Panther Valley School District

The board discussed and evaluated two options presented by The Garland Company regarding roofing system deficiencies at district facilities. Option 1 involves a comprehensive remediation plan to address leaks and repair existing roofing at no cost to the district, while Option 2 proposes a capital replacement project where the district receives material credits valued at approximately $500,000 toward a new high-performance roofing system, with the district responsible for estimated installation and labor costs of $1,590,000.

The meeting included personnel actions such as accepting resignations, hiring staff for various roles, and approving leaves of absence. Financial items included the authorization of bill payments, the adoption of the preliminary final budget for the upcoming school year, and approvals for tax-related writs of execution. Educational and operational topics featured the approval of a summer food service program, various teacher professional development courses, mentor assignments, teacher transfers, and student homebound instruction. Additionally, the board reviewed and revised several district policies, including those related to charter schools, transportation, and threat assessment.

The board reviewed several personnel recommendations, including resignations, new hires for cafeteria and paraprofessional roles, and approvals for professional conferences and coursework. Financial reports and bill payments across the General, Cafeteria, and Purchasing Card funds were reviewed for approval. The agenda included approvals for athletic coaching assignments, sports hall of fame sponsorship, a summer food service program, an intergovernmental agreement for special education, volunteer and mentor appointments, and the adoption of the school calendar, program of studies, and K-12 guidance plan. Additionally, the board processed the first and second readings of various policies related to school security, student discipline, attendance, and emergency preparedness.

The meeting included an Executive Session followed by the main session. Key personnel actions included accepting the resignation of an Elementary School Nurse and approving the hiring of a replacement, effective February 2, 2026. The Board ratified and approved several professional conferences and granted permission for multiple staff members to take continuing education courses. Financial items involved approving and ratifying payments for the General Fund, Cafeteria Fund, and Purchasing Cards, as well as approving three Writs of Execution for outstanding property taxes in Summit Hill and Nesquehoning Boroughs. Budget approvals included the proposed Operating Budget for the Carbon Career and Technical Institute for 2026-2027, the Carbon Lehigh Intermediate Unit #21 Budget for 2025-2026, and the Lehigh Carbon Community College Budget for 2026-2027. Personnel decisions included granting tenure to one teacher and approving revised start dates for three other employees. The Board also approved a contract for Student Nursing Services.

The agenda includes welcoming visitors, roll call to encourage more involvement from parents and school affiliates, and a presentation on successful inclusion throughout life. The meeting also involves agency and committee reports covering updates from organizations like The Arc, Carbon Lehigh Intermediate Unit 21, and Lehigh County Developmental Programs. Discussions will be held on membership, compliance monitoring, in-service activities, and legislation updates, including the impact of federal layoffs on special education. The chairperson will provide updates on the State Task Force and upcoming training events.