A grandparent raising her grandson spoke during Monday’s meeting of the Bradford Area School District, sharing one story of the effects of coronavirus precautionary measures.
Tina Johnston, who is raising her nine-year-old grandson, spoke of a “heart wrenching experience” she faced. She shared that her grandson had been quarantined for the seventh time over the course of the coronavirus pandemic and the first time this school year — none of which thus far had resulted in him becoming ill. She spoke of his struggle with reading due to these periods out of school and a struggle to get him connected remotely, despite conversations with the district’s IT staff.
She also stated that Monday, after getting him logged on and ready to attend a session for special help for reading, that his teacher was unable to get her microphone to work properly and the session was canceled.
“We need to do better for our children,” she said in closing.
Student representative Ryley Cleveland shared that the high school held a Halloween door decorating competition prior to the holiday. She noted that there were many talented students, and she was unsure of who the winners for the competition were.
Both Cleveland and Superintendent Katy Pude reminded district residents that the Bradford High girls’ and boys’ soccer teams will be competing in the first round of the PIAA State Championships at Parkway Field, hosting Montour (5 p.m.) and West Allegany (7 p.m.) respectively. Tickets are only available at the PIAA website.
Students and community members are encouraged to wear red and black today in support of the Owls.
Pude shared that the district has been approved to receive in excess of $47,000 for use in partnership with the YWCA to provide shelter for youth in the district who are homeless as well as for short stays for families and school supplies, including clothing, for those in need.
In other business, the district approved the resignations of BAHS Health/Physical Education teacher Randy Ruffner, effective Nov. 23, and BAHS Electrical Occupations teacher Michael Wilber, effective Jan. 14, 2022. The resignation of middle school wrestling coach Steffan Chaussard was also approved, along with the hiring of Mark Havers, Sr., to the position for 2021-22.
Ashly Colosimo was hired as assistant coach for high school cheerleading and Ben Koss was hired as an assistant coach for varsity boys and girls swimming.
Emily Treat was hired as a teacher at George G. Blaisdell Elementary, effective Dec. 13. Her salary will be $42,468.
Also during the visitors’ portion of the meeting, Tanya Wilbon introduced herself as Chapter Chair for Moms for Liberty’s McKean County Chapter. Wilbon explained the group is 60,000 members strong in 152 chapters since Jan. 1.
The group is “dedicated to the survival of America by unifying, educating and empowering parents to defend their parental rights at all levels of government.” Wilbon stated new members are welcome.
Local resident Harold Skaggs shared concerns regarding the concentration of Carbon Dioxide in the air students are breathing in regard to mask wearing, noting that he hopes the district’s teachers are properly trained in how to put on masks, as OSHA requires training for anyone in the workplace who has to put on a facial covering.
