Keystone Oaks board debates middle‑school baseball, custodial staffing and enrollment shifts

Board members engaged in an extended discussion about athletics, staffing and enrollment trends during the meeting.

Middle‑school baseball: Several members asked whether a middle‑school baseball team could start next year. Staff and administrators cautioned that league schedules are often set well in advance, that nearby opponent availability, busing and coach staffing are major constraints, and that teams need enough sustained enrollment to justify participation. The group discussed running an unofficial volunteer club for one year (to build numbers) before seeking formal board approval. Administrator volunteered to consult with the athletic director and report back on which nearby schools might be available for league play.

Custodial staffing and wages: The board also discussed continuing custodial staff shortages. Administrator and board members said the district is recruiting candidates and exploring part‑time night shifts and summer help. One board member noted a proposal to raise custodial pay to about $15 an hour to improve recruitment: "So, we had $15 an hour in anticipation to try to get some individuals to help," a board member said.

Enrollment: Administrator provided enrollment context: Dormont is the building with growing enrollment, K–5 cohort numbers are the largest in the district (roughly 1,000 across buildings), and the district anticipates a smaller high‑school population in coming years because of cohort sizes. The board asked staff to supply updated enrollment charts by building.

Why it matters: Athletic offerings affect student engagement and logistics (transportation, coaching, scheduling); custodial staffing affects operations and safety; enrollment shifts drive future staffing and facilities planning.

Next steps: Administrator will follow up with Mark (athletic director) about scheduling and potential opponents and will provide enrollment charts by building. No formal board action was taken on adding a middle‑school baseball team; those items remain for future consideration. The meeting adjourned after a motion and second and voice vote.