The Altoona Mirror reports that the board, by a 7-2 vote, approved bonuses of $1000 that will go to principals, administrative support staff and central office employees who come under the umbrella of act 93. The money will come from federal monies the district received. The superintendent and assistant supers are not eligible for the bonus. Dave Francis and Eric Haugh both voted no on the bonus motion. Francis said that money could be spent on other things. Board president Dr. Frank Meloy said that school personnel are the most valuable resource the district has, and this is a small way of saying thank you for their work. The board also approved a compensation increase for the groups mentioned. They will receive between 2.5% and 3% for the next three years, provided they receive a satisfactory rating in their job duties. Haugh voted against that increase as well, while Stephanie McGinnis abstained.
