LEWISTOWN — The Mifflin County Academy of Science and Technology in Lewistown aims to give students a stronger voice in shaping their education through the newly-formed Principal’s Cabinet, an advisory group that meets monthly with the principal to share ideas and address concerns.

Representatives from each of the Academy’s 12 program areas — nominated by instructors — make up the cabinet. Members were chosen for their ability to communicate effectively, represent their peers with dignity and commit to regular meetings. The goal: ensure every program, from Electrical and Mechatronics to Culinary Arts and Cosmetology, has input on decisions that affect student life.

“The Principal’s Cabinet is up and functioning,” said Academy Principal Mark Crosson, who explained the cabinet is modeled after versions used by previous administrators in the Mifflin County School District. “We’ve had some really good conversations with this group of students.”

This was just one of the topics discussed at the Academy’s monthly Operating Committee on Thursday night.

The cabinet is split into two sessions to fit the school schedule. The morning session includes Construction Trades, Electrical, Early Childhood, Mechatronics, Precision Machining and Welding. The evening session represents Agriculture, Automotive, Collision Repair, Cosmetology, Culinary Arts and Health Professions.

The first cabinet meeting on Nov. 7, 2025, produced a list of practical suggestions aimed at improving the Academy experience for students:

• Military visitors: Students requested visits from military representatives to discuss trade-specific training opportunities.

• Water fountain upgrades: Bottle-filling stations will be installed during summer renovations.

• Enhanced fire drills: Students suggested blocking exits during drills to better prepare for emergencies.

• More live work opportunities: Hands-on projects remain a top priority.

• Updated clock system: This improvement is already part of the facilities plan presented at the December Operating Committee meeting.

“Students really like the real live work experience,” Crosson added. “They like projects they can see.”

The cabinet’s next meeting will focus on student perspectives on safety and security protocols, continuing the cabinet’s mission to make student voices heard.

By creating this forum, the Academy aims to foster collaboration and leadership, ensuring students play an active role in shaping a safe, innovative and engaging learning environment.

Attendance

Crosson reported that student attendance for the second quarter is currently at 93.1%. The Academy finished at 94% for the first quarter.

Closer look tours

The Academy will hold Closer Look tours for prospective students in ninth grade. To date, 115 students have registered, which includes 71 from Mifflin County and 44 from Juniata County.

Field trips

• Mechatronics students will visit First Quality in Lewistown for a career development tour on Jan. 21, 2026, for the PM students; and Jan. 23, 2026, for the AM students.

• Five culinary arts students will attend the 2026 ProStart Competition at Hershey Lodge.

Other notes

• The Academy took a moment to thank each Operating Committee member for their service, support and continued dedication to the students, staff and stakeholders. The students created the gifts that were given to each one.

• Approved the 2026-27 Academy school calendar.

Next meeting

The Operating Committee will meet at 6 p.m. on Thursday, Feb. 12, at the Academy, located at 700 Pitt St., Lewistown.