Jill Francisco

The Board of Education meeting included various agenda items, such as recognizing student achievements in band, jazz, and Skills USA competitions. Residents raised concerns regarding light pollution from the high school library, suggesting potential mitigations. The Board approved financial matters including payment of bills, the Treasurer's report, and the local audit report. Personnel actions such as resignations, appointments, and leaves were approved. Significant operational approvals included a construction change directive for storm water management at the athletic fields, the issuance of General Obligation Bonds for facility improvements, the appointment of a local auditor, approval of the district's comprehensive plan, and an application for a Public School Facility Improvement grant. Additionally, the Board reviewed several policies, discussed an agreement for teacher induction components, and received an update from the Director of Buildings, Grounds, and Maintenance regarding ongoing and upcoming renovation projects.

The Penn Cambria School District's Comprehensive Plan outlines its commitment to preparing productive citizens in a safe and positive environment through high-quality education. Key priorities include improving foundational math skills, enhancing student reading growth using Science of Reading strategies, increasing regular student attendance, and fostering a safe and supportive school climate to reduce chronic absenteeism.

The board meeting agenda included several key items such as the recognition of the varsity girls basketball team and a wrestling tournament placement. Presentations included a project update from Core/SitelogIQ. The board reviewed and moved to approve financial items, including payment of bills, treasurer's reports, various federal program and general fund reports, and the redemption/transfer of capital project funds. Personnel actions included accepting terminations and resignations of coaching staff and approving appointments for bus drivers, coaching staff, and substitute teachers. Policy updates were addressed, including second readings for policies on hazing, bullying, and naming rights, and a first reading for the wellness policy. New business involved approving change orders for a storage building, authorizing the installation of fencing at the high school softball field, and passing budgets for IU08 and the Admiral Peary Area Vocational-Technical School.

This document outlines the Penn Cambria School District's procedures for identifying and supporting gifted students. It details the Child Find public notice, a three-pronged screening process including universal screeners and staff/parent recommendations, and the multi-criteria evaluation process for eligibility. The plan also describes the continuum of gifted programs offered, including acceleration and enrichment opportunities across elementary, middle, and high school levels, and addresses staffing, professional development, and PIMS reporting for gifted students.

The Penn Cambria School District's Induction Plan is a two-year program designed to provide professional development and support to new educators, including substitutes and veteran educators new to the district. The plan focuses on key areas such as educator ethics and professional conduct, working with diverse learners, classroom and student management, school safety, effective instructional practices, educator effectiveness, and fostering parental and community involvement. It aims to facilitate a smooth transition for new teachers, support their professional growth, and enhance instructional practice and student learning.