Board schedules informational session on superintendent search and debates organizational chart, curriculum evaluation and paraprofessional staffing

The Schuylkill Valley board agreed to convene an informational meeting on Dec. 15 to hear from the Berks County Intermediate Unit and possibly other superintendent-search providers to learn how searches are conducted and the costs involved.

Board president Carolee Wint and other directors said new members should have time to review search materials before choosing a search vendor. Board members debated whether to invite only an informational presentation from the BCIU or to include multiple vendors for comparison; staff will contact the BCIU to confirm availability for Dec. 15.

Members also discussed updating hiring policies and job descriptions, noting district policies that date to 2013. The board directed staff to compile job descriptions and a history of organizational changes so members can decide whether principals should report to the director of curriculum and learning or to the superintendent/assistant superintendent. One director requested copies of the job descriptions by Dec. 4 so the board can review before the Dec. 15 meeting.

On curriculum, a board member asked for a midyear evaluation of recently implemented language‑arts and math programs that were not piloted, and for verification that materials removed from classrooms had been replaced. The superintendent was asked to develop an evaluation for staff feedback that could be distributed in January or February.

The board also reviewed staffing concerns for paraprofessionals and discussed using the county salary/benefit survey as a comparator; members noted recruitment and retention issues and suggested the non‑certified compensation plan (which expires June 2026) be examined beginning in January.

No formal contract for a search firm or a change in organizational reporting was approved at the meeting; the board’s actions were to request information and schedule an informational session.