School Board Meeting Minutes
Approved minutes of all School Board meetings are posted to the District website for public access as soon after members' formal approval as is feasible. An official copy of all approved minutes are signed by the Secretary of the Board after approval and retained in the District's Central Office located at 100 East College Avenue, Spring Grove.
2023 Meeting Minutes
- September 18, 2023 Curriculum Committee Meeting Minutes
- September 13, 2023 Buildings and Grounds Committee Meeting Minutes
- September 11, 2023 Directors' Study Forum Minutes
- September 11, 2023 Voting Meeting Minutes
- August 28, 2023 Regular Voting Meeting Minutes
- August 14, 2023 Directors' Study Forum Minutes
- August 14, 2023 Voting Meeting Minutes
- August 7, 2023 Buildings and Grounds Committee Meeting Minutes
- July 17, 2023 Regular Voting Meeting Minutes
- June 26, 2023 Directors' Study Forum Minutes
- June 26, 2023 Voting Meeting Minutes
- June 12, 2023 Directors' Study Forum Minutes
- June 12, 2023 Voting Meeting Minutes
- June 12, 2023 Policy Committee Meeting Minutes
- May 22, 2023 Regular Voting Meeting Minutes
- May 8, 2023 Directors' Study Forum
- May 8, 2023 Voting Meeting Minutes
- May 5, 2023 Building and Grounds Committee Meeting
- April 24, 2023 Regular Voting Meeting Minutes
- April 10, 2023 Directors Study Forum Minutes
- April 10, 2023 Voting Meeting Minutes
- March 27, 2023 Regular Voting Meeting Minutes
- March 13, 2023 Directors' Study Forum Minutes
- March 13, 2023 Voting Meeting Minutes
- February 27, 2023 Regular Voting Meeting Minutes
September 18, 2023 Curriculum Committee Meeting Minutes
SPRING GROVE AREA SCHOOL DISTRICT
BOARD OF SCHOOL DIRECTORS
CURRICULUM COMMITTEE MEETING MINUTES
DATE/TIME of MEETING: September 18, 2023 @ 5:30 PM
LOCATION of MEETING: Spring Grove Area Middle School, 244 Old Hanover Road, Spring Grove, PA
The following School Directors were in attendance: Karen Baum, Doug Stein, Dave Trettel, Nicole Wilson (via Zoom)
The following Spring Grove Area School District were in attendance: Dr. George W. Ioannidis, Superintendent, Dr. Steve Guadagnino, Assistant Superintendent, Dr. Michelle Ludwig, Director of Pupil Services, Suzanne Sterner, Board Recording Secretary
A Curriculum Committee meeting of the Spring Grove Area Board of School Directors was held on Monday, September 18, 2023. Karen Baum called the meeting to order at 5:30 PM.
Review the Plan for the Committee
Dr. Ioannidis stated that the purpose for scheduling this and a series of follow-up Curriculum Committee meetings is to provide an overview of the six-year cyclical process for reviewing and rewriting existing curriculum, ensuring that the District remains current with State and National standards.
Introduction of Staff
Dr. Guadagnino shared a chart of assigned curriculum leaders, department heads, and supervising administrators, most of whom were present in the audience.
Overview of Curriculum Review / Writing Process
The following items were presented with a brief explanation:
c. History / Cycle Chart
In 2011-2014, the curriculum review cycle years were frozen due to budget-related concerns. By 2020, all subjects were unfrozen and back on a cyclical review. In 2020-2022 due to COVID-19, subjects were again frozen. The District, again, resumed its six-year cycle in 2022-2023.
d. Format
3) Curriculum Maps
e. Budget Process
Following the review and rewrite process, recommended textbooks, materials and/or resources are presented to the School Board for approval. Typically, $300,000 is budgeted each year.
Current Curriculum
Guadagnino shared that all K-12 curriculum, as of September 2023, is housed on the SGASD website.
Scheduled Curriculum Committee Meetings / Presentation Format
Guadagnino will work with staff and administrators as they prepare presentations according to the following schedule, and provided items for consideration:
a. October 2nd – Year 6 - PE/Wellness & Library
b. October 16th – Year 5 - Social Studies, Music, Counseling, & FCS
c. October 30th – Year 4 - Art, Business, World Language, STEM
d. November 6th – Year 3 - Mathematics
e. November 20th – Year 1 - English Language Arts & Science
f. December 11th – TBD
Dr. Ioannidis thanked Guadagnino, Board members, and all who were in attendance. The meeting was adjourned at 6:30 PM.
RESPECTFULLY SUBMITTED BY:
Suzanne E. Sterner, Board Recording Secretary
September 13, 2023 Buildings and Grounds Committee Meeting Minutes
SPRING GROVE AREA SCHOOL DISTRICT
BOARD OF SCHOOL DIRECTORS
BUILDINGS AND GROUNDS COMMITTEE MEETING
DATE/TIME of MEETING: September 13, 2023 @ 6:00 PM
LOCATION of MEETING: District Technology Center Conference Room, 1472 Roth Church Road, Spring Grove PA
The following guest presenters were in attendance: Scott Cousin, Crabtree, Rohrbaugh & Associates (CRA), Bruce Burchfield, CRA, John Luciani, First Capital Engineering, Joe Gurney, First Capital Engineering
The following School Directors were in attendance: Doug White (chair), Rodney Shearer, Doug Stein, Nicole Wilson
The following Spring Grove Area School District personnel were in attendance: Dr. George W. Ioannidis, Superintendent, Dr. Steve Guadagnino, Assistant Superintendent, Mark Czapp, Director of Business Operations, Bill Stiles, District Facilities Manager, Suzanne Sterner, Board Recording Secretary
A Buildings and Grounds Committee meeting of the Spring Grove Area Board of School Directors was held on Wednesday, September 13, 2023. Doug White called the meeting to order at 6:09 PM.
PURPOSE OF MEETING
Scott Cousin, CRA, reported that the School Board approved site 4 for the proposed multi-purpose facility at the August 28th voting meeting. The District provided general information to First Capital and CRA regarding areas of need, including exterior elevation concepts, which were used to prepare tonight’s presentation.
UPDATE ON MULTI-PURPOSE FACILITY
Joe Gurney, First Capital, presented updated designs, cost breakdown, and cost estimate summary to three variations of site 4: original site 4, site 4a (with driveway shortened), and site 4b (with the facility closer to Rocket Drive).
Gurney presented a building area summary that provided an estimated breakdown of space and costs for usable areas. Cousin stated that using a pre-engineered building as the starting point, if making any reductions, would require wholesale changes to the structure of the building. The initial projected estimate for the building was $2.7 million.
The presentation included elevation concept drawings, using existing campus facilities as a model for consistency. The draft included a building with a single slope roof, red brick (masonry), translucent panels and incorporation of the District logo. Considerations to a reduction in cost included a reduction of masonry and/or elimination of translucent panels and masonry work.
Cousin stated that First Capital can move forward only after the Board finalizes the site 4 building location, the size of the building, elevation concept, and land development submission to the township.
Shearer iterated his disapproval of the building project and stated the Board should be asked to vote. White asked if there was an alternative to the proposed project. Stein stated that the District has never had a maintenance facility.
Ioannidis stated that the current proposal includes the minimum requirements as shared by Czapp and Stiles in their experience with oversight of overall district operations and maintenance. He further stated that the proposal is a best attempt to resolve several problems, and multiple options have been presented to the Board, including pros and cons of each.
Shearer suggested further considerations be made to cut costs, including areas that may not require heating and cooling, and elimination of a portion of the blacktop. Cousin provided detail regarding HVAC areas; Gurney indicated that 110 feet of blacktop is required from the loading dock area. Cousin also stated the possibility of reducing the bay as a potential cost savings.
Shearer requested the administration inquire about the projected size and cost of Krise Transportation’s proposed building for comparison.
CAMPUS MASTER PLAN WITH CIVIL ENGINEERING SERVICES
Ioannidis provided an update to the District’s consideration of a Campus Master Plan with Civil Engineering services, which includes secondary access roads and the Roth Church Road Community Partnership project with the YMCA. First Capital met with the YMCA to discuss their proposed designs related to parking and exterior building needs, and Luciani explained that, as First Capital prepares to approach the township with the land development plan, it was recommended that all of the project fees be included on one permit for a reduction in the cost. The information exchange can now be used by First Capital to prepare a final estimate to bring to the Board at a future DSF meeting. Stein requested a summary of the overall cost with individual projects separated.
CAPITAL PROJECTS TOUR DATE CONFIRMED
Czapp noted September 30th has been confirmed as the 2023 facilities tour, and the Board will meet at the Technology Center for a light breakfast to begin the walkthrough. Per a request of the Board, the basement of the high school will be an included stop.
FUTURE PLANNING
Czapp requested direction on the selection of the site location. Stein prefers to exclude site 4b to save the space for a future educational building. Wilson is not in support of the proposed building as presented; however, if the building cost were reduced, the additional driveway cost to site 4 could be considered. White stated 4b as his preference.
Ioannidis reported that all Board members received a copy of tonight’s presentation. The administration will present additional information at the September 25th Regular Voting Meeting, with anything more provided at the September 30th annual facilities tour. The Board will be asked to consider a final decision no later than October 9, 2023.
White adjourned the meeting at 7:27 PM.
RESPECTFULLY SUBMITTED BY:
Suzanne E. Sterner, Board Recording Secretary
September 11, 2023 Directors' Study Forum Minutes
SPRING GROVE AREA SCHOOL DISTRICT
BOARD OF SCHOOL DIRECTORS
DIRECTORS’ STUDY FORUM MINUTES
DATE/TIME of MEETING: September 11, 2023 / 7:06 PM
LOCATION of MEETING: Spring Grove Area Middle School, 244 Old Hanover Road, Spring Grove, PA
ATTENDANCE:
The following School Directors were in attendance: Karen Baum, Ben Ramsay, Rodney Shearer, Doug Stein, Doug White
The following Spring Grove Area School District Administrators were in attendance:
Dr. George W. Ioannidis, Superintendent, Dr. Steve Guadagnino, Assistant Superintendent, Mr. Mark Czapp, Director of Business Operations/Board Secretary, Dr. Michelle Ludwig, Director of Pupil Services
A Directors’ Study Forum of the Board of School Directors of the Spring Grove Area School District was held on Monday, September 11, 2023, following adjournment of the voting meeting. White noted the same five board members remained in attendance.
There was no public comment.
BUSINESS AND FINANCE COMMITTEE
BUDGET AND FINANCE
Ramsay invited Mark Czapp to present the proposed 2024-2025 Budget Timeline for review. The Board will consider approval of the timeline at the September 25th Regular Voting Meeting.
Czapp reported that Standard and Poor’s (S&P) recently reviewed the District’s financial history and downgraded the rating (issued in 2018) from AA- to A+. Czapp cited use of the fund balance and not enacting a tax increase as two reasons for the change, each having a negative impact on finances. Czapp shared a handout that reflected a declining fund balance trend over recent years and also noted that of three sources of District revenue, the budgetary process includes opportunity for affect on local revenue only through the real estate tax rate. Ioannidis thanked Czapp and Leppo for their time in preparing information and informed the Board that the rating change could negatively impact the interest rate and/or insurance cost when borrowing money. Shearer suggested the administration review interest rate options available through PennVest.
BUILDINGS AND GROUNDS
Czapp shared a high-level view of YMCA updated floor plans as an informational item, with no action needed. Shearer asked if there is a possibility of using their docks and storage. Czapp and Stiles will review the drawings, speak with Core Design, and respond to Shearer’s question.
Ioannidis stated that the next Buildings and Grounds Committee Meeting is set for Wednesday, September 13th at the Technology Center. More information will be provided by First Capital and CRA regarding the site 4 location and multi-purpose facility. If available, results from an inquiry to PennDOT regarding Krise Transportation buses’ entry/exit onto Old Hanover Road will also be shared. The proposed agenda and draft presentation will be given to the Board before the meeting.
The 2023 Board facilities walkthrough is scheduled for Saturday, September 30th and will begin at the Technology Center at 7 AM. Stein requested to see the space located beneath the high school cafeteria.
MANAGEMENT COMMITTEE
POLICY
Ioannidis presented proposed dates for 2024 Board meetings for review. The Board will consider approval of the proposed Meeting Schedule at the September 25th Regular Voting Meeting.
Ioannidis shared a list of meeting dates through the close of 2023, including proposed Curriculum Committee meetings beginning on Monday, September 18th, that will be open to the public. No deliberation or decision-making will take place, and no action is expected to be required by the Board.
Ioannidis presented the slate of candidates for election of 2024 PSBA officers. There are no contested positions. At the September 25th meeting, the Board will be asked to select their choice of candidates and approve the Board Secretary to vote on their behalf through a PSBA voting portal.
A copy of minutes from the August 30th Board Policy Committee meeting were shared as an informational item and entered into public record. There were six policies reviewed at the meeting and are included with tonight’s DSF agenda. Shearer asked what triggers policy revisions and stated his frustration with the time involved in reviewing the documents. Ioannidis shared that revisions can be initiated following internal review of District practices, legislative changes, legal recommendations, and/or direction from state/federal institutions following an audit.
Baum presented proposed revisions to Finance/Business policies #702, #228, and #618; Board/Board Governance policies #003 and #011; and Program policy #122. The Board will consider approval of a first reading at the September 25th Regular Voting Meeting.
PERSONNEL
Stein presented a memorandum and proposed updates to the Nurses’ Support Staff Compensation Matrix for review. Ioannidis indicated that PSBA was of assistance in providing market Pennsylvania hourly rates, and the recommendation is coming as a result of ongoing challenges with attracting and retaining nursing staff. The Board will consider approval of the adjusted rates at the September 25th meeting.
Stein presented a memorandum proposing discontinuation of the currently inactive Indoor Percussion Program and transitioning those stipends to support the Modern Band Program. The administration supports the recommendation made by the Music Department, and the stipends have been included with the current budget. Stein requested that rather than replacing positions with newer recommended positions, the administration continue to budget for both old and new positions and suggested that if the older remain unfilled a budgetary transfer could be considered. The proposed action at the September 25th meeting will be written as directed by the Board.
Stein presented a confidential memorandum listing proposed personnel actions to be considered for approval at the September 25th Regular Voting Meeting.
PROGRAM COMMITTEE
CURRICULUM
Baum presented the District Third Day Enrollment Report (dated August 2023). Ioannidis stated that this is a monthly report, updated regularly, and is shared following recent questions raised by the Board regarding student enrollment. This is an informational item, and there will be no action required by the Board.
Ioannidis presented a list of upcoming Curriculum Committee meeting dates. The committee meetings have been scheduled as informational sessions to review the curriculum cycle and internal processes. There will be no action requested of the Board, and all board members were encouraged to attend.
As an outcome of the 2023 Board Retreat, Ioannidis reported that he has been focusing on Strategic Planning with leadership, with a concentration on the overall approach to District operations. This includes strengthening how the administration presents its current instructional model and works with families of all students, including those who are currently enrolled in Cyber/Charter institutions.
Ioannidis presented an overnight conference request on behalf of Dr. Ludwig, who received a scholarship to attend and participate in the 2023 Homeless Conference in Cranberry, PA. The Board will consider approval of the request at the September 25th meeting.
Board approval is a required step in preparing to submit the 2023-2026 Guidance Plan to the PA Department of Education (PDE). Following a brief review of the plan document, Ludwig indicated that the Board will be asked to consider acknowledgement of the review at the September 25th Regular Voting Meeting.
Ludwig shared an update regarding a recent Special Education Ruling from PDE. On August 30th, special education directors and superintendents were informed that a policy revision was made at the state level changing the age of eligibility for services from age 21 to the day prior to a student’s 22nd birthday. The implementation date was September 5th. The change affects more than 1,000 families statewide and two families at the District level. Ioannidis reported that PSBA filed a legal action against PDE.
PLANNING
Stein stated that in follow up to his comments at the August meeting regarding the proposed maintenance facility, he put together a list of nine questions he would like to have answered by the administration. He requested a digital copy of the list be emailed to all board members.
Stein stated that in the spring of this year, he and another Board member raised concerns that there were no math textbooks at the primary grade levels and asked questions about the primary math curriculum. After being told by teachers there are no textbooks being used, Stein requested that the administration respond to several prepared questions during a future DSF meeting. He also requested that a digital copy of the questions be shared with all board members. Shearer asked if the Board could see copies of all textbooks used at elementary grade levels.
ADJOURNMENT
Ramsay moved to adjourn the meeting at 8:03 PM. Shearer seconded. Meeting adjourned by unanimous voice vote.
RESPECTFULLY SUBMITTED BY:
Mark A. Czapp, Director of Business Operations/Board Secretary
September 11, 2023 Voting Meeting Minutes
SPRING GROVE AREA SCHOOL DISTRICT
BOARD OF SCHOOL DIRECTORS
REGULAR VOTING MEETING MINUTES
DATE/TIME of MEETING: September 11, 2023 / 7:00 PM
LOCATION of MEETING: Spring Grove Area Middle School, 244 Old Hanover Road, Spring Grove, PA
ATTENDANCE:
The following School Directors were in attendance: Karen Baum, Ben Ramsay, Rodney Shearer, Doug Stein, Doug White
The following Spring Grove Area School District Administrators were in attendance: Dr. George W. Ioannidis, Superintendent, Dr. Steve Guadagnino, Assistant Superintendent, Mr. Mark Czapp, Director of Business Operations/Board Secretary, Dr. Michelle Ludwig, Director of Pupil Services
A voting meeting of the Board of School Directors of the Spring Grove Area School District was held on Monday, September 11, 2023, in the LGI Room #242 of Spring Grove Area Middle School, 244 Old Hanover Road, Spring Grove.
Mark Czapp, Board Secretary, called the meeting to order at 7:00 PM. The Pledge of Allegiance was recited, and a moment of silence was observed.
Roll call reflected five board members present, with Mike Ritz, Rachel Rohrbaugh, Dave Trettel, and Nicole Wilson absent for work purposes.
Czapp called for nominations of a Temporary President in the absence of the President and Vice President.
Ramsay nominated Doug White. Baum seconded.
Ramsay moved to close nominations and elect White as Temporary President. Baum seconded. Motion approved by unanimous voice vote.
White reported no executive sessions held since the last sunshine meeting.
There was no public comment and no correspondence to share.
PERSONNEL
1. Following a report of the Personnel Committee’s recommendations read by Doug Stein, Stein moved, and Ramsay seconded the following:
A. PERSONNEL ACTIONS – Approval of all personnel actions as listed on the attachment.
Vote by roll call resulted in the motion carrying by unanimous vote.
ADJOURNMENT: Ramsay moved for adjournment at 7:06 PM. Baum seconded. Meeting adjourned by unanimous voice vote.
RESPECTFULLY SUBMITTED BY:
Mark A. Czapp, Director of Business Operations/Board Secretary
August 28, 2023 Regular Voting Meeting Minutes
SPRING GROVE AREA SCHOOL DISTRICT
BOARD OF SCHOOL DIRECTORS
REGULAR VOTING MEETING MINUTES
DATE/TIME of MEETING: August 28, 2023
LOCATION of MEETING: Spring Grove Area Middle School, 244 Old Hanover Road, Spring Grove, PA
ATTENDANCE:
The following School Directors were in attendance: Karen Baum, Ben Ramsay, Michael Ritz, Rachel Rohrbaugh (via Zoom), Rodney Shearer, Doug Stein, Dave Trettel, Doug White, Nicole Wilson
The following Spring Grove Area School District Administrators were in attendance: Dr. George W. Ioannidis, Superintendent, Dr. Steve Guadagnino, Assistant Superintendent, Mr. Mark Czapp, Director of Business Operations/Board Secretary, Dr. Michelle Ludwig, Director of Pupil Services
A regular voting meeting of the Board of School Directors of the Spring Grove Area School District was held on Monday, August 28, 2023, in the LGI Room #242 of Spring Grove Area Middle School, 244 Old Hanover Road, Spring Grove. David Trettel, Board Vice President, called the meeting to order at 7:00 PM. The Pledge of Allegiance was recited, and a moment of silence was observed.
Roll call reflected eight board members physically present, with Rachel Rohrbaugh participating virtually.
Trettel reported that an executive session was held prior to the start of this evening’s meeting for negotiations.
SUPERINTENDENT’S REPORT
Dr. Ioannidis thanked various departmental staff for their role in welcoming faculty and non-instructional support personnel back to buildings on Monday, August 21, 2023, noting all were excited to return and the day was positive.
Ioannidis welcomed outstanding educators and support staff for 2023-2024, nominated and selected by their peers: Melissa Grim, High School Math/Gifted/AP instructor; Jessica Henning, Intermediate School Grade 5 instructor; Adrienne Arnold, Assistant Superintendent Administrative Asst., Dody Tome-Kern, SGE Kindergarten Aide, and Angie Leese, High School Emotional Support paraprofessional. He congratulated each staff member as they were recognized, read comments from the respective nominations, and presented each with a small gift.
Ioannidis provided a brief background to the proposed multi-purpose facility site location listed with Buildings and Grounds actions. Planning for the proposed project dates back as far as 2011 when Board members and administrators were presented with a summary report from the Citizen Advisory Committee (CAC) that recommended updates to District facilities. In responding to the CAC, the administration developed improvements to food services and general operations overall. Tonight’s action will only determine the location of the facility, with next steps including the architect and civil engineer providing a more detailed site plan, layout of the proposed facility, functional use of the facility, and pros and cons to considerations.
PUBLIC COMMENT
Trettel thanked all visitors present in the audience noting attendance at meetings is a way to remain informed.
Rhonda Wastler, 2023-2024 Music Booster President, extended an invitation to the Board to attend 2023-24 events and fundraising activities.
Kathy Gross, Heidelberg Township, shared a list of concerns as a retired teacher of the District and asked the Board and administration to focus on items that provide a quality education to students.
BOARD/ADMINISTRATIVE RESPONSE TO PUBLIC COMMENT
Ramsay shared a concern about recent posts on social media . Shearer stated that the Board should investigate to determine any validity to the posts.
CORRESPONDENCE
Athletic event parking passes were shared with Board members.
Trettel and White were presented with a Certificate of Involvement from PSBA for ten years of service as Board members.
LEGISLATIVE UPDATE
The PA Senate is set to return to session on August 30. A majority of the State budget has passed, but there is still money that needs to go through the statutory process to determine how it will be distributed.
YORK COUNTY SCHOOL OF TECHNOLOGY
Shearer reported that at the July meeting, personnel, bus routes, and the start of the 2024-25 school year budget were discussed. Trettel reported from items shared at the August meeting that there are 26 total technical programs currently being offered, there are currently 1677 students, 121 of whom are Spring Grove residents. Adult Ed and the FLEX Program are going well.
YORK ADAMS ACADEMY
There was no report.
APPROVAL OF MINUTES
1. Wilson moved to approve the minutes from the Regular Voting Meeting held on July 17, 2023, and Voting Meeting/Directors’ Study Forum Meetings held on August 14, 2023. Baum seconded the motion, unanimously approved by voice vote.
TREASURER’S REPORTS
2. White presented the Treasurer’s Report for the month ending July 31, 2023, and moved to approve the report as presented. Ramsay seconded the motion, approved by unanimous vote.
BUSINESS/FINANCE REPORTS
BUDGET AND FINANCE
3. Following a report of the Budget and Finance Committee’s recommendations read by Doug White, White moved, and Ramsay seconded the following:
A. ACCOUNTS PAYABLE LISTS – Approval of the Accounts Payable lists, as presented.
B. TAX EXONERATION REQUEST – Approval to exonerate the Spring Grove Area School District from tax bill number 004707, dated 07/15/2023, parcel ID number 33000FF0094A000000, for 2023-2024 School Real Estate taxes due in the face amount of $5,083.45.
C. TAX EXONERATION REQUEST – Approval to exonerate Debra Lewis from tax bill number 003374, dated 07/15/2021, parcel ID number 33-000-IF-0023-00-M0281, for the 2021-2022 School Real Estate taxes due in the face amount of $758.66 and penalty of $75.87 per the request dated June 28, 2023.
D. 2023-2024 FUND RAISING ORGANIZATIONS – Approval for students and/or staff to raise funds toward support of the organizations reflected on the attached list, during the 2023-2024 school year, in accordance with Board Policy #229.
Vote by roll call resulted in the motion carrying by unanimous vote.
Ioannidis shared a handout, Information-Sharing, Fund Balances, listing several York County School Districts’ fund balances as requested by the Board. Stein stated that Spring Grove’s fund balance has dropped significantly from prior years. Prior years’ budget data remains available on the website for informational purposes. Historical data enables the Board to use funds judiciously and plan accordingly. Stein requested a history of building specific budget data, including the number of students per building, and annual fund balance percentage per student, building and districtwide.
BUILDINGS AND GROUNDS
4. Following a report of the Buildings and Grounds Committee’s recommendations read by Doug White, White moved, and Baum seconded the following:
A. SITE LOCATION FOR THE DISTRICT MAINTENANCE FACILITY PROJECT – Approval to continue planning of the District Maintenance Facility project on site #4 from among the proposed options surrendered to the School Board for consideration from First Capital Engineering and Crabtree Rohrbaugh and Associates.
B. 2023-2024 WAIVER OF RENTAL FEES – Approval for organizations included on the attached list to be considered eligible for waiver of rental fees for usage of facilities during the 2023-2024 fiscal year.
With motion and second on the table, Trettel opened the floor to discussion.
Ramsay questioned the $5(+) million dollar figure quoted by community members for the proposed facility. He stated that it is much more than a maintenance building; it is a multi-purpose facility that has the capability of housing supplies needed through the entire district, which translates to larger quantities per order and better purchasing power. A central location will yield improved operations and greater functionality as a school district. The Board must also consider tractor-trailer entry/exit, sale of the ESC building, and restructuring of the debt to not require raising taxes. Tonight’s action is the site location only.
Shearer stated that estimates were given at the Buildings and Grounds Committee meeting. He is concerned about selecting a site without knowing what the building is going to look like. The Board should decide what it wants to spend. The administration’s focus should be on education.
Ioannidis reported that Spring Grove is one of the top 5 districts in the state as being efficient with its money.
White stated that the Board needs to make a decision and noted that the price of the facility is increasing while the Board delays in choosing a site. White further stated that safety remains a concern with the need to install two secondary access roads on campus and urged Board members to agree to move forward.
Wilson agreed that a decision on location needs made, but at a reasonable cost. She is more concerned with improving PSSA and Keystone scores, education, and curriculum.
Stein stated that presentations by the architect and civil engineer should occur at Board meetings and options should be given when all members are present to make recommendations and decisions rather than during committee meetings when some are not in attendance.
Trettel called for roll call vote, resulting in the motion carrying, with Shearer, Ramsay, Wilson, Trettel, Stein, Baum, Ritz and Rohrbaugh voting in favor. White opposed.
BUILDINGS AND GROUNDS – FOR INFORMATION ONLY:
A. MANDATED BUILDING FIRE DRILLS
SCHOOL BUILDING |
DATE OF DRILL |
MINUTES |
SECONDS |
New Salem Elementary NOT NEEDED |
|
|
|
Paradise Elementary NOT NEEDED |
|
|
|
Spring Grove Elementary |
07/20/2023 |
1 |
40 |
Spring Grove Intermediate |
07/18/2023 |
1 |
06 |
Spring Grove Middle School |
07/12/2023 |
1 |
12 |
Spring Grove High School |
07/26/2023 |
1 |
47 |
B. BUILDINGS AND GROUNDS COMMITTEE MEETING MINUTES OF AUGUST 7, 2023 – See attached.
TRANSPORTATION
5. Following a report of the Transportation Committee’s recommendations read by Mike Ritz, Ritz moved, and Ramsay seconded the following:
A. 2023-2024 BUS ROUTES – Approval of proposed student bus routes for the 2023-2024 school year.
B. KRISE BUS/VAN DRIVERS – Approval of the attached list of contracted Krise Bus Company drivers for the 2023-2024 school year in accordance with the pupil transportation state regulations as set forth in 22 Pa Code 23.4.
Vote by roll call resulted in the motion carrying by unanimous vote.
Ritz noted drivers have shared concern regarding dismissal time and congestion. White reiterated the need to keep moving forward with campus projects, including proposed roads.
MANAGEMENT REPORTS
POLICY
6. Following a report of the Policy Committee’s recommendations read by Karen Baum, Baum moved, and Ritz seconded the following:
A. FIRST READING – Approval of a first reading of the following policy:
1) Policy #827 – Operations, Conflict of Interest
B. DONATIONS – Acknowledgment and/or acceptance of the following donations in accordance with Board Policy No. 702, Gifts, Grants and Donations:
1) A large logo decal from York Wallcoverings, RoomMates Division, to be placed in the High School cafeteria.
2) A monetary donation from Christ’s American Baptist Church in the amount of $1,695.24 to support the Backpack Program.
3) A monetary donation from Innovative Bowling Products in the amount of $300.00 to support the District’s Mental Health Program.
4) A monetary grant from TE Connectivity in the amount of $2,500.00 to support the Student Launch Initiative.
Vote by roll call resulted in the motion carrying by unanimous vote.
7. Following a report of the Personnel Committee’s recommendations read by Doug Stein, Stein moved, and Ritz seconded the following:
A. PERSONNEL ACTIONS – Approval of all personnel actions as listed on the attachment.
Vote by roll call resulted in the motion carrying by unanimous vote.
Ioannidis welcomed and congratulated new Rocket staff members, Rhonda Wastler and Janelle Geesey.
PROGRAM REPORTS
CURRICULUM
8. Following a report of the Curriculum Committee’s recommendations read by Nicole Wilson, Wilson moved, and Ritz seconded the following:
A. OVERNIGHT CONFERENCE REQUEST – Approval for Dr. George W. Ioannidis, Superintendent, to attend the 2023 Fall LIU Superintendent Symposium taking place at National Harbor, Maryland, on September 27, 28, and 29, 2023.
B. LIBERTY UNIVERSITY AFFILIATION AGREEMENTS – Approval to enter into the following listed agreements with Liberty University and accept University student teachers / student interns / practicum candidates:
1) School of Education Practicum Articulation Agreement
2) Public Schools and Liberty University Student Teaching Agreement
Background information provided, as requested
Vote by roll call resulted in the motion carrying by unanimous vote.
Following action items, Ramsay commented and invited additional questions or comments from the audience related to the proposed multi-purpose facility.
Gary Burgard, Paradise Township, questioned if the former swimming pool area could be considered for use as storage.
No; Ioannidis stated that having reached an agreement with the YMCA, they now have ownership of the building. The former middle school could not be used in its present condition as an educational building, as determined by the CAC more than 12 years prior. One of the recommendations at that time was to repurpose the building, which was the selected option by the Board. The sale to the YMCA translates to no costs incurred by the District for renovation, upkeep, and/or maintenance.
Ramsay stated that having sold the building, substantial savings will also be realized by the District moving ESC administrative offices to the Roth Church Road facility. Costs that would have been associated with upgrading the ESC (not done since 1998) would be substantial if we were not moving offices to space renovated and paid for by the YMCA. The District will also experience additional revenue through the sale of the ESC building.
Ioannidis commented that the YMCA’s purchase provides the community with a variety of service opportunities. The District’s financial plan includes the opportunity to refinance and restructure debt for the capital projects. Prepare each year’s budget, the District continues to look at continuity of services to our students, including staff, operations overall, and putting off or limiting any increase in taxes.
Trettel thanked everyone for attending. Ioannidis reminded Board members that one of the main reasons for the upcoming annual facilities tour is to review items included as part of the District’s long range capital projects list.
ADJOURNMENT: Ramsay moved for adjournment at 8:25 PM. Wilson seconded. Meeting adjourned by unanimous voice vote.
RESPECTFULLY SUBMITTED BY:
Mark A. Czapp, Director of Business Operations/Board Secretary
August 14, 2023 Directors' Study Forum Minutes
SPRING GROVE AREA SCHOOL DISTRICT
BOARD OF SCHOOL DIRECTORS
DIRECTORS’ STUDY FORUM MEETING
DATE/TIME of MEETING: August 14, 2023, @ 7:13
LOCATION of MEETING: Spring Grove Area Middle School, 244 Old Hanover Road, Spring Grove, PA
ATTENDANCE:
The following School Directors were in attendance: Karen Baum, Michael Ritz, Rachel Rohrbaugh, Rodney Shearer, Doug Stein, Dave Trettel, Doug White, Nicole Wilson
The following School Directors were absent: Ben Ramsay
The following Spring Grove Area School District Administrators were in attendance: Dr. George W. Ioannidis, Superintendent, Dr. Steve Guadagnino, Assistant Superintendent, Dr. Michelle Ludwig, Director of Pupil Services, Mark Czapp, Director of Business Operations/Board Secretary
A Directors’ Study meeting of the Board of School Directors of the Spring Grove Area School District was held on Monday, August 14, 2023, following adjournment of the voting meeting. Rachel Rohrbaugh, Board President, called the meeting to order at 7:13 PM, noting the same eight board members in attendance from the earlier voting meeting.
PUBLIC COMMENT
There was no public comment.
PROGRAM COMMITTEE REPORTS:
CURRICULUM
Dr. Guadagnino shared a presentation summarizing results of 2022-2023 PSSA/Keystone testing. Dr. Dietrich followed up with a summary of results from AP courses during the last school year.
Guadagnino presented a Curriculum Cycle chart with an attachment detailing the various phases of the curriculum review and revision process. This was an informational item only, with no action required by the Board.
A Summer School/Summer Camp Summary was shared to outline summer programs and attendance of students, including a comparison from the previous year. Guadagnino noted that, among other benefits, Pre-K students were demonstrating readiness for kindergarten following participation in the program. Czapp indicated that ESSER III funding remains available until September 2024 to fund next year’s programs, and Guadagnino stated that since pre-K and credit recovery programs existed prior to ESSERS, future funding proposals will be presented to the Board.
Guadagnino presented two proposed articulation agreements from Liberty University. The Board will consider approval at the next regular voting meeting, and a summary of current participation agreements will be shared with Board members.
Ioannidis reported that in the 2022-23 school year, approximately 37 students previously enrolled in Cyber/Charter Schools returned to in-person learning; approximately 9 Cyber/Charter School students have returned to-date for the 2023-24 school year. As curricular offerings are further defined, the District will share with additional information all families for their consideration of re-enrollment and participation.
A memorandum requesting participation in the September Superintendents’ Symposium was presented by Dr. Ioannidis for consideration, with this year’s agenda focus on Safety and Security. The Board will consider approval of the request at the August regular voting meeting.
ATHLETICS AND MUSIC
Jeff Laux presented a summary of 2022-23 springs sports, noting that, overall, the program was a success. Laux introduced Kristen Mummert (upcoming senior), Rowan Conover (upcoming junior), and Dawson McMaster (upcoming senior), to share highlights from their experiences during their participation in the summer PIAA National Leadership Conference. The students also planned and carried out the inaugural YAIAA York/Adams Leadership Conference recently held in the District. Laux reiterated that the county event was student-driven and included 55 student-athletes from 14 districts.
BUSINESS AND FINANCE COMMITTEE REPORTS:
BUILDINGS AND GROUNDS
Scott Cousin, Crabtree Rohrbaugh and Associates (CRA), shared the summary of items presented during the August 7th Buildings & Grounds Committee meeting. The presentation included four site options for the maintenance facility project, with estimated construction and soft cost estimates. Following discussion, Czapp indicated that the administration was seeking direction from the School Board for a final proposed site location to include as an action item with August 28th voting meeting actions. Consensus of the Board was to move forward with option 4. CRA will seek an opinion from PennDOT concerning any deterrent if the District were to seek a right of way from Old Hanover Road onto Rocket Drive if Krise Transportation were to receive approval for their requested access road.
Ioannidis reported that First Capital provided an estimated cost range of $260-$320 to undertake additional projects as part of their engineering work, including, but not limited to, SGE/HS access roads and YMCA renovations, with possible consideration of additional blacktop space. The administration will seek a formal proposal, and the Board will be given a summary of proposed projects included with the quote. Ioannidis noted that any costs borne from the YMCA’s project will be paid by YMCA. The benefit will be to save on design work and application fees. Formal approval will be requested at a future meeting.
Czapp reminded Board members that a PCCD grant was approved that includes funding for physical security upgrades on campus, including expansion of the high school access road and bollards in certain locations.
Following consideration of two dates for the 2023 Board walkthrough, Ioannidis requested and received confirmation for Saturday, September 30. More information will be shared with the Board.
Bill Stiles presented a list of proposed organizations for consideration of waiving use of facilities fees in 2023-2024. The Board will consider approval of the proposed list at the next regular voting meeting.
BUDGET AND FINANCE
Chris Gibbons, Concord Public Finance, re-presented a summary of proposed financing options for restructuring debt and funding capital projects. Ioannidis indicated the administration would share a comparison of other York County School District fund balances at a future meeting and noted the goal of Spring Grove has been to preserve its fund balance for future use against increased costs and uncertain state funding. Gibbons stated future considerations can include a more financially conservative approach and projected October for a final decision.
Czapp presented two tax exoneration requests, which the Board will consider approving at the next regular voting meeting.
Steph Kennedy presented a proposed list of fundraising organizations for the 2023-2024 school year. The Board will consider approval at the next regular voting meeting.
TRANSPORTATION
Ioannidis presented a list of proposed 2023-2024 Krise bus/van drivers for consideration. He stated that his provisional approval will be granted for drivers and proposed bus routes for the start of school on August 23rd, in advance of the August 28th regular voting meeting when the Board will consider formal approval.
MANAGEMENT COMMITTEE REPORTS:
POLICY
Baum presented proposed revisions to Board Policy #827 for review and consideration. The Board will consider approval of a first reading at the next regular voting meeting.
PERSONNEL
Stein presented a confidential Memorandum proposing personnel actions to consider at the August 28th voting meeting.
ADJOURNMENT:
Ritz moved for adjournment at 9:29 PM. Trettel seconded. The meeting adjourned by unanimous voice vote.
RESPECTFULLY SUBMITTED BY:
Mark A. Czapp, Director of Business Operations/Board Secretary
August 14, 2023 Voting Meeting Minutes
SPRING GROVE AREA SCHOOL DISTRICT
BOARD OF SCHOOL DIRECTORS
VOTING MEETING
DATE/TIME of MEETING: August 14, 2023 @ 7:00 PM
LOCATION of MEETING: Spring Grove Area Middle School, 244 Old Hanover Road, Spring Grove, PA
ATTENDANCE:
The following School Directors were in attendance: Karen Baum, Michael Ritz, Rachel Rohrbaugh, Rodney Shearer, Doug Stein, Dave Trettel, Doug White, Nicole Wilson
The following School Directors were absent: Ben Ramsay
The following Spring Grove Area School District Administrators were in attendance: Dr. George W. Ioannidis, Superintendent, Dr. Steve Guadagnino, Assistant Superintendent, Dr. Michelle Ludwig, Director of Pupil Services, Mark Czapp, Director of Business Operations/Board Secretary
A voting meeting of the Board of School Directors of the Spring Grove Area School District was held on Monday, August 14, 2023. Rachel Rohrbaugh, Board President, called the meeting to order at 7:00 PM. The pledge of allegiance was recited, followed by a moment of silence. Roll call confirmed eight board members in physical attendance, with Ben Ramsay absent for personal reasons.
PUBLIC COMMENT
There was no public comment.
CORRESPONDENCE
Rohrbaugh asked Board members to consider signing up to attend Back-to-School nights.
ACTION VOTING ITEMS
BUDGET AND FINANCE
1. Following a report of the Budget and Finance Committee’s recommendations read by Doug White, White moved, and Wilson seconded the following:
A. CAPITAL PROJECTS RESOLUTION – Approval of the attached resolution related to the financing of capital projects.
Vote by roll call resulted in the motion carrying by unanimous vote.
POLICY
2. Following a report of the Policy Committee’s recommendations read by Karen Baum, Baum moved, and Trettel seconded the following:
A. SECOND READING – Approval of a second and final reading for the following policies:
1) Policy #137 – Home Education Programs
2) Policy #137.1 – Extracurricular Participation by Home Education Students
3) Policy #137.2 – Participation in Co-curricular Activities and Academic Courses by Home Education Students
4) Policy #137.3 – Participation in Career and Technical Education Programs by Home Education Students
5) Policy #200 – Enrollment of Students
6) Policy #202 – Eligibility of Nonresident Students
7) Policy #204 – Attendance
8) Policy #217 – Graduation
9) Policy #221 – Dress and Grooming
10) Policy #251 – Students Experiencing Homelessness, Foster Care and Other Educational Instability
11) Policy #255 – Retire Policy (language included with proposed revisions to #251)
Vote by roll call resulted in the motion carrying by unanimous vote.
PERSONNEL
3. Following a report of the Personnel Committee’s recommendations read by Doug Stein, Stein moved, and Baum seconded the following:
A. PERSONNEL ACTIONS – Approval of all personnel actions as listed on the attachment.
Stein requested a separate vote on item J.
Trettel requested a separate vote on item M23.
Vote by roll call on item J resulted in the motion carrying with seven yay votes; Stein abstained.
Vote by roll call on item M23 resulted in the motion carrying with seven yay votes; Trettel abstained.
Vote by roll call on all remaining items of personnel resulted in the motion carrying by unanimous vote.
CURRICULUM
4. Following a report of the Curriculum Committee’s recommendations read by Nicole Wilson, Wilson moved, and Trettel seconded the following:
A. THADDEUS STEVENS EARLY ENROLLMENT AGREEMENT – Approval to enter into agreement with Thaddeus Stevens College of Technology to provide eligible Spring Grove Area School District students opportunity to participate in the College’s Early Enrollment Program.
Vote by roll call resulted in the motion carrying by unanimous vote.
ADJOURNMENT:
Trettel moved for adjournment at 7:13 PM. Ritz seconded. The meeting adjourned by unanimous voice vote.
RESPECTFULLY SUBMITTED BY:
Mark A. Czapp, Director of Business Operations/Board Secretary
August 7, 2023 Buildings and Grounds Committee Meeting Minutes
SPRING GROVE AREA SCHOOL DISTRICT
BOARD OF SCHOOL DIRECTORS
BUILDINGS AND GROUNDS COMMITTEE MEETING
DATE/TIME of MEETING: August 7, 2023 / 5:30 PM
LOCATION of MEETING: Spring Grove Area School District Technology Center, Roth Church Road, Spring Grove, PA 17362
ATTENDANCE:
The following School Directors were in attendance: Karen Baum, Rodney Shearer, Doug Stein, Dave Trettel, Nicole Wilson
The following Spring Grove Area School District personnel were in attendance: Dr. George W. Ioannidis, Superintendent, Dr. Steve Guadagnino, Assistant Superintendent, Mark Czapp, Director of Business Operations/Board Secretary, Bill Stiles, Facilities Manager, Suzanne Sterner, Board Recording Secretary
The following were also in attendance: Scott Cousin, Crabtree, Rohrbaugh & Associates (CRA), Bruce Burchfield, Crabtree, Rohrbaugh & Associates (CRA), John Luciani, First Capital Engineering, Joe Gurney, First Capital Engineering
A meeting of the Buildings and Grounds Committee of the Spring Grove Area School District was held on Monday, August 7, 2023. Dave Trettel called the meeting to order at 5:36 PM and welcomed all attendees.
Dr. Ioannidis stated that the primary purpose of the meeting is to review preliminary work completed by First Capital following the June 21st meeting and have a recommendation to present for consideration at the August 14th DSF for the maintenance facility location.
Location of Maintenance Facility
Scott Cousin, CRA, reported that First Capital developed grading plans, pros and cons, and cost factors for each of four proposed site locations (2, 4, 6A and 6B). Joe Gurney, First Capital, presented updates to the schematic floor plan of the facility that included a larger covered equipment storage area suggested from the previous meeting. It was noted that the addition could be separated when putting the project out for bid.
Per the presentation, a general overview of options included the following estimates for the site work:
- Site 2 – approximately at $1.36 million
- Site 4 (new) – approximately $1.56 million
- Site 6A – approximately $1.365 million / $198 K for access road only
- Site 6B – approximately $2.10 million
First Capital presented comparison ratings, in order of precedence, with considerations including campus access, fuel usage, ease of deliveries, and emergency protocols, resulting in the following:
- Option 2
- Option 4
- Option 6A
- Option 6B
Mark Czapp noted that Krise Transportation has previously approached the district to install an access road to Rocket Drive, providing opportunity for discussions to have them cover costs for the maintenance facility road (for their ease of operations).
Shearer questioned if buses will be allowed to enter/exit Old Hanover Road from a terminal without a permit to widen the road. Czapp will look into it.
Ioannidis stated that direction from the Board is necessary so First Capital and CRA can begin the bidding process. The four site options will be included with agenda items for review and consideration at the August 14th meeting or the August 28th , with a range of cost estimates. Chris Gibbons, Concord Public Finance, will attend a future meeting to review financing options for the project(s).
Engaging First Capital for Additional Campus Projects
Ioannidis reported that First Capital provided the district with a potential cost between $260 – $320 thousand to engage them for additional campus projects, including the SGE campus road and HS campus road. We will be looking at likely presenting for the Board’s consideration in September. Any engineering work done for YMCA would be reimbursed, including design work, submitting for approvals, and working with municipalities.
Capital Facilities Tour Date / Future Planning
Board attendees were asked to respond with their preference for a date to conduct the annual 2023 Facilities Tour (September 16 or 30).
Next steps on the project include Board approval of the maintenance facility site, site and land development plans, and exterior elevation concepts, then designed mechanical, electrical and plumbing systems.
The meeting adjourned at 7:00 PM.
RESPECTFULLY SUBMITTED BY:
Suzanne E. Sterner, Board Recording Secretary
July 17, 2023 Regular Voting Meeting Minutes
SPRING GROVE AREA SCHOOL DISTRICT
BOARD OF SCHOOL DIRECTORS
REGULAR VOTING MEETING MINUTES
DATE/TIME of MEETING: July 17, 2023 @ 7:00 PM
LOCATION of MEETING: Spring Grove Area Middle School, 244 Old Hanover Road, Spring Grove, PA
ATTENDANCE:
The following School Directors were in attendance: Karen Baum, Ben Ramsay, Rachel Rohrbaugh, Rodney Shearer, Dave Trettel, Doug White
The following School Directors were absent: Michael Ritz, Doug Stein, Nicole Wilson
The following Spring Grove Area School District Administrators were in attendance:
Dr. George W. Ioannidis, Superintendent, Dr. Steve Guadagnino, Assistant Superintendent, Mr. Mark Czapp, Director of Business Operations/Board Secretary (via Zoom), Dr. Michelle Ludwig, Director of Pupil Services
A regular voting meeting of the Board of School Directors of the Spring Grove Area School District was held on Monday, July 17, 2023, in the LGI Room #242 of Spring Grove Area Middle School, 244 Old Hanover Road, Spring Grove. Rachel Rohrbaugh, Board President, called the meeting to order at 7:04 PM. The Pledge of Allegiance was recited, and a moment of silence was observed in memory of former New Salem Elementary teacher, Fay Wagaman.
Roll call reflected five board members present, with Michael Ritz, Doug Stein, and Nicole Wilson absent for personal reasons, and Doug White expected to arrive shortly after opening exercises.
Rohrbaugh reported that an executive session was held on June 26, 2023, for negotiations and personnel matters.
White arrived at 7:06 PM.
PUBLIC COMMENT
Seth Miller, Jackson Township resident, requested a waiver of the interim penalty because he did not receive a typical property interim tax bill. Upon receiving the normal tax bill at his new residence, a penalty was included for non-payment of the interim bill. Miller .
BOARD/ADMINISTRATIVE RESPONSE TO PUBLIC COMMENT
Rohrbaugh stated that someone from the District Business Office will reach out to Mr. Miller to follow up.
SUPERINTENDENT’S REPORT
Ioannidis welcomed and shared congratulations with Sherry Stambaugh, Advisor the Odyssey of the Mind (OM) student club, and students attending the meeting who took part in the OM Worlds Competition. Stambaugh shared a presentation and explained the different teams and their projects, then closed with a video presentation of students thanking board members for supporting the event.
CORRESPONDENCE
There was no correspondence.
LEGISLATIVE UPDATE
Ioannidis reported that Pennsylvania schools are awaiting an enacted state budget. The Board will be notified of any updates. The proposed legislation for charter school funding reform is still not finalized and is likely to be dependent upon budget discussions.
YORK COUNTY SCHOOL OF TECHNOLOGY
Trettel reported that Mr. Shearer will be attending the next scheduled meeting.
YORK ADAMS ACADEMY
There was no report.
APPROVAL OF MINUTES
1. Trettel moved to approve the minutes from the Voting Meeting and Directors’ Study Forum Meetings held on June 26, 2023. Baum seconded the motion, unanimously approved by voice vote.
TREASURER’S REPORTS
2. White presented the Treasurer’s Report for the month ending June 30, 2023, and moved to approve the report as presented. Ramsay seconded the motion, approved by unanimous vote.
BUSINESS/FINANCE REPORTS
BUDGET AND FINANCE
3. Following a report of the Budget and Finance Committee’s recommendations read by Doug White, White moved, and Trettel seconded the following:
A. Approval of the Accounts Payable lists, as presented.
B. Approval of the attached agreement for IU12 to provide remedial reading instructional services as per the school district’s request for assistance and in accordance with the school district’s consolidated application for a Title I Reading Program for academically eligible students attending non-public schools in the Spring Grove Area School District.
Vote by roll call resulted in the motion carrying by unanimous vote.
Ioannidis stated that a Capital Reserve Balances memorandum was shared with board members in the meeting packet.
BUILDINGS AND GROUNDS
4. Following a report of the Buildings and Grounds Committee’s recommendations read by Doug White, White moved, and Baum seconded the following:
A. Approval of the attached Regional Recreation Services Agreement between Spring Grove Borough, Paradise Township, Jackson Township, and the Spring Grove Area School District (participants), and YMCA of the Roses for the administration of a joint community recreation and parks program.
Vote by roll call resulted in the motion carrying by unanimous vote.
BUILDINGS AND GROUNDS INFORMATIONAL ITEMS:
The following mandated fire drills for the month were entered into the minutes:
SCHOOL BUILDING |
DATE OF DRILL |
MINUTES |
SECONDS |
New Salem Elementary, NOT NEEDED |
|
|
|
Paradise Elementary, NOT NEEDED |
|
|
|
Spring Grove Elementary |
06/27/2023 |
1 |
14 |
Spring Grove Intermediate |
06/28/2023 |
1 |
50 |
Spring Grove Middle School |
06/20/2023 |
1 |
23 |
Spring Grove High School |
06/26/2023 |
3 |
25 |
Minutes from the public Buildings and Grounds Committee Meeting held on June 21, 2023, were revised by board members’ request, and entered into the Minutes.
TRANSPORTATION
5. Following a report of the Transportation Committee’s recommendations read by Doug White, White moved, and Ramsay seconded the following:
A. Approval of the following additional contracted Krise Bus Company Bus/Van Driver for the extended 2022-2023 school year during the summer school / summer camp programs, in accordance with the pupil transportation state regulations as set forth in 22 Pa Code 23.4:
1) Tammy Craig
Vote by roll call resulted in the motion carrying by unanimous vote.
MANAGEMENT REPORTS
POLICY
6. Following a report of the Policy Committee’s recommendations read by Karen Baum, Baum moved, and Trettel seconded the following:
A. Approval of a first reading for the following policies:
1) Policy #137 – Home Education Programs (revised)
2) Policy #137.1 – Extracurricular Participation by Home Education Students (new)
3) Policy #137.2 – Participation in Co-curricular Activities and Academic Courses by Home Education Students (new)
4) Policy #137.3 – Participation in Career and Technical Education Programs by Home Education Students (new)
5) Policy #200 – Enrollment of Students (revised)
6) Policy #202 – Eligibility of Nonresident Students (revised)
7) Policy #204 – Attendance (revised)
8) Policy #217 – Graduation (revised)
9) Policy #221 – Dress and Grooming (revised)
10) Policy #251 – Students Experiencing Homelessness, Foster Care and Other Educational Instability (revised)
11) Policy #255 – Retire Policy (language included with proposed revisions to #251)
B. Approval of the attached Code of Student Conduct and General Operating Procedures, in accordance with Board Policies, to be included in the Core Section of the 2023-2024 Student/Parent Handbook, relevant to all students at the K-12 educational levels.
Vote by roll call on resulted in the motion carrying by unanimous vote.
PERSONNEL
7. Following a report of the Personnel Committee’s recommendations read by Karen Baum, Baum moved, and Trettel seconded the following:
A. Approval of the following resignations:
1) Spring Grove Area Middle School Science Instructor – John Sengia, effective the last day before the first day of the start of the 2023-2024 school year to accept another teaching position in a neighboring district.
2) Spring Grove Area High School English Instructor – Michael Shoupe, effective August 1, 2023, to accept a teaching position in another district.
3) Spring Grove Elementary School Part Time Nutrition Support – Rachel Smith, effective July 9, 2023, to accept a full-time position with another employer.
B. Approval of the following transfers:
1) Spring Grove Area School District Elementary Assistant Principal – Ashlie Rittle, from Spring Grove Area School District Instructional Support Teacher to Spring Grove Area School District Elementary Assistant Principal, effective August 14, 2023. Compensation established at a prorated annualized salary of $98,000.
2) Spring Grove Elementary School Head Cook – Nutrition Supervisor – Tuesday DeCello, from Spring Grove Elementary School Lead Cook to Spring Grove Elementary School Head Cook – Nutrition Supervisor, effective August 21, 2023. Compensation established at $19.25 per hour for 7 hours per day, 180 days per year.
3) Spring Grove Intermediate School Instructional Assistant - Special Education – Shannon Knotts, from Spring Grove Intermediate School Lead Cook to Spring Grove Intermediate School Instructional Assistant – Special Education – Emotional Support, effective August 21, 2023. Compensation established at the current hourly rate for 7 hours per day, 180 days per year.
C. Approval of the following appointments, provisionally hired pending receipt of updated clearances and completed Act 168 disclosure forms from previous employers:
1) Spring Grove Area School District Long Term Substitute – Patricia (Trish) Lackey, effective for 2023-2024 school year. Compensation established at Step 1 of the Bachelor’s Schedule.
2) Spring Grove Area School District Long Term Substitute – Heather Altland, effective for 2023-2024 school year. Compensation established at Step 1 of the Bachelor’s Schedule.
3) Spring Grove Area School District Elementary Instructor – Janelle Heilman, effective at the beginning of the 2023-2024 school year. Compensation established at Step 15 on the Master’s Schedule.
D. Approval of the following coaches for the 2023-2024 Fall Season, with compensation determined by the Coaches’ Salary Matrix and the stipends noted below, and authorizing discretion to reduce, pro-rate, or cancel any appropriated payment because of a delayed, shortened, or canceled season:
Job Title |
Coach Name |
Stipend |
Boys Soccer - Varsity Head Coach |
Christopher Salemme |
$ 4,154.00 |
Boys Soccer - Varsity Assistant Coach |
Julian Digruttola |
$ 2,909.00 |
Boys Soccer - Varsity Assistant Coach |
Edward Medhurst |
$ 2,909.00 |
Cheerleading (Football) - Varsity Head Coach |
Hillary Gruzs |
$ 754.25 |
Cheerleading (Football) - Varsity Assistant Coach |
Kayla Bennett |
$ 754.25 |
Cheerleading (Football) - Varsity Assistant Coach |
Hannah Wheler |
$ 754.25 |
Cheerleading (Football) - Junior High Head Coach |
Kelsey Pedmo |
$ 754.25 |
Cross Country - Varsity Head Coach |
Brian Bahn |
$ 4,193.00 |
Cross Country - Varsity Assistant Coach |
Paxton Drumheller |
$ 2,100.00 |
Cross Country - Junior High Head Coach |
Stephen Perago |
$ 2,300.00 |
Field Hockey - Varsity Head Coach |
Julia Baer |
$ 4,504.00 |
Field Hockey - Varsity Assistant Coach |
Brandy Baker |
$ 2,909.00 |
Field Hockey - Junior High Head Coach |
To Be Determined |
|
Field Hockey - Junior High Assistant Coach |
Aubree Ross |
$ 2,493.00 |
Football - Varsity Head Coach |
Thomas Trone |
$ 6,500.00 |
Football - Varsity Assistant Coach |
Kyle Sprenkle |
$ 1,845.50 |
Football - Varsity Assistant Coach |
Eric Baumgardner |
$ 3,641.00 |
Football - Varsity Assistant Coach |
Benjamin Redding |
$ 3,541.00 |
Football - Varsity Assistant Coach |
Weston Yohe |
$ 3,541.00 |
Football - Varsity Assistant Coach |
Jeffrey Zinn |
$ 1,820.50 |
Football - 9th Grade Head Coach |
Nathan Smith |
$ 3,342.00 |
Football - 9th Grade Assistant Coach |
Matthew Gobrecht |
$ 2,993.00 |
Football - 8th Grade Head Coach |
Stephen Hersh |
$ 1,558.75 |
Football - 8th Grade Assistant Coach |
Darren Ray |
$ 1,558.75 |
Football - 8th Grade Assistant Coach |
Samuel Biesecker |
$ 1,558.75 |
Football - 8th Grade Assistant Coach |
Joshua Ross |
$ 1,558.75 |
Girls Soccer – Varsity Head Coach |
Tyler Smith |
$ 4,154.00 |
Girls Soccer – Varsity Assistant Coach |
Christopher Schwab |
$ 2,909.00 |
Girls Soccer – Varsity Assistant Coach |
Sarah Jennings |
$ 1,454.50 |
Girls Soccer – Varsity Assistant Coach |
Michaela Landis |
$ 1,454.50 |
Girls Tennis - Varsity Head Coach |
Tara Osborne |
$ 3,000.00 |
Girls Tennis - Varsity Assistant Coach |
To Be Determined |
|
Girls Volleyball - Varsity Head Coach |
Elizabeth Zeigler |
$ 4,604.00 |
Girls Volleyball - Varsity Assistant Coach |
Samantha Strausbaugh |
$ 3,134.00 |
Golf - Varsity Head Coach |
Shane Grim |
$ 3,000.00 |
E. Approval of the following support staff to assist students during the 2022-2023 ESY Program, with compensation established at the current hourly rate or the minimum hourly rate for staff who are not currently in regular position within the district:
1) Tabitha Blizzard, Elementary
2) Morgan Molison, Elementary
F. Approval of the following individuals, pending receipt of updated clearances, to work aquatics events at the established hourly aquatics rate in the matrix and provide aquatic assistance during community swim activities:
1) Elijah Lancaster, Lifeguard/Swim Aide
2) Colin Trone, Lifeguard/Swim Aide
Vote by roll call on all items resulted in the motion carrying by unanimous vote.
Ioannidis welcomed and congratulated, Ashlie Rittle, Elementary Assistant Principal, Heather Altland, long-term Substitute, and Janelle Heilman, SGE elementary education teacher, who were present at the meeting.
PROGRAM REPORTS
CURRICULUM
8. Following a report of the Curriculum Committee’s recommendations read by Karen Baum, Baum moved, and Ramsay seconded the following:
A. Approval to allow Clotilde Meurin of Chatou, France, as an International Foreign Exchange Student and enroll in the Spring Grove Area School District as a high school student for the 2023-2024 school year, contingent upon receipt of appropriate immunization documentation and verifying the J-1 Visa in accordance with Board Policy No. 239, with acknowledgment from the host parents that they bear full responsibility for the student’s wellbeing throughout the school year.
B. Approval to enter into agreement with Penn State York and provide district facilities as a practicum and accept Penn State York student teachers / student interns.
Vote by roll call resulted in the motion carrying by unanimous vote.
Rohrbaugh called for an executive session following adjournment to discuss personnel items.
ADJOURNMENT: Trettel moved for adjournment at 7:35 PM. Ramsay seconded. Meeting adjourned by unanimous voice vote.
RESPECTFULLY SUBMITTED BY:
Mark A. Czapp, Director of Business Operations/Board Secretary
June 26, 2023 Directors' Study Forum Minutes
SPRING GROVE AREA SCHOOL DISTRICT
BOARD OF SCHOOL DIRECTORS
DIRECTORS’ STUDY FORUM MEETING MINUTES
DATE/TIME of MEETING: June 26, 2023 @ 7:27 PM
LOCATION of MEETING: Spring Grove Area Middle School, 244 Old Hanover Road, Spring Grove, PA
ATTENDANCE:
The following School Directors were in attendance: Karen Baum, Rachel Rohrbaugh, Rodney Shearer, Doug Stein, Dave Trettel, Doug White, Nicole Wilson
The following School Directors were absent: Ben Ramsay, Michael Ritz
The following Spring Grove Area School District Administrators were in attendance: Dr. George W. Ioannidis, Superintendent, Dr. Steve Guadagnino, Assistant Superintendent, Mr. Mark Czapp, Director of Business Operations/Board Secretary (via Zoom), Dr. Michelle Ludwig, Director of Pupil Services
A directors’ study meeting of the Board of School Directors of the Spring Grove Area School District was held on Monday, June 26, 2023, in the LGI Room #242 of Spring Grove Area Middle School, 244 Old Hanover Road, Spring Grove, following adjournment of the voting meeting. Rachel Rohrbaugh, Board President, called the meeting to order at 7:27 PM noting the same seven board members in attendance from the earlier meeting.
PUBLIC COMMENT
There was no public comment.
BUSINESS AND FINANCE REPORTS
BUDGET AND FINANCE
Mark Czapp introduced Chris Gibbons, Concord Public Finance, to present a proposed Reimbursement Resolution, Financial Schedule, and comparison of Existing Debt Service vs. Restructured Debt Service with current rates, for review. As the Board moves forward with capital projects, Gibbons presented future borrowing options and reported that adoption of a Resolution would preserve the opportunity for the district to reimburse itself for expenditures related to the projects and incurred prior to the completion of any bond issuance or bank loan. Gibbons noted there is no action required by the Board at present. Ioannidis stated that funds in Capital Reserve could be used to help cover costs of upcoming projects; but traditionally, Capital Reserve has been earmarked for items listed on the building maintenance schedule that is updated annually and provided to board members during the Capital Projects Tour. Those listed projects are available on the Board’s webpage. Neighboring districts’ Capital Reserve balances, if available, may be shared at a future meeting.
BUILDINGS AND GROUNDS
Ioannidis presented a proposed Regional Recreation Services Agreement between the District/Spring Grove Borough/Paradise and Jackson Townships and the YMCA of the Roses for review. The document provides for continuation of what had previously been the partnership agreement among the municipalities and the Spring Grove Area Regional Parks and Recreation Center (SGRPRC). Ioannidis indicated that there is no cost to the district to be a partner. Betty Stein, SGRPRC representative, shared examples of in-kind services provided by the district to students that are part of the center’s before/after school care program. The Board will consider approval of the agreement at the July or August voting meeting. Mrs. Stein also suggested that the Board appoint an alternate representative to serve as district representative moving forward, since serving as SGRPRC representative may be considered a conflict of interest.
Bill Stiles presented a summary of items reviewed during the June 21st Buildings and Grounds Committee meeting, highlighting changes in potential sites for the maintenance facility. Aerial surveys providing more detailed topography of the three newly-considered site locations are tentatively scheduled the next week, weather permitting. Ioannidis stated that over recent years, previous board members have continued to review the schedule of capital projects, including the maintenance facility, in addition to discussing the possibility of borrowing funds to cover costs for the projects. Minutes of the committee meeting were provided.
MANAGEMENT COMMITTEE REPORTS
POLICY
At the June 12th meeting, a rough draft of the Code of Student Conduct and General Operating Procedures was shared with board members. Having received no feedback, Dr. Ludwig presented the final draft of the documents for review. The Board will consider approval at the July 17 regular voting meeting.
As mentioned during a Policy Committee meeting held on June 12th, and as documented in posted minutes of the meeting, several proposed policies were presented as the result of recent changes in legislation. Policies #137, #137.1, #137.2, and #137.3 address opportunities to students enrolled in a home education program. Policies #200, #202, #204, #217, #221, and #251 address students and families experiencing homelessness. The administration is currently developing procedures to manage how parents of homeschooled students and families experiencing homelessness can request access to available services. The Board will consider approval of a first reading at the July 17th regular voting meeting, with a second and final reading tentative with August 14th DSF meeting items.
Shearer requested stronger language be inserted in policy #251 to define homeless. Ludwig stated that the law does not allow for asking specific types of questions when a student is enrolling. Proposed changes to the law are addressed at the legislative level. Wilson agreed, stating that proactive steps that can be taken by a School Board should be taken. Ioannidis reported that language of proposed policies follows the law, according to comments by the solicitor; if anything changes, board members will be alerted.
PERSONNEL
Stein presented a memorandum of proposed personnel actions for consideration of approval at the July 17th regular voting meeting.
ATHLETICS AND MUSIC
A suggestion to consider a Stadium Scoreboard Ribbon Cutting ceremony was reviewed. Steph Kennedy, Community Relations Coordinator, has suggested October 19th when this year’s “Meet the Rockets” event is slated to be held in conjunction with the Homecoming Community Celebration (K-12) and the homecoming parade. Several groups of students and members of the community-at-large will be represented on that date. Kennedy is working through the details and potential sponsorships. Stiles anticipates the scoreboard will be up and operational beginning in August, giving returning students of the AVJ class time to get acclimated to the new scoreboard and its features. More information to follow.
Ioannidis reported that Kate King, Executive Director of Spring Grove Regional Parks and Recreation Center, received permission from Jackson Township to place a banner at the front entrance of the campus to announce the coming of the partnership with the YMCA. No action is needed by the School Board.
CURRICULUM
Wilson presented a proposed affiliation agreement with Penn State York for review. Dr. Guadagnino stated the agreement is like others presented to allow for university students to conduct internships and complete necessary credit hours on site. The Board will consider approval at the July 17th regular voting meeting.
PLANNING
White requested that the administration consider implementing a staff dress code for inclusion in staff handbooks. Ioannidis stated that there is provision in the current CBA that any discussion regarding a dress code would be done “jointly” between the District and the Association. He will reach out to Association representatives to begin the conversation.
Rohrbaugh called for an executive session to discuss personnel following adjournment of the meeting.
ADJOURNMENT: Trettel moved for adjournment at 8:30 PM. Wilson seconded. Meeting adjourned by unanimous voice vote.
RESPECTFULLY SUBMITTED BY:
Mark A. Czapp, Director of Business Operations/Board Secretary
June 26, 2023 Voting Meeting Minutes
SPRING GROVE AREA SCHOOL DISTRICT
BOARD OF SCHOOL DIRECTORS
REGULAR VOTING MEETING MINUTES
DATE/TIME of MEETING: June 26, 2023 @ 7:00 PM
LOCATION of MEETING: Spring Grove Area Middle School, 244 Old Hanover Road, Spring Grove, PA
ATTENDANCE:
The following School Directors were in attendance: Karen Baum, Rachel Rohrbaugh, Rodney Shearer, Doug Stein, Dave Trettel, Doug White, Nicole Wilson
The following School Directors were absent: Ben Ramsay, Michael Ritz
The following Spring Grove Area School District Administrators were in attendance: Dr. George W. Ioannidis, Superintendent, Dr. Steve Guadagnino, Assistant Superintendent, Mr. Mark Czapp, Director of Business Operations/Board Secretary (via Zoom), Dr. Michelle Ludwig, Director of Pupil Services
A regular voting meeting of the Board of School Directors of the Spring Grove Area School District was held on Monday, June 26, 2023, in the LGI Room #242 of Spring Grove Area Middle School, 244 Old Hanover Road, Spring Grove. Rachel Rohrbaugh, Board President, called the meeting to order at 7:00 PM. The Pledge of Allegiance was recited, and a moment of silence was observed.
Roll call reflected seven board members in attendance, with Ben Ramsay and Mike Ritz absent for personal reasons
Rohrbaugh reported that an executive session was held on June 12, 2023, for personnel. An executive session was also held this evening at 5:30 PM prior to the start of the voting meeting to discuss negotiations.
PUBLIC COMMENT
There was no public comment.
SUPERINTENDENT’S REPORT
Ioannidis shared congratulations with Wyatt Amspacher who won 1st place in the PeoplesBank/Stock Market Competition for York County under the direction of Nicci Riser.
Congratulations were also extended to the following student athletes and gymnasts:
- Ella Bahn took first place in the 100m and 300m hurdles, and the high jump at the District III Championships.
- Laila Campbell took first place in the 100m and 200m dash and set new records in both events at District III Championship.
- Maylee Campbell (SGE) placed second in the floor exercise at Level 3 States.
- Aubrey Zartman (SGE) placed second on the balance beam at Level 3 States.
- Mario DeRienzo (PES) placed first on the vault at the Region 7 Men’s Championships.
- Xavier DeRienzo (MS) placed 1st in the floor exercise and rings, placed 3rd in parallel bars and all-around at the Eastern National Championships, and placed 3rd in the floor exercise at the Region 7 Men’s Championships.
Congratulations to these athletes.
CORRESPONDENCE
There was no correspondence.
LEGISLATIVE UPDATE
Ioannidis reported there are several indications that Pennsylvania could be in for a delayed passage of the budget under new leadership. There also appears to be a renewed effort for vouchers, which may or may not have a direct impact on funding to schools.
YORK COUNTY SCHOOL OF TECHNOLOGY
Trettel stated there was nothing of significance to report following the most recent meeting.
YORK ADAMS ACADEMY
There was no report, as Baum stated YAA does not have summer meetings.
SPECIAL COMMITTEE REPORT/UPDATE
Ioannidis provided an update regarding the opening of the Rocket Wellness Center, sharing participation rates, appointment trends, and satisfaction ratings, etc., to date. Ioannidis will continue to provide updates and will include a cost savings analysis at some point in the future. He also noted that all employee data is completely confidential.
APPROVAL OF MINUTES
1. Baum moved to approve the minutes from the May 22, 2023, Regular Voting Meeting and respective Voting and Directors’ Study Forum Meetings held on June 12, 2023. Trettel seconded the motion, unanimously approved by voice vote.
TREASURER’S REPORT
2. White presented the Treasurer’s Report for the month ending May 31, 2023. White moved to approve the report as presented. Trettel seconded the motion, approved by unanimous vote.
BUSINESS/FINANCE REPORTS
BUDGET AND FINANCE
3. Following a report of the Budget and Finance Committee’s recommendations read by Doug White, White moved, and Wilson seconded the following:
A. Approval of the Accounts Payable lists, as presented.
B. Approval of the attached budgetary transfers for the 2022-2023 fiscal year in addition to the following:
1) Transfer from General Fund to the Capital Reserve Fund (total transfer $407,654.92):
a. $ 18,566.84 for ESSER II Expenditures
b. $134,737.08 for ESSER III Expenditures
c. $254,351.00 for COPS Office School Violence Prevention Program
Ioannidis gave a brief explanation of the budgetary transfers.
Vote by roll call resulted in the motion carrying by unanimous vote.
BUILDINGS AND GROUNDS
4. Following a report of the Buildings and Grounds Committee’s recommendations read by Doug White, White moved, and Trettel seconded the following:
A. Approval to add PA Flight Club to the organizations included on the attached list of approved entities for consideration as eligible for waiver of rental fees for usage of facilities.
Vote by roll call resulted in the motion carrying by unanimous vote.
BUILDINGS AND GROUNDS INFORMATIONAL ITEMS:
The following mandated fire drills for the month were entered into the minutes:
SCHOOL BUILDING |
DATE OF DRILL |
MINUTES |
SECONDS |
New Salem Elementary |
05/22/2023 |
1 |
43 |
Paradise Elementary |
05/24/2023 |
1 |
27 |
Spring Grove Elementary |
05/12/2023 |
2 |
10 |
Spring Grove Area Intermediate |
05/11/2023 |
2 |
20 |
Spring Grove Area Middle School |
05/10/2023 |
1 |
38 |
Spring Grove Area High School |
05/08/2023 |
4 |
48 |
Minutes from the public Buildings and Grounds Committee Meeting held on June 21, 2023, were entered into the Minutes.
TRANSPORTATION
5. Following a report of the Transportation Committee’s recommendations read by Doug White, White moved, and Wilson seconded the following:
A. Approval of the following additional contracted Krise Bus Company Bus/Van Driver for the 2022-2023 school year and summer of 2023 in accordance with the pupil transportation state regulations as set forth in 22 Pa Code 23.4:
1) Aracelys Figueroa
2) Gordon Miles
3) Mercedes Monroe
4) Patty Mummert
Vote by roll call resulted in the motion carrying by unanimous vote.
MANAGEMENT REPORTS
POLICY
6. Following a report of the Policy Committee’s recommendations read by Karen Baum, Baum moved, and Trettel seconded the following:
A. Approval of a second reading for the following policies:
1) Policy 719: Facility Dogs
2) Policy 831.1: Electronic Data Storage
B. Approval of the 2023-2024 Operational Plan as reflected on the attached and reviewed during the June 12, 2023, public school board meeting.
C. Approval to engage Dr. Howard Farrington, MD, 2030 Thistle Hill Drive, Suite 200, Spring Grove, PA, during the 2023-2024 school year, as needed, to complete mandated student physical examinations.
D. Approval for Karen Baum to continue as Board Representative on the York Adams Academy Joint Operating Committee for the 2023-2024 school term.
E. Authorization for Kristen Mummert to serve as Student Representative to the Board of School Directors and be a non-voting member from September 2023 through May 2024 at regular voting meetings.
F. Acknowledgment and/or acceptance of the following donations in accordance with Board Policy No. 702, Gifts, Grants and Donations:
1) A monetary donation of $100 from St. Pauls’ United Church of Christ (Stoverstown) to support the District Facilities Department.
2) Donation of a Pearl PK910C Student Bell Kit with Rolling Case from Melissa Culp to support the District Music Department.
3) Donation of a $100 gift card to Genova’s from Martin’s Framing Gallery in appreciation to Spring Grove Intermediate teachers, administrators and staff.
4) Monetary donations from the following to support the Backpack Program through the District’s Inaugural Spring Volleyball Beach Blast:
a. $100 from Kirby and Sheri Orewiler
b. $100 from Schmuck Lumber Co., Inc.
c. $100 from C & G Refrigeration
d. $100 from Quality Service Settlements, LLC
e. $250 from Valley Products Company
f. $250 from various members of an anonymous donor family
Vote by roll call on resulted in the motion carrying by unanimous vote.
POLICY INFORMATIONAL ITEM:
Minutes from the public Policy Committee Meeting held on June 12, 2023, were entered into the Minutes.
PERSONNEL
7. Following a report of the Personnel Committee’s recommendations read by Doug Stein, Stein moved, and Baum seconded the following:
A. Approval of the following resignations:
1) New Salem Elementary School PT Nutrition Support – Christine Jackson, effective June 7, 2023, for personal reasons.
2) Varsity Assistant Field Hockey Coach – Lindy Eisenhart, effective June 7, 2023, for personal reasons.
3) Spring Grove Intermediate School Instructional Assistant – Special Education (Learning Support) – Rhonda Becker, effective June 28, 2023, for the purposes of relocation.
B. Approval of the following appointments, provisionally hired pending receipt of updated clearances and completed Act 168 disclosure forms from previous employers:
1) Spring Grove Area School District Elementary Instructor – Caley McGuigan, effective at the beginning of the 2023-2024 school year, pending verification of Pennsylvania certification. Compensation established at Step 1 on the Bachelor’s Schedule.
2) Spring Grove Elementary School Full Time Custodian (2nd Shift) – Tammy Luckenbaugh effective June 27, 2023, with compensation established at $15.30 per hour for 8 hours per day, 260 days per year.
3) Spring Grove Area High School Special Education Instructor – John Franklin, IV, effective at the beginning of the 2023-2024 school year, pending verification of Pennsylvania certification. Compensation established at Step 5 on the Bachelor + 24 Schedule or appropriate column based on education level at the start of the 2023-2024 school year.
4) Spring Grove Elementary School Principal – Orvale (Chip) Fissel, effective upon release from the current school district. Compensation established at an annualized salary of $124,500.
C. Approval of the following individual pending receipt of clearances and completed Act 168 disclosure forms from previous employers, with compensation established at $10.75 per hour:
1) Tyrece Reed, Student Custodian
D. Approval of the following classified substitute for the 2022-2023 school year at the hourly rates indicated on the Support Staff Compensation (Minimum Salary) Matrix, provisionally hired pending receipt of updated clearances, and completed Act 168 disclosure forms from previous employers:
1) Tyler Crushong
Vote by roll call on all items resulted in the motion carrying by unanimous vote.
Ioannidis welcomed and introduced newest Rocket team members, John Franklin, Caley McGuigan, and Chip Fissel.
PROGRAM REPORTS
ATHLETICS AND MUSIC
8. Following a report of the Athletics and Music Committee’s recommendations read by David Trettel, Trettel moved, and Baum seconded the following:
A. Approval to enter into the following proposed agreements with OSS Orthopaedic Hospital, LLC d/b/a/ OSS Health, to transition into the 2023-2024 school year without interruption to the necessary services needed for continuity of our programs and services to students:
1) Professional Services Agreement for OSS to provide one Physician and one Athletic Trainer for services and responsibilities as set forth in Exhibit A of the attached.
2) Substitute Athletic Trainer Services Agreement for OSS to secure the assistance of a substitute Athletic Trainer on those occasions when the District’s Athletic Trainer is unavailable, to provide services and responsibilities as set forth in Exhibit A of the attached.
Vote by roll call resulted in the motion carrying by unanimous vote.
CURRICULUM
9. Following a report of the Curriculum Committee’s recommendations read by Nicole Wilson, Wilson moved, and Trettel seconded the following:
- Approval to purchase the attached list of textbooks for the English Language Arts and Science departments for the 2023-2024 school year.
- Approval for four high school Student Council students to attend the PASC Summer Leadership Camp at Susquehanna University on July 9 – 13, 2023.
- Overnight Conference Requests:
1) Approval for David Gipe and Brian Walz, District Technicians, to attend and participate in the MacAdmins Annual Conference at the Penn State Conference Center Hotel, State College, PA, on July 18-21, 2023.
2) Approval for Bill Stiles, District Facilities Manager, to attend and participate in the PASBO Steel Eagle Leadership Institute at the Omni Bedford Springs Resort, Bedford, PA, on July 11-12, 2023.
Vote by roll call resulted in the motion carrying by unanimous vote.
ADJOURNMENT: Trettel moved for adjournment at 7:27 PM. Wilson seconded. Meeting adjourned by unanimous voice vote.
RESPECTFULLY SUBMITTED BY:
Mark A. Czapp, Director of Business Operations/Board Secretary
June 12, 2023 Directors' Study Forum Minutes
SPRING GROVE AREA SCHOOL DISTRICT
BOARD OF SCHOOL DIRECTORS
DIRECTORS STUDY FORUM MEETING
DATE/TIME of MEETING: June 12, 2023 @ 7:07 PM
LOCATION of MEETING: SPRING GROVE AREA MIDDLE SCHOOL, 244 OLD HANOVER ROAD, SPRING GROVE, PA
ATTENDANCE:
The following School Directors were in attendance:
Karen Baum, Ben Ramsay, Michael Ritz, Rachel Rohrbaugh, Rodney Shearer, Doug Stein, Doug White, Nicole Wilson
The following School Directors were absent:
Dave Trettel
The following Spring Grove Area School District Administrators were in attendance:
Dr. George W. Ioannidis, Superintendent, Dr. Steve Guadagnino, Assistant Superintendent, Dr. Michelle Ludwig, Director of Pupil Services, Mark Czapp, Director of Business Operations/Board Secretary
A Directors’ Study meeting of the Board of School Directors of the Spring Grove Area School District was held on Monday, June 12, 2023, following adjournment of the voting meeting. Rachel Rohrbaugh, Board President, called the meeting to order at 7:07 PM, noting the same eight board members in attendance from the earlier voting meeting.
PUBLIC COMMENT
There was no public comment.
BUSINESS AND FINANCE COMMITTEE REPORTS:
BUDGET AND FINANCE
Mark Czapp presented budgetary transfers for the 2022-2023 school year. The board will consider approval of the proposed transfers at the June 26th regular voting meeting.
BUILDINGS AND GROUNDS
Ioannidis shared an update related to the Maintenance Facility project. At recent conversations with Jackson Township officials, it was shared that potential parking space requests and other considerations related to the YMCA project could potentially impact more than one acre of district property. The township’s suggestion was for the district to consider submitting one permit combining all proposed campus projects, reducing the engineering work and costs of numerous permit applications. A “Master Plan” was suggested to include various “phases” (with each phase requiring board approval as the district moves through each project). Next steps would include a conversation with First Capital to determine their interest in doing the proposed master plan and all projects associated with the various phases. The YMCA would be responsible for their costs related to their facility.
Bill Stiles reported that individual project permits would increase the cost and extend the timing by as much as two years. Ioannidis stated that a Buildings and Grounds Committee Meeting is scheduled for June 21 and proposed having a conversation with First Capital beforehand to determine their interest in taking on the additional projects. Ioannidis affirmed that the proposal on the table is a recommendation to create a master plan for all proposed campus projects. While some board members stated their hesitancy to move forward and spend money to commit to projects that have yet to be approved by the School Board, others noted there is no cost for an engineer to consider combining the projects. The next step will be to bring information back to the Board following the committee meeting on June 21st.
Ioannidis reported that the YMCA continues with the design phase of the building and is intending to propose updates to the Board at a future meeting. Fundraising efforts also continue, and the YMCA is working with the Spring Grove Area Regional Parks and Recreation Committee (SGRPRC) regarding the revised Governmental Interagency Agreement among municipalities and the school district. The administration will include updates on a future Board agenda as details are finalized.
The addition of PA Flight Club (Track and Field) to the Waiver of Use of Facilities Fees was presented for consideration. The Board will consider approval at the June 26th regular voting meeting.
MANAGEMENT COMMITTEE REPORTS:
POLICY
Per a Memorandum, Dr. Ludwig proposed continuing with Dr. Farrington as school physician for the 2023-2024 school year. Ludwig and Ioannidis have spoken with Everside Health about contracting for these services, along with potential nurses, in the future. Currently, the physician provides physicals for students needing services in addition to providing advice on specific student issues. The Board will consider approval at the June 26 regular voting meeting.
Mr. Czapp indicated Mrs. Baum confirmed interest in continuing as YAA representative. The Board will consider approval to reappoint Baum at the June 26 regular voting meeting.
Ioannidis presented the proposed Operational Plan for 2023-2024. The Board will consider approval at the June 26 regular voting meeting.
Ioannidis stated that several policies for consideration were presented during the Policy Committee Meeting held earlier this evening. Policies will be included on the June 26th Directors’ Study Forum for review and discussion before moving forward for consideration of approval of a first reading in July.
Ludwig presented a draft of the Code of Student Conduct, included as part of the Student/Parent proposed handbook, and asked Board members to respond to her with any recommended changes prior to the next regularly scheduled discussion meeting on June 26. The policies and proposed handbook items will be included for review and discussion during the June 26th Directors Study Forum.
Ioannidis reported that the results of the final 2022-2023 Student/Staff/Parent Survey are being compiled, and the administration will request the Board Committee preview the information before to bringing them to the full board.
PERSONNEL
Stein presented a confidential Memorandum proposing personnel actions to consider at the June 26th voting meeting. Karen Baum asked for executive session following adjournment of the meeting.
PROGRAM COMMITTEE REPORTS:
ATHLETICS AND MUSIC
Wilson presented proposed 2023-2024 OSS agreements for contracted services for review. Ioannidis noted that that agreements include Athletic Trainer, physician services, and substitute services. The Board questionedf the charges associated with the proposed agreement reflected an increase; Ioannidis will investigate prior year invoices and respond prior to a request for approval at the June 26 regular voting meeting.
CURRICULUM
Dr. Guadagnino reported that when new/revised courses are approved, the curricular team considers new/revised materials/resources to implement the class/es. Samples of materials recommended are available at the ESC for anyone wishing to review. The Board will consider approval of the list of textbooks/resources at the June 26th regular voting meeting.
The Board reviewed an affiliation agreement between the School District and Albright College. The Board will consider approval of the proposed agreement at the June 26th regular voting meeting.
The Board considered two proposed annual conference / overnight requests for approval:
- Technology Department personnel to attend the MacAdmins East Coast Conference; and,
- Facilities Manager, Bill Stiles, to attend the PASBO Steel Eagle Leadership Institute.
The Board will consider approval of the requests at the June 26 regular voting meeting.
PLANNING:
Stein presented a request to consider dedicating the recently approved scoreboard at the Stadium at the first varsity game scheduled in the stadium. The administration will take the request under consideration.
Board members asked if they might receive an update regarding the Rocket Wellness Center. Ioannidis will provide an update at the June 26 DSF meeting.
ADJOURNMENT:
Ritz moved for adjournment at 8:07 PM. Baum seconded. The meeting adjourned by unanimous voice vote.
RESPECTFULLY SUBMITTED BY:
Mark A. Czapp, Director of Business Operations/Board Secretary
June 12, 2023 Voting Meeting Minutes
SPRING GROVE AREA SCHOOL DISTRICT
BOARD OF SCHOOL DIRECTORS
REGULAR VOTING MEETING
DATE/TIME of MEETING: June 12, 2023 @ 7:00 PM
LOCATION of MEETING: SPRING GROVE AREA MIDDLE SCHOOL, 244 OLD HANOVER ROAD, SPRING GROVE, PA
ATTENDANCE:
The following School Directors were in attendance:
Karen Baum, Ben Ramsay, Michael Ritz, Rachel Rohrbaugh, Rodney Shearer, Doug Stein, Doug White, Nicole Wilson
The following School Directors were absent:
Dave Trettel
The following Spring Grove Area School District Administrators were in attendance:
Dr. George W. Ioannidis, Superintendent, Dr. Steve Guadagnino, Assistant Superintendent, Dr. Michelle Ludwig, Director of Pupil Services, Mark Czapp, Director of Business Operations/Board Secretary
A voting meeting of the Board of School Directors of the Spring Grove Area School District was held on Monday, June 12, 2023. Rachel Rohrbaugh, Board President, called the meeting to order at 7:00 PM. The pledge of allegiance was recited, followed by a moment of silence. Roll call confirmed eight board members in physical attendance with Dave Trettel absent for personal reasons.
Rohrbaugh reported there was an executive session held on May 22, 2023, to discuss personnel and review school safety and security items as required under Act 55.
PUBLIC COMMENT
There was no public comment.
CORRESPONDENCE
There was no correspondence. District notecards were placed at board members’ seats for use at their discretion.
ACTION VOTING ITEMS
BUDGET AND FINANCE
1. Following a report of the Budget and Finance Committee’s recommendations read by Doug White, White moved, and Baum seconded the following:
A. Approval of the homestead assessment exemption of $6,629 and a farmstead assessment exemption of approximately $6,629 for the school year beginning July 1, 2023, under the provisions of the Homestead Property Exclusion Program Act (part of Act 50 of 1998) and the Taxpayer Relief Act (Act 1 of 2006).
Vote by roll call resulted in the motion carrying by unanimous vote.
POLICY
2. Following a report of the Policy Committee’s recommendations read by Karen Baum, Baum moved, and Wilson seconded the following:
A. Approval of the Middle School Administration and Superintendent’s recommendation that the Agreement, Waiver and Stipulation, numbered 2022-2023, #004, and ratified on May 30, 2023, be approved as documented.
Vote by roll call resulted in the motion carrying by unanimous vote.
PERSONNEL
3. Following a report of the Personnel Committee’s recommendations read by Doug Stein, Stein moved, and Ramsay seconded the following:
A. Approval of the following resignations:
1) Spring Grove Area School District Elementary Assistant Principal – Dr. Marvin London, effective August 4, 2023, to accept a teaching position with new professional opportunities in another district.
2) Spring Grove Area School District Elementary Instructor – Lindsay Alley, effective the last day before the first day of the start of the 2023-2024 school year, to accept a position outside of education.
3) New Salem Elementary School Instructional Assistant – Special Education Learning Support – Maranda Madonna, effective June 5, 2023, for personal reasons.
4) Junior High Assistant Track and Field Coach – Dalton Rohrbaugh, effective June 1, 2023, for personal reasons.
B. Approval of the following instructional staff to teach during the 2023 Summer School Program, with compensation established at the 2022-2023 per diem rate or Bachelor Schedule Step 1 per diem rate for instructional staff who are not currently in a regular position within the District:
1) Paxton Drumheller, English
2) Stephen Perago, English
3) Rosalinda Staples, English
4) Michael Becker, Math
5) Melissa Grim, Math
6) Elizabeth Harner, Math
7) Renee Bosak, Science
8) Tyler Newcomb, Science
9) Cathy Drapiewski, Science
10) Kevin Riccio, Social Studies
11) Kyle Sprenkle, Social Studies
12) Anthony Miller, Health
13) Samantha Strausbaugh, Health
14) David Carns, Health
15) Jane Ardner, Grades 5,6
16) Jessica Gibble, Grades 5,6
17) Amanda Sterner, Grades K-4
18) Lauren Grove, Grades K-4
19) Alison Shriver, Grades K-4
20) Justice White, Grades K-4
21) Elizabeth Swiger, Grades K-4
22) Kendra Klunk, Grades K-4
23) Jennifer Horst, Grades K-4
24) Brittany Laughman, Grades K-4
25) Ryan Miller, Grades K-4
26) Haley Wagman, Grades K-4
27) Erin Celano, Grades 5,6
28) Heather Altland, Grades 5,6
29) Elizabeth Eveler, Substitute
30) Anne Shaffer, Substitute
31) Christopher Tanczos, Substitute
32) Stacy Reed, Substitute
33) Brian Link, Substitute
34) Pat Craig, Substitute
35) Pearl Wintrode, Substitute
C. Approval of the following support staff to assist students during the 2022-2023 Summer School Program, with compensation established at the current hourly rate or the minimum hourly rate for staff who are not currently in a regular position within the District.
1) Justine Bollinger
2) Kathryn Brandt
3) Melissa Lucabaugh
4) Meredith McCoury Howard
5) Jessica Reese
6) Noelia Vastardis
7) Addyson Wagman
8) Cloey Carl
9) Emma Evans
10) Amy Olesak, Health Room Assistant Nurse
11) Rosemarie Drusedum, Health Room Assistant Nurse
12) Barbara Colehouse, Health Room Assistant Nurse
D. Approval of the following instructional staff to facilitate the 2022-2023 Summer Pre-K Program, contingent upon the program’s implementation, with compensation established at the 2022-2023 per diem rate:
1) Annette Luckenbaugh
2) Wanda Peterson
3) Wendi Bulgarelli, Nurse
4) Chanda Barley, Substitute
E. Approval of the following support staff to assist students during the 2022-2023 Pre-K Program, contingent on the program’s implementation, with compensation established at the current hourly rate:
1) Hope Gracey, Instructional Assistant
2) Amy Bretzman, Instructional Assistant
3) Michele Soroko, Health Room Assistant Nurse – Licensed Substitute
F. Approval of the following instructional staff /professional substitutes to facilitate the 2022-2023 ESY Program, with compensation established at the 2022-2023 per diem rate or Bachelor Schedule Step 1 per diem rate for instructional staff who are not currently in a regular position within the District:
1) Wendi Bulgarelli, Nurse
2) Jhett Markle, Elementary
3) Autumn Leese, Elementary
4) Cassady Krinock, Secondary
5) Victoria Moser, Secondary Life Skills
6) Jennifer Rausch, Elementary Autism
7) Brittany Koser, Elementary Autism
8) Megan Myers, Elementary Autism Substitute
9) Patricia Lackey, Secondary
10) Sarah Chang, Secondary Autism
11) Brian Baker, Elementary Intensive Learning Support / Life Skills
G. Approval of the following support staff to assist students during the 2022-2023 ESY Program, with compensation established at the current hourly rate or the minimum hourly rate for staff who are not currently in regular position within the District:
1) Brittany McKee, Secondary
2) Lindsey Fascetta, Secondary
3) Angela Leese, Elementary
4) Lauren Wantz, Secondary Autism
5) Staci Eckard, Secondary Life Skills
6) Jessica Earnest, Secondary Life Skills
7) Alyssa Livingston, Elementary Autism
8) Morgan Renda, Elementary Autism
9) Kaitlyn Peake, Elementary Autism
10) Donna French, Elementary Autism
11) Matila Downey, Elementary Autism
12) Amy Olesak, Heath Room Assistant Nurse
- Approval of the following individual pending receipt of clearances and completed Act 168 disclosure forms from previous employers. Compensation established at $10.75 per hour.
1) Destiny Apgar, Student Custodian
I. Approval of the following new coach for the 2023-2024 Fall Season, with compensation determined by the Coaches’ Salary Matrix, and authorizing discretion to reduce, pro-rate, or cancel any appropriated payment because of a delayed, shortened, or canceled season:
Job Title |
Coach Name |
Stipend |
Field Hockey – Junior High Assistant Coach |
Aubree Ross |
$ 2,493.00 |
J. Approval of the following coach for the 2022-2023 school year to provide coverage for strength and conditioning activities, at $20.00 per hour:
Appointment |
Position |
Ryan Miller |
Strength and Conditioning Coach - Substitute |
K. Approval of the following classified substitutes for the 2022-2023 school year at the hourly rates indicated on the Support Staff Compensation (Minimum Salary) Matrix, provisionally hired pending receipt of updated clearances, and completed Act 168 disclosure forms from previous employers:
1) Lona Franklin
2) Kaitlyn Peake
Vote by roll call resulted in the motion carrying by unanimous vote.
ADJOURNMENT:
Ritz moved for adjournment at 7:07 PM. Baum seconded. The meeting adjourned by unanimous voice vote.
RESPECTFULLY SUBMITTED BY:
Mark A. Czapp, Director of Business Operations/Board Secretary
June 12, 2023 Policy Committee Meeting Minutes
SPRING GROVE AREA SCHOOL DISTRICT
BOARD OF SCHOOL DIRECTORS
POLICY COMMITTEE MEETING
DATE/TIME of MEETING: June 12, 2023 @ 5:30 PM
LOCATION of MEETING: Spring Grove Area Middle School, 244 Old Hanover Road, Spring Grove, PA 17362
ATTENDANCE:
The following School Directors were in attendance:
Karen Baum, Committee Chair, Ben Ramsay, Mike Ritz, Rachel Rohrbaugh, Rodney Shearer, Doug Stein, Doug White
Nicole Wilson arrived 5:56 PM
The following Spring Grove Area School District personnel were in attendance:
Dr. George W. Ioannidis, Superintendent, Dr. Steve Guadagnino, Assistant Superintendent, Dr. Michelle Ludwig, Director of Pupil, Services, Mark Czapp, Director of Business Operations, Suzanne Sterner, Board Recording Secretary
A Policy Committee meeting of the Spring Grove Area School District Board of School Directors was held on Monday, June 12, 2023. Karen Baum called the meeting to order at 5:30 PM.
LEGISLATIVE CHANGES CALLING FOR POLICY REVISIONS
Dr. Ioannidis reported that the impetus to proposed new policies and policy revisions was due to legislative actions at the state level requiring school districts to make considerations before the start of the 2023-2024 school year.
POLICIES RELATED TO HOMELESSNESS / FOSTER CARE / EDUCATIONAL INSTABILITY
Baum presented seven policies for consideration. Earlier this year, Senate Bill 324 was enacted into law requiring school entities to address and assist students experiencing educational instability. Dr. Ludwig gave an overview of the changes and noted that clarifying and expounding on the definition of “unaccompanied youth” was the focal point; definitions are now clearer and more codified. A Keystone Diploma, one of the proposed additions to language in Policy #251, was explained as an option available to identified unaccompanied youth. Ludwig reported that the district will continue to use a checklist to determine a student’s needs, status, and placement.
Ludwig reported that the district underwent a Homeless Audit last school year (the second in two consecutive years), scoring 93/100 this school year. One recommendation following the review was to make information more accessible on the website to assist homeless students with services and support beyond the educational environment. Ioannidis noted the positive results of the audit are a testament to the district’s work. Ioannidis added that proposed revisions to Policies #200, #202, #204, #217, and #221 are recommended to support the Pupil Services Department’s efforts and maintain consistent definitions throughout related policies to include students who are identified as experiencing educational instability.
There was some concern expressed by Board members concerning services extended to identified homeless students, particularly related to dress code. The administration indicated that the practice of working with families to provide appropriate and helpful economic resources for the family will continue and limitations and time limits will be established and enforced for consistency among all students regardless of their status.
POLICIES RELATED TO HOME EDUCATION PROGRAMS
Baum presented four policies, #137, 137.1, 137.2, and 137.3, for review to address requirements as the result of legislative changes related to Home Education Program students.
Ioannidis reported that new requirements according to Act 55 have been placed on school districts to develop policies and procedures permitting children enrolled in home education programs to participate in district cocurricular activities, academic courses, and career and technical education programs on the same basis and eligibility as other students enrolled in the school district. Ioannidis explained that administrators are currently addressing what internal procedures and forms will be necessary to implement the proposed new and revised policies.
WRAP-UP / NEXT STEPS
On June 26th, a Directors’ Study Forum (DSF) will take place following adjournment of the regular voting meeting. The policies discussed at this evening’s committee meeting will be included on the DSF Agenda for review and discussion. A first reading is tentative for July 17, and a second and final reading is expected with August 14 DSF voting actions.
The meeting concluded at 6:20 PM.
RESPECTFULLY SUBMITTED BY:
Suzanne E. Sterner, Board Recording Secretary
May 22, 2023 Regular Voting Meeting Minutes
SPRING GROVE AREA SCHOOL DISTRICT
BOARD OF SCHOOL DIRECTORS
REGULAR VOTING MEETING
DATE/TIME of MEETING: May 22, 2023 @ 7:00 PM
LOCATION of MEETING: SPRING GROVE AREA MIDDLE SCHOOL, 244 OLD HANOVER ROAD, SPRING GROVE, PA
ATTENDANCE:
The following School Directors were in attendance:
Karen Baum, Ben Ramsay, Michael Ritz, Rachel Rohrbaugh, Rodney Shearer, Doug Stein, Dave Trettel, Doug White, Nicole Wilson
The following School Directors were absent: n/a
The following Spring Grove Area School District Administrators were in attendance:
Dr. George W. Ioannidis, Superintendent, Dr. Steve Guadagnino, Assistant Superintendent, Mr. Mark Czapp, Director of Business Operations/Board Secretary, Dr. Michelle Ludwig, Director of Pupil Services
A regular voting meeting of the Board of School Directors of the Spring Grove Area School District was held on Monday, May 22, 2023, in the LGI Room #242 of Spring Grove Area Middle School, 244 Old Hanover Road, Spring Grove. Rachel Rohrbaugh, Board President, called the meeting to order at 7:00 PM. The Pledge of Allegiance was recited, and a moment of silence was observed. Roll call reflected all nine board members in attendance.
Rohrbaugh reported that an executive session was held on May 8, 2023, to discuss negotiations and personnel matters, and an executive session for personnel was held prior to the start of tonight’s meeting. An executive session is scheduled following adjournment of the meeting to discuss School Safety and Security.
PUBLIC COMMENT
Adam Marsh, Spring Grove Area Scholarship Fund (SGASF) President, presented a brief history of the Fund. On May 16th, SGASF presented $139,555 in scholarships to 65 students, bringing the total delivered to more than $2.65 million to 1,565 students. SGASF funds come from a variety of sources, and scholarships are available for traditional college and university tracks as well as trade schools. They recently launched the Rocket Fuel endowment campaign. Marsh thanked the Board and administration for their continued support.
Jerry Mascaro presented his final report as Spring Grove Music Boosters President. As Mascaro reflected on the music program over the past several years, he offered a challenge to board members to consider how to best support the future of the program with the number of interested students increasing and the number of music teachers remaining the same. He has been appreciative of the Board and administration’s support of the music programs in our schools. Board members thanked Mascaro for his years of service and dedication to the District and students.
Ioannidis thanked Marsh and Mascaro for their comments. He stated that the SGASF banquet was an incredible event, and the number of scholarships and student recipients are a testament to its success. He thanked Mascaro for his 12 years with the Music Booster Club, 8 of which he has served as President, and wished him well in all his future endeavors.
SUPERINTENDENT’S REPORT
Ioannidis welcomed and congratulated Colleen Donnelly on achieving her Doctorate Degree from Immaculata University. Dr. Donnelly graduated on May 12th after successfully defending her dissertation on the topic, “Maximizing Postsecondary Outcomes for Students with Disabilities: The Role of Special Educators in the Transition Planning Process.”
Ioannidis recognized eight retirees, noting that collectively they represent 190 years of experience. Each was presented with a gift of appreciation and bakery item: Pam Kimber – 26 years / High School Science Instructor; Noel Conway – 30 years / Middle School Math Instructor; Larry Carter – 9 years / SGE Custodian; Melinda Roy – 19 years / SGE 2nd grade Instructor; Jane Ardner – 33 years / SGI 5th grade Instructor; Holly Senft – 14 years / SGI Custodian; Seth Strausbaugh – 32 years / Middle School Math Instructor; and Ruth Wentz – 27 years / SGE Head Cook. We are grateful for their years of service to our students, families, and community, and wish them good health and much happiness.
Ioannidis welcomed and introduced Brian Hastings, who shared recent successes of the District Rocketry Program, noting that Spring Grove has the best and largest program in the country. The ninth-grade team placed 4th nationally last year, 2nd at Battle of the Rockets this year in the target altitude event, and 4th in deployable payload. The TARC team made national news as the first ever to meet the target exactly. The sixth-grade team recently advanced to nationals. Alex Fiorillo, Captain of SLI, Gautham Narayan, SGI TARC team member, and Max Trimmer, SLI team member, spoke to their thrill and pride to be part of the program. Of many schools that are part of the program, Spring Grove beat them all. Hastings reported having 70 members from grades 6-12, and he thanked Janet Senft, first year assistant advisor, for her help. Senft shared her pleasure working with the team. Being part of the program takes a lot of hard work, and it rivals university programs. The group thanked board members and administrators for their support and presented each board member with mission patches.
Congratulations to four Spring Grove residents who completed credit requirements for graduation through York Adams Academy: Mary Sudik, Efrahin Macedonio, Dravyn Sterner, and Robert Zink.
Students of Spring Grove’s first place winning Mock Trial Team, team 3, and second place winning Mock Trial Team, team 1, were honored at Law Day 2023 in York during a celebratory luncheon held at the Valencia Ballroom. The event theme was Cornerstones of Democracy: Civics, Civility, and Collaboration, and was organized by a committee of the York County Bar Association. Students were recognized earlier in the spring. Thank you to Kierhan Boyle – team 1 coach, and Jason Baker – team 2 coach, for their leadership.
Congratulations to High School students Lucca Vito and Chela Martin on receiving York County ENCORE Outstanding Performer Awards. They each won a $500 scholarship, and Chela received a $1,000 scholarship.
The City of York Human Relations Commission recognized High School student, Sarah Czapp, on being nominated for the Lewis Atwater Student Leader Award. Sarah was recognized with a certificate acknowledging her leadership in the community.
Ioannidis reported that this evening would have been Trenton Leggett’s final Student Representative report, but Leggett was unable to attend. Leggett served as 2023 Student Council President and has been an active member in Nutrition Council, Varsity Club, and the Renaissance Leadership group. He was a member of the Baseball Team, Varsity Club, and the Bowling Team. Leggett participated in the PIAA Leadership Team in 2022 and has served as part of Link Crew, modeling leadership, and paying it forward with underclassmen. Ioannidis shared a few items regarding districtwide activities as the school year comes to a close.
CORRESPONDENCE
Rohrbaugh noted several correspondence items placed at seats, including a Letter from the Department of Education regarding prayers in schools, an invitation to York Suburban School District’s Youth Suicide in Schools presentation, and a reminder about graduation.
LEGISLATIVE UPDATE
Ioannidis reported that primary and special elections recently took place, with the Democratic party still maintaining control of the State House of Representatives. There are several proposed bills on the table, many not directly related to schools. PSBA legislative platform representatives are needed; interested board members should respond to Mrs. Rohrbaugh.
YORK COUNTY SCHOOL OF TECHNOLOGY
Trettel reported a meeting is scheduled for later in the month.
YORK ADAMS ACADEMY
Baum reported the next and final meeting for the school year is scheduled. Graduation is June 1st.
SPECIAL COMMITTEE REPORTS
Bill Stiles reported that the York/LIU Authority Board met on May 17th. The 23-24 proposed budget was passed. Membership costs have not increased in four years and will remain at $67,250. York Learning Center is doing a Building Assessment and Risk and Vulnerability Study. There is $1.7 million in capital reserves to support any renovations. Graduation is scheduled for May 24th.
APPROVAL OF MINUTES
1. Trettel moved to approve the minutes from the April 24, 2023, Regular Voting Meeting and respective Voting / Directors’ Study Forum Meetings held on May 8, 2023. Baum seconded the motion, unanimously approved by voice vote.
TREASURER’S REPORTS
2. White presented the Treasurer’s Report for month ending April 30, 2023. White moved to approve the report as presented. Wilson seconded the motion, approved by unanimous vote.
BUSINESS/FINANCE REPORTS
BUDGET AND FINANCE
3. Following a report of the Budget and Finance Committee’s recommendations read by Doug White, White moved, and Ramsay seconded the following:
A. Approval of the Accounts Payable lists, as presented.
- Approval of the Proposed General Fund Budget for the 2023-2024 fiscal year, with total revenues of $77,722,044, total expenditures of $83,537,441, with the shortfall of $5,815,397 to be funded from the General Fund Unreserved Fund Balance and setting the real estate tax millage rate at 24.0922 mills, reflecting a 0% increase from the 2022-2023 millage rate; in addition, earned income tax of ½% and real estate transfer tax of ½% under Act 511.
- Approval of the Nutrition Services Fund Budget for the 2023-2024 fiscal year, with total revenues of $2,863,150, total expenditures of $3,164,159, and an increase in breakfast and lunch meal pricing of $0.15.
- Reappointment of Douglas White as Board Treasurer for the Spring Grove Area School District for the period July 1, 2023, through June 30, 2024.
- Authorization for the superintendent to enter into all necessary agreements to meet the mandates for participation in Federal / State / Other Programs and/or Grants for the 2023-2024 school year as outlined on the attached chart, as well as any others that may become available and are approved by the Superintendent.
- Approval to engage Kochenour, Earnest, Smyser & Burg to conduct the audit of the district’s financial statements and perform related functions for fiscal year ending June 30, 2023, at a proposed fee not to exceed $12,950.00.
- Reappointment of Stock and Leader, Attorneys at Law, as School District Solicitor for the 2023-2024 fiscal year, with Gareth D. Pahowka, Esquire, named as principal counsel and primary contact with the firm.
- Appointment of ACNB Bank and PayPal to continue as District School Depositories for the period July 1, 2023, through June 30, 2024.
Rohrbaugh requested the Board review an alternate option related to item B and requested a separate vote.
Vote by roll call on items A and C-H resulted in the motion carrying by unanimous vote.
Following presentation of proposed language of item B reflecting a 1% tax increase, Trettel moved to act on the original motion as presented by White reflecting a 0% increase. Wilson seconded the motion. Motion to act accordingly passed by unanimous voice vote.
Vote by roll call on item B reflecting a 0% tax increase resulted in the motion carrying, with Shearer, Ramsay, Wilson, Trettel, Ritz and Rohrbaugh voting in favor. White, Stein and Baum voted against.
BUILDINGS AND GROUNDS
4. Following a report of the Buildings and Grounds Committee’s recommendations read by Doug White, White moved, and Ramsay seconded the following:
A. Approval to accept the proposal from First Capital Engineering, Inc. to provide Civil Consulting Engineering Services for the District Maintenance Facility Project as outlined in the attached Agreement (Scope of Services) under the leadership of Crabtree, Rohrbaugh and Associates, Inc., at a cost not to exceed $95,250.
Vote by roll call resulted in the motion carrying by unanimous vote.
Informational Item
The following mandated fire drills for the month were entered into the minutes:
SCHOOL BUILDING |
DATE OF DRILL |
MINUTES |
SECONDS |
New Salem Elementary |
04/21/2023 |
1 |
37 |
Paradise Elementary |
04/28/2023 |
0 |
59 |
Spring Grove Elementary |
04/18/2023 |
2 |
27 |
Spring Grove Area Intermediate School |
04/21/2023 |
2 |
12 |
Spring Grove Area Middle School |
04/05/2023 |
2 |
04 |
Spring Grove Area High School |
04/17/2023 |
4 |
45 |
MANAGEMENT REPORTS
POLICY
5. Following a report of the Policy Committee’s recommendations read by Karen Baum, Baum moved, and Ramsay seconded the following:
A. Approval of a first reading for the following policies:
1) Policy 719: Facility Dogs (new policy)
2) Policy 831.1: Electronic Data Storage (new policy)
B. Approval of the attached, updated agreement with Northern York County Regional Police Department for two School Resource Officers in the Spring Grove Area School District, during the 2023-2024 and 2024-2025 school years, at a cost of $89.55 per hour, per SRO for the 2023 calendar year, with any increase as of January 1st of 2024 and 2025, respectively, communicated to the District as soon as possible after establishment of the new rate.
C. Approval of the attached, updated agreement (MOU) between Spring Grove Area School District and Northern York County Regional Police Department as required under Act 44, the Safe Schools Act, and updated biennially.
D. Acceptance of the following donations/grants in accordance with Board Policy No. 702, Gifts, Grants and Donations:
1) Monetary donation in the amount of $325.00 from Nicholas Weaver to support the Future Farmers Club in memory of Larry Sterner.
2) Monetary donation in the amount of $100.00 from Connee and Calvin Plunkert to support the Future Farmers Club in memory of Larry Sterner.
3) Monetary donation in the amount of $500.00 from Keith and Lisa Murr to support the District Student Launch Initiative (SLI) Program.
4) Monetary Grant/Allocation from Sweet Charities of Hanover (Angel Fund / Feeding the Children Initiative) in the amount of $5,000.00 to support the District’s Nutrition Services Department and the Backpack Program.
5) Donations totaling more than $261,160 from school-affiliated organizations (PTOs, Booster Clubs, Scholarship Fund, Educational Fund) who sponsored and/or supplemented district costs during the 2022-2023 school year for various and sundry supplies, activities, equipment, incentives, student scholarships, teacher appreciation gifts, and other miscellaneous items.
White requested a separate vote on item A-1.
Vote by roll call on item A-1 resulted in the motion carrying with Trettel, Wilson, Ramsay, Baum and Rohrbaugh voting in favor. Ritz, Shearer, White and Stein voted against.
Vote by roll call on remaining items A-2 through D-5 resulted in the motion carrying by unanimous vote.
PERSONNEL
6. Following a report of the Personnel Committee’s recommendations read by Doug Stein, Stein moved, and Trettel seconded the following:
A. Approval of the following resignations:
1) Spring Grove Area School District Elementary Instructor – Elizabeth Eveler, effective July 31, 2023, to accept a position at a local university.
2) Spring Grove Area Intermediate School Instructional Assistant – Special Education – Elizabeth Stabley, effective May 5, 2023, for personal reasons.
3) Spring Grove Area High School Full Time Custodian (2nd Shift) – Anatolii Budnyk, effective May 15, 2023, for personal and health reasons.
B. Approval of the following transfers:
1) Spring Grove Area High School Associate Principal – Christian Ehrhart, from Spring Grove Area High School Assistant Principal to Spring Grove Area High School Associate Principal, effective July 1, 2023. Compensation established an annualized salary of $110,000.00, pro-rated and retroactive for coverage during the 2022-2023 year.
2) Spring Grove Area School District Special Education Instructor – Noah Stachelek, from Spring Grove Elementary School Principal to Spring Grove Area School District Special Education Instructor, effective the last day before the first day of the start of the 2023-2024 school year. Compensation established Step 12 on the Master + 60 schedule.
C. Approval of the following appointment, provisionally hired pending receipt of updated clearances and completed Act 168 disclosure forms from previous employers:
1) Spring Grove Area School District Human Resources Generalist – Beverly Carpenter, effective June 26, 2023. Compensation established at an annualized salary of $66,000.
D. Approval of the following individual, pending receipt of updated clearances, for the 2022-2023 school year to work school events needing AV support / livestream support, at the established rate per event of either $40, $60, $110, or $150 depending on the event:
1) Daniel Fake
E. Approval of the following individuals, pending receipt of updated clearances, for the 2022-2023 school year to work athletic events at the established event rate in the matrix:
1) Amanda Cooper
2) Melissa Culp
F. Approval of the following individual holding a bachelor’s degree and completing the District’s Guest Teacher orientation program to substitute teach in all subject areas during the 2022-2023 school year at a rate of $110.00 per day and $125.00 per day beginning on the 21st day cumulative, provisionally hired pending receipt of updated clearances and completed Act 168 disclosure forms from previous employers:
1) Corrine Crushong
G. Approval of the following professional substitute for the 2022-2023 school year at a rate of $110.00 per day and $125.00 per day beginning on the 21st day cumulative, provisionally hired pending receipt of updated clearances and completed Act 168 disclosure forms from previous employers:
1) Christopher Messinger
H. Approval of the following classified substitutes for the 2022-2023 school year at the hourly rates indicated on the Support Staff Compensation (Minimum Salary) Matrix, provisionally hired pending receipt of updated clearances, and completed Act 168 disclosure forms from previous employers:
1) Fay Krout
2) Jennifer Lua
Vote by roll call on all items resulted in the motion carrying by unanimous vote.
Ioannidis welcomed and introduced newest Rocket team member, Beverly Carpenter.
PERSONNEL REPORT / FOR INFORMATION ONLY
A. FAMILY MEDICAL LEAVE ACT (FMLA) LEAVES GRANTED:
EMPLOYEE NAME |
BUILDING |
DEPARTMENT |
DATE LEAVE BEGINS (approximately) |
DATE LEAVE ENDS (approximately) |
Caitlin Beegle |
SGI |
5th Grade |
05/15/2023 |
06/02/2023 |
PROGRAM REPORTS
ATHLETICS AND MUSIC
7. Following a report of the Athletics and Music Committee’s recommendations read by David Trettel, Trettel moved, and Baum seconded the following:
- Approval for five high school student athletes and two adult chaperones, Jeff Laux, Student Athletics Coordinator, and Michaela Landis, High School Counselor, to attend and participate in the National Student Leadership Summit (NFHS) in Indianapolis, Indiana, July 29-31, 2023.
Vote by roll call resulted in the motion carrying by unanimous vote.
CURRICULUM
8. Following a report of the Curriculum Committee’s recommendations read by Nicole Wilson, Wilson moved, and Trettel seconded the following:
A. Approval to bring from the table the Certified Facility Dog action item tabled at the April 24, 2023, regular voting meeting, and reconsider the action as part of curriculum items.
B. Approval to acquire a full time Certified Facility Dog through United Disabilities Services Service Dogs for use by staff with students in the school setting to support mental wellness and promote a positive school climate, in accordance with newly developed Board Policy and Administrative Guidelines.
C. Approval to enter into the attached collaborative Early Enrollment Agreement with Commonwealth University of Pennsylvania and provide eligible high school students with the opportunity to enroll and participate in undergraduate courses offered by the University at a reduced rate for enrollment and be awarded post-secondary credit through the University’s Registrar’s Office.
D. Approval of the following new/revised curricula for the 2023-2024 school year:
TITLE |
DEPARTMENT |
Sculpture I - new course |
Art |
Student Instructional Assistant Internship Program - new course |
Business |
ELA - Kindergarten – revised (curriculum cycle) |
English Language Arts |
ELA - Grade 1 - revised (curriculum cycle) |
English Language Arts |
ELA - Grade 2 - revised (curriculum cycle) |
English Language Arts |
ELA - Grade 3 - revised (curriculum cycle) |
English Language Arts |
ELA - Grade 4 - revised (curriculum cycle) |
English Language Arts |
ELA - Grade 5 - revised (curriculum cycle) |
English Language Arts |
ELA - Grade 6 - revised (curriculum cycle) |
English Language Arts |
ELA - Grade 7 - revised (curriculum cycle) |
English Language Arts |
ELA - Grade 8 - revised (curriculum cycle) |
English Language Arts |
English 9 - revised (curriculum cycle) |
English Language Arts |
College Prep English 9 - revised (curriculum cycle) |
English Language Arts |
College Prep English 9 Honors - revised (curriculum cycle) |
English Language Arts |
English 10 - revised (curriculum cycle) |
English Language Arts |
College Prep English 10 - revised (curriculum cycle) |
English Language Arts |
College Prep English 10 Honors - revised (curriculum cycle) |
English Language Arts |
English 11 - revised (curriculum cycle) |
English Language Arts |
College Prep English 11 - revised (curriculum cycle) |
English Language Arts |
College Prep English 11 Honors - revised (curriculum cycle) |
English Language Arts |
AP English Literature and Composition - revised (curriculum cycle) |
English Language Arts |
English 12 - revised (curriculum cycle) |
English Language Arts |
College Prep English 12 - revised (curriculum cycle) |
English Language Arts |
English Composition I - College in the High School - revised (curriculum cycle) |
English Language Arts |
English Composition II – College in the High School – revised (curriculum cycle) |
English Language Arts |
Advanced Video Journalism I - revised (curriculum cycle) |
English Language Arts |
Advanced Video Journalism II - revised (curriculum cycle) |
English Language Arts |
Creative Writing I - revised (curriculum cycle) |
English Language Arts |
Creative Writing II - revised (curriculum cycle) |
English Language Arts |
Drama - revised (curriculum cycle) |
English Language Arts |
Journalism I - revised (curriculum cycle) |
English Language Arts |
Journalism II - revised (curriculum cycle) |
English Language Arts |
Journalism III - revised (curriculum cycle) |
English Language Arts |
SAT Preparation - revised (curriculum cycle) |
English Language Arts |
Mathematics and Sports - new course |
Math |
AP Physics C – Mechanics - new course |
Science |
Earth Science - new course |
Science |
Forensic Science - new course |
Science |
Introduction to Agriculture, Food, and Natural Resources – new course |
Science |
Science – Kindergarten - revised (curriculum cycle) |
Science |
Science – Grade 1 - revised (curriculum cycle) |
Science |
Science – Grade 2 - revised (curriculum cycle) |
Science |
Science – Grade 3 - revised (curriculum cycle) |
Science |
Science – Grade 4 - revised (curriculum cycle) |
Science |
Science – Grade 5 - revised (curriculum cycle |
Science |
Science – Grade 6 - revised (curriculum cycle) |
Science |
Science – Grade 7 - revised (curriculum cycle) |
Science |
Science – Grade 8 - revised (curriculum cycle) |
Science |
Science 9 - revised & renamed (curriculum cycle) |
Science |
Biology - revised (curriculum cycle) |
Science |
Biology Honors - revised (curriculum cycle) |
Science |
Physics - revised & renamed (curriculum cycle) |
Science |
Physics Honors – revised (curriculum cycle) |
Science |
Chemistry I - revised (curriculum cycle) |
Science |
Chemistry I Honors - revised (curriculum cycle) |
Science |
Environmental Science I - revised & renamed (curriculum cycle) |
Science |
Environmental Science II - revised & renamed (curriculum cycle) |
Science |
AP Biology - revised (curriculum cycle) |
Science |
AP Chemistry - revised (curriculum cycle |
Science |
Human Anatomy and Physiology I - revised (curriculum cycle) |
Science |
Human Anatomy and Physiology II - revised (curriculum cycle) |
Science |
Organic Chemistry I - revised (curriculum cycle) |
Science |
Science Independent Study - revised (curriculum cycle) |
Science |
Science Lab Assistant - revised (curriculum cycle) |
Science |
Wildlife Studies - revised (curriculum cycle) |
Science |
Aviation Capstone (AOPA) - new course |
STEM |
Design and Fabrication I - rewrite/rename |
STEM |
Design and Fabrication II - rewrite/rename |
STEM |
Metal Fabrication I - new course |
STEM |
Introduction to Small Engine Repair – revised |
STEM |
Introduction to the Trades – new course |
STEM |
Pre-flight Your Career (AOPA) - new course |
STEM |
Electronics and Robotics I - rewrite/rename |
STEM |
Electronics and Robotics II - rewrite/rename |
STEM |
STEM Capstone - new course |
STEM |
STEM Design and Fabrication – new course |
STEM |
Woodworking I - new course |
STEM |
White requested a separate vote on items A and B, respectively.
Vote by roll call on item A resulted in the motion carrying by unanimous vote.
Vote by roll call on item B resulted in the motion carrying with Ramsay, Trettel, Baum, Wilson, and Rohrbaugh voting in favor. White, Ritz, Stein, and Shearer voted against.
Vote by roll call on items C and D resulted in the motion carrying by unanimous vote.
Baum asked about participation rates and preparations for summer school/summer camp and requested to schedule an observation of the programs. Dr. Guadagnino stated that all programs are experiencing a good response, including the Extended School Year (ESY), and he will work with Mrs. Baum and any other interested board members to plan a visit.
ADJOURNMENT: Ritz moved for adjournment at 8:02 PM. Wilson seconded. Meeting adjourned by unanimous voice vote, and board members met for executive session to discuss school safety.
RESPECTFULLY SUBMITTED BY:
Mark A. Czapp, Director of Business Operations/Board Secretary
May 8, 2023 Directors' Study Forum
SPRING GROVE AREA SCHOOL DISTRICT
BOARD OF SCHOOL DIRECTORS
DIRECTORS’ STUDY FORUM MEETING
DATE/TIME of MEETING: May 8, 2023 @ 7:06 PM
LOCATION of MEETING: SPRING GROVE AREA MIDDLE SCHOOL
244 OLD HANOVER ROAD, SPRING GROVE, PA
ATTENDANCE:
The following School Directors were in attendance: Karen Baum, Ben Ramsay, Rachel Rohrbaugh, Rodney Shearer,
Doug Stein, Dave Trettel, Doug White, Nicole Wilson
The following School Directors were absent: Michael Ritz
The following Spring Grove Area School District Administrators were in attendance: Dr. George W. Ioannidis, Superintendent; Dr. Steve Guadagnino, Assistant Superintendent; Mr. Mark Czapp, Director of Business Operations/Board Secretary; Dr. Michelle Ludwig, Director of Pupil Services
A Directors’ Study meeting of the Board of School Directors of the Spring Grove Area School District was held
on Monday, May 8, 2023, following adjournment of the voting meeting. Rachel Rohrbaugh, Board President,
called the meeting to order at 7:06 PM, noting the same eight board members in attendance from the earlier voting
meeting.
PUBLIC COMMENT
There was no public comment.
PROGRAM COMMITTEE REPORTS:
CURRICULUM
Dr. Guadagnino presented a memorandum outlining new/revised curriculum proposed for 2023-2024 that had
been posted on the district website for review since April 10th. Teaching staff, department chairs, and
administrators were present to answer any questions from the Board. Guadagnino indicated that respective
textbooks and/or resources would be presented at a future meeting following the Board’s anticipated approval of
the curricula. The Board will consider approval at the May 22nd regular voting meeting.
In follow up to a request from Board members during the April 24th meeting, Dr. Ludwig presented further details
proposing the acquisition of a District Facility Dog. Ludwig identified differences among service, emotional
support, therapy, and facility dogs, outlined how a facility dog would enhance and support the work of
instructional and mental health staff, and highlighted the benefits that a facility dog would provide to students.
She defined responsibilities of designated handlers and co-handlers and presented a timeline for acquisition. A
motion to bring the April 24th tabled action to acquire a facility dog onto the table will be included with the May
22nd voting meeting agenda items. Additionally, the proposed new Facility Dog Policy, #719, that had failed
during the April 24th meeting due to a tie vote, will also be presented for reconsideration.
ATHLETICS AND MUSIC
Guadagnino presented a request for five students and two adult chaperones to participate in the National Student
Leadership Summit sponsored by PIAA in July 2023, at no cost to the District. He noted that the Board approved
a similar request in 2022. The Board will consider approval at the May 22nd voting meeting.
BUSINESS AND FINANCE COMMITTEE REPORTS:
BUDGET AND FINANCE
Mark Czapp presented updates to the 2023-2024 proposed General Fund Budget for review. Czapp requested
direction from the Board on the millage rate to include when preparing the PDE Budget Document for
consideration of approval at the May 22nd voting meeting. Following discussion, board members requested a 0%
increase be included in the proposed action, with a second option of a 1% increase included as an alternate
consideration.
Czapp introduced Melissa Freestone, Nutrition Services Manager, who presented updates to the 2023-2024
proposed Nutrition Services Budget for review. Freestone provided an overview of the proposed budget, noting
there has been a steady increase in the percentage of students qualifying for free and reduced meals. Following
review of the final proposed budget, Freestone recommended Board approval at the May 22nd regular voting
meeting, with an increase of $.15 to all meal prices beginning in 2023-2024.
Doug White confirmed his willingness to continue as School Board Treasurer for the 2023-2024 fiscal year. The
Board will consider approval of his reappointment at the May 22nd regular voting meeting.
Czapp presented a recommendation for the Board to authorize the Superintendent to complete applications and
enter into respective agreements for Federal, State, and Other Programs and Grants, as listed. The Board will
consider approval at the May 22nd regular voting meeting.
Czapp presented a recommendation for Kochenour, Earnest, Smyser, & Burg Certified Public Accountants to
continue as the District’s accounting firm and complete an audit for the year ending June 30, 2023, at a fee not
to exceed $12,950. The Board will consider approval at the May 22nd regular voting meeting.
Czapp presented a proposal for Stock and Leader to continue as District Solicitor for the 2023-2024 fiscal year
and designate Gareth Pahowka as lead counsel. The Board requested a history of hourly rates and total payments
over the past three years, to include a summary of the scope of work provided. Czapp will share the information
prior to the Board considering approval at the May 22nd regular voting meeting.
Czapp presented a recommendation to continue with ACNB and PayPal as school depositories for the ensuing
2023-2024 fiscal year. The Board will consider approval at the May 22nd regular voting meeting.
BUILDINGS AND GROUNDS
White invited Mark Czapp, Bill Stiles, and Scott Cousin (Crabtree, Rohrbaugh and Associates) to present an
update to the maintenance facility project. Board members were given a copy of the presentation that was shared
by Cousin at the May 5th Buildings and Grounds Committee. The next step in the process is to approve and
engage a civil engineer to move forward with the next steps of designing the facility project and provide a highlevel view of proposed access roads. Initial proposals were received by K & W and First Capital and presented
for consideration. Following additional information requested by the Board, Cousin will request updated
proposals from each firm, and the Board will consider approving a civil engineer for the project at the May 22nd
regular voting meeting.
MANAGEMENT COMMITTEE REPORTS:
POLICY
Baum presented an updated 2023-2025 MOU with Local Law Enforcement and an updated 2023-2025 School
Resource Officer Agreement for review. Bill Stiles, School Safety and Security Coordinator, stated that he and
Dr. Ludwig met with Chief Lash, Northern York County Regional Police Department, to review the documents.
No major changes were suggested to either document. The Board will consider approval of the agreements at the May 22nd regular voting meeting.
Ioannidis re-presented proposed new policy #831.1, Electronic Data Storage, for review and stated that during
the April 24th Regular Voting Meeting, a motion to approve a first reading failed as the result of a tie vote by
Board members. He explained the importance of the proposed policy, citing new legislation passed in May
requiring school districts to declare how they will ensure the security of internal data along with steps that will
be taken in the event of a data breach. To meet the requirement of having a plan in place, approval of a first
reading of the proposed policy will again be presented for approval at the May 22nd regular voting meeting.
PERSONNEL
Stein presented a confidential memo proposing personnel actions tentative for the May 22nd regular voting
meeting. Shearer requested that the executive session to discuss personnel items following adjournment of the
meeting include the proposed actions.
PLANNING:
Rohrbaugh asked if the Board wished to reconsider the request by Paradise Township officials to purchase land
at Paradise Elementary, following officials’ attendance and public comment at the April 24th meeting. Following
brief discussion, Board consensus was that the offer to rent or lease the property had already been presented to
the Township for the consideration. No further options are on the table.
ADJOURNMENT:
Trettel moved for adjournment at 8:48 PM. Baum seconded. The meeting adjourned by unanimous voice vote.
RESPECTFULLY SUBMITTED BY:
Mark A. Czapp,
Director of Business Operations/Board Secretary
May 8, 2023 Voting Meeting Minutes
SPRING GROVE AREA SCHOOL DISTRICT
BOARD OF SCHOOL DIRECTORS
VOTING MEETING
DATE/TIME of MEETING: May 8, 2023 @ 7:00 PM
LOCATION of MEETING: SPRING GROVE AREA MIDDLE SCHOOL
244 OLD HANOVER ROAD, SPRING GROVE, PA
ATTENDANCE:
The following School Directors were in attendance: Karen Baum, Ben Ramsay, Rachel Rohrbaugh, Rodney Shearer,
Doug Stein, Dave Trettel, Doug White, Nicole Wilson
The following School Directors were absent: Michael Ritz
The following Spring Grove Area School District Administrators were in attendance: Dr. George W. Ioannidis, Superintendent; Dr. Steve Guadagnino, Assistant Superintendent; Mr. Mark Czapp, Director of Business Operations/Board Secretary;Dr. Michelle Ludwig, Director of Pupil Services
A voting meeting of the Board of School Directors of the Spring Grove Area School District was held on Monday,
May 8, 2023. Rachel Rohrbaugh, Board President, called the meeting to order at 7:03 PM. The pledge of
allegiance was recited, followed by a moment of silence. Roll call confirmed eight board members in physical
attendance and Michael Ritz absent for personal reasons.
Rohrbaugh reported there was an executive session held this evening prior to the board meeting to discuss
negotiations. There will be an executive session following adjournment of tonight’s discussion meeting for
personnel.
PUBLIC COMMENT
There was no public comment.
CORRESPONDENCE
There was no correspondence.
ACTION VOTING ITEMS
PERSONNEL
1. Following a report of the Personnel Committee’s recommendations read by Doug Stein, Stein moved, and
Trettel seconded the following:
A. Approval of the following resignation:
1) Junior High Assistant Wrestling Coach – Seth Strausbaugh, effective April 27, 2023, for the purpose of retirement prior to the start of the next winter season.
B. Approval of the following requests for uncompensated leave:
1) Paradise Elementary Instructional Assistant – Special Education – Karen Sterner, effective approximately May 24, 2023, through approximately June 2, 2023.
2) Spring Grove Area Middle School PT Custodian – Stephen Brooks, effective approximately May 9, 2023, through approximately August 29, 2023.
C. Approval of the following appointments, provisionally hired pending receipt of updated clearances and completed Act 168 disclosure forms from previous employers:
1) Spring Grove Area High School Full Time Custodian (3rd shift) – Sheila Miller, effective May 9, 2023. Compensation established at $15.30 per hour, 8 hours per day, 260 days per year.
2) Spring Grove Area High School Full Time Custodian (2nd shift) – Anatolii Budnyk, effective May 9, 2023. Compensation established at $15.30 per hour, 8 hours per day, 260 days per year.
D. Approval of the following individual, pending receipt of updated clearances, for the 2022-2023 school year to work athletic events at the established event rate in the matrix:
1) Monica Eckenrode
E. Approval of the following classified substitutes for the 2022-2023 school year at the hourly rates indicated on the Support Staff Compensation (Minimum Salary) Matrix, provisionally hired pending receipt of updated clearances, and completed Act 168 disclosure forms from previous employers:
1) Joan Becker
2) Leslie Hernandez-Aguilar
3) Becky Saltzgiver
Vote by roll call resulted in the motion carrying by unanimous vote.
ADJOURNMENT:
Trettel moved for adjournment at 7:06 PM. Ramsay seconded. The meeting adjourned by unanimous voice vote.
RESPECTFULLY SUBMITTED BY:
Mark A. Czapp,
Director of Business Operations/Board Secretary
May 5, 2023 Building and Grounds Committee Meeting
SPRING GROVE AREA SCHOOL DISTRICT
BOARD OF SCHOOL DIRECTORS
BUILDINGS AND GROUNDS COMMITTEE MEETING
DATE/TIME of MEETING: May 5, 2023
LOCATION of MEETING: Spring Grove Area Educational Services Center
100 East College Avenue, Spring Grove, PA 17362
ATTENDANCE:
The following School Directors were in attendance: Karen Baum, Rachel Rohrbaugh, Rodney Shearer, Doug Stein, Doug White
The following Spring Grove Area School District personnel were in attendance: Dr. George W. Ioannidis, Superintendent; Dr. Steve Guadagnino, Assistant Superintendent; Mr. Mark Czapp, Director of Business Operations/Board Secretary; Mr. Bill Stiles, Buildings & Grounds Manager; Mrs. Suzanne Sterner, Board Recording Secretary
A Buildings and Grounds Committee meeting of the Spring Grove Area School District was held on Monday, May
5, 2023. Doug White called the meeting to order at 4:00 PM.
Purpose of Meeting
White stated that the committee was meeting this day to discuss the status of the maintenance facility project.
Bill Stiles introduced Scott Cousin with Crabtree, Rohrbaugh and Associates (CRA) and confirmed that the
presentation would include consideration of the facility’s accessibility, functionality, budgetary costs, and
selection of a civil engineering firm.
Stiles explained that according to the district’s operational needs, the facility will require access to all campus
buildings, be equipped to serve as an emergency Incident Command Center and provide adequate space for
tractor-trailer access and parking. He provided estimated square footage needed to include bays and storage
space for maintenance vehicles, mowers/ UTVs, a loading dock for deliveries, a ventilation system, work and
office space, and general storage for dry items, refrigerated consumables, and frozen goods.
Scott Cousin presented a preliminary schematic floor plan, based upon a pre-engineered building that meets the
needs reported by Stiles. Committee members questioned if there is opportunity to take advantage during the
construction and design phase to include storage room for items currently stored under the stadium; White
suggested a possible lean-to. Cousin will add to the request for a projected estimate.
Committee members questioned if the refrigerator and walk-in freezer units can remain where they are currently
located since the district will be keeping that space at the Windy Hill building. Ioannidis stated that refrigeration
and freezer units were not part of the original plan for use of that space; it is intended for ESC offices.
Cousin reported preliminary estimates between $1.7 - $2 million for building cost, with a total projected figure
of $2,407,323 to $2,888,788, with more refined estimated costs to be determined later.
CRA solicited proposals from civil engineers, indicating the quotes include costs for design, permitting, bidding
and construction oversight of the maintenance facility, preliminary analysis of five potential site locations, with
potential to include high school roadways. Of five engineering firms that responded, three declined to submit a
proposal due to scheduling constraints. First Capital Engineering responded proposing a lump sum fee of
$96,750. Czapp stated that the district has worked with First Capital on the high school project. K & W
responded proposing a lump sum fee of $139,525. CRA requested qualifications based upon similar projects
from the two firms, with both meeting the criteria for the project.
Cousin stated that the selected firm will do a high-level concept drawing, evaluation, and cost analysis, offering
pros and cons of each site for the facility. Board attendees suggested removing proposed site #1 from the options,
stating the district should not consider removing an athletic field. Attendees also suggested removing site #4
from the proposed locations to reserve space for a future educational building, if needed. Cousin will reach out
to the two engineering firms and request they reconsider their overall costs and resubmit a proposal for sites #2,
#3, and #5.
Committee members questioned if removing the initial analysis of the roads would further reduce costs. Czapp
suggested that timing is key, with two of the three proposed sites located adjacent to a proposed Krise road. Krise
is expecting to have a large amount of fill during the initial excavation phase of their project, which could be
used with the proposed access road at the high school. This would be more cost effective to the district to
use/move the dirt at the same time.
Future Planning / Next Steps
Cousin will request a revised proposal from First Capital and K & W engineering firms for the three sites. If
received before the May 8th Directors’ Study Forum meeting, information will be shared out at the meeting. The
Board could request that a recommendation for approval of a firm be included with May 22nd Regular Voting
Meeting action items.
Minutes from this committee meeting will be shared out at the May 8th meeting. Board members also requested
a spreadsheet listing pros and cons for each of the three agreed-upon proposed sites for the maintenance facility.
White adjourned the committee meeting at 5:25 PM
RESPECTFULLY SUBMITTED BY:
Suzanne E. Sterner
Board Recording Secretary
April 24, 2023 Regular Voting Meeting Minutes
SPRING GROVE AREA SCHOOL DISTRICT
BOARD OF SCHOOL DIRECTORS
REGULAR VOTING MEETING
DATE/TIME of MEETING: April 24, 2023 @ 7:00 PM
LOCATION of MEETING: SPRING GROVE ELEMENTARY
1450 ROTH’S CHURCH ROAD, SPRING GROVE, PA
ATTENDANCE:
The following School Directors were in attendance: Karen Baum, Ben Ramsay, Michael Ritz, Rachel Rohrbaugh, Rodney Shearer, Doug Stein, Dave Trettel, Doug White
The following School Directors were absent: Nicole Wilson
The following Spring Grove Area School District Administrators were in attendance: Dr. George W. Ioannidis, Superintendent; Dr. Steve Guadagnino, Assistant Superintendent; Mr. Mark Czapp, Director of Business Operations/Board Secretary;Dr. Michelle Ludwig, Director of Pupil Services
A regular voting meeting of the Board of School Directors of the Spring Grove Area School District was held on
Monday, April 24, 2023, in the cafeteria of Spring Grove Elementary School, 1450 Roth’s Church Road, Spring
Grove. Rachel Rohrbaugh, Board President, called the meeting to order at 7:00 PM. The Pledge of Allegiance
was recited, and a moment of silence was observed. Roll call reflected eight board members in physical
attendance, with Nicole Wilson absent for personal reasons.
Rohrbaugh reported one executive session was held since the last sunshine meeting on April 10, 2023, to discuss
negotiations and personnel matters.
PUBLIC COMMENT
Clark Craumer, Paradise Township Supervisor, shared that the Township acquired a 16-acre lot from the district
in 2006, where Farmer’s Field is currently located. The Township is now interested in purchasing the property
to increase the park and has agreed to install a roadway from Church Road to Paradise Elementary at no cost to
the district. He asked for the school board to reconsider selling 16 acres to the Township so they can increase
the park amenities, which would also provide another field for use by students throughout the school district.
Jerry Mascaro, Jackson Township and Music Boosters President provided an update regarding districtwide
musical events, concerts, and individual student musician accomplishments. Select Modern Band will perform
at the Spring Grove Area Scholarship Fund banquet on Tuesday, May 16.
BOARD AND ADMINISTRATION RESPONSE
There was no response.
SUPERINTENDENT’S REPORT
Dr. Ioannidis thanked staff at Spring Grove Elementary (SGE) for hosting the meeting. He recognized Delaney Hopkins, Jase Irwin, Emma Lewis, Kieri Prince, Hillary Snyder, Chloe Wolfe, Jayden Fields, and Claire Shives, members of SGE Student Council for facilitating a walkthrough of the building with board members and thanked Ruth Senft for preparing refreshments.
Congratulations to District Rocketry Teams for making history. NASA SLI Team students hit their goal of winning the altitude award with a perfect mark of 4500 feet exactly, a feat never accomplished in the history of NASA Student Launch. Applause to Alex Fiorillo, Dylan Tichy, Eli Hoke, Wyatt Amspacher, Max Trimmer, Sage Dewall, and Haley Hake, Launch students, and Chad Zepp and Paul Cole of Resuwrecktion Auto Body for donating their services to paint both NASA SLI rockets in March and April 2023.
Ioannidis recognized Oliver Wirfel, Benntenn McCoy, Chase Guiton, Ryan Austin, and Zeke Trimmer, members of Battle of the Rockets Team, who competed in two events. They brought home second place in the target altitude event and fourth place in the deployable payload event. Rocketry students and Mr. Hastings, adviser, will attend a future meeting to be recognized in person.
Congratulations to Caliana Schmidt, Edward Melnik, Jake Nagpal, Sarah Heikes, Charles Stewart, and Liam McMaster, members of the Rockets Esports Team, who attended and competed in the 2023 PA Cup in April. Overwatch 2 team finished in second place; Rocket League finished in third. Thank you to Josh Graham, advisor of the program.
Congratulations to Sarah Czapp and Samantha Hale who participated in and recently graduated from the Student Banker Apprenticeship Program at Peoples Bank. They did an outstanding job presenting their created financial product, an App called Finance Fitness, to executives, educators, and parents.
Congratulations to student leaders Quinn Baker and Kathryn Wyrick on completing the 2023 Future Leaders of York (FLY) Class, facilitated by Leadership York, and to Tara Hausner for being recognized and receiving the Tony Dobrosky Future Leaders Scholarship Award and the Hoke 4H Leadership Award.
Ioannidis recognized Jeff Laux, District Athletics Coordinator, for his recent appointment to the Executive Council for the PA State Athletic Directors Association.
Three YAA students were recognized for completing the requirements for graduation. Congratulations to Wilmer Cruz, Hunter Teague, and Dakota Bryant.
STUDENT REPRESENTATIVE’S REPORT
Trenton Leggett shared a report of happenings throughout the district at respective building levels, including such events as special education inclusion week, the Diversity Festival, a Rolling Tractor Show at the elementary school, and Prom that was held at the Wyndham Hotel on April 22.
CORRESPONDENCE
There was no correspondence.
LEGISLATIVE UPDATE
Ioannidis reported that, according to a recent report, the number of initial in-state teacher certificates in 2021- 2022 of 4,220 was down significantly from 2012-2013, when there were more than 16,000. Action is still pending regarding funding for districts. Senator Ryan Aument recently assembled a commission to conduct a study on Pennsylvania’s education system, for which Ioannidis has volunteered.
YORK COUNTY SCHOOL OF TECHNOLOGY
Trettel reported that he cannot attend the meeting scheduled for April 27 and invited any board member interested to reach out to him.
YORK ADAMS ACADEMY
Baum reported 12 Spring Grove students currently enrolled. 9 students have met requirements for graduation thus far this year.
APPROVAL OF MINUTES
1. Trettel moved to approve the minutes from the respective Voting / Directors’ Study Forum Meetings held on April 10, 2023. Baum seconded the motion, unanimously approved by voice vote.
TREASURER’S REPORTS
2. White presented the Treasurer’s Report for month ending March 31, 2023. White moved to approve the report as presented. Baum seconded the motion, approved by unanimous vote.
BUSINESS/FINANCE REPORTS
BUDGET AND FINANCE
3. Following a report of the Budget and Finance Committee’s recommendations read by Doug White, White moved, and Baum seconded the following:
A. Approval of the Accounts Payable lists as presented.
Vote by roll call resulted in the motion carrying by unanimous vote.
BUILDINGS AND GROUNDS
Informational Item
The following mandated fire drills for the month were entered into the minutes:
SCHOOL BUILDING DATE OF DRILL MINUTES SECONDS
New Salem Elementary 03/21/2023 1 39
Paradise Elementary 03/22/2023 1 30
Spring Grove Elementary 03/21/2023 1 36
Spring Grove Area Intermediate School 03/16/2023 2 05
Spring Grove Area Middle School 03/07/2023 1 48
Spring Grove Area High School 03/22/2023 5 28
TRANSPORTATION
4. Following a report of the Transportation Committee’s recommendations read by Michael Ritz, Ritz moved, and Trettel seconded the following:
A. Approval of the following additional contracted Krise Bus Company Bus/Van Driver for the 2022-2023 school year in accordance with the pupil transportation state regulations as set forth in 22 Pa Code 23.4:
1) Florence Beall
2) Amanda Bridger
3) John Fisher
4) Linda Ford
5) Kristina Harner
6) Barry Jewitt
7) Connie Karsteter
8) Shane Lawson, Sr.
9) Sarah Linton
10) Liza Mummert
11) Duane Noel
12) Allison Reynolds
13) Stephanie Shank
14) Christopher Spangler
Vote by roll call resulted in the motion carrying by unanimous vote.
MANAGEMENT REPORTS
POLICY
5. Following a report of the Policy Committee’s recommendations read by Karen Baum, Baum moved, and Trettel seconded the following:
A. Approval of a first reading for the following policies:
1) Policy 719: Facility Dogs (new policy)
2) Policy 831.1: Electronic Data Storage (new policy)
B. Approval of a second reading for the following policy:
1) Policy 827: Conflict of Interest
C. Acceptance of the following donations/grants in accordance with Board Policy No. 702, Gifts, Grants and Donations:
1) A monetary grant in the amount of $6,000 from the J. William Warehime Foundation to support the Music Department organizing the 50th Anniversary of String Orchestra Program.
2) A monetary donation in the amount of $1,000 from Teresa Weaver to support the District’s Backpack Program.
3) A monetary donation in the amount of $100 from Judy Evans, in memory of Larry W. Sterner (1975 graduate of Spring Grove Area School District), to support the Future Farmers Association Program.
4) Donation of a $250 gift card from Weis Markets to benefit the 2023 Diversity Festival.
Shearer requested a separate vote on item A.
Vote by roll call on item A resulted in the motion failing, with Trettel, Ramsay, Baum, and Rohrbaugh voting in favor. Ritz, White, Shearer and Stein voted against.
Vote by roll call on items B and C resulted in the motion carrying by unanimous vote.
PERSONNEL
6. Following a report of the Personnel Committee’s recommendations read by Karen Baum, Baum moved, and Ramsay seconded the following:
A. Approval of the following resignations:
1) Spring Grove Area Intermediate School PT Nutrition Support – Tammy Druck, effective April 12, 2023, for personal reasons and to transition to a substitute for the 2023-2024 school year.
B. Approval of the following appointments, provisionally hired pending receipt of updated clearances and completed Act 168 disclosure forms from previous employers:
1) Spring Grove Area School District Elementary Instructor – Amanda Brady, effective at the beginning of the 2023-2024 school year. Compensation established at Step 12 on the Master’s + 60 Schedule.
2) Spring Grove Area School District Elementary Instructor – Kendra Klunk, effective at the beginning of the 2023-2024 school year, pending verification of Pennsylvania certification. Compensation established at Step 1 on the Bachelor’s Schedule.
3) Spring Grove Area High School Instructional Assistant Special Education (Personal Care) – Denise Kline, effective April 26, 2023. Compensation established at $15.75 per hour for 7 hours per day, 180 days per year.
C. Approval of the following new coach for the 2023-2024 Fall Season, with compensation determined by the Coaches’ Salary Matrix, and authorizing discretion to reduce, pro-rate, or cancel any appropriated payment because of a delayed, shortened, or canceled season:
Job Title: Golf-Varsity Head Coach; Coach Name: Shane Grim; Stipend $ 3,000.00
D. Approval of the following individuals pending receipt of clearances and completed Act 168 disclosure forms from previous employers, effective approximately April 25, 2023, through August 31, 2023, and as needed throughout the 2023-2024 school year, to assist with summer painting and maintenance, with compensation established at $12.80 per hour:
1) Michael Hershey
2) Landen Leppo
3) Lane Smith
E. Approval of the following individuals pending receipt of clearances and completed Act 168 disclosure forms from previous employers, effective approximately April 25, 2023, through August 31, 2023, and as needed throughout the 2023-2024 school year, to assist with summer technology projects, with compensation established at $12.80 per hour:
1) Hans Livelsberger
2) Alexander Larios Sanchez
3) Zachary Smith
F. Approval of the following individuals holding a bachelor’s degree and completing the District’s Guest
Teacher orientation program to substitute teach in all subject areas during the 2022-2023 school year at
a rate of $110.00 per day and $125.00 per day beginning on the 21st day cumulative, provisionally hired
pending receipt of updated clearances and completed Act 168 disclosure forms from previous employers:
1) Melissa Ural
G. Approval of the following Act 86 substitutes for a maximum of 20 days for the 2022-2023 school year at a rate of $110.00 per day, provisionally hired pending receipt of updated clearances and completed Act 168 disclosure forms from previous employers:
1) Alana Gillen
2) Haley Wagman
H. Approval of the following classified substitutes for the 2022-2023 school year at the hourly rates indicated on the Support Staff Compensation (Minimum Salary) Matrix, provisionally hired pending receipt of updated clearances, and completed Act 168 disclosure forms from previous employers:
1) Addyson Wagman
2) Haley Wagman
Vote by roll call on all items resulted in the motion carrying by unanimous vote.
Ioannidis welcomed and introduced newest Rocket team members, Amanda Brady and Kendra Klunk.
PERSONNEL REPORT / FOR INFORMATION ONLY
A. FAMILY MEDICAL LEAVE ACT (FMLA) LEAVES GRANTED:
EMPLOYEE NAME |
BUILDING |
DEPARTMENT |
DATE LEAVE BEGINS |
DATE LEAVE ENDS |
---|---|---|---|---|
Christopher Mundy |
High School |
School Counseling |
02/09/2023 |
Intermittent |
PROGRAM REPORTS
CURRICULUM
7. Following a report of the Curriculum Committee’s recommendations read by David Trettel, Trettel moved, and Ramsay seconded the following:
A. Approval to acquire a full time Certified Facility Dog through United Disabilities Services Service Dogs for use by staff with students in the school setting to support mental wellness and promote a positive school climate, in accordance with newly developed Board Policy and Administrative Guidelines.
B. Approval for Sherry Stambaugh, Middle School Gifted Teacher, and Katherine Tackett, Music Teacher, one school nurse, and four volunteers to accompany approximately thirteen middle school students to Michigan State University, Lansing, MI, for the 2023 Odyssey of the Mind World Finals Competition, May 24-28, 2023.
C. Approval to participate in the Special Olympics Unified Bocce Program within York County and offer a competitive bocce team.
Board members presented further questions concerning item A. Trettel stated that he has learned a facility dog can be beneficial to the needs of students in the district and would be used in very controlled situations, rather than being a distraction.
Ramsay moved to table item A. Baum seconded, with a request to have a presentation at the next meeting to provide more information.
Motion to table item A passed by unanimous vote.
Vote by roll call on items B and C resulted in the motion carrying by unanimous vote.
ADJOURNMENT:
Trettel moved for adjournment at 7:50 PM. Ritz seconded. Meeting adjourned by unanimous voice vote.
RESPECTFULLY SUBMITTED BY:
Mark A. Czapp,
Director of Business Operations/Board Secretary
April 10, 2023 Directors Study Forum Minutes
SPRING GROVE AREA SCHOOL DISTRICT
BOARD OF SCHOOL DIRECTORS
DIRECTORS’ STUDY FORUM MEETING
DATE/TIME of MEETING: April 10, 2023 @ 7:07 PM
LOCATION of MEETING: SPRING GROVE AREA MIDDLE SCHOOL
244 OLD HANOVER ROAD, SPRING GROVE, PA
ATTENDANCE:
The following School Directors were in attendance: Karen Baum, Ben Ramsay, Michael Ritz, Rachel Rohrbaugh, Rodney Shearer, Doug Stein (via Zoom), Dave Trettel, Doug White, Nicole Wilson
The following School Directors were absent:
The following Spring Grove Area School District Administrators were in attendance: Dr. George W. Ioannidis, Superintendent; Dr. Steve Guadagnino, Assistant Superintendent; Mr. Mark Czapp, Director of Business Operations/Board Secretary; Dr. Michelle Ludwig, Director of Pupil Services
A Directors’ Study meeting of the Board of School Directors of the Spring Grove Area School District was held on Monday, April 10, 2023, following adjournment of the voting meeting. Rachel Rohrbaugh, Board President, called the meeting to order at 7:07 PM, noting the same board members in attendance from the earlier voting
meeting.
PUBLIC COMMENT
There was no public comment.
BUSINESS AND FINANCE COMMITTEE REPORTS:
BUDGET AND FINANCE
Mark Czapp thanked Board members for their support of Mrs. Freestone’s attendance at the Produce Safety University this week. On her behalf, Czapp presented a memorandum related to the proposed 2023-2024 Nutrition Services Fund Budget and noted a projected increase of $.15 per meal. A full presentation is scheduled for the May 8th meeting. Dr. Ludwig commented on a recent $100 monthly food allowance reduction to low income households and noted that York County Food Bank representatives have seen an increase in participation. Czapp explained the Free/Reduced Meal application process to demonstrate how the district provides help to students and families who need it most.
BUILDINGS AND GROUNDS
Czapp stated that the Spring Grove Borough has moved forward with subdivision of the property located on East College Avenue. Per the ratified sales agreement in 2021, the Borough and District are in the final phase of the process for settlement of the property within 60 days.
Czapp received an update from Jefferson Borough indicating that the 22 York Street property was sold to a third party at sheriff’s sale, and no further action is needed by the Board; the waiver of taxes is unnecessary.
Bill Stiles, District Facilities Manager, reported that CRA is finalizing the RFP for engineering services on current capital projects. He reported a list of firms that will be sent the RFP and requested any additional requests be shared with him no later than April 11; the draft RFP will be shared with the Board for review prior to sending out to the firms.
Stiles reported next steps include refining the facility headquarters floor plan based on our operational requirements. The Board Buildings and Grounds Committee will meet with CRA in early May. RFP submittals will be reviewed no later than May 4, with a presentation and recommendation to the Board tentative with May 8th DSF items. Ioannidis clarified that the civil engineer work is for the maintenance facility and two proposed access roads on the main campus, and potentially including the Krise Transportation road. Location of the facility, roads, and other details are decided after the engineer is engaged.
PROGRAM COMMITTEE REPORTS:
CURRICULUM
Dr. Guadagnino presented a memorandum outlining new/revised curriculum proposed for 2023-2024. All proposed curricula are posted on the district website and available for review by board members during the month of April. At the May 8th DSF, individuals will be present to offer a brief overview, with a recommendation for approval tentative with May 24th Regular Voting Meeting items.
Dr. Ludwig presented a proposal to acquire a Certified Facility Dog from United Disabilities Services Service Dogs. The canine would be a working dog in the school environment, with Christine Kenney designated as the handler. The process began more than a year ago through grant monies, and Spring Grove is now at the top of the list to receive the dog. Ludwig explained that many school districts have a facility dog. There were stated concerns regarding the animal posing a distraction; some board members questioned how the dog fulfills the district’s obligation to educate students. Ioannidis stated that many students struggle with getting access to mental health services; the dog will be another tool in addressing the needs of the “whole child.” The Board will consider approval at the April 24th voting meeting.
Ryan Lehman, Special Education Supervisor, presented a request to implement a Special Olympics Unified Bocce Ball Team. More than 20 students have participated in the Unified Track Program that was Board approved in 2019-2020. The programs provide an opportunity for students to participate and to create friendships that might not otherwise have a chance to exist. The Board will consider approval at the April 24th voting meeting.
Guadagnino presented a proposed agreement with Commonwealth University for Dual Enrollment. Specific language in the document is being reviewed by Commonwealth, and when agreed upon, will be presented for consideration of approval by the School Board.
Guadagnino reported that students who recently participated in the Odyssey of the Minds state competition did well. Two teams have qualified for World Finals, and a Major Trip Proposal for qualifying students to travel to Michigan was presented for review. The Board will consider approval at the April 24th voting meeting.
ATHLETICS AND MUSIC
Jeff Laux, Student Athletic Coordinator, shared a winter sports summary, providing season highlights and noting
individual student accomplishments.
MANAGEMENT COMMITTEE REPORTS:
POLICY
Baum presented two new Board Policies for review and discussion: proposed Policy #719 related to Facility
Dogs, and proposed Policy #831.1 related to Electronic Data Storage. The Board will consider approval of a first
reading at the April 24th voting meeting.
PERSONNEL
Baum presented a confidential memo including proposed actions tentative for the May 8th Directors’ Study Forum.
PLANNING:
No items were presented for consideration.
Rohrbaugh called for an executive session to discuss personnel matters following adjournment.
ADJOURNMENT:
Ramsay moved for adjournment at 8:31 PM. Ritz seconded. The meeting adjourned by unanimous voice vote.
RESPECTFULLY SUBMITTED BY:
Mark A. Czapp,
Director of Business Operations/Board Secretary
April 10, 2023 Voting Meeting Minutes
SPRING GROVE AREA SCHOOL DISTRICT
BOARD OF SCHOOL DIRECTORS
VOTING MEETING
DATE/TIME of MEETING: April 10, 2023 @ 7:00 PM
LOCATION of MEETING: SPRING GROVE AREA MIDDLE SCHOOL
244 OLD HANOVER ROAD, SPRING GROVE, PA
ATTENDANCE:
The following School Directors were in attendance: Karen Baum, Ben Ramsay, Michael Ritz, Rachel Rohrbaugh, Rodney Shearer, Doug Stein (via Zoom), Dave Trettel, Doug White, Nicole Wilson
The following School Directors were absent:
The following Spring Grove Area School District Administrators were in attendance: Dr. George W. Ioannidis, Superintendent; Dr. Steve Guadagnino, Assistant Superintendent; Mr. Mark Czapp, Director of Business Operations/Board Secretary; Dr. Michelle Ludwig, Director of Pupil Services
A voting meeting of the Board of School Directors of the Spring Grove Area School District was held on Monday, April 10, 2023. Rachel Rohrbaugh, Board President, called the meeting to order at 7:00 PM. The pledge of allegiance was recited, followed by a moment of silence. Roll call confirmed eight board members in physical attendance and Doug Stein in virtual attendance.
Rohrbaugh reported an executive session was held this evening at 6:00 PM for negotiations, and the Board will meet in executive session following adjournment of tonight’s discussion meeting for personnel.
PUBLIC COMMENT
CORRESPONDENCE
There was no correspondence.
APPROVAL OF MINUTES
1. Trettel moved and Ritz seconded approval of the following minutes: Regular Voting Meeting February 27,
2023; respective Voting / Directors’ Study Forum Meetings held on March 13, 2023; Regular Voting Meeting
March 27, 2023. The motion was unanimously approved by voice vote.
ACTION VOTING ITEMS
BUDGET AND FINANCE
2. Following a report of the Budget and Finance Committee’s recommendations read by Doug White, White
moved, and Baum seconded the following:
A. Approval of the Proposed General Fund Budget for the 2023-2024 fiscal year, with total revenues of $79,782,668, total expenditures of $83,382,996, with the shortfall of $3,600,328 to be funded from the General Fund Unreserved Fund Balance and setting the real estate tax millage rate at 25.4172 mills, an increase of 1.325 mills from the millage rate of 24.0922; in addition, earned income tax of ½% and real estate transfer tax of ½% under Act 511.
B. Approval of the attached Final Budget Notice, which gives notification to the public that the 2023- 2024 Proposed Final Budget for the General Fund is available for public inspection and states intention to present for adoption as a Final Budget at the May 22, 2023, school board meeting, allowing for amendments before final adoption.
C. Approval of the attached Resolution Authorizing 2023-2024 Proposed Final Budget Display and Advertising, supporting the Final Budget Notice.
Vote by roll call resulted in the motion carrying by unanimous vote.
PERSONNEL
3. Following a report of the Personnel Committee’s recommendations read by Karen Baum, Baum moved, and Ritz seconded the following:
A. Approval of the following resignations:
1) 9th Grade Assistant Football Coach – Jackson LeVault, effective March 22, 2023, for personal reasons.
B. Approval of the following coaches for the 2022-2023 Spring Season, with compensation determined by the Coaches’ Salary Matrix, and authorizing discretion to reduce, pro-rate, or cancel any appropriated payment because of a delayed, shortened, or canceled seasons due to COVID-19:
Job Title Coach Name Stipend
Track and Field - Junior High Assistant Coach Dalton Rohrbaugh $2,493.00
Track and Field - Varsity Assistant Coach Daniel Stoner $1,454.50
C. Approval of the following individuals, pending receipt of updated clearances, for the 2022-2023 school year to work school events needing AV support / livestream support, at the established rate per event of either $40, $60, $110, or $150 depending on the event:
1) Justin Eaton
2) Zachary Ruth
D. Approval of the following classified substitute for the 2022-2023 school year at the hourly rates indicated on the Support Staff Compensation (Minimum Salary) Matrix, provisionally hired pending receipt of updated clearances, and completed Act 168 disclosure forms from previous employers:
1) Holly Tice
Vote by roll call resulted in the motion carrying by unanimous vote.
PERSONNEL REPORT / FOR INFORMATION ONLY
FAMILY MEDICAL LEAVE ACT (FMLA) LEAVES GRANTED:
EMPLOYEE NAME |
BUILDING |
DEPARTMENT |
DATE LEAVE BEGINS (approximately) |
DATE LEAVE ENDS (approximately) |
---|---|---|---|---|
Nancy Neff |
SGE |
Special Education |
03/28/2023 |
04/11/2023 |
Mary Kauffman |
New Salem / Paradise |
Elementary (Library) |
08/18/2023 |
11/13/2023 |
4. Following a report of the Curriculum Committee’s recommendations read by Nicole Wilson, Wilson moved, and Ritz seconded the following:
A. Approval for Jason Baker, High School Social Studies Teacher, and Justice White, Paradise Elementary Learning Support Teacher, to accompany approximately twelve high school students to Princeton University, NJ, for the 2023 Moot Court Competition, April 28-29, 2023.
B. Approval for Melissa Freestone to attend the USDA Produce Safety University in Alexandria, VA, April 10-14, 2023, by invitation, with all major expenses associated with lodging, travel, and parking, covered by the program.
Vote by roll call resulted in the motion carrying by unanimous vote.
ADJOURNMENT:
Wilson moved for adjournment at 7:07 PM. Ritz seconded. The meeting adjourned by unanimous voice vote.
RESPECTFULLY SUBMITTED BY:
Mark A. Czapp,
Director of Business Operations/Board Secretary
March 27, 2023 Regular Voting Meeting Minutes
SPRING GROVE AREA SCHOOL DISTRICT
BOARD OF SCHOOL DIRECTORS
REGULAR VOTING MEETING
DATE/TIME of MEETING: March 27, 2023 @ 7:00 PM
LOCATION of MEETING: MIDDLE SCHOOL LGI ROOM #242
244 OLD HANOVER ROAD, SPRING GROVE, PA
ATTENDANCE:
The following School Directors were in attendance: Karen Baum, Ben Ramsay, Michael Ritz, Rodney Shearer, Doug Stein,
Dave Trettel, Doug White, Nicole Wilson
The following School Directors were absent: Rachel Rohrbaugh
The following Spring Grove Area School District Administrators were in attendance: Dr. George W. Ioannidis, Superintendent; Dr. Steve Guadagnino, Assistant Superintendent; Mr. Mark Czapp, Director of Business Operations/Board Secretary; Dr. Michelle Ludwig, Director of Pupil Services
A regular voting meeting of the Board of School Directors of the Spring Grove Area School District was held on Monday, March 27, 2023. David Trettel, Board Vice President, called the meeting to order at 7:00 PM. The Pledge of Allegiance was recited, and a moment of silence was observed. Roll call reflected eight board members in physical attendance, with Rachel Rohrbaugh absent for personal reasons.
Trettel reported that an executive session was held on March 13, 2023, to discuss personnel, real estate, and
confidential student matters.
PUBLIC COMMENT
Jerry Mascaro, Music Boosters President, provided an update regarding districtwide musical events and individual student musician accomplishments. A first-ever Choir Day included students from grades 5-12, and another first was Orchestra Day that included string students in grades 3-12. Orion and Select Strings Middle School students performed at the PA State Capitol in Harrisburg on March 6th as part of National Music in Our Schools Month; they also had the opportunity to visit with Representative Seth Grove.
SUPERINTENDENT’S REPORT
Dr. Ioannidis shared a handout with follow up information from the May 2022 community/staff/student survey, highlighting ongoing actions and initiatives that promote a positive school and district climate. The week of April 11th is the target timeframe for this year’s survey to the same recipients.
Congratulations to 2023 PIAA State Wrestling Medalist, Michael Hershey, who took 7th place at the State Wrestling Championships. Congratulations also to former graduate, Dalton Rohrbaugh, who placed 2nd at Nationals.
Congratulations to the Competition Cheer team who placed 1st in the War of the Roses competition in mid-March. Fifth grade Gifted Seminar students participated in a KNEX Competition where they had an amazing experience with other districts learning the engineering design model. Out of 29 participating teams, Mrs. Mowery’s group earned 2nd place. Congratulations to her and her team.
Congratulations to Middle and Intermediate School Odyssey of the Mind Teams who did an outstanding job at the East Central PA Regional Tournament. Two Middle School Teams took first place; one Middle School Team and one Intermediate School Team took second place; and one Middle School Team came in third place. The teams will now advance to the State Competition.
Congratulations to the 18 students who brought home first and second place awards during the recent Mock Trial Competition. Team Three was District Champion; Team One was runner-up. The District received accolades from Stock and Leader and other attorneys regarding Spring Grove students’ professionalism and performances.
Students in our New Salem, Paradise and Spring Grove Elementary buildings raised more than $30,000 for the American Heart Association through a Kids Heart Challenge. We are proud of our students and families for their commitment to fighting heart disease.
Thank you to Mrs. Baum for her attendance during the Grand Opening Ceremony of our Rocket Wellness Center, as well as Association President, Mr. Henning. We are hearing good things from those who have visited.
Information and fundraising totals from this year’s MiniTHON will be shared at a future meeting. Thank you to all who participated and contributed to make the event another success.
STUDENT REPRESENTATIVE’S REPORT
There was no student representative report.
CORRESPONDENCE
Trettel reported that the Board received an anonymous letter and an invitation from Stock and Leader to the annual School Law dinner, for any board members interested.
LEGISLATIVE UPDATE
There was no update.
YORK COUNTY SCHOOL OF TECHNOLOGY
Trettel reported that the 23-24 YCST proposed budget was approved unanimously by all participating school districts. The YCST Adult Education Program has improved greatly over the past several years and is now considered the #1 Program in the State.
YORK ADAMS ACADEMY
Baum noted there are 13 students enrolled. A meeting is scheduled for Tuesday evening.
SPECIAL COMMITTEE REPORTS / LIU #12 BUILDING AUTHORITY
Bill Stiles reported that during the March 22nd quarterly meeting, the proposed budget was reviewed; projected costs will remain the same as previous years. A grant application was approved and accepted, with outside lighting and cameras being a priority.
APPROVAL OF MINUTES
1. Ramsay moved to table the minutes from the Regular Voting Meeting on February 27, 2023, and respective
Voting / Directors’ Study Forum Meetings held on March 13, 2023. Ritz seconded the motion, unanimously
approved by voice vote.
TREASURER’S REPORTS
2. White presented the Treasurer’s Report for month ending February 28, 2023. White moved to approve the report as presented. Ramsay seconded the motion, approved by unanimous vote.
BUSINESS/FINANCE REPORTS
BUDGET AND FINANCE
3. Following a report of the Budget and Finance Committee’s recommendations read by Doug White, White moved, and Ramsay seconded the following:
A. Approval of the Accounts Payable lists as presented.
B. Approval to waive school real estate delinquent taxes due in the amount of $15,532.06, for a unoccupied property located at 22 York Street in Jefferson Borough, parcel ID number 73-0000-02-0057.00-00000 scheduled for sheriff sale, until such time as the Borough may obtain the property and have the deed properly transferred and deeded to Jefferson Borough.
C. Approval to enter into a five-year lease agreement with Doceo for print and copy hardware and managed print and copy services according to the attached contract, beginning July 1, 2023, at a cost not to exceed $3,600.00 month.
Vote by roll call resulted in the motion carrying by unanimous vote.
BUILDINGS AND GROUNDS
4. A report of the Budget and Finance Committee’s recommendations was presented by Doug White.
A. Approval to contract with WatchFire for purchase and installation of a fully digital 16’ x 35’ 10 mm full digital scoreboard, with video software, play clocks, and High School Live Stream camera capability (among other features), at the High School Papermakers Stadium for the purchase price of $308,202.00.
B. Approval to enter into contract with Crabtree, Rohrbaugh & Associates, Inc., for architectural services outlined in the attached agreement for continuation with designing and laying out options related to the proposed Maintenance Facility and secondary access roads at the High School and Spring Grove Elementary, at a fee not to exceed 5.75% of the total costs for each/all of the projects.
C. Approval of the attached Addendum to the Agreement of Sale of the former educational building located at 1472 Roth’s Church Road, Spring Grove, to the Young Men’s Christian Association (YMCA) of York and York County, to amend the buyer’s name to YMCA of the Roses and further define the property
and sale contingencies.
Prior to motioning for approval, White asked Dr. Ioannidis to provide clarification on item B. Ioannidis stated that Board approval engages the architect to initiate the process of design and planning of projects requested by the Board. Crabtree, Rohrbaugh & Associates (CRA) will assist in selecting the civil engineer, then meet with Mark Czapp and Bill Stiles to work out a high-level description of what services are to be provided by/at the building. The Board’s Buildings and Grounds Committee members will gather to review, come to a consensus of where project(s) will be located, then direct CRA to bring options for consideration to the entire Board. Ioannidis also noted that costs for proposed projects will not impact the
General Operating Budget. Ioannidis also stated that the civil engineer firm’s name included on page 4, item 4, of the proposed contract should be stricken. Although the high school and elementary school access roads are listed in the proposed action, the Board is not obligated to use CRA for those projects.
White made a motion to amend item B to state the following:
B. Approval to enter into contract with Crabtree, Rohrbaugh & Associates, Inc., for architectural services outlined in the attached agreement for continuation with designing and laying out options related to the proposed Maintenance Facility and, potentially, secondary access roads at the High School and Spring Grove Elementary, at a fee not to exceed 5.75% of the total costs for each/all of the projects.
Ramsay seconded the motion to amend the action. The amended language passed by unanimous voice vote. White moved, and Ramsay seconded a motion to approve items A, B (as amended), and C.
If the YMCA creates any damage to district fields during usage, Wilson questioned if there has been consideration for a provision in the agreement regarding payment for repairs. Ioannidis reported that the expectation is additional expenses beyond normal costs associated with usage are the responsibility of the user. Plans for parking are an ongoing concern for the Board. Ioannidis confirmed that YMCA is responsible for parking studies, and they will present any recommendations to the district regarding needed changes and/or improvements.
Shearer asked for a separate vote on item C.
Vote by roll on item C resulted in the motion carrying, with Ramsay, Wilson, White, Stein, Baum, Ritz, and
Trettel voting in favor. Shearer opposed.
Vote by roll call on items A and B resulted in the motion carrying by unanimous vote.
Informational Item
The following mandated fire drills for the month were entered into the minutes:
SCHOOL BUILDING DATE OF DRILL MINUTES SECONDS
SCHOOL BUILDING |
DATE OF DRILL |
MINUTES |
SECONDS |
---|---|---|---|
New Salem Elementary |
02/08/2023 |
1 |
53 |
Paradise Elementary |
02/23/2023 |
1 |
12 |
Spring Grove Elementary |
02/28/2023 |
2 |
22 |
Spring Grove Area Intermediate School |
02/23/2023 |
2 |
04 |
Spring Grove Area Middle School |
02/08/2023 |
2 |
23 |
Spring Grove Area High School |
02/08/2023 |
4 |
27 |
TRANSPORTATION
5. Following a report of the Transportation Committee’s recommendations read by Michael Ritz, Ritz moved, and Ramsay seconded the following:
A. Approval of the following additional contracted Krise Bus Company Bus/Van Driver for the 2022-2023 school year in accordance with the pupil transportation state regulations as set forth in 22 Pa Code 23.4:
1) Kelsey Ruhlman
2) Ronald Zinn
Vote by roll call resulted in the motion carrying by unanimous vote.
MANAGEMENT REPORTS
POLICY
6. Following a report of the Policy Committee’s recommendations read by Karen Baum, Baum moved, and
Ritz seconded the following:
A. Approval of a first reading for the following policy:
1) Revisions to Policy 827: Conflict of Interest
B. Approval of a second reading for the following policy:
2) Revisions to Policy 218: Student Discipline
C. Acceptance of the following donations/grants in accordance with Board Policy No. 702, Gifts, Grants and Donations:
1) A monetary grant in the amount of $950.00 from the York County Alliance for Learning (YCAL) in support of the Spring Grove Area High School’s Tech Club.
2) A monetary donation in the amount of $100.00 from Margaret Schlichter in support of the District’s Weekend Backpack Program.
3) A monetary donation in the amount of $100.00 from Carole Smith in support of the District’s Weekend Backpack Program.
4) A monetary donation in the amount of $100.00 from Mickey Quinn of Edward Jones in support of the Student Launch Initiative.
5) A monetary donation in the amount of $500.00 from Hanover Toyota to support the High School’s Fishing Club.
6) A monetary donation in the amount of $150.00 from the Spring Grove Lions Club in support of the High School’s Mountain Biking Club.
Vote by roll call on all items resulted in the motion carrying by unanimous vote.
POLICY REPORT / FOR INFORMATION ONLY
BUILDINGS & GROUNDS BOARD COMMITTEE CHANGE – Doug White has been named Board Buildings & Grounds Committee Chairperson in place of Benjamin Ramsay.
PERSONNEL
7. Following a report of the Personnel Committee’s recommendations read by Doug Stein, Stein moved, and
seconded the following:
A. Approval of the following revised position descriptions:
1) High School Principal
2) High School Assistant Principal
B. Approval of the following restructured position description:
1) Human Resources Generalist
C. Approval of the updated attached Level V Compensation Matrix.
D. Approval of the following resignation:
1) Spring Grove Area High School Instructional Assistant – Special Education – Heather Austin, effective March 31, 2023, to accept a position outside the district.
E. Approval of the following appointments, provisionally hired pending receipt of updated clearances and completed Act 168 disclosure forms from previous employers:
1) Spring Grove Area Middle School Math Instructor – Samuel Biesecker, effective at the beginning of the 2023-2024 school year, pending verification of Pennsylvania certification. Compensation established at Step 1 on the Bachelor’s Schedule.
2) Spring Grove Area Middle School Math Instructor – Lindsay Boritz, effective at the beginning of the 2023-2024 school year, pending verification of Pennsylvania certification. Compensation established at Step 1 on the Bachelor’s Schedule.
3) Paradise Elementary Administrative Assistant – Attendance – Sarah Thompson, effective March 28, 2023. Compensation established at $15.25 for 4.5 hours per day, 190 days per year.
4) Paradise Elementary Instructional Assistant Special Education – Daphne Conn, effective April 3, 2023. Compensation established at $17.50 for 7 hours per day, 180 days per year.
F. Approval of the following professional substitute for the 2022-2023 school year at a rate of $110.00 per
day and $125.00 per day beginning on the 21st day cumulative, provisionally hired pending receipt of
updated clearances and completed Act 168 disclosure forms from previous employers:
1) Samantha Jones
G. Approval of the following individual holding a bachelor’s degree and completing the District’s Guest Teacher orientation program to substitute teach in all subject areas during the 2022-2023 school year at a rate of $110.00 per day and $125.00 per day beginning on the 21st day cumulative, provisionally hired pending receipt of updated clearances and completed Act 168 disclosure forms from previous employers:
1) Marwa Jaadaria-Abbes
Vote by roll call on all items resulted in the motion carrying by unanimous vote.
PERSONNEL REPORT / FOR INFORMATION ONLY
A. FAMILY MEDICAL LEAVE ACT (FMLA) LEAVES GRANTED:
EMPLOYEE NAME |
BUILDING |
DEPARTMENT |
DATE LEAVE BEGINS (approximately) |
DATE LEAVE ENDS (approximately) |
---|---|---|---|---|
Megan Fatland |
Middle School |
Special Education |
08/18/2023 |
11/10/2023 |
Lindy Eisenhart |
Intermediate School |
Special Education |
08/18/2023 |
11/10/2023 |
Stein presented a confidential memorandum of personnel actions to be recommended at the April 10, 2023, Voting meeting.
PROGRAM REPORTS
CURRICULUM
8. Following a report of the Curriculum Committee’s recommendations read by Nicole Wilson, Wilson moved, and Baum seconded the following:
A. Approval to enter into a cooperative dual enrollment agreement with Earlbeck Gases and Technologies to provide eligible high school students with the opportunity to participate in the Earlbeck welding program and be awarded post-secondary credit through Earlbeck’s Registrar’s Office as indicated in the attached.
B. Approval to enter into agreement with Penn State Harrisburg and provide district facilities as a practicum and accept University student teachers / student interns.
C. MAJOR TRIP REQUESTS –
1) Approval for Abigail Kirkpatrick, High School Music Teacher, to accompany two high school students to the PMEA All-State Jazz and Vocal Jazz Festival at Pocono Mountain West High School, PA, April 19-21, 2023.
2) Approval for Chris Mundy, High School Counselor and Assistant Director of Select Modern Band, to accompany one high school student to the NAfME All-Eastern Honors Ensemble Festival in Rochester, New York, April 13-16, 2023.
D. Approval to continue to provide a comprehensive Dental Hygiene Program in the Spring Grove Area School District, for a maximum of 90 days during the 2023-2024 school year, with Dr. John P. Popernack, D.M.D., serving as the new dental consultant on a voluntary basis and Ms. Karla McCleary, who holds a Pennsylvania Teaching Certificate for Dental Hygiene, continuing as Dental Hygienist.
E. Approval of the confidential student services agreement as documented and reviewed by the Board of School Directors during executive session on March 13, 2023, and as agreed upon by the Spring Grove Area School District and all parties affiliated with the student.
Vote by roll call on all items resulted in the motion carrying by unanimous vote.
ADJOURNMENT:
Ritz moved for adjournment at 7:58 PM. Wilson seconded. Meeting adjourned by a unanimous voice vote.
RESPECTFULLY SUBMITTED BY:
Mark A. Czapp,
Director of Business Operations/Board Secretary
March 13, 2023 Directors' Study Forum Minutes
SPRING GROVE AREA SCHOOL DISTRICT
BOARD OF SCHOOL DIRECTORS
DIRECTORS’ STUDY FORUM MEETING
DATE/TIME of MEETING: March 13, 2023 @ 7:14 PM
LOCATION of MEETING: SPRING GROVE AREA MIDDLE SCHOOL
244 OLD HANOVER ROAD, SPRING GROVE, PA
ATTENDANCE:
The following School Directors were in attendance: Karen Baum, Ben Ramsay, Michael Ritz, Rachel Rohrbaugh, Rodney Shearer, Doug Stein, Dave Trettel, Doug White, Nicole Wilson
The following School Directors were absent:
The following Spring Grove Area School District Administrators were in attendance: Dr. George W. Ioannidis, Superintendent; Dr. Steve Guadagnino, Assistant Superintendent; Mr. Mark Czapp, Director of Business Operations/Board Secretary; Dr. Michelle Ludwig, Director of Pupil Services
A Directors’ Study meeting of the Board of School Directors of the Spring Grove Area School District was held on Monday, March 13, 2023, following adjournment of the voting meeting. Rachel Rohrbaugh, Board President, called the meeting to order at 7:14 PM, noting the same board members in attendance from the earlier voting meeting.
PUBLIC COMMENT
There was no public comment.
BUSINESS AND FINANCE COMMITTEE REPORTS:
BUDGET AND FINANCE
Mark Czapp presented a request from Jefferson Borough to waive real estate taxes for a parcel of land that they intend to obtain through a sheriff sale due to poor physical condition and outstanding judgments and liens on the property. The Borough's plan is to refurbish and restore the property to a taxable parcel. The Board will consider approval of the waiver at the March 27th regular voting meeting.
Czapp and Chris Enck presented results from a recent Managed Print Services RFP. After evaluation of two proposals, the Board will consider approval of a contract with Doceo and enter into a five-year lease agreement for print/copy services at a cost of $3,600 per month at the March 27th regular voting meeting. The district has the option to outsource larger print jobs to address turnaround time issues and will experience a savings conservatively estimated at $75,000 per year.
Czapp presented updates to the proposed 2023-2024 General Fund Budget noting a projected smaller deficit at the close of the 2022-2023 fiscal year than previously budgeted. Czapp included an overview of the history of PDE’s Enhanced Index tax rate for the district versus the actual percentage increase from 2016-2017 to present and noted that the Board voted a tax increase to the Index only once in the past seven years.
Ioannidis and Czapp welcomed and introduced Chris Gibbons with Concord Public Finance to present debt restructuring scenarios and new money options in combination with the proposed budget. Gibbons noted that the district’s current outstanding debt service extends through the 2028-2029 fiscal year. He provided four options to board members as they consider the 2023-2024 tax rate, assigned and unassigned fund balances, and possibilities for funding approximately $8 million in proposed capital projects. Following the Board’s discussion, Ioannidis thanked Czapp and Gibbons and noted the Board will continue its review at the April 10th DSF meeting.
BUILDINGS AND GROUNDS
Bill Stiles presented four options to replace the Papermakers Stadium Scoreboard for the Board’s consideration. He asked for direction from board members to move forward and solicit quotes from among the options. Following discussion, the Board requested Stiles to secure quotes from NEVCO and Watchfire for a full digital scoreboard with modified structure and include the information with the March 27th proposed voting action items.
Stiles will collaborate with Community Relations and Athletics to explore options for advertising as well as donations from school-affiliated Booster Clubs and Athletic Associations.
Czapp and Stiles presented a draft RFP process and timeline for architectural services regarding proposed capitalprojects for review. Ramsay stated that CRA had already agreed to provide architectural services at the lowrange rate of 5.75% and questioned what the RFP process would do to save the district money. Wilson stated the RFP process would result in a loss of time to pressing start dates of potential projects. Following more discussion, consensus of the Board was to consider a motion to approve CRA as the architect for proposed projects at the March 27th voting meeting. If the motion fails, the administration will move forward with the RFP process.
Ioannidis presented an addendum to the YMCA agreement for review. He followed up on board members’ questions submitted after Larry Richardson’s presentation at the February 27th meeting. The district will maintain control over the land outside of the building, and students will receive priority with regard to requests for the use of facilities and fields. A move of the ESC offices to the renovated building has been a tentative plan in place for several years; space for the offices was included in the layout presented by the YMCA. Specific CAM and maintenance costs, campus traffic flow, and facility parking concerns continue to be discussed and are included in the next phase of design. The Board will consider approval of the Addendum to the Agreement at the March 27th regular voting meeting.
MANAGEMENT COMMITTEE REPORTS:
POLICY
Dr. Guadagnino presented one minor revision proposed to Policy #827 for review. The Board will consider approval of a first reading at the March 27th regular voting meeting.
PERSONNEL
Ioannidis presented three updated position descriptions for review. An executive session was scheduled following adjournment to discuss the High School Principal and High School Assistant Principal proposed description revisions. Ioannidis referred to a detailed memorandum providing background information to proposed revisions and restructuring associated with the Human Resources Generalist position description, also to be discussed during executive session. The Board will consider approval of the three position descriptions at the March 27th regular voting meeting.
Stein presented a confidential list of proposed personnel actions to be considered for approval at the March 27th regular voting meeting.
PROGRAM COMMITTEE REPORTS:
CURRICULUM
Guadagnino presented a proposed Dual Enrollment Agreement with Earlbeck for review. A presentation shared with board members at the January 9th DSF highlighted the certified welding program opportunity that will be available to students beginning in the 2023-2024 school year. The Board will consider approval at the March 27th regular voting meeting.
Guadagnino presented a proposed Affiliation Agreement with Penn State Harrisburg for review. Language is consistent with other agreements approved by the Board for students to fulfill requirements of educational internships in the district. The Board will consider approval at the March 27th regular voting meeting.
Guadagnino presented two Major Trip proposals for review. The Board will consider approval of the requests at the March 27th meeting.
Dr. Ludwig presented a memorandum for the continuation of the District Dental Program for the 2023-2024 school year. The Board will consider approval at the March 27th meeting.
Ioannidis presented comments related to a proposed agreement for student services, to be discussed further with Dr. Ludwig during executive session. The Board will be asked to consider approval of the confidential agreement at the March 27th regular voting meeting.
PLANNING:
In follow up to the Board-requested survey conducted in the spring of 2022, Dr. Ioannidis will present updates during his March 27th Superintendent’s Report.
ADJOURNMENT:
Ritz moved for adjournment at 10:04 PM. Baum seconded. The meeting adjourned by unanimous voice vote.
RESPECTFULLY SUBMITTED BY:
Mark A. Czapp,
Director of Business Operations/Board Secretary
March 13, 2023 Voting Meeting Minutes
SPRING GROVE AREA SCHOOL DISTRICT
BOARD OF SCHOOL DIRECTORS
VOTING MEETING
DATE/TIME of MEETING: March 13, 2023 @ 7:00 PM
LOCATION of MEETING: SPRING GROVE AREA MIDDLE SCHOOL
244 OLD HANOVER ROAD, SPRING GROVE, PA
ATTENDANCE:
The following School Directors were in attendance: Karen Baum, Ben Ramsay, Michael Ritz, Rachel Rohrbaugh, Rodney Shearer, Doug Stein, Dave Trettel, Doug White, Nicole Wilson
The following School Directors were absent:
The following Spring Grove Area School District Administrators were in attendance: Dr. George W. Ioannidis, Superintendent; Dr. Steve Guadagnino, Assistant Superintendent; Mr. Mark Czapp, Director of Business Operations/Board Secretary; Dr. Michelle Ludwig, Director of Pupil Services
A voting meeting of the Board of School Directors of the Spring Grove Area School District was held on Monday, March 13, 2023. Rachel Rohrbaugh, Board President, called the meeting to order at 7:00 PM. The pledge of allegiance was recited, followed by a moment of silence. Roll call confirmed nine board members in attendance. Rohrbaugh stated there was an executive session held on February 27, 2023, for personnel and real estate purposes. The Board will meet in executive session following adjournment of tonight’s discussion meeting for personnel, real estate, and a student matter.
PUBLIC COMMENT
Heather Zimmerman, Paradise Township resident, stated concerns regarding the YMCA’s request to use district athletic fields and facilities and asked if the Board has considered requiring the YMCA to assist with repair and maintenance costs. She is also concerned about parking and flow of traffic at the center considering Intermediate School students’ use of space in the existing parking lot during recess.
Ioannidis acknowledged Zimmerman’s concerns and noted they are under consideration. SGRPRC currently uses facilities and fields through the interagency agreement the same as other organizations who follow policy related to facility usage. Mr. Laux’s office will continue to handle all requests. Work being done by YMCA’s design team contains a proposal for improving the parking area, and any recommendation will include district approval.
CORRESPONDENCE
Rohrbaugh noted several items for board members’ consideration: A Wellness Council meeting is scheduled for March 23rd; the YCAL annual dinner is scheduled for April 5th; the LIU ballot for joint board membership was made available at seats in addition to an invitation for the Rocket Wellness Center Open House on March 20th.
ACTION VOTING ITEMS
PERSONNEL
1. Following a report of the Personnel Committee’s recommendations read by Doug Stein, Stein moved, and
Trettel seconded the following:
A. Approval of the following retirement resignation, with regret:
1) Spring Grove Area School District Administrative Assistant – Human Resources – Theresa Rohrbaugh, effective January 3, 2024, for the purposes of retirement following 24.5 years of service with the school district.
B. Approval of the following resignations:
1) Spring Grove Area Middle School Instructional Assistant – Special Education and Cafeteria Support – Regina Riddle, effective March 1, 2023, for personal reasons.
2) Spring Grove Elementary School Instructional Assistant – Special Education – Elizabeth Swiger, effective March 8, 2023, to accept a position in another district.
3) Paradise Elementary School Instructional Assistant – Special Education – Heather Townsend, effective March 17, 2023, to accept another position outside the district.
C. Approval of the following appointments, provisionally hired pending receipt of updated clearances and completed Act 168 disclosure forms from previous employers:
1) Spring Grove Area Middle School Instructional Assistant Special Education (Emotional Support) – Lauren Wantz, effective March 14, 2023. Compensation established at $17.50 per hour for 7 hours per day, 180 days per year.
2) Spring Grove Elementary School Full Time Custodian (2nd shift) – Elizabeth Zumbrum, effective March 14, 2023. Compensation established at $15.30 per hour, 8 hours per day, 260 days per year. D. Approval of the following coach for the 2022-2023 Spring Season, with compensation determined by the Coaches’ Salary Matrix, and authorizing discretion to reduce, pro-rate, or cancel any appropriated payment because of a delayed, shortened, or canceled season due to COVID-19:
Job Title: Softball - Varsity Assistant Coach; Coach Name: Zachary Stiles; Stipend $2,909.00
E. Approval of the following Act 86 substitutes for a maximum of 20 days for the 2022-2023 school year at a rate of $110.00 per day, provisionally hired pending receipt of updated clearances and completed Act 168 disclosure forms from previous employers:
1) Kinser Laughman
2) Alexis Meeks
3) Mallory Tome
F. Approval of the following classified substitute for the 2022-2023 school year at the hourly rates indicated on the Support Staff Compensation (Minimum Salary) Matrix, provisionally hired pending receipt of updated clearances, and completed Act 168 disclosure forms from previous employers:
Stacy White
Vote by roll call resulted in the motion carrying by unanimous vote.
2. Following a report of the Curriculum Committee’s recommendations read by Nicole Wilson, Wilson moved,
and Baum seconded the following:
A. Approval for Sherry Stambaugh, Middle School Gifted teacher, Katherine Tackett, Elementary Music
teacher, and 16 volunteers to accompany 35 middle school and intermediate school students to Odyssey
of the Mind 2023 Pennsylvania State Finals at Lock Haven University, March 31-April 1, 2023.
Vote by roll call resulted in the motion carrying by unanimous vote.
Ramsay made a motion to amend the agenda and add a discussion item and potential vote to the Directors’ Study Forum regarding the previously presented CRA agreement for architectural services for proposed projects.
Stein and Shearer questioned the motion. Rohrbaugh clarified the motion on the table and called for a roll call vote after discussion was held.
White, Trettel, Ramsay, and Rohrbaugh voted in favor. Shearer, Wilson, Stein, Baum, and Ritz voted against.
Motion failed.
ADJOURNMENT:
Trettel moved for adjournment at 7:14 PM. Ritz seconded. The meeting adjourned by unanimous voice vote.
RESPECTFULLY SUBMITTED BY:
Mark A. Czapp,
Director of Business Operations/Board Secretary
February 27, 2023 Regular Voting Meeting Minutes
SPRING GROVE AREA SCHOOL DISTRICT
BOARD OF SCHOOL DIRECTORS
REGULAR VOTING MEETING
DATE/TIME of MEETING: February 27, 2023 @ 7:00 PM
LOCATION of MEETING: MIDDLE SCHOOL LGI ROOM #242
244 OLD HANOVER ROAD, SPRING GROVE, PA
ATTENDANCE:
The following School Directors were in attendance: Karen Baum, Ben Ramsay, Michael Ritz, Rachel Rohrbaugh, Rodney Shearer, Doug Stein, Dave Trettel, Doug White
The following School Directors were absent: Nicole Wilson
The following Spring Grove Area School District Administrators were in attendance: Dr. George W. Ioannidis, Superintendent; Dr. Steve Guadagnino, Assistant Superintendent; Mr. Mark Czapp, Director of Business Operations/Board Secretary
A regular voting meeting of the Board of School Directors of the Spring Grove Area School District was held on Monday, February 27, 2023. Rachel Rohrbaugh, Board President, called the meeting to order at 7:04 PM. The Pledge of Allegiance was recited, and a moment of silence was observed. Roll call reflected eight board members in physical attendance, with Nicole Wilson absent for personal reasons.
Rohrbaugh reported that an executive session was held on February 13, 2023, for personnel and negotiations reasons. An executive session was held before this evening’s meeting for student discipline, and another session will take place after adjournment for personnel and real estate reasons.
PUBLIC COMMENT
There was no public comment.
SUPERINTENDENT’S REPORT
Dr. Ioannidis extended congratulations to Max Trimmer, high school student, who recently won first place in his division in a local chess tournament hosted by York Chess. Max is also to be congratulated as top-scoring member of our High Quiz Bowl Team. He, along with Ethan Bohn, Henry Rumbaugh, and Mark Austin were named 2023 York-Adams League Champions.
Congratulations to Wyatt Amspacher, high school senior, who triumphed in the PeoplesBank Stock Market Challenge by taking first place in York County and 4th place in PA.
Congratulations to Rocket athletes who placed in the top three at the 2023 YAIAA Swimming and Diving Championships: Ashley Rauhauser, first place in the 100 Backstroke; Sean Henning, first place, and Brady Hoopes, second place in 1M Diving; Sarah Czapp, third place in the 100 Freestyle; and Ashley, Sarah, Caitlyn Martin, and Madison Bortner, third place in the 200 Relay.
Aiden Minetola, 8th grade student, won first place in the Patriot’s Pen writing contest sponsored by the VFW Post
5265. Charlee Kurtz, high school student, won the VFW’s Voice of Democracy essay contest for Pennsylvania.
Charlee also won, along with Ada Miler, best witness award at the Ben Franklin Mock Trial Invitational; John Reilly won best attorney award.
Lucas Buhrman and Leland Klinedinst have been accepted into the 2023 PMEA All-State Vocal Jazz Ensemble.
On April 15th, 8 students will participate in the PMEA District 7 Modern Band Festival in the High School’s Rohrbaugh Auditorium. Congratulations to Jorge Caraballo, Chela Martin, Caralyn Neff, Gracie Shaub, Ashlyn Tyson, Dylan Pierce, Ella Bahn, and Tanner Glace.
Congratulations to Dr. Ludwig and the Pupil Services Department on a successful audit of our District Homelessness Program.
District Technology Specialists Brent Barge, Kim Dunlap, Kristen Henning, John Sengia, and Chris Enck, recently presented at the PETE&C conference on such topics as Student-Run Help Desks, Sharing Google Sites, LEGO Spike Robotics, and Making Math Virtual, in addition to facilitating a panel discussion on Cybersecurity Leadership.
A reconciliation report received through a partnership with Panera Bread to collect “end-of-day dough-nations” for the District Weekend Backpack Program indicated an estimated value of food items received in 2022 just shy of $30,000. Thank you to the many volunteers who make this a successful program for students and families.
The district currently tracks approximately 275 home educated students who have now been granted opportunity to access their child’s Sapphire data account in an effort to offer equitable options to families of students in all educational learning environments.
Ioannidis closed by reporting that the District III wrestling tournament was held at the high school over the weekend, and crediting Tony Miller, Bill Stiles, and Melissa Freestone in large part for its success. Spring Grove’s Michael Hershey took third place, and Teague Hanover took fourth. Congratulations also to Cora Keener who finished in second place at District III diving.
STUDENT REPRESENTATIVE’S REPORT
There was no student representative report.
CORRESPONDENCE
Rohrbaugh thanked the staff and students who impacted the wrestling event last weekend and stated that the district has a lot to be proud of.
LEGISLATIVE UPDATE
Dr. Ioannidis reported that chambers are considering a bill and constitutional amendment to extend the timeline for legal action related to child abuse. Governor Shapiro’s first budget address is scheduled for March 7th, and the teacher shortage problem will be among other reports included from the Senate Education Committee.
YORK COUNTY SCHOOL OF TECHNOLOGY
Trettel reported a meeting is scheduled for next month.
YORK ADAMS ACADEMY
Baum reported a YAA meeting scheduled for Tuesday. Spring Grove continues to fill its 12 reserved seats, and board members are anxious to approve the proposed 23-24 budget with no increase.
APPROVAL OF MINUTES
1. Trettel moved and Baum seconded approval of the following minutes: Regular Voting Meeting on January
23, 2023, and respective Voting / Directors’ Study Forum Meetings held on February 13, 2023. The motion
was unanimously approved by voice vote.
TREASURER’S REPORTS
2. White presented the Treasurer’s Report for month ending January 31, 2023. White moved to approve the
report as presented. Ramsay seconded the motion, approved by unanimous vote.
BUSINESS/FINANCE REPORTS
BUDGET AND FINANCE
3. Following a report of the Budget and Finance Committee’s recommendations read by Doug White, White
moved, and Trettel seconded the following:
A. Approval of the Accounts Payable lists as presented.
B. Approval of the proposed 2023-2024 General Fund Budget for York Adams Academy, with a total expenditure amount of $783,175 representing an increase of $3,879 compared to 2022-2023 and no increase to per seat tuition cost for member districts, maintaining Spring Grove Area School District’s portion at $55,800 from the previous year.
C. Approval to add Autism York, a not-for-profit 501c3 organization, to the 2022-2023 list of fund-raising organizations approved for students and/or staff to raise funds during the 2022-2023 school year, in accordance with Board Policy #229.
D. Approval to turn the following listed delinquent Real Estate tax accounts over to the York County Tax
Claim Bureau:
MUNICIPALITY TAX YEAR AMOUNT
Heidelberg Township 2022 – 2023 $78,809.15
Jackson Township 2022 – 2023 $199,816.11
Jackson Township 2021 – 2022 $7,746.19
Jefferson Borough 2022 – 2023 $15,532.06
Jefferson Borough 2021 – 2022 $3,403.05
Jefferson Borough 2020 – 2021 $278.58
New Salem Borough 2022 – 2023 $17,900.17
North Codorus Township 2022 – 2023 $202,671.59
North Codorus Township 2021 – 2022 $14,498.93
North Codorus Township 2020 – 2021 $353.55
Paradise Township 2022 – 2023 $152,195.32
Seven Valleys Borough 2022 – 2023 $11,391.63
Seven Valleys Borough 2021 – 2022 $1,120.79
Spring Grove Borough 2022 – 2023 $55,400.31
Total: $761,117.43
Vote by roll call resulted in the motion carrying by unanimous vote.
BUILDINGS AND GROUNDS
Informational Item
The following mandated fire drills for the month of January were entered into the minutes:
SCHOOL BUILDING DATE OF DRILL MINUTES SECONDS
SCHOOL BUILDING |
DATE OF DRILL |
MINUTES |
SECONDS |
---|---|---|---|
New Salem Elementary |
01/18/2023 |
2 |
28 |
Paradise Elementary |
01/24/2023 |
1 |
20 |
Spring Grove Elementary |
01/30/2023 |
2 |
24 |
Spring Grove Area Intermediate School |
01/24/2023 |
2 |
06 |
Spring Grove Area Middle School |
01/05/2023 |
2 |
14 |
Spring Grove Area High School |
01/27/2023 |
4 |
13 |
Ioannidis welcomed and introduced Larry Richardson, Executive Director of YMCA of the Roses, who provided a presentation and update regarding the Roth’s Church Road Community Partnership project, including the proposed layout and design, projected occupants, and community services to be provided. Next steps include finalizing design development, securing engineering documents, bidding and permitting, and ultimately, construction.
School Board members will continue the review and discussion of the Addendum Agreement at the March 13th Directors’ Study Forum, with a request for action anticipated with March 27th voting items.
TRANSPORTATION
4. Following a report of the Transportation Committee’s recommendations read by Michael Ritz,
Ritz moved, and Ramsay seconded the following:
A. Approval of the following additional contracted Krise Bus Company Bus/Van Driver for the 2022-2023
school year in accordance with the pupil transportation state regulations as set forth in 22 Pa Code 23.4:
1) Jessmin Ramirez Pichardo
Vote by roll call resulted in the motion carrying by unanimous vote.
MANAGEMENT REPORTS
POLICY
5. Following a report of the Policy Committee’s recommendations read by Karen Baum, Baum moved, and Trettel seconded the following:
A. Approval of the High School Administration and Superintendent’s recommendation that the Agreement,
Waiver and Stipulation, numbered 2022-2023, #003, and ratified on February 23, 2023, be approved as
documented.
B. Approval of a first reading for the following policy:
1) Revisions to Policy 218: Student Discipline
C. Acceptance of the following donations/grants in accordance with Board Policy No. 702, Gifts, Grants
and Donations:
1) A monetary grant in the amount of $5,000.00 from the PA Space Grant Consortium in support of District NASA SLI, TARC, and Battle of the Rockets teams.
2) A monetary donation in the amount of $100.00 from Margaret Schlichter in support of the District’s Weekend Backpack Program.
3) A monetary donation in the amount of $200.00 from York Twinning Association in support of the High School Music Department.
4) A monetary donation in the amount of $200.00 from the Spring Grove Area Historical Preservation Society to support travel costs associated with the summer 2023 overseas trip to Europe.
Vote by roll call on all items resulted in the motion carrying by unanimous vote.
PERSONNEL
6. Following a report of the Personnel Committee’s recommendations read by Doug Stein, Stein moved, and Trettel seconded the following:
A. Approval of the following retirement resignation, with regret:
1) Spring Grove Elementary School Head Cook – Nutrition Supervisor – Ruth Wentz, effective August 1, 2023, for the purpose of retirement following 27 years of service with the school district.
B. Approval of the following resignations:
1) Spring Grove Area Middle School Health Care Assistant Nurse – Licensed – Laura Triantafyllou, effective March 2, 2023, for personal reasons.
2) Varsity Assistant Track Coach – Tony Jones, Sr., effective February 8, 2023, for personal reasons.
C. Approval of the following additional coaches for the 2022-2023 Spring Season, with compensation determined by the Coaches’ Salary Matrix, and authorizing discretion to reduce, pro-rate, or cancel any appropriated payment because of a delayed, shortened, or canceled seasons due to COVID-19:
Job Title: Girls Lacrosse - Varsity Head Coach; Coach Name: Lauren Grove; Stipend: $ 4,154.00
Job Title: Track and Field - Varsity Assistant Coach; Coach Name: Delaney Flaherty; Stipend: $ 2,909.00
D. Approval of the following new coach for the 2023-2024 Fall Season, with compensation determined by the Coaches’ Salary Matrix, and authorizing discretion to reduce, pro-rate, or cancel any appropriated payment because of a delayed, shortened, or canceled season:
Job Title: Football - Varsity Head Coach; Coach Name: Thomas Trone; Stipend: $ 6,500.00
E. Approval of the following professional substitute for the 2022-2023 school year at a rate of $110.00 per
day and $125.00 per day beginning on the 21st day cumulative, provisionally hired pending receipt of
updated clearances and completed Act 168 disclosure forms from previous employers:
1) Pamela Kimber
F. Approval of the following Act 86 substitutes for a maximum of 20 days for the 2022-2023 school year
at a rate of $110.00 per day, provisionally hired pending receipt of updated clearances and completed
Act 168 disclosure forms from previous employers:
1) Samuel Biesecker
2) Megan Daugherty
3) Kirsten Lane
Vote by roll call on all items resulted in the motion carrying by unanimous vote.
PERSONNEL REPORT / FOR INFORMATION ONLY
A. FAMILY MEDICAL LEAVE ACT (FMLA) LEAVES GRANTED:
EMPLOYEE NAME BUILDING DEPARTMENT DATE LEAVE BEGINS
EMPLOYEE NAME |
BUILDING |
DEPARTMENT |
DATE LEAVE BEGINS (approximately) |
DATE LEAVE ENDS (approximately) |
---|---|---|---|---|
Lucinda Peterson |
SGE |
High School |
02/14/2023 |
05/09/2023 |
Barbara Meckley |
Paradise |
Special Education |
03/02/2023 |
05/25/2023 |
Donna Caulfield |
Paradise |
Nutrition Services |
03/02/2023 |
05/25/2023 |
Stein presented a confidential memorandum of personnel actions to be recommended at the March 13, 2023, Voting meeting.
PROGRAM REPORTS
ATHLETICS AND MUSIC
7. Following a report of the Athletic and Music Committee’s recommendations read by David Trettel, Trettel
moved, and Ramsay seconded the following:
A. OVERNIGHT TRIP REQUESTS:
1) Approval for eligible Varsity Wrestling Team members and designated chaperones to travel to and
participate in the PIAA State Wrestling Championships at The Giant Center in Hershey,
Pennsylvania, March 9-11, 2023, dependent upon qualifying for the event.
2) Approval for eligible Varsity Bowling Team members and designated chaperones to travel to and
participate in the PA State Bowling Championships at Eastway Lanes in Erie, Pennsylvania, March
16-18, 2023, contingent upon qualifying for the event.
Vote by roll call on all items resulted in the motion carrying by unanimous vote.
CURRICULUM
8. Following a report of the Curriculum Committee’s recommendations read by David Trettel, Trettel moved,
and Ritz seconded the following:
B. OVERNIGHT CONFERENCE REQUESTS:
1) Approval for Melissa Freestone, Nutrition Services Manager, to attend the 2023 Legislative Action
Conference (LAC) at JW Marriott, Washington, DC, March 4-7, 2023.
2) Approval for Lisa Bahn, Wendi Bulgarelli, and Wendy Speir, Certified School Nurses, to attend the
Pennsylvania Association of School Nurses and Practitioners (PASNAP), 2023 Annual Education
Conference, Hershey Lodge, PA, March 31-April 2, 2023.
3) Approval for Julie Janusz, Federal Programs Coordinator, to attend the Pennsylvania Association of
Federal Programs Coordinators (PAFPC) conference at Kalahari Resorts and Convention Center,
Pocono Mountains, PA, April 16-19, 2023.
C. MAJOR TRIP REQUESTS:
1) Approval for Jill Trimmer, Middle School World Language Teacher, and Eric Trimmer, spouse of
Jill Trimmer, to accompany approximately five high school student rocket team members to
Culpeper, VA, for Battle of the Rockets April 13-16, 2023.
2) Approval for Jason Baker, High School Social Studies Teacher, Stephen Richards, Integrated Arts
Center Coordinator, and Nicole Harlacher, High School World Language Teacher, to travel to New
York City on Thursday, April 27, 2023, with approximately 50 high school students who are
involved with History Club.
3) Approval for Sarah Caplan, Senior Class Advisor, and one administrator, to accompany graduating
seniors to Pocono Valley, PA, on the senior class trip, Wednesday, May 31, 2023. Additional chaperones will also attend at a ratio of approximately one teacher/chaperone per every fifteen students.
4) Approval for Kathleen Krall, Abbie Sechrist, and Thomas Hunt, High School Teachers, to
accompany approximately 15 high school students to Germany and Czech Republic in the summer
of 2023.
Vote by roll call on all items resulted in the motion carrying by unanimous vote.
ADJOURNMENT:
Trettel moved for adjournment at 7:54 PM. Ritz seconded. Meeting adjourned by unanimous voice vote.
RESPECTFULLY SUBMITTED BY:
Mark A. Czapp,
Director of Business Operations/Board Secretary