Shikellamy board reviews 2026–27 budgets and proposes Virtual Academy platform change to retain students

The Shikellamy School District Board of Education on April 9 reviewed proposed 2026–27 building and departmental budgets and heard a recommendation to retool the district’s Virtual Academy to improve student engagement and retain funding locally.

Administration presented the High School’s proposed budget of $352,741.57, an increase of $38,837.09 from last year largely attributed to startup costs for a planned Construction Trades program and rising material, transportation and graduation expenses. The Middle School budget was proposed at $115,047.02 and the Elementary Schools at $279,703.82. Administrators said departments limited requests to essential items and will coordinate to address unforeseen needs.

Dr. Michaels reviewed Special Education services across grade levels — learning support, life skills and emotional support — and outlined contracted services such as occupational and physical therapy and interpreter services. The district reported a total Special Education budget of approximately $10,000,000 with current expenditures near $9,975,000. Board member Lori Garman raised questions about gifted programming during the presentation.

The Curriculum Department proposed $53,799.38 to support materials, RTII initiatives and professional development. The Technology Department presented a proposed $507,469.37 budget for software maintenance and infrastructure work, including device replacement planning and preparations for Wi‑Fi 7.

Athletic and facilities needs were also presented: athletics noted increases for trainer services, transportation and new offerings such as bocce ball; facilities outlined routine maintenance, inspections and a list of capital reserve items.

During the High School presentation, board member Wendy Wiest asked whether the district has considered advertising to attract or retain families and to better communicate programs and opportunities. Administration said advertising could be considered moving forward as part of outreach and recruitment efforts.

Rachel Gittens presented the Shikellamy Virtual Academy, describing current use of the Pearson Connexus platform and challenges with flexibility, engagement and language supports. Administration proposed transitioning to the Imagine Learning platform at secondary levels to allow greater customization and data-driven instruction while continuing to use Edmentum at the elementary level. Officials noted a per‑student cost comparison showing cyber charter tuition ranging from about $8,000 to $23,000 per student and said each retained student represents a meaningful budgetary savings for the district; current Virtual Academy enrollment was reported at approximately 214 students for 2025–26.

Board members asked about supports needed to implement changes, including technology upgrades, incentives and building program identity; administrators said those needs were identified and would be addressed in planning. The board did not take a final vote on platform change during the meeting; administration concluded the budget presentations noting they were built to preserve programs and support student needs while managing costs responsibly.

The board next considered committee business and routine motions; it adjourned at 8:18 p.m.