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2023-2024 Back To School Information

Ephrata Area School District

August 18, 2023

STUDENTS' FIRST DAY - MONDAY, AUGUST 28

NEW WEBSITE & MOBILE APP

A new District website was launched which includes a fresh look and simplified user experience, including an improved staff directory, athletics calendar, and more. Additionally, a mobile app is available to download with push notifications tailored to specific buildings, interactive calendars, news alerts, and more. 

  It is a belief of the Ephrata Area School District that public education is a shared partnership between school and the home. As this partnership is built upon open and regular communication, EASD is pleased to improve the access of this information to families and community members.

NEW EPHRATA HIGH SCHOOL ASSISTANT PRINCIPAL

A third assistant principal - Mrs. Mary Wildasin - has joined the administrative team at Ephrata High School. As enrollment at Ephrata High School is nearing an all-time high, a third assistant principal will allow for greater support to meet student needs, whether related to special education, attendance interventions, or behavioral incidents. 

“Mrs. Wildasin was clearly a good fit to join our administrative team. Her views on student learning and classroom management, as well has her experience with a multi-tiered system of supports (MTSS), all aligned with our current practices and goals,” shared EHS Principal Dr. Scott Galen.  

“Additionally, all references for Mrs. Wildasin spoke highly of her student-centered values and ability to build relationships. Her overall experience positively impacting students’ educational journeys and interacting with school families will provide a valued perspective at EHS and EASD,” he concluded.  

ATHLETIC FIELDS CONSTRUCTION PROJECT

Construction is underway to the athletic fields located adjacent to Ephrata Intermediate and Middle Schools. 

The work includes many improvements:

  • New turf softball stadium
  • Turf replacement at Mountaineer Field
  • New seating setup at Mountaineer Field
  • Additional parking lots with paved walking paths
  • Concession and bathroom facilities
  • Widening of sections to Hammon Avenue to better accommodate the flow of traffic

The Ephrata Area School Board held a special meeting on July 10 to approve the $7.5 million project. The softball portion of the project is expected to be complete by the start of the spring 2024 sports season. The remainder of the project, including work at Mountaineer Field, will be ready by the fall 2024 season. Learn more, see pictures, and track the project on easdpa.org.

 SCHOOL MEALS

Breakfast remains free for students this year. Lunch prices are listed below. Applications are currently being accepted for free and reduced meals for families who qualify. Please visit SchoolCafe.com to apply or visit the Food & Nutrition page of the District website for more information.

  • Elementary - $2.70
  • EIMS - $2.90
  • EHS - $3.25

 ATTENDANCE EMAIL COMMUNICATION

When students are absent, parents/guardians are encouraged to email excuses to improve the efficiency of this communication. 

INTERNSHIPS & CO-OPS

The EHS Internship & Co-Op Program pairs juniors and seniors who wish to participate in a career-related learning experience with area businesses allowing students to learn and apply skills authentically in a real-world setting. For more information or to offer an internship or co-op experience for EHS students, please contact Michele Myers at 717-721-1478, extension 19207 or Michele_Myers@easdpa.org.

NOW HIRING

Please visit the easdpa.org/HR to view all current employment vacancies.  Additionally, a variety of substitute opportunities are available. 

EPHRATA VIRTUAL ACADEMY (EVA)

For over 10 years, EVA has offered virtual instruction identical to cyber charter programs, including on-demand (asynchronous) instruction and optional scheduled live teacher support.  New this year, the variety and number of virtual course offerings have increased to four different online learning providers.  Additionally, EVA features regular teacher check-ins, live help via online tutors available during the school day, and weekly teacher office hours. Plus, EVA students also receive:

  • Computer & Software
  • Local Contact Person
  • Ephrata High School Diploma
  • Mounts Tech Support
  • Opportunity to participate in EASD electives on-site, sports, music, art, theater, & more
  • Life Ready Graduate Certification Eligibility 
  • Internship Opportunities
  • Lancaster County CTC
  • Special Education Services

For more information on EVA, please contact Ronald Wales at Ronald_Wales@easdpa.org or 717-721-1150, extension 19505.