The Southern York County School District board on Jan. 15 approved revisions to the Susquehannock High School and Southern Middle School curriculum guides for the 2026‑27 school year, and accepted eight stage‑1 district master curriculum maps, after administrators explained the curriculum‑review process and the role of counselors, teachers and enrollment in shaping course offerings.

Administrators said curriculum decisions follow a five‑year review cycle. New courses are proposed by departments, reviewed by administration and inserted into the curriculum guide after board approval; enrollment determines whether a course will be offered in the master schedule. Dr. Reppert told the board that low‑enrollment courses may be merged — he cited three Global Studies sections that were combined to create one course aimed at attracting more students.

The action came after two public commenters urged the board to prioritize the substance and transparency of curriculum decisions. Val Dennis, who said she lives in Shrewsbury Township, urged the district to expand curriculum that prepares students “for adult life in the U.S. and in the world,” emphasizing inclusion across race, religion and identity. She asked the board to continue conversations that welcome all families.

Another speaker, Erica Ryick of New Freedom, urged the board to be cautious about any proposal to increase school taxes while enrollment is declining. Ryick asked the board to clearly explain why additional revenue would be needed, to identify measurable student outcomes tied to any proposed increase and to pursue alternatives such as consolidating underused facilities, sharing services with neighboring districts and seeking non‑tax revenue.

Board members responded that written comments are welcome and asked Ryick to email her concerns so they can be folded into future discussions. Several directors emphasized that curriculum changes are driven by state standards, student interest and the district’s comprehensive plan, and that counselors function as conduits to help students select courses rather than as sole authors of curriculum content.

The board also acknowledged student and staff contributions to the recognition of school directors: culinary and family & consumer science students prepared treats and booklets for the board as part of School Director Month.

The board scheduled follow‑up items, including personnel and policy reviews, and will continue to monitor curriculum implementation and enrollment trends as the district develops its master schedule for 2026‑27.