The North Hills School Board made significant strides in community engagement and educational support during their meeting on September 4, 2025. A key highlight was the approval of a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with Big Brothers Big Sisters of Greater Pittsburgh, allowing High Cliff Elementary to implement a mentoring program called "Bigs in Blue." This initiative will see local police officers mentoring students bi-weekly, aiming to enhance their social-emotional skills and foster a sense of belonging. The program is set to begin in October and is designed to help students navigate friendships and appropriate interactions.
In addition to the mentoring program, the board discussed the selection of candidates for various positions within the Pennsylvania School Boards Association (PSBA). The board is tasked with casting a collective ballot for candidates, including Holly Arnold for president-elect and Matt Vannoy for vice president. Notably, the board expressed a need to decide on a candidate for the section W3 adviser position, with Eric Meredith emerging as the preferred choice after a brief discussion among board members.
The meeting underscored the board's commitment to enhancing educational experiences and community involvement, with the mentoring program expected to have a positive impact on students' development. As the board prepares for the upcoming legislative meeting, these initiatives reflect a proactive approach to fostering supportive environments for students and families in the North Hills School District.