can take their regular assigned bus home at 1:30 p.m. (Parents of students with an IEP or 504 plan that allows for extra time on tests may have to make special arrangements to pick up their child from school).

12th grade - Twelfth-grade students will not have to report to school on this particular day.  However, we encourage you to use this time to volunteer within the community.

If you do not wish for your student to participate in the testing, you can opt them out of the test using this form. Please note the PSAT NMSQT is an alternative assessment for the Keystone pathway graduation requirements. Any student that scores a 970 or higher on the PSAT NMSQT automatically meets the graduation requirement under Act 158.

Sincerely,

Laura Tobias, High School Principal

Jennifer Scudder, Testing Coordinator

jl68s@scasd.org

Subject: You’re Invited! Informational Session: ParentVUE/ Attendance

____

Dear Parents and Guardians, 

The 2021-2022 school year was our first year with ParentVUE; it was also a year of differing absence procedures due to the Covid-19 pandemic. This year, we want to ensure parents and guardians have clarity regarding how to most effectively use ParentVUE and proper attendance procedures. 

We would like to formally invite you to an informational session on attendance and ParentVUE on Thursday, September 29, 2022 at 6:30pm. We will have several school community members present to help us with this presentation. Please bring your phone or tablet. We will convene in the Performing Arts Center (PAC). Please enter the high school from the rear entrance and walk down the stairs. 

We believe it is imperative to partner with parents in our community. We hope to see you at this event. 

Thank you,

State High Administration, Home School Visitor, and IT Department

Subject: 2022-2023 Beginning of School Year Information

August 5, 2022

Greetings State High Families,

We hope you’re having a relaxing summer and enjoying time with your family. As we look to the start of the 2022-2023 school year our goal is to guide students to success meeting high expectations through collaborative school, family, and community support. We are excited to share our student-generated theme for the year: “Unity is Key in 2022-2023.” 

Important Information: 

Schedule: 

• Doors will open at 7:30 a.m. for students taking zero period classes.

• Our school day begins at 8:40 a.m. and ends at 3:40 p.m. 

• Please refer to the following link for the Bell Schedule. 

Counselor-Administrator Teams

• The structure of the high school counselor-administrator teams is a team model; the purpose is to be able to create relationships with students and families. 

• The 9th Grade Learning Community (9LC) focuses distinctly on students’ academic and social growth, connection to school, and learning. 

• Counselor-Administrator Teams can be found here:  link

• Your child’s assigned counselor-administrator team is based on their last name.

• For hyphenated last names, your child is assigned by the name prior to the hyphen. 

**If you are a returning 11-12 student, you will notice there has been a slight change in counselor-administrator assignments. This is to ensure that counselors and administrators have approximately the same amount of assigned students. 

ParentVue

• To access your child’s student information please visit the ParentVue link. 

• Update your contact information with any changes. 

**In ParentVue, you will be able to find the following information: school attendance, grade book, student schedules, and course information.  There will also be a list of documents that you will need to check off that you have read (i.e. K-12 Student Handbook, 6-12 Code of Conduct, and District device usage sign off).

9th Grade Learning Community (9LC) Welcome - Thursday, September 8, 6:00 - 6:30

We invite our 9th grade families to join us for our 9LC Welcome event, Thursday, September 8, from 6:00-6:30 in our Performing Arts Center (PAC). Our 9LC Counselor/Administrator Team (CAT) will share first-year-of-high-school information. Back To School Night will immediately follow from 6:30-8:00.

Back To School Night - Thursday, September 8, 6:30 - 8:00

As you plan ahead, we would like for you to save the date for our Back to School Night. This year, we will host Back to School Night on Thursday, September 8, beginning at 6:30pm. It will be an open-house format. We look forward to seeing you. 

Parent and Community Outreach

• Please consider joining PTSO

  • Meetings are first Tuesday of the month

  • The next meeting will be on September 6 at 7pm at this link. 

  • Reach out to PTSO President, Lisa Cohen: lcohen@artemisgroup.com  

  • Please look for forthcoming communication via email

• Please join us for our monthly School-Family Connection Events

  • In response to parent feedback, we are offering informational sessions on topics specific to school: ParentVue, Keystone Pathways to Graduation, Social Media, etc. 

  • Tentative Schedule for the first three events: 

    • Thursday, September 29, 6:30 - 7:30: Attendance and Synergy- bring your devices

    • Wednesday, October 26, 6:30 - 7:30: Social Media and Digital Citizenship

  • Be on the lookout for invitations through email

Parent Drop-Off and Student Parking

• Please follow drop off traffic protocols.

  •  The front parking loop facing Westerly is for district transportation only. Parent drop off is prohibited in this area.

  • Parent drop off has been moved to the Food Services loop off of O’Bryan Lane.

  • Attach PDF

• Please plan for additional commute time in the opening weeks of school, as we all adjust to increased traffic. 

• For senior students who are interested in purchasing a parking pass, please check your email during the first two weeks of school. Information will be forthcoming. 

• Junior eligibility depends on space availability and a valid need to leave campus, (enrolled in courses that require you to arrive at school before the school day or leave school early.) Junior Option, clubs, activities and sports do not qualify juniors for a pass.

School Safety

• Our district continues to implement COVID safety protocols and procedures.

• Here’s the link to our district Health and Safety Plan: Health and Safety Plan 2022-2023

• We will continue to follow customary attendance and safety protocols in accordance with the Pennsylvania Department of Education guidelines. This will include taking attendance on a daily basis and conducting evacuation, lockdown, and severe weather drills throughout the school year. In closing, we are looking forward to a productive partnership that ensures our students can achieve their highest potential. In order to be successful in school, students need support from both home and school. We know a strong relationship with you will make a great difference in your child’s education. State High administration, faculty, and staff look forward to welcoming your child for the 2022-2023 school year.

Your educational partners,

State College Area High School Administrative Team 

Mrs. Tobias - Building Principal

Mr. Wilson- Associate Principal (10-12, P-Z)

Mrs. Ambrosia- Assistant Principal (10-12, A-G)

Mr. Walsh- Assistant Principal (10-12, H-O)

Mrs. Black- Assistant Principal, 9th Grade Learning Community (9LC)

Dr. Mordan - Director, Career & Technical Center (CTC)