Carlynton School District

The board meeting featured a comprehensive presentation on the 2024-2025 fiscal audit, which resulted in a clean, unqualified opinion. Discussions were held regarding the district's investment in solar energy for the junior-senior high school to improve fiscal and environmental efficiency. Several donations were accepted, including contributions from the Crafton Elementary School PTA for playground shading and the Subaru Loves Learning Initiative. The administration also proposed adding two new teaching positions to address graduation requirements and increased enrollment in special education services. Additionally, updates were provided on modernizing district board policies and activities related to the Parkway Career and Technical Center, including student success in competitions and grant funding for vocational equipment.

The meeting included an executive session to discuss personnel and legal matters. The Superintendent's report covered policy updates, including revisions for administration, attendance, purchasing, budgeting thresholds aligning with state mandates, and federal fiscal compliance. Two new policies were introduced: one establishing guidelines for non-school sponsored student-initiated groups to comply with federal equal access requirements, and another formalizing Title One parent and family engagement expectations. An update was provided on the installation of stop order enforcement cameras on all buses, with enforcement projected to begin in March. Protocols regarding federal agents on district property and transportation providers accessing students were reinforced. Reports from Parkway West included updates on low road salt inventory, the date for the summer career exploration camp, and the upcoming operating budget proposal which represents a 3% increase to member districts. The Parkway Senior Recognition Ceremony is scheduled for May 13th. Pathfinder reported steady enrollment but a need for more one-on-one employees, and noted an opportunity to apply for a grant to address boiler and window repairs. The district is continuing its quarterly student recognition program, highlighting student growth and perseverance. A legislative update noted that Governor's budget proposal was presented, and House Bill 17, requiring cursive handwriting instruction in K-12 schools effective April 12th, was signed into law. Student representatives provided updates on recent activities, including decorating for Valentine's Day and a special strawberry and peach refresher drink collaboration with the Black Student Union for Black History Month.

The meeting focused on addressing the vacancy created by a director's resignation, which involved interviewing three public candidates for the open position. Board members discussed the appointment process, noting the difficulty in making a selection given the quality of the candidates. Key discussion points for candidates included their motivation for serving, their perceived responsibilities of a school board (such as fiscal stewardship, governing capacity, policy oversight, and hiring/evaluating the superintendent), and the most significant challenges facing public education, such as post-pandemic learning gaps, budgetary issues due to a lower tax base, managing growing populations of English language learners and special needs students, and addressing technological advancements like AI and cell phone usage policies. The board proceeded to a roll call vote to select the new member.

The meeting commenced with an Executive Session discussing informational matters, contractual matters, and potential litigation. The Superintendent's report covered January being School Director Recognition Month, acknowledgement of a resigning board member, and updates on governance, instructional initiatives, and policy matters. Key instructional updates included a presentation on proposed updates to high school graduation requirements, curriculum updates for the 2026-2027 program of studies (adding four new CHS classes, introducing a 2-year biology sequence, and expanding credit opportunities through work release programs). The board also reviewed the proposed 2026-2027 academic calendar, which was developed considering facility renovation timelines. Facility planning included a presentation on the proposed renovation of the junior senior high school shop area to modernize spaces for esports, digital design, robotics, and media production. Bond financing updates were provided regarding the fourth capital improvements project. Fiscal matters included considering the Act 1 resolution for the 2026-2027 school year and the first read of three policies related to athletics, fee delegation, and compliance reporting. A correction regarding a previously advertised incorrect principal amount for a bond resolution necessitated scheduling a special meeting for January 27th to vote on the correct resolution.

The meeting commenced with a reorganization process, including the election of a temporary chairperson and subsequent votes to appoint the board President and Vice President. Key discussions included the approval of appointments for representatives to various organizations such as Legislative PSBA, Pathfinder, Shazda, Parkway West, and the Foundation. A significant action item involved the approval of an agreement with Bus Patrol, in cooperation with Monarch Transportation, to install stop arm enforcement cameras on 28 school buses to enhance student safety by detecting and deterring illegal passing of stopped school buses. Administrative items covered approving the 2026 meeting calendar, designating the official newspaper for legal advertising, reappointing the school district solicitor, and outlining the timeline and factors influencing the 2026-2027 budget development.