Note: We had some audio issues with this one—CV’s wind tunnel-like HVAC rumble didn’t play well with our microphones.
Meeting summary via Chartiers Valley’s website:
Parkway West Career and Technology Center Director Dr. Darby Copeland spoke to the board about the labor market and how only 33% of today’s jobs require a 4-year degree. Moreover, he said that 51% of young adults do not earn a college degree by age 24.
He stated that the school’s 14 career majors focus on “Opportunity Occupations” and “Priority Occupations” while introducing salaries levels for these careers. “These are jobs and career paths that can’t be outsourced,” he added. Assistant Director Mr. Brock Snedeker spoke about how the school’s new Sports Medicine & Rehabilitation Thereapy Technology program has doubled enrollment in its second year and that the overall enrollment has increased over the past three years to make Parkway West CTC the most attended CTC in Allegheny County. Mr. Snedeker promoted the center’s clinics for Culinary Arts, Cosmetology, Auto Technology, and Veterinary Assistant Technology which offer goods and services to the general public at greatly reduced costs. Supervisor Mr. Fred McGivern touched on the academic offerings at Parkway West, exceptional NOCTI standardized test scores and PA Department of Education commendations. He also detailed the 107 Portable Industry Certifications earned by CVHS students in 2016-2017.
Superintendent’s Report
Mr. Seltzer shared PDE’s Index Report detailing the percentage by which districts are permitted to raise taxes for the 2018-2019 school year. Chartiers Valley was listed at 2.4%. Mr. Seltzer stated that the district’s finance consultant believed that number to be low and would be researching the matter. Mr. Seltzer addressed the rumors and realities of the district’s current budget situation.
“We’ve found that computers are available to every student who needs one in the computer labs and art supplies are sufficient despite art budgets being reduced. The teachers are becoming more fiscally responsible with their materials. They’re no longer buying just to stock up on supplies, but making use of their surplus and the supplies available. The building principals are open to buying materials for specific projects if their budgets permit. Beyond that, the superintendent and board will determine if the purchase is warranted.”
Action
The board passed the Human Resources report and construction change orders detailed on the agenda.