Sarah Bandza

The board conducted a retreat focused on governance, operating procedures, and meeting structure. Key discussions included reviewing school board powers and ethics, updating the Board Handbook, and exploring strategies to enhance transparency and community engagement, such as creating a centralized contact method and increasing board visibility. Additionally, the board evaluated its committee structure, discussed potential long-term priorities such as parent academies and joint meetings with the city council, and reviewed the application process for a student representative position. The board also approved the appointment of a Treasurer Pro-Tempore for a future meeting.

The board conducted an IDEA hearing focused on the allocation of federal funds for students with special needs for the upcoming fiscal year. The discussion covered the distribution of funds to nonpublic schools, the support for salaries of staff assisting students with disabilities, and specific allocations for early childhood special education services and the Parent Mentor Project.

The board meeting included a comprehensive update on staff wellness initiatives, emphasizing the eight dimensions of wellness as a framework to support employee well-being, retention, and productivity. Key topics included the use of data from staff surveys to guide future interventions, the implementation of staff reset rooms in district buildings, the introduction of wellness challenges, and ongoing efforts to secure partnerships for staff support. The academic department also presented a new curriculum for AP Biology. Additionally, the board recognized upcoming staff retirements and welcomed a new teacher.

The Board of Education meeting included public hearings, reports, and various superintendent and treasurer recommendations. Key agenda items included the approval of the 2026 Summer School proposal, an agreement for field-based experiences with John Carroll University, the purchase of a Paxton/Patterson learning system, adoption of an AP Statistics textbook, an addendum quote for professional scanning services, and an electricity purchase program agreement via the Ohio Schools Council. The Board also authorized BWC grant equipment, a seal coat project for multiple district parking lots, and various policy revisions. Additionally, the Board approved the 2026-2027 school tax rate resolution, a bond issuance for refunding debt charges, changes to 2026 board meeting schedules, adoption of board guiding principles, and revisions to the board member handbook.

The strategic plan, 'Destination 2027,' aims to ensure all students have access to learning experiences that prepare them for their future. Key priorities include providing dynamic and innovative lessons, fostering inclusive school cultures, supporting staff, aligning systems for student achievement, and keeping the community informed. The plan's ultimate vision is for students to graduate with choices, opportunities, and preparedness for enlistment, enrollment, employment, or entrepreneurship.