Audrey Blust

The meeting included a recognition of student artists and their work displayed in the district. The Superintendent provided information regarding an upcoming community forum scheduled for May 18th to discuss curriculum, student achievement, career development, finances, and technology. Student representatives from the high schools and STEM academy presented reports covering upcoming events such as proms, blood drives, club fairs, honor society inductions, various competitions, and testing schedules. The board discussed the 2026-2027 budget proposal, covering revenue projections, operational savings achieved through attrition and reassignment, charter school cost trends, and transportation contract renewals.

The meeting featured a superintendence report regarding the passing of a community member and the subsequent operational adjustments for schools, including the implementation of a flexible instructional day. Student representatives provided updates on activities at their respective schools, including scholarship applications, athletic successes, and upcoming theatrical performances. Additionally, the district presented a preliminary proposed budget for the upcoming school year, discussing millage rates, assessment appeals, and revenue projections from local, state, and federal sources.

The committee meeting primarily focused on the Chester County Intermediate Unit budget presentation for the upcoming fiscal year. Key topics included a review of categorical core, occupational education, and marketplace services budgets, along with discussions on revenue sources, staffing additions, and facility expansion initiatives. There was a report on student enrollment trends, industry certification achievements for technical college high school students, and the financial impact of cost-saving partnerships, such as joint purchasing and petroleum product bids. Additionally, the committee reviewed strategies to manage budget pressures while maintaining high-quality educational and support services for students.

The parent speaker series focused on the complexities of school avoidance, identifying contributing factors such as mental health concerns, family dynamics, bullying, neurodivergence, and social-emotional needs. Presenters discussed the challenges of supporting students across different grade levels, the impact of the pandemic on school attendance, and the importance of a collaborative, multidisciplinary approach involving community providers to identify individualized interventions and resources.

The meeting commenced with the Pledge of Allegiance and a roll call. The Superintendent presented student reports from Downingtown High School East, the STEM Academy, and Downingtown West. Key topics included student achievements such as FBLA regional competition success, toy drives, and participation in Make-A-Wish fundraising. Course selection timelines and dual enrollment opportunities were detailed. The discussion also covered music performances, student support initiatives (PBIS focusing on dedication), and SAT preparation classes. The STEM Academy and Downingtown West student representatives expressed appreciation to the board for their dedication. The Superintendent then presented a detailed Student Achievement Report based on the Spring 2025 assessment window, highlighting proficiency gains and growth data in Math, ELA, and Science, noting particular achievements like fourth-grade growth data ranking first in Pennsylvania for both Math and ELA. The board also honored a faculty member, Allison Patterson, and a student, Zachary Stoner, for their participation in the Bands of America Honor Band in the New Year's Day Pasadena Rose Parade.