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West York board presses VOTEC on 7% fee increase and explores local CTE alternatives
Summary
Directors raised concerns about a 7% billable-rate increase at York School of Technology (VOTEC), warned on unsustainable cost impacts given the district's 4.6% Act 1 index and a current $1.2M deficit, and discussed exploring partnerships and local CTE programming to better serve students.
Board members devoted substantial time to concerns about York School of Technology's (VOTEC) recent actions, including a 7% increase in billable rates to member districts. Director Geddes said West York was the only district to vote no and characterized the increase as "unsustainable," urging alternative delivery models and county conversations.
Geddes and other directors noted VOTEC's acceptance rate of roughly 40% from West York students and raised concerns about property acquisition and decision-making without broad stakeholder input. The board discussed drafting a letter to VOTEC, preparing an op-ed, and participating in a county CTE showcase to better understand delivery models.
Directors suggested exploring district-run partnerships, pay-for-service arrangements with other career-technical institutes, local employer partnerships (warehouse, medical, Amazon/UPMC examples) and expansion of dual-enrollment or internship offerings. Finance committee members framed the issue within the district’s fiscal outlook: a reported current-year deficit of approximately $1.2 million and a goal of a zero-deficit budget for the next year.
No formal policy action regarding VOTEC was taken; the board planned follow-up communications, possible representation at county CTE meetings, and additional written requests for information to better assess options.
