Valerie Bennett

The committee discussed the comprehensive plan, including the necessity of professional consulting services from Partnership for Excellence, and authorized moving forward with a recommendation. Furthermore, the committee reviewed the 2015-2016 program of studies, noting changes to prerequisites, course sequences, and the addition of new technology, math, and music courses. Discussions also covered the current instructional coaching model, requirements for Keystone exams, project-based assessments, and graduation criteria.

The committee discussed updates on the GESA energy savings project, including status reports on HVAC and lighting installations. Progress on the Boyertown Area Senior High (BASH) construction project was reviewed, with a focus on recent milestones, change orders, and the addition of date-stones for building history. The committee also evaluated a proposed contract extension for the construction manager, D'Huy Engineering, and reviewed recent change orders related to structural and system modifications. Additionally, the committee discussed the submission of PlanCon D and E forms to the Pennsylvania Department of Education for the JHW project, water usage at Memorial Stadium, and future meeting scheduling.

The committee discussed a range of financial and operational topics, including the necessity of annual tax increases for district support. Key updates were provided on cyber and hybrid learning programs, technology leasing initiatives involving additional computer acquisitions, and proposed internal leases to fund network access control, virtual server environments, and support for the bring your own device initiative. Additionally, the committee reviewed an advance refunding opportunity for general obligation bonds, a three-year budget forecast, the 2012-13 budget deficit, tax equalization methods, and adjustments to the administrative work schedule.

The committee reviewed a list of professional retirements and new positions proposed for the upcoming budget, subsequently authorizing the administration to initiate the recruitment and screening process. Furthermore, an update was provided on the District Wellness Committee, highlighting the development of a biometric screening schedule aimed at promoting healthy lifestyles and the introduction of a new wellness committee logo.

The committee meeting featured a presentation from Banyan Consulting, which provided medical utilization reports and an analysis of prescription drug utilization and costs covering three plan years.