Joshua Amstutz

The meeting commenced with a community connection activity focused on fostering belonging and connectedness among attendees. The remainder of the session was dedicated to an extensive series of district honors, recognitions, and gifts. This included celebrating student athletes, art gallery award recipients from the primary, elementary, and intermediate schools, and participants in the Taft Museum of Art's artist reaching classrooms program. The board also recognized teachers for their excellence and contributions to the district, and honored representatives from Ohio Valley Goodwill Industries for their efforts in piloting a workforce readiness program.

The meeting included reports on the land development project by Maronda Homes, the New Tech Network, the Miami University Early College Academy program, and the expulsion appeal process. The Treasurer presented the investment and quarterly financial reports. The board conducted two executive sessions to discuss negotiations, collective bargaining, compensation of public employees, and the appointment and employment of a public employee.

The board conducted its organizational meeting, which included the election of the president and vice president and the administration of their respective oaths. The board established a schedule for regular meetings and work sessions for the upcoming year. Financial actions included the adoption of the 2014 fiscal year tax budget, authorization of official signatures for bank accounts, and directives regarding the investment of funds. Furthermore, the board authorized the receipt of advance tax payments, approved fund transfers, and appointed an interim-superintendent to manage student activity accounts. Additional administrative actions included the authorization of then-and-now certificates, the appointment of a purchasing agent, and the adoption of a resolution regarding the acceptance of resignations. The board also made various liaison and committee appointments and approved memberships in several professional school board organizations.

The meeting included the recognition of district staff and students for achievements at the World Choir Games, Apple Awards, and Community Spirit awards. The Treasurer's reports for July 2012 were filed, and investments were approved. The Board passed the Permanent Appropriation Resolution for FY 2013 and approved various personnel schedules, including resignations, new hires, and supplemental contract assignments. Additional agenda items covered the approval of the high school fee schedule, revisions to Board policies regarding student promotion and internet usage, and the authorization of a facilities assistance program. The Board also addressed transportation issues, appointed delegates to the OSBA Capital Conference, and held an executive session to discuss legal matters and pending litigation.

The Board met to discuss the search process for a new Superintendent. Representatives from the Ohio School Boards Association presented on the search process, followed by a question and answer session. The Board approved a motion to contract with the Ohio School Boards Association to facilitate a nationwide search for a new superintendent for a fee of $6,000.00 plus expenses.