Karen Barnes

The board received reports from students, principals, and the Thunderbolt Foundation, which included updates on curriculum pilots, counselor recognition, and fundraising efforts. Public comments addressed the need for policies regarding AI, custodial staffing concerns, athletic planning, and policy updates related to social media conduct. Action was taken on several financial and budgetary items, including the approval of a transportation agreement, the 2026-2027 YAA operational budget, and improvements for baseball and softball facilities. Additionally, the board handled personnel matters, including staff hires, resignations, and the appointment of a board secretary, and discussed updates regarding the Adams County Technical Institute and various curriculum resources.

The board approved various financial items including donations, technology purchases, carpet replacement, and HVAC replacements funded by a School Facility Improvement Grant. Payment of multiple fund invoices was also authorized. Personnel actions included approving a superintendent search agreement, staff hires, resignations, volunteer appointments, and contracted driver services, along with an out-of-state field trip for the Astronomy Club. Curriculum and policy approvals covered the FFA Booster Club bylaws, K-12 Guidance Plan, and new science curriculum for elementary grades. Additionally, the board held a discussion on the first reading of policies concerning curriculum review, service animals in schools, and the use of generative artificial intelligence in education.

The meeting commenced with procedural formalities and a period for public comment, where concerns were raised regarding Policy 9003 concerning public speaking restrictions, citing potential violations of First Amendment rights and the Sunshine Act. The main discussion focused on presentations and reviews related to curriculum, co-curriculum, and policy, specifically concerning science resources. Presenters reviewed pilot program feedback for Mystery Science, detailing overwhelmingly positive student survey results regarding engagement, enjoyment, and understanding of science concepts. The presentation highlighted how the curriculum aligns with new science standards (STEELS), supports critical thinking skills like observation and evidence-based reasoning, and offers strong cross-curricular connections, particularly with math. The goal of the review was to determine the next steps for adopting the Mystery Science curriculum across grades K-5.

The meeting included student representative reports and building principal reports covering topics such as Winter Keystones, Xtra Math, iReady diagnostics, and music concert planning. The Thunderbolt Foundation Report emphasized advocacy, the success of the Care Closet, and the availability of teacher/student grants. Public comment included concerns regarding board conduct and the district's long-term financial trajectory due to rising costs, as well as issues related to district enrollment, cyber schooling, and allegations of cyberbullying. The Finance & Budget Committee Report addressed the PA Leadership Charter School settlement, facility requests, the 2026-2027 LIU General Operating Budget, an Operations and Maintenance Agreement with Stormwater Management, an increase in LPN starting wages to $25.00/hr, approval of capital projects, and review of donations and invoice payments. Discussions during the finance segment included solicitor fees and compliance. The Curriculum, Co-Curriculum, & Policy Committee Report involved the first reading of several policies (Tobacco and Vaping Products, Controlled Substance Abuse, Tuition Income, etc.) and the final reading/approval of other policies (Academic Standards, Discrimination/Harassment, etc.) and the 2026-2027 Academic Calendar. Additional reports covered ACTI financial updates and the Superintendent search process. New Business included discussion about the pending lawsuit involving Ms. Susanne Johnson and solicitor reports.

The Regular Board Meeting included actions taken under Finance, Property, & Supplies, which involved approving a Transportation Agreement, the 2026-2027 YAA Operational Budget, authorizing the advertisement for bidding on Baseball/Softball improvements, approving the Spring Musical event, and accepting an anonymous donation. Payments for various funds (General, Cafeteria, Student Activity, Capital Projects) were also approved. The Personnel Report covered approvals for the Board Secretary Job Description and the appointment of Thomas Showvaker to that role. Several staff hires for coaching and instructional roles were approved, alongside the acceptance of staff resignations/retirements. Approvals were also given for volunteers, a Contracted Driver, 2026 Spring Coaches, and several overnight or out-of-state trips for conferences and academic purposes. Under Curriculum, Co-Curriculum, and Policy, approvals were granted for ELA Pilot Resources and the Littlestown Area School District Branding Guide. The final reading of several policies and procedures, including those related to Tobacco and Vaping Products, Controlled Substance Abuse, Tuition Income, and Travel Reimbursement, was also approved.