Julie A. McAllister

The board discussed and approved several key items, including the WASD Comprehensive Plan (2026-2029), the Act 48 Professional Development Plan, and Chapter 4 Academic Standards and Assessment Requirements. The board authorized agreements for the INSPIRE program, speech services, nonpublic transportation, and contracts for bread and milk services for the 2026-2027 school year. Additionally, the board approved an RFP for district solicitor services and reviewed several policies. Updates were provided regarding the superintendent's report, committee reports, and state budget funding.

The board addressed a wide range of personnel matters, including tenure approvals, staff compensation plans for administrators and support staff, and a settlement agreement. Key educational and operational items included the renewal of service agreements for school-based services and virtual speech therapy, the initiation of the public review period for the district comprehensive and professional development plans, approval of insurance premiums for the upcoming year, and setting school meal prices. Additionally, the board discussed local municipal tax initiatives and received administrative updates regarding summer meal programs, construction projects, and legislative updates on student cell phone policies.

The committee discussed various academic and administrative topics, including homework policies, wellness guidelines, and high school and elementary school enrollment. Key points included clarifying homework practices for elementary grades, reviewing recess and food survey procedures, managing staffing changes and course selections, and evaluating class sizes in Kindergarten. Additionally, the committee reviewed feedback regarding high school cell phone policies and established new criteria for 8th-grade language class recommendations.

The board meeting covered several significant items, including the superintendent's report on district successes and upcoming staff appreciation efforts. The board president issued a statement regarding a personnel matter, confirming the reinstatement of an employee effective July 1st. Various business actions were taken, including the resignation and replacement of a board treasurer, approval of a pre-kindergarten grant program, and the authorization of a School-Based Access Program. Additionally, the board approved several financial and infrastructure items, such as bond debt for capital projects, the replacement of stadium lights, and asbestos mitigation. Committee reports were provided regarding academic policies, budget savings, and facilities.

This Comprehensive Plan for Waynesboro Area School District aims to empower individuals and graduate responsible citizens prepared for an evolving society. It outlines a mission to empower individuals for future opportunities and a vision to graduate responsible citizens prepared to work, serve, succeed, and compete. Key priorities include reviewing and aligning ELA and Math curricula, and strengthening family and community partnerships to improve student attendance. The plan sets measurable goals such as 90% student achievement and growth in ELA and Math by June 2026, and 82% regular attendance by June 2024, through evidence-based strategies, professional development, and consistent communication.