Heather A. Hoover

The Buckeye Local School District board addressed financial concerns amid potential property tax law changes, approving revised appropriation measures for Fiscal Year 2026 and a new four-year forecast. Discussions included the district's reliance on property taxes, wage and benefit increases, rising material costs, and the need for fiscal responsibility. The board scheduled a finance workshop for further review. Legislative updates covered recommendations from Gov. Mike DeWine's Property Tax Reform Workgroup and related bills. Projects were underway, including football field preparation and greenhouse construction. Reports on nutrition indicated increases in breakfast and lunch consumption. The board also considered policies, including one for metal detectors, and approved a scholarship. Staff were lauded for their response to a medical incident, and Homecoming royalty were recognized.

The meeting addressed various topics, including reports from the LPDC and Wellness Committees, discussions on HB 96 and Tech Prep funding, and several personnel and contractual approvals. These included the addition of a substitute teacher, postings for new positions, and the employment of staff members. Contracts were approved with Jefferson County ESC for attorney services and a Public Relations Coordinator. The board also handled financial matters such as approving revised appropriations, authorizing budget adjustments, and accepting grant allocations. Additionally, agreements were approved for student accident insurance, online payment programs, and food service management. The board discussed and approved policies related to computer use, internet safety, and data confidentiality. They also approved renewals and purchases related to software, hardware, and curriculum, as well as student travel for professional development.

The board meeting included presentations from the Health Technology Instructor and HOSA students, as well as a presentation on Senior Recognition. The board approved extended service time and summer employment hours for various staff members, along with the Substitute Teacher and Classified Substitute Lists for the 2025/26 school year. A resignation for retirement was accepted. A contract for in-school nursing services was approved, along with a volunteer to accompany students to a conference. The board authorized arrangements for the JVS Summer Camp exploration program and approved paid work days for a staff member. Additional items included the addition of names to the Substitute Teacher list, acceptance of a resignation, approval of the revised Five Year Forecast, acceptance of medical insurance rates, authorization to solicit price quotations/bids, approval of a board policy, and approval of payments for cost sharing. Renewals of contracts and service agreements were approved, along with inspections of fire extinguishers and suppression equipment. Purchases of office furniture and computer equipment were also approved. The board approved attendance at a Career Tech Superintendent's Meeting, painting of rooms, and purchases of tables, desks, classroom chairs, a subscription to IXL Learning, tools for Power Mechanics, and online curriculum for Cosmetology. Student Fees were approved, along with an MOU and an Agreement for field based experience. The board also approved students attending a HOSA International Conference. Announcements were made for upcoming meetings and ceremonies.

The meeting included recognition of Steve Bezak for his 10-year award, a tour of the Modular House, and presentations on JVS CPTD Vision Goals and Enrollment. Updates were provided on the upcoming Open House and state competition qualifiers. The board authorized sending letters regarding potential Reduction in Force (RIF) and approved the posting of several positions for the 2024/25 school year, including English Instructor and Intervention Specialists. Additionally, they approved contracts, agreements, and purchases, such as employment of a Building Cleaner, payment to Frontline for Absence & Substitute Management, renewal of a Service Agreement with Johnson Controls, and continuance in the Open Enrollment Program. They also approved student trips to state competitions and announced important dates.

The Jefferson County JVS Board of Education held an organizational meeting where members were sworn in, officers were elected, and meeting schedules were set for 2025. The board approved a position bond for the President, established a service fund for board member expenses, reaffirmed compensation and mileage rates, designated the official newspaper, and authorized personnel to file grant applications. Additionally, they authorized the Treasurer to manage funds and the Superintendent to handle personnel matters and act as the district's purchasing agent. The board also renewed membership in the Ohio Education Policy Institute and appointed delegates for the OSBA Capital Conference. At the regular meeting, the board discussed inviting an architectural firm for a presentation and the hiring process for the Superintendent position. They approved the use of substitute teachers for intervention, authorized notification of contract expiration, and approved a resolution of appreciation for board members. Furthermore, they accepted a resignation, approved payments, adopted NEOLA board policies, approved purchases, recognized Black History Month and Career-Technical Education Month, and announced upcoming events.