Carlynton board addresses cyber school, transportation, aide pay

Seven students have enrolled in Carlynton School District’s Cyber Academy for the 2019-20 school year, which results in a net savings of about $90,000.

The new online instructional program is offered to students of the district who are enrolled in a cyber or charter school. The Carlynton Cyber Academy is for students in grades one through 12.

Five general education students and two special education students are enrolled.

When Ed Mantich, district director of curriculum, instruction and assessment, informed school board members in July about the cyber academy launch, he said the district targeted 45 students who were attending other cyber schools.

Carlynton has a partnership with Seneca Valley and did not have any start-up costs. All fees will pay for the use of Seneca Valley’s web-based platform, which is nationally recognized.

The difference between what Carlynton pays to use the Seneca Valley platform versus what it pays to cover a student’s tuition to other cyber and charter schools is about $19,000 for a special education student and more than $9,000 for a general education student.

Mantich said Carlynton cyber students would earn Carlynton diplomas and be able to participate in commencement. Students in the Carlynton Cyber Academy also will be able to participate in extracurricular activities, clubs and prom.

The district provided each student with a computer.

Transportation services

Carlynton school board members ratified an agreement between the district and zTrip for motor vehicle transportation services on a temporary scheduled basis.

Board President Jim Schriver said zTrip has seen an increase in business from busing children in other school districts. Carlynton officials consolidated bus routes this year in an effort to reduce costs. Schriver said instead of using a bus to take one or two students on longer routes, zTrip drivers can do the job.

“It’s economically viable,” Schriver said. “The drivers are certified and have all clearances. They have the same approvals as bus drivers.”

While the costs depends on the route, Schriver said the rate is significantly cheaper than using a school bus.

Pay raise for aides

Carlynton board members approved an hourly rate increase for substitute cafeteria and playground and lunchroom aides from $7.25 an hour to $9 an hour.

Board member David Roussos made the motion, which was not on the Sept. 17 meeting agenda. The increase is effective immediately.

“We’re just trying to be competitive,” Roussos said.