Susan Donat

The board meeting covered several key items, including a report on the Franklin County Career and Technology Center, policy committee discussions, curriculum data summaries, and the state budget address. Action items approved included the WHYTRY Program for the middle school, the appointment of a tax collector for the borough, and the approval of a booster club clinic. The meeting also addressed personnel matters including professional tenure, staffing appointments, and supplemental staff assignments for various school sports. Future agenda items were previewed, including grant approvals, facility maintenance bids, and district calendar revisions.

The Board of School Directors held a planning and action meeting where they discussed Keystone testing and accountability, received an enrollment report, and reviewed donations to the district. They heard a presentation on the Blues Program and discussed updated athletic attendance procedures, which were subsequently approved. Further discussions took place regarding the hybrid learning model for secondary students, leading to a vote to continue virtual learning for grades 6-12 through the second marking period, and a proposal to return special education students to face-to-face instruction, which failed. The Board approved the purchase of a box truck, increased three part-time custodial positions to full-time, and added a special education teaching position. Additionally, the Board approved a contract with BTI School Services, LLC, and Aliff Counseling Services, LLC, as well as an agreement with River Rock Academy. Consent items included personnel resignations, leaves of absence, the purchase of bottle fillers, and a student expulsion case.

The Board of School Directors discussed several topics during their work session, including revisions to the bus discipline policy, a dress code amendment, and food service equipment replacement. During the meeting, the Board received reports on district enrollment, curriculum, and the 2018 Summer Food Service Program. Action items included personnel changes such as resignations, retirements, and new hires, as well as approvals for student field trips, Sunday use of school facilities, and the formation of a new student club. The board also authorized the renewal of an automated calling system contract, approved a grant submission for school safety and security, and discussed the procurement of food service management services. Additionally, they reviewed board member concerns regarding substitute teacher availability and student bullying policies.

The Board discussed and took action on numerous items including student representative reports, personnel appointments for professional and support staff, and various financial matters. Key topics included the approval of a donation from The Giant Company, the disposal of obsolete textbooks, a new subscription for Read Naturally, and several Memorandums of Understanding regarding staff roles, athletic partnerships, and school programs. The Board also reviewed and authorized the issuance of General Obligation Bonds, approved design services for school facilities with EI Associates, validated the design direction for high school athletic improvements, and approved a mental health service agreement with Care Solace.

The Board discussed the new meeting agenda structure and several operational items, including the draft 2020-2021 High School Program of Studies and a proposed job description for an Athletic/After School Study Hall Monitor. Action items approved included personnel appointments, resignations, leaves of absence, a field trip request, an electricity contract, a partnership with the Franklin County Visitors Bureau, an Employee Assistance Program contract, and a healthcare staffing agreement. A discussion was also held regarding the stadium project and the necessity of reviewing all options to address district athletic needs.