School News

Last Updated on Wednesday, 29 July 2015 21:23

By J. R. Brower

The Peters Township School Board recently approved a collective bargaining agreement with school bus drivers, school clerks, paraprofessionals and teachers’ aides. The inked four-year contract goes to June 30, 2018.

Represented by the Peters Township Federation of Teachers, the group was only able to ascertain 2% raises, and employees will have to contribute more for their health care insurance costs.

Also signed was a new 3-year contract for Director of Instructional Technology Adam Swinchock, who will be paid close to $80,000 per year after an approved $8,000 per year raise.

Resignations accepted by the board included High School Librarian Lindsey Myers. Hirings included Karly Kunkle as the new librarian at Bower Hill Elementary School. Kunkle will replace Myra Oleynik, who was recently hired as the new Peters Township Library Director.

Action was tabled as far as 3% raises for ticket takers and workers at athletic events after board members questioned varied rates for different sports. Board member Jamison Hardy said that it is a “no brainer” that school sporting event workers be paid the same rate.

In other business, the board:
• Heard a report from Building and Grounds Director Ron Gault, who said that the renovation project at McMurray Elementary was on schedule despite rainy conditions. That project will cost taxpayers $6 million.
• Approved a contract with Baiano Construction, Inc. of Pittsburgh for school district masonry and concrete projects totaling close to $107,000. Another awarded contract was to a Minnesota company for new stage risers priced at $12,446.