Superintendent Gary Weber highlighted the achievements of the district while emphasizing the school’s critical role in providing safety and protection for vulnerable youth.

One of the biggest concerns Gary Weber, Warren County School District superintendent, sees is the number of child abuse and neglect cases throughout the county.

Weber’s comments came as part of a year-end report given during Monday’s Warren County School Board of Education meeting. Schools are often one of the most consistent and safe environments in a child’s life, Weber said, before saying that child abuse and neglect remain a concern for the county. He reported that nearly 250 child line referrals were received throughout the school year.

“Behind every referral is a child experiencing significant challenges outside of school,” Weber said.

Neglect, physical abuse, domestic violence and substance abuse count for the majority of referrals received. Weber commended district staff members for demonstrating care and compassion by recognizing concerns, building trust and taking action for the safety of the children. The superintendent also noted the partnerships between schools, children and youth services, law enforcement and behavioral health agencies.

“I think that needs to be at the forefront of what we do,” Weber said. “The impact that we have on students, the referrals often correlate with attendance concerts, behavioral difficulties, mental health challenges, academic struggles, social emotional needs, and increased need for counseling and school-based support.”

Weber also said the trauma students face at home directly impacts their ability to function in the school setting.

“I think that needs to continue to be at the forefront of what we do each and every day,” Weber said.

The news wasn’t all bad. Weber said there was growth and success in many areas with opportunities for students to learn, grow and succeed. Weber said the school consolidation and the transitions that came with it were navigated well. He thanked faculty and staff, saying the school year ended very well and was glad to know that graduation went extremely well for both high schools.

He brought up the programming that is already underway for the summer, including summer school and the 21st Century Program, Virtual Academy, ESY (extended school year) and Warren County Summer Music School all taking place within the district buildings. Weber also thanked the staff and local community agencies and volunteers for the annual active intruder drill at Eisenhower held Monday.

First readings for five policies to be approved with revisions for telephone services, technology and safety were on the agenda. Two motions on the adoption of policies concerning employee use of electronic devices as well as social media were approved.

Board member Tammi Holden, liaison for the Pennsylvania School Boards Association, reported on House Bill 1814, the statewide cell phone ban, saying that the association does not oppose the bill but believes it should be left at the local level with school boards to decide what policies are best for their district. Not wanting to get ahead of the government, Weber mentioned that positive reports from schools that implemented limited cell phone use have been recognized and that discussions on what the Warren County School District will implement will be held this summer.