Brice N. Benson

The board meeting covered various topics, including budget review, contract approvals (UPMC Cole for ACCESS program, Collective Bargaining Agreement with Smethport Area Educational Support Professionals Association, MOU with Smethport Area Educational Support Professionals Association, Agreement with The Guidance Center for Project RAPPORT program services), personnel matters (coaching positions, substitute teachers, Board Secretary appointment, resignation of a temporary aide), student activities (canned food drive, summer school program), financial matters (healthcare premium increase, fund transfers, Wolfinger Family Fund Grants), and a resolution regarding Cyber Charter School Funding Reform. Discussion also included a GESA project report, preliminary budget presentation, and the SASD 21/22 Supervision Plan and Assistant Principal position.

The meeting included reports on health insurance costs, winter athletics, attendance data, enrollment data, and the approval of flexible instruction days. The Superintendent also reported on the extension of the Seamless Summer Option program. Several key actions were taken, including approving donations to local libraries, additions to substitute staff lists, a resignation, supplemental coaching positions, a natural gas purchase agreement, student activity accounts, high school graduation requirements, board policies, a student's request to take an online course, a donation of a football sled, items on a discard list, and leave without pay for an employee. Information was shared regarding unemployment compensation claims and online streaming of athletic events. Students of the month were recognized.

The meeting covered various topics including the treasurer's report, bill and salary list approvals, superintendent's report on facility maintenance and repairs, and technology updates. Key decisions included personnel appointments, budget approvals (general fund, cafeteria), tax rate setting (per capita, wage, real estate transfer), and the adoption of the enVision Math textbook/curriculum. Other actions involved approving contracts for athletic training services, a donation to the Smethport Fire Department, and resolutions regarding fund balance usage and Act 93 Agreement. Supplemental positions were approved for the 2020-21 school year, along with a medical leave of absence and a Jr. High soccer co-op agreement. Finally, a school safety report was approved.

The Smethport Area School District's comprehensive plan focuses on promoting quality education through collaboration between school, family, and community to foster career readiness and personal goals. Key areas include curriculum alignment with PA standards, improving instruction through various strategies (formal observations, walkthroughs, instructional coaching), meeting diverse student needs (structured grouping, flexible scheduling, differentiated instruction), and enhancing professional development. The plan also addresses assessment practices, including summative and formative assessments, data-informed instruction, and the use of early warning systems to identify at-risk students. A significant focus is placed on creating a safe and supportive school environment, providing gifted education services, and coordinating with community agencies to support student well-being and academic success. The plan outlines specific goals and strategies for each area, with timelines and responsible parties identified.

The meeting covered various topics, including the approval of the treasurer's report, bill and salary lists, and student activity accounts. Key decisions included the appointment of a new superintendent, approval of a maternity leave, acceptance of a resignation, creation of a new position (Assistant Technology Coordinator), and approval of job description changes in the technology department. The board also approved additions to substitute staff and bus driver lists, endorsed practices in the health and safety plan regarding short-term closures and remote instruction, and approved agreements related to student discipline and career counseling services. Several commendations were given to students and staff for academic achievements and athletic accomplishments.