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Memo

To: WJAC, Tribune Democrat


From: Greater Johnstown School District
Re: Stonycreek Article

Greater Johnstown School District offers a tremendous amount of programs and services to our students.
We work very closely with Pennsylvania Department of Education to ensure these programs are of the
highest quality. As one example, our high school currently leads the entire commonwealth in the number
of students graduating with an Associate Degree as well as the number of students enrolled in a college
course. Additionally, we offer 13 approved Vocational Programs of Studies for students to prepare them
for careers. Greater Johnstown School District is proud of the wide array of quality programs we offer to
our students in our community.

A number of the issues brought up by the township commissioner in the Tribune Democrat article are
societal issues and challenges which the entire area face. As a public school, we accept all students and
we are proud of our area leaders who are working to improve the community for all citizens. A stronger
community will equate to stronger schools.

We look forward to an open discussion and dialogue with the township commissioner regarding their
concerns, comments, and questions. This includes educating them on the RTKL process.

The township commissioner made erroneous remarks about the District millage rate. For nearly two
decades, the District has not increased the millage rate and have kept that a high value. Last year was
the first time the District slightly increased the millage rate. In fact, they are slightly lower than the
Richland School District. I can appreciate their concerns as it relates to property taxes/values as this is an
ongoing discussion occurring across the state.

With regards to the township commissioner’s “no representation” comment, three of the current Greater
Johnstown School District board members live within Stonycreek Township and thus the voice of the
Stonycreek residents and community members are heard and represented fairly and equally on the
board.

We believe Greater Johnstown School District offers one of the brightest and boldest student bodies and
look for the continued support of the community and nurturing of our area’s future leaders. All schools in
the area do an amazing job educating their students and as always we will strive to continuously build
upon the solid educational foundation we have in the District.

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