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Back to current recordSeneca Valley School District SCHOOL BOARD ACTION SESSION Seneca Valley Senior High School Auditorium - 7 p.m. Minutes January 12. 2026 1. CALL TO ORDER by Mr. Eric DiTullio, President, called the meeting to order at 7:21 p.m. A. Moment of Silence - The meeting was opened with a moment of silence. B. Pledge of Allegiance — Maris Profeta, grade 4, Rowan Elementary School, continued the board initiative, “I Led the Pledge” by reciting the Pledge of Allegiance. C. Roll Call by Ms. Julia Benson, School Board Secretary, showed the following members in attendance: Mr. Nick Brower, Mr. Eric DiTullio, Mr. Mark Gartner, Ms. Susan Harrison, Mr. Tim Hester, Mr. Mike Jacobs, Ms. Allyson Mazzoni, Mr. Travis Savitt-Kraft and Ms. Kari Zimmer. 2. INFORMATION REPORTS A. Student/Staff Recognition
1. Ryan Gloyer Middle School (RGMS) has earned its fifth re-designation as a Pennsylvania Don Eichhorn School to Watch, placing it among only one of 12 middle schools in Pennsylvania recognized by the Pennsylvania Association for Middle Level Education. The continued designation reflects RGMS’s long-term commitment to high-quality education, student engagement, and continuous improvement. The recognition follows a comprehensive evaluation that included classroom observations and conversations with RGMS students and staff conducted by the state review team. The 27th Annual Senior Holiday Event welcomed 450 guests to the Intermediate High School on Dec. 22 for a festive celebration featuring performances by the Seneca Valley Jazz Ensemble, Chamber Orchestra and Senior High School Madrigal Singers. Attendees also enjoyed a sit-down holiday meal served by National Honor Society members, with support from JROTC cadets and student volunteers who helped make the event a memorable experience. In November, 23 Seneca Valley orchestra students in grades 7-9 participated in the Pennsylvania Music Educators Association (PMEA) District 5 String Fest at Sharon City High School. Students collaborated with peers from Beaver, Butler, --- 5846 Lawrence, and Mercer counties, learning three pieces during the day and performing them under guest conductor Ms. Gretchen Wyder Zunic.
4. Also in November, 26 Seneca Valley students were selected for the 2025 Pennsylvania Music Educators Association (PMEA) District 5 Honor Choir, representing more than a quarter of the ensemble. Auditions evaluated students on pitch, intonation, rhythm, interpretation, technique, and tone. Seneca Valley students earned four of the eight first-place chairs, reflecting their dedication, skill, and personal growth. Choir directors, Ms. Bobi-Jean Alexander and Mr. Kyle Masson praised the students for representing the district with excellence. 5. On Dec. 13,2025, 33 Seneca Valley students performed in the Pennsylvania Music Educators Association (PMEA) District 5 Honors Band concert at Westminster College, concluding a three-day regional festival under the direction of guest conductor Dr. Tyler Austin. More than 200 students auditioned for 125 positions in the Honors Band in late October, and Seneca Valley had the most students selected. 6. Junior and senior students in CHS Introduction to Special Education and Child Development 2 participated in a two-day experiential learning event, Special Education Destination: Mapping the Journey to Your Career, held at MIU4 on October 21 and December 4, 2025. Students explored career pathways in special education through hands-on learning, modern assistive technologies, and direct conversations with professionals across a range of specialized fields.
7. Two Seneca Valley students - Kelsey Schmitz (10th grade, Intermediate High School) and Leah Schmitz (8th grade, Ryan Gloyer Middle School) - were recognized by Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro and First Lady Lori Shapiro for outstanding community service and volunteerism. The sisters were honored as members of the Pittsburgh Linxx Chapter of the National Charity League during a Commonwealth recognition luncheon on December 15, 2025, at the Governor’s Residence in Harrisburg. Their recognition reflects significant volunteer service supporting nonprofit organizations across Western Pennsylvania and highlights Seneca Valley students’ commitment to leadership, service, and civic engagement. B. Dates to Remember — Mr. [an Hunter announced the following dates to remember: January School Board Recognition Month January 12 SVAOC End of Second Nine Weeks, Grades 7-12 January 15 SV End of First Semester, Grades 7-12 January 16 Staff In-Service Day, No School for Students January 19 Martin Luther King, Jr. Day — Act 80 Day — No School for Students | January 19 Staff Day of Service — From 1-3:30 p.m., staff members may participate 7 in meaningful volunteer activities that have been researched and ‘ preapproved by their supervisor January 23 Report Card Release, Grades 7-12 | February 2 Regular School Board Meeting, 7 p.m., Senior High School Auditorium ' --- C. 29847 All-Star Award, Winner, January 2026 - Ms. Kayla Moore, Bus Driver, was
recognized and presented the All-Star Award by Dr. Tony Babusci, Director of Transportation. Dr. Babusci shared that Ms. Moore has been a Seneca Valley Bus Driver for four years. He shared that during a recent afternoon run, an unexpected change in the weather began. During this time, Ms. Moore remained calm, demonstrated extreme professionalism and ensured that the safety of the students was her biggest priority. He was excited to share that even though the weather caused dangerous road conditions, due to her experience, composure and diligence, she was able to ensure that each of her students safely made it home. Mr. Brower commended her for remaining calm, keeping the students safe, and thanked her for all she did. Mr. Hester recognized that all bus drivers have a very difficult job, thanking her for all she does. Mr. Jacobs echoed the previous remarks and shared his appreciation for treating the students on her bus like her own. Mr. DiTullio shared his appreciation for all she does and congratulated her for receiving this award. Agency Reports
1. Vo-Tech - Mr. Hester shared that the next meeting will be held in February.
2. LU. IV - Mr. Eric DiTullio shared that the next meeting will be on January
28. They have started the negotiations with the secretary/paraprofessional
collective bargaining unit and he is on the negotiating committee.
3. PSERS — Mr. Eric DiTullio reported:
¢ In December the Employer Contribution Rate for 2026-27 was set at
33.59%, down from 34%. In 2019 the rate was projected to 34.72%
for 2026-27. 80% of the rate is for the unfunded liability.
¢ The fund ended September 30, 2025, with a total value of $85.97
billion. This is a $2.2 billion increase since June 30 and the highest
value ever.
» The fund is projected to be at 90.5% funded in 2034.
¢ The employer contribution rate is still projected to decrease 42% in
2036 and then continue to fall another 82% through 2046.
e The funds rate of return {net of fees) is in the top 1/3 for 5 years and
top 50% for the past 10 years.
Legislative - Mr. Eric DiTullio reported that they are not in session until January
26.
Financial Reports
1. Operations
2, Senior High Activities
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Lo
Intermediate High Activities
Middle School Activities
Athletics
Food Service
Tax Collections
Capital Projects Funds
COR=IRCNLARCE L
3. PUBLIC COMMENT - Public comment was heard from Ms. Julie Jones on the topic of
communication.4. APPROVAL OF MINUTES A. Work Session - November 3, 2025 B. Action Meeting - November 10, 2025 C. Reorganization Meeting — December 4, 2025 5. TREASURER’S REPORT 6. GENERAL FUND BILLS Total: $12,031,817.40 7. CONSTRUCTION FUND BILLS Total: $4,478,283.82 Mr. Brower motioned, seconded by Ms. Harrison, to approve the minutes, treasurer’s report, general fund bills and construction fund bills. The motion carried on a voice vote with those present voting in the affirmative. 8. ADMINISTRATION A. Student Adjudications - Approved the following student adjudications: 1. #2025-26-06 2. #2025-26-07 3. #2025-26-08 B. Committee Assignments — Approved School Board committee assignments for 2026. Mr. Hester motioned, seconded by Ms. Zimmer, to approve student adjudications and committee assignments. The motion carried on a voice vote with those present voting in the affirmative. 0. INSTRUCTION A. Conferences - Approved conference requests. B. Student Trip — Approved Ms. Sarah Miller and Ms. Mille Shay, RGMS/IHS Orchestra teachers, to take students to Indiana, PA. for Pennsylvania Music Education Association (PMEA) Districts, January 22-24, 2026. Students will miss two days of instruction, --- 9 C. French Club — Approved the establishment of the Senior High School French Club at no cost to the District and under the supervision of volunteer sponsor Ms. Christina Hollowood, effective for 2025-26 school year.
D. Club Sport Status — Approved the club sport status for Middle School Baseball at no cost to the District effective for the 2026 season. E. Partnership Engagement Agreement - Approved the contract for Structured Literacy professional development for K-8 teachers and administrators, to be delivered by Julia B. Lindsey, author and researcher in the science of reading. This professional development aligns with the Pennsylvania Department of Education (PDE) Structured Literacy requirements. The cost of these services shall be funded through Title II Professional Development funds, as confirmed as an allowable expense by the Federal Programs Regional Coordinator. Ms. Zimmer asked Dr. Palano if the professional development will be for all K-8 teachers. Dr. Palano responded that yes, it will be mandatory for all K-8 teachers during an upcoming In-service Day.
F. Master Information Technology Services Agreement - Approved agreement with Clean Plate Solutions LLC (CPS) at no cost to the district. During the initial 90-day pilot period following the first day of implementation at the Intermediate High School, CPS will provide Al-powered cameras to identify food items and their quantities at the time of disposal. This technology will provide real-time insight into what is and isn't being consumed by students. This information will be used to tailor menus and/or adjust preparation of menu items to encourage participation in the District’s meal programs and decrease waste in the cafeteria. Pending solicitor review. G. Watson Institute - Approved the tuition agreement with The Watson Institute, The Education Center, for enrolled students during the 2025-26 school year. Pending solicitor review. H. Wesley Schools - Approved the academic services agreement with Wesley Schools for enrolled students during the 2025-26 school year. Pending solicitor review. I. Transition Services - Approved the transition services agreement with Cares of Western PA to provide individualized transition services for participating students during the 2025-26 school year. Pending solicitor review.
J. Grant Disbursement - Granted permission for and to disburse if awarded, the Firehouse Subs Public Safety Foundation grant in the amount of $23,000 requested by the Seneca Valley School District Police Department. Funds will be used to purchase an emergency utility vehicle to be used for transporting lifesaving equipment quickly in any rescue incident. Mr. DiTullio shared his appreciation for the work that Mr. Young has done for the Firehouse Subs
Public Safety Foundation grant. Mr. Brower motioned, seconded by Mr. Jacobs, to approve conferences, student trip, French Club, club sport status, the partnership engagement agreement, the master information technology 5 --- services agreement, Watson Institute, Wesley Schools, transition services and the grant 5 0 disbursement. The motion carried on a voice vote with those present voting in the affirmative,
10. BUSINESS/FINANCE A. Naming Rights Agreement - Approved the addendum to Myers Naming Rights agreement for Fifty Thousand Dollars ($50,000), payable in ten annual installments of Five Thousand Dollars (85,000} each year, effective November 1, 2026 through October 31, 2036. YMCA Corporate 25 Community Partnership - Approved the retro- active annual renewal Corporate 25 Community Partnership agreement between the Butler County YMCA and Seneca Valley School District to provide membership discounts and benefits for district employees. Budget Transfers - Approved budget transfers. Budget Resolution - Approved the budget resolution indicating the school district will not raise the rate of any tax for the support of its public school for the 2026-2027 fiscal year by more than 3.5%, which is the Act 1 index for the school district as established by the Department of Education. Callery Borough Tax Collector Agreement - Approved the Callery Borough Tax Collector resolution and agreement. Sherwood Oaks PILOT (Payment in Lieu of Taxes) - Approved extension of PILOT with Sherwood Oaks. Mr. Jacobs motioned, seconded by Ms. Harrison, to approve the naming rights agreement, YMCA Corporate 25 Community Partnership, budget transfers, budget resolution, Callery Borough Tax Collector Agreement and the Sherwood Oaks PILOT (Payment in Lieu of Taxes). The motion carried on a voice vote with those present voting in the affirmative. 11.
PERSONNEL — Approved the following personnel items that were discussed in executive session held prior to the meeting: A. Resignations — Classified - Elliott Pater, Mara Vermillion B. Appointments — Professional — Holland Leventhal, Jocilynn Walter, Professional Substitutes — Isabel Beede, Lisa Bruggerman, Gracie Burgan, Ellie Grossman, Elizabeth Lindey, Jamie Meyers, Katelyn Muench, George Panzak, Mahira Salsa, Eliza Simmons, Blaine (Eddie) Sotirokos, Rachel Stephany, Megan Stover, Mackensie Waag, Clayton Williams, Lindsay Tedrow, Chelsea Mesisca, Troy Jelinek, Classified — Ashley Haney, Ellen Cook, Deena Costantini, Classified Substitutes — Rhys Clements, Kyra Fazio, Mahira Salsa, Erica Yingling, Supplementals — George Gera, Keeno Griffin, Natalie Tofanelli, Joe DeCristoforo, Allyson Masson, Bobbi Lynn Cooper, Billie Jo Peffer, Scott Rupik, Mackenzie Kacsur, Christina King, Erin Andrekovich, Andrew Raisley, Jessica Kerr, Internships — Faith Davis, Megan Troutman --- C. 4 Leaves — Administration — Tresa Amoscato, Professional — Jennifer Whitling, Jill Czar, Carly Magnotta, Deanna Sipp, Katelynn Zaremski, Rachel Razzano, Sydney Heeter, Teresa Coleman, Adria Herlihy, Ashley Graham, Dayna Gulish, Brooke Wilson, Peter Tucciarone, David Grim, Jessica Bear, Classified — Thomas McClelland, Duane Stiefel, Duane Stiefel, Lorena Jones Retirements - Professional - James Lucot, Thomas Magill, Andrea DeFabbo, Rebecca Finch, Susan Huber, Julie Kaufman
Ms. Zimmer motioned, seconded by Mr. Gartner, to approve resignations, appointments, leaves and retirements. The motion carried on a voice vote with those present voting in the affirmative.
12. 13. 14. LETTERS SENT TO THE SCHOOL BOARD - The following constituents communicated through the SVSD school board email account after posting the November 10, 2025, public agenda: LT OoOPBYRETFR SO AD TR Nancy Duerring Tom Stump Julie Jones Erin McClymonds Dicky Nassar Fran Kreider Julia DeSantes on behalf of Stephenie Scialabba Marie Dufalla Daryle Dufford Justin R. Adamski Jeremiah Friday Kane Miller .Andrew & Gulyuza . Timothy & Abigail Jastrab . Randy & Paula Jablonowski . Karli Szweda . Lori Harvey ADJOURNMENT - With nothing further to come before the board, Mr. Hester motioned, seconded by Mr. Brower, to adjourn the meeting at 8:08 p.m. The motion carried on a voice vote with those present voting in the affirmative. EXECUTIVE SESSION — An executive session was held prior to this meeting to discuss personnel items. Mr. Eric DiTullio, President \Bflu@m u Ms. Yulia Benson, School! Board Secretary --- === MEETING AGENDA === Seneca Valley School District SCHOOL BOARD ACTION SESSION Seneca Valley Senior High School Auditorium - 7 p.m. Public Agenda January 12, 2026 ** Subject to Change** 1. 2. CALL TO ORDER by Mr. Eric DiTullio, President A. Moment of Silence B. Pledge of Allegiance – “I Led the Pledge” – Maris Profeta, grade 4, Rowan Elementary School. C. Roll Call INFORMATION REPORTS A. Student/Staff Recognition
1. Ryan Gloyer Middle School (RGMS) has earned its fifth re-designation as a Pennsylvania Don Eichhorn School to Watch, placing it among only one of 12 middle schools in Pennsylvania recognized by the Pennsylvania Association for Middle Level Education. The continued designation reflects RGMS’s long-term commitment to high-quality education, student engagement, and continuous improvement. The recognition follows a comprehensive evaluation that included classroom observations and conversations with RGMS students and staff conducted by the state review team. 2. The 27th Annual Senior Holiday Event welcomed 450 guests to the Intermediate High School on Dec. 22 for a festive celebration featuring performances by the Seneca Valley Jazz Ensemble, Chamber Orchestra and Senior High School Madrigal Singers. Attendees also enjoyed a sit-down holiday meal served by National Honor Society members, with support from JROTC cadets and student volunteers who helped make the event a memorable experience.
3. In November, 23 Seneca Valley orchestra students in grades 7–9 participated in the Pennsylvania Music Educators Association (PMEA) District 5 String Fest at Sharon City High School. Students collaborated with peers from Beaver, Butler, Lawrence, and Mercer counties, learning three pieces during the day and performing them under guest conductor Ms. Gretchen Wyder Zunic. 4. Also in November, 26 Seneca Valley students were selected for the 2025 Pennsylvania Music Educators Association (PMEA) District 5 Honor Choir, representing more than a quarter of the ensemble. Auditions evaluated students on pitch, intonation, rhythm, interpretation, technique, and tone. Seneca Valley students earned four of the eight first-place chairs, reflecting their dedication, skill, and personal growth. Choir directors, Ms. Bobi-Jean Alexander and Mr. Kyle Masson praised the students for representing the district with excellence. 5. On Dec. 13, 2025, 33 Seneca Valley students performed in the Pennsylvania Music Educators Association (PMEA) District 5 Honors Band concert at Westminster College, concluding a three-day regional festival under the direction of guest conductor Dr. Tyler Austin. More than 200 students auditioned for 125 positions in the Honors Band in late October, and Seneca Valley had the most students selected.
6. Junior and senior students in CHS Introduction to Special Education and Child Development 2 participated in a two-day experiential learning event, Special Education Destination: Mapping the Journey to Your Career, held at MIU4 on October 21 and December 4, 2025. Students explored career pathways in special education through hands-on learning, modern assistive technologies, and direct conversations with professionals across a range of specialized fields.
7. Two Seneca Valley students - Kelsey Schmitz (10th grade, Intermediate High School) and Leah Schmitz (8th grade, Ryan Gloyer Middle School) - were recognized by Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro and First Lady Lori Shapiro for outstanding community service and volunteerism. The sisters were honored as members of the Pittsburgh Linxx Chapter of the National Charity League during a Commonwealth recognition luncheon on December 15, 2025, at the Governor’s Residence in Harrisburg. Their recognition reflects significant volunteer service supporting nonprofit organizations across Western Pennsylvania and highlights Seneca Valley students’ commitment to leadership, service, and civic engagement. B. Dates to Remember January January 12 January 15 January 16 January 19 January 19 January 23 February 2 C. School Board Recognition Month SVAOC End of Second Nine Weeks, Grades 7-12 SV End of First Semester, Grades 7-12 Staff In-Service Day, No School for Students Martin Luther King, Jr. Day – Act 80 Day – No School for Students Staff Day of Service – From 1-3:30 p.m., staff members may participate in meaningful volunteer activities that have been researched and preapproved by their supervisor Report Card Release, Grades 7-12 Regular School Board Meeting, 7 p.m., Senior High School Auditorium All-Star Award, Winner, January 2026 – Ms. Kayla Moore, Bus Driver. 2 D. Agency Reports 1.
2. Vo-Tech - Mr. Hester/Mr. Brower I.U. IV - Mr. Eric DiTullio E. Legislative - Mr. Eric DiTullio F. Financial Reports 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. Operations Senior High Activities Intermediate High Activities Middle School Activities Athletics Food Service Tax Collections Capital Projects Funds 3. PUBLIC COMMENT 4. APPROVAL OF MINUTES A. B. C. Work Session – November 3, 2025 Action Meeting – November 10, 2025 Reorganization Meeting – December 4, 2025 5. TREASURER’S REPORT 6. GENERAL FUND BILLS Total: $12,031.817.40 7. CONSTRUCTION FUND BILLS Total: $4,478,283.82 8. ADMINISTRATION A. Student Adjudications – Approve the following student adjudications: 1. #2025-26-06 2. #2025-26-07 3. #2025-26-08 B. 9. Committee Assignments – Approve School Board committee assignments for 2026. INSTRUCTION A. Conferences – Approve conference requests. B. Student Trip – Approve Ms. Sarah Miller and Ms. Mille Shay, RGMS/IHS Orchestra teachers, to take students to Indiana, PA. for Pennsylvania Music Education 3 Association (PMEA) Districts, January 22-24, 2026. Students will miss two days of instruction. 10. C. French Club - Approve the establishment of the Senior High School French Club at no cost to the District and under the supervision of volunteer sponsor Ms. Christina Hollowood, effective for 2025-26 school year. D. Club Sport Status – Approve the club sport status for Middle School Baseball at no cost to the District effective for the 2026 season.
E. Partnership Engagement Agreement - Approve the contract for Structured Literacy professional development for K–8 teachers and administrators, to be delivered by Julia B. Lindsey, author and researcher in the science of reading. This professional development aligns with the Pennsylvania Department of Education (PDE) Structured Literacy requirements. The cost of these services shall be funded through Title II Professional Development funds, as confirmed as an allowable expense by the Federal Programs Regional Coordinator. F. Master Information Technology Services Agreement - Approve agreement with Clean Plate Solutions LLC (CPS) at no cost to the district. During the initial 90-day pilot period following the first day of implementation at the Intermediate High School, CPS will provide AI-powered cameras to identify food items and their quantities at the time of disposal. This technology will provide real-time insight into what is and isn't being consumed by students. This information will be used to tailor menus and/or adjust preparation of menu items to encourage participation in the District’s meal programs and decrease waste in the cafeteria. Pending solicitor review. G. Watson Institute - Approve the tuition agreement with The Watson Institute, The Education Center, for enrolled students during the 25-2026 school year. Pending solicitor review. H.
Wesley Schools - Approve the academic services agreement with Wesley Schools for enrolled students during the 2025-26 school year. Pending solicitor review. I. Transition Services - Approve the transition services agreement with Cares of Western PA to provide individualized transition services for participating students during the 2025-26 school year. Pending solicitor review. J. Grant Disbursement - Grant permission for and to disburse if awarded, the Firehouse Subs Public Safety Foundation grant in the amount of $23,000 requested by the Seneca Valley School District Police Department. Funds will be used to purchase an emergency utility vehicle to be used for transporting lifesaving equipment quickly in any rescue incident. BUSINESS/FINANCE A. Naming Rights Agreement – Approve the addendum to Myers Naming Rights agreement for Fifty Thousand Dollars ($50,000), payable in ten annual installments of Five Thousand Dollars ($5,000) each year, effective November 1, 2026 through October 31, 2036. 4 B. YMCA Corporate 25 Community Partnership - Approve the retroactive annual renewal Corporate 25 Community Partnership agreement between the Butler County YMCA and Seneca Valley School District to provide membership discounts and benefits for district employees. C. Budget Transfers – Approve budget transfers. D.
Budget Resolution - Approve the budget resolution indicating the school district will not raise the rate of any tax for the support of its public school for the 2026-2027 fiscal year by more than 3.5%, which is the Act 1 index for the school district as established by the Department of Education. E. Callery Borough Tax Collector Agreement - Approve the Callery Borough Tax Collector resolution and agreement. F. Sherwood Oaks PILOT (Payment in Lieu of Taxes) – Approve extension of PILOT with Sherwood Oaks.
11. PERSONNEL – Approve resignations, appointments, leaves and retirements. 12. LETTERS SENT TO THE SCHOOL BOARD – a. Nancy Duerring b. Tom Stump c. Julie Jones d. Erin McClymonds e. Dicky Nassar f. Fran Kreider g. Julia DeSantes on behalf of Stephenie Scialabba h. Marie Dufalla i. Daryle Dufford j. Justin R. Adamski k. Jeremiah Friday l. Kane Miller m. Andrew & Gulyuza n. Timothy & Abigail Jastrab o. Randy & Paula Jablonowski p. Karli Szweda q. Lori Harvey 13. ADJOURNMENT 5