Board to review TB-test requirement for volunteers after members cite access and cost barriers

Board members on Wednesday discussed the district's tuberculosis (TB) testing requirement for volunteers, raising concerns about access, cost and volunteer recruitment. The solicitor and administration agreed to investigate and report back to the board.

Director Zacci opened the discussion by describing recurring complaints from boosters and volunteers and questioning why the district still required the TB skin test: "I'm worried about volunteers. We're losing people as it is, and I think that's a major barrier." He cited what he said was a low state TB incidence — "the state of Pennsylvania averages 1 and a half cases per 100,000 people" — and said Beaver County "hasn't had a case in years." Zacci said the two-visit skin test creates scheduling barriers for volunteers and that volunteers had told him the district no longer paid for the test, which he said would further discourage participation.

District staff and the solicitor responded that the district's policy follows the Pennsylvania School Code and Department of Health guidance and that volunteers are treated the same as school staff for the purpose of TB screening. Solicitor Turnbull said the Department of Health guidance lists volunteers among school-personnel categories and that "the law does not contain a [modification] provision to allow modifications for school staff/volunteers. They must be tested prior to working for the school," as applied in the district's administration of clearances. Several board members noted logistical challenges, including testing locations and limited hours; one board member recalled the district previously used Heritage Valley for testing but that provider stopped offering testing to the district.

The board did not take a formal vote to change policy. Instead, Turnbull and district administrators said they would research the legal requirements, the payment and billing history, and peer-district practice and return with findings at a future meeting. District administration said it would try to clarify whether the district currently pays for volunteer TB tests, identify alternative testing options (including blood tests through primary-care physicians that can be completed in one visit), and consider communications to volunteers about the clearance process. Superintendent-level staff said they would look into whether any practical waivers or administrative changes exist and would report back.

The discussion highlighted tension between complying with state public-health and criminal-clearance statutes and the district's interest in maintaining an active volunteer base. Board members said they want staff to present options that reduce barriers while ensuring legal compliance.