BOE 2026-02-03

001Heat. Heat. Heat. Hi, I'm Anley Stevenson, capital improvements project manager, and we're back at Mifflin High School. Teachers have returned today, and we're here amidst the hustle and bustle of teachers unpacking and setting up their rooms. We wanted to take you on a guided tour one last time to see the finished product. So, come along. We're here in the new student support services area of Mifflin High School. Before these spaces were scattered throughout the building, and now students and counselors have a private space to access all of those student support services. We're sitting here in one of our three new extended learning areas at Mifflin High School. They're all furnished slightly differently to allow a different posture for students and staffs. Some of them are more focused around technology. Some of them are more focused

002around lounge and conversation to allow students and teachers to pick the space that suits their needs for the day. We're standing in one of our completely refreshed classrooms here at Mifflin High School. Throughout you'll see new flooring, new ceilings, new lighting, our new sound system that allows for an even sound distribution throughout the whole classroom and furniture that was customized for each teacher to suit their needs. Looking at the refreshed auditorium space, you'll see new seating, new theater curtains, new lighting and sound system to support our next big production here at Mifflin High School. Here in the relocated weight room at Mifflin High School, we have combined the weight room and the health classroom. So, you'll see state-of-the-art new weight equipment combined with flexible furnishings to allow us to use this space for after school

003events as well as after school weight and strength training. Moving into the art and construction technology spaces, which were both refreshed here. You can see in the art room, we've got completely new seating for 72 students, which supports both of our art classes. We've added a lot of built-in cabinets to support all those art materials needed to do all of the different studio functions for our high school art students. Looking at our construction technology space, you'll see a brand new dust collection around the perimeter. This will allow us to keep a safe, clean environment to teach our students these critical skills to become part of our modern construction technology world. At this project, we left no stone unturned. As you walk through the building, you will see upgrades throughout. Our hallways have been completely painted,

004upgrading with new ceilings and new lighting. Our cafeteria space has been refreshed, all new furniture, all new flooring, and all new lighting. Our brand new gymnasium space has been equipped with everything we need for the next big game. We have new bleachers, new basketball hoops, and a completely refinished gymnasium floor. When you walked through Mifflin High School last school year, it was a dark, outdated, uninspiring space for our young learners. When you walk through this year, you'll see a bright, refreshed space that allows our students to dream big and achieve more this school year and many school years to come. The record last year was three and 10 cuz we only have five players and the record this year is seven and nine. >> We was going to make a team at McKinley if we

005had a coach or if we didn't. and we're having people come to our games to come watch us play, >> share the ball a little bit more now and I actually see the team as like a sisterhood. To go into an actual uh program that does have those type of losses, you feel like there's no expectation and I seen from previous games that I had looked at that they actually were talented. >> Ariana, she loves to get buckets, shy, she's strong with the ball, she'll body anybody. Faith, she brings the energy if we feeling down. >> Denny is doing real good. I love Denny. I got to play with my sister this year. She's a freshman. >> Marian Franklin, Cristiana Towns. She had 35 points, 25 rebounds, and 10 steals. She averages 18.5 points per

006game, nine rebounds, six steals per game. Her Mifflin game that we had, Tamaya Harrington, she had 27 points, five rebounds, 13 steals. It makes me feel more confident. start varsity as a freshman and play the whole game and make a lot of points with my teammates and a lot of assist. >> Changing the culture means a lot to me. It makes me feel real good that people aren't just seeing Lynon girls as trash. We here Monday through Saturday. So, we really putting in the work and I'm happy people are actually coming out and seeing us. We aren't just a team that's 3 and 10. We're actual high school basketball team. Once I actually did see Darthur and the program that he was actually running and how he was uplifting and actually caring, once they actually

007started to win games and to see their progress and to understand how much I did really care about them outside of just the game itself, it made them want to show up. It made them care. It made them want to actually work together and have a sisterhood to where they loved each other. >> My brothers are Philip, LB, Chris, and Emanuel. When I watch my brothers play, I look up to them and I play against them a lot. So, it makes me a little tougher to play against girls. The town's name is very strong in the community and she's living up to her name. >> My goal for Lenny McKinley is to win more games and set an example for little kids. >> Being a senior is pretty bittersweet that the program is just getting

008together and I'm about to leave, but I'm happy it got together. Coach means a lot to me. UC is actually my know visor. So I be in her office a lot. >> Miss Grenaw, she makes sure I make it to individual workouts, things I need help with to be better. >> She set up some team bonding for us. We do a lot of stuff on and off the court. I do enjoy playing against East since they are our rivals. >> I have fun playing against Kennedy from Centennial, Kayla from Centennial National. >> For college, I would like to study synography. college coaches to recruit me because I feel like I'm a good leader. I'm a good listener and I have good discipline and I can push myself. She's always going to put 110% into whatever

009it is that she does. So, a lot of the times whenever coaches are looking for that one player, that spark, Somaya Harrington would be that person. I cannot wait to see the young woman that she is going to become. >> I just want to do photography and still do basketball. College coaches should recruit me because I put all the work in. I'm very humble. I could make buckets and I like to share the ball and communicate. College coaches should recruit Cristiana Towns because of her work ethic, the ability that she has, which is natural, and on top of that, she's very coachable. It's something different whenever you have someone to step on the court that has an athletic ability, that has a game that is different than a lot of players that do play the

010game and you can still teach them something. My name is William Stenchome and I've been with Columbus City Schools for 23 years. >> My name is Mr. Dorsey Bersaw and I'm a safety and security specialist. >> My name is Anita Roman and I am a Columbus City Schools bus driver. >> My name is Sammy Gonzalez. I'm a food service manager currently at Briggs High School. I know that if I'm not there every day and on time, you know, that that student may not have a ride to school. And that weighs on me heavily. And I take pride in knowing that my students can set their clock on me. I'm always if, you know, it takes a lot for me not to come to work. It's important to come to work every day and be on

011time because we may be the only way that student gets to school. you know, seeing the kids years later and having them come up to me and say how thankful and grateful they were and happy that, you know, I kept them safe in the district and, you know, that I can't retire or leave the district until, you know, their kids graduate. >> This was one of the best decisions I've made in my life. Um, I didn't expect to live uh for this, but uh I love being part of the Columbus City School as a family. I just think because the building represents our districts for me to see how clean the building is. I could take pride in my effort and to put the cleaning and organizing of the building, it just makes me feel

012a level of pride. >> Peaceful mind can accomplish a lot of things. And when a student is hungry, their mind is often times on what the next meal is going to be. In an indirect way, we affect the students in the kitchen. They can accomplish what they have to in the classroom. And for them to accomplish that often times that's going to better their situation for themselves, their family and their community. So in in a sense helping the student in an indirect manner with the food is something that I really enjoy. >> Columbus, Ohio has so much to offer our youth. The growth you can obtain from being a part of this district is huge. There is such diversity and learning experience happening throughout our K12 buildings. I love to see the excitement in the

013kids' faces when they know they can start school the very next day. So it's exciting exciting for the families. Um so I think it's very impactful because it gives them that first start to you know learning and growing. >> You know I've been working with kids all my life. Coming here meeting the students the relationships that I've built over the years is just phenomenal. I mean, I'm seeing students still see students to this day that thank me just, you know, thanks for everything you've done. Thanks for helping provide a safe learning environment, you know, thank you for the talks, you know, and they're really appreciative. >> The district provides training throughout the school year and a lot of information that's constantly updated and it's always available to us. So, that's very helpful in um being

014able to, you know, provide the best service to, you know, our students and parents. The diversity in Columbus and inclusion, it's unlike any other place really. There's so many different cultures and you come in contact with just on a daily basis, you know, with our students and parents and teachers. >> I've really enjoyed the last few years working here at CCS. It's got great benefits. The people have been great and I wouldn't change it for anything. I've had other job offers, but I've turned them down because I just really like the people and I like working here. run to your computer and apply online. This is one of the greatest kept secrets in the school district. Really, this is a great job. Just apply online. It's easy. We have um our training is excellent. And

015um you know, we'll we'll do everything we can to help you get through and you won't regret it. I promise. Hi, I'm Carrie Charles and the big story this day, Columbus City Schools is welcoming leaders of all ages back into the classroom for the 2025 2026 school year. Are you ready? >> Yeah. >> 3 2 1 Welcome back to the first day of school in Columbus City School. >> Leaders are grown here. Oh yeah. >> Oh yeah. >> Well, it's like it's all that random stuff that you like watch as a kid and then you go you're actually doing it. Like we did uh Dick Clark Rocking New Year's Eve Times Square where we did the Macy's Day Parade >> and that was both in the same year, right? >> Ninja Turtles. Yeah. And so

016it's like just bizarre stuff like that. I mean playing >> Yeah. I playing MTV World Stage in Malaysia was one our first like big international show that that was like we had a police escort to the show and like there were thousands of people >> and we're so self-deprecating. We're like we don't need cops to like escort us. >> No one cares. >> Yeah. It's just stuff like that. And and then >> just it's such a gift too to like look at look out at shows and see faces from 15 years ago still coming. So that that's like that's also a pinch me like people care that much about our crappy little band. No, we're not crappy. We're good. >> Our incredible band. >> Our incredible man. >> Well, we are so uh grateful that

017you're here today and took the time to do this for for us and all of our listeners and we love what you do >> and congratulations on this latest album and all the success. >> Thank you so much for having us. >> You're welcome. And we'll do our final giveaway after this final song that they take us out with and it is Neon Trees. What's this last one >> we'll do? Everybody talks. >> All right. >> Hey baby, won't you look my way? I can be your new addiction. Hey baby, what you got to say? All you're giving me is fiction. I'm a sorry and this happens all the time. I found out that everybody talks, everybody talks, everybody. It started with a whisper and that was when I kissed and my lips. I could

018hear the chit to your love shine. Mama's always got a back to wreck when everybody talks back. Hey honey, you could be my drug. You could be my new prescription. Too much stock making me itchy. My everybody talks everybody. Everybody talks too much. It started with a whisper and that was when I kissed and then she made my lips hurt. I could hear the chit to your love. Mama's always got a back when everybody talks back. I never thought I'd see the day when everybody's words got in the way. Sugar, show me all your love. All you're giving me is affection. Hey sugar, what you got to say? It started with a whisper and in my lips. I could hear the chit. I measure when everybody touch them. Everybody talks. Everybody talks. >> It started

019with one whisper. And that was when I >> What are we going to do? Well, we There's a few, but now I'm holding a different guitar, so we'll probably do one of two. Let's do another way. um which is the uh so we're playing songs off of this new album Beacons that came out a little while ago and we're in the middle of this big Beacons tour. The first disc is all what we're calling Americana which is this electric and you know that word is can mean almost everything. >> Big umbrella there. >> Yeah, pretty big umbrella. But we're playing like you know some bluesier stuff and again we're coming from bluegrass disc two um is all the bluegrass stuff with Jerry Douglas and Sam Bush and that stuff. But we're going to close. This

020is the song that ends um the Americana side. And just say two words about it real quick. >> Um well, for the last couple years um Eric and I just kept talking to each other and I think talking to everybody I know and just this this term or this we just kept saying these same words to each other, which is there's got to be another way for us all to to live here on Earth and and get along better. There's just got to be another way than than what's happening right now. um because it's just it's just so awful for all of us. So many of us are in pain and hurting and divided. So this idea of there's got to be another way. Another way. So we wrote a song called Another Way and

021uh we hope it uh you know touches you. >> All right. Thank you all. Thank you all very much so much guys. >> Sounds great. >> I'm going to count us all in. Here we go. One, two, one, two. I couldn't tell you which one. I've been turned around here since the wheels first been spun. It's never made much difference cuz you end up where you need any old place to hang my hat is home to me. I've sold myself stories wishes down the world that this is how it ought to be hunting my own foot chasing my hotel lost in the same old but here's another way We've all got to find a way. Well, I come across the ocean. I couldn't call it by name. High low by the carrying crow. In the

022end, it's all the same. You can stroll the beaten path and fly the raven's wing. But as long as you're a rambling, you'll have some song to sing. We marched in the cities, buried our heads in the sand. We have chosen sides and snaked our lavs. But isn't it a pity? This eternal fight. Isn't it time we change your hearts here to stay here someday? There's always another way. Yeah, we got to find another way. Hey, Greetings. Welcome to this week's highlights from across the district. On Tuesday, January 13th, students, educators, and community partners joined district leadership at Fort Hayes Career Center to celebrate the return of the pharmacy tech program with a ribbon cutting in the newly renovated lab space. Students will begin the program as pharmacy technician trainees, completing hands-on rigorous coursework that

023prepares them to earn the Ohio State Board of Pharmacy Certified Pharmacy Tech credential. The program will serve 25 students each year, connecting them to nationally recognized credentials and real career opportunities in healthcare. Many thanks to Fort Hayes principal Erica Dodson and to our entire CTE team for their leadership and vision and making this program possible. CCS is committed to expanding college and career pathways that connect learning to life beyond the classroom. CCS students shine bright at the 41st annual Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. birthday breakfast on Monday, January 19th. This year's theme, the journey ahead, advancing liberty and justice for all, guided a powerful event. Each year, CCS student speakers are invited to present tributes during the breakfast. Board President Dr. Antoanet Miranda proudly introduced three dynamic CCS student speakers. Ally Russell Jr., sixth grade

024student at Indianola Informal K8 School. Amaya Williams, eighth grade student at Westmore Middle School, Rebecca Ido Woo, senior at Columbus Alternative High School. In their inaugural appearance at the MLK Jr. Birthday Breakfast, Ali, Amaya, and Rebecca delivered memorable messages reflecting on the responsibility of every generation to uphold Dr. King's vision of justice, unity, peace, and love. To our CCS scholars, thank you for sharing your voices with our community and for reminding us that leadership is about stepping forward and continuing Dr. King's legacy through service and action. On Tuesday, January 20th, had the pleasure to kick off our professional development day by connecting with nearly 9,000 Columbus City School staff members through a state of the district webinar hosted from Huey AG Bell Elementary School. More than 200 staff members joined us in person and teams

025across our 100 plus schools and departments participated virtually. This was an important opportunity to share updates, reinforce our long-term vision, and ensure our staff remain informed and engaged as we navigate the work ahead. Following the webinar, I joined approximately 300 members of our transportation department at the newly renovated Wetstone High School auditorium, recognizing the critical role they play in ensuring our students arrive at school safely each day. Throughout both professional development sessions, my message was clear. Our staff matter and students remain at the center of every decision we make. Thank you, CCS, for your dedication and commitment to putting students first. Choosing the right school is an important step for every family. That's why I want to invite families to join us on Thursday, February 5th for our elementary school choice fair where parents and

026guardians can explore elementary school options across Columbus City Schools. Attendees will be able to connect directly with school leaders, ask questions, and learn more about the programs and supports available to students as part of the school choice and lottery process. Be sure to visit the CCS website for event details and additional information. Save the date. Columbus City Schools families are invited to the 10th annual summer opportunities and engagement fair on Saturday, February 21st from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at the Columbus Metropolitan Main Library. Families will have the opportunity to explore engaging summer experiences that support student learning, creativity, and growth in grades preK through 12. With more than 50 community partners on site, programs and resources will be available to support students of all abilities and learning needs. The day will include workshops, giveaways,

027and on-site registration for CCS summer experience programs. Register today by scanning the QR code and join us on February 21st to explore summer opportunities for your child. These have been your highlights from around the district for February 3rd. Thank you so much for joining us. Good evening. The regular business meeting of the Columbus City Schools Board of Education for February 3rd is now called to order. Please call the role. >> Mr. Adair, >> present. >> Vice President, >> present. >> Dr. Pierce, >> present. >> Dr. Kennedy, >> present. >> Mr. Simmons, >> present. >> Mr. Kame, >> present. >> President Miranda, >> present. >> You have a >> Please join me in saying the pledge of allegiance. To the flag of the United States of America and to the republic for which it stands. One

028nation under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all. Before we begin, I want to take a moment to acknowledge Black History Month. As we observe Black History Month 2026, we mark the 100th anniversary of Black History commemorations first established in 1926 to ensure that Black history would be studied, honored, and preserved. Columbus City Schools has served this community since 1847. Over time, African-American students access to public education reflected broader societal conditions with early black education in Columbus often taking place in separate schools, churches, and community spaces supported by families who understood education as a pathway to opportunity. In 1977, the federal court case Panic versus Columbus Board of Education led to a judicial finding that the district's policies had contributed to segregation and a comprehensive desegregation plan was implemented beginning in 1979. These changes

029expanded access for students and reshaped the educational landscape of the city. As schools were integrated, some black schools were closed and many black educators experienced significant transitions in their professional roles. This period remains an important chapter in our history and offers lessons that continue to inform our work today. Today, Columbus City Schools remains committed to its mission to educate, empower, and inspire every student. As we recognize this centennial moment, we honor the resilience of our community and reaffirm our commitment to equity, excellence, and opportunity for all. We will now go through the agenda. I'm going to give a high level overview. We will we'll be taking um public comment. We will deal on executive reports, board matters, public hearings or notices of public hearings, the consent agenda, and executive session afterwards. Is there a motion?

030>> Motion to approve the consent agenda. >> Thank you. Second. >> The agenda. >> I said the agenda. Yeah. >> Second. >> Okay. Are there any objections? Hearing no objection. Objections. The agenda is adopted. We will now go to public comment. The first person has three minutes is Jennifer Kraton, a CCS parent, Vice President Les, Dr. Chapman, board members, parents, staff, and community members. I've come before the board previous times, but with a new board in place, I wanted to address you again. This time, it has to do with some criticisms I have for Dr. Chapman, but also some possible solutions because I'm not one to just criticize without offering some things to think about. The first one being transportation. Transportation was something that when was discussed and voted upon, nobody really understood that the

031community would push back so hard in wanting to keep transportation an option all the way through our senior year students. Things like hearing when I did a recent interview in that same interview Dr. Chapman saying, "Find me a district as wide and as expansive as ours, as large as ours that offers the same transportation K through 12." I did. I went to go look. I'm I'm one to to go research and she is correct. We are the only district that does that in the 50 United States of America and its territories. We're also the only state that requires transportation for our CNP students. This needs to change and it takes a united effort between board, between district staff, between parents, between community members. But sitting there and basically telling us to figure it out for

032our K through8 lottery students that aren't 100% lottery isn't the answer. Most of our parents and families in this district have transportation barriers. We can't just get them to our choice lottery schools. As many of you know, my son attends a 100% lottery school. He goes from the west side in the hilltop all the way to the east side to boys prep. He is grateful for that opportunity, gladly getting up at 4:00 in the morning to get on a bus at 5:30 because of the programs that offer him. He stays after school for the Driven Foundation, another important aspect in his education and does not get home until 6:30. He does this willingly. I don't make him. He wants to. He's not the only one. and by ending transportation. While I know that this fight

033goes to the city and to the state and to the federal level, by taking this opportunity, we give every opportunity for charter non-public schools to take our students again because guess what? They still get transportation and they offer programs that we lack. St. Charles is a huge school that many of our boys prep students take. I have a letter that I have given you guys. I hope you continue to read it. Thank you, Jennifer. Next, we'll have a CCS student, Colton Kraton. Good evening, Dr. uh President Dr. Miranda, Vice President Engles, Dr. Chapman, Mr. Simmons, and uh CCS board members. I'm a student at Boyce Prep, and I just want to address what I think about the budget shortfall and how we're spending our money. We made a $100 million levy that was passed in

0342023 on building maintenance funding, and we spent it on remodeling buildings that we shut down later on. We did not use the money that was meant for building maintenance correctly. I think we should be spending our money correctly and not remodeling buildings that we're going to end up closing or sell 100 million. Yeah, $100 million is a lot of money using that and using that to remodel buildings is not needing maintenance and buildings not needing maintenance is not using the money correctly. Boys prep is in pretty bad shape, lockers not working, lockers without doors and breaking water fountains. Using that money for maintenance would be beneficial not just for boys prep and a lot of other students with legacy buildings that are not doing in great shape. I hope that we are spending the money

035right with this new board. Thank you. >> Thank you. Our next public comment is Sheila Hill, a CCS parent. Good evening board members and superintendent Chapman. Thank you for your time and service to our district and for allowing me to opportunity to speak today. My name is Sheila Hill. I'm a resident of CCS school district and my son currently attends a CCS school. Like everyone here, I want what is best for our children's education and safety. That is why I'm here this evening to address the issue of special education staffing ratios not being followed according to the Ohio Administrative Code. Under rule 3301511 section 7 I2E, an intervention specialist will serve no more than eight children with multiple disabilities. Additionally, under rule 33015111 section 7I2F, an intervention specialist will serve no more than six children

036with autism, deaf blindness, and/or traumatic brain injury. My understanding is that these ratios are not being followed in my son's current placement and that this is occurring in other special education classrooms across the district. When these ratios are exceeded, students are placed in environments that do not align with their IEPs. This violates their access to free appropriate public education and the right to be educated in their least restrictive environment and this is a direct violation of ideas within um idea individuals with disability education act. These illegal ratios also create serious safety concerns. Many students in the classroom require small group settings to remain regulated. When classrooms are over ratio, dysregulation and aggressive behaviors increase, creating unsafe conditions for students and staff. Many of these students also have a high risk of alopement. Expecting two sta

037two staff members to safely monitor 11 or more students in a classroom is high. Sorry, I lost my place. is unrealistic and dangerous. These are situations where children can and have left the buildings creating significant liability to the district. Teacher shortages are often cited as the reason for these violations. And I ask you to consider why there is a s shortage particularly in special education. Teachers report feeling unsupported, unheard, and unsafe. Offering additional pay for exceeding ratios is not a solution. It is unethical and it does not address the root problem. Intervention specialists are carrying excessive case loads which compromises both student services and teacher well-being. I am also aware that this issue was covered by local media last school year. Yet, it remains unresolved. With upcoming funding cuts being discussed, families of students with

038disabilities are increasingly anxious. Student education resources are already difficult to access and these conditions continue to drive families and staff out of the district. When ratios respect the needs of children and the well-being of educators, quality education becomes possible. I urge the board to take meaningful action to ensure compliance with state law and to protect our most vulnerable students. Thank you for your time and listening to the concerns of district parents. >> Thank you, Sheila. Aaron Wasserman, CCS parent. Aaron. Okay, we'll come back in case he comes. Um, Jack Ryan Fosi, CCS parent. Hello, my name is Ryan Fosi. I have one kid who is in third grade and attends Columbus Gifted Academy in the Short North. Very proud of him. He's a happy kid receiving a good education. Columbus Public Schools provides a highquality

039education and opportunities for my kiddo that I appreciate. I've also been a part of the safe green schools effort since the beginning. I'm here today in support of 13.2 on the agenda. It's about solar, the safe green schools effort, which I see as an important effort to assist the school district in its internal operations and its public-f facing image as a contributor to one of the most important efforts of our time, protecting the environment, which is really about educating students and adults and humans, saving on energy costs, and actually becoming more sustainable in just one corner of our world. It is important that you act and you are. So, thank you. Thank you for passing the safe green schools policy at the end of last year. I'm very impressed with the board in the last

04012 months of my advocacy. A lot has happened. I remember a lot of events um all different types and things that have moved forward. So, we keep moving forward. It's great. It's a good idea to focus on the most permanent, reliable, and useful properties in the CCS portfolio. When it comes to installing solar, it doesn't particularly matter that much where it is as long as it's implemented among your buildings in a sense of harvest or harnessing or harvesting as much utilitarian benefit as possible. You should focus on facilities that are going to be in use for a very long time and where you can directly harness the electricity produced on site for your purposes instead of giving it back to the grid. That's just part of Ohio state law and the benefits that you get

041from that. They're they're not really there. If you can use it on site and it can stay a long time in that place, that's your best bet. Um, great job to the staff that have imagined the different places these projects can take place and I think you're on the right track with this first one. In my professional career, in the past, I've advised city governments on their sustainability plans and their internal versus externally focused operations. I would I would say that you're on the right track to focus internally first to get the best cost benefit from your first projects. But don't forget about the intangible benefits or things that may not be measured. things that are obvious are your utility bills, the direct financial savings that you'll receive, but um the inspiration that you can

042provide to the community and demonstration projects or STEM learning opportunities are incalculably valuable and don't directly match up to the money that you're going to save like other school districts have saved before you, cities and states. Thank you. Great job. >> Thank you. >> Lori Reer, CCS grandparent, is going to be speaking remotely. Okay. Frederick Garrett, CCS citizen. Good evening, >> Dr. Miranda, Vice President, Treasurer Cook, Superintendent, Dr. Chapman, and members of the board. back oh it must have been maybe I don't know 2018 years ago uh February 6 2018 I spoke on the mistreatment of black children in this school system today my concern is the same the mistreatment and miseducation of black children in this school system um my first time speaking at one of these board meetings was uh back 1999 I

043guess that's what 27 years ago I can't quite do the math. Uh anyway, uh what I've learned is that over the years, most of the people on this board, and the names and fa and faces have changed, but the attitudes don't seem to change. Seems like most of the people on this board did not want to hear what I had to say or or had no concern about what the public has to say. uh because it seems like many of them only use this board to move on to the next appointed or the next elected position. But the important thing to know is while you're on this board, it's important to be concerned about the education of all children. So since mostly my experience seem like you guys don't want to listen to me, listen

044to the uh what the media has to say, here's a uh newspaper article. Columbus hands out more than 26,000 suspensions a year. That's from the newspaper. That's not me. High absentee rates plague Ohio schools. Newspaper. Grades bad for local schools. Newspaper. And you can probably find some good things, but uh I I seem to find a lot of bad stuff because if you correct the things that are bad, correct the things that are going wrong, you end up with a better school system, a more uh a better performing school system. Uh one thing that has concerned me over year over the years since 1999 is you have a uh book warehouse up there where all these probably thousands of books are kept. the public's not allowed to look look at those books or even go

045inside there. Uh maybe some of you board members can can take a look and see what what are they trying to hide. I think the problem is you got two different curriculums, one for the white kids, one for the blacks. Uh check that out if you would and see if it's see what they have to hide at the book warehouse on Hudson. Thank you. >> Thank you. We're going to call Lori Reer who is on the line. Lori, we can't hear you. Can you adjust it in the back? >> Oh, now I hear them. Lori, um, we would encourage you to write to the board directly. I don't know. Um, we're going to move on. I don't know if we can come back. If we're able to get her, then we will come back and

046listen to her public participation if we're able to do that. So, um, in the back, let us know if we're able to do that and then we will put her on. Okay, we're going to go to board matters. Before we honor and recognize Cranbook Cranbrook Elementary, I want to take a few moments to acknowledge school counselors week, which is celebrated February 2nd through February 6th. This year's theme, school counselors amplify students success, highlights the critical role our counselors play in supporting students academically, socially, and emotionally. So on behalf of the Columbus Board of Education, we thank our school counselors for their dedication to our students and for advancing the mission of Columbus City Schools every day. Love our councils. All right. 4.1 is the Columbus Board of Education resolution honoring Cranbrook Elementary School, 2024 2026

047National PTA School of Excellence. and I will turn it over to Dr. Tina Pierce. >> Thank you so much, President Miranda. Before we jump into reading the resolution, I just want to take a moment to acknowledge and thank all of our board members. Last month, January, was school board member appreciation week. We did receive acknowledgements from other elected officials such as Allison Russo. And so, I just want to take a moment to just say this is a very thankless job sometimes. Kudos to all of my colleagues that are here tonight that have been there before that will be here in the future to do the great work of representing our students in our community. So, thank you to our Columbus Board of Education. And now we jump into the resolution honoring Cranrook Elementary School as

048our 202426 National PTA School of Excellence. And this is such a great honor because I had the privilege of going to Graanbrook as a student. So whereas Cranbrook Elementary has been named a 2024 2026 National PTA School of Excellence, one of only 330 schools nationwide to receive this distinction. And whereas the National PTA School of Excellence program recognizes schools and parent teacher associations that demonstrate a strong commitment to building meaningful family school partnerships that improve student learning climate school and overall educational experience. And whereas research consistently affirms that family engagement and family school partnerships are essential components of school improvement and student success. And whereas Cranrook Elementary and its PTA began this journey through a shared commitment to strengthen family engagement, actively seek community input to identify needs, establish goals, and implement a plan of

049action. And whereas throughout the 2024 2025 school year, Cranrook Elementary and its PTA participated in professional learning, peer collaboration, and continuous communication to support and sustain this work. And whereas Cranberrook Elementary is a title one school serving a diverse student population including 60% English language learners representing more than 70 countries and 15% students with identified special needs underscoring the importance of inclusive and equitable engagement practices. Whereas Cranbrook Elementary Excellence team focused on supporting student learning by engaging families, implementing both short-term and long-term strategies to strengthen trust, inclusion, and partnership. And whereas the school implemented a series of family engagement initiatives throughout the school year, including Bridgefest, Space Night, and Magic Night designed to support academic learning, social emotional well-being, and community connection. And whereas this result this work resulted in the formation of 17 community

050partnerships and received positive feedback from families, staff and community partners reflecting a shared investment in student success. And whereas Cranberrook Elementary School's designation as a national PTA school of excellence reflects the collective effort of students, families, educators, PTA leaders, and community partners committed to creating a welcoming and supportive learning environment. Now therefore, be it resolved that the Columbus Board of Education hereby congratulates Cranberrook Elementary School and its PTA on being named a 2024 2026 National PTA School of Excellence. And be it further resolved that the board recognizes this achievement as a model of effective family school partnership, inclusive engagement, and community collaboration that advances student success. And be it finally resolved that the board expresses its appreciation to the students, families, educators, PTA leaders, and community partners whose dedication and collaboration made this achievement possible.

051>> Thank you. I I briefly wanted to say thank you to Dr. Pierce and the board for making this recognition for us. I want to thank um the faculty and staff at Cranbrook. Um I'd like to thank Marissa Cirker, our president from last year who got this ball rolling and was the one who submitted all of our um paperwork and everything for this. Um and I want to thank all of the Cranbrook families as well uh for working together to support each other. Um and I want to say that I think Cranbrook is an excellent example of what a public school can aspire to be. Uh it's a place where the teachers care and they look out for their students and they help their students to feel safe and included so that they can learn

052and grow to be them best to be their best selves. Um I believe that having the school in our neighborhood makes it a better place to live. Uh the PTA's mission statement is to make every child's potential a reality by engaging and empowering families and communities to advocate for all children. And I believe that's what Cranrook does very well. It's a place where children are exposed to others that have very different experiences, but at the same time, some children are exposed to other children that have the same experiences they do. Um, I think it's the kind of place that teaches children empathy and patience and understanding and that these are traits that I think are very important to help children grow into being the best people that they can be. I know um this is

053a challenging time for our country and for our city and for our schools. But I believe that the community around Cranbrook is what gives me hope for our future. And I know that we can find a better way forward. And I think that places like Cranbrook can help us see the way to doing that. So thank you very much. >> And with such a thoughtful response and an acknowledgement of this great work, I offer a motion to approve this resolution. >> Second. >> Mr. Adair. >> Yes. >> Dr. Kennedy. >> Yes. Vice President Engles. >> Yes. >> Dr. Pierce, >> yes. >> Mr. Kame, >> yes. >> Mr. Simmons, >> yes. >> President Dr. Miranda, >> yes. Motion carried. >> Congratulations. I'm dead. Moving on. 4.2 resolution to adopt the professional development conference scheduled for

0542526 school year. Is there a motion to adopt? >> Motion. >> Second. >> Okay. Any discussion? If not, call the role. >> Dr. Pierce, >> yes. >> Mr. Kameer, >> yes. >> Mr. Simmons, >> yes. >> President Dr. Miranda, >> yes. >> Vice President, >> yes. >> Dr. Kennedy, >> yes. >> Mr. Dair, >> yes. >> Motion carried. >> Okay. Tonight, we take another step in the difficult but necessary work of addressing a portion of the 109 million projected budget deficit. This is not work any of us take lightly. These decisions are complex. They are consequential and they require honesty, discipline, clear process, and a shared commitment to doing what is right for our students in our district. We want to be clear from the start. This board understands that budgets are not just numbers

055on a page. They represent people, programs, and learning environments. That reality is guiding every conversation we have as we move forward. Administrative reductions of more than $7 million is just the first step. That choice is intentional. It reflects our responsibility to look inward and leave lead with accountability. At the same time, we are working closely with district leadership to ensure that these actions do not negatively affect the teaching and learning environment for our students. To be clear, CCS added staff to deal with the challenges of teaching during the COVID pandemic and the aftermath which is still felt in the classroom. The positions represent important work that took place. It is the role of the board to govern with fiscal stewardship to prioritize resources in a way that protects classroom instruction and student learning to the

056greatest extent possible. That means protecting classroom instruct instruction, supporting educators and maintaining safe, stable schools while making the structural changes required for long-term financial health. These conversations will be challenging. There will be moments of discomfort, but avoiding hard decisions today only shifts greater harm to tomorrow, and that is not acceptable. We are committed to transparency throughout this process, to listening to our community, and to putting students at the center of every decision we make. This is the beginning of the work. It will take collaboration, trust, and resolve. But we believe it is work we must do and work we can do together. And I will now turn it over to Dr. Chapman. >> Thank you, Dr. Miranda, um, for providing me with an opportunity to discuss the central office position reductions on tonight's agenda. Uh

057the central office personnel recommendations on tonight's agenda, as you've named, represent a difficult but necessary step for us in CCS to align our resources with district budget, our current realities, while maintaining our commitment to put students in classroom learning first. These reductions equate to a savings of 7,193,66. This amount is more than the 6.6 million goal directed by the board on December 2nd. I promise to lead with central office reductions to minimize the impact on classrooms and we've kept that promise. December's board policy um dictates or the board policy 1540 dictates how we must proceed with administrative position reductions and the suspension of admin contracts. These reductions are focused on positions and not people. Job performance was not a factor in these decisions. These are all valued employees who have led impactful work in our

058district. Specific individuals were not identified for for reduction, only positions as a part of the process. But tonight, you'll be voting on those positions and the impacted employees. We must remember our history. During the long COVID pandemic, the district leveraged new resources such as ESSER funding and added layers of support in many areas. We increased the number of supervisors, directors, and regional support staff to meet the needs of students and families during the pandemic. And as we return to the classroom, now with fewer resources and growing inflation, we are forced to reduce those supports. Some of the 62 central office positions being considered for reduction tonight are already vacant or will be vacant due to pending retirements or resignations. Some of the leaders in active positions hold licenses that will qualify them for consideration for

059other CCS school-based positions. Decisions affecting our staff are never taken lightly. We took great care to deliver these this difficult news to each of our impacted team members with compassion and respect. We'll continue to provide support for them throughout the six months of this transition. And as a point of reference, precoid we had 309 total administrative positions. This number includes school-based and central office positions. Today we have 411 total administrative positions. These proposed reductions will take us to 349 school and central office positions. Our priority is to ensure that Columbus City Schools remain strong and stable and that so that we can continue to meet the needs of our students and our families now and in the future. Our work does not stop as a result of these reductions. While these positions may be gone,

060the mission and work of all of our central office team will continue to go on. Thank you. So, resolution 4.3 reduction in force will be put forth as a package resolution. If there is no disagreement, we will forward it as a package resolution and asking for a motion. >> So moved. Thank you. A second. >> Second. Thank you. Any discussion? >> Yes, Dr. Pierce. >> Thank you so much. Um, President Miranda, while Dr. Chapman noticed that this is or cited that this is only a portion um and you indicated as well. I would like to remind um our team as well as our community that when these initial resolutions were passed, the date to which that the superintendent was to bring us potential cuts was January 31st. And that included the entire amount that the

061board took action on. And so I want to publicly put it out there that I am concerned that this the entirety of what we need to make reductions on um has not been presented by the date in which our resolution had indicated that it should be um presented. So just so it's on the record that it's out there. >> Thank you. All right. Yes, Doc. Uh Mr. Katzmire, >> thank you. Uh Dr. Chapman. Um, were these spread also spread across the treasurer and auditor's office? And can you kind of break that down a little bit? >> Yes. And I'll defer to my colleagues if they'd like to add additional context, but there were 62 admin positions um that we are recommending for um action tonight on the board agenda. And if I'm not mistaken, there

062were two positions from the office of internal audit and two positions from the treasurer's office. But I would certainly defer to my colleagues if they have additional context or that's not accurate. >> That is correct from my office. Yes. >> Yes. >> Thank you. >> All right, Mr. Simmons. >> Thank you, President Dr. Miranda. Um Dr. Chapman, I would like to um you know, you talked about one of our policies um and I think when we go um when we embark on doing these really big um shifts in how our organization functions, I think it's really important that we start with an understanding of, you know, just what our policy says we're allowed to do. Um because this is the second time I've been a board member and we've started a really big process and

063we get into, you know, you know, the administration says it's time to do X. We we do X as a board. we authorize it and then we get a couple months down the road and the feedback is well you know this policy is too restrictive it's not letting us do what we need to do. Those are conversations we really have to have on the front end. That way the board has the proper time to you know whether send a policy to policy and governance for example or to bring a policy to the table and have the necessary you know board superintendent dialogue um about our policy. And you know that is a requirement you know of our of all of our direct reports to you know continuously monitor our policies for ways to improve it.

064And so you know it's really important I I I hope we're able to revise that policy um you know before we embark on handling the rest of our remaining deficit. But I think it's really important that that's work we get done on the front end next time rather than on the back end because I think you know the the reason as as Dr. Pierce did correctly pull out as I look at the the resolution for the other staffing reductions. It does say um January 31st, but the reason that can't happen is because we have for you know it's been determined that we have to do the staggered approach and start with one group first and then move on to another group of employees and then another. Um you know I understand that's what we have

065to do but you know had we known that that's what we would have had to do a bit earlier in the process we could have got the resolutions right back in December. And so I just think, you know, again, when we start on just big shifts in how our organization operates, how many school buildings we're going to have, for example, um how many staff we're going to have, what positions, it's really important we just look at what our policy is, what are the legal authorities we have, what are the legal limitations. um because um you know as you identified to us as our superintendent and CEO um this policy for you was a bit restrictive and there were additional legal protections in our policy that went beyond um the minimum required um by the standard.

066>> Thank you Mr. Simmons. Thank you. Um, board member Simmons, I just also would like to name that while you named two policies, the council, but we've been working with the council of great city schools, they have also named that many of our policies bleed over into operations and are very restrictive. And so, this is two examples that we've actually experienced in practice um, in terms of how it um, impacts our operations. But they have also done a review um, Dr. Miranda is aware of that data, but they've also done a review of many of our policies and noted that there's work to be done across the board for many of our policies that go above and beyond what um typical governance would look like and bleed over into operations that cause more restrictions for

067the administration. And so I think this is feedback that we should certainly take back to our policy committee and we have feedback from the council of great city schools that can guide us in that work and we can begin looking at if that's something we want to make um changes to as a part of their work. They propose a policy diet for us and so there's additional feedback as well as support to help us manage those conversations and support for the board work. Well, you know, I would say the policy diet is certainly part of our governance model, SOFG. Um, and all all of our direct reports have been tasked with implementing the policy diet. Um, because it's part of FOFG, SOFG. Um, and so I would encourage you all to bring us policy recommendations.

068>> Thank you, Mr. Simmons. Dr. Pierce, >> well, I have a couple of comments. So, one, I think with the policy diet, it is also helpful for board members to go through and review those policies as well. and AJ Crarable in particular um and I want to say um our old treasur Stanoric helped to um categorize or or separate those so board members could actually go through and do that. So my request is if we could go back to that board meeting and look up um what those recommended policies were and then assign those to each board member so board members can start going through and doing that work. We've we've already done that. Um, so let's go revisit that again. So that's the one request. Uh, the second request is given that the resolution

069to direct the superintendent to develop the proposed staffing reduction plan is not ready. Um, because the date that that resolution said was January 31st. Um, well, she has until the 31st of this year. I I take it. Um, when are we giving the deadline for her to come with the rest of the reductions? I would like us to identify a deadline for that staffing reduction plan as a board. >> We can do that later. I think we're getting off of what we're supposed to be doing, which is to vote for these resolutions. We understand that this is really difficult and as um Dr. Chapman said we for reasons we had to stagger um administration first because people had continuing contracts. You had to figure it out and then we will be doing the other two.

070But I think we can put forth dates if we don't have those dates. Dr. Chapman, I don't know if you have those dates. >> Yes. So the deadline of January 31st, we were planned to have a board meeting on January 27th where I would have presented that. Um but I have the staffing plan um ready to provide the board to at tonight's meeting. So I don't you'll have it in your hands tonight. That is on the agenda for discussion tonight. >> So I echo my colleagues sentiments in that when we are doing this big work when we don't put dates and timelines around it and when we can expect updates the work won't get done and we have examples of that happening. Um, and so I think she something has been mentioned with that date,

071but I would just like us a date on when we can get an update on the staffing report and um, will we need to go back and do anything to those previous resolutions? President, >> thank you. Um, Miss Deir, >> thank you. Um, you mentioned in your presentation that you have gone over the number that was requested by the board. Can you talk a little bit about that and then what that means for the the 50 million target? Does that mean you're going to be proposing more cuts because we do have another round that we have to do? Um so just kind of like the thought process about how this will kind of shake out in terms of the rest of the numbers that the board had put forward in terms of the recommended cuts

072for each of the other resolutions. So, thank you. Um, board member Adair, in your question, I'm assuming that the board uh resolution directed us to reduce 6.6 million. That was aspirational to get to 6.6 million and we're at 7.1, right? And so the question will be for the board, um, we're over the 6.6. So that means if we make no changes to the other resolutions, we will be over 50 million in all of the reductions. Um or the board could make a decision to modify the second resolution that impacts um certificated and classified staff and that would actually save positions for our teachers and our classified staff. So that was is something f first we have to vote on this resolution which will actually give us an opportunity some agency to have a conversation because

073we were over the 6.6 how do we want to make up for that cost savings and could we save more classroomfacing positions which we've been discussing um throughout this entire process. So that will be up for discussion um for future action. Thank you, Dr. Pierce. >> Okay. So, if we're going back to do that, we did cut that original resolution from 34.6 million to 25.9 million. and we cut before we assessed or determined how the resolutions to then reduce transportation and also how the resolutions to reduce transportation could also help us save positions. So now is the request to take a look at the totality of all of those resolutions because again we voted on the reduction in transportation before we did the estimated costs. So we left, let me say this differently. When we

074did the resolutions to close schools, we did not take that money into account prior to changing the figure on the resolutions to reduce staff. We reduced staff and then we closed buildings. So now are is your request that we go back and look at all of the total reductions and we can change that number even further or still no I this recommend this is a consideration a question for the board. We're talking about staff reductions. We have exceeded the board's directive for the admin reductions to the tune with $7.1 million. We have a question before us. The difference between 6.6 and 7.1. Do we want to reduce the number of certificated and classified positions? We know that resolution was at 25.9. or do we want to? Again, we know that this is not the last

075conversation that we're having about budget reductions. So, if we're over 50 million by maybe $500,000, that gives us um that starts the next conversation that we'll be having in just probably a few later this year, a few months for the next reduction in $50 million. There's more work to be done, but there's also an opportunity for us to consider the impact that we want to have on staff reductions for the upcoming school year as we're having these conversations. So, just to clarify, when we took action on December 2nd, our board, and all of a sudden this is aspirational, but our figure that we came to was $50,453,610. We went over the 50 million. At that point, we could have assessed and determined how much more, how many more jobs could we save. So that 25.9

076million, we could have actually maybe changed that to a higher number because again, we closed the schools after we approved the cuts. So what I'm saying is right now you have cushion to save positions and that's but you're saying hold off until the next 50 million in cuts. What I'm saying she's not she said we could do it this year. So that's why I'm asking the question of can we and should we go back to that resolution where we said 25.9 million in cuts and look to see could that number be higher than what it is right now. Could we save more positions? >> Yeah. >> We want it to be lower. >> No. So what could it be? Could we save more positions? Yes. >> By lowering that number. >> Yes. That's what she

077is saying. >> Yes, >> that's what she's saying. >> So, we're going to go back to that resolution and change the figure. >> That would be the question for the board. >> That's the question that I'm asking. >> Yes. The board would have to make that decision whether we want to do that. >> So, again, my original question was as a board, are we going to go back to that resolution and change the figures on it? >> We can, but right now we're talking about this resolution. So, that becomes another conversation. And so we need to vote on the resolution that is on the floor. That's on the floor. Mr. Simmons. >> Um thank you, President Dr. um Miranda. I I do want to um you know just go go back to one of the

078reasons why I think that that figure was has changed partially is because um I understand it is prior to the start of this year the treasur's office was using more of an average to calculate that figure um because maybe we didn't have the exact per position you know I we didn't have the positions identified to begin with um but then also maybe if we did we didn't have the exact cost to employ that individual down um and that all goes back to our our planning and process for how we do these big, you know, or I'm sorry, Treasure Cook, am I wrong? >> No, you're correct. We used an average, but it was extremely fluid as we went through the process as we work towards this final resolution. >> Okay, good, good, good to hear.

079Um, but I was saying I think that goes back to, you know, the the planning and process um and and just putting things up against maybe a tighter than ideal timeline. Um, and I I do want us to have that conversation about, you know, what to do with the remaining resolution. Um, but I think I do think that would be more appropriate to have later, perhaps after our 5-year forecast. Um because you know this isn't the last conversation to Dr. Chapman's points about um reductions we're going to have to do and um you know we're going to have to have these continue to have these conversations. Um thank you President Dr. Miranda. >> Thank you. >> So we're talking about this resolution 7.1 million. It is more than the 6.6 million. Um, and so if

080we're ready to pass the resolution, call the roll call. >> Mr. Kameir, >> yes. >> Mr. Simmons, >> yes. >> Dr. Pierce, >> yes. With the recommendation that we have the discussion around the timeline at which we discuss the other resolutions um to reduce staffing monthly or more regularly. >> Vice President, >> yes. >> Dr. Kennedy, >> yes. >> Miss Adair, >> President Dr. Miranda. >> Yes. >> Motion carried. >> Motion carries. We also have 4.4 which is to freeze administrator salaries. Is there a motion to accept this resolution? >> Motion. >> Thank you, Mr. Simmons. Second. >> Second. Oh, sorry. I can't. Sorry. >> I'll second. >> Okay. Mr. Kmar, second it. Okay. Any discussion? If not, then if we can call the role. >> Well, I think yeah, >> I I I just

081want to this was something additional. This was not part of the initial board resolutions and um I think that you know again our administration stepped up in this regard and um you know looked in on itself and said how can we be a solution to this and really it's about protecting the classroom and so um you know this was brought to us um as a way to um you know continue the effort and so I just want to commend the admin administration on this um and um I know that all of this is extremely difficult because this is humans and this is um you know positions and this is people's livelihoods and so um I just want to extend a thank you to you and all of those that will be impacted by this freeze.

082>> Thank you Miss Adair Dr. Pierce. >> So with this resolution is it possible to include the cost savings? I think as we think about again the effect that these resolutions are having, it would be helpful for us to know that figure the community. >> Um Mr. Cook, can you >> Yeah, we can we can get the figure on the estimated savings. It's not a budgeted item um until it would have been board approved. So there's really no expense reduction. It's an expense that didn't occur, but we can certainly get you what that figure would have been. >> And I appreciate that because again, it is just informative to help the community understand what the cost savings are. Yeah, we can add context. Absolutely. >> Let can let Can I say something about that? So,

083again, just to be clear, what this really is is freezing what we would call me too. So, our administrators are not getting what was negotiated for some of our other staff and so they have frozen themselves and are not taking the me too. So, it's that's why it's money we have not yet spent. >> Yes. Thank you. >> And so, thank you for not we we are not spending that money. Therefore it can be redirected uh in different ways in different positions >> and also um following Mr. Cook it would be estimated we because we have not done it. It was not in the budget. >> Correct. >> So this is a projection. >> Yes. >> Context will be helpful and it's central office >> and it's for central office. Thank you. Yes. >> Yes.

084Not building principles. It's only central office. >> So whatever we release, can it clarify that it is for central office? That is the me too clause. But I think it's important to give the context to the community. >> So it's central office to be clear. It's in the resolution. It's stated as nonschool-based administrator positions. So nonschool-based. >> Non-school-based. Okay. Thank you. >> I'm fine with the saying, >> Mr. Simmons. >> Thank you, President Dr. Miranda. Um I I did want to share, colleagues, we don't have a meto agreement with our administrators on compensation because our administrators are not in a bargaining unit. Our meto agreements are with our bargaining unit members um not with our administrators. And so I I don't I disagree with the framing that our administrators are not taking a raise. This

085is the leadership of our organization, the board, and the superintendent making a determination on um compensation and the best path forward for our districts and for the education of our students here in this community. Um and then I did just have a quick question. Dr. Chimman, you said there was a staffing plan on the agenda, but I don't see that on the agenda. I misunderstood what you were saying about that in the dialogue with Dr. Pierce. Is this the staffing? It it doesn't look like it is. >> That is a part of the work plan that we're discussing this evening. >> Understood. Sorry, I miss I thought you meant Gotcha. >> All right. We have a resolution on the floor that has a motion, a second. Are we ready to call the role? >> Vice

086President? >> Yes. >> Dr. Pierce? >> Yes. >> Mr. Kameer? >> Yes. >> Mr. Simmons? >> Yes. >> Dr. Kennedy? >> Yes. >> Mr. Adair? >> Yes. >> President Miranda? >> Yes. Motion carried. All right. Difficult. Thank you for that work that your central office did and for the board. Um, we hit the mark. We still have work to do, so we can talk about that. All right, we're moving on to board appointments. 4.5. Uh, delegate of the Ohio School Boards Association annual conference, Jennifer Adair. The alternate will be Sarah Engles. The legislative liaison will be myself. The Johnny Foster Minority Scholarship um is Dr. Tina Pierce. It is TBA to be announced that they never ask us, but in case they do, you will be there. >> Council of Great City Schools liaison is

087myself, OSBA student achievement liaison Brandon Simmons, OSBA board of trustees Patrick Hudzmire, and the CCS transportation work group will be Dr. Germaine Kennedy. The board committee appointments pursuant to the authority granted to me under board policy 0155 and board policy 0173. I antet Miranda, president of the Columbus City School Board of Education. I'm pleased to announce the appointments of the following committees. Committee chairs and board members of the committees. Before that, I want to just give an outline um of the work. All of the outline work of the committee lays the groundwork for the board to fully evaluate with community input the guard rails that correspond with board goals. In addition to work of the committees, the board leadership team will work to create additional opportunities to engage the community around various topics and concerns.

088It is the goal of the board to target the board's community engagement to be meaningful and productive. The community engagement should be targeted to answer the specific questions the board needs to identify answers to and should be geographically widespread so that all the major regions of our school community have a meaningful opportunity to engage. Previously the board had a community engagement committee that specifically worked on developing plans to build in community engagement. That work will continue, but it will become a charge of each and every committee to find ways to build community engagement into their work. And speaking with the former chair of community engagement, Christina Vera, she supported this model as a way to more clearly align the community engagement work to the work the board is doing through its communities to largely address

089and guide the organization. Therefore, as you will see, community engagement has been built in to each committee as a strategy and goal moving forward. Members of the committees will be asked if they would like to continue on the committee. Members of the Sunset Community Engagement Committee will be offered an opportunity to join one of the other committees where there are available spots. Where there are additional spots open on the committees, there will be an application process by which community members may submit an application to be considered for one of the committees and match based on skill set and interest and available upon spots. I will now run through the committees in a quick overview providing the intended goals and outcomes of each committee and the expected outreach and engagement for each committee. Academic and facility

090alignment committee, the board chair will be Jennifer Adair. The board members are Dr. Tina Pierce and Germaine Kennedy. The committee charge the committee is charged with engaging the community around desired outcomes for CCS students which may include but is not limited to academic programming and opportunities for students, extracurricular and other programmatic support for CCS students, careermies, school lottery programs, and transportation. before or while doing this engagement. The committee should have a solid understanding of what is offered by the district at each level of education. So that by the end of the year, the committee can honestly and reasonably produce a report around what the community wants to see at every level of education and how much change that would require. The goal of the committee is to identify academic offerings, supports, and programs that the

091community wants to see in our buildings. The mini committee is charged with collecting feedback, data, and information to answer a series of questions. These questions are broken out with different goals now through June and then again now through December. Now until June, the focus questions with the community should be currently, where is the district, what does the district offer, what does the district not offer, are you satisfied with what the district currently offers, why or why not, and why are you choosing CCS? From July to December, the focus questions with the community should be, "How can we get the community what it wants? What does it cost to give the community what it wants? And what are the barriers to giving the community what it wants?" These questions will lay groundwork for future discussions around

092the goals and guard rails. They will also set the stage for the full presentation of a strategic plan that integrates the FMP, the equitable and transparent resource management committee. The board chair will be Pat Katrick Katzmire. Board members will be Jennifer Adair and Brandon Simmons. The committee is charged with engaging the community around management of district assets and future use. This work should include discussion around recent board actions, the most recent FMP and any strategic planning work that has taken place to date. The work of this committee should focus around the use of district assets and answer questions around future development, repurposing, renovation, upkeep, and potential revenue generation. The goal is to flush out these questions more thoroughly and integrate them into an integrated and developed strategic plan. Now until June, the focus questions with

093the community should be what will what will the board do with the 270 East State Street property? The committee should begin discussion about other administrative sites. Also, what will the board do with Broadley property? What will the board do with Muller property? What will the board do with Fairwood property? Additional properties the board needs to immediately consider and what was the previous FMP and does the previous FMP work for the needs of the district or does it need to be modified? From July to December, the ETR committee will work with the AFAC. Focus questions with the community should be how can we get the community what it wants? What does it cost to give the community what it wants? And what are the barriers to giving the community what it wants? In addition, from July

094to December, the ETRM committee should also begin asking the community the following questions. What will the be board do with the remainder of the properties that the board has previously voted to close? Please know that we have deliverables in June and deliverables in December that will be mapped out for each committee that we will present at our board meetings. Policy and governance committee. The board chair will be Sarah Engles. The board members will be myself and Jennifer Adair. The committee is charged with engaging the community around selective policies that merit such engagement and that do not amount to purely legal or compliance fixes. When possible and appropriate, the committee should give notice of changes to board policies that will be moved to the board table that do constitute a purely legal or compliance fix. Additionally,

095the committee may refer policies to one of the other subject matter specific board committees for input and review. The committee is also charged with assisting the board and engaging the community on topics of board governance where it is appropriate to do so. Now until June, the committee shall focus on the following policies that have been board requested and upon which working groups have been formed and are in the process of making recommendations. Quality points, artificial intelligence, and Apex Apex VCAP. In addition, the committee may engage in policy reviews and discussion on the following topics. Additional necessary and immediate policies as recommended by the district's legal department. Financial and fiscal policies as requested by the treasurer. Additional necessary and immediate policies as required by state or federal law. Additional necessary and immediate policies as requested by

096the superintendent or as recommended by the internal auditor. And additional necessary and immediate policies as requested by the board. From July to December, the committee chair shall work with the board and district administration to identify and evaluate which policies are most pressing and urgent for the committee to continue working on through the remainder of the year. Because policy is an area that is legally driven and as needs change through the development of the strategic plan and work of other committees, policies may become priority throughout the year and will require additional analysis. I appreciate each member's willingness to serve and contribute their time and expertise to this important work. I think Dr. Pierce said it can be a thankless job, but we are very grateful for what everybody um puts in. Please join me in thanking

097the committee members for their service and in supporting them as they begin their work. Also, pursuant to the authority granted to me under board policy 0155 and board policy 0173, I, Antinet Miranda, president of the Columbus City School Board of Education, dissolve the community engagement committee previously established by the board as it will no longer function as a separate committee. I further direct that its purpose, responsibilities, and objectives be integrated into each of the other three board committees. All right. Superintendent CEO Executive Report. Dr. Chapman, do you have a report for us this evening? >> Yes, I do have a report. I have a few remarks and we'll be providing an update on the transportation work group. >> Okay. Thank you. >> So, good evening again and on behalf of all of our educators across

098the district, welcome back to all of our students. I know that our parents are excited that our students are back in their classrooms as of yesterday. Um, and certainly I just want to name and continue to thank um, our food service staff and all of our community partners that really stepped up last week to provide meals to our students during um, the calamity days that we had last week. We served over,300 meals at five different sites. I also want to thank Columbus City Council, Council Member Christopher White, and the YWCA Family Center for providing hundreds of free co-sai tickets to our CCS families at these sites as well. Um, our food service teams and our building teams did an amazing job of welcoming our families in during the cold um and providing them with support

099as well as meal services. uh their commitment reflects the heart of this district. Special thanks, huge thanks and shout out to all of our school custodians who worked around the clock last week to ensure prep and prepare all of our buildings, our grounds, our parking lots, our sidewalks to make sure that our buildings were ready for students and staff to return. On Monday, they did a herculean effort to ensure that um the mounds of snow did not block the entryways or the parking lot so that our students and families could return. And special thanks to our comm's team for ensuring timely, clear updates to reach our families all last week as we are pushing out messages in real time to make sure that our families had the most up-to-date information each day. So, thank you.

100Thank you. Thank you. was all hands on deck guest uh last week as we um continue to pivot and plan for those calamity days. Also, I want all of our families to know and be reminded that this is um the enrollment and school choice lottery window is opened. Um all of our families should have already started to receive communication about that. Enrollment for the 2627 school year begins this week for students in kindergarten through grade 12. If any of our students who need to enroll or change um their lottery options, they can do so now. Information on enrollment requirements is available on our website or they can call our central enrollment center. Um, and the annual school choice lottery is now open for all families who want to apply to schools other than their assigned

101school for the upcoming school year, giving families options across all CCS schools. Applications are always submitted through Infinite Campus, the parent portal. And to be included in the lottery draw, families should submit their applications by the deadline, which is March 31st. And now um as we want to inv I want to invite our chief operating officer Maurice Woods to provide us with a brief update on the transportation workg group. >> Welcome. >> Thank you. Good afternoon board president Dr. Miranda, Vice President Les, members of the board, Superintendent Dr. Chapman, Treasurer Cook, and Auditor Okconor. Um, I want to thank you for providing this opportunity to allow us to provide an update on the high school grades 9 through 12 transportation workg groupoup activities. As the superintendent mentioned, I'll be brief highlighting three areas of this

102work to date. One, with the help of the leadership from Kota, the city, Columbus City Council, and the Mid Ohio Regional Planning Commission, we have identified a cross organizational work group of transportation planning, data analysis, and traffic engineering subject matter experts. Two, a formal kickoff of this meeting is scheduled for this Friday, February 6th, and is being hosted by Kota. And three, the co-chairs of this workg group have had a few meetings, and their second pre-planning or their third pre-planning meeting was earlier this afternoon. So, we are ready to go. And in closing, I just want to remind this new board and some of the existing board members that the key deliverable of this work group is a January 2027 recommendation to the board on a plan for high school grades 9 through 12 transportation.

103Thank you. Now turn it back over to Dr. Chapman. >> I have one question. Will you be giving updates as you go um to the board? >> Absolutely. Our plan is to provide quarterly updates to the board. >> Thank you, Dr. Miranda. That concludes my report. >> Right. >> Mr. Okconor, do you have a report for us this evening? >> I think question, Dr. Kennedy, >> do we need to uh update our our working calendar for those updates for the transportation work group? >> We can Well, it's quarterly, so we can make sure we put them on the calendar. So, um, is that right, Mr. Woods? Is quarterly, so we can add those to the calendar so we'll be we'll know when you're coming back to us. >> Yes, we will get those on the

104calendar. Thank you. Mr. Okconor, do you have a report for us this evening? >> Okay, thank you. And Mr. Cook, do you have a report for us this evening? >> I do. It's time for our February 5 forecast update. Forgive me, I continue to refer to it as a five-year forecast. Past history, >> but it's now in three-year, right? >> It's a current plus three. Yes, >> current plus three. >> Threeear forecast, one year actual. Yeah. >> All right. If we could There it is. Thank you. >> And Mr. Cook, why is it a Why are we changing the language? I'm sorry. >> House Bill everybody >> House Bill 96. Um, the state of Ohio has changed. We no longer have a five-year forecast. It's basically a four-year current plus three out. We, as a

105district, have made the decision. We will continue as a best practice to look at five years so that we can keep an eye on where we're at as we navigate challenges. All right, if we could pull up that PowerPoint again, please. Thank you. Okay, before we get to the numbers, um I know we have some new board members. This is your first forecast for Columbus City Schools. Uh forecast is like a painting of the future based upon the numbers that we have today. the forecast. It's it's a key management tool that we update periodically and it's a basis for management to communicate with the board of education. In any forecast, the numbers only tell a small part of the story. For the numbers to be meaningful and provide context, it's important that you review and

106take into consideration the notes. And I've provided those notes in advance of this meeting. and we will make sure those are available on our website for our community members as well. The forecast encourages district management teams to examine future year projections and identify when challenges will arise. The entirety of the forecast is to help district management be proactive in meeting those needs. take a look at where we're at. What assumptions do we have going forward? And how do we begin to maximize our resources? Why does it matter? Three main drivers. It engages the board of education and most importantly our community in long range planning and discussions of our financial issues facing our schools. Board President Dr. Dr. Miranda laid out committees tonight, discussions around FMPPs, facility planning, and how that impacts the classroom. The

107financial projections are a key component to helping us navigate and plan in our committees and at the board table. Additionally, it serves as a basis for determining the school district's ability to sign the 412 certificate. As dictated by Ohio law, OC5705.412, 412. I'm required, the board president and the superintendent to certify that we have funds available to execute contracts with our labor partners as well as vendors periodically throughout the school year. Last but not least, it's to provide a method for the Ohio Department of Education and Workforce and the Auditor of State's office to identify school districts with potential financial issues. The forecast is divided into two sections, revenue and expenditures. The district's revenue is made up of two main sources, local and state funding. If you've had the opportunity to watch previous forecasts, we've

108talked about the 8020 split between state and local. We're still very much there. local 77.9% state 21.1 and nonoperating 1%. Again, I think that's important as we hear a lot of the narrative around tax reform in the state of Ohio. We're heavily reliant, we'll see that in future charts, on property taxes to fund the basic fundamentals we do for students. Expenditures are mainly salary, wages, benefits, purchase services, supplies, and materials. The largest being personnel. As we've discussed tonight, approximately 80.8% of our expenditures are people. A lot of discussion unfortunately around the budget reductions that we've had to make as a district. Um it's it's no surprise we're facing financial pressure with the action that's taken place at the state, the federal, the loss of Esser dollars, etc. This forecast, like the others, our cash balance

109is is actually negative beginning in fiscal year 30. We'll talk a little bit more about cash balance as we get deeper into the forecast. Expenses began exceeding revenue in fiscal year 25, last fiscal year, and that was to the tune of 22.4 million. the October 25 forecast compared to the February 26 forecast on our ending cash balance. The FY29 and FY30 projected cash balances decreased by 53.7 and 99.1 million respectively. Again, that's comparing October of 25 to tonight. Let's talk about these changes in revenues. We've updated our actuals for FY26 and projected those going forward. That's a $12 million increase over the forecast. Property tax reform, House Bill 335 and House Bill 15. Board President Dr. Dr. Miranda had asked me earlier, what is the impact to Columbus City Schools on property tax reform? $17.5

110million as we know it today. I will put an asterk by that in that House Bill 335 is very dynamic. LSC has provided us with some preliminary estimates. Everyone is still working through what the overall impact is going to be as we go forward. But based on those estimates and information we have to now circle back and answer your question, it's 17.5 million. All other revenues we've updated for projected interest on investments again as we see our cash balance decreasing. Obviously, we know we're not going to bring in the same level of interest income that we had going forward. So, we're constantly monitoring and tweaking that as we go. That's a $7.7 million decrease over the forecast. Overall, it's a net change of 28%. On the expenditure side, again, we've updated our actuals for this

111fiscal year and projected those going forward. We've also included a 1% increase in fiscal year 28 to fiscal year 30 for our non-personnel budget just to capture inflationary pressure that we've seen. Very modest increase that resulted in $700,000 over the forecast. A large item that cropped up late, our HR department has conducted an actuarial analysis of our district health insurance plan. And the results of that have had me move to our board caps on our district insurance. The total amount of that impact from where we had been previously to now is $93.4 million. So, as we talked previously about that 55 and $93 million decrease in our cash balance, that's where the largest part of that is coming from in this update from October to now February. Overall, the net change in our expenditures is

112a shift upward of 1.71% or 85.9 million. So, we've seen tremendous upward pressure on our expenditures primarily again due to that $93.4 million increase in our district health plan. Fiscal year 26, 5-year revenue versus expens expenditure, excuse me. Again, cash balance is negative through FY30. Expenses exceeded revenue starting in FY25 and are projected to do so through the entirety of this forecast, FY30. Again, Dr. Chapman has spoke, the board has spoken at just over hund00 million reduction or hund00 million deficit. We took a small bite of that with the 50 million, but as this forecast shows, our work still isn't done. the deficit spend continues and then because of inflationary projections takes an upward trend in the out years of this forecast. An important measure of a district's financial health is the days cash on

113hand. We've had some discussions around a cash balance policy 15 months or so ago. In 2026, we're projecting 99 days cash on hand. And by the end of this forecast in 2030, we're projecting a negative 30 days cash on hand. I want to hit pause on the forecast for just a second and circle back to our our bond refunding that we're doing to save our taxpayers some funding. We've had a lot of rating agency calls S&P Moody's and because of the nature of the shifts in the forecast, we've updated that. We've had in-person meetings. um they have affirmed our credit rating which is positive for now but I want to talk about our cash balance and and some of the insight that Moody's has provided me as they've analyzed our finances and looking at this

114$108 million refunding. So as we look to the future and plan for FMP strategic planning etc that's going to require at some juncture a bond issue to finance new facilities. Moody's was crystal clear with me. They were happy to see that we've taken action on that first $50 million reduction and and they made it clear kudos to the board. They are closely monitoring to make sure that we execute on that. because they're seeing challenges across Ohio. They're well aware of tax reform. So, they are focused in at a district level on making sure we can control what we can control. One of the notes that they had was a factor that could lead to a credit downgrade, which is not a great thing. We want to avoid that as we look to potential debt offerings

115in the future to finance buildings. operating deficits that cause fund balance and net cash to approach 25% of revenue without a firm plan to stabilize operations. So what does that mean? What are they saying? Moody's is looking at our decreasing cash balance and they know that we have a working 60-day cash balance right now, but we don't have a formal plan. So what they're saying is 25% of our revenue and that mathematical figure on $899 million a year in revenue is $224 million in cash. Just to give you some context on that, it costs us approximately $3 million a day to operate the school district. So if you look at a 90day cash balance, for example, that would be $270 million in operating cash. So, we're above what Moody's is recommending, but we're not too

116far off from that. So, that really jumped out at me. Factors that could lead to an upgrade, which is a positive. A multi-year trend of at least balanced operating results that lead to a maintenance of fund balance and net cash near 50% of revenue. So again, that's some of the analysis they do with our finances, and they've seen them all from our audited financial reports to the five-year. And what they're looking at as an independent rating agency on what they consider to be strong. Um, they released this report, I believe it was on the 30th or 31st of January. I will make sure I send a copy of this to the board tonight. It is available publicly on their website. um as we go out on February 11th to sell those bonds, investors are actually

117looking at this credit credit rating to determine our ability to repay the debt and how strong as an institution are we. But as we talk about in the 5-year forecast cash balance, I thought it was important to note some of the metrics that Moody's actually looking at when they analyze our data. We're getting there. Revenue versus expenditures. Again, look at that cash balance line. We can see the ending cash in green. I know I talk a lot about that, but that's the stability. That's what Moody's is talking about. And bear in mind, this forecast already has that $50 million reduction in it. It doesn't include anything past that, but what we're seeing and discussing tonight already includes the action that was taken, the $50 million reduction. So, I want to make sure you understand that

118cash reserves around here. This isn't wanting to cooperate. Here we go. So, a 60 today 60 to 90day cash balance is a responsible target at year end. We can't close our books with a negative cash balance. So, as we look to those out years, again, we have to be proactive on what are we going to do to stabilize our fund balance. It's imperative that we begin to talk about that. Um, find out what what's the board desire, what are the plans, what's the strategic plan, and how do we meld our finances together with respect to that as we go forward. In conclusion, ongoing risks, ongoing personnel negotiations, uh, the board had approved a 1% base increase. Again, I always like to highlight we will negotiate in good faith with our labor partners. That's an assumption

119that we have to put into the forecast and depending on where we land with negotiations, the board may decide to upward, revise that, etc. As we navigate forward, expenses again exceeded revenue starting in fiscal year 25. our deficit spend. We're facing tremendous pressure, property tax reform, 17.5 million approximately on the net with the impact. What does that mean and what are we seeing as we go forward? House Bill 335 limits our revenue growth from our inside millillage to inflation. the state's using a GDP deflator. Don't ask me what that is. Um they're they're still working that. Nobody's been able to really flush out what the mathematics are in that because again, nobody knows what GDP is going to be three, four, or five years from now. But a cumulative average of the past three years

120with this GDP inflator, we're projecting 9.15% on inside millillage and 7.65% for tax year 29. still sounds like pretty good growth, but prior to that GDP deflator, we were forecasting 16%. So, you can begin to see how we get to that 17, 18, $19 million decrease on House Bill 35 because they're rolling back the growth that we've seen in that inside millillage. House Bill 15. It involves lowering tax rates to promote new energy investments into the local area infrastructure as well as updating existing energy infrastructure. House Bill 186 doesn't impact us now. However, the 20 mil floor is coming. House Bill 186 caps revenue growth to inflation. again using that GDP deflator when you're at or below the 20 mil floor which we are expecting to be at in fiscal year 30 again depends on

121re-evaluations etc. What is the 20 mil floor? I think an easy way at least to me to try to explain this is think of the 20 mil floor like gap insurance. If you were to buy a car and you finance $50,000 and you drive it off the lot and you get in an accident, if you have gap insurance and it's depreciated down to 40,000 or whatever it is when you drive it off the lot, that gap insurance covers the difference on what you owe, you're held whole. So the 20 mil floor, as House Bill 920, for lack of a better word with that analogy, wrecks our millillage, rolls it back, the 20 mil floor serves as that gap insurance. So in this example here, we're projecting in tax year 29 potentially being at 19.39 mills.

122What the 20 mil floor says is you as a district cannot receive less than 20 mills. So the district is pulled back up. The taxpayers would pick up that 61 mil to hold us whole. It's more revenue. It's growth that we would receive as a district. It's why approximately 75% of the districts around the state are at or going to be at the 20 mil floor because they made the strategic decision years ago to do emergency levies because they didn't count against that calculation. They didn't roll back. It was a fixed dollar amount. So they didn't feel the House Bill 920. They received the dollar amount. We are with our reevaluations potentially going to be at the 20 mil floor. So again, our growth is going to be capped with House Bill 186. While we're

123not feeling that today, we're just a few short years away from that reality. I have no idea what the state may or may not do in the future with future property tax reforms. But again, it's important to note 80% of our revenue is property tax based locally. So we are very very very heavily dependent on what happens with property tax reform as well as that potential ballot issue that's looming out there as well. So there's several risks and challenges that we face. We're beginning discussions. We're taking action to begin to control the budget the way that we can, managing our expenses, but as we've said, there's more work to be done. We still face significant structural deficits in this forecast with those reductions. So with that questions, >> Dr. Pierce, >> we have had a

124lot happen with finances this evening. So I have a couple of questions. >> Sure. >> To make sure I'm following. So when you initially gave us this report, our goal was to have a meeting on the 27th to be able to approve this particular forecast. Am I following correctly? >> Yes. The goal was to present the forecast on the 27th. We have to seek approval tonight because of our refunding. Dr. Roush is literally going to hit send if it's approved by the board because we have to update our preliminary offering statement. We're going out to market on February 11th to refinance just over a hundred million in bonds. One of the things they need is the updated five-year forecast. >> So before I make the motion that we need because we need to update our

125five-year forecast, I just want to make sure that I'm following our numbers correctly. December 2nd, the board took action to approve estimated uh cuts of 50,453,610. This evening, we have effectively approved those cuts at 7.1 or 7 million. Is it 7 million? >> 7 million just over 7.1, I believe. >> 7.1. So, my first figure was like 7.1 million. But then this evening you brought an additional impact related to our health insurance where we are being impacted by an additional 93.4 million. >> That's correct. >> So it's really becoming important for us to take action to make sure that we're following our timeline as it relates to our financial position as a district. >> Yes, I would echo that. So the impact to put it in context to that the $50 million reduction over four

126years would be approximately 200 million. The insurance impact is approximately half of that at 93.4. Yes. We also have for clarity with the reductions that were approved in in December. We had a placeholder in there for just the 50 million. We didn't know what buckets they were going to go into yet. We have now reflected those into actually personnel, supplies, material, etc. So, they're in here. >> So, one final question. You we still really need to get to that 50 million. So, we're at the 7.1, but we really need to hit that that 50 million. >> Yes, that's been board approved. It's reflected in the forecast and will continue to be monitored by my office. We will again most likely provide some sort of an update in May on the the normal old timeline. We'll

127do a recast just to let the board know where we're at at that point in time. And then again in August we're required to present another forecast. So much like Moody's, we're going to continue to monitor that and watch it. But that number was board approved so it's still reflected in the forecast and I will update accordingly as we go forward. >> Other questions? Mr. Simmons. >> Um, thank you, President, Dr. Miranda. Um, Treasure Cook, I did want to ask with the forecast. So, I understand, you know, we put the 50 million down in there as, you know, one item initially and then when you started to go into the buckets, you went you used the the exact figure that the board voted on the 50.4 the or the 50 million and then it was

128it was 50,400,000 something. So, that Okay. So, because we approved more than the the the so far if we continue with the board direction to the superintendent and she brings back um legislation responsive to the board's directive we would be over the amount that we approved on cutting and so that would show up on the forecast down the road as a variance. >> That is correct. We would note that as the act Yes. Yes, sir. That is correct. >> Um thank you. And then I did want to ask um before we get to the legislation on the consent agenda to approve the forecast um is it are we because of the timeline I'm not sure when the law actually you know changed the cycle. Are we approving a five-year forecast or the the three-year because

129the agenda says five years. >> We're approving our fiveyear we're going to submit to the state the actual current plus one. I'll call it the four-year forecast. We're internally monitoring that. I can submit five to the state. They'll zero it out. They're not paying attention to that. So, we're doing that for our compliance monitoring, but we will submit the forecast as they now call it to the state. >> Okay. Um, and then just the the the last point of discussion I have is I would really um like our board to have some um discussion and dialogue around the cash balance policy. I do think it's important we um you know have some guardrails and for you know um it's a common policy that many school districts here in Ohio have. Um, and I think it's

130a it's a best practice that's been identified um, both by the Ohio School Board Association and lots of school boards in our region. And so at some point I I hope us to have be able to have some dialogue and discussion about that. >> I would agree with that. >> Yes, Mr. Adair. Um, Treasurer Cook, um, can you maybe explain at a very fundamental level to the community about why we are seeing this budget crunch right now what is going on that is making us really when I look at this, it makes me sick to my stomach. um what is going on that is causing this to happen where we do not have the funds that we need to properly educate our students. I >> think the easiest way to say it would be they

131have not funded the fair school funding plan adequately which as we've talked over the last several forecasts has shifted more of the burden to our local tax base. Um, we continue to advocate, Dr. Chapman and I testified to that they need to fund the fair school funding plan. That is the most equitable formula that I've seen and the lack of funding to that has decreased the resources available to the district to educate students. I think that would be my simplest fund the fair school funding formula. and they and you mentioned that the the burden is really they're shifting a lot of the burden back to local and this isn't just here at CCS this is all over the state and you you have projected that um if we keep going at this rate about 90%

132of the tax burden will be on our local tax base in a few years >> yeah we'll be at the statutory floor we're close to that now um where state chips in no more than 10% so I think yes that's a problem again we're we're we're having these conversations ations around property tax reform and the impact that it's having on, to your point, not just our community, but those around the state, but yet they are forcing us back to the very communities they say they're trying to provide relief to. Our option as a district right now when our revenue shortfalls occur because they're not funding the fair school formula is to go back out for additional resources. That's a levy. That's property taxes. Um, I think this is a massive issue that that isn't getting

133enough attention. Um, I think they're strangling our finances. We're having discussions around property tax reform and and and how that's going to provide relief to the tax base. But then again, they don't fund the formula, which forces local governments to go back out on the ballot to seek property tax reform. All of which then again comes back, in my estimation, to hurt the students in the classroom. It takes away the resources we need to properly and adequately fund education. >> And Treasurer Cook, when um you know, I hear all the time in our community, why CCS? Why why do you have to keep coming out for levies because you keep coming uh all the time and we just gave you one and we cannot afford it. Why is it that um the amount of the

134levy you you said this, but I'd like you to maybe >> sure >> say it in plain English. Why is it the the amount of the levy that we go and ask for doesn't sustain us uh in perpetuity? >> House Bill 920 removes the ability for us to get growth or inflation on our millillage. It actually rolls it back so the district doesn't see those increases. House Bill 920, as I use that car crash analogy, wrecks our millillage. It it it forces our hand as a district to go back out because there is no growth. It rolls that millillage back. We saw that I wasn't here but in in 2023 when the levy passed I believe it was asked let's say seven mills I'll get the exact. By the time we began to collect on

135that it was passed in November and collected in January the millillage was already reduced just because of the timing of updates. So that's really what House Bill 920 does to your point. It does not allow us to capture growth in a high inflationary environment. Our revenue basically is stagnant and now they're clawing back on the inside millage growth we could have received from 16% to nine. It's $20 million we're not going to have to put into the classroom. That's a problem. >> And last question. Um I know that you know we're in the process of this property tax reform and there's a lot of different things on the table. Um, but you know, if there are major changes to the way that uh districts, all school districts in Ohio receive funding through property tax, are

136you aware as this as our treasur, as our professional financial expert, if property taxes are not available to us? How do we fund our institution of government? >> That's a great question. I'm unaware of any fix as proposed by the state at this point. That's a problem. >> Thank you, Miss Singles. I guess I was just going to ask on um future bills that you have certainly been monitoring in the legislature. Um, it seems like the bills that you have highlighted talk about the revenue that is generated through levies that already exist and there could be um conversations around assessment and the process for assessment and how that may affect the fiscal and financial uh future of our district. And so, have you seen any other um bills that you are monitoring currently? um you

137don't have to go into detail with them, but do you have concern uh about future possible legislation that could impact the financial health of our district? >> Short answer, yes. There's there's a lot out there. Um one thing that I'll note in this forecast, the tax commissioner came out in the SEXA trienal, the six-year update, he has the statutory ability to shift that a year. We talk about hitting that 20 mil floor that was pushed out a year. Can't change the trienal updates. There may in fact be legislation that perhaps comes along, etc. But yeah, we're constantly monitoring those. I would say Dr. Rous and I I'll call us a bit of policy wonks on that if I may. But we hear every day it's not great news. What I don't yet know is what's

138being talked about is actually going to be introduced and what's going to stick. if you will. But the threats are real. I mean, they're they're coming. They're they're constant. They're non-stop. Um I I really I hate to see what's happened to the fair school funding formula because again, I started in this environment with what we called residual budgeting. It was, you know, the state did their math and you got $50 a student and, you know, I hate to admit you were happy to get an increase. I fear we could be back to those days versus what does it take to appropriately educate a student based on real numbers that districts are putting out there. Um so yeah, it's a problem and I think again with 80% of our budget, there's a lot of threats on

139the horizon and on the environment and as we see those really drill down and target us, we'll certainly keep you aware of those. But there's there there's too many potential items out there to really count at this point in time. Mr. Katzmire. >> Uh, thank you, Treasure. This um the the insurance premium actuarial swing seems uh large and uh about $20 million a year. Um over the course of the forecast, is that right? >> 23.5 million per year. >> Okay. >> Um again, I've I've met with the individual once, heard it, fell out of my chair. We had a follow-up meeting to say, "Okay, here's what we've seen. Here's where we've been. Where do we need to be in the future on that?" And that is the projection he gave us. But yes, to your

140point, $23.5 million a year over the forecast. >> Do you have any um inclination of of something that's changed or something that we need to change or think about with our our policies to prevent that? I do not I know that our HR team, J Dr. Chapman's team is working on that with um Steve Parsons is the actuarial firm. I'm not privy to all the nuts and bolts of as to what has caused that. I was really brought into the conversation because I needed to get a forecast put together. I knew that they were looking at some shifts and find out, okay, what is this financial impact a to get into the forecast and b I had a bond issue that we were refunding out here. So, it was a material change. But yeah, I

141know they're working with him. Um I I don't want to put Dr. Chapman on the spot, but I know they've carved out some time um in the future. If you want to speak a little bit to that. >> Yes. So this um certainly we've been engaged in um learning more about what has significantly increased those rates regarding our health plan, which will certainly require, you know, additional conversations about plan redesign. But once we have all of that information finalized, we'll have a more thorough uh detailed update to provide the board and I think we have time calendared soon to have that conversation. >> Great. Thank you. Thank you, >> Dr. Kennedy. >> Thank you, Treasurer Cook. This this really is a question around collaboration and u how closely or or how is this forecast really

142really aligned with uh Dr. Chapman's work plan priorities particularly when we look at those assumptions around uh enrollment uh optimism around 1% in labor negotiations. How how how does that all factor into play? >> So we really haven't done any work around where we may or may not land with respect to negotiations. Um every week I get an enrollment report. My team works closely on that who are constantly taking a look at where we're at with respect to staffing. It sounds like tonight she's got some information she'll share on that. I'm confident that once that staffing plan is developed, we will have conversations around that because when it's 80.1% of our budget, it's a huge impact. I can tell you as we've we've navigated these cuts, um we've seen our teams fly up and down

143the stairs in some cases literally with with things to look at, numbers we need to cast, etc. So, I would say close and I expect that to continue. So I think when we're in this financial state, it's imperative that the two of us work closely together frequently and often to make sure that the information I have and the things that my team is seeing through a fiscal lens encapsulates and captures what they see on the academic lens, if you will. So I think that's critical. >> Yes, Mr. Simmons. >> Thank you, President. Dr. Miranda. Um, Treasure Cook, I did just have um a couple questions. So, I understand that this forecast covers our general fund. Um, but we of course have other funds. Um, and so at this point in time, are there any other

144funds um besides the general fund and the insurance fund um that we have identified that are at a state of deficit spending? And it's okay also if you don't have the the answer right. We that's something feel free to follow up. Um, >> yeah, I I will confirm and follow up. Um, I would say WCBE >> is is of ongoing concern or if you're not aware, the Corporation for Public Broadcasting has has ceased operations and we received some funding from them. The board has traditionally here transferred around $700,000 a year. Um, with the loss of funding, we're projecting at least that this year. That does have, to your point, an impact on the general fund. Um, I think health insurance has been deficit spend. I'll have to get you the exact figures on that. It's

145certainly been exacerbated by whatever the actuary seems. I I would say with insurance, dollars in, dollars out or claims. So, there's there's something moving there and I just don't know what yet. >> Those are the big ones. Um, our our grants and student activity funds will typically run in the red throughout the year, but that's because they're doing um, you know, a fundraiser. Grants are reimbursing. We'll submit our consolidated applications to the state of Ohio. Um there there's a lot. Just for context, our general fund is is a billion dollars in appropriation. All funds is 1.67 billion. Our anticipated revenue to the general fund is just under 900 million. So we've we've got several hundred funds, but I think those are the biggies. Um I will if if you don't mind the opportunity take a

146look and just confirm but I would say health insurance definitely has some some struggles at hand. WCBE is a big one that's been ongoing because we transfer funds general fund as we've discussed tonight's in the deficit didn't neglect >> with on the topic of of WCBE. So with the loss of the funding from the grant from the corporation of corporate the the public broadcasting corporation, um with the loss of that funding, um does that mean in the next fiscal year WCBE will have to either reduce the services it provides or find a way to make up that the hole that grant has created? I can't speak to the services, but I would say they're definitely going to have to have some discussions around that revenue. If they can't raise the revenue, what we have historically

147done as a board is transfer funds in at the end of the year to help sustain them. Um, I'm just not intimate enough on what they can or can't do with operations, >> right? But I I I have concern continuing to do that because I I know the grant from the federal government was significant um in terms of a share of their budget. But I do want to move on um just to the um current um state of deficit spending out of this fund. Um so we've already addressed the 50 million and we addressed 15 million before that. Um you know what's the the current remaining balance to be addressed by that that zero day cash >> in order to get you know that number to not be in the negative? >> Yeah. So if

148I understand the question what what after we've taken this $50 million bite of the apple on our our $und00 million deficit, how much is left? >> Right. Right. Right. Now that we have this new information, >> yeah, in fiscal year 27, we're projecting 59.9 million in deficit spend in the general fund. And for context, as we get to fiscal year 30, it's 116,400,000. And again, that's driven upward primarily by our 93.4 million health insurance. As we've seen going forward, we see continued pressure on inflationary pressure with expenses, but we've reduced 50, which dropped us down from that 100 to let's say 50 for easy math. And then in these out years, as we face inflationary pressure and growth and rising expenses, we're back up to over a 100red million at the end of this forecast

149projected. >> Okay. And now, um, I know we've had a lot of conversations in the past about when is the best time to tackle our remaining deficit. Um, you know, you just told us about those inflationary pressures that will push that number um upwards as time goes on. Um, and so, you know, I'm I'm not going to ask for a formal recommendation because I don't want to put you on a spot, but do you have any ideas or thoughts about the the best the timeline for us to tackle that? Um, you know, you're saying by August of 2026, calendar year August this year, fiscal year 27, we're going to have that 59.9 deficit that we're going to have to either reduce expenses or decide to carry over into the next fiscal year. >> Yeah, I

150I think the conversations are are continual and ongoing. Um, I know Dr. Chapman has been, I would say, crystal clear with we're not done. Um, I to your point, and I thank you for that, I'm not ready to put a number on what the next round will be. I'm very much in the mindset of I want to get this one effectuated, make sure we've we've hit the targets where we're at, update the forecast, true it up, and then begin to have those discussions as we go forward. However, I think it is fair to say that, you know, we're staring at anywhere between a $59 million deficit in 27 all the way up to 116. We still have significant work to do. I will also say there's two state budgets. Um, you know, nobody wants to

151talk about it. we've got to wait and see with property tax reform, but is there a balance in there? Increase revenue, decrease expenses, or kind of a combination of the two of those. Those are all scenarios that, to Dr. Kennedy's point, we're going to be working with as we navigate various challenges we face from transportation, deficit funds, and WCBE, etc. and then work with the board through committees to make sure we're projecting we have a handle on where we're at, what the academic vision is, what the facility vision is, and how does that all intersect at the financial, >> right? But I I don't think the next state budget will be more advantageous to um all students in Ohio, but particularly urban districts and urban students. You know, I think it's going to, you know,

152likely continue to become less favorable. think we've seen the high water mark >> and you know I certainly would encourage us um you know when we have discussions around our legislative platform um sometime this year that the board is supposed to vote and improve on so ever so often I'm not sure um you know certainly um asking for some expanded opportunities to collect revenue only options really are um property taxes or um income tax and if we do that there's a lot of you know it's not the same as if a city in Ohio does an income tax correct um so certainly seeking um other legal authority to collect revenues um you know I don't know whether that's a allowing ing school districts to put a tax on, you know, alcohol and cigarettes or, you

153know, hotel beds. I don't know what it is, but um, you know, I think that's probably, you know, more likely than just simply asking the state to to give us more money. Maybe they're give us more authority. Um, but more money at this point, that doesn't seem likely in the upcoming >> Yeah, I can I can tell you we've had those conversations. My office, we're look we're always looking for alternative revenue streams. There's some districts up north that with respect to facilities, they've they've passed a sales tax to fund facilities. We can't do that for operating. Um, but there there's some things out there and I think to your point, we we've got to continue to communicate with our legislators. We've got to impress upon them the need for strong local public educational institutions. It's

154the bedrock of our community. So, I think we we'll continue to have those conversations. We have them frequently with legislators. I would anticipate that pace to pick up >> um just in the environment we're in. >> Thank you. >> Yep. >> Yes, Dr. Pierce. >> Um, so I have uh one question and then I guess one comment. Um, Treasurer Cook, when you talk about grants, can you specifically speak on the impact of Medicaid grants as it relates to our district and how it is affecting our um impacting our budget? >> Sure. Um, so we have historically done the last several years, I'm going to give kudos where kudos are due. Auditor Okconor's done a tremendous job um working with our team around Medicaid and the and and the funding and Medicare that we get. that

155has grown to approximately $7.5 million a year. Um just a tremendous upward tick again dollars that we can now reinvest in the district. In our forecast, we have begun to back that down just because of the narrative we see at the federal level around that. I know there there's expansion programs that are taking place. Again, there's some conservancy there as we wait to see and digest what the federal government's going to do. But Auditor Okconor and the Medicaid team, Mickey, etc., the folks that I've interacted with, we understand what a tremendous resource that is. I do. Anytime you see that growth from a couple million dollars, which isn't pocket change to us as individuals, but they've been able to put that on upward trajectory to 7.5 million a year, that has a measurable impact. I

156think it's critical that we continue to seek every dollar we can on that reimbursement. I'm confident the team can continue to do that. I'm in constant communication with Auditor Okconor about that impact and again every dollar we receive can and will have a meaningful impact on the classroom. >> I appreciate that. Uh so again um this evening we see that there are a number of uh federal as well as state policies that are impacting public funding in our district in particular. And as we think about again our bo well in December our board was very committed to saving as many positions as possible decreasing that um 34.6 million to that 25.9. I think even as we move forward understanding that we have a lot of work to do when we are um figuring out what

157that next step is I really think there's a sense of urgency on the part of our board to have the larger dialogue at the board table so our community is fully aware of what we are up against some of the challenges that we face and the opportunities that we have. And so as much as possible, if we could go back to our working calendar and figure out how more of these financial discussions can be fed in um whether through the board table um at our public body meetings or through ETRM, which will now be chaired by um Mr. Katzmire. I think it's important for us to really dig deep into our budget and again what those challenges and opportunities are. Again, I I thank you for the questions. I apologize for the timing on presentation

158and then approval tonight. It is listed in the consent agenda for approval. >> Yeah. Were we Oh, sorry. I didn't I was waiting until questions to make the motion. >> You're okay. Well, it's part of consent. >> Yes. Part of consent. >> There we go. >> But just everything you said, I think we have to be cognizant of the fact that a lot of this we can't control. And that's what is frustrating is that we can't control the the legislators. >> That's right. um we can try to influence them, but we've also seen it that hasn't been too successful. >> Yeah. >> Um but I I think we continue to do that and then as you said begin to look at are there other streams of funding that we can get. Otherwise, we'll be back

159at the table for a levy. But we are not the only district. In fact, every district in the state of Ohio is facing this. >> Yeah. >> Every district. It's just that because we're so big, our deficit is bigger. >> So another district's 8 million is huge to them. >> We think it's chump change compared to ours. But I think it's important to understand that every district every district in the state of Ohio is experiencing this. >> Yeah. We we talk in terms of dollars here and they're large to your point, but you know, a 4% deficit or reduction in ours is the same impact that a 4% >> Yes. reduction in a smaller district is going to feel. At the end of the day, those are still students we're talking about. Those are still

160dollars they're not going to have available on the educational side. So, yes, we we get that target because of our size and scale, but to your point, public education across Ohio is feeling this impact again of the lack of funding on that fair school funding plan. >> So, we also have to um make sure we are always on top of legislation that's coming down the pike that affects education. So always being on top of that. >> Okay. Any other? If not, we will move on. It's getting long into the night. Um we are now ready to approve the consent agenda. Agenda. We are going to consider our consent agenda. Our consent agenda consists of items 9.1 to 23.8. Are there any items a member would like to have removed and voted on individually from the

161consent agenda? If there is no >> motion to approve the consent agenda and second >> a discussion point. Okay. >> Yeah. I just want to call out 13.2. I know our public speakers did a really great job of that today. So I won't go too long but um the authority to purchase solar carport. It's a great start in the move towards solar energy and green sustainability and um so thank you so much to our team in the back who has been doing this work. Hi Jeff. Um appreciate you all. Appreciate you all um for advocating for it. This is really exciting and a good step in the right direction. >> Thank you Dr. Pierce. And I just want to point out 15.3 um this evening we are approving um if it is has not been

162changed approval for our 12th graders at East High School to go on a tour of our historically black colleges and universities. And so that's definitely fitting that that is happening in black um history month. But it's also fitting given the conversation that we've had tonight around public education. when we see that our students are achieving and doing great things where they will contribute to educating future generations by being teachers, by being lawyers, by being public servants. Um, we need to highlight that as much as possible. So, kudos to all of our students at East High School throughout our entire district as they prepare to fill out FASA, college applications, and if I'm not mistaken, I know I can's founder scholarship application, I think, is open. So kudos to everybody that's helping our students be successful.

163>> Thank you. If there are no other discussion, we'll call the role for the consent agenda. >> Dr. Pierce, >> yes. >> Mr. Kameer, >> yes. >> Mr. Simmons, >> yes. >> Madair, >> yes. >> Dr. Kennedy, >> yes. >> Vice President, >> yes. >> President, Dr. Miranda, >> yes. >> Motion carried. >> Thank you. There's no other legislation. Um, Vice President Les. >> All right. It is recommended that the board of education move immediately into executive session pursuant to Ohio Code section 121.22G1 22G1 to consider the appointment, employment, dismissal, discipline, promotion, demotion, or compensation of a public employee or official or the investigation of charges or complaints against the public employee, official, licency, or regulated individual unless the public employee, official, lency, or regulated individual requests a public hearing and G3 to confer with

164an attorney for the public body concerning disputes involving the public body that are the subject of the pending motion or imminent court action. That is a motion. Second, >> Mr. Dair. >> Yes. >> Dr. Kennedy, >> yes. >> Vice President Les, >> yes. >> Dr. Pierce, >> yes. >> Mr. Kame, >> yes. >> Mr. Simmons, >> yes. >> President, Dr. Miranda, >> yes. >> Motion carried during exact session. >> Yes, you can say. >> We just get up.