Downingtown Area School District public meetings in 2025

2025-12-05 Board Meeting Agenda

The Downingtown Area School Board will meet to consider consent items and a superintendent's enrollment report. A new policy on nonschool-sponsored student groups and revisions to curriculum policy are up for approval. The student achievement report will be postponed to the January meeting.

• New Policy 122.1 allows nonschool-sponsored student groups to meet on school premises during noninstructional time
• Policy 105 revised to include Special Instruction/Observances in curriculum development
• Approval of personnel items with fiscal impact from the General Fund
• Renewal of agreement with Lionville Community YMCAGB for pool use for Swim/Dive practice
• Approval of field trips including German class to University of Dayton and world language to Penn State

The Downingtown Area School District board unanimously approved the November 12, 2025 meeting minutes, disbursements, financial reports, and personnel items. It also adopted Policy 105 for curriculum development, renewal agreements for pool use and student pictures, and budget transfers. In addition, the board approved a series of change orders for the Beaver Creek and West Bradford elementary school expansion projects. All motions carried with unanimous support from the nine board members.

• Approved meeting minutes (Nov 12, 2025) – motion carries unanimous
• Approved disbursements – motion carries unanimous
• Approved financial reports – motion carries unanimous
• Approved Policy 105 Curriculum Development – motion carries unanimous
• Approved renewal agreement with Lionville Community YMCAGB for pool use – motion carries unanimous
• Approved renewal agreement with Lifetouch for student pictures – motion carries unanimous
• Approved multiple change orders for Beaver Creek Elementary School expansion (GC-13, GC-14, EC-11, EC-13) – motion carries unanimous
• Approved multiple change orders for West Bradford Elementary School expansion (GC-07, GC-08, GC-10, GC-09, PC-03) – motion carries unanimous

2025-11-24 Committee of the Whole

The board will hear the 2024-25 audit results showing a $1.8M general fund deficit and a capital projects fund balance of $22.3M, largely tied to school construction. An update on the 2025-26 state budget notes an additional $558,947 in subsidies for the district. The proposed 2026-27 calendar is presented for 30-day review with board action expected in January. Several consent items are up for approval, including a $125,000 fiber optic cable upgrade contract.

• 2024-25 audit: general fund deficit of $1,838,110; capital projects fund balance $22,255,408
• State budget update: $558,947 more in subsidies than originally budgeted, plus $250,000 in safety grants
• Proposed 2026-2027 school calendar with 11-day winter break and full week spring recess
• Approval to contract LAN Connect for $125,000 internal fiber optic cable upgrade
• New Policy 122.1 on nonschool-sponsored student groups for 30-day review

The Board unanimously approved the November 5, 2025, Committee of the Whole Minutes. Discussions included the 2024-2025 audited financial results and a projected increase in state subsidies for the 2025-26 budget. A proposed 2026-2027 district calendar was presented for a 30-day review.

• Approved November 5, 2025, Committee of the Whole Minutes (unanimous voice vote)
• Moved personnel items to Consent Agenda
• Moved employee 24149 release and settlement to Consent Agenda
• Moved field trips to Consent Agenda
• Moved reallocation, sale and disposal to Consent Agenda
• Moved programs of study to Consent Agenda
• Moved Policy 105 to Consent Agenda
• Moved Policy 122.1 to Consent Agenda

2025-11-12 Board Meeting Agenda

The board will discuss results of a community survey on the 2026-2027 school calendar and receive an update on SNAP benefits and food insecurity resources. They will also vote on consent items including approval of minutes, disbursements, and financial reports.

• Discussion of 2026-2027 calendar survey with 3,635 responses, showing preferences for late-August start and week-long spring break
• Update on SNAP benefits: nearly 2,000 DASD students qualify as economically disadvantaged; letter sent to families about resources
• Recognition of Veterans Day activities and state tennis doubles champions Brianna Litvan and Maya Shankar
• Approval of consent agenda: October 8 and November 5 board minutes, disbursements, and financial reports
• Student representatives report from Shahira Alim (DHSE), Hanaa Saleem (STEM), Meghnaa Sathyanarayana (DHSW)

The board approved a consent agenda including minutes, disbursements, financial reports, personnel items, policies, field trips, a contract with Vector Solutions, and student activity clubs. The board also received reports on student life, wellness, and the state budget.

• Approved October 8 and November 5, 2025 board meeting minutes (9-0)
• Approved disbursements (9-0)
• Approved financial reports (9-0)
• Approved personnel items (9-0)
• Approved Policy 102 Academic Standards (9-0)
• Approved Policy 122 Extracurricular Activities (9-0)
• Approved Policy 123 Interscholastic Athletics (9-0)
• Approved Policy 918 Title I Parent and Family Engagement (9-0)

2025-11-05 Special Board Meeting

The Downingtown Area School Board approved a new collective bargaining agreement with the Downingtown Area Education Association (DAEA) effective September 1, 2025 through August 31, 2030. The vote was 7-1 with one abstention. The special meeting also included procedural items such as public input and visitor comments.

• Approval of DAEA Collective Bargaining Agreement (2025–2030)
• Vote: 7 yea (Bertone, Blust, Ghrayeb, Houghton, Miller, Ross, Strobridge), 1 nay (Gurthy), 1 abstain (Wisdom)

The board approved a collective bargaining agreement between the district and the teachers' union, effective September 1, 2025, through August 31, 2030. The motion carried with eight 'yea' votes and one 'nay' vote.

• Approved DAEA Collective Bargaining Agreement (8-1)
• Adjourned meeting at 6:55 p.m.

2025-11-05 Committee of the Whole

The Downingtown Area School District Committee of the Whole will discuss calendar survey feedback and a SNAP benefits update. Key action items include approval of two special education settlement agreements totaling $177,498.50, renewal of Dr. Caroline Duda's HR director contract through 2031, and a $53,000 one-to-one aide service agreement with Vanguard. The board will also vote on policy updates for academic standards, extracurricular activities, athletics, and Title I parent engagement.

• Approval of settlement agreements for two DASD students: $108,248.50 and $69,250 (unbudgeted, Special Education)
• Renewal of Dr. Caroline Duda as Director of Human Resources for five years (2026-2031)
• Discussion of 2026-2027 academic calendar based on survey with 3,635 responses
• Approval of $53,000 one-to-one aide service agreement with Vanguard for a DASD student
• Policy updates to Academic Standards (102), Extracurricular Activities (122), Interscholastic Athletics (123), and Title I Parent Engagement (918)

The Board unanimously approved the September 30, 2025, meeting minutes. Various personnel, curriculum, policy, finance, and facilities items were moved to the consent agenda for full board approval on November 12, 2025.

• Approved September 30, 2025, Committee of the Whole minutes (unanimous voice vote)

2025-10-08 Board Meeting Agenda

The board will discuss the 2025-2026 state budget (not yet finalized) — state funding accounts for about $69.5 million, or 23% of the district budget. The district can maintain operations through February 2026 using reserves and local revenue. Also up for discussion is a reimbursement resolution for Beaver Creek and West Bradford elementary school projects to preserve the ability to repay capital reserves with future bond proceeds. The board will also review a proposed survey on community preferences for a full-week spring break in the 2026-2027 academic calendar.

• State budget impasse: $69.5 million in state funding not finalized; district can operate through Feb 2026
• Reimbursement resolution for Beaver Creek and West Bradford elementary projects
• Proposed community survey on whether to adopt a full-week spring break annually
• Recognition of 32 National Merit Semifinalists and 57 commended students
• Lionville Elementary School named a Blue Ribbon School by Pennsylvania Department of Education

The Board approved several consent items including financial reports, personnel items, and various educational contracts. The board also approved a $11,400 agreement for ACA reporting and a new legal engagement for real estate appeal cases.

• Approved September 10, 2025 meeting minutes (9-0)
• Approved $11,400 renewal agreement with Conrad Siegel for ACA reporting (9-0)
• Approved legal engagement with Wistler Pearlstine for real estate appeal cases (9-0)
• Approved CCIU Marketplace Contract for Fundations professional development (9-0)
• Approved CCIU Title 1 and Title II Non Public Services Contracts (9-0)
• Approved Camphill School Enrollment Contract 25-26 for one student (9-0)
• Approved student activity clubs for DHSW, DHSE, and STEM Class of 2029 (9-0)
• Approved contract with Bevin Lustman for psychoeducational evaluations (9-0)

2025-09-30 Committee of the Whole

The board will discuss a reimbursement resolution for expenditures related to Beaver Creek and West Bradford elementary school projects, allowing the district to repay capital reserves from a future bond issue. They will also review the district calendar policy, including start/end dates, holidays, and snow make-up days. Several consent items are on the agenda for approval, including a $11,400 ACA reporting agreement, field trips, and a $5,500 professional development contract.

• Reimbursement resolution for Beaver Creek and West Bradford elementary school projects
• Calendar policy discussion on start/end dates, holidays, and snow make-up days
• $11,400 renewal agreement with Conrad Siegel for ACA reporting
• $5,500 contract with CCIU for Fundations professional development
• Food services agreement with Vanguard Group for $1,260

2025-09-10 Board Meeting Agenda

The Downingtown Area Board of Education will receive reports on enrollment, state budget updates, and student representatives, then discuss the 2025-26 district initiatives. These initiatives cover curriculum updates, AI guidance, mental health screening, and facilities projects. No action items are scheduled for a vote.

• Discussion of 2025-26 district initiatives including new K-12 math curriculum, new ELA for grades 6-8, and financial literacy curriculum
• Enrollment report for 2025-26 (3rd and 10th day counts)
• Update on Pennsylvania state budget
• Recognition of teachers: Mary Elvin as finalist for Presidential Awards in STEM, Charlene Bigelow as PSMLA Teacher of the Year
• Student Life committee schedule covering cell phone policy, mental health, AI, and belongingness toolkit

2025-09-03 Committee of the Whole

The Committee of the Whole will discuss the 2025-2026 district initiatives covering student learning, school climate, strategic plan, facilities, and fiscal stewardship. The board will also review a release and settlement with the teachers association and consent items including a $2,800 truancy intervention program contract and surplus items. No votes are taken at this meeting; action items are scheduled for the September 10 board meeting.

• Discussion of 2025-2026 district initiatives (new math curriculum K-12, pioneer ELA curriculum grades 6-8, AI guidance, MTSS, full-day kindergarten)
• Release and settlement agreement with Downingtown Area Education Association for Employee ID 19843
• Approval of $2,800 contract with The Academy for Why Try truancy intervention pilot program
• Surplus of textbooks, furniture, and equipment from multiple schools
• Enrollment report for 2025-2026 (3rd day enrollment data)

The Board reviewed 2025-2026 District Initiatives tied to four strategic goals. Several personnel, curriculum, and policy items were moved to the Consent Agenda for full board approval on September 10, 2025.

• Approved August 6, 2025, meeting minutes (unanimous voice vote)
• Moved personnel and release/settlement items to Consent Agenda
• Moved reallocation, sale, disposal, Academy services, Bayada Home Health Care, and KenCrest agreements to Consent Agenda
• Moved Policy 626, Policy 626.1, and Policy 827 to Consent Agenda
• Moved bus drivers and routes to Consent Agenda

2025-08-13 Board Meeting Agenda

The Board discussed elementary enrollment increases and the status of school facilities before the start of the school year. Members also reviewed potential state funding increases and federal Title funding for professional development and ESL services.

• Hired 15.5 FTEs to support 839 students enrolled in full-day kindergarten
• Reported Beaver Creek gymnasium completion is on track for mid-September
• Potential $500,000 increase in state adequacy funding for K-12 education
• Expected $256,368 in federal Title funding for professional development and ESL
• Approved $17,201.48 renewal for Pick Up Patrol student dismissal software

The Board approved several consent items including personnel dismissals, software renewals for student dismissal and curriculum, and a tax exoneration for a parcel acquired by Chester County. Additionally, the Board authorized a tuition agreement with The Timothy School and a data backup service renewal.

• Approved dismissal of employment for Helen Coladonato, James May, and David Shuler (7-0)
• Approved $2,274.71 tax exoneration for parcel 40-04-0015.0100 (7-0)
• Approved renewal of Pick-Up Patrol software for K-8 schools (7-0)
• Approved tuition agreement with The Timothy School for one student (7-0)
• Approved renewal of IXL software for Grades 7-10 ELA (7-0)
• Approved two-year immutable data backup service via ChescoNet (7-0)
• Approved contract with Lori Vanderbilt, LLC for Wilson reading services (7-0)
• Approved donation of 10 American Flags from State Rep. Danielle Otten (7-0)

2025-08-06 Committee of the Whole

The Downingtown Area School District Board will discuss the 2025-2026 budget status, noting uncertain state funding but potential additional $500,000 if state budget is finalized. The board will also consider action items including personnel dismissals, special education settlement agreements, and software contract renewals. Policy updates on federal fiscal compliance and conflict of interest will be discussed.

• Budget update: potential $500,000 additional state funding and $256,368 in federal Title funds
• Approval of resolutions for dismissal of employees Helen Coladonato and James May
• Three special education settlement agreements: two for $10,000 each and one for $48,000
• Renewal of software contracts: Pick Up Patrol ($17,201.48), IXL ($39,900), Everway ($21,819.60), Pro-Ed ($16,000)
• Policy updates on federal fiscal compliance (Policy 626), travel reimbursement (Policy 626.1), and conflict of interest (Policy 827)

The Committee of the Whole unanimously approved the May 28, 2025, meeting minutes. The committee moved numerous personnel, curriculum, finance, and facilities items forward to the full board's consent agenda for final approval. Administration provided updates on state and federal funding and upcoming school start dates.

• Approved May 28, 2025, Committee of the Whole minutes (unanimous voice vote)
• Moved personnel items and dismissal resolutions to full board consent agenda
• Moved Pick Up Patrol renewal and various curriculum licenses to full board consent agenda
• Moved district depositories and 2025-2026 school tax exoneration to full board consent agenda
• Moved CliftonLarsonAllen, LLP auditing services to full board consent agenda
• Moved donation of American Flags to full board consent agenda
• Tabled approval of APC renewal, Marsh Creek dishwasher, and LES VAV Box replacements to August 13 board meeting
• Tabled approval of BCES Project change order to August 13 board meeting

2025-07-09 Board Meeting Agenda

The board will hear a budget status update noting potential federal funding cuts from the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, which could reduce $2.16 million in Medicaid reimbursements, and a possible loss of $256,368 in Title funding. Other reports include facilities progress, full-day kindergarten enrollment reaching 793 students (up 85 from last year), and approval of consent items including financial reports, personnel, and a vaccine pharmacy agreement.

• Budget update warns of possible Medicaid cuts of $2.16 million and Title funding loss of $256,368 due to federal actions
• Full-day kindergarten enrollment at 793 students, an increase of 85 from the prior year
• Approval of 2025-2026 Vaccine Pharmacy Services Agreement with Albertsons Companies for employee vaccines
• Approval of surplus disposal of educational materials and equipment from multiple schools
• Facilities update on preparations for full-day kindergarten classrooms and progress at Beaver Creek and West Bradford elementary schools

The Board approved a series of consent items including educational software licenses, personnel items, and facility maintenance. Key approvals included a vaccine pharmacy agreement with Albertsons Companies and construction change orders for the West Bradford Elementary School expansion project.

• Approved 2025-2026 Vaccine Pharmacy Services Agreement with Albertsons Companies (6-0)
• Approved purchase of Membean licenses for grades 9 and 10 ELA (6-0)
• Approved purchase of Typing Club for grades 1-5 (6-0)
• Approved 3-year maintenance agreement with Powersmith LLC for fitness facilities (6-0)
• Approved renewal of Carnegie Learning online textbooks for grades 6-12 (6-0)
• Approved purchase of replacement pug mills, stands, and kilns (6-0)
• Approved Change Order EC-06 for S&S Electrical Services on WBES project (6-0)
• Approved Change Order FS-01 for 11400 LLC on WBES project (6-0)

2025-06-11 Board Meeting Agenda

The Downingtown Area School District Board of Education will consider and is expected to approve a consent agenda that includes the renewal of the Brandywine Virtual Academy (BVA) agreement with the Chester County Intermediate Unit for K-12 online services, personnel appointments, and a fee increase for unemployment tax processing. The board will also hear reports on enrollment and a strategic plan update.

• Renewal of BVA agreement with CCIU for K-12 online services for up to 35 students for the 2025-26 school year
• Approval of a 2.99% fee increase with Interstate Tax Service (ITS), raising the monthly fee to $461.20
• Appointment of Michael DeAngelis as primary voting delegate and Bryan Howett as alternate for the Chester County Tax Collection Committee
• Approval of field trips: DEHS to Costa Rica (June 2026) and DWHS to Iceland (March 2027)
• Reallocation, sale, or disposal of old library books, textbooks, Osmo kits, 3D printers, and filing cabinets from multiple buildings

The Board approved the appointment of a School Board Treasurer and tax collection delegates. Several curriculum renewals and university partnerships were approved via consent agenda. The Board also authorized a fee increase for unemployment compensation processing services.

• Appointed Bryan Howett as School Board Treasurer for 2025-2026 (9-0)
• Appointed Michael DeAngelis and Bryan Howett as tax collection delegates (9-0)
• Approved fee increase for Interstate Tax Service, Inc. to $461.20 per month (9-0)
• Approved renewal of BVA Agreement (9-0)
• Approved student teacher placement agreement with St. Joe's University (9-0)
• Approved post-secondary data agreement with National Student Clearinghouse (9-0)
• Approved leadership programming MOU with University of Delaware (9-0)
• Approved 2025-2026 digital reading licenses contract with Houghton Mifflin Harcourt (9-0)

2025-05-28 Committee of the Whole

The Downingtown Area School District Committee of the Whole will discuss and recommend approval of multiple staffing contract renewals, a technology device fee discussion, and consent items for a future board meeting. No final votes are taken at this meeting; actions are proposed for the June 11 board meeting.

• Discussion of student technology device insurance fees
• Renewal of SOS Group staffing contract at 30% markup over provided rate, July 2025–June 2027
• Renewal of ProCare Therapy staffing: $43.46/hr for paraprofessionals, $47.50/hr for behavior technicians
• Renewal of GHR Healthcare with rates: paraprofessionals $35/hr, RN $62.50/hr, PT/OT $87.50/hr, SLP $92.50/hr, psychologist $125/hr
• Renewal of Sun Life stop loss insurance at $6.80/employee per month and $32.20/employee-plus-dependent per month

The Committee of the Whole unanimously approved the May 7, 2025, meeting minutes. Numerous personnel, curriculum, finance, and facilities items were moved forward to the full board's consent agenda for approval. Several other action items were scheduled for full board approval on June 11, 2025.

• Approved May 7, 2025, Committee of the Whole minutes (unanimous voice vote)
• Moved personnel items, district delegate CCTCC, and school board treasurer to full board consent agenda
• Moved reallocation, sale and disposal, and field trips to full board consent agenda
• Moved BVA agreement renewal and St. Joe's University affiliation to full board consent agenda
• Moved Learning A to Z and Aimsweb Plus renewals to full board consent agenda
• Moved DASD Rebate program and budget transfers to full board consent agenda
• Moved donations for Gaga Pits at SMES and remedial concrete work at DMS to full board consent agenda
• Moved Downingtown Music Parents Association Agreement to full board consent agenda

2025-05-14 Board Meeting Agenda

The Board of Education will discuss a budget update from the May 7 Committee of the Whole report and review an enrollment report. The meeting includes a presentation to honor 37 retiring employees and recognize student achievements in technology and STEM. The board is also scheduled to approve meeting minutes, disbursements, and financial reports.

• Budget update presentation from May 7 Committee of the Whole
• Memorandum of Appreciation for 37 retiring employees
• Approval of April 9, 2025 board meeting minutes
• Approval of disbursements and financial reports
• Review of the May 1, 2025 Board Enrollment Report

The Board approved several curriculum documents for K-12 mathematics and grades 9-12 business, computer science, biology, and chemistry. Other approved actions included personnel items, financial disbursements, and various service agreements for the 2025-2026 school year.

• Approved K-12 Mathematics curriculum documents (7-0)
• Approved Grades 9-12 Business & Computer Science curriculum documents (7-0)
• Approved STEM Grade 10 Pre-Diploma Biology and Chemistry curriculum documents (7-0)
• Approved Devereux Service Agreement and PBIS Contract for 2025-2026 (7-0)
• Approved MOU with Delaware County Community College for STEM Allied Health Summer Practicum (7-0)
• Approved contract with NCS Pearson for Universal Behavior Screener (7-0)
• Approved sale of surplus 2002 Ford F350 (7-0)
• Approved donation of a baseball scoreboard for DHSW Varsity Baseball Field (7-0)

2025-05-07 Committee of the Whole

The Committee of the Whole will hear a final budget update for 2025-2026 that is balanced after reducing a $900,000 deficit to $0. The proposed 3.9% millage increase is offset by a 13.1% rise in the Homestead Tax Credit, resulting in a net 3.38% tax impact and an average annual increase of about $183. The board will also discuss consent items including personnel, curriculum documents, and several contracts.

• Approval of SwiftMD telemedicine agreement renewal for employees at $3.51 per employee per month
• Purchase of iPads with protective cases for special needs students for $42,500
• Richard J Caron Foundation contract for a high school behavioral health liaison for $80,000
• Approval of K-12 mathematics and 9-12 business/computer science curriculum documents
• Disposal of surplus 2002 Ford F350 vehicle via auction due to rusted frame

The Committee of the Whole reviewed a balanced 2025-2026 budget proposal and several administrative items. Most items were moved to the consent agenda or scheduled for full board approval on May 14, 2025. The board unanimously approved the April 2, 2025 meeting minutes.

• Approved April 2, 2025 Committee of the Whole minutes (unanimous)
• Moved personnel items to Consent Agenda for full board approval
• Moved field trips, Devereux agreements, and NCS Pearson contract to Consent Agenda
• Moved K-12 curriculum documents for Math, Business, Computer Science, Biology, and Chemistry to Consent Agenda
• Moved surplus item disposal, a donation, and a Student Activity Club to Consent Agenda
• Moved equipment removal, a baseball scoreboard donation, and a solar energy kit donation to Consent Agenda
• Moved MTD Construction change order for WB Window Replacements to Consent Agenda

2025-04-09 Board Meeting Agenda

The Board will review a refined 2025-2026 proposed budget that reduces the projected deficit to $900,000. Additionally, officials will present an update regarding well water testing at Brandywine Wallace Elementary School.

• Refined 2025-2026 proposed budget reducing deficit from $2,100,000 to $900,000
• Brandywine Wallace Elementary School well water testing and status update
• Rescinding of 2024 Title IX Regulations for policies 103, 103.1, and 104
• Removal of various items from school buildings for reallocation, sale, or disposal

The Board approved several insurance renewals for employee benefits, including medical, vision, and prescription coverage. A series of consent items were approved, including financial reports, personnel items, and the sale of surplus vehicles. Administration also presented a budget update showing a reduced proposed deficit of $900,000.

• Approved 3-year CVS prescription insurance renewal (9-0)
• Approved 2-year Vision Benefit of America renewal (9-0)
• Approved Independence Blue Cross medical administrative fee renewal (9-0)
• Approved sale of surplus vehicles: Ford F-250, Ford Escape, GMC Savana, Chevy Express, Chevy Malibu (9-0)
• Approved PBIS Apps - SWIS License Quote for behavioral data analysis (9-0)
• Approved settlement agreement for Student #53975722837 (9-0)
• Approved rescinding of 2024 Title IX Regulations (9-0)
• Approved March 12, 2025 meeting minutes (9-0)

2025-04-02 Committee of the Whole

The Downingtown Area School District Committee of the Whole will discuss the 2025-2026 budget proposal with a $900,000 deficit, including staffing changes. They will also receive an update on PFAS contamination at Brandywine Wallace Elementary School, consider renewals for employee insurance contracts (CVS, Vision Benefits of America, Independence Blue Cross), and discuss rescinding recent Title IX policy amendments and eliminating the foreign exchange student policy. Several consent items are scheduled for approval at the April 9 board meeting.

• Budget proposal for 2025-2026: staffing changes reduce deficit to $900,000
• Brandywine Wallace Elementary School well water update: PFAS/PFOA testing results from PA DEP
• Renewal of three-year CVS prescription insurance agreement: $500 annual fee plus $.75 per employee per month
• Renewal of Independence Blue Cross medical administrative fee: $40.16 to $41.66 per contract per month
• Discussion on eliminating Policy 239 Foreign Exchange Students; recommendation to eliminate

The Committee of the Whole reviewed a proposed 3.9% tax increase and staffing updates for the 2025-2026 budget. Administration presented a plan to address PFAS in Brandywine Wallace Elementary School's well water. Several items were moved to the full board for approval on April 9, 2025.

• Approved March 5, 2025, Committee of the Whole minutes (unanimous)
• Moved personnel items to Consent Agenda for full board approval
• Moved reallocation, sale, and disposal of items to Consent Agenda for full board approval
• Moved field trips to Consent Agenda for full board approval
• Moved settlement agreement and release to Consent Agenda for full board approval
• Moved PBIS Apps - SWIS License Quote to Consent Agenda for full board approval
• Moved budget transfers to Consent Agenda for full board approval
• Moved disposal of surplus items to Consent Agenda for full board approval

2025-03-12 Board Meeting Agenda

The Downingtown Area School District Board will hear presentations on the 2025-2026 budget, a strategic plan dashboard, and a review of Policy 239 on foreign exchange students. The policy review offers options including eliminating the program or limiting to tuition-paying F-1 visa students. Other reports include student well-being and the Chester County Intermediate Unit budget. The consent agenda covers approval of minutes, disbursements, and financial reports.

• 2025-2026 budget presentation (no dollar amount specified)
• Policy 239 review: recommends eliminating foreign exchange program or limiting to F-1 visa students with $1,250 every-other-year certification fee
• Strategic plan dashboard introduction for year-one measures
• Student well-being update aligned with strategic plan Goal #1
• CCIU budget presentation

The Board approved a series of consent items including financial reports, personnel items, and facility projects. Administration presented a 2025-2026 budget proposal featuring a recommended 3.9% millage increase. Other approved actions included a new opioid antagonist policy and a truancy intervention program.

• Approved 2025-2026 Budget Proposal with 3.9% millage increase (9-0)
• Approved Policy 823 Opioid Antagonist (9-0)
• Approved Truancy Intervention Program by School Impact (9-0)
• Approved renewal agreement with Lancaster-Lebanon IU13 for Act 168 at $5 per applicant (9-0)
• Approved K-12 Guidance Plan (9-0)
• Approved Eagle Scout project shed at Brandywine Wallace Elementary School (9-0)
• Approved change order for S&S Electrical Services at West Bradford Elementary School (9-0)
• Approved donation of lab equipment from Eisai Inc to STEM Academy (9-0)

2025-03-05 Committee of the Whole

The Committee of the Whole will review a proposal to either eliminate Policy 239 regarding foreign exchange students or implement new restrictions on age, visa types, and enrollment. The meeting also includes a budget presentation for the CCIU and a student well-being update.

• Proposal to eliminate Policy 239 or limit foreign exchange students to F-1 visas and a maximum of two students per school
• Appointment of Bryan Howett as Director of Finance and Operations (contract 7/7/2025 - 6/30/2030)
• Renewal agreement with Lancaster-Lebanon IU13 for Act 168 compliance services at $5 per applicant
• Approval of field trips to Washington DC, Spain, Paradise Farms, and The Campus
• Disposal of surplus items including textbooks, library books, and equipment from DWHS and EW

The Committee of the Whole approved the February 5 minutes and referred Policy 239 regarding foreign exchange students back to the Policy Committee. Numerous personnel, curriculum, and facility items were moved forward to the full board for approval on March 12.

• Approved February 5, 2025, Committee of the Whole minutes (unanimous voice vote)
• Returned Policy 239 (foreign exchange students) to Policy Committee for review
• Moved renewal agreement with Lancaster-Lebanon IU13 for Act 168 to full board consent agenda
• Moved K-12 Guidance Plan final approval to full board consent agenda
• Moved Policy 823 Opioid Antagonist to full board consent agenda
• Moved budget transfers and a donation to full board consent agenda
• Moved Eagle Scout Project at BWES and three WBES/BCES change orders to full board consent agenda
• Scheduled approval of Director of Finance and Operations, Aveanna contract, transportation contract, and custodial robots for March 12

2025-02-12 Board Meeting Agenda

The Downingtown Area School Board will hear a presentation on the proposed 2025-2026 capital budget and an update on the strategic plan dashboard. The board will vote on consent items including approval of minutes, disbursements, financial reports, personnel items, a revised Policy 246 on school wellness, and curriculum items such as field trips and disposal of books/equipment.

• Proposed 2025-2026 Capital Budget presentation
• Policy 246 School Wellness revision (triennial assessment, nutrition guidelines, Smart Snacks standards)
• Approval of disbursements and financial reports (January 2025)
• Personnel items (attached file)
• Field trips: DEHS to Seven Springs Resort, Hershey Park; DWHS to Reading Terminal Market, Hershey Park; LMS to Barnes Foundation

The Board approved several consent items, including a farm lease renewal and school expansion change orders. Members also approved 6-year contracts for i-Ready K-8 math and Cengage Learning math resources. A proposed 2025-2026 Capital Budget totaling $10,486,171 was presented for review.

• Approved 6-year contract with Curriculum Associates for i-Ready K-8 math (9-0)
• Approved 6-year contract with Cengage Learning for Big Ideas Math (9-0)
• Renewed Station Road Farm lease with Sam Acker for $27,600 annually (9-0)
• Approved Policy 246 School Wellness (9-0)
• Approved change order for Hobbs & Co electrical work at BCES expansion (9-0)
• Approved change order for JBM Mechanical HVAC work at BCES expansion (9-0)
• Approved consulting contract with Cindy Kruse Consulting for Kindergarten teachers (9-0)
• Approved DHSE EMS Club as a Student Activity Club (9-0)

2025-02-05 Committee of the Whole

The Downingtown Area School District Committee of the Whole will discuss and recommend action on several curriculum contracts, including a $2.27 million six-year i-Ready math resources agreement. Other action items include a $290,400 Big Ideas Math contract, a $120,180 Pearson contract, a $68,750 Pathway School special education agreement, and a $66,000 Cartwheel Health virtual mental health services contract. The committee will also consider personnel items, field trips, a policy update on school wellness, and the sale of a district-owned AAC device.

• Approval of $2,268,765 six-year contract with Curriculum Associates for i-Ready K-8 math resources
• Approval of $290,400 six-year contract with Cengage Learning for Big Ideas Math Algebra 1, Geometry, and Algebra 2 resources
• Approval of $120,180.45 six-year contract with Pearson Education for Pre-calculus and AP Statistics resources
• Approval of $68,750 agreement with The Pathway School for special education student #2809187527
• Approval of $66,000 contract with Cartwheel Health Services for virtual mental health therapy and medication management

The Committee of the Whole approved the January 8, 2025 minutes and moved several personnel, curriculum, policy, and facilities items to the full board consent agenda. Multiple contracts and purchase requests were designated as action items for the February 12, 2025 meeting.

• Approved January 8, 2025 Committee of the Whole minutes (unanimous)
• Moved personnel items to full board consent agenda
• Moved reallocation, sale, and disposal of curriculum items to full board consent agenda
• Moved field trips to full board consent agenda
• Moved parent request to purchase district-owned AAC device to full board consent agenda
• Moved consulting contract approval to full board consent agenda
• Moved Policy 246 School Wellness to full board consent agenda
• Moved Station Road Farm Lease Renewal and BCES Expansion change orders to full board consent agenda

2025-01-15 Board Meeting Agenda

The Downingtown Area Board of Education reviewed superintendent reports on enrollment, full-day kindergarten, and construction progress at Beaver Creek and West Bradford elementary schools. The board also processed a consent agenda that included approving personnel items, updating bullying policy NO 249, and authorizing a $14,000 contract with ELPS Private Detective Agency for residency verification. All listed consent items were approved unanimously.

• Construction update for Beaver Creek and West Bradford elementary schools
• Approval of Policy NO 249 updating bullying and cyberbullying standards
• $14,000 contract with ELPS Private Detective Agency for residency verification
• Renewal of Lifetouch agreement for student pictures with no cost or price increase for parents
• Approval of personnel items and amended Cafeteria Plan documents

The Board approved a series of consent items including financial reports, personnel actions, and the K-12 Guidance Plan. Administration presented a proposed 3.9% millage increase for the 2025-2026 budget. Other approvals included a new opioid antagonist policy and an Eagle Scout project at Brandywine Wallace Elementary School.

• Approved Policy 823 Opioid Antagonist (9-0)
• Approved 2025-02-12 meeting minutes (9-0)
• Approved renewal agreement with Lancaster-Lebanon IU13 for Act 168 compliance at $5 per applicant (9-0)
• Approved K-12 Guidance Plan (9-0)
• Approved Truancy Intervention Program by School Impact (9-0)
• Approved donation of lab equipment from Eisai Inc to the STEM Academy (9-0)
• Approved Eagle Scout project to build a shed at Brandywine Wallace Elementary School (9-0)
• Approved Change Order EC-05 for S&S Electrical Services at West Bradford Elementary School (9-0)

2025-01-08 Committee of the Whole

The Downingtown Area School District Committee of the Whole will discuss and recommend action on a budget resolution certifying no real estate tax increase for 2025-26. Other major items include approval of $1.5 million in technology upgrades, a $2.85 million charter school tuition budget transfer, and special education agreements totaling over $150,000. The board also reviews updates on elementary construction projects and policies on bullying and school wellness.

• Approval to purchase Cisco wireless access points for all schools and central office for $1,039,826 over five years
• Approval to purchase Cisco network switches for $497,802 over five years
• Budget transfer of $2,850,000 from charter school reserve to tuition accounts for 2024-25
• Approval of $69,300 Royer-Greaves Regular School Year Agreement and $84,500 waiver agreement for special education students
• Approval of $14,000 contract with ELPS Private Detective Agency for residency verification

The Committee of the Whole approved the November 25, 2024 meeting minutes. Several items, including personnel, cafeteria plan documents, and a farm lease renewal, were moved to the full board consent agenda. Other items, including a budget resolution and the 2025-2026 district calendar, were scheduled for full board approval on February 15, 2025.

• Approved November 25, 2024 meeting minutes (unanimous voice vote)
• Moved personnel items to full board consent agenda
• Moved cafeteria plan documents to full board consent agenda
• Moved reallocation, sale, and disposal items to full board consent agenda
• Moved field trips to full board consent agenda
• Moved ELPS Private Investigator Agreement to full board consent agenda
• Moved NO 249 Bullying/Cyberbullying policy to full board consent agenda
• Moved farm lease renewal with Mr. Bill Plank to full board consent agenda