Shakanda White

The meeting featured a policy committee report highlighting state requirements, including the adoption of a structured literacy curriculum and new FAFSA completion mandates. The facilities department provided updates on upcoming renovations at multiple district schools, including lighting, ceiling, flooring, and security system upgrades. The treasurer’s report addressed the district’s receivership status, the development of the 2026-2027 budget, and concerns regarding charter school tuition. A legislative report covered pending state and federal education funding, including Title I and IDEA allocations, as well as new laws related to cursive instruction and AED requirements at sporting venues.

The committee meeting covered a variety of educational and facility-related topics. Discussions included the adoption of evidence-based literacy curriculum and FAFSA completion requirements for upcoming graduating classes. The facilities report detailed ongoing and planned renovations across district buildings, including lighting, ceiling, and security system upgrades. The treasurer and legislative report emphasized financial monitoring, the impact of charter school tuition on the district's deficit, upcoming legislative developments related to education funding, and the implementation of recent state laws concerning school safety and sporting equipment.

This strategic plan outlines the future direction for the Chester Upland School District, aiming to provide all students the opportunity to achieve excellence in Academics, Athletics, the Arts, and Activities, with a vision for every student to be college and career ready. The plan is built upon core principles of 'Children First,' 'One Chester Upland,' 'Reimagining' through continuous improvement, and ensuring 'Equity, Excellence, and Emotional Intelligence.' Key focus areas include promoting academic achievement, developing career technical education, improving technology use, and expanding the 'Four As.' Strategic priorities involve establishing a value chain and revisiting district and individual school targets across all grade levels, and clarifying major goals encompassing strategy, numeracy, climate and culture, and family and community empowerment, all supported by effective continuous improvement and culturally relevant instruction.

The meeting focused on key administrative and financial agenda items. Discussions included an overview of a proposed bond refinancing project for the 2011-A and 2011-C bonds, aimed at achieving significant interest rate savings for the district. The district also reviewed and approved a health and safety plan regarding the reopening of schools, with a decision to initiate the academic year via remote learning. Additionally, the district presented an athletic safety plan and addressed personnel actions, including a resignation and a stipend approval for a safety coordinator.

The meeting included an update on the amended recovery plan recently accepted by the judge, with plans for upcoming public community meetings to discuss the district's progress and academic focus. The Superintendent reported on participation in the UN Nations General Assembly science summit, discussed improvements in financial progress, and provided information on new online resources for parents, including lunch menus and updated contact forms. Main Street Elementary School presented on their successful back-to-school initiatives, collaborative grade-level planning, and upward trends in PSSA results. Public comments addressed positive building improvements, the desire for library access, requests for student government presentations, and appreciation for the scholarship application process.