Jeff Tech Operating Committee approves budget, sets graduation for June 8

The Jeff Tech Operating Committee approved its 2021-2022 budget at its regular meeting March 22.

During a video presentation prepared by school director Dr. Barry Fillman and business manager Sherry Hasselman, it was brought out that the budget totals $9.6-million, a 2.45% increase over last year, but Hasselman explained that increase was primarily due to grants to the practical nursing program.

The budget for the four sending school districts totals $5.9-million , a 2.33% decrease over last year.

The budget will now be sent to the four sending districts, DuBois, Brockway, Brookville, and Punxsutawney, for approval.

Program focus

During the budget video, Dr. Fillman highlighted the success of two programs at Jeff Tech. The Cooperative Education program, which places students with area businesses for hands-on learning, has placed 30 students with 21 different businesses. Seven of those locations are new to the program.

Dr. Fillman also highlighted the special education program, which is coming to the close of its first year of operation. The program provides six instructors and two para-educators and supports 132 students. This includes five students in the gifted program. The goal is to expand the gifted program next year and utilize the para-educators across all shop areas.

Other items

The committee approved the revised calendar for the current school year, which sets the date for graduation for Tuesday, June 8, at 7:00 p.m.

The committee also acknowledged the receipt of 300 water bottles for student use at the school filling stations. The donation, which totaled $658, came from Symmco, Inc. of Sykesville. It also acknowledged a $150 donation to the Tom Tinker Scholarship Fund.