Projects continue at Mt. View

Mountain View is set to open their doors to students Thursday morning, Aug. 29.

But high schoolers will return to classes without a new principal hired by the school board, following the July 1 resignation of Robert Presley.

But, said Superintendent Karen Voigt, the district’s Director of Curriculum Dr. Michael Elia has also taken on the role of “acting principal” and Dean of Students George Barbolish is also on hand to provide a smooth transition into the new school year.

At Monday nights board meeting, Maintenance Director Bob Taylor provided a project update and noted that some projects would be taking place after students return to classes, including the installation of some replacement doors.

He also noted work on the baseball field will continue. Drainage has been installed and the backstop is scheduled to be demolished the week of Sept. 8.

The board approved the purchase of wood chips from Deer Park Lumber at $42 per ton; as well as approving the replacement of the UV treatment pit box at a cost of $17,650.

The board approved the hiring of Patty Button, of Kingsley, to the new technology coordinator position, effective Sept. 11.

An agreement with the Central Susquehanna Intermediate Unit was approved for a district risk assessment.

Voigt explained the study would look at the facilities, policies and procedures, as well as the school climate in provided the risk assessment. She noted the data gained would be used to substantiate district needs when applying for grants. The district will use Title 4 money to pay for the assessment.

The board also approved a resolution to discontinue the football co-sponsorship with Montrose Area.

Voigt said transportation proved to be a key issue in the lack of participation by Mountain View students. Last year, there were seven or eight Mountain View students that played, Voigt said, adding that number had dropped to one this year. Students already on the roster can continue to play on the team.

Special Education Director Stephanie Anuszewski reported on the addition of a mindfulness sensory room in the elementary school which will be utilized to help students identify and direct their emotions into appropriate channels.

She also noted staff trainings that included de-escalation techniques and the affects of trauma on student behavior.

Voigt told the board the district would be holding off on instituting the flexible instructional days until questions on implementation, internet access, support staff pay, and other issues could be handled.

The next meeting of the Mountain View School Board will be held Monday, Sept. 9, at 7 p.m., in the district’s administrative offices, located in the elementary building.