12/24/2025

BESSEMER - The Bessemer Area Schools Board of Education has reaffirmed its decision to decline the state’s 31aa funding unless the language is significantly altered by the December 30 deadline. School aid act funding supports essential services like staffing and safety measures. However, to receive it, schools must waive attorney-client privilege during investigations related to mass casualty events. Superintendent Richard Matrella reported the decision following the board’s December 19 meeting, when no indicated changes to the language were seen as of December 18. Matrella also stated that the waiver has caused widespread discontent, leading over 30 districts to file a lawsuit challenging the provision.