21-02-2025
Westmont Hilltop approves EADS services for improvements, hires director of development
JOHNSTOWN, Pa. – Westmont Hilltop School Board took the first step toward facilities upgrades at Thursday's meeting with the hiring of The EADS Group to provide professional architectural and engineering services for multiple projects.
The work will be funded by the $1 million matching Redevelopment Assistance Capital Program grant in November.
'The extensive improvement project will focus on vital infrastructure enhancements at the district's facilities,' Superintendent Thomas Mitchell said.
'The junior-senior high school will benefit from a roof and exterior door replacement, as well as the addition of an exterior bathroom.'
He noted the exterior restroom will be a benefit to fans and athletes at baseball, tennis, softball and soccer events at the secondary school.
Other planned work with the RACP money includes new flooring in the elementary cafeteria and restroom replacement at the primary school.
Westmont agreed to pay EADS $48,900 for preparation of the roof work and $79,200 for design of the outside bathroom and elementary improvements.
During Thursday's meeting, the board also hired Jane Solomon as the new director of development for a three-year contract at $72,500 per year.
'With the memories of attending Westmont Hilltop High School, Ms. Solomon returns to the Westmont Hilltop community to take on this pivotal role,' Mitchell said. 'With over 20 years of experience in marketing, brand strategy and business relationship management, Ms. Solomon brings extensive expertise to the district.'
Her responsibilities will include strengthening alumni and corporate partnerships for the betterment of the district and provide development support for the Westmont Hilltop Education Foundation, as well as serving a key role in fundraising for the future recreation center.
Board President Robert Gleason has been a proponent of hiring a development director for some time and noted the district's struggles in finding a person who was the right fit for the job.
He said Solomon was recommended to him after she moved back to the area, and, following a preliminary chat, he was impressed by her qualifications.
Gleason said the new development director was vetted by the board, who were also impressed by her resume, and he's pleased by her hiring.
'I think it's an exciting concept,' he said.
Now, the group will begin establishing goals and objectives for Solomon and build up the foundation.
'The Westmont Hilltop School District remains committed to improving its facilities and expanding opportunities for students through strategic community engagement and development efforts,' Mitchell said. 'The district looks forward to the continued progress of the RACP project and the positive impact of Ms. Solomon's leadership in fostering community engagement for the benefit of students and alumni.'
