Lindsey Cookson

The board approved a variety of operational and financial items, including the Treasurer's Report and Accounts Payable, as well as the purchase of new equipment such as helmets, dishwashers, and furniture for schools funded by grants. The board authorized a new contract for wireless network equipment and rejected specific wireless bridge bids. Financial resolutions included assigning funds for a high school building project and accepting a donation. Personnel actions involved multiple hirings for teaching and support roles, approval of leave requests, and volunteer appointments. Academic and community initiatives were advanced through a new affiliation agreement, a student survey program, and a student-led blood drive. Additionally, the board conducted first and second readings of numerous district policies regarding operations, personnel, and student conduct.

The board discussed various administrative, operational, and financial matters. Key items included the approval of multiple policy readings such as those regarding purchasing, attendance, dress code, and security personnel. Financial actions included approving purchases for helmets, dishwashers, and furniture, as well as entering into a wireless networking contract and assigning funds for a high school building project. Personnel approvals covered the hiring of teaching staff, a band and choir director, and a custodian, along with various substitute and volunteer roles. The curriculum report detailed approval for several staff conferences and student trips. Additionally, the board reviewed administration reports on school police, food service, technology, maintenance, and special education, and discussed future grants and security needs.

This document outlines the Union School District's comprehensive special education plan, detailing its approach to identifying, supporting, and educating students with disabilities. It covers student demographics, strategies for ensuring education in the least restrictive environment, and a continuum of academic, social, and emotional supports including the Multi-Tiered System of Support (MTSS) and Positive Behavior Support programs. The plan also addresses facilities, staff professional development, oversight of non-resident and incarcerated students, and interagency collaboration, all while affirming adherence to state and federal special education guidelines.

Key items discussed and approved included the Treasurer's Report for January 2026 and the Accounts Payable List for February 2026. Approvals covered an athletic department software purchase, the Riverview IU6 2026-2027 General Operating Budget, and engagement letters for the 2026 fiscal year audit and the 2025 tax collectors audit. Personnel actions included accepting a custodian's retirement, approving PTO volunteers, and granting various leaves of absence (unpaid, intermittent, and paid Family Medical Leave). The Board approved the 2026-2027 school calendar, a revision to the 2025-2026 calendar, and authorizing an application for a Public School Facility Grant, including commitment of the 25% local match. Facility usage permissions were granted to the Southern Clarion County Little League and for a hunter safety course. The Board also approved compensation adjustments for transportation contractors during remote instruction and delayed days, retroactive to the 2025-2026 school year, and conducted readings for several policies. Motions to approve cooperative agreements for multiple sports with Allegheny-Clarion Valley School District failed.

The meeting agenda covered several items, including correspondence from the PA Department of Education regarding a substantially compliant Single Audit Report for the fiscal year ended June 30, 2025, and notification that proposed tax rate increases are within the allowable index. Key discussions included a presentation on options for an Athletic Trainer and various administrative reports covering police activity, technology support tickets, maintenance issues such as boiler and HVAC unit failures, and elementary principal feedback on curriculum execution and staff training needs. Board business included the second reading approval of Policy No. 218.1 regarding Weapons, and the first reading of policies concerning Purchases Subject to Bid Quotations, Purchases Budgeted, and Attendance. Financial matters involved approval of the January Treasurer's Report, Accounts Payable List, a three-year purchase agreement for athletic scheduling software, the 2026-2027 Riverview IU6 Budget, and auditor engagement letters. Personnel actions included accepting a custodial retirement and approving several leaves of absence. The Board also addressed facility improvements, authorizing applications for the Public School Facility Grant, approving facility use requests, and discussing retroactive compensation rates for van and Career Center contractors related to remote instruction and 2-hour delay days. Athletic actions included approving several cooperative agreements with Allegheny-Clarion Valley School District for various sports.