Downingtown Area School District public meetings in 2024

2024-12-04 Board Meeting Agenda

The Downingtown Area School Board will discuss and potentially decide on a proposed attendance area change moving about 100 students from Lionville Elementary to Pickering Valley Elementary for fall 2025. The board will also hear the annual audit report, review a proposed 2025-2026 academic calendar, and receive presentations on student achievement and new curriculum resources for ELA and math. Consent items include approval of minutes, disbursements, financial reports, and personnel items.

• Proposed attendance area shift: streets including Asmore Way, Liongate Avenue, Jennifer Drive, Davis Road, Stirrup Lane, Fox Lane, Hunt Club Lane, Bridle Lane, Pickering Station Drive, French Creek Lane, Saddlebrook Circle, Pickering Circle, Upper Pine Creek Rd, McKinley Lane, Chase Lane, Harkaway Road, Tally Ho Lane, and even-numbered Conestoga Rd addresses 1340-1570
• Presentation of 2023-24 audit summary by Withum partner Carl Hogan
• Proposed 2025-2026 school calendar with 12-day winter break and five-day spring break; action expected in January 2025
• Presentation on proposed ELA resources for grades 6-8 and math resources for grades 9-12
• Student achievement report on 2023-2024 Pennsylvania assessment results with district comparisons

The Board approved several nondiscrimination policies regarding students and staff, an ELA Core Resource Pilot for grades 6-8, and a tuition reimbursement MOU for paraeducators. The meeting also included reports on student mental health and a presentation on student achievement data.

• Approved Policy NO 103 Discrimination and Harassment Affecting Students (9-0)
• Approved Policy NO 103.1 Nondiscrimination-Qualified Students with Disabilities (9-0)
• Approved Policy NO 104 Discrimination and Harassment Affecting Staff (9-0)
• Approved ELA Core Resource Pilot for grades 6-8 (9-0)
• Approved Teamsters MOU for Paraeducator Pathways Programs tuition reimbursement (9-0)
• Approved Release and Settlement Agreement with Employee #23528 (9-0)
• Approved Programs of Study for various district schools (9-0)
• Approved Change Order MC-015 credit for Myco Mechanical on DHSW expansion (9-0)

2024-11-25 Committee of the Whole

The Committee of the Whole is discussing a proposed elementary attendance area change for fall 2025 to create capacity for full-day kindergarten at Lionville Elementary. The body is also reviewing the 2023-24 audit report and proposed curriculum resources for ELA and Math.

• Proposed shift of approximately 100 students from Lionville Elementary to Pickering Valley Elementary for fall 2025
• Presentation of the 2023-24 Annual Auditor Report by Carl Hogan of Withum
• Proposed ELA (6-8) and Math (9-12) curriculum resources and an ELA Core Resource Pilot for grades 6-8
• MOU with Teamsters Local Union 384 regarding tuition reimbursement for Paraeducator Pathways Programs
• Budget transfers totaling $2,000 for East Ward Elementary staff professional development in New York City

The Committee of the Whole unanimously approved the November 6, 2024 minutes. Several personnel, curriculum, policy, and finance items were moved forward to the full board consent agenda. Other items, including the 2023-24 audited financial statements and boundary adjustments, were scheduled for full board action on December 4, 2024.

• Approved November 6, 2024 Committee of the Whole minutes (unanimous)
• Moved personnel items to full board consent agenda
• Moved reallocation, sale and disposal of assets to full board consent agenda
• Moved approval of Program of Study to full board consent agenda
• Moved approval of ELA Pilot for Grades 6-8 to full board consent agenda
• Moved policies NO 103, NO 103.1, and NO 104 to full board consent agenda
• Moved budget transfers to full board consent agenda
• Moved Myco Mechanical change order for DHSW Expansion Project to full board consent agenda

2024-11-13 Board Meeting Agenda

The Downingtown Area School Board will decide on a proposed boundary change moving about 100 students from Lionville Elementary to Pickering Valley Elementary for the 2025-26 school year, driven by full-day kindergarten and capacity needs. The board will also discuss elementary facility planning proposals for Lionville, Bradford Heights, and Brandywine Wallace schools, and receive updates on full-day kindergarten implementation and a property update on the Siemens site.

• Proposed attendance area shift: streets near Kimberton Road, Conestoga Road, and Pennsylvania Turnpike moved from Lionville Elementary to Pickering Valley Elementary
• Elementary facility planning proposal: high-level design and cost estimates for Lionville, Bradford Heights, and Brandywine Wallace schools
• Full-day kindergarten update and enrollment report presented
• Siemens property update and potential sale discussed
• Consent agenda includes approval of minutes, disbursements, financial reports, and personnel items

The Board approved the retention of Haviland Hughes to participate in a prescription opioid lawsuit. Other actions included approving financial reports, personnel items, and a state grant application for a solar project. A proposal to redistrict students from Lionville Elementary to Pickering Valley Elementary was presented, with a vote scheduled for December 4.

• Approved retention of Haviland Hughes for prescription opioid lawsuit (9-0)
• Approved state grant application for solar photovoltaic project (9-0)
• Approved Brandywine Virtual Academy contract for 24-25 school year (9-0)
• Approved settlement agreement with parents of Student #2573891437 (9-0)
• Approved agreement with Kencrest for student support services (9-0)
• Accepted PDE construction reimbursement for Uwchlan Hills Elementary Project #3875 (9-0)
• Approved Change Order GC-035 for Downingtown High School West expansion (9-0)
• Approved several student activity clubs including STEM Asian Student Alliance and Latino Student Union (9-0)

2024-11-06 Committee of the Whole

The Committee of the Whole is discussing elementary facility planning and boundary adjustments to accommodate a full-day kindergarten program. The board will review a proposal for high-level design and estimates for Lionville Elementary, Bradford Heights, and Brandywine Wallace.

• Proposed shift of approximately 100 students from Lionville Elementary to Pickering Valley Elementary
• Settlement agreement and release for student #2573891437 in the amount of $22,800.00
• Proposal for high-level design and estimates for Lionville, Bradford Heights, and Brandywine Wallace elementary schools
• Revised agreement for Talent Development Center Partnership with Chester County Intermediate Unit
• Retention of Haviland Hughes for participation in a prescription opioid lawsuit

The Committee of the Whole approved the September 30, 2024 minutes. Most other items, including facility change orders and personnel contracts, were moved to the November 13 Board Meeting for final approval. The board also discussed a proposal to shift approximately 100 students from Lionville Elementary to Pickering Valley Elementary.

• Approved September 30, 2024 Committee of the Whole minutes (unanimous voice vote)
• Moved personnel items and retention of Haviland Hughes to full board approval
• Moved reallocation, sale, disposal, and field trips to full board approval
• Moved contracts with CCIU-Brandywine Virtual Academy and Kencrest to full board approval
• Moved student activity clubs, donations, and budget transfers to full board approval
• Moved 14 facility change orders for DHSW, DHSE, and BCES projects to full board approval
• Moved proposal from Fidevia for elementary school renovation planning to full board approval
• Moved sales contract for Siemens Property to full board approval

2024-10-09 Board Meeting Agenda

The Board approved a consent agenda including a $12,500 renewal with Conrad Siegel for ACA reporting, personnel items, surplus disposal, field trips, and financial reports. They also received updates on the Siemens property, enrollment, PA Youth Survey results, and facility planning. Public comment was heard on action items.

• Approved $12,500 renewal agreement with Conrad Siegel for ACA reporting
• Approved personnel items for 2024-2025
• Approved surplus disposal: delta drill press, gym mats, wonder books from three schools
• Approved field trips
• Received presentation on Siemens property update and facility planning discussion

The Board approved a series of consent items including financial reports, personnel actions, and curriculum contracts. It also authorized a $12,500 agreement for ACA reporting and approved change orders for the Downingtown High School East expansion project.

• Approved renewal agreement with Conrad Siegel for ACA reporting at $12,500 (9-0)
• Approved 1-year contract with The Math Learning Center for Title 1 Math program (9-0)
• Approved settlement agreements with parents of students #4548017119 and #4752526972 (9-0)
• Approved adding Bank of Bird-in-Hand as a District Funds depository (9-0)
• Approved budget transfers for learning support workbooks at EW and LMS (9-0)
• Approved change order MC-004 to Tri-County Mechanical for DHSE project (9-0)
• Approved change order SC-014 (deduct) to Horst Excavating for DHSE project (9-0)
• Approved September 11, 2024 board meeting minutes (9-0)

2024-09-30 Committee of the Whole

The Committee of the Whole will review and recommend approval of several consent and action items to the full board, including the purchase of a house at 347 Manor Avenue for the high school special education transitions program, a $275,000 Storage Area Network upgrade, and multiple contracts and settlements. The meeting also includes a superintendent presentation on facility planning and demographic data.

• Purchase of 347 Manor Avenue, adjacent to STEM Academy, to expand special education transitions program (action item)
• Approval of $275,000 upgrade to Storage Area Network (SAN) for five-year term
• Renewal of agreement with Conrad Siegel for ACA reporting at $12,500
• Two settlement agreements with families of special education students: $15,500 and $500
• Change order (add) of $5,743 for exhaust fan at Downingtown High School East expansion project

The Committee of the Whole approved the September 4, 2024 minutes. Multiple items regarding personnel, curriculum, finance, and facilities were moved to the full board consent agenda or scheduled for action on October 9, 2024.

• Approved September 4, 2024 Committee of the Whole minutes (unanimous voice vote)
• Moved personnel items and Conrad Siegel for ACA Reporting to full board consent agenda
• Moved curriculum items, including Math Learning Center contract and settlement agreements, to full board consent agenda
• Moved new District Funds depository and budget transfers to full board consent agenda
• Moved seven facility change orders for DHSE, BCES, and WBES projects to full board consent agenda
• Scheduled Storage Area Network upgrade for full board approval on October 9, 2024
• Scheduled property purchase for full board approval on October 9, 2024
• Scheduled design and cost estimates for Bradford Heights, Brandywine Wallace, and Lionville Elementary for full board approval on October 9, 2024

2024-09-11 Board Meeting Agenda

The board will hear updates on several district initiatives, including ongoing negotiations for the Siemens/Lionville Station Farm property, which will not be finalized at this meeting. The board is expected to vote on a sale agreement at the October 9 meeting. The consent agenda includes approval of revised student discipline policies (218, 218.1, 218.2) and a public records policy (801), along with personnel items and financial reports. Public comment will be accepted on action items.

• Update on Siemens/Lionville Station Farm property negotiations; no agreement presented, vote expected October 9
• Approval of Policy 218 Student Discipline, Policy 218.1 Weapons, Policy 218.2 Terroristic Threats (consent)
• Approval of Policy 801 Public Records (consent)
• Personnel items approval (consent)
• Enrollment report (3rd and 10th day) and district initiatives update

The Board of Directors approved the August 14 meeting minutes, disbursements, financial reports, and personnel items. Additionally, the board approved 12 different school policies covering student discipline, safety, and public records.

• Approved August 14, 2024 board meeting minutes (9-0)
• Approved disbursements (9-0)
• Approved financial reports (9-0)
• Approved personnel items (9-0)
• Approved Policy 218 Student Discipline (9-0)
• Approved Policy 218.1 Weapons (9-0)
• Approved Policy 218.2 Terroristic Threats (9-0)
• Approved Policy 801 Public Records (9-0)

2024-09-04 Committee of the Whole

The Downingtown Area School Board will hear updates on AI integration, facilities planning, and community open houses. The most notable item is an update on the Lionville Station Farm property sale, where negotiations are ongoing and a proposed agreement may come to the board on September 30 for an October 9 vote.

• Superintendent report on Lionville Station Farm property negotiations; sale agreement delayed, possible vote Oct 9
• Two settlement agreements with parents: $85,000 (student #2507437936) and $27,000 (student #3505608076), unbudgeted from Special Education
• Contract with School Scheduling Associates for $4,500 for master scheduling consultation at Marsh Creek 6th Grade Center, DMS, and LMS
• Devereux Master Services Agreement for special education services at daily rates up to $465
• Renewal of Soundtrack Your Brand music license for $12,426 for all 16 buildings

The Committee of the Whole unanimously approved the August 7, 2024 minutes. The committee moved numerous personnel, curriculum, policy, finance, and facilities items forward to the full board's consent agenda for final approval.

• Approved August 7, 2024 Committee of the Whole minutes (unanimous voice vote)
• Moved personnel items to full board consent agenda
• Moved field trips and various curriculum contracts to full board consent agenda
• Moved 12 policy reviews, including student discipline and public records, to full board consent agenda
• Moved bus driver/aide and grant funding items to full board consent agenda
• Moved three plumbing and electrical change orders for DHSE and DHSW to full board consent agenda

2024-08-14 Board Meeting Agenda

The Board of Education is reviewing construction updates for four schools and finalizing start times and transportation for the upcoming school year. The board is also negotiating the sale of the Siemens / Lionville Station Farm property.

• Construction updates for Beaver Creek and West Bradford elementary schools and East and West high schools
• Approval of a $2,037.52 contract with Terri Erbacher, Ph.D. for professional development
• Approval of an $8,300.00 ESY Agreement with The Pathway School
• Approval of policies regarding drug, substance abuse, tobacco, and vaping
• Renewal of a dual-credit agreement with the University of Pittsburgh

The Board approved several new policies regarding drug, tobacco, and controlled substance use. They also authorized various curriculum contracts and facility change orders for high school and elementary school expansions.

• Approved Policy 351 Drug and Substance Abuse (8-0)
• Approved Policy 222 Tobacco and Vaping (8-0)
• Approved Policy 227 Controlled Substances/Paraphernalia (8-0)
• Approved Policy 323 Tobacco and Vaping Products (8-0)
• Renewed dual-credit agreements with University of Pittsburgh and DCCC (8-0)
• Approved software agreements for MagicSchool AI and Pick-Up Patrol (8-0)
• Approved engineering survey for new water main to Brandywine Wallace Elementary (8-0)
• Approved change orders for DHSE and WBES expansion projects (8-0)

2024-08-07 Committee of the Whole

The Committee of the Whole discusses updates on the 2024-2025 school year start times and transportation, the Lionville Station Farm property sale (no final agreement yet), and the final Pennsylvania budget. It also prepares to approve numerous curriculum contracts and software purchases, and reviews proposed policy changes on student discipline, weapons, terroristic threats, and emergency preparedness.

• Approval of $80,000.00 renewal contract with Avonbrook Consulting for BCBA behavioral support
• Renewal of 3-year $74,412.00 licensing agreement with Committee for Children for Second Step
• Approval of $30,068.50 purchase of Imagine Learning/Sonday System materials for special education
• Renewal of Pick Up Patrol software at $17,371.69 for K-8 student dismissal management
• Discussion of new policies on weapons (218.1), terroristic threats (218.2), and student discipline (218)

The Committee of the Whole moved several personnel, curriculum, policy, and facilities items to the full board's consent agenda. The board received updates on 2024-2025 school start times and a $1.8M increase in the Pennsylvania budget. Negotiations continue for the sale of the Lionville Station Farm property.

• Moved Pitt MOU Renewal to full board consent agenda
• Moved contract for Terri Erbacher, Ph.D. to full board consent agenda
• Moved ESY Agreement with The Pathway School to full board consent agenda
• Moved Pearson Keymath Curriculum quote to full board consent agenda
• Moved two Bayada Home Health Care, Inc. contract renewals to full board consent agenda
• Moved MagicSchool agreement and Pick Up Patrol software to full board consent agenda
• Moved policies on drug, tobacco, vaping, and controlled substances to full board consent agenda
• Moved DL Howell engineering survey and several DHSE/WBES expansion change orders to full board consent agenda

2024-07-10 Board Meeting Agenda

The board will discuss elementary school facility planning and a proposed attendance boundary change for the 2025-2026 school year. They will also vote on consent items including personnel, curriculum, field trips, and special education agreements. Public input is accepted on action items.

• Elementary attendance boundary change presentation for 2025-2026
• Discussion of elementary school facility planning
• Approval of an Extended School Year Services Agreement for $16,675
• Approval of disposal of old instruments, books, and equipment from multiple schools
• Approval of field trips including French exchange (France) and TSA Conference (Seven Springs, PA)

The Board approved a wide range of consent items, including personnel updates, financial reports, and multiple educational service agreements. Administration also discussed facility planning for elementary schools and potential attendance boundary changes for 2025-2026.

• Approved June 12, 2024 meeting minutes (9-0)
• Approved disbursements and financial reports (9-0)
• Approved personnel items (9-0)
• Approved renewal of MA Billing Agreement with Chester County Intermediate Unit (9-0)
• Approved contract with Houghton Mifflin Harcourt for Read 180 Code Books (9-0)
• Approved service agreement with Cartwheel Health Services, P.C. (9-0)
• Approved contract with NCS Pearson for universal behavior screener (9-0)
• Approved renewal of Lakeside Youth Service Agreement for Attendance Support (9-0)

2024-06-12 Board Meeting Agenda

The Downingtown Area School Board will hear a report on community feedback regarding the development of the district-owned Siemens Property in Uwchlan Township, with options including distribution, flex industrial, or active adult use. The board will also review a proposed K-8 math resource, discuss elementary school facility planning at Lionville and Bradford Heights, and consider an enrollment report. Consent agenda items include approval of minutes, disbursements, financial reports, and personnel items.

• Community feedback on Siemens Property development: strong support for low-density active adult use with open space
• Proposed K-8 math resource presentation
• Elementary facility planning: potential additions and renovations at Lionville and Bradford Heights, with $5M transfer to capital construction fund
• Enrollment report for 2024-25
• Approval of consent agenda items including disbursements and financial reports

The Board approved several consent items, including the appointment of a School Board Treasurer and a district delegate. Multiple educational resource renewals and service contracts were approved for the 2024-2025 school year. The board also reviewed reports on DEI, enrollment, and facility planning.

• Appointed David Matyas as School Board Treasurer for 2024-2025 (8-0)
• Appointed Michael DeAngelis as district delegate for Chester County Tax Collection Committee (8-0)
• Approved renewal of maintenance contract with Shop Specialties Inc. (8-0)
• Approved renewal of McGraw Hill ALEKS licenses and teacher development (8-0)
• Approved PHEAA Participation Agreement for paid Mental Health Internships (8-0)
• Approved Customer Service Agreement with Garber Metrology for scale calibration (8-0)
• Approved Melmark Placement Agreement for Extended School Year services (8-0)
• Approved agreement with National Student Clearinghouse for outcome tracking data (8-0)

2024-05-08 Board Meeting Agenda

This meeting is largely ceremonial with recognitions of students, staff, and retirees. The board will hear a presentation on the Siemens property (community conversation) and review an enrollment report. No major votes or policy changes are scheduled.

• Siemens Community Conversation to discuss potential opportunities for the district
• Resolution honoring retiring employees (attached PDF)
• Enrollment report presentation (attached PDF)
• Recognitions: PA Teacher of the Year finalist Anne Fisher, Citadel Heart of Learning finalists Natalie Handley and Matt McCloskey
• Student representative reports from DHSW, DHSE, and STEM

2024-05-01 Committee of the Whole

The Committee of the Whole discusses the proposed 2024-25 budget, which includes a 3.9% tax increase (3% after homestead discount) and an extra $1.05 million in state property tax relief. The budget also supports planning for full-day kindergarten in 2025-26. Personnel and curriculum items are reviewed, with a final board vote scheduled for May 8.

• Proposed 3.9% tax increase for 2024-25; average bill up $157 on $185,000 assessment
• $94,377.78 for Flinn Scientific supplies for new PA STEELS science curriculum
• $27,562.50 contract with Sweet, Stevens, Katz & Williams for special education legal services
• $24,500 waiver agreement with parents of a special education student
• Delta Dental renewal at $3.40 per enrollee per month (no increase)

The Committee of the Whole unanimously approved the April 3, 2024 minutes. Most other items, including the 2024-2025 General Fund Budget and a food service contract, were moved to the consent agenda or designated as action items for full board approval on May 8, 2024.

• Approved April 3, 2024 Committee of the Whole minutes (unanimous voice vote)
• Moved personnel items to Consent Agenda for full board approval
• Moved reallocation, sale and disposal items to Consent Agenda for full board approval
• Moved field trips to Consent Agenda for full board approval
• Moved PASCO Scientific to Consent Agenda for full board approval
• Moved EMS Contract for DASD Special Olympics Field Day to Consent Agenda for full board approval
• Moved waiver agreement to Consent Agenda for full board approval
• Moved contract revision with Vector Solutions to Consent Agenda for full board approval

2024-04-08 Board Meeting Agenda

The Downingtown Area School Board will vote on a proposed 2024-2025 general fund budget that includes a 3.9% tax increase, below the state's Act 1 index. The budget supports full-day kindergarten planning for 2025-2026 and includes funding for operations and elementary construction. The board will also hear a strategic plan presentation and a science curriculum proposal.

• Vote on proposed 2024-2025 budget with 3.9% tax increase (average annual increase $213 per $185,000 assessed home)
• Full-day kindergarten implementation planned for 2025-2026, not contingent on selling Siemens property
• Purchase of Taylor and Francis Group Natural Disasters resources for $22,603.03 for high school courses
• Approval of field trips including STEM choir/orchestra trip to Disney World and DHSW trip to Denmark
• Science curriculum proposal presented for discussion

The Board approved the K-12 Science and Technology & Engineering curriculum for the 2024-25 school year along with several science-related instructional resources. Members also approved facility change orders for the Downingtown High School East and West expansion projects. A recommended 2024-2025 General Fund Budget featuring a 3.9% tax increase was presented for future approval.

• Approved K-12 Science and Technology & Engineering curriculum documents (7-0)
• Approved Discovery Education's Mystery Science Curriculum Packs for K-5 (7-0)
• Approved Taylor and Francis Group Natural Disasters resources (7-0)
• Approved Positive Physics and Chemistry resources (7-0)
• Approved Goodheart-Willcox Online Learning Suites for Audio and Video courses (7-0)
• Approved plumbing change orders PC-004 and 005 for DHSW expansion (7-0)
• Approved mechanical change orders MC-008 and 009 for DHSW expansion (7-0)
• Approved general contractor change orders GC-015 and GC-016 for DHSE expansion (7-0)

2024-04-03 Special Board Meeting

The Downingtown Area School Board approved a $3,916,700 contract with Allstates Mechanical, Ltd. for HVAC work at West Bradford Elementary School as part of a capital project. The special meeting also included public input, visitor comments, and procedural items.

• Approval of $3,916,700 HVAC/mechanical contract with Allstates Mechanical, Ltd. for West Bradford Elementary School Additions and Alterations Capital Project

The Board approved a contract with Allstates Mechanical, Ltd. for the HVAC/Mechanical Construction Contract for the West Bradford Elementary School Additions and Alterations Capital Project.

• Approved HVAC/Mechanical Construction Contract with Allstates Mechanical, Ltd. for WBES (8-0)

2024-04 03 Committee of the Whole

The Committee of the Whole is discussing and will recommend action on a comprehensive K-12 science and technology curriculum update, including numerous digital resources, textbooks, and robotics kits. The board also considers a contract for facilities staff services, telemedicine renewals, and technology system renewals. Several policy revisions and field trips are on the consent agenda.

• Approval of Carolina Biological's OpenSciEd online resources for grades 6-8 Science ($336,294.27)
• Approval of Savvas Learning Biology, Chemistry, Environmental Science resources ($282,316.00)
• Renewal of Infinite Campus student information system for five years ($250,500.00)
• Approval of Birdbrain Technologies robotic systems ($58,171.60) and VEX Robotics EXP system ($74,520.00)
• Agreement with School Operations Service Group, Inc. for facilities staff at 30% markup

The Committee of the Whole approved the March 6, 2024 minutes and moved several personnel, curriculum, finance, and facilities items to the full board consent agenda. Various agreements and purchases were designated as action items for the April 8, 2024 school board meeting. The committee also reviewed the 2024-2025 CCIU Preliminary Budgets.

• Approved March 6, 2024 Committee of the Whole minutes (unanimous voice vote)
• Moved personnel items to Consent Agenda for full board approval
• Moved field trips and various curriculum resources to Consent Agenda for full board approval
• Moved tax lien exoneration and budget transfers to Consent Agenda for full board approval
• Moved DHSW and DHSE expansion project change orders to Consent Agenda for full board approval
• Designated agreements with School Operations Service Group, Inc., SwiftMD, and Horace Mann for full board approval on April 8
• Designated technology renewals for Infinite Campus, Securly, and Microsoft EES for full board approval on April 8
• Designated CCIU Core and Occupational Education Budgets for full board approval on April 8

2024-03-13 Board Meeting Agenda

The board will hear presentations on bid results for Beaver Creek and West Bradford elementary school projects, the 2024-2025 general fund budget, a demographic study update, and a full-day kindergarten proposal. Consent items include approval of minutes, disbursements, financial reports, personnel items (including a release and settlement with an employee and the teachers' union), and policy updates on purchasing thresholds. The meeting also recognizes the Lionville Middle School Future City team for placing second nationally.

• Bid results for Beaver Creek and West Bradford elementary school projects presented by Gilbert Architects
• 2024-2025 General Fund Budget presentation
• Full-day kindergarten proposal from March 6 Committee of the Whole
• Demographic study update (approved October 2023)
• Approval of release and settlement between Downingtown Area Education Association and Employee 24311

The Board approved several consent items including personnel actions, financial reports, and three district policies. It also authorized a dual enrollment agreement with West Chester University and change orders for expansion projects at Downingtown High School East and West.

• Approved board meeting minutes from February 14, 2024 (9-0)
• Approved disbursements and financial reports (9-0)
• Approved personnel items and a release and settlement for Employee Number 24311 (9-0)
• Approved Policy NO 610 (Purchase Subject to Bid Quotation), NO 611 (Purchases Budgeted), and NO 254 (Educational Opportunity for Military Children) (9-0)
• Approved renewal of Dual Enrollment Agreement with West Chester University (9-0)
• Approved contract with MedAdventures for school psychologist services at $108-$118 per hour (9-0)
• Approved renewal of Licensed Authorized Trainer agreement with American Red Cross (9-0)
• Approved change orders for DHSE and DHSW expansion projects for Myco Mechanical, Inc. and The Farfield Company, Inc. (9-0)

2024-03-06 Committee of the Whole

The Committee of the Whole is reviewing several high-cost technology purchases and special education contracts. The board will also discuss a demographic study report and a presentation on full-day kindergarten.

• Proposed $269,000 purchase of 140 computers for Project Lead the Way courses
• Proposed $179,000 for network infrastructure at West and East high schools
• Proposed $139,000 for PA systems at Kottmeyer and DeSerafino athletic facilities
• Proposed $116,724.82 enrollment agreement with Valley Forge Educational Services
• New Policy 254 regarding educational opportunities for military children

The Committee of the Whole unanimously approved the February 7, 2024 meeting minutes. Several personnel, curriculum, policy, and facilities items were moved to the Consent Agenda for full board approval. Other technology and finance requests were scheduled as action items for the March 13, 2024 board meeting.

• Approved February 7, 2024 Committee of the Whole minutes (unanimous voice vote)
• Moved personnel items and release/settlement to Consent Agenda for full board approval
• Moved WCU Dual Enrollment, MedAdventures, and Red Cross agreements to Consent Agenda
• Moved policies NO 610, NO 611, and NO 254 to Consent Agenda
• Moved three facility change orders for DHSE and DHSW expansion projects to Consent Agenda
• Scheduled purchase of PLTW computers, monitors, laptops, PA systems, network infrastructure, and security cameras for March 13 board approval
• Scheduled five prime contractor approvals for BCES and WBES for March 13 board approval
• Tabled Fair Funding Resolution for further discussion and recommendation on March 13

2024-02-14 Board Meeting Agenda

The board will receive a presentation on the proposed capital budget for the 2024-25 school year, covering routine maintenance, major purchases for curriculum and technology, and a five-year projection. The board will also hear reports from committees and consider approval of consent items including minutes, disbursements, financial reports, personnel items, and disposal of outdated materials from various schools.

• Capital budget presentation for 2024-25 school year
• Approval of disbursements for February 2024
• Approval of personnel items
• Disposal of over 100 items including books, instruments, furniture from multiple schools
• Approval of board meeting minutes from January 10, 2024

The Board approved a series of consent items, including a farm lease renewal and construction change orders for the High School West expansion. Other actions included approving a service agreement with the Devereux Foundation and a memorandum of understanding regarding overload pay.

• Renewed farm lease with Sam Acker for $27,600 annual revenue (8-0)
• Approved plumbing change order PC-003 for Jay R. Reynolds, Inc. at DHS West (8-0)
• Approved electrical change order EC-007 for The Farfield Company at DHS West (8-0)
• Approved Master Services Agreement with Devereux Foundation ($299-325/day tuition) (8-0)
• Approved MOU with Downingtown Area Education Association regarding overload pay (8-0)
• Approved 1-year extension to Lifetouch Service Agreement for 2024-2025 (8-0)
• Approved DCA Student Council and MC Adventure Club (8-0)
• Approved settlement agreement with parents of student #5166567641 (8-0)

2024-02-07 Committee of the Whole

The Committee of the Whole will discuss and recommend action on approximately $443,704 in change orders for the Downingtown High School East and West expansion projects, including work by general, electrical, mechanical, and plumbing contractors. The committee will also consider renewing a farm lease for $27,600, an MOU on teacher overload pay, and two employee release and settlement agreements.

• Renew farm lease with Sam Acker on Lionville Station Road for $27,600 annual revenue
• Six change orders totaling $286,043 to E.R. Stuebner, Inc. for DHS West expansion
• Two change orders totaling $46,833 to Gordon H. Baver for DHS East expansion
• Three change orders totaling $45,229 to Cedar Electric for DHS East expansion
• Two change orders totaling $42,938 to Myco Mechanical for DHS West expansion

The Committee of the Whole unanimously approved the January 3, 2024 meeting notes. Several consent items regarding leases, personnel, and curriculum were moved forward for full board approval. Other action items, including technology purchases and construction change orders, were scheduled for a vote on February 14, 2024.

• Approved January 3, 2024 Committee of the Whole notes (unanimous voice vote)
• Moved farm lease renewal with Sam Acker to Consent Agenda
• Moved change orders for Jay R. Reynolds, PC and The Farfield Company to Consent Agenda
• Moved personnel items, field trips, and service agreements to Consent Agenda
• Scheduled purchase of high school, elementary, and middle school devices for Feb 14 vote
• Scheduled bid approval to re-cable Bradford Heights for Feb 14 vote
• Scheduled construction change orders for Gordon H. Baver, Cedar Electric, E.R. Stuebner, Inc., and Myco Mechanical for Feb 14 vote
• Tabled action on Fair Funding resolution for member review

2024-01-10 Board Meeting Agenda

The Downingtown Area Board of Education will consider approving a K-12 math resource pilot as part of curriculum review. Other consent items include personnel changes, field trips, and disposal of outdated library books and instruments. The board will also receive updates on enrollment, student well-being, and elementary school facilities at Beaver Creek and West Bradford.

• Approval of K-12 math resources for pilot programs across all grades
• Approval of personnel items with fiscal impact
• Field trips: Grade 4 to Legoland and high school drumline competition in Richmond
• Reallocation, sale, or disposal of 40-year-old library books and broken instruments
• Presentation on Beaver Creek and West Bradford Elementary School facilities by Gilbert Architects

The Board approved a series of consent items including personnel changes, financial reports, and facility change orders for high school expansions. The meeting also included presentations on student well-being and the success of middle school esports teams.

• Approved minutes from Dec 6 and Dec 15, 2023 (9-0)
• Approved K-12 Math Resource Pilot (9-0)
• Approved professional development agreement with Solution Tree for standards-based grading (9-0)
• Approved contract with Ruby Bridges Foundation for February 2024 assemblies (9-0)
• Approved program audit of English Language Development by SupportEd (9-0)
• Approved renewal of farm lease with Bill Plank for $2,354 annual revenue (9-0)
• Approved no-cost Change Order MC-004 to Myco Mechanical for DHSW project (9-0)
• Approved Change Order PC-002 to Jay R. Reynolds, Inc. for DHSW project (9-0)

2024-01-03 Committee of the Whole

The Downingtown Area School District Committee of the Whole will discuss and consider multiple items, including a presentation on Beaver Creek and West Bradford Elementary Schools by Gilbert Architects and approval of K-12 math pilot resources for second-semester piloting. Personnel items include a contract with Aveanna for substitute nurses and paraprofessionals, a retirement incentive, and a memorandum of understanding with the teachers' union. The board will also consider consent items such as field trips, library book disposal, and various contracts including a $6,250 special education settlement and a $19,500 professional development agreement.

• Presentation on Beaver Creek and West Bradford Elementary School renovations by Gilbert Architects
• Approval of K-12 math pilot resources: iReady, HMH Into Math, or McGraw-Hill Reveal for K-8; Savvas enVision and McGraw-Hill Reveal for 9-12
• Agreement with Aveanna for substitute nurses at $75/hour and paraprofessionals at $35.50/hour through June 30, 2024
• Settlement agreement with parents of a special education student for $6,250
• Tax exemption request for 126 Wallace Avenue, $28,673.33

The Committee of the Whole approved the November 1, 2023 minutes and moved several consent items regarding personnel, curriculum, and facilities to the full board for final approval. The committee also reviewed renovation plans for West Bradford and Beaver Creek Elementary Schools and discussed K-12 math pilot resources.

• Approved November 1, 2023 Committee of the Whole minutes (unanimous voice vote)
• Moved personnel items to Consent Agenda for full board approval
• Moved K-12 math pilot resources, field trips, and training agreements to Consent Agenda for full board approval
• Moved student activity clubs and a budget transfer to Consent Agenda for full board approval
• Moved farm lease renewal and three project change orders to Consent Agenda for full board approval
• Moved 2024-2025 District Calendar to Consent Agenda for full board approval
• Tabled MOU DAEA to the February 2024 Committee of the Whole
• Scheduled school start time changes and tax exemption status for two properties for January 10 board approval