Blue Mountain School Board Maintains Leadership for 2026

The Blue Mountain School Board has decided to maintain its current leadership structure for the upcoming year. During a reorganization meeting held on December 2, 2025, the board voted to retain Michelle Vesay as president and Dr. Timothy Grube as vice president for 2026, both winning by a narrow margin of 5-4 against challenger Roseanne Zelusky. The board also confirmed Rebecca Miller as treasurer and Krista Strause as secretary, ensuring continuity in these key positions.

At the subsequent general school board meeting on December 11, several students were honored as “Students of the Month” for December. Winners included Lillian Logue and Paisley Delpais from West Elementary, Lyla Halabura and Nicholas Kenderdine from East Elementary, Nathan Miller and Elysa Westrick at the middle school, and Shyanna White, Owen Keefer, and Jonathan Oxner (STC) at the high school level.

Financial and Operational Decisions

The board made significant recommendations during the meeting, including a resolution to limit any tax increases for the 2026-27 school year to no more than 5%. Additionally, the board approved a service addendum with Kistler O’Brien for fire safety and protection system inspections at the West Elementary building, with an annual cost of $5,089.

In a move to enhance school safety, the board authorized the director of facilities to purchase a 2013 Ford Taurus for $1,500. This vehicle will serve as a resource for school security personnel. The board also approved the hiring of Krista Slane as a full-time occupational therapist, with an annual salary set at $72,583.

Furthermore, an agreement was reached with Hazel Health Inc. and Telehealth Services USA to provide various health care services, therapy, and counseling for the next year. To address kitchen facility needs, the board plans to release bid documents for the acquisition of a dishwasher and convection ovens for the middle school, funded through the cafeteria budget.

Upcoming Meetings

Looking ahead, the Blue Mountain School Board will hold a committee of the whole meeting on January 15, 2026, at 18:30 at the district office. This will be followed by the regular school directors’ meeting on January 22, 2026, also at 18:30 at the middle school. These meetings will provide opportunities for further discussion on the board’s initiatives and community engagement.