Michael Recktenwalt

The board meeting included several key actions such as the recognition of student awards and achievements, the approval of various staffing changes including retirements and new hires, and the approval of instructional fees for the upcoming school year. The board also passed resolutions concerning the employment of consultants for the Legacy Wall and Wellness Center projects, approved a lease agreement for an administrative office room, and authorized the advertisement and purchase of new school buses. Additionally, the board approved a contract for stadium track resurfacing, painting services for the community center, and paving work at district facilities. Other business included adopting updated NEOLA policies, renewing a substitute management contract, and establishing a Title III EL consortium contract. A discussion on public concerns regarding school funding and federal budget cuts was also noted.

The meeting included the addition of a Title 3 English Learner consortium contract with the Stark County Educational Service Center to the consent agenda. The superintendent presented the Trojan Pride Award to a media consultant for her dedicated service to the district and recognized several board members for their achievements in training and service through the Ohio School Boards Association. A student representative presented an overview of the Big Red Pep Club, highlighting their activities focused on positivity, encouragement, and community engagement. Additionally, leadership team reports were provided, acknowledging student achievements in the county math tournament and the Project Lead The Way showcase.

The Board passed a resolution authorizing the advertisement for bids concerning the new Wellness Center room renovation project located at the District Offices and Community Center, based on the specifications prepared by Cordogan Clark and Associates, Inc.

The board meeting included reports on district curriculum, math programs, and legislative updates. Key actions taken include the acceptance of donations and grants for school programs, the approval of a speech services contract, and various personnel actions, including the hiring of certificated and classified staff, the acceptance of a teacher resignation, and the approval of supplemental contracts. The board also reviewed and adopted several NEOLA policy revisions, authorized summer temporary positions, and approved administrative contracts for district leadership. Additionally, the meeting included a review of participation in a student accident insurance program and the recognition of students of the month.

The board meeting featured a comprehensive report from the superintendent detailing recent district accomplishments, including student achievements in a regional spelling bee, speech team performance at the state tournament, success in girls' basketball and wrestling, and recognition for the indoor track team. Additional highlights included the presentation of the Spirit of Tuscross County award to the district by the Special Olympics and the report on a donation to the Rainbow Connection telethon. Furthermore, the board reviewed a lease agreement proposal with the Tuscross County United Soccer Association to address field capacity needs for high school-level teams. Representatives presented on the school's Hope Squad, outlining its mission to foster a supportive community, maintain a recharge room, and lead mental health initiatives such as Trojan Time activities focused on self-care, gratitude, and resilience. Finally, the board discussed joining a new athletic conference scheduled for the 2028-2029 school year.