Brian S. Harvey

The Fort Cherry School District's budget for the 2025-2026 school year includes potential additional revenue from raising taxes to the index, increased Basic Ed and Special Ed Funding from the state, and a substantial increase in Property Tax Relief payment. Expenditures include an overall budget increase, costs for a District Musical, and additional Debt Service for a new bond. The budget also addresses medical rate increases, PSERS increases, and cyber/charter school student enrollment. Key components cover revenues from local, state, and federal sources, as well as expenditures by category and object, including salaries, benefits, and tuition.

The meeting provided an overview of the district's capital projects planning, including the incorporation of air ventilation upgrades. The discussion included the district's finances, prior completed capital projects, and proposed future capital projects. There was a presentation on the district's finances, capital projects timeline, air ventilation options, and potential bond needs. The meeting addressed concerns about classrooms being warmer than normal and explored options for air ventilation, including repairing existing ventilators or replacing them with a new hydraulic system. The potential budget impact of adding air conditioning was discussed, including items that might need to be cut from the three-year project capital project planning. Programming and personnel changes were also addressed, including cuts to certain programs and the addition of others, as well as personnel changes through attrition and elimination of positions.

The meeting provided an overview of the district's capital projects plans, including the incorporation of air conditioning and air ventilation upgrades. The presentation covered district finances, completed and proposed capital projects, and potential bond needs. Community input was invited regarding upcoming decisions. Discussions included options for air ventilation in classrooms, potential cuts to projects and programs, and additions to the curriculum.

The agenda includes an executive session for a school safety and security presentation. The meeting will cover approval of bills for payments, treasurer's report account summaries, and budget control reports. Discussions will involve personnel and curriculum matters, including resignations and new hires for various positions. Buildings and grounds topics include ratifying purchases for masonry materials and outdoor bleacher sets, as well as approving purchases for bathroom cleaning systems, cafeteria tables, and graphics for the high school and sports dugouts. Technology discussions will cover contract renewals for software and agreements for Microsoft licensing and IT services. The agenda also includes items related to athletics, activities, miscellaneous agreements, and budget adoption.

The Fort Cherry School District's comprehensive plan for 2024-2027 aims to create a learning community that equips students with the skills and knowledge necessary for success in a global society. The plan focuses on enhancing college and career readiness through personalized guidance, improving academic achievement by using data-driven instruction and increasing the number of students meeting PA Graduation Pathway expectations. It also addresses chronic absenteeism and seeks to provide more rigorous opportunities for students with disabilities in less restrictive environments.