PIQUA — During the Nov. 23 meeting of the Upper Valley Career Center Board of Education, board President Andy Hite recognized Superintendent Dr. Nancy Luce for her selection as one of five national finalists for the ACTE Administrator of the Year Award.
Luce had previously been honored by Ohio ACTE as Ohio Administrator of the Year and was subsequently selected to represent ACTE Region I as a finalist.
Other highlights from the meeting included:
• The board approved the Piqua Community Foundation Grant for the Early Childhood Education Program for CDA applications in the amount of $3,250.00.
• The board approved the purchase order in the amount of $27,030 to ATI Testing for Adult LPN comprehensive testing and instructional packages (34 count at $795 each) for the January 2016 class. Tests are resale items charged to the students.
• Board member Bob Luby provided information about several pieces of proposed legislation. HB212 which would repeal current academic standards and the teacher evaluation system. HB113 would require CPR and AED instruction prior to graduation. SB85 would limit the ability to file tax challenges.
• Apprenticeship Coordinator Tony Trapp and HVACR Apprentice Dale Garber provided an update on the status of the apprenticeship program. There are currently 31 apprentices in addition to 25 students in the advanced placement program. As a result of Trapp’s efforts, the Upper Valley Career Center Apprenticeship Program was recently one of two high schools in the state of Ohio that earned accreditation as an Approved Pre‐Apprenticeship Provider. Dr. Luce emphasized that the Upper Valley Career Center serves as a state model and is frequently recognized by the State Apprenticeship Council as an example of best practices. Trapp and Dr. Luce commended Garber for being one of five students in the state of Ohio to be selected as a candidate for the Presidential Scholar Program. Twenty students will be honored nationally.
• Luce told members that an MPV (multipurpose vehicle) was available in front of the building for them to see. The MPV is being considered for purchase given the number of seats and the availability of storage bins for equipment. Currently, two vans – one with students and one for equipment – must be sent when small groups go to competitions. If the number of students is small but exceeds the van capacity, the van makes two trips when possible or a full bus is sent.
