The Williams Valley School Board recently appointed Gary Houtz as the new representative for Area III, which includes Williamstown Borough’s first precinct. His term will run until December 1, 2024, following the departure of former board member Rikki Kasper, who held the position from February 2024 until last month. The board unanimously accepted Houtz’s nomination, and he was sworn in immediately by Assistant Business Manager Kathy Ferraro.
Houtz brings experience from his previous role as a mentor in the district’s Check and Connect program, which he described as a “rational place” to begin his journey into school leadership. David Hatfield, the district superintendent, expressed confidence in Houtz’s abilities, calling him a valuable addition to the board.
Land Purchase and Other Board Decisions
In addition to Houtz’s appointment, the board approved the acquisition of approximately 41 acres of land located between the high school and elementary schools. This parcel, purchased from Route 209 for $80,000 plus closing costs, generated some debate among board members. Tracey Minnich, representing Area V (Williams Township), cast the sole dissenting vote, arguing that the price was excessive for a land-locked property.
The board also addressed several personnel matters during the meeting. They unanimously opposed the appointment of Alyssa DeFrank from Tower City as an elementary volunteer for the 2025-2026 school year due to concerns regarding her application process. Additionally, Alex Tetkoskie was hired as a secondary English teacher, effective September 23, 2024, with a prorated salary of $43,500 based on days worked.
Furthermore, Andrea Wenger and Kimberly Rautzahn were added to the elementary yearbook staff for the upcoming school year, with salaries determined by the collective bargaining agreement. The board approved revised contracts for both Kathy Ferraro and Joshua Soliday, the assistant business manager and business manager, respectively.
Community Engagement and Fundraising Initiatives
The board also reached an agreement with Acorns to Oaks Consulting, LLC of Pottsville for school psychologist services, effective August 18, 2024. A series of rental requests were approved for various activities at both the elementary and high schools. These include monthly PTO meetings in the elementary library, a school store in an elementary classroom, and a flu shot clinic in both the elementary and high school nurses’ offices.
To support students financially, the board approved yearbook fundraisers aimed at lowering costs. These initiatives will run from October 1, 2024 to April 2026 and include selling senior patron ads, senior yard signs, and old yearbooks.
The next meeting of the Williams Valley School Board is scheduled for October 9, 2024, at 19:00 in the high school board room, where further discussions and decisions are expected to take place.
