East Stroudsburg board discusses budget challenges from competing cyber schools

The East Stroudsburg Area School District's Regular Board Meeting on May 19 highlighted significant community concerns and achievements, reflecting the district's ongoing challenges and successes in education.

A key topic of discussion was the impact of cyber charter schools on the district's budget and student retention. Steve Ertle, a parent and local business owner, voiced his concerns regarding the financial drain caused by these institutions, which he claimed are profiting at the expense of public schools. He emphasized the need for the district to enhance its marketing efforts to attract and retain students, particularly in light of the competitive landscape created by 14 cyber charter schools. Ertle urged the board to prioritize this issue in their budget discussions, noting that the district has seen a significant increase in funds diverted to these schools over recent years.

In contrast to the financial challenges, the meeting also celebrated the accomplishments of the East Stroudsburg South track and field team. Students Isabel Manley and Jonathan Ajentedi expressed gratitude for the board's support in establishing an official winter track season, which allowed the team to practice regularly and achieve remarkable success, including an undefeated season and multiple records broken. Their achievements underscored the positive impact of school support on student engagement and performance.

Additionally, board members reflected on recent events, including a robotics competition that showcased the district's commitment to STEM education. One board member highlighted the need to sustain interest in robotics at the high school level, suggesting that the program should be expanded to maintain student involvement in this critical area.

The meeting concluded with a call for continued community engagement and support for various school programs, emphasizing the importance of fostering a well-rounded educational environment that includes athletics, arts, and academic competitions. As the district navigates financial pressures from external educational institutions, the board's focus on student achievement and community involvement remains crucial for its future success.