Cabin fever yet?

Until recently, I thought that last year’s winter was rough. At this time, one year ago, our district had several snow delays and cancellations.  To date this year, we have had seven delays, one early dismissal and six cancellations; our final day of school is now scheduled for June 6 (subject to change, of course).  You are justified in thinking that this situation wreaks havoc on your family’s schedule; on the school level, I’m sure you can sympathize with what this winter has done to our district’s extracurricular activities, attempts at consistent instruction and testing preparation.  Additionally, after so many unexpected closures, central administrators truly dread the inevitable—and necessary—discussions about whether to send buses out on time, announce a delay or advance to yet another cancellation.

Our district’s snow delay/cancellation policy is outlined on the district’s home page under the link Guidelines for School Delays/Closings.   With several weeks of winter left, we are certainly above average in the number of cold/snow/ice/delays and cancellations this year! I imagine that superintendents are rather unpopular when this happens (can I please blame the groundhog?) and I know that my decisions about weather-related schedule changes will not please everyone. However, when it comes to our children, student safety is a far greater priority than convenience.  As always, my phone, door and email system remain open and available for any concerns, issues or suggestions. 

Allow me to move on to another of my regularly scheduled “discussions” about the Governor’s proposed budget for next year.  As I have previously stated at this time of year, “…let me begin by stating this is not meant to be a complaint session.  The governor’s proposed budget is what it is.” In light of the current economic malaise, most districts in Pennsylvania are facing extremely hard times, with some unable to meet their bills even after extreme budget cuts.  The Governor’s budget will do little to help and may put more districts in financial distress; against their own better judgment, districts are forced into deficit spending prior to passing a tentative budget for next year.  To a modest degree the governor’s budget is putting money into public education but, without a funding formula, many rural and/or small districts do not get a fair share.  Rest assured that, as legislators attach to the budget their own ideas about what is good for public education, the governor’s proposed budget will undergo significant modifications before it is finalized.

February is also a good time to redouble our efforts to educate those groups that bash public education. They need to recognize the successes among our students and among children across the state. Academically, our district’s SPP (School Performance Profile) is among the top districts in Cambria and surrounding counties.  And we cannot minimize the many triumphs of our district’s fine arts and musical programs as they continue to garner regional and state awards and produce outstanding musicians. 

I’m excited and proud to announce that our Board of Directors recognizes the need to invest in the future of its students and has approved the new position of Curriculum Director. We will also soon pilot a Google Chrome Book initiative among selected staff at the high school. The ability to meet the evolving needs of our students, in the midst of economically challenging times, is the result of the Board’s careful fiscal planning. I sincerely hope you will spread the word about Red Devil successes in the classroom and in extracurricular events. As a community we should show appreciation and pride for the accomplishments of our students and staff.  Please share the successes your child has experienced, either currently or as an alumnus. 

Since we all know how Pennsylvania weather can change, I recommend keeping gas in your snow blower and ATV, and having your shovel at the ready until that first sighting of a robin.  Stay safe and warm, enjoy the Olympics, and let’s all remember that good ol’ Punxsutawney Phil is the true culprit behind the current Snow Fest.

Of course, many of you now know that I can’t write my blog without referencing football – which has now been put back on the shelf as I look forward to next season. FYI: as of this date – February 20 – there are 62 days until the NFL draft on April 24. Choose wisely, Steelers….

Dr. D.