Greg Hajek

The Budget/Finance Committee meeting included the opening of the meeting and comments from the public, during which one individual addressed the Board. Key updates presented included a Budget to Actual Review for the 2nd Quarter of Fiscal Year 2025-2026, and a discussion regarding the Transportation Subsidy/Transportation Contract. The meeting concluded shortly after.

The work session included procedural items such as the call to order, invocation, and pledge of allegiance. Discussion topics spanned multiple sections: Budget and Fiscal Affairs involved the 2026-2027 Budget (Debt), and discussions regarding approval/ratification of bills, fund balance transfers, financial reports, and a foundation donation, with several items moved to the consent agenda for a future meeting. Academic Achievement covered discussions on Middle School and High School Programs of Studies, and Cyber Services Agreement. Operational Services included a District Policy Update, Certificates of Substantial Completion, first readings of several policies, and discussions on the Butler County Area Vo-Tech School Budget and the 'No OffSeason' item. Student Services included reports on PMEA events and a discussion on PIAA Swimming & Diving State Championships. Staff Services involved a Staff Spotlight and discussions concerning the Director of Special Services, Special Education Aide, various leaves (maternity, family/medical), resignations, unpaid time, co-curricular positions, program volunteers, and educational conferences. Administrative reports were provided, and the Superintendent and a Board member offered comments.

The meeting included opening statements from the administration and the Board regarding mandated reporting requirements and the intent to reinstate Mr. Logan Downes, although no official action was taken on this matter. Key actions in the Budget and Fiscal Affairs section included approving the 2024-2025 final audited financial statements, certifying an Act 1 Resolution regarding tax increases for the 2026-2027 school year, and approving various payments and fund transfers. Operational Services approved the second reading of several district policies (including 102, 105, 808, 918) and maintenance agreements for the MS/HS fire alarm system and custodial support. Student Services approved supervision agreements for Middle School Baseball, Boys' Lacrosse, and Girls' Wrestling programs, and an affiliation agreement with Western Governors University. Staff Services approved numerous personnel actions, including the retirement of a Director, retroactive approval for a Special Education Teacher, hiring a Custodian and a Long-Term Substitute, and approving several leave requests and resignations. The Board also approved travel for staff to attend the PASBO Conference in March 2026.

The Education Committee meeting included discussions on procedural items, curriculum updates, and program initiatives. Topics covered STEELS Standards, the new Science Curriculum, Social Studies Curriculum Review, PSSA/Keystone Online Testing, Academic Achievement Report, IXL Benchmark Assessments, KHS Targeted School Improvement, K-12 School Counseling Plan, Academic & Social-Emotional Resources, and the 2026-2027 School Calendar. There were also discussions related to math scores, accessing the Pathways to Success document, and early release program attendance verifications.

The School Board work session included discussions on various topics such as approval of financial reports, transfer of assigned fund balance, and the PHEAA PA Mental Health Education Learning Program in Schools (PA HELPS) Grant. The board also discussed FNB lending options related to a budget impasse and passed a resolution to end the State Budget Impasse. Other topics included curriculum instruction plan updates, district policy updates, agreements with Butler YMCA and Roenigk for vehicle rental, and updates on gas and electric consortiums. The board also approved Lauren Manzer as the part-time Communications Manager. The Superintendent reported on the upcoming Fall Play and the Field of Flags for Disabled Veterans program.