Linda McKibben

The meeting featured a presentation from Scouting America regarding their local programs and contributions to community service. The Superintendent provided updates on upcoming volunteer opportunities for the Korean and World War II memorial walls, a report on the multilingual learner program, and news about the district receiving a community partner award from the Salvation Army. Additional discussions covered the fine arts show recap, the Heartland Technical Education Center farewell assembly, and upcoming academic recognition events. The meeting also addressed scheduled summer facility projects and the status of future meetings.

The board meeting agenda focused on several discussion items including reading improvement plans, recaps of the Easter Egg hunt and the PTO Magic Show, recognition of a recipient of the NW-OIAAA Meritorious Service Award, and an update on the open enrollment application process. Other topics included the Ashland City Schools Foundation's honor graduate cards and planning for an emergency management drill. The board also planned for an executive session to address matters related to the employment of a public official.

The board meeting included the recognition of various students and staff members, an update on the business advisory council, discussion on state educational funding, and a reminder regarding transportation for the upcoming school year. Financial business included the approval of various service contracts and resolutions to file complaints against property tax valuations. The board also addressed personnel recommendations for certificated and support staff, approved the sale of the Lincoln Property to the city, and passed a resolution for Love the Bus Month. An executive session was held to discuss negotiations and collective bargaining with public employees.

The meeting included the oath of office for new board members, election of the board president and vice-president, and the appointment of a board member to the Ashland County-West Holmes Career Center Board of Education. The board established regular meeting dates and times, created a board service fund, and adopted various standing authorizations for financial and operational management. Furthermore, the board adopted the fiscal year 2027 tax budget, approved a change to the classified substitute pay rate, established a nutrition standards policy, and approved legal counsel for the district.

The work session focused on preparations for the upcoming school year. Discussion items included a recap of back to school night, information regarding free and reduced meal programs, the use of Final Forms and Bloomz platforms, and scheduling details for staff convocation and school open houses. Additionally, the Board reviewed the start of school timeline, including professional development days, orientations, and the schedule for initial student attendance days. Plans for athletic events, specifically the meet the team night and early home football games, were also outlined.