Melissa McClure Buckalew

The meeting focused on a public hearing for the tax budget calendar year of 2026, which is for fiscal year 2027 and runs through the first half of fiscal year 2028. Discussion covered the definition and statutory requirements of the tax budget, which includes projections for revenue and expenses, and sets tax rates for the following year. Key components reviewed included schedules of levies (inside and outside the 10 mil limitation), historical data comparisons, permanent improvement amounts, and the debt schedule. The presenter noted that the budget incorporates recent state property tax reform legislation, which impacts revenue projections by changing the 20-mil floor. Detailed financial exhibits were presented covering the general fund, debt service fund (emphasizing cash flow requirements for general obligation debt payments), special revenue funds (including grant reimbursement schedules), capital projects, and agency funds. The document must be adopted by January 15th, reviewed by the Warren County Budget Commission, and finally authorized by the Board of Education by April 1st.

The meeting commenced with the formal call to order and roll call. Key discussions included thanking maintenance staff for their work in difficult weather conditions. The agenda was adopted. Discussion centered on a contract approval with David C. Demiso Incorporated for real estate tax matters and border revision cases, involving clarifications regarding the necessity of specialized external counsel for this specific legal area versus general counsel services. The board also addressed Resolution 260005, declaring an urgent necessity to address significant water damage from a leaking roof at the central office, with a recommendation to proceed with American Roofing due to urgency and prior positive experience, while still allowing for the submission of materially lower bids under specific weather conditions. Furthermore, a discussion took place regarding open enrollment policies, considering alternatives such as restricting open enrollment solely to staff children to better manage student influx, given the current funding guarantee status. Finally, the Transportation Department provided a presentation detailing historical growth, current structure (including vehicle fleet size and daily mileage), challenges related to recruitment, and recommendations for a hiring bonus and attendant attendance incentive.

The meeting commenced with the pledge of allegiance and the presentation of awards. The Little Miami Character Award, focusing on the trait of respect, was presented to five students from various schools. The Panther Pride Award recognized a member of the transportation department for outstanding compassion and teamwork shown during a winter storm preparation period. Following this, the board adopted the amended agenda, which included a field trip item and a territory transfer. Clarifications were made regarding the updated school board visit policy, emphasizing the requirement for background checks for unsupervised visits. A discussion ensued regarding the "Hate Does Not Belong Here" poster, with a focus on maintaining respect and grace among members. The superintendent's comments included a presentation on the new English Language Arts (ELA) program, Benchmark Advance, detailing the three-layer system of support involving building administrators, literacy coaches, and ELA leads. The presentation highlighted teacher feedback, noting positive aspects like the curriculum's rigor and resource availability, while also addressing challenges in writing instruction. The district secured free writing revolution training through a partnership with the University of Cincinnati to enhance writing strategies, which is intended to supplement, not replace, the Benchmark Advance program. Board members questioned the anticipated timeline for seeing improvements from the program implementation.

The meeting began with the roll call and the pledge of allegiance, followed by the recognition of outstanding individuals through the Panther Character Award, highlighting five students for their commitment: Carter Wolfrram, Leila Corin, Blake Wesley, Leah Kenneth, and Hunter McKan. A special recognition was given to middle school teacher Mr. Seth Meyers for his passion, creativity, and dedication, particularly in leading enrichment clubs like Harry Potter and Star Wars clubs. The board also heard comments from Hamilton Township Administrator Jeff Wright and Police Chief Scott Hughes, who publicly thanked the school district staff for their exceptional assistance and support during the tragic passing of Officer Megan Graham, specifically noting the arrangements made for her memorial service during Thanksgiving weekend. A board report from Mr. Ray Warick on the Warren County Career Center detailed plans for facility expansion to accommodate increased enrollment, especially in high-demand programs like heavy equipment operation, and the plan to address the complex arrangement for healthcare classes by selecting a design company and paying off a bond.

The meeting commenced with the reading of the mission statement, focusing on ensuring each graduate is college and career ready. A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to recognizing departing board members, Mary Elmer and Bobby Grace, for their years of service, with special tributes highlighting Grace's 28 years of dedication, which included the announcement of the Bobby Grace Career Education Scholarship. The board conducted routine business, including the adoption of the agenda and acceptance of minutes. Financial matters included the approval of several contracts, such as agreements with the Warren County Educational Service Center for special education placement, Securious 360 for cyber protection, and Emerge Healthcare Staffing. Additionally, the board approved a donation of $2,450 from the Little Miami Athletic Boosters to supplement costs.