NEWS
Immediate Openings at Seneca Highlands IU9
Classroom Paraprofessional/Classroom Aide
Part-time position available in an emotional support classroom in Coudersport. Requires: High School Diploma. Send letter of interest, application, current resume, references, Act 34, 114, and 151 to: Sandy Vossler, HR,119 S Mechanic Street, Smethport, PA 16749, (814) 887-5512. EOE
Early Intervention Paraprofessional/Classroom Aide Positions Available in Bradford and Coudersport
Do you want to have a positive impact on young children? Have you thought about working in the field of education? Come join our team! The Seneca Highlands Intermediate Unit Nine early intervention preschool program is looking for part-time paraeducators to work in their preschool classrooms. These positions involve supporting preschool students in a special education setting as well as assisting the teacher in preparing materials necessary for classroom instruction. Applications for substitute paraeducators and teachers are also welcome! A high school diploma or its equivalent is required. If you would like more information, please contact Julia Anderson, Director of Special Education, at (814) 887-5512. EOE
Full-Time McKean County Birth to 3 Early Intervention Service Coordinator
Service Coordinator shall assist infants/toddlers and their families/caregivers to gain access to services and supports appropriate to their needs. SC shall meet with families in their homes or community locations, conduct family interviews, coordinate evaluation/IFSP meetings, monitor progress and maintain infants’/toddlers’ files. Qualifications include a bachelor’s degree which includes 12 credits in early intervention, early childhood special education, early childhood education, child development, special education, family counseling, family studies, social welfare, psychology or other comparable social sciences and one year of full-time or full-time equivalent experience working with or providing counseling to children, families or individuals with disabilities. Qualified applicants may also have an associate’s degree or 60 credit hours in any of the above- mentioned fields of study and three years of full-time or full-time equivalent experience working with or providing counseling to children, families, or individuals with disabilities. Send letter of interest, resume, PA standard application, transcripts, Acts 34, 114, and 151 clearance, and references to: Sandy Vossler, HR, Seneca Highlands IU9, 119 S Mechanic Street, Smethport, PA 16749; (814) 887-5512. EOE.
Instructor – Heavy Equipment Maintenance Program
Permanent, full-time position at the Career and Technical Center; Requirements: The role will involve teaching students on diagnosing and repairing gas and diesel-powered heavy machinery, basic machine maintenance, and safety protocols. Candidates must either possess a PDE teaching certification or have significant industry experience. Act 34, 114, and 151 clearances are required. Questions may be directed to Mr. Jim Young, Director of the Career and Technical Center at (814) 642-2573 or via email. Send letter of interest, resume, PA standard application, and three letters of reference to: Sandy Vossler, Seneca Highlands IU9119 S Mechanic Street, Smethport, PA 16749; EOE Deadline: July 10, 2023
Nurse
Part-time nursing position available in Kersey to assist a preschool student during their school day. RN or LPN certification is required. Send letter of interest, application, current resume, references, Act 34, 114, and 151 to: Sandy Vossler, HR, 119 S Mechanic Street, Smethport, PA 16749; (814) 887-5512 EOE
Teacher of the Visually Impaired
Itinerant, full-time, 190-day position available immediately. Must have appropriate certification.
Send letter of interest, resume, PA standard application, transcripts, Acts 34, 114, and 151 clearance, and references to: Sandy Vossler, HR, Seneca Highlands IU9,119 S Mechanic Street, Smethport, PA 16749; (814) 887-5512 EOE
Paraprofessional/Classroom Aide: Part-Time – Austin Area School District
Requirement: High school diploma. Direct questions and submit application, letter of interest, references, copy of Act 34, 114, and 151 clearances to: Sandy Vossler, HR, Seneca Highlands Intermediate Unit 9, 119 S Mechanic Street, Smethport, PA 16749; (814) 887-5512. EOE
Paraprofessional/Classroom Aide: Full-time – Learning Support – Coudersport High School
Requirement: High school diploma. Direct questions and submit application, letter of interest, references, copy of Act 34, 114, and 151 clearances to: Sandy Vossler, HR, Seneca Highlands Intermediate Unit 9, 119 S Mechanic Street, Smethport, PA 16749; (814) 887-5512. EOE
Paraprofessional/Classroom Aide: Part-Time – Port Allegany Achievement Center
Requirement: High school diploma. Direct questions and submit application, letter of interest, references, copy of Act 34, 114, and 151 clearances to: Sandy Vossler, HR, Seneca Highlands Intermediate Unit 9, 119 S Mechanic Street, Smethport, PA 16749; (814) 887-5512. EOE
Paraprofessional/Classroom Aide, Part-Time – Life Skills Classroom – Cameron County Elementary School
Position available in Woodland Elementary, Emporium. Requirement: High school diploma
Direct questions and submit application, letter of interest, references, copy of Act 34, 114, and 151 clearances to: Sandy Vossler, HR, Seneca Highlands Intermediate Unit 9, 119 S Mechanic Street, Smethport, PA 16749; (814) 887-5512. EOE
Part-Time CBVI Job Coach in McKean/Elk County
The CBVI job coach is a part-time position (a maximum of 29 hours/week) at an hourly rate to be determined at the time of hire. This position requires a high school diploma or GED-equivalent with preference given to associates and/or bachelors degree holders and/or those with relative experience working with teenagers or young adults. The ability to obtain Act 34, 151, and FBI clearances, along with a clean driving record is required. The job coach must complete substitute teacher training or job coach training certification, as well as first aid certification. They must also participate in the IU9’s annual in-service and quarterly CBVI meetings. Responsibilities may include light physical demands and hours may be scheduled outside of normal school day hours.
The CBVI job coach provides transportation, supervision, instruction, and assistance to students and recent graduates with disabilities in a community work setting. The job coach’s duties and responsibilities include, but are not limited to:
” Daily activity logs, as well as bi-weekly and monthly assessments
” Maintenance and cleaning of assigned IU9 car
” Assist students with post-training or post-job shadow surveys
” Assist students with completing interest Inventories
” Maintain confidentiality of student records
” Communicate student progress/needs, questions/concerns from worksites, parents, school, etc. to coordinator and other appropriate staff
” Familiarize him/herself with child labor laws and safety standards
The job coach must adhere to IU9, school district, and worksite policies and regulations, including confidentiality of all matters. Direct questions and submit application, letter of interest, references, copy of Act 34, 114, and 151 clearances to: Sandy Vossler, HR, Seneca Highlands Intermediate Unit 9, 119 S Mechanic Street, Smethport, PA 16749; (814) 887-5512. EOE
School Psychologist/Interns, Part-time/Full-time
Full-time position to provide support and services within our area school districts. Services may include evaluations, observations, counseling, and training. School psychologist certification required. Excellent benefit package, including employer student loan contribution of up to $5,250 per year available. Direct questions and submit application, letter of interest, references, copy of Act 34, 114, and 151 clearances to: Julia Anderson, Director of Special Education Services, Seneca Highlands Intermediate Unit 9, 119 S Mechanic Street, Smethport, PA 16749 (814) 887-5512. EOE
Substitute Interpreters
Qualifications are:
” Pennsylvania state registered with Office of Deaf and Hard of Hearing (ODHH) or
” Holds a minimum on educational interpreting performance assessment (EIPA) of 3.5 or higherDirect questions and submit application, letter of interest, references, copy of Act 34, 114, and 151 clearances to: Julia Anderson, Director of Special Education Services, Seneca Highlands Intermediate Unit 9, 119 S Mechanic Street, Smethport, PA 16749 (814) 887-5512. EOE
2 – Part-time Autism Support Paraprofessional Positions Available, 1 in Woodland Elementary, Emporium PA and 1 in Northern Potter Children’s School in Ulysses PA.
Requirement: High school diploma; Direct questions and submit application, letter of interest, references, copy of Act 34, 114, and 151 clearances to: Sandy Vossler, HR, Seneca Highlands Intermediate Unit 9, 119 S Mechanic Street, Smethport, PA 16749 (814) 887-5512. EOE
Substitute Classroom Teachers, Paraprofessionals/Classroom Aides, and Transportation Aides
Immediate openings for day-to-day positions supporting students and classrooms in Potter, Cameron, McKean, and Elk Counties. Training provided. Requires teaching certificate or bachelor’s degree (substitute teacher)/high school diploma (aide). Updated rates: $135/day for substitute teachers and $75/day for substitute aides – plus mileage.
Individuals holding the following qualifications may now serve as substitute teachers:
” Bachelor’s degree
” 60 college credits and 25 years old or older
” Student currently enrolled in a teacher program and has 60 completed credits
” Retired teacher
Individuals holding a high school diploma may serve as classroom aides.
Direct questions and submit application, letter of interest, and resume to: Sandy Vossler
Seneca Highlands Intermediate Unit 9, 119 S Mechanic Street, Smethport, PA 16749 (814) 887-5512. EOE
Artisan Center Schedules Several Classes
The Potter County Artisan Center in Coudersport is planning several classes over the next few weeks.
Basket weaver, Catherine Snyder, will teach students to make a Handy Tote with Shaker Tape Straps on Saturday, June 24, from 9:00am-4:00pm. Class is $45 and includes all materials in a wide range of colors.
Acrylic Painter, Theresa Welsh, is teaching a Paint-n-Sip class on 6/28 from 6:00-8:00pm. Class is $20 and includes all materials. Students are welcome to bring their own snack and beverage.
Watercolorist, Laurie Angood, will teach a “Teen Artisan Class” from 3:00-4:30 pm on 6/29. The class is for students in 7-12 grades. Cost is $20 and includes all materials.
Laurie Angood is also offering “Young Artisans” class on July 6 from 3:00 to 4:30 pm. Young Artisans classes are for students in grades 2-6. Cost is $20. All materials are provided.
To register for any of these classes call the co-op at 814-274-8165 or email: pottercountyartisancenter@gmail.com. The co-op cannot guarantee registration via Facebook or Messenger. The co-op is located at 227 N. Main Street and is open 9:00 am to 5:00 pm Monday through Saturday.
Hamberger Starting Second Term As Superintendent of Oswayo Valley School District
Oswayo Valley School District
Today, Mr. Jed Hamberger was administered his oath office for his second term as Superintendent of the Oswayo Valley School District. Mr. Hamberger had this to say, “I’m honored to be a part of the Oswayo Valley Community and be able to continue working towards our goals of providing a quality education for our students and our community members!”
Expiration of Allegany County’s Emergency Declaration
Statement from Board Chairman W. Brooke Harris
RE: Expiration of Allegany County’s Emergency Declaration
As of June 18, 2023, at 1:00 p.m., Allegany County’s Declaration of Emergency concerning the migrant crisis is no longer in effect. The decision to decline renewal of the Declaration came after careful consideration and consultation with the County Administrator, County Attorney, Social Services Commissioner, and Sheriff Scott Cicirello.
We are not aware of any migrants or asylum seekers associated with New York City’s crisis entering our County, nor have we received communication from the State that any migrant placements within Allegany County are planned or imminent. We will continue to monitor the situation closely and are prepared to issue a new Declaration and Orders if deemed necessary and appropriate.
Rte 16 NB/SB from Mill St to Grove St is REOPENED
Road Closure: Rte 16 NB/SB from Mill St to Grove St is clsd because of a crash at 1130am, Yorkshire , Cattaraugus Co. ROAD HAS REOPENED.
For more information, visit 511NY
MISS WARRIOR RUN IS CROWNED 2023 PENNSYLVANIA STATE LAUREL QUEEN, MISS MONTOURSVILLE IS CHOSEN FIRST RUNNER-UP AND MISS TOWANDA, SECOND RUNNER-UP AND MISS CONGENIALITY FROM 10 SEMI-FINALISTS
Emma Podobinski, a June 2 graduate of Warrior Run High School in Turbotville was crowned the 2023 Pennsylvania State Laurel Queen during the Saturday, June 17 coronation that began at 6:30 p.m. in the Wellsboro Area High School auditorium. She was awarded a $3,000 educational scholarship and is the daughter of Emily Ayers of Watsontown and Michael Podobinski of Clarks Summit.
More‘Church Around Town’ planned for June 25
Open Arms Church is taking church to three different locations around Bradford on Sunday, June 25.
Church Around Town, a community event that combines music, a message, and a picnic, will start at 11 am at Veterans Square along Main Street, Kendall Avenue Park along North Kendall Avenue (beside Hull Electric) and Callahan Park, 82 Poplin Ave.
The third annual event is free and open to the public.
“We are looking forward to bringing Church Around Town to Bradford,” said Worship Pastor Rich Dennison. “We hope that it will be a day of praise, food, and fellowship for everyone.”
For more information, see www.oachurch.com.
Smethport Native David McElwee to Discuss First Book at Bradford Area Public Library
Bradford, PA:
All are invited to attend Inside My Afterlife: A 20-year-old Tale, with local author and Smethport native, David McElwee on Saturday, June 24 at 1:30 PM at the Bradford Area Public Library. McElwee will discuss the writing of his first novel, My Afterlife, during a short 5-Act presentation which will conclude with a Q & A and book signing.
David McElwee was born and raised in Northwest Pennsylvania and earned a BS from the University of Pittsburgh and a Masters in Science (MS) in clinical psychology from the University of La Verne. A 10-day canoe trip with his brother to Alaska, lead him on a nearly eleven-year journey in which he met and worked closely with a with a group of committed professionals who strove to improve the lives of people with developmental disabilities.
During this time, McElwee enjoyed research, and developing training programs. His clinical experience provided an opportunity to present and conduct a series of workshops with Dr. Todd Risley. During which they addressed deinstitutionalization, wrap around services, training, and the development of competent community settings for people with developmental disabilities. Throughout his career, McElwee has worked to build bridges past barriers in supporting people living with developmental disabilities.
McElwee’s novel, My Afterlife, is a tale that centers on the life of Skeeter McGee, a young man whose short life ends up having a profound effect on those he met long after his passing. Thought-provoking and heartfelt, “My Afterlife” takes readers on an unforgettable journey and will stay with them long after its conclusion. “Follow Skeeter as he navigates his “bicycle book bag” through the ups and downs of life, learning invaluable lessons along the way. But when the unimaginable happens, lives take unpredictable turns that always lead back to the source, the one common denominator . . . Skeeter McGee.”
Light refreshments will be available during this program, as well as a few copies of McElwee’s book for purchase.
CHERRY SPRINGS STATE PARK IS OFFERING FREE IN-PERSON SUMMER SOLSTICE PROGRAMS NEXT WEDNESDAY, JUNE 21 AND SUMMER NIGHT SKY TOUR AND OTHER PROGRAMS NEXT FRIDAY AND SATURDAY, JUNE 23 & 24
Free, in-person summer solstice programs are being held Next Wednesday, June 15 and summer night sky tour and other programs next Friday and Saturday, June 23 & 24 at Cherry Springs State Park at 4639 Cherry Springs Road, Coudersport, Pa. 16915. The park is 12 miles from Route 6 in Galeton via West Branch Road and 15 miles from Coudersport via Route 44.
Star gazing programs are in the Night Sky Public Viewing Area. Park in the gravel lot and follow the walkway next to the restrooms to the seating area.
Check the Clear Sky Chart or Astrospheric for 48-hour forecasts of cloud cover and viewing conditions.
Registration is encouraged but not required for free in-person programs. The public may choose to register because they will receive an email if a program is cancelled or modified due to weather, etc.
Solstice Stroll is Wednesday, June 21 from 8:30pm to 9:15pm
People of all ages are invited to meet at the kiosk by the bathrooms in the gravel lot of the Night Sky Public Viewing Area to take an evening stroll on the longest day of the year using their senses to explore the forest and find their way, just like nocturnal animals do. This walk will be about one mile over a crushed gravel and grassy path.
Night Sky Tour: Introduction to the Summer Sky is Wednesday, June 21 from 9:30pm to 10:15pm
Wish you knew your way around the night sky? Experience the wonder of a starry night at Cherry Springs through a laser-guided tour conducted by park staff. It’s great for beginners. Learn how to find the Big Dipper and the North Star and a few key summer constellations. Listen as the legends and myths surrounding these mysterious patterns in the sky are recounted. Learn about the park’s history, current use, and the importance of dark night skies.
Through Our Telescopes: Summer Basics Wednesday, June 21 from 10:30pm to 11:15pm
Under the guidance of park volunteers and staff, embark on an amazing telescope tour of the night sky. Look through park telescopes at some key observable features of late spring and early summer. Take a closer look at a surprising star in the Big Dipper, peer into the heart of Scorpius the scorpion, and more. Telescopes available on a first-come, first-served basis for the time listed subject to staff and volunteer availability, weather conditions, and crowd size limitations.
Nature at Night: Exploring Our Senses Family Program Friday, June 23 from 7:30pm to 8:15pm
This program is for families with children. It’s so dark, how do nighttime animals ever get anything done? In this family-friendly program, explore the five senses humans and nocturnal animals use to find their way at night.
Night Sky Tour: Introduction to the Summer Sky is Friday, June 23 and Saturday, June 24 from 9:30pm to 10:15pm
Wish you knew your way around the night sky? Experience the wonder of a starry night at Cherry Springs through a laser-guided tour conducted by park staff. It’s great for beginners. Learn how to find the Big Dipper and the North Star and a few key summer constellations. Listen as the legends and myths surrounding these mysterious patterns in the sky are recounted. Learn about the park’s history, current use, and the importance of dark night skies.
Through Our Telescopes: Summer Basics is Next Friday, June 23 and Next Saturday, June 24 from 10:30pm to 11:15pm
Under the guidance of park volunteers and staff, embark on an amazing telescope tour of the night sky. Look through park telescopes at some key observable features of late spring and early summer. Take a closer look at a surprising star in the Big Dipper, peer into the heart of Scorpius the scorpion, and more. Telescopes available on a first-come, first-served basis for the time listed, subject to staff and volunteer availability, weather conditions, and crowd size limitations.
Launch into Space: Yard Games are from 7:30pm to 8:15pm Next Saturday, June 24
Join park staff for fun, family-friendly astronomy-themed educational yard games. Designed to provide an introduction to astronomy, these games are a great way to ease into the Night Sky Tour.
Firefly Frenzy is Next Saturday, June 24 from 8:30pm to 9:15pm
Join park staff for a close up look at the amazing insects that have fascinated people for ages: fireflies or lightning bugs? During a short discussion, discover how and why these beetles light up the sky and then explore the fields of Cherry Springs to search for them. This program is designed for all knowledge levels and ages.
Register at https://events.dcnr.pa.gov/cherry_springs_state_park for park programs. Questions? Call 1-814-435-1037 or email cherryspringsee@pa.gov.
Weekend in the Wilds Lineup Announced
Weekend in the Wilds is set for June 30-July 2 in Cameron County. The event organized by the Cameron County Chamber of Commerce coordinates activities for each day and works with businesses and non-profits to provide a weekend filled with events.
The event kicks off with a teen centered music festival and outdoor movie Friday June 30 in the Town Square. Phaser the musical group from Cameron County will perform 7:30-9:00 pm. Following the event VFW Auxiliary sponsoring the outdoor showing of Super Mario Brothers. Rich Valley Wines will have non-alcoholic slushies and Cameron County Fair will be popping up corn!
Saturday July 1 begins at daybreak with the annual Big Foot Hunt. Licenses are $5 each and the event benefits Mountaineer Search and Rescue. Licenses can be purchased at the Cameron County Chamber of Commerce office, The Lakeview, Driftwood Saloon and Sinnemahoning Tavern.
More than 40 vendors will line the downtown Emporium streets from 11am till 4pm. Vendors include food trucks, non-profit organizations, and artists. Old Skool will perform in the town square 11am-2pm. DJ Dustin with Merry Laurel Wedding will perform 2-4pm. The Firequacker Duck Derby will take place on North Broad Street at 2pm. Mountaineer Search and Rescue will honor the Big Foot hunters at the town square at 3pm. The Cameron County SPCA will draw the basket winners at the chamber office. Fireworks blast off from the Cameron County High School football stadium at 9:45pm. Food trucks will be at the high school.
Sunday July 2 A smash and dash car race will take place at Smokers Insane Terrain Offroad Park at noon.
The Cameron County chamber of Commerce is still accepting vendors for the event. Information can be obtained by contacting the chamber office at 814-486-4314.
DEP Declares Statewide Drought Watch, Recommends Voluntary Water Conservation
Harrisburg, PA – Following a meeting of the Commonwealth Drought Task Force this week, the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) has declared a statewide drought watch. While not required, residents and businesses are encouraged to voluntarily conserve water by reducing their nonessential water use.
“Although this week has brought some welcome rain to much of the state, it’s not enough to make up for the lack of rainfall this spring, following a winter that brought little snowfall in many areas,” said DEP Acting Secretary Rich Negrin. “As a result, we’re seeing lowered stream flows, dropping groundwater levels, and persistent precipitation deficits. Water conservation, always a good practice, is especially helpful now as it’ll lessen potential future impacts on water supplies if rainfall continues to be scant this summer.”
Residents and businesses are encouraged to reduce their nonessential water use by 5–10 percent. For example, at home there are many simple ways to use less water:
MoreGaleton Chamber Independence Day Parade July 1st, 2023
July 4th Independence weekend is a great time to visit Galeton! It’s the 38th Annual Goodyear Hose Company’s Red Suspender Weekend (Friday through Saturday), and of course, THE BEST FIREWORKS DISPLAY Saturday night.
The Galeton Area Chamber of Commerce invites you to participate in the 2023 Independence Day Parade at 11 AM sharp on Saturday, July 1st, 2023. Line-up will be from 8:30 AM – 10:15 AM in the parking lot of the Galeton Area School District.
The parade route exits left from school grounds onto Bridge Street, right onto Germania Street, right on Union Street, and finally turns right on West Street dispersing at West and Main Street.
By registering, you will receive an announcement regarding your entry at the judges’ demonstration area, as well as be eligible for a judged trophy consideration. Parade trophies by category will be awarded at 1:00 PM. at the park pavilion in addition to performances by the Caledonian Highlanders Pipe Band, Honey Taps and Downbeat Percussion.
We welcome candy tossing at your own risk! The Goodyear Hose Co. and Chamber are not responsible for accidents or injuries. For the safety of spectators as well as participants please be sure candy is tossed safely.
REGISTRATION IS DUE BY PHONE BY JUNE 25, 2023.
Click here to download and print out the Parade Registration Form.
For questions or additional information feel free to call (814) 203-8131.
Babysitting safety classes at the Barbara Moscato Brown Library in Emporium
These dedicated teens have spent the last three days taking babysitting safety classes at the Barbara Moscato Brown Library in Emporium with Safe Sitter, Inc. rep Krista Frank and Certified CPR instructors Breanna Ullman and Monica Ellenberger. They learned life-saving skills such as how to rescue someone who’s choking, and helpful information like what to do in an emergency.
They are now trained and ready to safely take care of local youngsters!
Everyone learned a lot and seemed to have a wonderful time and the library will definitely be bringing back these classes again in the future.
We also want to extend a special “Thank You” to Josh Kuleck for helping organize this great workshop series with library staff to bring this great program to the community.