The East Penn School District ushered in the new school year with a celebratory tone Aug. 24 as members of the Emmaus High School Marching Band opened the school board meeting in their new uniforms and Superintendent Kristen Campbell reported a “fantastic first day” for the district’s approximately 7,500 students and 1,200 employees.

Under the direction of Spencer Koppenol, marching band members entered the conference room and performed for the board while showcasing uniforms purchased through a previous budget cycle. Representing the band, Evan Gable presented a thank-you poster signed by members to Campbell on behalf of the school board.

Director Gabrielle Klotz said supporting the purchase of the uniforms was one of her most memorable accomplishments as a board member. Koppenol said the uniforms “pay homage to the history of Emmaus” and noted students are eager to wear them during performances throughout the community.

Campbell used her superintendent’s report to highlight the district’s successful start to the 2026-27 school year. She said East Penn hired 36 new teachers this year and thanked families and community members who participated in orientations, open houses and meet-the-teacher events before classes began. She encouraged parents and guardians to stay connected with their schools and remain involved throughout the year.

Campbell also highlighted a new Emmaus High School initiative called Breakfast at the Hive, a grab-and-go breakfast station near the auditorium designed to provide students with a convenient option before classes begin.

“Breakfast is important to start the day,” Campbell said, adding that district leaders look forward to feedback from students about the program.

Campbell also recognized four recent Emmaus High School graduates who recently achieved the rank of Eagle Scout.

Parents and guardians were reminded to complete the district’s artificial intelligence survey by Sept. 8. Links to the survey have been emailed to families and are also available on the district home page.

Campbell noted that fall sports seasons are underway, with some student-athletes beginning practices as early as 6 a.m. Event schedules are now available.

In other business, a proposed agreement with Communities In Schools was removed from the agenda after one of the organization’s coordinators serving two district schools resigned Monday afternoon.

Campbell said the district needs additional time to discuss staffing options with Communities In Schools, including whether the position could be filled by a district support coordinator.

“We need to give it its due diligence to plan and discuss how to move forward thoughtfully,” Campbell said.

The board also discussed procedures for placing items on meeting agendas. Director Rita Perez said she previously requested an item that was not included on an agenda and did not receive an explanation. Perez said she raised concerns in July about agenda structure and requested discussion aimed at improving transparency and board collaboration.

Board Solicitor Marc Fisher reviewed recommendations developed by an ad hoc committee and provided guidance on legal considerations and the Sunshine Act.

School Board President Shonta Ford said she has never denied an agenda request during her tenure. She said agenda items are developed jointly by the superintendent and board president and that any board member whose request is not included would receive an explanation. Some matters, she said, are handled administratively and are not appropriate for board action.

Director William Whitney also provided an update from the Carbon Lehigh Intermediate Unit Board.

An executive session was held before the regular meeting. The next school board meeting is scheduled for Sept. 14 at 7:30 p.m. in the Administration Building.