Before adjourning for the summer, the KCSD Board discussed a variety of issues for the upcoming school year
By P.J. D’Annunzio, Staff Writer, The Times
KENNETT SQUARE—Among the primary topics brought up by the Kennett Consolidated School District Board during their final meeting of the summer was the adoption of a new scholarship fund, named in memorial for Steve Robinson, a Kennett High School physics teacher for over 23 years.
The scholarship will awarded to two graduating seniors who have demonstrated outstanding achievement in physics. The nominees will be selected by KHS physics teachers and confirmed by the Science Department. The award itself will total $500 per student, the money being collected by annual fundraiser.
After the creation of the scholarship fund the board approved the purchase of three new editions of mathematics textbooks to replace the worn versions currently being used. The basis for the selection was KCSD’s viewing of presentations by Glencoe Publishing, showcasing the Algebra I, Geometry, and Business Math books.
District officials have indicated that eBook and online versions of the texts will also be available. The total cost of the new books totals $38,119.
In other district news, KHS guidance counselor Diana Wildermuth requested the board allow her to initiate a doctoral study in the high school for the purpose of obtaining her Education Psychology degree from Temple University.
The purpose of the study will be to determine if there is a motivational difference in the motivational factors between Latino students born in the United States and those born in Mexico, and additionally, what can be put in place to help these students be motivated toward success with the completion of high school. Student participation will be voluntary and parental permission will be secured prior to administering the survey.
“There are questions on the survey that are going to ask specifically…when they came to the United States, what year, how long they’ve been here, what level they are in ESL if they’ve had it, and socio-economic status,” Widermuth said.
Wildermuth stated that while the minimum for an accurate survey would comprise 40 individuals, she will attempt to survey an entire grade level.
Finally, the board approved a general services agreement between the District and the YMCA of the Brandywine Valley.
“For years the Kennett Consolidated School District and the YMCA of the Brandywine Valley have partnered to maximize the efficient use of their respective facilities,” KCSD Business Manager Mark Tracy said. “The District utilized the Kennett Area YMCA’s swimming pool for swim team practice and meets and uses the north of the high school campus for student parking during the school year.
“The Kennett Area YMCA uses classroom and gymnasium space in the District’s elementary schools to provide before and after-school programs. The General Agreement for Services will memorialize this relationship for the duration of the contract.”
