Boyertown Area School District outlines savings from virtual platform and wellness grant

In a recent Boyertown Area School Board Committee meeting, discussions centered on the district's virtual learning program and a significant grant aimed at enhancing employee wellness initiatives.

As the meeting unfolded, the board was presented with detailed statistics regarding student enrollment in virtual education. Approximately 121 high school students, 13 middle school students, and 5 elementary students are currently enrolled in the district's virtual platform. This number fluctuates throughout the year as students transition between virtual and in-person learning. The financial implications of these enrollments were a key focus, with estimates suggesting that if these students were to leave for outside cyber institutions, the district could face a loss of nearly $1.7 million. However, by maintaining its own virtual program, the district anticipates a savings of about $1.3 million, highlighting the importance of the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) that supports the continuation of this initiative.

The board also discussed the staffing of the virtual program, emphasizing that the majority of instructors are Boyertown Area School District teachers. This continuity is seen as a significant advantage, as it allows for a consistent educational experience for students. The district plans to continue using its own teachers rather than outsourcing, ensuring that the quality of education remains high. The cost of the curricular platform used in the virtual program is approximately $70,000 annually, which is factored into the overall budget for the program.

In addition to the virtual learning discussion, the board reviewed the acceptance of an $80,000 grant from the Pottstown Health and Wellness Foundation. This funding supports various wellness initiatives within the district, including programs led by wellness champions in each school. These initiatives aim to promote health and well-being among employees, with some activities also benefiting students. The grant is crucial, as it helps cover about half of the salary for the district's wellness coordinator, who plays a vital role in implementing these programs.

As the meeting concluded, the board members were left with a clearer understanding of the financial landscape surrounding virtual education and the positive impact of the wellness grant on the district's initiatives. The discussions underscored the district's commitment to providing quality education and support for both students and staff, paving the way for future improvements and savings.