Daphne Pugh

The Hanover Area School District's Comprehensive Plan for 2022-2025 outlines a strategic roadmap to foster student potential and community well-being. Its core priorities include reducing non-attendance through a multi-stakeholder School Attendance Toolkit, securing resources to diminish achievement gaps and enhance math proficiency, and increasing opportunities for student engagement and academic support. The plan is committed to providing a safe learning environment, promoting lifelong learning, celebrating diversity, and upholding strong ethical values within the educational community.

The board meeting primarily focused on the potential suspension of all fall sports and co-curricular activities due to the ongoing pandemic. The Superintendent recommended the suspension based on health and safety concerns for students. The board heard comments from both the Superintendent and a representative for the student athletes, who argued for the continuation of activities with existing safety protocols. Following the discussion, the board held a vote, resulting in the approval of the motion to suspend these activities until further notice.

The board discussed a new EMT Certification student career pathway program, recognized teachers during Teacher Appreciation Week, and acknowledged students of the month. Several general items were approved, including an updated organizational chart, a school calendar correction, and the district's comprehensive plan. Financial actions involved ratifying check registers, entering a sponsorship agreement with FNCB Bank, ratifying a contract with the educational support professionals association, and approving the proposed final general fund budget for the upcoming school year. Personnel actions included accepting resignations, approving salary increases, appointing staff, and approving the tentative graduation list for the class of 2023.

The Board of Education discussed and approved various administrative, financial, and personnel items. Key actions included the approval of an updated organizational chart, the district's comprehensive plan, and an agreement for gymnasium flooring repairs. Financial approvals encompassed the 2023-2024 proposed final general fund budget, sponsorship agreements with FNCB Bank, ratification of check registers, and tax exemptions for disabled veterans. Personnel matters involved several staff resignations, salary increases for designated employees, appointments for various support and safety positions, and the approval of the tentative graduation list. Additionally, the board voted to join class action social media litigation and rescinded the approval of an assistant principal appointment.

The Board of Education discussed the status of school reopenings including safety precautions and COVID-19 positivity rates, approved various school board policies, and ratified financial reports and lease agreements for copiers, classroom facilities, and security systems. Additionally, the board approved a dual enrollment agreement with Lackawanna College, awarded a bid for electrostatic disinfecting services, and authorized security services for sporting events. Personnel actions included approving tenure for a professional employee, accepting several staff resignations, appointing mentor teachers and new department chairs, and implementing Title IX regulation compliance. The board also authorized a COVID-19 relief grant application and addressed leave requests for various staff members.