001Well, >> Good evening, Mr. >> Welcome to this regular meeting for Monday, May 18th. >> First time in 19 years. Sorry about my voice. I'm getting over a hog. So bear with me. >> Uh, welcome to the regular meeting for Monday, May 18th, 2026. If we can all please stand for the pledge of allegiance. I pledge algiance to the flag of the United States of America and the standice for all >> Mr. Griby >> here >> Mrs. McCarthy >> here Mr. Vasa >> here >> Mr. Mr. Wman >> here. >> Finalization of the agenda. Is there anything to add or remove? >> The agenda is final as presented. >> Thank you. It is recommended that the board of education approved a written summary of the regular and special minutes for the meetings on April 7th,
0022026 and April 21st, 2026. >> Second move by Miss McCarthy, second by Mr. Welman. Roll call, please. >> Mrs. McCarthy, yes. >> Mr. Wman, >> yes. >> Mr. Griffy, >> yes. Mr. Haynes. >> Yes. >> Take your back. >> Yes. >> Okay. We'll move right up next. >> Good evening and good evening to all of our families in attendance tonight. Uh we are so excited that all of you could come join us for what I think is one of my most favorite board meetings of the year. Uh but tonight we have the special privilege to recognize and celebrate all of our retirees from 2026. So these individuals whose dedication, compassion, and commitment have really helped shape our North Ridgeville City Schools community for generations of students, families, and colleagues. This year, 14 remarkable employees are
003retiring, representing a combined 333 years of service to our district that deserves an applause. So 333 years is truly extraordinary and really reflects and dedication, the leadership, the care and the support for all of our students within our schools. So on behalf of the board of education and our entire school community, we extend our deepest gratitude for the lasting impact each of these individuals has made on the North Bridge City Schools. Tonight we are honored to celebrate their careers, their accomplishments, and the legacy they all leave behind. So let's begin with a recognition of the class of 2026. When I call your name, will you please join? >> Mrs. Rhonda Carson. Rhonda Carson has been a dedicated and compassionate member of the North Richville City Schools since she was first hired as a building nurse
004in 2007. She later became our district nurse in the 2019 2020 school year if you all remember what happened back then and has held this role ever since. Throughout her career, Rhonda built a legacy of care, professionalism, and commitment to students and staff. Known for her patience, kindness, and strong work ethic, Rhonda has been a truly dependable presence and a valued colleague. She will be greatly missed by all of those who had the pleasure to work with her. As she retires, we wish her all the best in this next chapter filled with time spent with family, new adventures, and perhaps mastering even the art of quil making. >> Congratulations. Thank you. >> Mrs. Julie Cohan, Julie Cohan began her career with North Ridgeville City Schools in 1994 as a high school science teacher. Over more
005than three decades of service, she has contributed to the school community in a variety of roles beyond the classroom. In addition to teaching, Julie has coached volleyball, served as our project care facilitator, and advised multiple classes. She has supported students through her work with the Apex Credit Recovery Program and as a GSA club adviser. Julie has also been actively involved in shaping the school's academic programs, contributing to science curriculum writing, serving as our science department head, mentoring fellow teachers, and participating in the local professional development committee. Today, last meeting? >> It was. Okay. We are grateful for her many years of service and contributions to the district and wish her the best in her retirement. Congratulations, retired. You probably figured, but just so you know, after we're done talking about all the amazing things you've
006all accomplished, we are going to take some photos. So, please don't leave if you don't have to. Our next retiree is not going to be here with us tonight, but I would like to honor Mrs. Linda Donalan. Linda Donalin is retiring after 25 years of dedicated service to our district. She began her career in 2001 in the food service department and over the years served in a variety of roles across several buildings including the middle school, Wilcox Elementary, the academic center and Ranger High-Tech Academy where she will finish her career as our head cashier. Throughout her time, Linda has been a valued team member whose hard work and positive impact have been felt by many. As she begins this next chapter, she looks forward to spending more time with her family. We thank Linda for
007her years of service and wish her a happy and fulfilling retirement. Congratulations, Thank you. >> Heather Hulik's impact on North Ridgeville City Schools spans more than three decades, beginning in 1992 when she was hired as a part-time physical education teacher at the elementary level. Over the years, she shared her passion for student wellness across multiple buildings, including time at the middle and high school before spending many years at Willox Elementary. Following its closure in 2017, she returned to the high school and to NAC where she continues to inspire students. Heather's legacy reaches far beyond the classroom. She helped establish the foundation for a muchneeded weight room at NRHS through grants and donations and consistently led fundraising and outreach efforts to promote active healthy lifestyles. At Willox, she launched the Walk to School initiative and played
008a key role in creating the Alex Sysmore Memorial Playground, enhancing both safety and inclusivity while honoring a beloved student. A founding adviser of the anti-bullying club, Heather has always believed in supporting the whole child. >> She meets every student where they are, embracing individual strengths and challenges, and has made a lasting impact on countless learners, especially those in our ABLE program by helping them recognize their own abilities. Her creativity, energy, and commitment to students will leave a lasting impact and legacy throughout our district. >> Thank you. Thank you. Mrs. Psaros Kanye Casaros began her career in the district in 2001 as a part-time physical education teacher serving both elementary and middle school students before transitioning to a full-time role in 2008. Over the years, she has supported students across multiple grade levels and buildings while
009contributing to curriculum development, building leadership teams, and PBIS initiatives. Tanya has also helped create meaningful wellness programming, including health fairs, wellness days, and a variety of student centered activities and fundraisers. Her commitment to student engagement is evident in the many programs she has led and supported. From organizing field days and schoolwide events to launching new opportunities like the high school Red Cross clubs, Tanya consistently went above and beyond to create inclusive, engaging experiences that promote health, wellness, and community. Beyond the classroom, Tanya has built a life centered on family and service. She and her husband Pete, who recently retired, have raised four sons and are now enjoying time with their growing family, including their grandchildren. In retirement, they look forward to traveling and spending more time together. Congratulations, >> Mrs. Sher. Miss Cheryl Hobach Cheryl
010Kovatch began her career in North Ridgeville in 2004 as an early childhood intervention specialist. She worked in both of our elementary and preschool buildings, but spent the majority of her career with our youngest learners. Known to many as Miss Cheryl, she was often the first point of contact for families seeking support for their young children. She compassionately guided them through the screening and evaluation process while providing individualized and small groupoup interventions. Her work took her throughout the community. She partnered with families, daycarees, and preschools, always bringing creativity, warmth, and care to her students. In addition to her work with students, Cheryl contributed to numerous committees and leadership roles including preschool play-based assessments, mini ranger summer camp, building and building leadership team and also as the special education chair. She also served as a mentor coordinator
011and active union member. Cheryl's dedication has made a lasting impact on our students, families, and colleagues, and can celebrate many years of service as she begins her well earned retirement. Mr. Gary Gord. Gary Morris joined NRCS in 2015 at a c as a custodian at Field Suite Preschool before transitioning to the district's maintenance department in November 2020 2016 as a general maintenance worker. In that role, he became a dependable and valued member of the team, serving the district with dedication until his retirement in December of 2025. Outside of work, Gary enjoys camping and spending time with his family. He is a proud and devoted supporter of his grandchildren, rarely missing an opportunity to cheer them on in their sporting events. Gary leaves behind a legacy of commitment, reliability, and deep appreciation for the moment spent
012with those he loves. Congratulations, Gary. Somebody very close to Gary is marrying Boris. Mary Morris began her journey with the district in 1998 as a substitute in the cafeteria and was officially hired in 1999 in the food service department. Over the years, she served in several schools, including Willox Elementary, the high school, and the middle school, where she ultimately became the head cook. She continued in that leadership role until the middle school closed in 2017, then will finish her career here at the academic center. Throughout her time with the district, Mary grew into a dedicated and respected leader. Her kindness, strong work ethic, and genuine care for others have touched countless students and colleagues. As she enters retirement, Mary looks forward to spending time with her husband, her two children, and six grandchildren. She will
013be truly missed, and we wish her all the happiness in this next chapter. Mrs. Melissa Phelps is not attending, but I'd like to share a little bit about Melissa. She began her career with the North Ridgeville City Schools in 1996 as a school bus driver in the transportation department. Over the years, she became a trusted and respected onboard instructor, helping train and mentor new drivers with a blend of honesty, humor, and caring. In the two thou 2017 2018 school year, Melissa transitioned into the role of administrative assistant in transportation where she continued to be a steady, knowledgeable presence until her retirement earlier this year. Across three decades of service, Melissa built more than a career. She built lasting relationships and unforgettable memories. She has been a constant source of support to her colleagues. From bus
014routes and summer wash days to everyday conversations that turned into lifelong friendships, Melissa's impact goes far beyond her role. To many, she is not just a coworker, but family. As she begins her next chapter, we celebrate a career filled with dedication, laughter, and a legacy that will be truly missed. Congratulations, Melissa. Mrs. Lucha Rivera Swinde. Lucha Rivera Swinde began her career with North Ridgeville City Schools in 1993 as a lunch monitor at the middle school. The following year, she stepped into a paraprofessional role at Will Cox Elementary, beginning a long and meaningful journey supporting students across the district. Over the years, Luch has served in a variety of roles in building, including time at the middle school, Liberty Elementary, the academic center, and most recently Ranger High-Tech Academy, where she will conclude her career. Throughout
015her more than three decades of service, Lucha has been not only known for her dedication to students, but for her extraordinary kindness, compassion, and selflessness. To those who have had the privilege of working alongside her, she has been far more than a colleague. She has been a trusted friend, a source of support, and in one remarkable instance, a true lifesaver. Her impact reaches far beyond the classroom, touching lives in ways that words can hardly capture. As Lucha begins this well-deserved next chapter, we celebrate a career defi defined by generosity, heart, and a legacy that will never be forgotten. Congratulations. Hey, Mrs. Donna Schindler, who also was unable to be here tonight. Uh, Donna has been a dedicated member of North Regional City School's transportation department since 2013 when she was hired as a school bus
016driver. Over the past 13 years, Donna has become known not only for her reliability, but for her commitment to safety, transporting students to and from school each and every day. She approached her role with professionalism and care, always putting students first. Donna also developed an efficient and unique approach to student pickup, affectionately known as the hot seat, which reflected both her organization and her ability to connect with students. Beyond her daily routes, Donna was always willing to lend a hand to fellow drivers, demonstrating true teamwork and a positive spirit. Her dedication to the transportation team along with her friendly nature made her a valued colleague and friend. Donna will be greatly missed by students, staff, and the entire transportation department. And we wish her all the best in her well- earned retirement. Also unable to
017join us tonight is Mr. Chuck Sinsel. Chuck Sincl has dedicated nearly four decades to education, teaching industrial technology and sharing his expertise with students across multiple districts before joining North Ridgeville City Schools in 2019. In addition to his work in the classroom, he has coached football, golf, track, and basketball and has served in leadership roles supporting both his department and building. One of the things that stands out most about Shock is the connection he builds with students. >> It's a common sight to see students gathered around his desk before and after class, simply wanting to talk and spend time with him. His approachable nature and genuine care have made a lasting impression on the many students he has taught over the years. As Chuck enters retirement, he looks forward to spending more time on the
018golf course and welcoming a new role as a grandfather. We thank him for his years of dedication and the positive impact he has made on students and colleagues alike. And we wish him all the best in this exciting next chapter. >> Donna Wilson Don Wilson is retiring after 31 years of dedicated service to our district. She began her career in 1995 as a cashier and through her hard work and commitment grew into a cook serving in multiple buildings including Clear North Elementary, the middle school and the academic center. Throughout her career, Donna has been a valued team member whose contribution and positive presence will be greatly missed. In retirement, she looks forward to spending time voting and enjoying her well-earned time off. We thank Donna for her years of service and wish her all the
019very best. And last, but certainly not least, Mr. Don Wolf, who I believe is joining us on Zoom. >> Don Wolf began his career with NRCS in 2001 as a night custodian serving both the high school and later the middle school before advancing to head custodian roles in each building. Over the years, he became a steady and trusted presence, eventually transitioning to the maintenance department in 2008 as a general maintenance worker and later specializing as a skilled maintenance worker in plumbing from 2013 until now. Prior to joining NRCS, Don dedicated 30 years as a milright at LTV Steel, where he built the deep knowledge, the hands-on expertise that defined his work throughout his career. Don's ability to repair, build, and problem solve is truly unmatched. And his knowledge from his years at the mill is
020something that can never be replaced. >> Beyond his work, he is a talented woodworker known for crafting beautiful aderond chairs and many other pieces. >> He's also a great storyteller who treasures his family and shares a special bond with his wife, Carrot. Don leaves behind a legacy of skill, dedication, and craftsmanship along with lasting memories for all who've had the privilege of working alongside. >> Congratulations. Board of Education, President Baka, Vice President McCarthy, board members, present to you the class of 2026. Congratulations once again to all of our retirees. You truly are remarkable. Reading through these, it's always so much fun for me to hear about all of the things that you've accomplished even prior to your time here in North Ridgeville and beyond. But we do wish you well in your next chapter and
021all the things that you look to accomplish in your retirement. Congratulations to all our retirees. I wish you the very best going into retirement. I hope you have many blessed years of spending time with family and grandkids traveling. Those that want to play golf, I hope your handicap gets better. Mr. Wolf, if you're still with us, I hope we're going to keep him on speed dial for two years because there's a lot of stuff at the old high school that he's only aware of. Uh so we might need you. But again, congratulations to all of you and enjoy your retirement. >> Congratulations. >> All right, we're going to take a brief recess for pictures. >> Perfect. >> Thank you. >> All right, we're going to go ahead and call this meeting back to order. It
022is recommended that the board of education approve the consent agenda resolution. >> That part I always like to have some announcements this evening. >> Thank you, Becca. from death. >> Today I had the pleasure and the privilege attending the JAPS senior recognition ceremony where much like our kids from graduation get kids come up and get their certificates wearing their reports for the different trades they're part of. And at this event we had our senior speaker was Olivia Bordon who completed her culinary arts degree as their certification certificate. Uh she was fantastic represented. >> And uh speaking of senior events, commencement is tomorrow. It's outdoors. >> So superintendent Sarah, I'm gonna pass that to you. Tell us what happens if it rains. >> Absolutely. So, if we were to cancel um and move to our rain
023day, you'll know that this evening via parent square. If because right now we are thinking that it looks good, it might rain later. You might get a notification that we may move the time back 30 minutes to accommodate for weather moving in a little bit later. But again, all of that communication will go out, be apparent, square, and be very clear as to what is happening. >> Thank you. Thank you. >> There's an opportunity for hearing of the public. If anybody in attendance this evening would like to address the board of education, now's your chance. >> All right, we'll move into the agenda. It is recommended the board of education approve the consent agenda resolution as presented. moved by Miss McCarthy. Second by Mr. Haynes. Was there any discussion? >> Roll call, please. >> Mrs.
024McCarthy. >> Yes. >> Mr. Haynes. >> Yes. >> Mr. Griffby. >> Yes. >> Mr. Baka. >> Yes. >> Mr. W. Report. M. McCarthy. >> Thank you, Mr. Baka. There are four items on the finance report this evening. First, it's recommended the board of education approve the financial statements and reports for April 2026. Second item is the adoption of the estimated resources and appropriations amendment for fiscal year 2026. The third item is the updated financial forecast and assumptions report and the final item is the transfer of funds from the general fund to athletics as >> I move to approve all of these items in one reading. Second move by M. McCarthy. Second by Mr. Griggsby. >> Any discussion? >> Roll call, please. >> Mrs. McCarthy. >> Yes. >> Mr. Griggby. >> Yes. >> Mr. Haynes. >>
025Yes. >> Mr. Vaka. >> Yes. >> Mr. W. >> Yes. >> We have two items under building and operations report. First, we have a food service management contract. This resolution authorizes the district to move forward with contract negotiations with Aramark after completing the RFP process for food service management services. Following a review of all submitted proposals, administration determined that Aramark provides the best overall value for North Ridge City Schools. I move to approve approve the buildings and operations item in motion by myself, second by Mr. Haynes. Is there any discussion? Roll call, please. >> Mr. Baka, >> yes. >> Mr. Haynes, >> yes. >> Mr. Griezby, >> yes. >> Mrs. McCarthy, >> yes. >> Mr. W. >> Yes. >> And we have another item under buildings and operations. We have a school project GMP amendment
026number four modification. This resolution approves adding two bid alternatives to the new high school crop, upgraded wood flooring for the auxiliary gymnasium, and an acoustical shelf for the performing arts theater. The additions are possible due to the project remaining well under budget and will enhance both the athletic and performance art spaces for students and community. I move to approve this building and operations report in one reading. >> Second. >> Moved by myself, second by Miss McCarthy. Is there any discussion? Roll call, please. >> Mr. Vaka, >> yes. >> Mrs. McCarthy, >> yes. Mr. Griggby, >> yes. >> Mr. Haynes, >> yes. >> Mr. Holden, >> yes. the human resources report. Mr. Hines, >> we have a few items considered on your human resources report. one certified staff leave replacement contract, one support staff appointment, 10
027NREA supplemental contracts, 12 non NREA supplemental contracts, 23 ESY bus aid bus driver contracts, six ESY certified staff contracts, 12 ESY special education aid contracts, two ESY special education aid substitute contracts, 10 student summer workers and technology department contracts. One certified staff special education evaluation contract. Four unpaid volunteer recognitions. Two support staff adjustments. Two certified staff leave of absence. Two support staff leave of absence. One certified staff resignation. And four staff four support staff resignations. I move to approve the human resource item by Mr. Hay. Second by Mr. Wman. Is there any discussion? >> Roll call, please. >> Mr. Haynes, >> yes. >> Mr. Welman. >> Yes. >> Mr. Griggby. >> Yes. >> Mrs. McCarthy. >> Yes. Mr. Bach. >> Yes. Thank you. Good evening. Um I am excited to announce um that we do
028have a new district nurse. Um obviously with all of the festivities early in the meeting. Uh a big congratulations and thank you uh for all of the service of our retirees, but one of those special retirees was Mrs. Ron Parson who was our district nurse. And so we have gone through the process um of selecting a new nurse and I would love to introduce Mandy Fleming if she would join me up here. All right. So um it's so exciting to have her here with us. We thought it was really important. Um our district nursing services are phenomenal here in this district. It's something that we are very proud of. We have a licensed nurse in all of our clinics um which not most districts cannot say. And so it's very um important for our students
029that they we are seeing experts every day. Um and they do a great job as a team and Mandy's been part of that team for the last two years. She's been with us um at Liberty Elementary for the past two years and so she has worked here as a building nurse. Um she has done a phenomenal job and has a lot of great ideas. Every district by law does need a district nurse. Um, and so in addition, uh, no worries to our families because I know they all love her at Liberty. She will still remain at Liberty next year. She wants to stay. She loves it there. Um, loves the age group, loves the staff there and and wants to stay. But she, in addition to those building nurse responsibilities, will take on district nursing
030um, which is a licensed program in the state of Ohio. So, she has been finishing up. She's she's been a registered nurse. She came to us from Mercy Hospital with years and years of experience um in both the cardiac unit and um in pediatrics. And so we you know that experience um will do wonderful things. But as a district nurse, she gets to kind of oversee the entire district's um processes, policies. Um she gets to work with our students on some of their u most, you know, significant medical needs and those plans with parents. uh she gets to coordinate a lot with um wellness programs for both of our students and our staff. Um she's already got a lot of great ideas and has implemented some of those things at at Liberty already which she's
031thrilled to bring um to the rest of the district and just um a lot of excitement as a you know a longtime resident um and family member and has her kids here in the district. She's very um engaged and excited uh for this opportunity. So welcome aboard. Congratulations. >> Thank you. >> So, is she going to retire before you do, Roger? >> All right. Is recommended to the board of education and during this regular meeting by M. McCarthy, second by Mr. Griggsby. Roll call, please. >> Is it McCarthy? Yes. Mr. Griby. >> Yes. >> Mr. Haynes. >> Yes. >> Mrs. >> Mr. Va. >> Yes. >> Mr. Wman. >> Yes. >> Six points. United States.