After an anticipated facility and feasibility presentation, the Greater Altoona Career and Technology Center is weighing additional expansion options to accommodate more than 1,000 students, according to Executive Director Nicole Zernick.

The $7,500 presentation — awarded to Crabtree, Rohrbaugh and Associates in February 2025 — addressed concerns such as building maintenance issues and high student enrollment, past Mirror reports state.

After the presentation’s postponement in October 2025 for further revision, the architecture company presented its findings to the subcommittee at an early February meeting.

The committee is considering its most cost-effective options when it comes to expanding the school, Zernick said, listing building renovations and relocations as viable choices.

“We’re always looking at what is best for the future of the Greater Altoona Career and Technology Center,” she said.

Further expansion options may be included in next month’s meeting, as Zernick said she will update the board accordingly.

In other business, the Joint Operating Committee unanimously approved a Public School Facility Improvement Grant resolution of $954,732 from the Commonwealth Financing Authority, which will be used for roof repair and HVAC upgrades.

If the grant is approved, Zernick said the Greater Altoona Career and Technology Center will pay the required 25% of the grant’s total amount from their capital reserves.

“We try to take advantage of any grants that come our way, so we can use funds for additional things like equipment or educational pragmatic needs,” she said.

They also approved purchasing 30 Lenovo ThinkPad laptops for the cosmetology program, costing $28,470.

Many students already attend classes with provided one-to-one devices, but sometimes class computer programs require a higher-level processing system, Zernick said.

A new outdoor electric sign is also on the horizon, as the Joint Operating Committee approved a donation from Blair Companies and Reliance Bank at $31,000.

Zernick said great opportunities can arise thanks to local partnerships and community members.

Mirror Staff Writer Colette Costlow is at 814-946-7414.