Seneca Valley has been accepted into the League of Innovative Schools, a prestigious national network organized by Digital Promise, the school board announced at its Oct. 6 work session, even as residents continue to spar over a proposed $165 million building project.

Board President Eric DiTullio called the meeting to order at 7:05 p.m. at the Senior High School Auditorium. Members Leslie Bredl, Nick Brower, DiTullio, Tim Hester, Mike Jacobs, Fred Peterson, Jeff Widdowson, and Kari Zimmer were present. Susan Harrison was absent.

The League of Innovative Schools membership connects Seneca Valley with leading districts across the country, providing access to cutting-edge resources and collaborative programs. The district plans to share its strengths in career readiness, innovative cyber and arts programs, and future-ready learning spaces.

Three seniors were named National Merit Semifinalists: Elizabeth Browne, Adrian Wrubel, and Autumn Zacherl. Three additional seniors, Giulia Pologruto, Maddox Grupp, and Julian Varlotta, were recognized as Commended Students for outstanding academic performance.

Seventh grader Vivian Heverly was recognized for representing Seneca Valley at the Junior National Young Leaders Conference in Washington, D.C., where she won a presidential race simulation and served as one of 15 student speakers. When DiTullio asked what it takes to be a leader, Heverly replied: "When something happens, you take action, you help others, and you figure out how to solve the problem the best that it can be without trying to create other problems."

Six residents addressed the board during public comment, with most focused on the district's proposed building project. Cindy Kniess spoke directly about the $165 million price tag. Chet Jack, John Czolba, and Jack McMillin addressed various aspects of the intermediate school and performing arts center construction project. Julie Jones spoke about budgeting concerns, and Jennifer Bunofsky raised the topic of contracted building substitute positions.

Tim Hester reported encouraging news from the Butler County Vocational-Technical School: attendance jumped to 97 percent in September, up from 87 percent the prior September, following a new initiative to boost rates. Students of the month were recognized for their career readiness.

DiTullio reported that Brenda Marino will serve as interim executive director of the Intermediate Unit IV following the retirement of Dr. Wayde Killmeyer, and a search for a permanent replacement will begin. He also noted the state budget remains unresolved.

The board approved five retirements: professionals Joni Klotz and Dana Nicklas, and classified employees Terri Keasey, Jody Householder, and Catherine Lusty. A sabbatical was granted to Shelly Keffalas, and leaves were approved for six professionals and two classified employees. Multiple supplemental and substitute appointments were made.

Three student adjudications were approved, along with an affiliation agreement with Pennsylvania Western University and additional bus drivers through First Student Inc.

Nick Brower motioned, seconded by Hester, to approve all personnel items, bus drivers, and adjudications. The motion carried on a voice vote.

The board also noted the upcoming Seneca Valley Foundation's Third Annual Ryan Gloyer Memorial Run/Walk, presented by Westinghouse, scheduled for Nov. 2 on the secondary campus.