Blue Mountain High School is considering the introduction of virtual electives for students who meet specific criteria, a proposal discussed during the school board meeting on February 17. This initiative aims to provide additional educational opportunities for students who have already completed the electives available during regular school hours.
The virtual electives would be available only to students on track for graduation and those who fulfill the necessary prerequisites for each elective. This offering reflects the school’s commitment to enhancing educational options for its students, especially those seeking to expand their learning beyond traditional classroom settings.
Board Approvals and Personnel Changes
During the February meeting, the school board also approved several key personnel changes and initiatives. Among the decisions made were the following:
- The appointment of Megan Hughes as the Director of Pupil Services at an annual prorated salary of $111,837.
- Jennifer Moran was appointed as the Director of Special Education at an annual prorated salary of $107,643.
- Timothy Gombar will take on the role of Elementary West principal with an annual salary of $103,614, effective July 1.
Additionally, the board accepted letters of intent to retire from both James McGonigle, the middle school principal, and Tara Steinbilber, an Elementary East teacher, effective June 30.
The board also approved a revision to the high school curriculum guide and the implementation of a summer credit recovery program for the summer of 2026. This program aims to assist students in recovering credits to ensure they remain on track for graduation.
Coaching Appointments and Financial Agreements
In the realm of athletics, the board appointed several new coaches, including Lauren Berger-Yelenik and Thomas McKee as assistant girls’ softball coaches, each receiving a stipend of $2,700. Jennifer Lavine will serve as the head cheer coach at a stipend of $5,000. Morgan DeWitt will act as the senior class adviser for a stipend of $630, and Madison Heim will volunteer as a girls’ softball coach.
Furthermore, the board approved a $125 program advertisement for the 2026 Eagle Foundation of the Blue Mountain School District awards and recognition reception program booklet. Financial agreements were also established, including a special education service agreement with the Schuylkill Intermediate Unit 29 for the 2025-26 school year, totaling $505,123, and an IDEA-B sub-grant agreement with an estimated allocation of $449,515 for the district.
The next committee of the whole meeting is scheduled for March 17 at 18:30 at the district office. The following regular meeting will occur on March 23 at 18:30 at Blue Mountain Elementary West.
