Courtney Griffiths

The board meeting featured a presentation of the Helen Schaefer Fund for Teachers award to two recipients who will explore different cultures to enhance student learning. Visitor comments addressed concerns regarding the athletic department's coaching staff and the negative impact on student participation. The treasurer presented financial reports, including an update on the district's successful financial reduction plan which achieved 9.4 million in savings. The treasurer also recommended placing an 8.9 million continuous operating levy on the November 2026 ballot to address long-term deficit spending. The superintendent received approval for numerous student service and transportation contracts for the upcoming school year.

The meeting included various recognitions for student achievements in choir, band, basketball, and wrestling. The Board addressed financial matters, including a review of the personnel-related cost savings from the reduction plan and approved insurance and COBRA rates. Additionally, the Board authorized several service agreements, including a primary service agreement with the County ESC, a mental health service agreement, and a partnership with LCC for an early college program. The Board also approved new math curricula for multiple grade levels, graduation lists for early college and high school seniors, and revisions to previous reduction in force resolutions.

The board conducted an organizational meeting that included swearing in new members, electing the board president and vice president, and adopting Robert's Rules of Order. Key business items approved included the annual board meeting schedule, authorization for student teacher placement agreements, establishment of a board service fund, and the appointment of legal counsel. Additionally, the treasurer provided updates on new property tax reform legislation and its anticipated impact on district revenue, and the superintendent obtained approval for a contract with the National Youth Advocate Program and an easement for a drainage project.

The board meeting featured a recognition ceremony for the middle school eighth-grade football championship team and their coaches. A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to a presentation by the superintendent and treasurer regarding the district's severe financial situation. The discussion highlighted the impact of the failed November levy issues and the loss of various state and federal funding sources, necessitating approximately $9 million in budget cuts for the upcoming school year. The board and a representative of the local education association discussed the potential impact of these cuts on staffing, services, and the need for continued advocacy for fair state-level school funding.

The board meeting included the recognition of multiple school buildings with awards for positive behavior intervention supports and a district-wide recognition in the northeast Ohio region. Financial action items involved accepting the monthly financial report and acknowledging community donations. An expulsion hearing was scheduled. The board discussed the framework for a reduction plan and updates to the financial forecast. Superintendent action items included the approval of an information technology cyber security plan, a wellness center contract, and a clinical affiliation agreement for occupational therapy services. Personnel actions covered appointments of substitutes, resignations, and retirements of various staff members. Additionally, various athletic supplements and game worker appointments were approved.