001And do you And do you still plan on continuing to try to play volleyball? Is that Or or or do you want to hold on to volleyball? Um I think once I graduate, I'll probably be letting volleyball go. I don't see myself going and playing in college. I just feel like once I go I want to major in biology, so I think I'll just focus on my major. But it really depends, honestly. I mean, I have time. Not a lot, but >> [laughter] >> I have enough time to figure out whether I decide to play. If I do If I do decide to play, I don't see myself going to Tennessee. Okay. I'll probably go somewhere else. Okay. Okay. >> depends how everything fo- and fo- >> But you But you But you plan on
002playing your senior year in high school, though, right? >> Yes. Okay. So, you plan on playing And you're a multi-sport athlete. Is that Is that right? What else do you do? Yes. I run track and yeah, that's it. I run track. Okay. What What What What's your events in track? Um all the sprinting events. I do the one, two, 4 by 1, 4 by 2, and I do No, I don't really touch the 4 by 4 or the 400 anymore. That was kind of freshman year stuff. I don't really And the the the 400 is a I've said on this show many times, listeners know this, the 400 is a monster of a race. I mean, if you If you've never been asked to sprint one time around the track, I just say this for
003any person, just go out there one day in your life and try to sprint one time around the track and see what your time is. And then you'll have a very different respect for people who are running 40s in the 400. You'll go, "Wow, somebody done ran a 40s a few you know, 40 some odd seconds in the 400." >> This is our third year for Say My Name event and what is powerful is that we have over [music] 300 girls come from 18 different schools, grades 4 through 12, to empower them and to show them that they are have a voice and that they could be their authentic selves in any space. It's very important that we have high school students here intermingling with middle school students and elementary students so that they have
004a goal and they can see where they can be and they [music] get excited about graduating. People to look up to like student athletes and stuff and they have a good future for themselves and that's something I want to have a good future. To me, this event is a good way for young girls and older girls like me to come together and see what we all can do as a whole group and team. What we want to do is break stereotypes for [music] young girls and make sure that, you know, being loud and being joyful isn't seen as a negative but a positive of expression through [music] art, through painting, through dance, through song, um through hair care classes so that they have great self-confidence, great self-esteem, and they have a great self-direction [music] in
005life. It is an opportunity for us to celebrate our young girls, to acknowledge them, to amplify their voices, to hear them. We want them to know that we appreciate them, we love them, we see them, and we are here to support [music] them. And once we all come together at this event, it's all of the girls in region two to see each other, [music] to have common conversation, to understand, you know what? I do have a voice. I am worthy. I am valued. The beauty of being at the Art Museum is to see the the art that takes place. I enjoyed the painting. Like, I really enjoyed the painting. Like, the self-portraits. I enjoyed that they gave us free stuff, you know, lip gloss and gifts and stuff when we came. And that the energy
006was good, and that that they welcomed us. >> It's good because you get to talk to new people and share like what you have in common. I mean, it was pretty fun outside. We learned karate. And it was a pretty awesome day. What an awesome opportunity for our elementary girls to see that middle school and high school girls are able to share and have conversations with them. >> I like that I could be a example to them cuz, you know, they're still growing up. Well, I'm still growing up, too, but, you know, they still they look up to us and like, we're role models for them. I think it's good to know for some young ladies to know that you're not alone, and that it's not always [music] about like the bad things, and that
007we can all come together and make something positive all together. Being we can help each other and not make it envious or a competition, [music] and that we're all here and we're on the same boat. I think today with battling so many negative connotations on social media and how people use social media, this gives them an opportunity to post positive things and to say, [music] I belong, I matter, I'm loved. I'm nurtured." And so, it's that counter narrative to some of the things that cause anxiety and depression. [music] You are unique. You are beautiful. You are brave. And we got you. We are here with you. We stand alongside you. And you can accomplish anything that your heart desires. >> [music] [music] >> Greetings and welcome to this week's highlights from across the district. On
008Friday, February 20th, Columbus City Schools students participated in the sixth annual Central Ohio Miniature Bridge Building Competition, connecting hands-on learning with real engineers and industry professionals. Organized by the Franklin County Engineers Office, Ohio Department of Transportation District 6, the Ohio State [music] University College of Engineering, and regional engineering partners, the event brought together more than 430 students and over 160 teams from across Central Ohio. 15 CCS [music] teams designed and built model bridges in just 3 hours before testing how much load they could hold. All three schools placed teams in the top 25 with Marion-Franklin earning the highest finish at 14th place. This competition highlights career-connected learning in action. Congratulations to all of our teams for their hard work and for representing Columbus City Schools with excellence. On Saturday, February 21st, the City League boys
009basketball championship brought high energy to East High School as the Columbus Africentric Early College Nubians faced off against the Centennial Stars. In a hard-fought matchup, Africentric secured the championship title with a 65-51 victory. From the opening tip to the final buzzer, both teams competed with intensity, pride, and determination. We celebrate the Nubians on their championship win and Centennial Stars for an impressive season and a strong showing in the title game. Well done to both programs on a memorable City League championship night. These young men represented their schools and our district with class, competing with pride, discipline, and respect from start to finish. On Thursday, February 26th, Columbus City Schools proudly celebrated [music] 70 schools that earned gold, silver, and bronze distinctions from the Ohio PBIS Network. Positive behavior interventions and [music] supports is a commitment
010to building strong school cultures through consistency, collaboration, and care. Our school teams engage in thoughtful planning and problem-solving to ensure students receive the behavioral and social-emotional supports they need to succeed. Congratulations to our dedicated educators, staff, and school leaders who make [music] possible every single day. We are proud of the culture you are shaping in our buildings and the impact you are making on our students across the district. [music] Linda McKinley STEM Academy's unstoppable mighty marching Panthers recently brought Columbus pride to New Orleans for Mardi Gras, performing on a national stage during one [music] of the country's most celebrated cultural events. This unforgettable experience was a result of months of preparation, dedication, and strong community support. Students marched through historic streets, embraced the city's rich musical traditions, and proudly represented Columbus City Schools with discipline,
011confidence, and panther spirit. We are happy to congratulate the unstoppable mighty marching Panthers and band director Steven Ingram for the leadership and vision that made this journey possible. You've made [music] us CCS proud. As we continue moving through the school year, Columbus City Schools is preparing for the spring 2026 administration of the Panorama survey, which will be open Monday, March 2nd through Friday, March 13th. Panorama is administered twice each year >> [music] >> in the fall and spring and provides valuable insight into key areas, including professional development, belonging, well-being, and workplace culture. Your feedback plays an important role in our growth as a district. The insights gathered help us refine our work, strengthen collaboration, and ensure our schools are places where people feel supported and connected. These have been your highlights from around the district
012for March 3rd. Thank you so much for joining us. Good evening. The regular business meeting of the Columbus City School Board of Education for Tuesday, March 3rd, 2026 is now called to order. Please call the roll. Dr. Pierce. Present. Dr. Kennedy. Present. Mr. Simmons. Mr. Katzemeyer. Present. Ms. Adair. Present. Vice President Engles. Present. President Dr. Miranda. Present. You have quorum. Please join me in saying the Pledge of Allegiance. Okay, we're ready to adopt the agenda. Uh we will be having a public comment, some um a few reports, board matters, public hearings or notices of public hearings. We will have a consent agenda, and there will be an executive session. Is there a motion to adopt the agenda? >> agenda. Is there a second? >> Second. Thank you. Please call the roll. Dr. Kennedy. Yes. Vice
013President Engles. Yes. Dr. Pierce. Yes. Mr. Katzemeyer. Yes. Ms. Adair. Yes. President Dr. Miranda? Yes. Motion carried. Now I want to take a point of personal privilege and talk about Eastmoor Academy theater. I just want to um I had the opportunity to attend the Eastmoor Academy production of In the Heights Sunday night and it was directed by Mr. Seth Harms and it was absolutely phenomenal. The talent, preparation, and professionalism of our students were truly inspiring. The production featured powerful Spanish language performances delivered with impressive fluency and the live orchestra added tremendous depth and energy to the show. In the Heights features music and lyrics by Luis Lin-Manuel Miranda and a book by Quiara Alegría Hudes. Alegría Hudes. Seeing our students bring such an iconic Broadway production to life was a powerful reminder of the strength
014of arts education in our district. Mr. Harms, I'm going to call him the goat, has dedicated more than 25 years to Eastmoor Academy directing multiple productions each year and consistently cultivating student talent. His leadership and commitment to excellence continue to make a lasting impact. Congratulations to Mr. Harms and all the students involved on an outstanding production. Okay. >> [applause] >> I will say if you ever get a chance to see one of his plays before he retires, I encourage you to do that. All right, we'll have our first public comment. Debbie Ducheneau. Yes, there you are. Hi Debbie. Hello. Uh good evening uh President Board President Dr. Miranda, Vice President Ingles, Treasurer Cook, Deputy Superintendent Katherine Mosher, and members of the board. My name is Debbie DeShane O and I'm here serving Columbus City Schools
015Classified Supervisors Association, also known as CSCSA. And with me I'm going to like pause off script and say how proud I am of the members that are here with me tonight, both in person and virtually. And the ones who couldn't be here but emailed me in support of our message to you today, so very proud of our collective spirit here today. Um my purpose tonight is simple. I wanted to introduce myself. We have done that. Um I want to kind of highlight the roles of CSCSA and then also reinforce how we can continue to support the district through good collaboration and communication. CSCSA, if you're not aware, represents a diverse group of highly skilled professionals who work whose work support the safety, the operations, data integrity, instructional environment, and the daily functioning of Columbus City
016Schools. From maintenance, HVAC, and electrical supervisors who assist in keeping buildings functional, to network administrators, data analyst, IT support staff who keep technology secure, to transportation and cost center supervisors who keep routes running smoothly, to food service and production center supervisors who keep meals and materials moving throughout the district, to our HR personnels personnel, benefits specialist, and executive secretaries who maintain clear communication, manage essential systems, uphold compliance, and provide the stability that keeps the district moving forward. Our members support students and staff every day. And we're proud to say that CCA CCSA is a vital partner in maintaining the safe schools, strong systems, and stable environments for our staff and students. Because of this, strong communication and partnership with district district leadership is essential to our work. And I do want to take a moment
017to acknowledge labor relations, labor management, and employee relations for their work with us in the executive committee to get on regular communications and conferencing about issues that are going on with the association and out in the field. So, we do appreciate that. At the same time, over the last 5 years, our compensation package has seen reductions in benefit. And to ensure that we have stability across all of our work areas, we ask to be included early in decisions that affect our members so we can anticipate impacts, communicate clearly, and help shape solutions before decisions are finalized. In other words, we'd like to be at the table to be collaborative with leadership than be an afterthought to some of the decisions that are affecting our members. This need for transparent, proactive engagement aligns with the district's
018investment in restorative practices. Classified supervisors play a key role in shaping the school's climate, and we are ready to support the initiative. However, in order to succeed, we need to have the expectations that we ask of staff to be modeled and supported consistently across all levels of the organization. My hope tonight is simple, to affirm that CCSA is just not an audience to the district's decisions. We are a resource. We are here with expertise in our field. We bring frontline insight and a shared commitment to improve the day-to-day operations. And our ask of the board is that you just support us in the continued collaboration and communications with leadership and with the restorative practices being a level playing field for all across the district. Thank you. Thank you. >> [applause] >> Before we move into
019board matters, I would like to take a moment to acknowledge our school social workers as we commemorate National School Social Work Week, which is observed during the first full week of March. The 2026 theme, Unite to Ignite, Celebrating Our Impact, highlights the powerful role school social workers play in connecting students, families, and schools to spark meaningful change. In Columbus City Schools, licensed school social workers serve students across our district. They work to address non-academic barriers that impact student success and provide support and intervention to meet the diverse needs of our students. Their work directly supports our mission that each student is highly educated, prepared for leadership and service, and empowered for success as a citizen in a global community. On behalf of the Board of Education, we thank our CCS school social workers for their
020professionalism, compassion, and the lasting impact they make in the lives of our students and families. Please join me in recognizing and celebrating them this week. >> [applause] >> As we move on to board matters, I would like to invite Betty Park Elementary School and Northland High School um to the front of the room. >> Thank you. Welcome. This evening, we would like to recognize Dr. Pierce who will help us honor Beatty Park Elementary School and Northland High School as Special Olympics National Banner Unified Champion Schools. This evening, we will be joined by representatives from both schools which include the principal of Beatty Park Elementary, Ms. Jessica Waddell, and the principal of Northland High School, Dr. Jason Johnson. Dr. Pierce. Thank you, President Miranda, and welcome. Good evening. This evening, I will read highlights from both
021resolutions recognizing Beatty Park Elementary School and Northland High School as Special Olympics National Banner Unified Champion Schools. Whereas, Columbus City Schools remain steadfast in its mission to educate, empower, and inspire every student ensuring equitable access, meaningful inclusion, and high-quality opportunities that prepare all leaders for success in school and in life. And whereas, the Special Olympics National Banner Unified Champion School designation is one of the highest honors awarded to schools across the nation that demonstrate exploratory commitment exemplary commitment to inclusive excellence and meet rigorous national standards established by Special Olympics. And whereas, this designation recognizes schools that implement the three core components of the Unified Champion Schools model. Unified sports, inclusive youth leadership, and whole school engagement. While embedding inclusive practices into the culture of the school community. And whereas Beatty Park Elementary School earned this
022designation in February of 2026 after meeting 10 nationally recognized standards reflecting sustained excellence in unified sports, young athlete programming, and student-led inclusion initiatives. And whereas Northland High School received this designation in December of 2024 demonstrating exceptional leadership through inclusive unified sports program, student-driven engagement efforts, and a strong culture of belonging and respect. And whereas both schools have embedded Unified Champion Schools practices into their strategic planning and school improvement efforts, ensuring inclusion remains a lasting and defining feature of their school community. Now, therefore, be it resolved that the Columbus Board of Education that this board does hereby congratulate Beatty Park Elementary School and Northland High School for earning the distinguished designation of Special Olympics National Banner Unified Champion Schools and commends the students, staff, families, and community partners whose leadership and dedication made this achievement possible.
023Colleagues, that is a motion. Second. You? Discussion? All right. Please call the roll. Ms. Adair? Yes. Dr. Kennedy? Yes. Vice President Engels? Yes. Dr. Pierce? Yes. Mr. Katzemeyer? Yes. President Dr. Miranda? Yes. Motion carried. Would you like them to say something before I go? Do they want to say something before I go? You said no. >> [laughter] >> Are you to have a picture? No one wants to say anything? Thank you. There we go. Yes, come on Beatty Park. Of course I do. Thank you. I knew you did. >> I want to thank everyone for allowing me the opportunity to lead such an amazing and dynamic staff at Beatty Park Elementary as we work every day to live up to the our mission, which is all children deserve a positive elementary experience and in CCS
024we know all means all. So, thank you. >> [applause] [applause] >> Picture time. Picture time. >> [applause] >> Very deserving. Some fun things to do. Yes, yes. All right. We will now move on. We will now consider the resolution authorizing revisions to the Columbus Schools Classified Supervisors Association compensation package. Is there a motion to approve the resolution? So moved. Thank you. Second. >> Second. Okay, thank you. Is there a discussion? Okay, please call the roll. Mr. Katzameer. Yes. Dr. Pierce. Yes. Vice President Engles. Yes. Dr. Kennedy. Yes. Ms. Adair. Yes. President Dr. Miranda. Yes. Motion carried. All right. We're going to talk a little bit about committee appointments this evening. The follow following committee appointments are being announced. The following individual is newly Um, please note these are newly appointed to the Policy and Governance
025Committee, Janice Keys. The following individuals are newly appointed to the Academic and Facility Alignment Committee, DeShawn Cox, Noel Britt, Keshana LeCount Burrell, and Liz Caslin Turner. The board extends its appreciation to each individual for their willingness to serve and for their commitment to supporting the work of the district. Welcome aboard. All right, Deputy Superintendent Katherine Mosher is a delegate for Dr. Chapman for tonight's meeting. Do you have a report for us? I do not have a report this evening. Thank you. Internal Auditor Kevin O'Connor, do you have a report for us? I do not. And finally, Treasurer Mr. Cook, do you have a report for us? No report, but just a brief update. We were able to complete our boundary funding last month, which resulted in over $10 million in savings for the taxpayers of
026our district. Very positive news. Yes. >> [applause] >> Thank you for your support and approval on that. We will hopefully have an additional tranche this summer that will be eligible. So, should that be the case, we're looking forward to maximizing savings in the future as well. Thank you. Thank you for your work on this. All right, it's now time to vote on the consent agenda. Approval of the consent agenda items 9.1 23.3. Our consent agenda um consist of those items. Are there any items a member would like to have removed and voted on individually from the consent agenda? Just a quick question. Are we going to 24.2? For this first piece, we cut those two out? Yes. Okay. Say it again. It's just through 23.3. >> Yes, through 23.3. Okay. Yes. 9.1 to 23.3. Motion
027to approve the consent agenda. Is there a second? >> Second. Any discussion? Please call the roll. Ms. Adair. Yes. Dr. Kennedy. Yes. Vice President Engles. Yes. Dr. Pierce. Yes. Mr. Katzemeyer. Yes. President Dr. Miranda. Yes. Motion carried. I will now recognize board member Adair. Thank you. I will handle items in 24. The next one is 24.1 which is item two board amendment authority to enter into a service agreement with State House Impact Group. Is there a Motion to approve. Is there a second? Second. Any discussion? Call the roll. Dr. Pierce. Oh, did you have a Just a quick question. I'm sorry. Just curious. I I I know this is a an amendment to an existing contract. Just curious how long State House State House Impact Group has been our lobbyist. Here's. Okay. Um I think
028it would be great at some point to to maybe hear about their strategy um for the board members. Uh so, I I just like to uh to put that out there. Thank you. Call the roll. Dr. Pierce. Yes, and I agree with board member Katzemeyer. Mr. Katzemeyer. Yes. Vice President Engles. Abstain. Dr. Kennedy. Yes. Ms. Adair. Yes. President Dr. Miranda. Yes. Motion carried. Next item is 24.2, which is authority to enter into a purchase agreement with The Ohio State University. Is there a motion? So moved. Second. >> Second. Any discussion? Please call the roll. Mr. Katzemeyer. Yes. Dr. Pierce. Yes. Vice President Engles. Yes. Dr. Kennedy. Yes. Ms. Adair. Yes. President Dr. Miranda. Abstain. Thank you. I'll turn it back to you, President. Thank you. Now, we're going to consider our second consent agenda. This
029consent agenda consists of items 26.1 to 26.2. Are there any items a member would like to have removed and voted on individually from the consent agenda? If not, Motion >> Motion to approve the consent agenda two. Second. Second. Thank you. Discussion? Please call the roll. Dr. Pierce. Yes. Mr. Katzemeyer. Yes. Vice President Engles. Yes. Dr. Kennedy. Yes. Ms. Adair. Yes. President Dr. Miranda. Yes. Motion carried. I will now recognize Vice President member Vice President Sarah Ingles for a motion. It is recommended that the Board of Education move immediately into executive session pursuant to Ohio Revised Code Section 121.22G1 to consider the appointment, employment, [clears throat] dismissal, discipline, promotion, demotion, or compensation of a public employee or official or the investigation or charges of complaints or complaints against a public employee, official, licensee, or regulated individual
030unless the public employee, official, licensee, or regulated individual requests a public hearing. That is a motion. Second. Please call the roll. Mr. Adair. Yes. Dr. Kennedy. Yes. Vice President Ingles. Yes. Dr. Pierce. Yes. Mr. Katzemeyer. Yes. President Dr. Miranda. Yes. Motion carried. Please note that the Board will adjourn following our executive session this evening and will not be reconvening in this room.