The resignation of Sara Strunk was a focus of the meeting. Her departure, attributed to personal reasons, prompted the board to initiate the process of filling the vacancy. The board expressed appreciation for her service and resolved to ensure a smooth transition. Discussions highlighted the need to appoint a new member by the December 4th meeting, enabling the appointee’s participation in the January organizational meeting. The board plans to post the vacancy and accept applications, aiming to reach a broad audience, including previous applicants, through various channels such as social media. Additionally, a special election will be necessary next year, as the vacancy will extend beyond two years.

Financial matters were also at the forefront of the meeting, beginning with the approval of payment claims totaling $335,500.24, alongside wire payments of $469,500. Notably, $40,200 was allocated for one semester of classes, sparking a discussion on the return on investment in educational expenditures. The board considered optimizing elective courses to enhance educational opportunities and value. Payments to other schools for services, including a $6,600 payment to Southwest State, were also scrutinized.

Insurance payments were another point of concern, as monthly payments to Gladfelter had increased to $112,000. The board discussed adjustments for payments between volleyball and football, reflecting efforts to manage expenditures accurately. Additionally, the district’s milk vendor situation was addressed, noting the cost-effectiveness of purchasing from Stony Creek compared to Cisco.

The meeting also included a presentation of committee reports, with an emphasis on the superintendent’s evaluation. Three primary areas for development were identified: communication, leadership, and finance. Improved communication within the district and community was deemed essential, with a plan to keep stakeholders informed. Leadership discussions focused on clarifying the organizational chain of command, while financial discussions highlighted the importance of balancing the budget and developing a long-term facility plan.

The board was informed of positive feedback from a local veteran, praising students for their exemplary behavior during a visit to Applebee’s following a musical performance. A thank-you card from a veteran further underscored the importance of student engagement in community events, strengthening the connection between students and veterans.

A community task force meeting was scheduled for the evening, with plans to discuss priorities identified through previous site visits. The board discussed engaging a demographer for a long-term enrollment study, crucial for future planning. Complications arose due to an exclusive contract held by a recommended demographer, prompting the exploration of alternative options.

A leadership conference was announced for January 16th and 17th, with board members encouraged to attend. New members were reminded of their statutory training obligations, emphasizing the need for early registration due to hotel booking and cancellation policies.

Upcoming events were noted, including parent-teacher conferences the following week, with an early release planned beforehand. A no-school day and Thanksgiving break were also scheduled. A fifth and sixth-grade concert was set for December 3rd, and a professional development early release day was scheduled for December 4th, coinciding with the Truth and Taxation committee meeting. An audit presentation was planned for the December 18th meeting.