Blaine Parker

The meeting began with the board receiving recognition and tokens of appreciation. Key discussions included updates on attendance and PBIS information, the implementation of a Tech Ohio program, and professional development plans aligned with a literacy grant initiative. The board approved the agenda, confirmed the 2026 mileage rate at 72.5 cents per mile, and discussed monitoring expenditures against rising costs and construction project uncertainty. Old Business involved the approval of holiday bonus amounts. The Consent Agenda covered several items: approval of a Buck Fifty Checkpoint Agreement, approving HVAC system repairs for $11,680.00, approving a one-year Non-Teaching Limited Contract, accepting resignations, approving employment contracts for softball and baseball coaches, approving several volunteers for track and softball/baseball coaching, and approving a substitute custodian and a van driver. New Business items included the approval of a Senior Class trip to Disney World in March 2027 (paid for by students), approval of administrative leave for an employee beginning December 11, 2025, approval of a change order (R9) for $22,982.00 for the Warrior Wellness Center due to county building department requirements, and authorizing an agreement for an in-kind donation of materials for the Warrior Wellness Center with an estimated value of $60,000. Additionally, color options for the wellness center, a revised school calendar, and a new AI policy were presented for review. The session concluded with an Executive Session to discuss the consideration of employment of a public employee, confidential matters, and investigation of charges against a public employee.

The primary discussion item was the review and approval of the Tax Budget for Fiscal Year 2027. The board moved to approve the budget as presented.

The organizational meeting included the administration of the oath of office to newly elected and re-elected board members. Key actions involved the nomination and approval of officers for the calendar year 2023, naming Mr. Roy Robinson as President and Mr. Brice Acton as Vice President. The Board established the date, time, and place for future regular meetings, setting them for the third Tuesday of each month at 5:30 P.M., with specific alternate locations noted for June, October, and March. Several administrative authorizations were granted, including permission for administrators to apply for grants, authorization for the Treasurer to pay bills, and granting the Superintendent authority to enter into contracts up to $25,000 for health, safety, or security concerns, subject to ratification. The Board also adopted Robert's Rules of Order for Small Boards.

The meeting included staff recognitions for dedication to the high school building and contributions to the PBIS program, along with a student spotlight. An update was provided on security measures and protocols. Departing Board members were recognized for their service and accomplishments, including enhancements to athletic facilities, the bus fleet, technology, and curriculum. Key financial discussions involved the approval of the BWC payment for 2026 coverage and concerns raised regarding projected deficit spending for FY26, which influenced the cautious approach recommended for capital spending outside the wellness center project. The Board approved several Treasurer's Items, including the financial report and various payments. Action items included scheduling January meetings (Organizational, Tax Budget Hearing, Regular Meeting), appointing a President Pro Tem, approving a Memorandum of Understanding with Paint Valley Local School District for shared IT Coordinators, approving the annual nutritional standards compliance report, approving OSBA membership dues and the Legal Assistance Fund Membership, approving a quote for volleyball equipment, approving the use of calamity days, approving professional development for "The Writing Revolution," accepting a resignation, approving supplemental contracts for coaching positions, and approving volunteer appointments. The Board also approved a proposal for a fair market rental appraisal for the wellness center clinic space, and approved the purchase and trade-in of a Kubota tractor. A holiday bonus for contracted and long-term sub staff was approved. Updates were given on the athletic complex/wellness center construction progress, which remains on schedule for a July 1, 2026 opening. The session concluded with an executive session to consider employment of a public employee and matters required to be confidential by law or statute.

The Board meeting included staff recognition for classroom excellence and a student's dedication to academics. A construction update was provided for the Warrior Wellness Center, noting steady progress toward the completion deadline. Treasurer's items covered the approval of financial reports and discussions regarding HB 164, which proposes shifting district tax increase calculations from property value-based to a GDP inflator cap, potentially impacting future revenue. The Consent Agenda involved approving numerous Neola policy updates, educational service agreements, revisions to evaluation forms, the hiring of supplemental contract staff, and the approval of various purchases and service agreements, including bleacher repair and shade tree installation. The Board also discussed tractor replacement quotes and operational models for the new Wellness Center. An executive session was held to consider the employment and compensation of a public employee and matters required to be confidential by law.