SMETHPORT — The Smethport Area School Board adopted a resolution Tuesday supporting Senate Bill 34 and House Bill 528 regarding school districts providing their own cyber learning programs.
The resolution cites the growing number of the state’s school districts that are responding to the need to successfully operate high-quality, full-time cyber education programs within their traditional district programs that provide flexibility and personalized options as a choice for students and families. It also notes the students’ smooth transition to and from the traditional school setting with opportunities to participate in district instructional courses and extracurricular activities.
Additionally, the resolution notes that the Commonwealth is the sole authorizer of cyber charter schools, yet the tuition costs for students attending these schools are borne by the school districts and local taxpayers. Public schools, according to the resolution, that operate high-performing cyber programs can do so at a significantly reduced cost as compared to paying tuition to a cyber charter school, enabling them to retain critical funding in the districts for all students.
The directors also approved some personnel matters. Dana Elmquist was appointed a school psychologist for the 2019-20 school year, pending final certification. Jacey Duzick-Forness was hired as the Extended School Year teacher from July 1 to July 25 at her per diem rate. Jodi Fitzsimmons was appointed a full-time special education aide.
In another vote, the board, in a 6-0 decision, with one abstention and two absentees, approved the Seneca Highlands Intermediate Unit 9 General Operating Budget, which amounts to $1,051,258. Smethport’s share is estimated to be $33,363.
Directors accepted the $50 bid from Duffy Inc. for the purchase of a mobile home in East Smethport that had been in the County Repository as requested by the McKean County Tax Claim Bureau.
In his report, Superintendent David London announced that this Thursday is an in-service day for teachers and no classes for students. After the Easter vacation, classes will resume on April 24 as a snow make-up day.
