Wendy Dunham

The agenda for the Regular Meeting included various reports from committees such as Finance, Curriculum & Instruction, and Facilities. Key superintendent recommendations involved the approval of consent items, including consideration of new board policies such as those related to Artificial Intelligence and NIL/Personal Branding Rights, an OHSAA Athletic Membership Resolution for the 2026-27 school year, approval for a Summer Drama Camp, acceptance of donations, approval of College Credit Plus MOU Partnerships, and an agreement with the Educational Service Center of Northeast Ohio. Personnel items covered retirements, resignations, new assignments, and contract renewals for certified, classified, exempt, and administrative staff. The Treasurer's recommendations focused on approving consent items (including minutes from prior meetings in January 2026), approving the February Forecast, and approving the FY2026 Appropriations.

This work session meeting addressed scheduling matters, specifically determining meeting dates for October and November. A key discussion centered on compliance with House Bill 96 regarding financial forecast filings, necessitating the approval of the forecast by October 15th. The board tentatively agreed to present and vote on the budget forecast during the State of the Schools presentation on October 13th, with the regular board meeting scheduled for October 20th. Additionally, the board discussed moving the November 17th meeting date due to conflicts with the Capital Conference and delegate responsibilities, tentatively agreeing to reschedule it for November 24th. The session concluded with a motion to enter executive session to consider the compensation of public employees or officials.

The regular meeting agenda included the swearing-in of new board members, modification and approval of the agenda, and recognition for School Board Appreciation Month. Key superintendent recommendations involved approving several new board policies on second reading, including policies on alcohol/drug testing, student health services, and expense reimbursement. Approvals were sought for an overnight wrestling trip, the Lakeland MOU for the 2025-26 academic year, and delayed start schedules for Kindergarten and Grades 1-12 for the 2026-27 school year. Personnel actions covered retirements, resignations, new assignments for classified staff, and curriculum approvals including compensating cooperating teachers. Treasurer recommendations included approving consent items such as minutes from previous special and regular meetings in December 2025, financial statements for December 2025, a budget amendment for the Spanish Club, a resolution authorizing the advance of local taxes, and approving adjusted Fiscal Year 2026 Appropriations.

The meeting agenda included organizational matters such as administering the Oath of Office to new members, conducting elections for the Board President and Vice-President for 2026, and passing a resolution to establish the time and location for regular monthly Board meetings. Other planned agenda items involved the President's Report, Superintendent's Recommendations, including approval of consent items like authorizing leaves of absence and appointing legal firms, and Treasurer's Recommendations, which included approving consent items and the Tax Budget for Fiscal Year 2027. The agenda also set dates for future events, specifically the March 12th, 2026, Master Plan address and the October 15th, 2026, State of the Schools address.

The meeting opened with roll call and the pledge of allegiance, followed by the approval of the agenda. Key discussion points included recognition for student achievements in Science Olympiad, where the middle school team earned a state bid and medals at states, and the robotics team, who became the 2025 Ohio State FRC state champions. The board also recognized the successful After Prom event, which raised approximately $55,440. A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to honoring several staff members retiring from the high school and middle school, including interventionists, custodians, teachers, and specialists, highlighting their extensive years of service and dedication to the students and community.