The West Perry School District is doing all it can to accommodate parents for the upcoming fall sports season.

At the board’s Sept. 14 meeting, Superintendent David Zula said the district is committed to following all COVID-19 safety guidelines while permitting access to as many parents of student participants as possible.

Outdoor events are capped at 250 persons, while indoor events are limited to 25.

For football, the district likely will be able to grant entry only to parents. However, one loophole in the provision allows the band to be exempt from the count. All health protocols must be followed.

Due to smaller roster and support staff sizes, Zula said some slots may be available for visiting parents for soccer and field hockey contests. Volleyball would be the biggest challenge, as it is an indoor sport. The district might have to designate which parents can attend which matches.

Technology will be utilized to allow those who cannot get in to see the games live. The district has set up a Facebook live page and a YouTube channel, “West Perry Athletic Department,” which allow for live streaming of sports.

Zula and district principals reported a successful start to the school year after three week was completed with no major incidents. Students and staff were recognized to adjusting to protocols required. Students can have free breakfasts and lunches until the end of the calendar year per new USDA guidelines.

Pam and Dennis Dum were recognized for donating 1,000 facial covering for students.

Don Benfer was acknowledged for donating a Farmall C tractor to the agriculture department for education and restoration.

High school Principal Chris Rahn reported on the opportunities provided by Advanced Manufacturing Association for Perry County students.

The program gives students the opportunity to earn a livable wage with no student debt and rapidly advance in their career. While salaries can vary, a tool and die maker or machinist on average makes about $36,000 during an apprenticeship, and roughly $50,000 upon completion.

The program also opens doors in maintenance mechanics, mechatronics technician, quality technician, and automation robotics technician. Through the program, students obtain state certified pre-apprenticeship credit hours toward the apprenticeship and OSHA certification.

Nancy Snyder reported West Perry has received $646,509 in CARES funding, most of which was dedicated toward technology expenditures.

Six teachers were granted tenure: Madison Casper and Lauren Meili at the high school; Madeline Fortelka, Carmen Lusk and Ellen Mingle at the middle school; and Allison Steinheiser at New Bloomfield Elementary.