Miguel Cruz

The meeting commenced with the Pledge of Allegiance and a moment of silence. Two executive sessions were noted, one on February 12, 2026, and one immediately preceding this meeting on February 26, 2026, covering personnel matters, including performance, discipline negotiations, and legal issues. The Student Government President provided an update on school activities, noting the upcoming virtual Minithon kickoff, the drama club production of "Into the Woods Junior," and the March Madness food drive competition between students and teachers. A significant portion of the meeting involved a budget presentation from MCTI representatives concerning the funding formula based on ADMs across four Monroe County districts, noting Pleasant Valley's substantial enrollment growth and contribution percentage. Key budget drivers discussed included the launch of a new First Responder program featuring criminal justice, firefighting, and EMT certification opportunities, and the need to hire an instructional assistant (assistant chef) for the culinary program due to increased demands from the Laurel Lake Cafe and catering services. Increases in healthcare and utilities costs were also noted. The presenter highlighted that MCTI is debt-free and uses grants for large equipment purchases. The net budget increase, after accounting for state vocational subsidy funds returned to districts, was approximately $137,000. Capital planning was also discussed, noting a healthy capital fund balance of $2.3 million, with plans to utilize an awarded grant for future needs. A major upcoming capital project is connecting to public sewer infrastructure due to the liability of the existing 1970s treatment plant, for which grant funding is being pursued. Furthermore, the significant student waitlist, currently at 530 students for the open enrollment month, necessitates exploring program growth options, including satellite sites or utilizing community college space. The Secretary's report requested approval for the minutes of the January 22, 2026 meeting and the agenda for the current February 26, 2026 meeting. The Treasurer sought approval for financial items 4A through H.

The meeting included an executive session concerning personnel matters, performance, and legal issues, with plans for a second executive session afterward. Key agenda items involved reaffirming the adoption of PSBA principles of governance and leadership. Student body updates highlighted the reopening of the renovated science hallway (H hallway) and library with new furniture, as well as the renovation of the JCM bathroom and the opening of two additional staircases. Other discussions included recognizing School Board Directors for January Recognition Month, which featured reading a proclamation from the Pennsylvania School Board Association. The Education Report covered a science curriculum resource recommendation (Twigs), updates on the ELA review, and legislative mandates from Acts 135 and 47 impacting teacher training. Updates were also provided on the American 250 initiative and highlights from PVE, including 99% participation in parent-teacher conferences and the utilization of MAP fluency technology. The Capital Improvement report detailed progress on the high school renovation, the demolition of the old auditorium, and the upcoming intermediate school chiller project. New business included making a change to agenda item 15B3 regarding federal funding assistance for program applications.

The document details the Organization Meeting followed by the Regular Meeting. Key organizational actions included the election of Mrs. Sue Kresge as Board President (5-4-0 vote) and Mr. Ryan O'Keefe as Vice President (5-3-1 vote). Appointments were made for MCTI JOC Representatives and the PSBA Liaison. The Regular Meeting commenced after the Organization Meeting adjourned. Discussions included solicitor comments on agenda modifications under the Sunshine Act, various report updates (Athletic, Capital Improvement Plan), and the approval of numerous operational and personnel items. Personnel actions involved the hiring of a Security Officer, approval of supplemental contracts for club advisors, and informational items on resignations. Operations included approval for multiple facility usage requests for various programs like youth wrestling and track and field camps. Business Management approved Accounts Payable, a contract for an evaporator coil replacement, and the 2025-2026 Spring Athletic Supplies and Equipment Bid. Curriculum included the approval of two field trips for the 7th/8th Grade Band.

This document outlines the Pleasant Valley School District's high school graduation requirements for the Class of 2027 and subsequent classes, detailing credit requirements for various subjects. It also presents a range of academic opportunities, including new course offerings, Advanced Placement, Concurrent Enrollment, and Dual Enrollment programs. Furthermore, the document provides a timeline and detailed instructions for the student course scheduling process, along with guidance for MCTI students.

The key discussion centered on the use of cell phones during school hours, prompted by a teacher survey encompassing 13 questions and yielding 155 responses across grades K-12, with most issues occurring at the middle and high school levels. Topics included enforcement difficulties, teacher use of devices, and preparing students for college-level technology use. The committee debated various collection methods, such as locker storage versus in-class collection using cubby systems, and liability concerns for lost or damaged phones. A potential upcoming state bill that would return decision-making authority to districts was also discussed. Sentiment among the committee was that 71% opposed having cell phones available throughout the entire day.