Sto‑Rox board approves hires, calendar and new bell times; nutrition director highlights award and equipment needs

At its voting meeting the Sto‑Rox School District board approved multiple personnel and operational items including a new math teacher, coaching hires, the district calendar for 2026–27 and revised school start and end times.

Wayne McCollum (who asked to be called 'BJ') introduced himself as a 20‑year math teacher assigned to the junior–senior high school. Natalie Pierce and Britney Thornton were presented as head and assistant softball coaches; Pierce said she wanted to revive softball in the community and welcomed girls with varied experience levels. The board also approved granting tenure to Alex Zongetti and appointed Dr. Thomas Aquenta as acting principal at the junior–senior high school effective March 23, 2026, each motion passing by roll call with five 'yes' votes.

The board voted to adopt the 2026–27 academic calendar and new bell times (primary 8:10–2:40; upper 8:00–2:30; junior/senior high 8:20–2:50). Those items were presented and approved during the voting portion of the meeting.

Separately, Janet Connors of Nutrition Inc. delivered a midyear cafeteria report. Connors said the cafeteria fund held about $1.8 million in net position and produced a roughly $147,000 positive outcome for 2024–25; she highlighted local produce partnerships and said the district received the Pittsburgh Food Bank’s 2025 Silver Child Hunger Hero Award. Connors asked the board to consider replacing two combi ovens and a flat‑top grill next year to support expanded meal service and equipment needs. "I've spent a lot of that money this year already and I have to tell you how much it's appreciated," she said.

Why it matters: The hires and calendar changes affect staffing, daily schedules and program opportunities for students; the nutrition update signals operational strength but also equipment needs that may require capital planning or budget allocation.

Next steps: Approved personnel actions take effect as stated in motions; the business office and nutrition manager can follow up on equipment priorities during capital planning.