Jeffry P. Deutsch, business administrator for Carbon Career & Technical Institute, reported to the Joint Operating Committee last week that none of the five participating school districts has passed the 2026-2027 budget as of yet.

There will be no overall increase in the 2026-2027 CCTI Operating Budget.

“This marks the 13th consecutive year with no overall increase,” Deutsch pointed out. “We are in a deficit mode, meaning that our general fund is decreasing; so, eventually, an increase may be needed in the near future. So far, though, there is no increase.”

In related business, the Joint Operating Committee approved the audit reports for the Carbon Career & Technical Institute General Fund, and the Carbon County Area Vocational-Technical School Authority, both submitted by Kirk, Summa & Company of East Stroudsburg for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2025. There were no findings for either audit.

Student support

Christine Trovato, facilitator of special education, reminded the JOC that the school offers a variety of support services for all CCTI students.

“After school extra help is available up to three days per week,” Trovato said. “Students have the opportunity to receive review of instruction, homework help, make up missed assignments, and retake assessments. A snack is provided, along with transportation to each student’s home.”

In-class support is available where needed. In supported classes, an instructional aide or teacher is available in addition to a lead teacher. CCTI also offers Integrated tutoring for students struggling with technical problem content in the areas of reading and math. The Transition and Student Assistance Program meets to identify student needs. Attendance improvement meetings are offered as a way to get students back on track with attendance and participation.

“For special education students, these meetings are followed up with a grades/performance update as an added form of parent communication,” Trovato added.

Adult education

Francine Kluck, adult education site supervisor, advised the JOC of the spring courses being offered for adults at CCTI.

Courses include: air conditioning fundamentals, nurse aide, pharmacy technician, welding technology, ServSafe exam, forklift, and PA state inspection mechanic certification. Program descriptions, orientations, and start dates are available at www.carboncti.org/adult-education.

Tuition assistance is available for those who qualify, and payment plans are also available. New for 2026, CCTI, in partnership with Lehigh Carbon Community College, successfully completing this course will earn six credits toward the HVAC Certificate or associate degree.

Substitute teacher

Kristen Powis, a building substitute, introduced herself to the Joint Operating Committee. She told the committee that she has a bachelor’s degree in chemistry and forensic science and is currently working toward a teaching certificate in general science.

Powis serves as a building substitute for CCTI, and recently completed an extended period in the chemistry classroom.