Cumberland Valley is approaching a critical period of financial decision-making. With rapid enrollment growth and rising costs, including healthcare, our district must take a balanced and strategic approach to financial sustainability. A successful solution will require multiple strategies, including:

• Property Taxes – While our local tax rate remains the lowest among four neighboring counties, we must balance the need for revenue with consideration for community members on fixed incomes who may struggle with tax increases.

• State Funding – The current state funding formula does not adequately support our district, as it prioritizes factors that do not align with Cumberland Valley’s financial reality. Advocacy for a fairer distribution of state resources remains essential.

• Responsible Spending – Regularly evaluating expenditures and identifying areas for efficiency is always beneficial. Any necessary reductions should prioritize protecting student learning and educational programs.

• Grants and Partnerships – Expanding efforts to secure grant funding and develop partnerships with local businesses, industries, and community organizations can provide valuable resources to support student programs and initiatives.

Cumberland Valley has a proud tradition of academic excellence, preparing students for success in a wide range of post-graduation paths, including higher education, careers, and military service. However, continuous improvement is essential. By evaluating and expanding academic offerings, we can ensure that every student has access to opportunities that align with their interests, strengths, and future goals while also supporting the needs of our broader community. Our focus should be on:

• Elementary Foundations – Strengthening core skills in mathematics, literacy, writing, and critical thinking to provide a strong academic start.

• Middle Grades Development – Offering diverse learning experiences that help students explore different disciplines, discover their passions, and build foundational skills for future success.

• Personalized Graduation Pathways – Providing flexible options to meet state and district graduation requirements in ways that align with each student’s aspirations.

• Career and Technical Education – Expanding hands-on learning opportunities through the Cumberland Perry Area Career and Technical Center and CVHS programs, allowing students to apply their skills in real-world settings.

• Career Exploration Experiences – Strengthening job shadowing, internships, and apprenticeships to help students gain insight into potential careers.

• Dual Enrollment and College-in-the-High-School – Expanding access to college-level coursework, enabling students to earn credits and reduce future education costs.

Growth and Development

Cumberland Valley remains one of the fastest-growing school districts in the state. As our townships and county consider development opportunities, strong collaboration is essential to ensure that comprehensive plans, zoning regulations, and growth strategies account for the needs and capacities of our schools. Advocating for responsible, well-managed growth will help maintain the safety and well-being of our students.

With increasing population comes greater traffic on both major and minor roadways. More vehicles, including tractor-trailers, create added risks for students waiting for buses, walking home, and driving themselves. While land development within properly zoned areas cannot be restricted, we can work together on creative solutions to mitigate challenges for our schools, public services, and infrastructure.

A Team Approach

Public schools play a vital role in serving students, families, and the broader community—but this work cannot be done in isolation. Collaboration between schools, teachers, administrators, parents, and community members is essential to ensuring that all students receive the best possible support and opportunities. Achieving this requires open communication, constructive dialogue, mutual respect, and transparency among all stakeholders. By building trust and working together, we can develop strong student programs and support systems that foster success and growth for every learner.

Programs

One of the defining strengths of Cumberland Valley Schools is the wide range of programs available to students. Athletics, extracurricular activities, and student organizations provide opportunities for students to explore their interests, build leadership skills, and develop qualities that contribute to lifelong success. Many of these programs have received national recognition for excellence. These experiences enhance student engagement, promote achievement, and create a sense of belonging within the school community.

Student Supports

As enrollment continues to grow, so does the number of students requiring specialized support services. Ensuring that all students have access to the resources they need to succeed is essential to providing a high-quality, equitable education. While these services require significant investment, they play a critical role in supporting students academically, socially, and emotionally.

Early intervention is key to helping students succeed before they require more intensive services. Positions such as instructional specialists and academic coaches provide targeted support that helps students overcome learning challenges before they necessitate formal special education services, which come at a higher cost to the district. Maintaining these positions is an investment in proactive student support and long-term success.

Students come to school with diverse backgrounds, experiences, and challenges that impact their ability to focus on learning. As a public school district, it is our responsibility to meet students where they are, provide them with the necessary support, and create opportunities for growth—both academically and personally. Schools should be safe, supportive environments where students are encouraged to develop the skills and confidence needed to become responsible, engaged members of the community.