Scott Gooding

Key actions during the meeting included the adoption of the agenda and the approval of the mission statement for Big Walnut Local Schools. Business items addressed the establishment of 2026 Board committees (Strategic Planning, Facilities, Curriculum, Finance, Policy) and the solicitation of Requests for Proposals for a comprehensive Strategic Plan. The Board accepted several donations designated for various school libraries and Food Services. Significant financial actions involved the approval of the Five Year Forecast (FYF) Resolution, the FY 2027 Alternative Tax Budget, 2025 Tax Rates, and authorization to file complaints against real property valuations for tax year 2025 for multiple entities including Majestic Pataskala, LLC, WF Estate Holdings LLC, Amazon Data Services, Inc., Elysian Land Holdings LLC, M20 Realty LLC, WR03 LLC, and Pulte Homes of Ohio LLC. Human Resources actions included the approval of 90-day classified contracts, administrative contracts for the 2026/2027 school year, one-year athletic supplemental contracts for the 2025/2026 spring season, various classified contracts, classified substitute workers, and approval of Eagle Extension stipends for session three. The Board also approved unpaid leaves of absence and one resignation.

The meeting commenced with the call to order and a quorum confirmation, followed by the approval of the November 17, 2025 agenda, noting an amendment to attachment 6.13 concerning legal information. The board then approved the minutes of the October 20, 2025 regular scheduled meeting. A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to student recognitions, honoring successful participants in national FFA competitions across Floriculture, Milk Quality and Products, and Food Science and Technology. The Floriculture team placed 11th overall nationally, with several individuals receiving high ratings. The Milk Quality and Products team placed 10th overall in their first national appearance, earning high scores in cheese evaluation. The Food Science and Technology team achieved first place nationally among state-winning teams, with one student earning the top individual exam score nationally. The Superintendent's report covered the successful Veterans Day breakfast and assembly honoring over 150 veterans and families, the conclusion of most fall sports, and the commencement of winter sports. The Student Council report detailed ongoing initiatives, including a schoolwide code drive for clothing donations, planning for a pre-exam stress-fest, painting stadium walkways, and promoting student morale through a gratitude card initiative. Finally, Representative Bethlear presented a commendation to the Treasurer and Chief Financial Officer for receiving the 2025 Distinguished Eagle Award from the International Association of School Business Officials.

The meeting included discussion and approval of the agenda. The student council provided an update, including information on planning for Veteran's Day, a coat drive, and updates on fall sports. The superintendent reported on the Healthy Child Act of 2010, the food service program, and the number of meals served to students. There was also a presentation on the state report card, focusing on achievement, progress, and gap closing.

The meeting commenced with the opening procedures, including the affirmation of the board's mission and the Pledge of Allegiance. Key agenda items involved action on the current agenda and the approval of the minutes from the November 17, 2025 meeting. The Superintendent's report included Student/Staff Awards & Recognitions and a Student Council Report. The Treasurer's report covered the Monthly Financial Update and a Public Records Request Update. Business items included accepting donations totaling $1,673.00 for various schools and programs, approving the Amended Appropriations for Fiscal Year 2026 totaling $90,597,742.63, and approving the 2026/2027 Big Walnut High School Program of Studies. The Board also approved the BWHS Model United Nations student activity account. Under Human Resources, actions included approving a Memorandum of Understanding with OAPSE/AFSCME Local 4 regarding sick leave bank provisions for the 2025-2026 school year, approving an increase to the Classified FTE Staffing Plan from 7.5 to 12 FTE, approving various supplemental contracts, approving classified contracts and substitutes, revising co-curricular supplemental contracts, approving leaves of absence and resignations, approving a stipend change, and affirming numerous district volunteers. Finally, the meeting adjourned at 7:29 pm.

The Board of Education convened for a regular meeting to discuss several key items. The agenda included student awards and recognitions, a student council report, and a superintendent's report. The board also discussed a monthly financial update, a public records request update, and a legislative update regarding property tax reform. Additionally, the board addressed policy matters, including the second reading of policies related to non-discrimination, equal employment opportunity, anti-harassment, and access to equal educational opportunity. The board also discussed a bond issue for the Community Library, including authorizing the issuance of bonds for renovations, additions, and site improvements. Lastly, the board addressed bond refunding, including authorizing the issuance of bonds for the purpose of refunding a portion of bonds previously issued for school facilities.