June 22, 2026 at 6:30 PM - Legislative Meeting
| Agenda |
|---|
|
1. Call to Order
|
|
2. Flag Salute- Mr. Beal
|
|
3. Roll Call- Mr. Beal
|
|
4. Election of Treasurer 2026-2027
|
|
4.1. Board Treasurer 2026-2027
Recommended Motion(s):
Request approval of John Shaffer as Board Treasurer for 2026-2027.
|
|
5. Acceptance of Minutes
|
|
5.1. Acceptance of Minutes- Mr. Beal
Recommended Motion(s):
Motion to accept the minutes as presented in the packet.
|
|
6. Acceptance of Agenda
|
|
6.1. Acceptance of Agenda
Recommended Motion(s):
Motion to accept the Agenda as presented
|
|
7. Vistors
Recommended Motion(s):
District Police Officer- Officer Shuba
|
|
7.1. Public Comment
Description:
We welcome members of the public to speak during the designated public comment portion of tonight’s meeting. In accordance with Board Policy 800.1, speakers are asked to:
If you would like to engage in dialogue with Board members, we encourage you to attend a Planning Committee Meeting, which is generally held on the second Monday of each month at 5:30 PM in the District Office Conference Room. Public comment is also available at the start of each Planning Meeting. Dates and agendas are posted on our district website at www.jmsd.org. The Superintendent will follow up with any individual who speaks during public comment within 24-48 hours, if requested. Please ensure your name, email address, and phone number are clearly listed on the public comment sign-in sheet to facilitate timely communication. We value your input and are committed to conducting public dialogue in an orderly and respectful manner |
|
7.2. District Police Officer- Brian Shuba
|
|
8. Administrative Reports
|
|
8.1. Superintendent: Dr.Brandon Robinson
|
|
8.2. Business Manager: Jennifer Foringer
|
|
8.3. MS/HS Principal & Assistant Superintendent - Wesley Loring
|
|
9. Executive Session
|
|
9.1. Executive Session
Description:
Board Justification - Executive Session The Board of School Directors is entering into Executive Session in accordance with the Pennsylvania Sunshine Act to discuss matters that are legally required to be held in private. Discussion topics may include personnel matters, legal issues, collective bargaining, safety, or potential litigation. Executive Sessions provide the Board an opportunity to review sensitive information with the Superintendent, solicitor, or other advisors to ensure informed and lawful decision-making. No official action will be taken during the Executive Session.
Recommended Motion(s):
Motion to enter Executive Session for the purpose of discussing personnel matters and contractual matters.
|
|
10. Financial Report
|
|
10.1. Treasurer's Report as 5/31/2026
Recommended Motion(s):
Request approval to accept the Treasurer's Report for May 2026, as presented
|
|
10.2. Payment of Bills
Recommended Motion(s):
Requested approval of payment of bills, as presented.
|
|
10.3. Solicitor's Report
|
|
11. Old Business
|
|
12. Board Committee Reports
|
|
12.1. Budget & Personnel Meeting- June 3rd, 2026
|
|
12.2. Executive Session-June 3rd, 2026
Description:
The Board of School Directors entered into Executive Session in accordance with the Pennsylvania Sunshine Act to discuss matters that are legally permitted to be held in private. The Board met in Executive Session on Monday, June 3rd, during its Budget and Personnel Meeting. Topics discussed included personnel matters. Executive Sessions provide the Board an opportunity to review sensitive and confidential information with the Superintendent, solicitor, or other advisors to ensure informed and lawful decision making. No official action was taken during the Executive Session and any action resulting from these discussions will be considered at a public meeting |
|
12.3. Planning Meeting- June 15th, 2026
|
|
12.4. Executive Session-June 15th, 2026
Description:
The Board of School Directors entered into Executive Session in accordance with the Pennsylvania Sunshine Act to discuss matters that are legally permitted to be held in private. The Board met in Executive Session on Monday, June 15th, during its regularly scheduled Planning Meeting. Topics discussed included personnel matters and the required school safety report. Executive Sessions provide the Board an opportunity to review sensitive and confidential information with the Superintendent, solicitor, or other advisors to ensure informed and lawful decision making. No official action was taken during the Executive Session and any action resulting from these discussions will be considered at a public meeting |
|
12.5. JOC- June 29th, 2026
|
|
13. General Authorizations: Board Agreements, Contracts, Policies, and Proposals
|
|
13.1. General Fund Budget 2026-2027
Recommended Motion(s):
Request approval to accept the general fund budget for the 2026-2027 school year with revenues and expenditures in the amount of $16,940,000 which represents a zero mill increase.
|
|
13.2. Athletic Fund Budget 2026-2027
Recommended Motion(s):
Request approval to accept an Athletic Fund budget for the 2026-2027 school year with revenues and expenditures in the amount of $30,000.
|
|
13.3. Cafeteria Fund Budget 2026-2027
Recommended Motion(s):
Request approval to accept a Cafeteria Fund budget for the 2026-2027 school year with revenues and expenditures in the amount of $571,100.
|
|
13.4. Real Estate Tax
Recommended Motion(s):
Request approval to levy the Real Estate Tax at 29.00 mills for the 2026-2027 school year, which represents a zero mill increase.
|
|
13.5. Earned Income Tax 1%
Recommended Motion(s):
Request approval to readopt a 1% Earned Income Tax under Act 511 of the Local Tax Enabling Act.
|
|
13.6. Per Capita
Recommended Motion(s):
Request approval to readopt a $5.00 Per Capita Tax under Act 511 of the Local Tax Enabling Act.
|
|
13.7. Local Services Tax
Recommended Motion(s):
Request approval to readopt a $52.00 Local Services Tax (formerly the Occupational Privilege Tax).
|
|
13.8. Realty Transfer Tax
Recommended Motion(s):
Request approval to readopt a 1% Realty Transfer Tax under Act 511 of the Local Tax Enabling Act.
|
|
13.9. Homestead and Farmstead
Recommended Motion(s):
Request approval of the 2026 Homestead and Farmstead Exclusion Resolution which includes a $447.83 real estate reduction per approved Homestead and Farmstead parcel as provided by the County Assessment Office. (See Attached)
Attachments:
()
|
|
13.10. Cafeteria Transfer
Recommended Motion(s):
Request approval to transfer $15,000 from the general fund to the cafeteria fund
|
|
13.11. Expulsion Agreement: Student A
Description:
Following a disciplinary review conducted by district administration regarding a violation of the Jefferson-Morgan School District Code of Conduct, the student and family elected to waive their right to a formal expulsion hearing before the Board of School Directors. As part of this agreement, the student will be placed in an alternative educational setting and the district will periodically review the student's progress, behavior, and compliance with the established conditions to determine future educational placement options. This recommendation promotes accountability, supports student and staff safety, and ensures the continuation of educational services in accordance with applicable laws and regulations.
Recommended Motion(s):
Request approval of Student A's expulsion agreement as attached
|
|
13.12. Expulsion Agreement: Student B
Description:
Following a disciplinary review conducted by district administration regarding a violation of the Jefferson-Morgan School District Code of Conduct, the student and family elected to waive their right to a formal expulsion hearing before the Board of School Directors. As part of this agreement, the student will be placed in an alternative educational setting and the district will periodically review the student's progress, behavior, and compliance with the established conditions to determine future educational placement options. This recommendation promotes accountability, supports student and staff safety, and ensures the continuation of educational services in accordance with applicable laws and regulations.
Recommended Motion(s):
Request approval of Student B's expulsion agreement as attached
|
|
13.13. June 2026 PSBA Recommended Policy Updates: First Reading
Description:
The Pennsylvania School Boards Association (PSBA) periodically reviews and recommends policy updates to ensure school districts remain aligned with current laws, regulations, and best practices. The policies presented for consideration reflect these recommended updates and are intended to maintain compliance, improve operational clarity, and support the effective governance of the district.
Recommended Motion(s):
Request approval of the first reading of the following policies: 716-
Integrated Pest Management
Attachments:
()
|
|
13.14. CEP Program 2026-2027
Description:
The administration is recommending that the Jefferson-Morgan School District apply for participation in the Community Eligibility Provision (CEP) Program for the 2026-2027 school year. CEP allows eligible districts to provide breakfast and lunch to all students at no cost to families while reducing administrative requirements associated with meal applications. Approval of this application will allow the district to determine eligibility and evaluate participation for the upcoming school year.
Recommended Motion(s):
Request approval to apply for the Community Eligibility Program for free breakfast and lunch for students in the district for the 2026-2027 school year.
|
|
13.15. July 2025 Payment of Bills
Description:
Due to the Board not holding a regular meeting in July, approval is requested to allow the business office to pay necessary district bills during the month of July 2026. This ensures the timely payment of routine obligations and uninterrupted district operations.
Recommended Motion(s):
Request approval for the business office to pay the necessary bills for the month of July 2026, as budgeted.
|
|
13.16. 2026-2027 Adelphoi Educational Services
Description:
The administration recommends approval of the annual agreement with Adelphoi Education Services for the 2026-2027 school year, if needed. Adelphoi provides alternative education and emotional support programming for students whose educational needs cannot be appropriately met within the district. Approval of this agreement ensures that services are available should a student placement become necessary during the school year.
Recommended Motion(s):
Request approval to enter into an agreement for the 2026-2027 school year with Adelphoi Educational Services for alternative education placement, as needed.
|
|
13.17. Cornerstone Care School Physician and School Dentist Agreement
Description:
The administration recommends renewing Cornerstone Care as the Jefferson-Morgan School District's School Physician and appointing Cornerstone Care as the District's School Dentist for the 2026-2027 school year. Cornerstone Care will continue to provide required school and athletic physical examinations at a rate of $12.00 per physical and will provide state required dental examinations at a rate of $9.00 per examination. This recommendation follows the retirement of Dr. Williams and ensures the district continues to meet all Pennsylvania school health requirements while providing students with access to required medical and dental services through a trusted local healthcare provider.
Recommended Motion(s):
Request approval to hire Cornerstone Care as the School Physician and School Dentist for the 2026-2027 school year at a rate of $12.00 per physical and $9.00 per dental examination. (Please see attached)
Attachments:
()
|
|
14. General Authorizations: Curriculum and Instruction
|
|
14.1. Student/Parent Handbook Proposed Changes
Recommended Motion(s):
Request approval to accept the Jefferson-Morgan Elementary and Middle/High School 2026-2027 Parent/Student Handbook as presented.
|
|
15. General Authorizations: Personnel
|
|
15.1. Instructional Personnel: First Grade Posting
Recommended Motion(s):
Ratify the actions of the Superintendent to post and advertise, if needed, for a First Grade Teacher for the 2026-2027 school year.
|
|
15.2. Instructional Personnel: K-2 Learning Support Resignation
Recommended Motion(s):
Ratify the actions of the Superintendent to accept the resignation of Allison Kovach, K-2 Learning Support Teacher, effective June 5, 2026, and to post and advertise, if needed, for a K-2 Learning Support Teacher position for the 2026-2027 school year.
|
|
15.3. Instructional Personnel: K-2 Learning Support Teacher
Description:
The interview process for Special Education positions has concluded, and the administration is prepared to move forward with a recommendation for hire. Filling this vacancy will ensure continuity of services and provide the necessary support for elementary students receiving special education services during the 2026-2027 school year.
Recommended Motion(s):
Ratify the actions of the Superintendent in hiring Caitlyn Reed as the K-2 Learning Support Teacher at the Bachelor's, Step 5 salary level for the 2026-2027 school year, pending receipt of all district requirements.
|
|
15.4. Instructional Personnel: First Grade Teacher
Description:
The interview process for the First Grade position has concluded, and the administration is prepared to move forward with a recommendation for hire. Filling this vacancy will ensure continuity of instruction and maintain appropriate class sizes while providing a strong educational foundation for students during the 2026-2027 school year.
Recommended Motion(s):
Request approval to hire Emily Clites as a First Grade Teacher at the Bachelor's, Step 1 salary level for the 2026-2027 school year, pending receipt of all district requirements.
|
|
15.5. Instructional Personnel: Mentor Teachers Posting
Description:
In accordance with Pennsylvania's educator induction requirements, newly hired professional employees must be assigned a mentor teacher as part of the district's induction program. Approval of this mentor position will provide support, guidance, and professional development opportunities to assist the new K-12 Special Education Teacher during their transition into the district.
Recommended Motion(s):
Request approval to post for a teacher mentor for the K-2 Learning Support Teacher, and First Grade positions for the 2026-2027 school year.
|
|
15.6. Instruction Personnel: 5th Grade Restructure
Description:
The administration is recommending adjustments to the elementary instructional schedule. These changes are based on projected enrollment, class size considerations, student needs, and the effective utilization of district resources. Current fifth grade enrollment is projected at 51 students. Under the proposed instructional structure, which includes anticipated special education pull out services for seven students in ELA, seven students in Math, and two students in Science and Social Studies, average general education class sizes are projected to be approximately 22 students in ELA and Math and approximately 24 to 25 students in Science and Social Studies.
Recommended Motion(s):
Request approval to restructure 5th grade into two sections.
Attachments:
()
|
|
15.7. Instruction Personnel: 6th Grade Restructure
Description:
The administration is recommending adjustments to the elementary instructional schedule. These changes are based on projected enrollment, class size considerations, student needs, and the effective utilization of district resources. Current sixth grade enrollment is projected at 66 students. Under the current structure of two sections, which includes anticipated special education pull out services for thirteen students in ELA, nine students in Math, and three students in Science and Social Studies, average general education class sizes are projected to be approximately 26 students in ELA, 28 students in Math, and 31 to 32 students in Science and Social Studies. Based on these enrollment projections and instructional needs, the administration is recommending adjustments to the sixth grade instructional model.
Recommended Motion(s):
Request approval to restructure sixth grade into three sections.
Attachments:
()
|
|
15.8. Extracurricular Personnel: Rehire Athletic Director 2026-2027
Description:
In accordance with district practice and applicable agreements, extracurricular positions are appointed on a year to year basis and require annual board approval. This action ensures the district has the necessary leadership and supervision in place to support student activities and extracurricular programs during the 2026-2027 school year.
Recommended Motion(s):
Request approval to rehire Bruce Ellsworth as the Athletic Director for the 2026-27 school year, per the terms of the JMEA collective bargaining unit agreement.
|
|
15.9. Extracurricular Personnel: Rehire Associate Athletic Director-2026-2027
Description:
The Associate Athletic Director position is an as needed appointment intended to provide additional administrative support for the district's athletic programs. Responsibilities may include assisting with athletic events, attending meetings when the Athletic Director is unavailable, and providing operational support during periods of increased activity. This position is typically utilized for approximately 10 events or assignments per year and helps ensure consistent oversight and representation of the district's athletic programs when needed.
Recommended Motion(s):
Request approval to hire Scot Moore as the Associate Athletic Director for the 2026-27 school year, at $135 dollars per day (Retired Teachers Substitute Rate), as needed.
|
|
15.10. Extracurricular Personnel: Coach Resignation Varsity Baseball
Description:
A coaching resignation has been received, creating a vacancy within the athletic program. Board approval is required to formally accept the resignation and to post and advertise the position in accordance with district policy and contractual requirements. Posting the vacancy ensures a fair and transparent hiring process and allows the district to identify a qualified candidate to maintain continuity and support for our student-athletes.
Recommended Motion(s):
Request approval to accept the resignation of John Curtis as the Varsity Baseball Coach due to retirement, and to post and advertise for a Varsity Baseball Coach and one assistant coach.
|
|
15.11. Extracurricular Personnel: Rehire Spring Coaches for the 2026-2027 School Year
Description:
All athletic coaching positions in the Jefferson Morgan School District are one year appointments. Each new season requires board approval to reappoint coaching staff as part of standard district procedure and contract obligations. This annual reappointment process ensures compliance with district requirements and allows the board to formally authorize coaches for the upcoming athletic year.
Recommended Motion(s):
Request approval to rehire the following coaches for the 2026-2027 school year: Softball: Rich Rush, Head Coach; Jacob Rush, Assistant (Varsity) Coach; Chris Grainey, Assistant (Middle School), Dennis Sammel, Assistant (Middle School), Dan Rush, Volunteer Coach; Miranda Rush, Volunteer. Coach
|
|
15.12. Extracurricular Personnel: Assistant Football Coach Resignation
Description:
A coaching resignation has been received, creating a vacancy within the athletic program. Board approval is required to formally accept the resignation and to post and advertise the position in accordance with district policy and contractual requirements. Posting the vacancy ensures a fair and transparent hiring process and allows the district to identify a qualified candidate to maintain continuity and support for our student-athletes.
Recommended Motion(s):
Request approval to accept the resignation of Tom Corazzi as a football assistant coach, and to post and advertise if needed for an assistant football coach.
|
|
15.13. Extracurricular Personnel: Football Assistant Coach Hire
Description:
To ensure the safety, organization, and effectiveness of our athletic programs, the Jefferson-Morgan School District requires that all coaching staff—whether paid or volunteer—be formally requested by the head coach of the respective sport and approved by the School Board. Volunteer coaches are valuable contributors to our programs; however, each must have a clearly defined role established by the head coach prior to board consideration. In addition, all volunteers must submit the required volunteer clearances before participating in any coaching activities. Volunteers must also complete all trainings and courses required for athletic coaches as outlined by the Pennsylvania Interscholastic Athletic Association (PIAA). All coaching staff, both paid and volunteer, must be recommended by the varsity head coach of the program prior to board approval. This process helps maintain the integrity of our programs and supports a safe, well-supervised environment for all student-athletes.
Recommended Motion(s):
Request approval to hire Zachary Gamble as an Assistant Football Coach (HS) for the 2026-2027 season, pending receipt of all necessary documents.
|
|
15.14. Extracurricular Personnel: Weight Room Volunteer
Description:
Anyone wishing to volunteer to open the weight room must submit a coaching application, provide all required volunteer clearances, and include the proposed days and times they plan to operate the facility outside of normal school hours. This ensures proper approval, supervision, and compliance with district procedures for all volunteer activities
Recommended Motion(s):
Request approval to ratify the actions of the superintendent in adding Jarrell Rodriguez as a volunteer for the Weight Room. All requirements have been met.
|
|
15.15. Administrative Personnel: Additional Duties Stipends
Description:
Due to the decision to leave the Assistant Principal position unfilled for the 2026-2027 school year, additional administrative responsibilities will be reassigned among existing district administrators. These one time stipends recognize the increased workload and duties assumed by staff members to ensure the continued operation and support of district programs and services.
Recommended Motion(s):
Request approval for the following one-time stipends to be awarded for additional duties assigned by the Superintendent due to the elimination of the Assistant Principal position for the 2026-2027 school year, as budgeted: Sara Bates (Director of Student Services/Assistant Principal) - $7,000, Wesley Loring (Middle/High School Principal) - $5,000, Brandon Robinson (Superintendent) - $5,000, and Samuel Silbaugh (Elementary Principal) - $3,000, as budgeted.
|
|
15.16. Summer Workers 2026
Description:
Approval of summer workers is necessary to support essential district operations during the summer months, including building cleaning and Extended School Year (ESY) programming. These positions ensure facilities are prepared for the upcoming school year and that required student services are provided in compliance with educational plans.
Recommended Motion(s):
Request approval to ratify the actions of the Superintendent in adding Nadean Phillips (ESY PCA) and Caitlyn Reed (ESY PCA) as a summer worker at the substitute support staff summer rate.
|
|
15.17. Approval of Extended Assignment Substitute Teacher Daily Rate
Description:
The administration recommends approval of a new Extended Substitute Assignment category and daily rate of $150 per day for assignments exceeding 14 consecutive school days that require lesson planning, grading, and instructional responsibilities. These assignments involve significantly greater responsibilities than traditional day to day substitute coverage and are necessary to ensure continuity of instruction during extended staff absences. The proposed rate will assist the district in attracting and retaining qualified substitute teachers while appropriately compensating individuals serving in these expanded instructional roles.
Recommended Motion(s):
Request approval to establish the Extended Assignment Substitute Teachers category for assignments exceeding 14 consecutive school days that require instructional responsibilities beyond traditional day to day substitute coverage. Approved assignments will be compensated at the Board approved daily rate of $150 per day.
Attachments:
()
|
|
15.18. Reappointment of Superintendent -Dr. Brandon W. Robinson
Description:
Dr. Robinson's current Contract for Employment as District Superintendent expires on June 30, 2027. The Board of School Directors recommends his reappointment for an additional five-year term to provide continuity of leadership and support the continued implementation of the District's educational and operational goals. The new Contract for Employment shall become effective on July 1, 2027, immediately following the expiration of the current agreement.
Recommended Motion(s):
Request approval to reappoint Dr. Brandon W. Robinson as District Superintendent for a five (5) year term, effective July 1, 2027, through June 30, 2032.
|
|
16. General Authorizations: Buildings and Grounds/Operations
|
|
17. General Authorizations: Staff and Student Activities
|
|
17.1. Professional Development: Sara Bates – PaTTAN Training
Description:
This professional development opportunity will provide training on evidence based practices to support students with disabilities and strengthen special education programming within the district. The training is provided at no cost, with only lodging expenses incurred by the district as budgeted.
Recommended Motion(s):
Request approval for Sara Bates to attend Establishing Component Skills Through Evidence-Based Practices at PaTTAN West on June 24, 2026, June 25, 2026, and June 26, 2026. The cost of the training is free, with lodging expenses to be paid by the district as budgeted.
|
|
18. New Business
|
|
18.1. Acceptance of Resignation and Authorization to Fill Board Vacancy
Description:
Mrs. Brittany Morrison has submitted her resignation from the Jefferson Morgan Board of School Directors effective August 1, 2026. Pursuant to Section 315 of the Pennsylvania School Code, the Board is required to fill the vacancy within 30 days of its occurrence. Authorizing the administration to advertise the vacancy and accept letters of interest will provide the Board with adequate time to identify and appoint a qualified resident to serve until the vacancy is filled through the applicable election process.
The Board of Directors will review interested Director candidates. Interested candidates should email a resume and a letter of interest to Mrs. Ashlee McCombs at amccombs@jmsd.org by July 30, 2026. The Board of School Directors also extends its sincere appreciation and gratitude to Mrs. Morrison for her more than ten years of dedicated service and commitment to the students, staff, and community of the Jefferson Morgan School District.
Recommended Motion(s):
Request approval to accept the resignation of Mrs. Brittany Morrison as a member of the Jefferson-Morgan Board of School Directors, effective August 1, 2026, and authorize the administration to advertise the resulting vacancy and accept letters of interest from qualified district residents for consideration by the Board.
|
|
19. Items of Information
|
|
19.1. Scheduled Meetings
Description:
August 2026
|
|
20. Adjournment
|