Spring Cove Making Changes but Holding to Plans

The Monday, Aug. 10, Spring Cove School District School Board combined Committee of the Whole and Regular School Board meeting was heavily focused on getting the 2020-21 school year ready to start and adapt to changes which may have to be made as a result of rising numbers of COVID-19 cases throughout the county and state.

This was reflected in Superintendent Dr. Betsy Baker’s report.

Many of the maintenance projects faced delays this summer due to materials being delayed by COVID-19. The projects are getting done, only slower than expected.

The PIAA has delayed the start of the fall athletic season, while awaiting additional guidelines from the state. In the meantime, school district athletic teams continue their voluntary summer workouts.

Dr. Baker said they had received new recommendations from the Pennsylvania Department of Education and Department of Health regarding school reopening, which is currently being reviewed in order to determine the most appropriate path moving forward.

“Should it ultimately be determined that our plans need to change in any way, we will communicate that information as soon as a decision is made,” Dr. Baker emphasized. “In the meantime, we wish to reiterate that the district is taking preventative measures recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Gov. Wolf’s Executive Orders, the Pennsylvania Department of Health and other agencies, as outlined in the district’s Health and Safety Plan, to reduce the spread of COVID-19 and to create the safest environment feasibly possible during this Pandemic.

“However, an inherent risk of exposure, infection, or even death as a result of COVID-19 exists. As we move forward, we cannot stress enough how imperative it is that our students and their families follow all instructions and safety precautions as provided by the school district’s Health and Safety Plan for the health and well being of all, particularly the proper wearing of face coverings.”

The Dragon Pride Foundation purchased and donated neck gaiters as facial coverings for safety for all school-age children who would need them.

Dr. Baker emphasized that the administration and staff continues to find the best possible solutions to the challenges which continue to be presented to them each day.

The school board approved a list of all game workers and their stipends and those of officials for the 2020-21 school year.

The board also approved extending work at the Central High School paving project to Aug. 18 and reflect a credit of $6,259.75.

The resignation of district school nurse, Theresa Martin, was accepted by the board.

The board also approved an employment agreement with Richard Brozenich Jr. as school police officer, effective July 1, 2021, to June 30, 2025 .

The board approved a 31-month contract with Dynegy Energy Services East LLC beginning December 2020 through June 2023 for 100 percent of school’s electricity supply usage for all 14 of the district’s electricity accounts.

The board also approved the NFHS School Broadcast Program and Atlantic Broadband Internet for the Roaring Spring Athletic Stadium.

An executive session was held by the school board for personnel reasons following the regular school board meeting.

The public will continue to attend board meeting’s virtually and those wishing to attend can contact Dr. Baker’s office.

The district will hold its next Committee of the Whole Meeting at 7 p.m. Monday, Sept. 14. The site has yet to be determined.