The East Allegheny School Board of Directors held its regular monthly meeting Monday evening, with updates focused on facilities improvements, student life, and ongoing budget concerns.
Facilities Update
The Board opened with a discussion on the aging field turf and track at the athletic complex. The track, now 26 years old, has exceeded its recommended lifespan. GMax safety scores indicate the field remains safe and usable for the upcoming year; however, replacement is becoming increasingly urgent to ensure continued safety.
A representative from Field Turf presented replacement options. The Board agreed to seek additional vendor quotes before proceeding.
An ad hoc committee meeting has been scheduled for October 28 to review the district’s facility fee schedules.
Middle School Updates
Middle School student representatives shared feedback on recent policy changes:
- A new phone policy prohibits device use from 7:40 AM until lunch.
- Revised lunch procedures require 7th and 8th graders to sit separately, with earned privileges allowing mixed seating on Fridays.
These changes have reportedly led to fewer classroom disruptions and a more focused learning environment.
- East Allegheny has expanded its robotics program and will host its first VEX competition.
- The Junior High soccer team celebrated its first winning season since the COVID-19 pandemic.
- Girls basketball started their season on October 8, and a middle school football game and swim meet are scheduled for October 16.
- New student clubs have launched in reading, math, science, STEM, drama, and book club.
High School Updates
- Students debuted the EATV (East Allegheny Talks) initiative—a video series produced by students featuring school events and interviews with staff, including Principal Dr. R.J. Long.
- Senior projects launched, now a graduation requirement. Seniors must complete 10 hours of community service.
- New student organizations, including the Emergent Club and the Alliance Club, aim to increase community engagement and service opportunities.
- The marching band continues its regional dominance and is preparing for championship competition, defending its 10-year winning streak.
Community & Safety
Following the recent concession stand fire, the East Allegheny community has shown strong support through donations and volunteer efforts aimed at rebuilding.
The district also welcomed Officer Carl Kuzel as its new school police officer. Officer Kuzel will work closely with administrators, teachers, and students. In addition, the North Versailles Police Department donated two police vehicles to support school safety efforts.
Budget Advocacy
In his monthly report, Superintendent Joseph DiLucente emphasized the importance of ongoing advocacy amid the state budget impasse. With more than 50% of East Allegheny’s funding coming from state sources, prolonged delays threaten to disrupt key programs and services. Local legislators and representatives have been contacted for advocacy.
In Other Business, the Board:
Passed all motions as submitted,
Except:
- Budget and Finance, Motion C
- Building and Grounds, Motion G
Both of which were tabled until November.
The next regular monthly Board meeting is scheduled for Monday, November 10.