BY TOM FONTANA
Correspondent

Susquehanna schools will be loosening up a bit for the next school year.

Although the district recently tightened its belt concerning its financial situation by becoming debt-free, the district will be a little less tight in anatomical areas, specifically the hips and thighs.

District superintendent Bronson Stone presented a revision to the dress code to the school board at its meeting Wednesday night, April 15.

“We will no longer allow yoga or spandex pants,” he offered. “Form-fitting slacks and shapewear will be prohibited.”

The board did not object, and adopted the new rule.

Stone also told the board that the spring sports season finally got into full swing after games were cancelled for a few weeks because of the weather.

“Now we’re trying to make up so many events,” he commented, “that the coaches and teams probably feel like they’re having more games than practices.”

Stone also announced that the district has received a $15,000 donation from Tennessee Gas Pipeline Co. for the purchase of elementary school playground equipment.

“The equipment will cover a 31′ by 20′ space,” he explained, “and will be installed over the summer. This generous donation is much appreciated by our school community for the positive affect it will have for our students.”

He added that the equipment will be most appropriate for younger children in kindergarten to second grade.

The board agreed to renew the service contract between the district and the Borough of Lanesboro for campus safety and security. Lanesboro provides a police officer on campus daily.

High school industrial arts teacher Michael Matis was approved to conduct 40 hours of maintenance on equipment in the industrial arts department at $25 an hour.
“He tears down, cleans and does any maintenance needed,” Stone said. “This saves us about $2,500 by not having to hire a private contractor.”

The board also approved hiring Northeast Data Inc. of Tunkhannock at $17,518 to install a fiber optic network upgrade to the district’s communications system.

Kathleen Hinkley, president of the Susquehanna Community Education Association, told the board that the SCEA is planning to offer scholarships to elementary students in addition to its high school awards.

“This grant will be given to sixth-grade students,” Hinkley said. “It will probably in the form of a savings bond or gift card to acknowlege academic achievement.”