Back to School

After serving the Bangor Area School District for more than 20 years as a teacher at both DeFranco and Five Points Elementary Schools, and most recently as Assistant Principal at Bangor Area Middle School, I am honored and excited to return to DeFranco Elementary School as Principal.

My mission is to create a ripple effect of positivity, leadership, and growth that empowers every student to reach their fullest potential. I believe that strong communication, meaningful relationships, and collaboration among students, families, staff, and the community are essential to student success.

At DeFranco, we are committed to creating opportunities that inspire, challenge, and empower our students so they can truly THRIVE. Together, we will foster a supportive learning environment where every child feels valued, connected, and capable of achieving great things.

I look forward to partnering with you and making this an amazing school year for all!

Sincerely,

Mrs. Lisa Dente

I am Nicholas Ciambrone and will serve as the Assistant Principal at Defranco Elementary School. I am excited to join Slaters Nation and be part of this wonderful community! This is my 12th year in education where I have worked with children from elementary school through high school.

Throughout my career, I have focused on creating a positive, safe and inclusive learning environment where every child can THRIVE. This vision helps guide us to shape our learning experiences and provide a place for students to grow as successful young people. Ultimately, our goal is to ensure that every student is prepared for their journey beyond us here at Defranco.

I look forward to meeting each of you and learning what makes Bangor so special.

Sincerely,

Mr. Ciambrone

• Student class assignments and transportation information have been published in Sapphire and can be viewed in the Sapphire Parent Portal.
• Bus Exception Form: Did you have a change in childcare, or do you have a safety concern? Fill out the bus exception form below and return to your student's school.
• Digital Packets:
• Log onto Sapphire to complete your students Digital Packet. The student handbook will be added in mid-August. Please complete so the building has the most updated information for your student. If you have issues logging in to Sapphire, please call 610-599-7013 for help!

The first Friday of every month building staff and students are encouraged to wear their Slater gear or colors as a sign of our Slater Pride! Please encourage your student to participate!

• 8/25 - from 4:30 - 6:30pm - Open House / Meet the Teacher
• 8/31 - First Day of School
• 9/4 - Schools Closed; Offices Open
• 9/7 - Labor Day; District Closed
• 9/11 - Patriot Day; Wear Red, White, and Blue
• 9/17 - Constitution Day
• 9/21 - School Closed; Act 80 Day K-12
• 9/24 - DDF School Picture Day

Absence notes must be uploaded to your child's Parent Portal within three (3) days of the absence. Students are permitted up to 10 parent-excused absences each school year. After 10 parent notes have been submitted, a doctor's note will be required for any additional absences to be excused.

Educational trips count toward the 10 parent-excused absences permitted each year. For example, if a student is approved for a 5-day educational trip, they will have 5 remaining parent-excused absences available for the remainder of the school year.

Please make every effort to ensure your child arrives at school on time each day. Tardy minutes accumulate throughout the school year and are converted to absences, with every 388 tardy minutes equaling one full day of absence. Every instructional minute matters and contributes to your child's academic success.

The Student Code of Conduct is designed to promote a safe, respectful, and positive learning environment for all students and staff. We encourage families to review the Code of Conduct with their child(ren) and discuss the expectations outlined within it. The Student Code of Conduct is available on the District website. Student behavior and disciplinary matters will be addressed in accordance with the Code of Conduct.

Visitors entering DDF will need to go through our visitor management system. In order to do this, you MUST present a valid ID at the main entrance. If you do not have an ID, you will be asked to provide your name to the secretaries for entry into the system. This process is part of our ongoing effort to improve safety and security in our building. We thank you in advance for your patience and cooperation with this process.