The Fox Chapel Area School Board held an agenda study session on October 6, 2025, focusing on key operational updates and agreements for the upcoming school year. The meeting addressed two primary topics: the hiring of additional school bus drivers and change orders related to the Hartwood Elementary School HVAC project.

The board ratified the hiring of additional bus drivers from ABC Transit for the 2025-2026 school year, confirming that all necessary licensing and clearances have been verified. However, the district is still facing a staffing shortage, with a daily shortfall of 6 to 11 drivers. The board is collaborating with ABC Transit to adjust bus routes as needed to ensure students are transported safely to and from school.

In another significant discussion, the board approved several change orders for the Hartwood Elementary School HVAC project, totaling over $80,000. These changes were deemed essential due to unforeseen safety-critical conditions that needed to be addressed to meet contemporary safety standards. Board members expressed confidence that these changes would bring the building up to fire code and improve overall safety.

Additionally, the finance report highlighted upcoming fund disbursements, including over $10 million from Fund 10 and approximately $661,000 from the capital reserve fund. The board also discussed several educational agreements, including a partnership with Seton Hill University and a new agreement with Wesley Family Services for site-based academic services.

Overall, the meeting underscored the district's commitment to ensuring student safety and maintaining operational efficiency as it prepares for the new school year. The board will continue to monitor staffing needs and project developments closely.