Kristen R. Foster

The meeting commenced with a Work Session covering updates on spring academic events, facility maintenance, and the 601 Bedford property. Subsequent discussion highlighted student achievements, program promotion, academic growth, reduced discipline incidents, operational improvements, and progress on the Community Learning Center renovation. During the regular session, enrollment data for January 2026 was reviewed. Treasurer's recommendations included the approval of the January 2026 financial statements, approval of the Four-Year Forecast for 2026-2029, and adoption of the tax rate resolution for the upcoming fiscal year. Further recommendations involved accepting various donations, accepting resignations, approving pay increases for a long-term substitute, hiring a bus driver, approving a limited contract for a Cook's Helper/Cashier, approving Memoranda of Understanding with Sandy Hook Promise Foundation, A-Tech/Future Plans (GRIT Project), Youngstown State University (Student Teacher Placement), University of Akron (College Credit Plus), and Stark State College (College Credit Plus). The Board also authorized membership in the Ohio High School Athletic Association for 2026-2027, repealed one policy, revised multiple policies to add compliance officers, and approved corrections/additions to 2025-2026 supplemental coaching contracts. Finally, the 2026-2027 school calendar was approved.

Key discussions focused on upcoming events and fundraising initiatives. The board confirmed plans for the Elementary Valentine's Day parties and set dates for Middle School/High School carnation sales. The Daffin's Spring Fundraiser timeline was established, including pickup dates. The BPA agreed to assume responsibility for the Middle School Halloween Dance. Additional fundraising ideas reviewed included Texas Roadhouse gift card sales and a Shoe Fundraiser. The board also addressed restocking the book vending machine using Scholastic Dollars and supporting a small carnival for 3rd and 4th graders during state testing. Deadlines for elementary yearbook ordering and photo submission were confirmed, and signups commenced for the 4th Grade Farewell Committee. Initial ideas were shared for the End-of-Year Elementary Party. Finally, the creation of a new Remind App group to enhance communication was announced.

The Organizational Meeting of the Board covered the election of officers for the 2026 Board of Education, wherein Dr. Derek Mihalcin was elected President and Mr. Jerry Necastro was elected Vice President. The Board established the regular meeting schedule for 2026 as the 3rd Wednesday of each month at 6:00 p.m. Furthermore, the Board authorized the Superintendent and Treasurer to utilize the Trumbull County Prosecutor and several designated law firms as legal counsel. The Treasurer was appointed as the district official for public records training, and News on the Green and The Tribune were designated as newspapers of record. The Board recommended continuing Interdistrict Open Enrollment and approved extensive authorizations for the Treasurer and Superintendent regarding financial operations, purchasing, personnel, and fund management. Finally, board members were appointed to various committees for 2026, including the Athletic Council and Finance Committee.

The meeting included a 'Work Session' where a director and liaison updated the board on the status of the district's 3-year strategic plan after one year. Key actions taken included the approval of the December 2025 financial statements and the adoption of a resolution accepting tax rates and amounts determined by the Budget Commission of Trumbull County, Ohio, for the fiscal year commencing July 1, 2026. The board also approved a three-year and five-month agreement with BusRight, Inc. for transportation management services. Furthermore, several superintendent recommendations were approved, such as a memorandum of understanding with Kent State University and Youngstown State University for College Credit Plus programs, the employment of a certified tutor, an increase in pay for a long-term substitute teacher, the repeal of Policy 3220.03 regarding teacher evaluation, the assignment of compliance officers, and the approval of 2025-2026 supplemental contracts for assistant coaches. The Superintendent also reported on the commencement of construction at 601 Bedford.

Key discussions during the meeting included the treasurer's report and a review of classroom party procedures regarding arrival time, sign-in protocol, student sign-out, and cleanup. It was noted that MS/HS cookie distribution will coincide with class parties. Progress on Santa's workshop, which concludes on December 17th, was reviewed. The group discussed gifting inspirational message pens to all BE staff members. Information was provided regarding the Elementary Yearbook deadline extension to January 31st, including new online ordering features and a link for parents and staff to upload photos, subject to school appropriateness approval. The next meeting will focus on planning for Valentine's Day parties and the Carnation sale.