West Chester Area School District

The meeting focused on primary prevention and strategies to support youth well-being within the community. Key discussion topics included data from the Pennsylvania Youth Survey regarding youth mental health, substance use trends, and the influence of social media on depressive symptoms. The coalition highlighted the importance of enhancing protective factors, such as community and school involvement, and provided guidance on implementing safe home practices, including the use of medication lock boxes and proper disposal of prescriptions. The presentation also addressed shifting cultural norms regarding substance use and the need for parents to have informed conversations with youth.

The board meeting included a review of various district policies, such as the employee dress code, student parking, and integrated pest management, along with updates to administrative guidelines. The meeting also featured student presentations from Stetson Middle School, highlighting their experiences in music, athletics, and academic enrichment programs.

The committee meeting covered a review of the budget forecast model for the upcoming fiscal year. Key topics included modifications to salary projections for professionals and craft/trades staff, a net-zero impact adjustment for educational supplies related to furniture for a new high school schedule, and anticipated savings in medical benefits and charter school tuitions. The meeting further addressed proposed tax millage increases for residents in Chester and Delaware Counties, an analysis of expenditures and revenue trends, and an explanation of the state-mandated market value calculations influencing tax distribution between the two counties.

The committee reviewed the May budget forecast model and discussed millage calculations for Chester and Delaware counties. They recommended the adoption of the 2026-27 Homestead/Farmstead Exclusion Resolution, the Final Budget Resolution, and the Annual Tax Levy Resolution. Additionally, the committee discussed authorization to commit and assign fund balances, approved a three-year service agreement for a new telecommunications platform, and reviewed facilities and operations benchmarking. Bid awards for several 2025-26 and 2026-27 capital reserve projects were recommended for approval, including switchgear cleaning, sidewalk and curb repairs, flooring replacements, inlet repairs, and drainage improvements. A new budget allocation was recommended to support the high school Lunch and Learn process.

The committee reviewed key district priorities and addressed several action items. These included the adoption of core instructional material for elementary ELA, strategic leadership initiatives with UPenn, leadership team development with CCIU, and an application for FID. Additionally, the committee reviewed monthly routine items to be included on the Board Consent Agenda.