Pittsburgh Public Schools agenda review highlights PE teacher vacancy, dozens of contracts and grants

PITTSBURGH — Pittsburgh Public Schools and the Mount Oliver Intermediate Unit held a joint agenda review meeting May 21 to preview dozens of proposed contracts, grant awards and policy items slated for future consideration. Board members used the session to press the administration on a long-running physical education vacancy at Pittsburgh Arlington and to thank a donor supporting staff professional development.

The agenda review listed multiple proposed actions across education, business and intermediate unit operations, including a $158,021.85 daily payments item for April for the Mount Oliver Intermediate Unit and several grants and renewals for early intervention services, assistive-technology training, and contracted school supports. No formal votes were taken during the agenda review; the items were presented for board members’ questions and for placement on upcoming legislative agendas.

Board member Ms. Short raised concern about item 6.17, a proposed payment to Venture Outdoors to provide physical education and health lessons at Pittsburgh Arlington. “This position has been vacant since October and the class has been covered from within in addition to providing the students alternative programming,” Ms. Short said, summarizing an administrative response she had received. She added, “I don't think that we are serving our students well by…