Mark DeSalvo

The board meeting addressed various administrative and operational items, including an executive session regarding legal contracts and negotiations. Discussion topics included the review of national honor society by-laws and audit reports. Operational actions involved the approval of student field trips, the second reading of a policy regarding the naming of district facilities, the adoption of new math textbooks, and the public display of a science book series. The board also reviewed federal program agreements, special education service contracts, and audited financial statements. Additionally, the administration received approval to issue a request for proposal for cafeteria freezer and cooler equipment. Personnel actions were taken regarding job descriptions, FMLA leave, summer school staffing, and the appointment of a substitute bus monitor.

This Special Education Plan for Union Area School District outlines strategies to enhance services for students with disabilities. Key initiatives include improving inclusive educational environments and implementing a robust Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS) to address academic and social-emotional needs. The plan details strategies for positive behavior intervention through the 'Scottie Way' program, comprehensive staff training across various special education domains (e.g., autism, behavior support, transition, IEP development), and the provision of appropriate facilities. It also addresses the oversight of non-resident and incarcerated students and ensures a continuum of services.

The meeting commenced with an Executive Session to discuss personnel matters, real estate, legal contracts, and confidential legal issues. Key operational items for approval included the January 2026 Financial & Treasurer's Report, various purchase orders and cafeteria invoices, and authorization for exonerations from the Lawrence County Assessment Office. The Board considered approving the 2026-2027 Midwestern Intermediate Unit IV general operating budget, which represents an increase. Approvals were sought for payments related to the Guy's Mechanical Boiler Project, a Dual Enrollment Program Agreement with Penn State Shenango and the PCC, and a petition related to House Bill 41 concerning school playoff separation. The Board also reviewed and recommended the first reading of Policy 701.1 regarding facility naming, approved the public display of K-6 GoMath textbooks, approved a reconfiguration of school buildings placing Grade 5 at Union Middle School, and approved the 2026-2027 school calendar. Personnel actions included the hiring of a Head Jr. High Baseball Coach and the approval of a Volunteer Jr. High Baseball Coach.

The meeting commenced with an Executive Session to discuss personnel matters including hiring, resignations, real estate, legal contracts, and confidential legal issues. Key operational agenda items included the approval of the December 2025 Financial & Treasurer's Report, approval of Purchase Orders and Cafeteria Invoices, and approval of the 2026 Board Committee Appointments. Personnel actions involved the approval of a resignation for retirement from Accounts Payable, acceptance of a bus driver's resignation for retirement (with placement on the substitute list), changes to Junior High Softball Coaching staff, the hiring of a Head Jr. High Baseball Coach, approval of an FMLA request, placement of a nurse on the substitute list, ratification of a full-time evening custodian hire, and the hiring of a Majorette Advisor.

The Union Area School Board convened to discuss several operational and personnel matters. Key items included budget discussions, approval of a consent agenda covering minutes, purchase orders, financial reports, and cafeteria invoices. The board also considered exonerations, a tax refund for Lowes Home Center, a LERTA application, and payments to Guys Mechanical. Additionally, they reviewed a special education transportation agreement, educational field trips, and a cooperative agreement with Mohawk Area School District for Boys Varsity Soccer. Personnel decisions involved hiring a paraprofessional, accepting resignations of a custodian and an elementary school teacher, hiring boys basketball coaches, and approving an assistant Jr. High Volleyball Coach.