Seneca Valley families can expect property tax increases to stay within state limits next year after the school board voted Monday night to cap any rate hike at 3.5 percent for the 2026-27 fiscal year, the maximum allowed under Pennsylvania Act 1. The budget resolution, approved at the January 12 action session held in the Senior High School Auditorium, signals the district intends to work within its existing revenue framework even as it funds ongoing construction projects and expanded programming across its ten schools. The board also authorized $12 million in general fund expenditures and $4.5 million in construction fund bills during the meeting, presided over by Board President Eric DiTullio. AI Cameras to Track Cafeteria Food Waste In one of the evening's more forward-looking moves, directors approved a 90-day pilot program that will install artificial intelligence-powered cameras in the Intermediate High School cafeteria. The technology, provided by Clean Plate Solutions LLC at no cost to the district, will identify food items and quantities at the point of disposal, giving nutrition staff real-time data on what students are and are not eating. District officials said the information will be used to adjust menus and food preparation to boost participation in meal programs and reduce waste. The agreement is pending final solicitor review. Naming Rights, Grants, and Partnerships The board approved a $50,000 addendum to the Myers naming rights agreement, structured as ten annual payments of $5,000 beginning November 2026. Directors also authorized the district police department to apply for and disburse a $23,000 Firehouse Subs Public Safety Foundation grant to purchase an emergency utility vehicle for transporting lifesaving equipment during rescue incidents on school grounds. A renewed partnership with the Butler County YMCA will continue providing membership discounts for district employees, and the board extended a Payment in Lieu of Taxes arrangement with Sherwood Oaks. Middle School Earns Fifth State Honor Ryan Gloyer Middle School earned its fifth re-designation as a Pennsylvania Don Eichhorn School to Watch, placing it among just 12 middle schools statewide recognized by the Pennsylvania Association for Middle Level Education. The distinction follows a comprehensive evaluation including classroom observations and conversations with students and staff by a state review team. Music and Service Excellence The recognition portion of the meeting highlighted a banner season for the district's music programs. Thirty-three students performed in the PMEA District 5 Honors Band at Westminster College, the most from any district in the region. Twenty-six students earned selection to the District 5 Honor Choir, capturing four of eight first-place chairs. Another 23 orchestra students participated in the District 5 String Fest. Board members also recognized sisters Kelsey and Leah Schmitz, honored by Governor Josh Shapiro and First Lady Lori Shapiro at the Governor's Residence in December for outstanding community service through the Pittsburgh Linxx Chapter of the National Charity League. New Clubs and Programs Directors approved the establishment of a French Club at the Senior High School and granted club sport status to Middle School Baseball for the 2026 season, both at no cost to the district. The board also approved a structured literacy professional development contract for K-8 teachers and administrators, funded through federal Title II dollars, to align with state Department of Education requirements. The 27th Annual Senior Holiday Event, held December 22, drew 450 guests to the Intermediate High School for performances by the Jazz Ensemble, Chamber Orchestra, and Madrigal Singers, with a sit-down meal served by National Honor Society members and JROTC cadets. The board received 17 letters from community members. The next regular meeting is scheduled for February 2 at 7 p.m. in the Senior High School Auditorium.