Board approves AEDY program changes with Nittany Learning in Holliesburg district

The Altoona Area School District Board of Directors held a brief special meeting on June 30, 2025, primarily to discuss a collective bargaining agreement and the approval of an alternative education program for disruptive youth. The meeting, which lasted approximately 15 minutes, focused on key decisions aimed at enhancing operational efficiency for the upcoming school year.

One of the main topics was the collective bargaining agreement set to cover the period from August 16, 2025, to August 15, 2029. A final motion regarding this agreement is expected to be presented at the board meeting on August 4, 2025, for approval.

Additionally, the board discussed the Alternative Education for Disruptive Youth (AEDY) program. The district has traditionally run its own AEDY program but has found it more cost-effective to contract with Nittany Learning and Associates, based out of the Hollidaysburg Area School District. This change is anticipated to provide a more efficient solution for students requiring alternative education placements, allowing for better resource management and reduced costs compared to private placements.

The board unanimously approved several items under new business, signaling a commitment to improving educational services and operational readiness for the upcoming school year. The meeting concluded with expressions of gratitude for the board members' participation during the summer months, emphasizing the importance of these decisions for the district's future.