Cincinnati Public Schools

The meeting included student-led recitations, board member acknowledgments of community events, student achievements, graduation ceremonies, teacher recognitions, and employee retirements. Public testimony highlighted concerns regarding proposed curriculum budget cuts, specifically the elimination of a social studies curriculum manager position, and urged the board to place a new money levy on the November ballot to combat state-level underfunding and protect student-facing positions.

The board meeting included acknowledgements of recent community events, such as a back-to-school bash, and reports on retirements of certificated and civil service employees. Public comments addressed proposals for a revenue anticipation note and requests for enhanced parent engagement and communication strategies. The board approved a resolution to waive alcohol restrictions for a hospice benefit event and discussed the ongoing efforts and legal stance regarding the withholding of federal funds by the U.S. Department of Education. Finally, the board received an update on the rebranding and strategic planning of the Cincinnati Public School Foundation.

The committee meeting focused on two primary topics: a potential mandatory COVID-19 vaccination policy for district staff and partners, and the ongoing mask-wearing policy in schools. Discussions regarding the vaccination mandate included reviewing feedback from union leadership, co-located partners, and a parent survey. Legal perspectives on the feasibility of a vaccine mandate were briefly reviewed in light of relevant court cases. The committee also debated the impact of maintaining mask requirements on students, teachers, and school operations, weighing health and safety concerns against potential negative impacts on instruction and staff morale.

The committee meeting focused on reviewing and updating internal policies. Key discussion topics included the revision of committee bylaws, the update of the internal audit charter, and the elevation of the internal auditor position to Chief Audit Executive. The committee also deliberated on policies concerning the creation of new positions, employee communications with the board, and the selection and evaluation process for school principals.

The meeting focused on several key items, including proposed revisions to the audit committee charter, specifically concerning the committee's name, membership requirements, member attendance, and quorum rules. Additionally, the committee discussed the selection of a new audit committee member and the reappointment of existing members for the upcoming term. The chair and vice chair positions for the committee were also addressed. The session included a progress report on ongoing audits, including accounts payable, payroll, procurement card, and asset inventory projects, alongside confirmation of compliance for recent external audits of pensions.