The Big Takeaway
The Bensalem Township School Board approved a major Guaranteed Energy Savings Act (GESA) agreement worth $2.5–$3 million, finalized multiple policy updates, and heard public comment focused on the district’s ongoing budget deficit during Wednesday night’s Regular Action Meeting.
While the evening opened with student recognitions and robotics celebrations, much of the discussion — both from the board and during public comment — centered on the financial pressures and their potential impact on staffing and programs.
Student Spotlight: Robotics and State Playoffs
The meeting began with a presentation from Struble Elementary’s Explore Team, highlighting student work in coding, robotics design, and innovation projects.
Superintendent Dr. Samuel Lee noted that Bensalem has hosted Lego Robotics, First Tech Challenge, and will host First Robotics — describing it as a rare “robotics trifecta.”
During the meeting, board members also announced that the Bensalem High School girls’ basketball team advanced to the state level following their playoff victory.
Additional student highlights included:
- Snyder Middle School balloon catapult science projects
- Black History Month research projects at Belmont Hills and Faust
- 100th Day celebrations at Cornwells
- Valley Elementary’s student-designed stained glass hallway installation
- Rush Elementary’s continued rollout of the Eureka Math curriculum
$2.5–$3 Million HVAC Project Approved
The Board approved an initial agreement with Reynolds Energy Services (SitelogIQ) under the Guaranteed Energy Savings Act.
The agreement allows for:
- Design and pre-purchase of HVAC equipment
- Installation targeted for Summer 2026
- A projected cost range between $2.5 million and $3 million
The district is also pursuing grant funding to offset future mechanical and roofing upgrades at Belmont Hills Elementary.
Policy Updates Finalized
Several policies previously reviewed in committee were approved as part of the consent agenda, including updates to:
- Attendance (Policy 204)
- Weapons (Policy 218.1)
- Emergency Preparedness (Policy 805 series)
- School Security Personnel
- District Social Media
- Use of School Facilities
While the core structure of Pennsylvania attendance law remains unchanged, revisions discussed in committee focused on:
- Clarifying documentation requirements for lawful absences
- Updating truancy intervention procedures
- Aligning language with current state reporting standards
- Reinforcing attendance expectations during school-day events
The policy governs how absences are recorded, when families are notified, and what interventions occur if absences become excessive.
Budget Pressures and Hiring Impacts
Financial concerns took center stage during public comment and board discussion.
During the meeting, it was acknowledged that at least one administrative hire previously considered by the district could not move forward due to the current budget constraints.
Board members emphasized that the district is evaluating staffing carefully as it works through a projected deficit heading into the 2026–27 budget cycle.
While no broad hiring freeze was formally declared, comments during the meeting reflected a cautious approach to new expenditures and personnel commitments.
Public Comment Focuses on Staffing and State Funding
Public comment centered heavily on potential staffing reductions and classroom impact.
Coaching Policy Concern
Laura Ann Burns, a Snyder Middle School field hockey coach, asked the Board to reconsider a policy that gives priority to teachers over non-teacher coaches, arguing it could disrupt the program she helped rebuild.
Board members indicated the matter may require further review.
Teachers’ Union Raises Concerns
The Vice President of the Bensalem Township Education Association urged the Board to consider the impact of possible staffing reductions on:
- Student-to-teacher ratios
- Behavioral supports
- Special education services
- Academic recovery efforts
Board members responded that they remain committed to maintaining programs and staffing levels as best as possible while navigating fiscal challenges.
Advocacy for Increased State Support
Kaitlin Allsopp of Children’s First PA addressed the Board, advocating for increased adequacy funding and state-level education reform.
Allsopp expressed support for continued collaboration and highlighted the broader funding challenges facing districts across Pennsylvania.
March 3rd Budget Forum
Board members also reminded residents that the next school board meeting will be held on March 3 at Bensalem High School. The meeting is intended to serve as an open forum, providing parents and residents an opportunity to attend, be heard, and ask questions as the district continues discussions surrounding the 2026–27 budget and overall financial outlook.
Executive Sessions
The solicitor reported that executive sessions were held earlier in the week, including one immediately before the meeting, to discuss personnel, informational matters, and real estate.
What This Meeting Signals
The Feb. 25 Regular Action Meeting underscored two parallel realities:
- Continued investment in infrastructure and STEM programming
- Growing financial strain heading into final budget adoption this spring
With preliminary budget discussions already underway, staffing decisions and fiscal planning are expected to remain central topics in the coming months.
Bottom Line
The Board moved forward with a significant energy investment while acknowledging financial pressures that are beginning to affect hiring decisions.
Budget season in Bensalem is officially in full swing.
