-CARLYNTON-
By Sam Bigham
Carlynton school directors approved a change to the district’s drug testing, external upgrades at Crafton Elementary, new textbooks and educational materials and the hire of three special education teachers July 12.
The drug test policy changes are based on recommendations from the Pennsylvania School Board Association. The district will now be able to administer saliva, breathalyzer and blood tests, in addition to urine tests.
According to Superintendent John Kreider, saliva and breathalyzer tests are quicker and will become standard tests. Urine and blood tests will be reserved for disputes or emergency situations.
In other news,
• Window and brickwork upgrades at Crafton Elementary were approved at the cost of $96,479.
• New textbooks and educational material for the subjects of family consumer science, mathematics, social studies and science for all grade levels will be purchased at a cost of about $450,000. These materials enhance the ability for students to digitally access textbooks at home and in the classroom and have a “variety of online tools” and assessments, said Kreider.
• Three new special education teachers were hired for the coming school year for the junior/senior high school. Their names are Courtney Jones, Stanley Manifold, and Madison Persinger. These candidates were chosen after a “vigorous” three-round interview process, said Kreider.
• The district is in the process of hiring a new counselor for the elementary schools. Kreider said a recommendation for the board is expected by August.