Adams County Education Committee explores future plans for technical institute and facility needs

The Gettysburg Area School Board convened on March 3, 2025, to discuss various educational initiatives and community partnerships aimed at enhancing student achievement and addressing demographic changes within the district. The meeting began with a report on the formation of a committee that included board members, parents, staff, and students, tasked with evaluating the district's performance based on the Future Ready Index.

Key discussions highlighted that no groups at the high school met targets in Keystone subjects, while eighth-grade students performed well in math and science. The committee noted a discrepancy between achievement and growth metrics, emphasizing the need for clarity in interpreting these data points. Concerns were raised regarding Career and Technology Education (CTE) scores, with only 19.7% of students scoring competent or advanced on the NOCTE test, prompting questions about the accuracy of previous reports on student performance.

The board also discussed the importance of community partnerships to support student needs, including fundraising and job shadowing opportunities. The committee's needs assessment indicated a desire to engage local businesses and organizations more effectively.

A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to the ongoing demographic study, which aims to project enrollment trends over the next five to ten years. The board expressed urgency in obtaining updates on the study, which has faced delays due to the consultant's health issues. Members emphasized the need for timely data to inform decisions about school facilities and resource allocation.

The meeting concluded with updates on the Adams County Technical Institute (ACTI), where discussions centered on potential repurposing of vacant properties for educational use. Board members acknowledged the importance of collaborating with local legislators to secure support for future initiatives, particularly in light of the need for updated facilities to meet student needs.

Overall, the meeting underscored the board's commitment to transparency and community engagement as they navigate challenges related to student achievement and demographic shifts. The next board meeting is scheduled for March 31, where the comprehensive plan will be presented for approval.