Quakertown School Board held its last meeting of January last Thursday to discuss a variety of topics relating to the district. The multi-use field was also on the agenda to bring the public up to date on the headway of the project. A large turnout of parents and students were there to be recognized for academic, athletic and personal development accomplishments.

            During the facilities committee report, Chuck Shermer gave an update on the progress of the multi-use athletic field. It has been "pushed and pulled by weather," he noted.

            Infill is being placed but the process was delayed due to heavy rain in December. Chain link, gates, fence toppers, bleachers and benches have been installed. Concrete walkways are complete and caulked. The press box and press box feeder will be installed in March.

            Superintendent Dr. Matthew Friedman included many student recognition announcements under his report. Students from elementary, middle and high school were recognized by month.

            For November: ninth grade, Camille Stephens; tenth grade, Donald Wilson; eleventh grade Jessica Meirinho; and representing twelfth grade, Sabine Muse.

            For December: ninth grade Robert Lee, tenth grade, Saida Sheha; eleventh grade, Samantha Maurer; and twelfth grade Kindal Eure.

            January is school board appreciation month. During his report, Friedman acknowledged and thanked the board for their dedication and work. "These individuals face complex challenges with unwavering commitment," he said.

            Dr. Friedman stated they are "extraordinary representatives for our students."

            Under agenda items that required board action, a motion was made to approve the Center for Schools and Communities to perform a physical safety assessment at the academy, the ASPIRE Program, and the district office for a total amount of $2,600. These were not included in the original quote for security assessments.

            Physical security assessments are a level-1 baseline criteria outlined by the Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency.  A school safety and security assessment is a strategic evaluation of a school. It is used to identify potential safety and security issues and eliminate threats.