01:55:48A considerable portion of the discussion was dedicated to the honors broadcasting class, which faced potential cancellation due to low enrollment. The board contemplated changes in the TV production program, planning revisions for the 2025-2026 school year. Only eight students expressed interest in the class, a drop from the previous year’s enrollment of 16. Public concerns about the accuracy of reported student registrations led to suggestions for outreach to confirm numbers. The board discussed the importance of prerequisite coursework for honors classes, considering whether criteria could be broadened to allow more students to participate.

01:27:38The conversation also acknowledged that over 20 elective courses were not scheduled for the upcoming year. The board debated whether they should allow the honors broadcasting class to run with fewer students, considering budgetary and staffing implications. The importance of balancing course offerings with student demand was stressed, as fluctuating popularity of courses necessitates a comprehensive evaluation of elective options. Concerns were raised about the impact on students’ college applications, as advanced coursework is often crucial for college preparation.

21:44In addition to the discussion on electives, the meeting involved an audit presentation by Scott Cleen. Despite challenges with vacancies and illnesses in the business office extending the timeline, the audit received a “clean opinion,” reflecting accurate financial information and a positive financial position. The general fund increased by $4.4 million, with a fund balance of approximately $4.6 million used in the recently approved budget. The district prudently set aside funds for capital projects and maintenance reserves, with cafeteria operations also reported as financially healthy.

01:50:49Cleen noted an increase in audit findings compared to previous years, attributed to staffing issues. He stressed the importance of a corrective action plan to address these challenges. The board transitioned to the superintendent’s report, celebrating Teacher Appreciation Week and recognizing student achievements, including college acceptances and National Honor Society inductions.

15:57Student representatives provided updates on their peers’ college destinations, including one attending Georgetown University for global health and another heading to Carnegie Mellon University for computer science. They discussed ongoing AP testing and preparations for Ramboozle, the student council’s major end-of-year event. The representatives also highlighted upcoming events, such as the senior awards ceremony, a senior trip to Hershey Park, and a SEAL literacy recognition session.

01:39:03The board reviewed mandated policies, including student eligibility, harassment, and spectator conduct. Discussions about electronic surveillance in schools clarified that recorded materials could serve as evidence in disciplinary contexts. The board also addressed the implications of recent administrative decisions mandating a minimum enrollment of 15 students for electives. A member of the public, Jay Guza, expressed frustration over the cancellation of his senior year electives, questioning the reasoning behind the policy.

01:33:02Further discussion focused on the middle school world language program, which will shift to an every-other-day schedule for seventh and eighth graders. This change aims to address teacher shortages while maintaining a meaningful curriculum experience. The board welcomed Dr. Aluga as the new principal of MHK, expressing optimism about her leadership and transition support.