The meeting commenced with a presentation by Matt Wilderson from Ber and Ritter, who provided insights into the district’s financial audit. Wilderson reported a “clean opinion” on the district’s financial statements. He highlighted a change in accounting principles regarding compensated absences but reassured the board there were no material weaknesses in the district’s internal controls. The audit of the school lunch program, benefiting from approximately $2.6 million in federal subsidies, also passed without issues. This financial assessment is important for stakeholders, including bondholders and the federal government.

Following the audit, the board discussed updates on state legislation impacting school funding. The recently passed state general fund budget included a $2.27 billion increase, benefiting Susquehanna Township with a 21.2% increase in state funding. This increase is vital for reducing the district’s reliance on property taxes, with adequacy funding jumping from $1.55 million to $3.44 million. The budget also maintained funding for the student teacher stipend and literacy initiatives.

Another major topic was the financial strategy involving cyber charter tuition reform. The board approved a policy change that returns a portion of cyber charter tuition funding to local school districts, including Susquehanna Township, which anticipates receiving nearly $142,000. This reform addresses concerns over the misuse of funds by some cyber charter schools and aims to alleviate financial pressures on public education.

The meeting took a more personal turn during public comments, particularly regarding the dismissal of Coach George, which prompted strong reactions from student athletes. Abenezer Muse and Ari Musi, student athletes, expressed discontent over the decision, citing a decline in team participation and morale. Muse noted a significant drop in workout attendance and criticized the lack of communication regarding the dismissal. The board president emphasized that such issues should be addressed through appropriate channels, such as the athletic director, to ensure constructive dialogue.

The board also acknowledged the accomplishments of students, with a notable recognition of a Dolphin County teenager, Jeremiah Stepp. Stepp’s quick action in saving his father’s life using CPR learned in a health class highlighted the life-saving potential of educational programs. This incident reinforced the importance of CPR training, a skill that the board has prioritized in collaboration with the American Heart Association.

Discussion around the district’s budget for the upcoming fiscal years revealed a projected deficit, albeit reduced due to state funding allocations. The board recognized the challenges of underfunded mandates and rising costs, which exceed tax increase limits. Transportation updates highlighted efforts to address bus driver shortages, with contracted services supplementing the district’s fleet to ensure operational readiness.

The meeting also addressed broader issues of governance and accountability. Community member Clifton Edwards advocated for recognizing long-serving board member Linda Butler by naming the boardroom or table in her honor. He urged the board to establish objective performance standards to measure progress effectively. Willie Harmon highlighted the need for transparency regarding board member attendance and proposed engaging students as poll workers to increase civic participation.

As the meeting concluded, the board approved various administrative items, including personnel actions and a new school calendar. A motion to support district-initiated tax assessment appeals received unanimous backing.