For the past two years, the Clearfield Area School District has benefited from the insight and leadership of student representative Zoie Sidorick, whose service to the board culminated in a formal recognition during the board's meeting on Monday evening. Both the board and the Pennsylvania School Boards Association (PSBA) commended Sidorick for her exemplary contributions to the district.

Davelyn Smeltzer, a representative of the PSBA, delivered a speech highlighting Sidorick's academic and extracurricular achievements. Sidorick, the valedictorian of Clearfield’s Class of 2025, has consistently demonstrated a commitment to excellence and leadership. Teachers and staff members have repeatedly praised her as a well-rounded, highly motivated student whose character and diligence have left a lasting impression on the school community.

In addition to her academic accomplishments, Sidorick has held significant leadership roles throughout her high school career. She has served as vice president of both her graduating class and the National Honor Society. Her commitment to service is evident in her active involvement in Key Club and her participation in various initiatives through her local church.

In recognition of her achievements and potential, Sidorick was awarded the Quimbly Scholarship, a $2,500 merit-based award. Smeltzer announced that Sidorick will attend Duquesne University in the fall, where she plans to pursue degrees in business and law—fields in which her leadership and communication skills will undoubtedly serve her well.

Superintendent Terry Struble also addressed the board, offering his reflections on Sidorick’s tenure as student representative. He noted that while the student representative role is often underutilized, Sidorick approached the position with professionalism and dedication. She not only attended nearly every board meeting, but also actively participated in discussions, consistently offering a thoughtful and authentic student perspective. Struble added that he was honored to write one of her letters of recommendation for the Quimbly Scholarship.

In her application for the scholarship, Sidorick wrote, “Leadership is not about personal recognition, but is about serving others”—a sentiment that has clearly shaped her approach to her role on the board. In her final report to the board, she expressed gratitude for the opportunity to serve, reflecting that the experience helped her grow both personally and as a communicator. “I am ready and excited for the next chapter of my life,” she concluded.

Graduation ceremonies for the Class of 2025 are scheduled for June 3, with Baccalaureate services to be held on May 21. Struble noted a personal connection to this year’s graduating class, pointing out that they began first grade the same year he assumed the role of superintendent. He expressed deep pride in their growth and achievements, describing it as a privilege to witness their development over the years.

In other recognitions during the meeting, the board acknowledged the accomplishments of student Lauren Kennedy, who will be representing Clearfield at the state Future Farmers of America (FFA) competition held at Penn State University on June 10. Kennedy will be participating in the public speaking category, a significant honor that reflects her skills in communication and leadership.

The board also approved several infrastructure and staffing decisions. Among the most notable is the comprehensive renovation of the school’s tennis courts. The courts, which last received only minimal maintenance approximately eight years ago, will undergo a full resurfacing this summer. The project will involve milling the courts down by two inches, repainting the surfaces (including the addition of pickleball lines on three courts), and installing new fencing.

Rather than contracting a single company for the entire renovation, the board opted to divide the work among specialized local contractors under the supervision of the district’s maintenance department. This decision is expected to reduce overall costs while supporting local businesses. Specific components of the renovation, such as fencing installation, will be handled by area contractors.

Additionally, the board addressed personnel changes within the district. After 25 years of dedicated service, Beverly Nicklas will be retiring from her role as accounts payable secretary. In response, the district is actively seeking a replacement for the position.

The board also approved the creation of a new full-time classroom assistant role. This position will be tailored to support an individual student with a range of daily academic and interpersonal tasks, including assistance with schoolwork, social interactions, and the development of coping strategies. The new role reflects the district’s commitment to inclusive education and individualized student support.

Overall, Monday’s meeting highlighted the district’s dedication to recognizing student achievement, maintaining and improving infrastructure, and addressing evolving educational needs through thoughtful staffing and support initiatives.