New nonresident policy for employees considered

There may be tuition charges for nonresidents to send their children to BVA schools.

During a work session last week, the Belle Vernon Area school board discussed a change to the district’s nonresident student policy that could benefit district employees.

The new policy, which had its first reading Tuesday, would allow the children of district employees living outside the district to attend school in Belle Vernon Area. Employees could end up paying tuition for their children to attend school in the district.

“Children of Nonresident Employees may be enrolled in the Belle Vernon Area School District with official approval from the Board of Directors,” the proposed change reads. “Interested full-time twelve-month employees and full-time professional employees must annually request for their child(ren) to attend Belle Vernon Area School District to the Superintendent for approval no later than July 1.

“Nonresident employees who receive approval are required to pay tuition of $X annually per child prior to the start of the school year. This cost represents the cost for educating a regular education student.”

Currently, the policy does not specify how much a family could end up paying and only displays an “X” in the form. Crystal Clark, the district CFO, explained that the board would decide how much could be charged per student.

Students will only be permitted to enroll if classroom space is available.

During the meeting, director Robert Harhai opposed the proposed policy, saying he would prefer that employees chose to live in the district.

“If employees feel that it is so great to send their kids to school here and work here, I think it would also be great if they would come and live here and paid taxes and invest in our community as well,” Harhai said.

Superintendent Timothy Glasspool said during the meeting that he’s had district employees approach him and inquire about bringing the issue to the board.

“I like being able to offer it to employees,” director Josh Pollock said. “The employees of the district, who know the district intimately, the insides and outs, feel that this district would be the best place to bring their children for an education. I think it speaks highly of the school district.”

Directors Tara Jurczak and Stacey Livengood agreed with Pollock. Jurczak said the policy could end up helping employee retention in the district.

Currently, there is no specific date for a vote on the policy.

In other business for this week, the board will vote on:

• Upgrades to Weir Stadium.

• An ESS agreement for substitute teachers.

• A plan of studies for the elementary and middle school levels.