001the Little Miami School Board meeting for January 28th, 6 PM. Roll call. One second. It's not working. Why is it not working? Bear with me one. Oh, there it goes. All right. Technology. Uh, Mrs. Horvath >> here. >> Mr. Sber here. >> Mrs. Block >> here. >> Mr. Wallace >> here. >> Mr. Smith >> here. >> Right. At this time, stand for the pledge of allegiance. I >> pledge allegiance to the flag of the United States of America and to the republic for which it stands, one nation under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all. >> [laughter] >> No. Is it working? How you want it? >> Looks weird. >> All right. Uh, each month the Little Miami Board of Education takes time to celebrate outstanding individuals who make our district such a special
002place. These students, staff, and commun community members exemplify leadership, character, and Panther pride in all they do. Tonight, we proud we're proud to recognize this month's honores who truly show what it means to be a Panther. First, we'd like to start with our Panther character award with Mr. Sbert. [snorts] We'd like to recognize five deserving students as this month's Panther Character Award winners. This honor is presented to one student from each of our schools. The students are recognized by their teachers and peers for their hard work and good character. This month's character trait is commitment, making a plan and put it into practice. We would like to ask the following students to come here and line up in front of the board facing the audience. Carter Wolfrram, Leila Corin, [applause] [applause] Blake Wesley, Leah Kenneth,
003and Hunter McKan. [applause] Oh, what a distinguished group. Um, Carter Wolfrram. Carter is a kindergarten rock star. He shows his commitment to improving literary school skills every day. Carter has worked with his teachers, Mrs. King and Mrs. Brown, to master his letters, sounds, and he has start to bending those sounds into words. We are incredibly proud of his commitment. Carter has demonstrated this year in kindergarten. Carter is a fantastic Panther Cub. Thank you, [applause] Leela Corin. Leela truly exemplifies the character and trait of commitment in our classroom. She consistently makes a plan for her learning and follows through even when the work is challenging. Leela works extremely hard every day and never gives up, especially in the areas where she has to put in extra effort to succeed. She takes pride in her learning and
004always does her best to earn strong grades through the p perseverance and focus. In addition, Leela sets a wonderful example for her classmates by staying on task, using her time wisely, and showing responsibility. Her dedication and attitude shows what it means to be a committed and learning student. Thank you. [applause] Blake has gone above and beyond to show commitment this year. He works so hard in his class to always do his best and continually gives 110%. He is determined to be the best he can be in all areas of school and in his extracurricularum activities. He not only practices and works at it, but he does it with a smile and a positive attitude. A super proud I am super proud of Blake and all around the amazing kid that he is. Thank you. [applause]
005Laya shows great commitment with her schoolwork and academics. She did an outstanding job on her electric house science project. She wanted to do a model of Mrs. Wilkerson's classroom and her commitment to the project and the theme she chose was absolutely amazing. All her teachers are so impressed and thank you [applause] Hunter. Hunter is an incredible musician with big goals. Hunter has been working diligently and practicing and performing every chance he gets and is getting ready to record some of his original music. He recently performed at our PR prep assembly and was exceptional. And I'm quite sure Greg Robinson is very proud of you. Congratulations. [applause] >> Oh, okay. [snorts] [clears throat] Hang on one moment. I think I think Yeah, we we have another We have the uh Panther award. >> One more award.
006>> For a second. And >> that for you. >> Yes. >> Yep. >> All right. Congratulations, guys. [applause] >> [applause] >> All right. Uh, tonight we're proud to celebrate a teacher from the middle school, Mr. Seth Meyers, a seventh grade educator who brings passion, positivity, and creativity into every classroom. He goes above and beyond to make learning meaningful for students and creates an environment where they feel supported and motivated. Beyond the school day, Mr. Myers leads enrichment opportunities and is a valued member of our language arts team. His commitment to students and colleagues truly reflects the best of Little Miami. At this time, could Mr. Meyers, language arts teacher, Mrs. Francoski, and the middle school principal, Mrs. Parker, come up? >> [applause] [applause] [clears throat] >> Hi everyone. Good evening. Um, I am so excited
007to talk about Mr. Meyers this evening and um, I'm not going to wing it. I'm just going to read because I want to do him his justice. But he is a dedicated staff member for Little Miami. Mr. Myers is always looking out for his students, his colleagues, and the school community. He does what is right, even when sometimes that can be difficult. He is reflective and always looking to improve as a teacher, a role model, and a person. He is student focused, running multiple school after school opportunities tailored to students who may not have other activities available to them. His Harry Potter and Star Wars clubs are always full of students. He builds relationships and puts in the work to maintain them when things can get chaotic and stressful. He is one of the many
008things that makes the middle school so special and our students are so lucky to have him. Thank you so much. [applause] Hello, I'm Carrie Francoski. I am lucky enough to teach language arts alongside of Seth and I made some notes about why I think he exemplifies Panther pride and is so deserving of this award. Now, I could list a lot of things, but I won't. I'm only going to tell you two things. I narrowed it down. So, the first reason why I think Seth is so deserving of this award is, as we've heard, he does host some afterchool enrichment clubs. These clubs are well attended, but not only that, they provide a place for students who may not otherwise feel like they belong and have a place. And with Seth, they do have a place
009to connect with other students and allow their unique qualities to shine. So, those clubs are so important to many of our students and appreciated by everyone. The second thing that I wanted to mention about um Seth is his spirit of gratitude that Seth embodies. It's truly inspiring. Um, I have one example that stands out to me most and that example is the day before we were coming back from Christmas break, the normal sentiments were going around like, "Do we really have to go back? How did our Christmas break fly by so quickly?" Um, those were the sentiments and I felt those as well. I opened my um social media that morning and I saw a post from Seth and um his post was not talking about how we have to go back. His post was
010saying how excited and thankful he was to get to go back to get to come back to school to teach his students that he so genuinely cares about. And those are the sentiments that I strive for and that I really look up to. So that was so memorable memorable to me which is why it made the list for me to tell you about tonight. So for those reasons and a lot of others um I want to congratulate him and say that we're so lucky to have you at Little Miami schools. Thank you, [applause] [applause] guys. All >> [applause] >> right. We'd like to uh congratulate our Panther Character and Pride Award winners. We like now uh we would like now for all our award winners to head to the lobby for pictures. Congratulations. [applause] You
011got my hand. Yeah. Yeah. Yeah. Yeah. No, no, no. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. This is the agenda items. This is first, second order. Thank you. Thank you. All right. Uh so the little Miami mission statement, the board believes it is the responsibility of the school system to ensure that each graduate is college and career ready. To these ends, an environment of high expectations and expectations and opportunity shall be opportunity shall be created that created that fosters scholarship and fosters scholarship and citizenship and citizenship and develops with each develops with each student the ability student the ability to become a to become a productive and responsible productive and responsible member of member of society. society. At this time, do we have a motion to adopt the agenda? >> I'll move. >> Second call. To
012these ends, an environment of high Oh, correction. An amended agenda. Amenda. Amended. >> Let me Do we have a motion to >> accept the amended agenda? >> I'll move. >> I'll second. >> Hold a vote. >> Mrs. Horvath, >> yes. >> Mr. Sbert, >> yes. >> Mrs. Bullock, >> yes. >> Mr. Wallace, >> yes. >> Mr. Smith, >> yes. >> All right. Uh at this time uh do we have a motion to uh accept the minutes from January, excuse me, from December 16th, 2025 regular board meeting, January 6, 2026 organizational meeting, and January 20th, 2026 special board meeting. >> I'll move second. Roll call. >> Mr. Sver. >> Yes. >> Mrs. Bullock. >> Yes. >> Mr. Wallace. >> Yes. >> Mr. Smith. >> Yes. >> Horvath. >> Yes. >> All right. Superintendent comments. >> Yes.
013I uh welcome Hamilton Township Administrator Jeff Wright. Uh Hamilton Township Police Chief Scott Hughes and Hamilton Township Assistant Police Chief Quillin Short to the podium. Good evening everyone. Thanks for allowing us a few moments of your board meeting to uh speak to you. Uh my name is Scott Hughes. I'm the chief of police Hamilton Township. I'm joined by Assistant Chief Corland Short and Township Administrator Jeff Wright. Um most everyone in this room is familiar with the uh tragic death of one of our officers. uh Megan Graham. Um we're here to publicly thank the school uh for their assistance in that. Uh but I want to back up and just kind of walk you through Megan and kind of what she went through uh in in late 2024. Uh Megan received word that she had uh
014serve stage four cancer. Um, she obviously went into into very aggressive treatments and in the summer of 2025, she, for lack of other words, was in remission. And then in the fall of 25, she had received word that, you know, the the the cancer had um had gotten worse. And uh Wednesday the Wednesday before Thanksgiving, she came into our office and um she she told us that she only had weeks to live, which obviously caught us all by surprise, as you can imagine, because we were clearly under the impression that she was going to make a full recovery. Um so, you know, it obviously takes time to kind of absorb all that and process that. Um, one of the things that Megan wanted to do was she wanted to go have dinner at Hell's Kitchen
015and her and her mother were supposed to go to Hell's Kitchen in 2020 and then of course CO happened. So that plan never came to fruition. So long story short, um, we through some contacts, uh, it's all about who, you know, uh, got a private jet uh, to fly Megan and her family from Lincoln Airport into DC. Um they landed in DC through our contacts with the federal government. We arranged for private car service to pick them up and unfortunately um as she was on the way to the restaurant, she experienced a a medical emergency. And unfortunately, she never made it to to Hell's Kitchen. So, uh Megan's father called me that night and obviously again, you know, we're all kind of you got to be kidding me. Um, so fast forward a couple days
016now, obviously the conversation starts about, you know, funeral arrangements and what's that going to look like. And Megan, when she was in my office the Wednesday before Thanksgiving, five days before I guess this happened, she had given me some specific request that she wanted done. And then there were some things that she didn't want done. So to respect her wishes, we knew we were going to need a large venue. Um, so that weekend, uh, so this is Thanksgiving weekend. Um, I called Regina and she answers and I said, "Hey, this is what this is what we're thinking. Uh, we need a school and let me call you back." So, hour later, she does what she does and we get the, um, high school reserved. So, um, lots of conversations obviously occurred between that day and
017the day of the funeral. there lots of planning as you can imagine. There's just a lot of behind the scenes work that that uh had to take place. Um specifically, um and I just want to I just want to call out a few individuals specifically. Obviously, Regina, I want to give credit to Joe Smith, uh, Brad Underwood, Rob Mason, I don't have my glasses, Wayne, uh, Dave Flora in particular, all of those individuals, um, in my opinion, uh, went above and beyond what they had to do to make sure that we, uh, paid respects, uh, to Megan. So, uh, you know, we're still kind of all trying to deal with this. We're still kind of processed and this whole thing is still fresh, but just know that it it really meant a lot. It really
018meant a lot that that Little Miami stepped up and uh and helped us out. You know, I know Jeff has some comments he wants to share on behalf of the township. Um but you know, we we as a police department absolutely love the relationship that we have with you and and you know, this just further just kind of illustrates that and why this is is so important. So on behalf of the police department, thank you very much and thank you. Thanks to everybody who was there that day and helped out. I appreciate it. >> Jeeoff. >> Thanks. >> Yes, sir. >> Yeah. I just want to briefly amplify a lot of what Chief Hughes said. Um, not only was it important what you accommodated to the PD, but to the entire Hamilton Township family. Um,
019the relationship that a city or a township has with its school district in my opinion is the most critically important external relationship we need to have. And I want the board to know that you have that from your staff, from my perspective, whether if it's Regina, Terry, Chad Conl, Joe Smith, Brad Underwood, and a lot of others. Their responsiveness to our questions, our needs, it is so gratifying and comfortable when a local leader such as my team knows that we get that in spades from your team. So, I appreciate it. It's a part of their culture. I hope we never lose that. It makes my job a lot easier as well as all of our departments. So, um, appreciate that. I They probably do that in more ways than you're even aware. And that's that
020speaks for their humbleness as well. So, thanks for that. That Saturday to celebrate Megan was more than just turning a key and flipping on some lights. We know that that took a lot of hours above and beyond what some school district staff will do. So, thank you very much. >> Thank I just want to say thank you to to you all as well. The partnership is great. We rely on you all as much as you guys ask us for things and so uh thank you for all you do for that great partnership as well. It's certainly appreciated on our end as well. >> Thank you. >> Next up, I ask uh Mr. Ray Warick to the podium to provide us with a board report for the rear Warren County Career Center. >> Good evening. I
021have a couple things to share with you. I attended my first meeting at the career center and uh the major thing of course uh is to expand the facilities so that we can take more students. The most popular um class right now is heavy equipment and right now during this open enrollment 100 kids have signed up for that class. Unfortunately, we can only take 30 and we kind of see that in a lot of other class areas. So, we've known that for years, but a good thing is happening. Um uh the superintendent has been approved to select a design company to do the first part of the expansion which will accommodate uh the healthc care uh classes which are currently being done in a building down by the Middletown Hospital on a in a building
022with a pretty complicated and bizarre arrangement that hopefully we'll be able to get out of. Uh the career center owns the building. Premier Health owns the property. Uh, Middletown financed the thing and then University of Miami was supposed to be a tenant with us the whole time, but they took off, left us holding the bag. Um, as a part of this whole thing to transition and and expand on the main campus, uh, the career center paid off the bond. So, uh, we're in the building rentree and we're hopeful that Premier is going to want to buy the building and, uh, so all of that hopefully all that timing works and we'll move those folks back. Probably the second thing that will happen is the construction of a pole barn where they're going to want to
023move the heavy equipment uh, out there and that'll free up quite a bit of space in in the in the main building. Um, all of this comes about because they've uh had a what you call permanent improvement account for some time. I believe it's all funded by just transferring uh general fund money into it. I don't believe it was ever attached to a levy, but it's it's got a nice uh uh set of reserve funds there. So, it no problem taking care of that first expansion. probably no problem taking care of that pole barn. Um, but the other thing that I discovered at the first meeting is they're being rather aggressive about rethinking budgeting and um, you know, sometimes we get in bad habits and departments overrun their budget and the adult ed program was
024doing that for I guess quite a while. And in the last fiscal year, they overran their budget by $400,000. And uh they decided, well, wait a minute. Let's take a look at that because we really want to any amount of money, general fund money we have left at the end of the year, we want to move into that permanent improvement fund. And and so they took a look at it. They made some moves. They made some cuts. Not any personnel cuts, but cuts in spending. Wasn't popular, but they got it done. Their new treasurer, Katrina Hillyard, actually started her finance career here at Little Miami. Everything she knows Terry taught her. [laughter] That's what she told me. >> Well, it was a lot, but I wouldn't say she's she's very smart. >> Yes. And and
025aggressive. and and they're going to take a look at a few a couple other departments and see if they can kind of replicate uh and save some money where there's duplication and maybe some waste. And uh because right now the goal would be to try to over time do the expansion using that that PI money. Um, we may not get all the way there, but at least the good news is in the short run it can be done that way because, you know, property tax is such a popular thing right now. Uh, putting on a new levy probably wouldn't be the easiest thing to do. So, we've got some time. And the other thing I think this board should consider, another reason they want to be pretty aggressive about reviewing their budgeting and me really
026I think they're kind of going in the direction of zerobased budgeting. My words, not theirs. Um because we don't really know what's going to happen with the property tax. I mean, they passed four, five things. Um band-aids on a terminally ill patient in my uh opinion. And um the momentum of that petition to get rid of property tax in Ohio is not over it. They're still gathering signatures. And of course that would throw the whole world upside down. So the other thing they talked about with this budgeting work was we don't know what's going to happen. And so we may, you know, if we can have extra general fund money in an emergency, we might have to uh tap into that. So I I appreciated the the explanation that they gave at my first meeting
027about that. And uh uh hopefully it all all works out. U but the good news is they're moving ahead. I think probably Joel King, the superintendent, has probably selected a design firm uh for the first part of the expansion because the board gave him permission after they narrowed it down to three companies. They they they took in uh specs from seven companies. The board narrowed it down to three and then told Joel, "You just go ahead and and they ranked them. If you can make a deal with number one, good. If you can't, then go to number two. But I think I think it's already done. So hopefully they can move ahead quickly. That's all I have. Thanks. >> Thank you. [clears throat] >> That is all I have. >> All right. Uh this [clears
028throat] time uh need a motion to go into executive session to consider the investigation of charges or complaints against a public employee, official, lency, or student, and to confer with an attorney for the board of education concerning disputes involving the board that are subject of pending or imminent court action. >> So moved. Second. >> [clears throat] >> vote. Call a vote. >> I I have a question. >> Sorry, excuse me. >> I have a [snorts] question. How many individual actions are we going to talk about in there? >> I would defer that. Uh Omar, how how we're just speaking about one The reason it's written the way that it is so that Omar can give an update on other due process cases that we have. Um, but there is one particular that we'll be working
029on specifically, but the but there's a two-part to that executive session so that can happen. >> Questions or comments? Right. Call a vote. Mrs. Block. >> Yes. >> Mr. Wallace. >> Yes. >> Mr. Smith. >> Yes. >> Mrs. Orvath. >> Yes. >> Mr. Sbert. >> Yes. >> All right. At 6:30. Executive session at 6:55. like to make a motion to amend the agenda. Under item, let me see here. Sorry. Under item G1, uh, amend the agenda for the separation agreement and acceptance of resignation 26-004. >> I'll move. I'll second. Discussion. Call the vote. >> Mrs. Boolock. >> Yes. >> Mr. Smith. >> Yes. >> Mr. >> Wallace. >> Yes. >> Mrs. Horvath. >> Yes. >> Mr. Sbert. >> Yes. Next, we have a community comments on the agenda. Uh, Little Miami uh, local school board
030of education encourages and welcomes communication from residents of our community. Any individual who wants to address the board during a meeting must have signed up prior to the meeting uh, with the attending school official. I have the list up here. Comment should not involve personal issues and are limited to three minutes per person. And speakers will be recognized by the board and must state his or her name and address. Uh the first person is uh Tessa Malowski. Tessa Malowski. I live in the district. I have three kids. Two that receive IEP services and one that's um in gifted services in the high school. I haven't public spoke in a long time since my grandpa's funeral and all of a sudden I prefer a room full of secret service agents than this, but I'll try my
031best. Um, the needs of the students and staff should be first instead. Instead, sometimes they're brushed aside to usher in policies which may not contain real data or evidence. Teachers and special education evaluators have to show at least two or three data points with it ease at every meeting. Proposed wants have been shared with news stations and news articles affirming agenda items are based on values and beliefs. Policy based on subjective morality could possibly contradict the rights affirmed in the First Amendment. Policy based on subjective morality also have no place in the public sector. Our growing population and overcrowded classrooms should take precedence over items such as monitoring classroom decor. These are distractions from real issues that ignore the needs of students and staff. Dismissing a long-standing lawyer, introducing a no new lawyer with no
032time to vet, and introducing a contract to an outofstate consulting firm could be considered non-typical actions. Mere minutes into being officially sworn into office, board members have have enough evidence to support an out of town lawyer. Evidence was not presented to all the board members with at least 24-hour notice. But the board is expected to vote without review. Time and energy were spent finding an out-of-state consultant instead of focusing on core issues. A consultant firm that is unfamiliar with Ohio Revised Code and is not a CPA or a tax attorney. Teachers have upwards up to 25 students in their home room with new students still being added. Additionally, additionally, we have yet to offer full-time kindergarten or preschool. These are examples of pressing issues that require immediate attention. Instead, hiring a new lawyer and bringing
033out of out ofstate inexperienced companies were made a priority. Issues such as underpaid subs and teachers, transportation needs, custodial needs, athletic department needs, cafeteria overcrowding in the high school, hazard pay for our staff members that do car duty twice a day, filtering, I don't know, 75, 100 cars. All it takes is one accident and one parent not paying attention and something we might be on the hook for a lot of money. We need to allocate more time to reaching out to our local townships and communities in preparation for the uptick in neighborhood growth and also the increased enrollment that that will bring. And if that's been doing if that's happened, does the community know about it? What are we doing to prepare? Bookf fair vendors, classroom posters, and school walkthroughs have little to no effect
034on a state a student's daily or long-term success. A student with an empty stomach or an overcrowded, overworked, underpaid, and underappreciated teacher has more of a direct impact on a student's success. Thank you. [applause] >> Next up is Courtney McKeon. >> [snorts] >> Hello, my name is Courtney McKeen. My address is on file. Um, >> can you say state your address, please? I have the other ones written down. Here's why I didn't ask it. >> Okay, it is on file. I have written it down before. >> Okay. All right. >> And can you state your address? >> Okay. It's 3190 Yellowtale Terrace. Everything I'm about to say is my personal opinion. Members of the board, your community needs, deserves, and expects accountability, trust, and transparency. Many of you ran for election on a platform of
035fiscal responsibility. And as elected officials, your community is counting on you to follow through on those promises. As a community, it was hard to watch in your first meeting as a new board a nomination and immediate vote in the same meeting for a new legal service with little apparent opportunity for board deliberation. That is not how we expect the board to function. Your community expects collaboration, professionalism, and transparency. Given these expectations, I believe the community would expect that any new business or service presented for board vote should go through a competitive RFP process. with multiple bids so that due diligence is done and the most financially responsible option is chosen for the best fit of the district as well. Each RFP should include details of the following which we have not seen so far in
036the things that are happening. A complete itemized financial with detailed cost breakdowns, including ranges and guidelines for variable items and contract language that states clearly any amount over the itemized requirement and requires an updated contract before additional services can be provided. Data security and integrity is also critical for our district, I believe, and making sure that things are considered that we have not seen regarding channels of secure transfer of data. Are we sending stuff via email or are we doing SFTP, secure file transfer protocol for those who are not aware? Whether the service provide agreed to sign confidentiality agreements and whether or not AI tools will be used and if so, what safeguards exist if those are being used with our data. The district should be protecting the data of all of our financials as
037well as our students. Other considerations include research that the community deserves to see your due diligence on. Include vetting vendor history and references from other districts, including outcomes and any concerns that come up from those districts, reviewing publicly available consumer and business records where relevant. considering vendor location and prioritizing local or Ohio-based providers when possible to avoid unnecessary travel costs and ensure familiarity with Ohio law. Ensuring the provider has demonstrated background in education, law and educational operations so that we do not get ourselves in trouble if someone's not familiar with education specifically ensuring that the mission and values of that provider also aligns with the mission and values of our district. I think that is very critical. We have a lot that we have prideful here as p as panthers that we want to make
038sure that we're protecting our district. If the board is serious about change and transparency and fiscal responsibility, your community needs you to show with your actions louder than your words that you are doing these due diligent things. Thank you. >> Thank you, [applause] Gina Baldwin. >> [snorts] >> I guess moving forward. I I messed up on the first uh person. Everyone could just state their name and their address. >> Okay. So, we need to say their address again >> if if you could. Yes. >> Okay. My name's Jenna Baldwin and it's written down as 983 Tindel Court because that's where I live. Um, the other speakers were much more eloquent, so I'm going to be very pretty short and sweet here. Um, there are there are agenda items today and some from the January 6th
039meeting that involve either moving contracts to a new vendor or embarking into a new contract. Miss Bullock and Mr. Smith were elected on a platform emphasizing the need for transparency [snorts] and fiscal responsibility. I'm concerned that we're not seeing this. I'm concerned that the district is not seeking multiple bids and proposals for new or different service providers such as the switch to Omar Tarazzi and the proposed use of Brisco Consulting Group. These are things with many provider options and prices available. Unless there's an emergency, I see no reason why time for due diligence is not being taken. I'm not one that believes the lowest price is the best, but I do firmly believe in value, and I don't think we know what value we're getting if we're not seeing any competitive bids. Hearing proposals for
040multiple firms allows for a much better evaluation of that value. If committees are being used to vet potential new vendors, which can be of great use to bo to help board members time, then the sunshine laws require those to still have public notice and be open to the public. I have seen no public meetings for any of these changes. This either reaffirms that due diligence is not being taken or it raises the additional concern that either the board or certain board members are refusing to be tr transparent and thus would be violating the law. >> Thank you, [applause] Vicky Greger. My name is Vicky Greger. I live at 8110 Malberry Street. Um I just have a question couple questions that hopefully will be addressed this evening later on the agenda. But um my major question
041is why do we need another financial audit? Is there some sort of impropriy that we are not seeing that we need to know about or is this just a waste of money? Um, all I've seen happen here since our two new board members were elected, since Mr. Wallace was made president, is money being spent. And we're not given reasons why that money is being spent. That's all I wanted to know. Thank you. >> I'm having trouble, Jackson. Seca, >> thank you. >> Uh, Jackson Squella, 1402 East at Swank Road. Um, I'm a junior here at Little Miami. I've gone to Little Miami entire life. I love it. I have two sisters that are older. They went to Little Miami and then I have a younger one. So, I know Little Miami in and out. I
042just wanted to talk on the superintendent personnel um particularly with the administrators coming in. I listened to the board meeting a couple months prior and I got a little anxious when I heard that the regular um reissuing of s of principal contracts was kind of up in the air. I don't know how you guys are all thinking about voting on the issue today. Um but I just wanted to give my perspective as a student. I think a lot of times it's easy to think that the administration kind of affects the teachers, but how it affects the teachers really directly impacts how the students um go throughout their day-to-day lives. My sisters were at the high school before Dr. Harlland um started to lead it and they described the school in a very different way than
043how I would describe it now. The teachers were a lot less um upbeat and they made it seem like it wouldn't be crazy enjoyable. I absolutely um love all of the teachers that are there and I think you can tell a direct relationship between how the administration um talks to the teachers and how that helps the teachers teach the students. Um and this goes for all levels. I've had Miss Gates as a principal and Miss Miles, my sister had Miss Quinnland, all the ones that are um in that personnel thing. They are fantastic administrators and I would hate to see them leave. Um, I'm at the school a lot, probably spend most of my time there. And I think I would just like to say on behalf of all the students that are in agreement
044with me, it would really be disappointing to see a lack of action mean that they go to a neighboring district or somewhere else when we are succeeding with them um here now. So, thank you for your time. I appreciate what you guys do. >> No, good job. Thank you, [applause] >> Lynn Ratliff. >> Can I just say that was impressive. >> That was impressive. >> I agree. >> You You get a straight A's for quarter three. [laughter] >> Uh good evening, members of the board. I want to be very clear from the start. I support an operational efficiency audit. Our district should always be looking for ways to improve and use tax dollars wisely. What concerns me is not the idea of the audit, but the process being used to select the people who would
045conduct it. Recently, we engaged a law director who does not have formal experience in educational law. Now we appear to be entertaining doing business with a consulting firm whose owner is currently a procurement director in a large Texas school district. While he has experience in contract and budget management, he does not have formal accounting credentials nor a proven track record working with districts of our size and structure in Ohio. While we are not like his school in Texas, we are a much smaller district operating under Ohio law, Ohio education regulations, and Ohio public contracting rules. Those differences matter. I'm also concerned by reports from other Ohio districts that have worked with this consultant, including legal challenges tied to his recommendations that raise serious financial and compliance questions. That alone should signal the need for a
046careful review and due diligence. This is not about personalities or politics. This is about governance and fidiciary responsibility. If any professional or a business setting, a hiring engagement of this scale would go through a formal RFP process. Multiple proposals would be reviewed. Finalists would be interviewed. Qualifications, legal compliance, financial expertise, and track records would be thoroughly vetted before a decision is made. This is true for any contract including our law director and Brisco Consulting. That process that's a process that protects the district. It protects the board and it protects the public trust. There are five of you on this board and you were elected by community members with different views, different priorities, and different expectations. But you share one responsibility to act as a careful and impartial steward of this district's resources and future. I
047may not agree with every decision that you make, but I should always be able to understand that the decisions were made with transparency, diligence, and a clear commitment to doing what is best for our schools and our community. My request is simple. Slow this whole process down. Open it up. Issue an RFP. Compare qualified firms. Ask the hard questions. Make sure whoever you hire understands Ohio law, Ohio education finance, and Ohio districts like ours. Let's run this district with the same standards we would expect from any well-managed organization because our students, our staff, our taxpayers, and your constituents deserve nothing less. Thank you. >> [applause] >> Libby Shelton. >> Pretty much everything's been said. I'm not as eloquent as they are, but I agree totally with an independent audit. That is fine. But again, it's
048the way it's being handled similar to the way the um legal counsel was or the career center person. You know, you're a board of five people. You were elected by the different people in the community who put their trust in you there and you ran on transparency, transparency and fiscal responsibility. Yet at the first meeting of this year, just when you, you know, the new people were sworn in, things were put on an agenda that two of the members had no idea was going to be on an agenda. You asked for a vote on that same day. Why was there such a rush to get into this? Most of the time companies or any organization, you know, ask for names of different people. They inquire um all through the community through the state to get
049names of different people to review and vet and look at their qualifications. You are only bringing one to the table and asked to vote on it which isn't taking the interests of these students, the community, the teachers, the administrators. I I don't understand what the rush is and why it has to be done so quickly at the first board meeting of the year when everybody is just sworn in. You're getting to gel as a group together. But you all need to work together. Don't take us back in time. You know, we've worked so hard to get where we are for the school district and this community. Thank you. >> Thank you. [applause] Julia Perilman. >> I'm probably going to be a little bit of a broken record, too, but I think it's important for you
050guys to hear from as many people as you can. Um, Julie Pearlman, 5730 chancellor in Hamilton Township. Um, I'm the mother of three successful Little Miami graduates. I've lived in the community for over 20 years now. Um, at the first meeting of of this year, board members David Wallace, Mandy Bulock, and Dan Smith voted to make a change in legal counsel to the district. They fired a firm that specializes in Ohio school law with literally decades of experience, and they hired Omar Terzi. Mr. Terzi operates a solo general law practice in Hillyard, Ohio. Although his politics do seem to align with the board members who voted to hire him, um he doesn't have little to noer experience um in education law. There was very little constructive discussion by the board and it certainly seemed as
051though a decision had already been made outside of that public meeting. Tonight, the board seems to be teeing up a similar mistake in my opinion. Agenda item two under board action which others have been talking about is the consideration of a proposal from Brisco Consulting Group um for the in their words a comprehensive analysis of oper operational revenues and fiscal management mechanisms which is a fancy way of saying they're going to tell you all if you're spending your money responsibly. Um if the board was acting with transparency and fiscal responsibility they would be considering multiple proposals not just this one. Without more than one proposal, what criteria are you using to make your decision? And how can you possibly know if Brisco's fees are even reasonable? According to the proposal that was included with our
052agenda, um their base fees are nearly $10,000. And the contract would also require the district to pay for things like transportation, lodging, and other expenses that will undoubtedly be significant because the firm is located in Texas. Properly vetting any contractor um to work for the school district should include things like checking credentials and experience, reviewing any u reports available on past performance, and identifying any potential legal issues, lawsuits, or negative media coverage. The website for Brisco Consulting offers some bold claims about Mr. Brisco's experience, but there is literally nothing there to support those claims. There's no information about other clients. There are no reviews of their services. Like Omar Terzi, Mr. Brisco appears to be a one-man show. His only experience comes from working as a purchasing agent for a lo single school district in
053Texas. He's not a CPA. He does not have an accounting degree and appears to have no credentials or formal training in school finance or operations. Social media is literally loaded with negative information about Brisco's work with Riverside local schools and Zena Community Schools both here in Ohio. I want to be really clear um like some of my the previous speakers were. I have no problem with you all wanting to have a third-party um analysis of of how the money is being spent and everything done. I know that your job, a large part of your job is oversight. So, that's perfectly reasonable, but the way you're going about it is not. Um in my opinion, accepting this proposal is not a good decision. And if you do decide to continue with a vote tonight, I certainly
054hope that we're going to hear what your justification is for hiring this particular consulting group. Thanks. I just wanted to finish my sentence. [applause] >> All right. Next item on the agenda is the uh treasurer's report. >> All right. Under item E number one, I ask for the board's approval of the following contracts as listed. Second. >> I'm just I'm just wait. Yes. >> Um I'll go through these briefly for you. I'll read them all for you, but um the first one's with emerges. Um typically this is LPN services. Um these are as needed. Um we're not, you know, using them at the moment, but we will be needing them in the future. Um it's for special education services. The second one is Warren County Educational Service Center. Um this is also special education. Um
055this is $34,30. We actually get reimbursed by the district of residency on this one. So it'll be a net zero for us. Um the next contract is with gifted healthc care. This is also special education services. Um we have another emergence. Um this is actually for an intervention specialist. It's not an LPN. Once again, special education services. Um the next one is Lebanon Citizens National Bank and it says various because those are actually fees and this is our depository agreement. By law every four years you have to pick a bank where you're going to do your main banking and so on and um it's all by code by high revised code. Um Lebanon Citizens is our local bank obviously they very good to work with very good to us um with their fees and what
056they pay us in interest and so on. Um would love to maintain that relationship with them there. Um the next one is Homemakers Farms. Um and this is actually revenue coming in. Uh this is for the rental of the land. We have the u roughly 40 acres on the corner of Ford and Zor. The uh next contract is in compliance consulting. This is um for investigated services. Um this is uh essentially it's not legal service but I think it's performed by attorneys to be honest with you. Um and then we have Niola. Um Niola this is for update support policies and guidelines. Of course, we changed all our policies to Neiola U from OSBA and this is what they call their um oh what's it called? Mr. Morgan I can't think it's called. Is it
057select? Thank you. Select service. Um once again it's as needed. Um I as actually contacted them wanted to know roundabout what is an average that deals you spend a year for select services. Most districts it's not more than $500. Um so not very much at all. And then the last contract is Reminger. Um and this is also for legal services. Questions or comments? Call to vote. Mrs. Horvath. >> Yes. >> Mr. Sbert. >> President. >> Mrs. Bolock. >> Yes. >> Mr. Wallace. >> Yes. Mr. Smith. >> Yes. >> Thank you. >> Next under item two, I have several donations from the Little Miami Athletic Boosters asking for your approval. >> Moved. >> A second. >> Actually, I believe three on here. Um, we have $2,226 towards the purchase of the uh high school boys lacrosse
058uniforms. Um, we also have $2,100 donation um towards the purchase of uh the Well, they both say lacrosse uniforms. All right, we'll double check that one, but it's two different amounts. I think it's two different sets. Um, and then we also have a $2,11 um for the boys and girls uh middle school uh uniforms also. U so once again, all from the Little Miami boosters, which we greatly appreciate their fundraising and donation to the district. comments. >> I want to thank the uh uh the boosters for uh supporting the athletics. >> No other questions. Call to vote. >> Uh Mr. Sber, >> yes. >> Mrs. Bolock, >> yes. >> Mr. Wallace, >> yes. >> Mr. Smith, >> yes. >> Mr. Horvath, >> yes. >> Thank you. And that's all I have. Thank you. >> All
059right. Next item is the uh superintendent's report and recommendations. >> Yes. I ask for the board's approval of all items under personnel. >> So moved. >> I'll second. >> Questions, comments, call to vote. >> Mrs. Bullock, >> yes. >> Mr. Wallace, >> yes. >> Mr. Smith, >> yes. >> Orvath, >> yes. Mr. >> Sbert, >> yes. >> Thank you. I ask for the board's approval of resolution 26-002. I'll move >> second. >> No comments. Call a vote. >> Mr. Walls, >> yes. >> Mr. Smith, >> yes. >> Mr. Orvath, >> yes. >> Mr. Sver, >> yes. >> Mrs. Block, >> yes. >> Thank you. I ask for uh the board's approval of resolution 26-003. So moved. >> I'll second. >> Comments. Uh, call the vote. >> Mr. Smith, >> yes. >> Mr. Horvath, >> yes.
060>> Mr. Sbert, >> yes. >> Mrs. Block, >> yes. >> Mr. Walls, >> yes. >> Thank you. I ask for the board's approval of the track and field field trip as attached. >> So moved. >> I'll second. Call to vote. Mrs. Horvath, >> yes. >> Mr. Sver, >> yes. >> Mrs. Bolock, >> yes. >> Mr. Wallace, >> yes. >> Mr. Smith, >> yes. >> That is all I have. Thank you. >> Thank you. Next item under board action, separation agreement and acceptance of resignation 26-004. So move >> second. >> All right. Uh [clears throat] this uh uh resolution I will read it. Whereas the board of education for the little Miami school district is authorized to employ personnel and enter into agreement necessary for the operation of the district. And whereas the board has presented
061with a proposed separation agreement and general release between the district and Tim Hooker and desires to approve the agreement in order to achieve a prompt global resolution and finality of all matters between the district and and employee and whereas employee has submitted a written resignation for all district employment effective January 28th, 2026. Now therefore, it be resolved by the board of education of the Little Miami School District, Warren County, Ohio, that the board hereby approves the separation agreement and general release between district and Tim Hooker as presented to the board. The board president and treasurer are hereby authorized and directed to execute the separation agreement and general release on behalf of the district and to take any steps reasonably necessary to carry out the terms of the agreement, including processing the settlement payment in accordance
062with the agreement. The board hereby accepts the resignation of Tim Hooker from all district employment effective January 28th, 2026 or such other effective date as may be consistent with this agreement adopted the 28th day of January 2026 comment call to vote >> Mr. Sver >> yes >> Mrs. Block >> yes >> Mr. Wallace >> yes >> Mr. Smith >> yes Mrs. Yes. >> Right. Next item is the uh financial review proposal. >> Um I Yes. I actually submitted this proposal. >> I'm sorry. Do we have a uh >> a motion? >> So moved. Second. >> Am I good to go? >> Yep. Yep. Yep. We're good. >> I submitted this proposal uh from BCG advisors for $9,500. [clears throat] I submitted it 10 days ago to the board for review questions and for them to
063contact the vendor. Um, I would like to explain a little bit of basics of the difference between a state audit and an independent financial review. A state a state audit um shows that you follow the rules. It confirms compliance and it's statemandated. And Terry does a great job. He's in no fear of anything happening to him. He we need him to do continue to do what he's doing. But an independent financial review gives insight into how our resources are being used and if those resources are truly working for our students. It helps with how to budget by identifying areas where we could reallocate funds to programs that directly impact our students. It shows transparency and strengthens public trust by demonstrating we are being good stewards of our tax dollars. The goal with doing an independent
064financial review is to reaffirm our commitment to placing students first and optimizing resource allocation and building trust with our community. I would like to thank the board for their consideration of the proposal. Um I was wondering I am wondering why we're going with someone in Texas. Are there not local options? >> Well um when I was campaigning I actually went to some of my training and I actually heard um Mr. Brisco uh speak on this. So I actually did a one-on-one with him asking him about it. I liked what he had to say. I have an accounting background so we had a lot to talk about. Um, so I felt comfortable with getting a proposal. So that's why I'm submitting it to you. Now, anyone on the board can submit any other proposal from any
065other vendor. They're more than welcome. This is someone that I'm proposing to put on. So if if >> I do like the idea of what they're looking into. I mean especially if it's for the betterment of the students, but I do think it would be worthwhile to look at other possibilities, especially if we don't have to fly them in. And >> did you happen to contact him and speak to him? No, I've just been reading about >> all of that. >> Well, and that's why during this period of a time of the 10 days that we had to look at this, this is what it was open to. If you would like to anybody else to put any other reviews out there, feel free. I'm not saying just go with this one, but I've given
066the time to be able to do that to do the research research to do the due diligence to make the decision. That's what I'm saying. I I put it out there. I did mine I did it through my campaign. >> Excuse me. Can you turn that off, please? Thank you. >> I did that through the um my campaign. I ran on this. It's a campaign promise basically that I I was going to do this and that's why I I have I'm putting it up. I did my research so I feel comfortable with them. But again, that's why I gave a decent amount of time at least to ask questions prior or into asking you any of you guys if you guys wanted to submit your own proposal or get your own financial. >> Well, I
067mean you were this was your idea to to pursue even doing this at all. It's not something we've we've done or proposed doing, >> right? And I just am saying I think it would be nice to have more than one for you for you to have us look at if you're wanting us to take go down this path at all. >> I did my research and looking at that's why I said I'm presenting the one that I would like to go with. If there is someone else that you would like to look at, I'm more than happy to look at that. But I'm happy with my decision here. I did the research. >> Any other comments? Yes. Yes, I have some comments on this. Um, with a contract this size, it's very, very common to
068do some of the things that have just been suggested here at our microphone by our audience to let these things go out as [clears throat] competitive bids. And I don't see that happening here. um this contract from someone in Texas um without any uh other vetting. I can't tell you anything about them. Have they come up here and presented themselves? What insurance do they have? What guarantee do we have? They can even perform the job that they're being hired to do. Do they carry their own insurance? I've seen none of this, but I've seen a whole lot of negative things about them. So, u actually [clears throat] it was my intent it was my intention to uh object to even the proposal of this Rosco group because they have no credentials. But I just thought
069I would wait and listen to what's said here. Let the let the community speak. Um and uh I will say that this group will not get my vote uh for anything. >> All right. Any other comments? >> All right. Call to vote. Mrs. Bullock. >> Yes. >> Mr. Wallace. >> Yes. >> Mr. Smith. >> Yes. >> Horvath. >> Nothing to say. >> Mr. Sbert. >> No. remind everyone that uh we need to uh uh keep the comments to ourselves during the meeting. You have every right for public comments. [clears throat] All right. Uh our next board meeting is Wednesday, February 25th at 6 pm. Now I'd like to move to the comments for non-aggenda items. >> I'm sorry. Second Oh, new new pol. I'm sorry. Did I Hold on a second. My apologies. Oh, new
070business. Yep. Sorry. [snorts] Uh, [clears throat] next item is the policy for the first reads. Do I have a motion to >> information? >> Oh, that was easy. [laughter] >> Chance to look at those and we can go to the second reads next month. >> And approval. >> In approval. Thank you. >> Thank you. All right. Uh, next item is what do we do here? The board reports. Do we have any board reports? >> I have a legislative report. So, there's a couple there's a few House bills that are being looked at right now for the 2026 session. Two of them would involve us. The other one has to do with um higher education um colleges. Um House Bill 643 is proposing changes to a school choice scholarship program in Ohio called Ed Choice Expansion.
071Right now, many Ohio families can get state funded help to pay for private school through the Ed Choice Expansion Program. And eligibility is based on income and other rules. This bill would add a cap on how much money a family can make and still get that scholarship. Um, so specifically, if a family's adjusted gross income is more than $500,000, their children would not be eligible for the Ed Choice expansion scholarship anymore. Um, so the idea is supporters are saying it will focus the program on families who need it the most. Um, opponents argue it limits school choice for higher income families. All right. And then the other bill that would be relevant to our um grades is House Bill 634. And this bill deals with who gets to play sports after transferring to a new
072school. Currently, if a student transfers from one school to another, like midyear or between districts, athletic governing bodies like high school sports leagues can sometimes make them sit out a season before they're allowed to play. And this bill would change that. So, if a student transfers and does not have a prior disciplinary punishment, then they must be allowed to play sports right away at their new school. And then if the student has a past suspension or disciplinary action, then the school officials would have to decide within 10 days when that student is eligible to play. And if they don't set a date, the student gets to play right away. Um, so basically, it makes it harder for athletic groups to bench transfer students unless they have a discipline issue. And those are the two that
073are currently somewhat relevant to um our district. >> Thank you. >> Any uh board comments? >> Yes, I have some. [clears throat] I've asked three times for the OSBA to be brought before this board for discussion and they they've been blocked all three times. Um OSBA has been around for 70 years. Everything that we're talking about, they're experts at. They've supported our public schools in financial and legal in all areas. They they have over 700 schools and over 3,500 uh representatives. They're uh more than qualified to do everything that we just hired Brisco to do. Um it's a shame that we spent the money on them on Brisco rather than on OSBA which offers a wide variety of uh various different things and it's a uh choose what you want once you join. You don't
074have to uh accept everything they say. many of the train much of the training is free um and uh you do it at your own leisure your own leisure so I think it's a shame that that's been blocked out of this uh school board and off uh from our community that's all I have to say right all right I think there's been some discussion about the uh flags and display policy. I know we we've looked at that in the past and speaking with our uh uh legal uh I believe there's they're putting together a policy right now. Well, not I shouldn't say a policy, it's more of a uh admin guideline. Thank you. On uh on adopting it. I don't have it in front of me. Does anyone have it? the policy number, >> anything
075[clears throat] of the policy on the details to read it into it. >> Oh, Wayne has it. I'm sorry. Thank you. >> I think this is the most updated Dave. I'm >> Thank you. Yeah. I just wanted to kind of talk. This is our our our our lawyer put this in writing and just some of the uh things uh where he would where I guess one of the policies would be because of questions may arise about whether a lesson activity reading or classroom display is considered sexuality content the district applies a common sense and objective standard. A lesson activity, display or materials is likely to be considered sexually content if a reasonable observer would conclude its primary purpose is to prompt discussion, provide instruction or solid student engagement on sexual concepts or gender ideology. And
076I should preface this, I'm sorry, this came from the parental bill of rights at at the state at the uh uh state HB8. So, in contrast, a brief incidental reference that is not intended to prompt instruction or student engagement typically does not trigger the policy's procedures. Importantly, [clears throat] the test is not whether someone agrees or disagrees with the message of a poster, flag, or book. The question is whether the displayer material meets the district's definition of sexuality content, and if so, whether their required procedures under policy 5780.01 01 have been followed, including parent notice and opt out rights when applicable. Because there is a defined process in policy 5780.01, concerns regarding possible violations should be addressed is the following order. So first, a written concern to the building administrator. A parent may file a
077written concern with the principal or the building administrator of the students school of attendance regarding topics covered by the policy. The building administrator will take steps with the parent or parents to resolve the concern within 30 days of receipt. Step two would be the appeal to the superintendent. If the parent is not satisfied with the resolution at the building, the parent may appeal to the superintendent. The superintendent will review the matter and issue a decision. Step three, appeal to the board of education. If the superintendent's decision is appealed, the board will review the superintendent or designates decision and if the board determines it necessary may hold a hearing and then either affirm the decision or determine a new resolution. So nothing in this process prevents a parent from contacting a board member regarding a concern.
078However, as best practice, if a board member becomes aware of a concern, it is recommended the board member notify the superintendent so the administration has an opportunity to address the matter through established process before it was brought before the board level action. So, I imagine we will have something uh sent to the uh to the school or to the staff so everyone's on track. I just want to let people know uh that that is what is currently uh uh being worked on. Well, I think that the one of the important things is that we don't need a flag policy, >> right? >> Because >> we're just following HBA, >> those Ohio parents bill of rights. It covers a lot. >> Thank you. >> So, and that allows the teachers to be able to decorate with
079whatever seasons and that sort of thing. So, it doesn't take that away from them. >> Excellent. All right. So, the next board meeting is Wednesday, February 25th at 6 PM. Uh, now we're going to open up uh comments to non-aggenda items. Uh, and I'm going to ask for your name and read your address uh into the record. Uh, first person is Gina Baldwin. I'm Jenna Baldwin, 983 Tinddale Court. The actions of the board of education greatly impact the teachers and administrators that we attract and we retain. This in turn affects the health of our schools, which in turn affects the health of our community. I have several concerns for the future of our school district and the actions of this board. I'm extremely concerned that after hearing all the comments you heard today that you
080chose to not take any of the advice people gave you, which was to get multiple to send things out for bid. Firstly, you know, we talked about the transparent fiscal responsibility. Mrs. B, Miss Bullock and Mr. Smith, you ran on that as as a platform. However, I'm not seeing that. If you really if you believe that, you would adamantly oppose moving on issues without proper notification. S sufficient public discussion as required by the Sunshine Laws. Multiple bids and proposals for fiscal expenditures. During the January 6th board meeting, two agenda items were added in what felt like a very underhanded way. There was no valid reason that the motions to remove Bobby Grace from Warren County Career Center nor replace the district legal council were not presented on the agenda ahead of the meeting. There was
081no emergency or misconduct that was prompting it. So there was no need to move in haste and secrecy. Certainly there was no valid reason to make these changes without hearing from those affected before the change was made. With respect specifically to the law director appointment, I'm shocked. I truly am shocked by the lack of fiscal and practical responsibility taken. simply wanting a change is no reason to proceed without competitive bids, competitive proposals with a lastminute ad that also indicated no reference checks or background checks. Most appallingly, there was no true discussion on the candidate being considered. There was no discussion about his qualifications or his reasons. The gentleman who was appointed for Warren County Career Center came here. He talked. He did a wonderful job. Even though I didn't like that it was last minute,
082I felt very confident about him. Not about the lawyer. He had he big walnut school board took competitive bids and chose not to take him partly because of his exorbitant bills over 20,000 a month charged to another district and partly based on him having time for limited consultation services because of his many other time commitments. I'm con concerned about what kind of contract you committed to, what due diligence you've done to ensure and what references you have. In my opinion, we can and should expect more from our schoolboard members. The schoolboard bylaws indicate that members should devote sufficient time, thought, and study to proposed actions. They should listen carefully and with courtesy with when others have the floor. Furthermore, bylaws specify that board members should vote based on facts and independent judgment and refrain from
083surrening judgment to particular individuals or groups. Unfortunately, these expectations were not met during the January 6th meeting. I didn't feel that they were met in all areas here either and I pray and hope that in future meetings will be different. It is crucial for the district school district the future of our district that personal and political priorities do not trump our district health. >> Thank you. Uh [clears throat and applause] Courtney McKeon. >> Courtney McKeen. My address is 3190 Yellowtale. [clears throat] Today I'm speaking as a concerned parent. These are my opinions formed based on publicly available information. I've recently found language on an organization's website that I personally find disturbing. I have personally been present at a board meeting where members of this organization have been present and have heard with my own ears
084members of this organization offer training to the board. Beyond those meetings, I do not know the extent of their interaction with the board or community, but from what I am aware of, I am deeply concerned. I want to read a paragraph published on the National School Board Leadership Council's own website as of January 15, 2026 so the public can judge for themselves. The section of their vision is um page is titled learning disabled, mentally handicapped, and special needs. The text reads, "Students who are learning learning challenged can consume a lot of a teacher's time and resources. This means less time for students that are not learning challenged." This fact, this is their words, this fact provides less than ideal outcomes for both the learning challenged and those who are not learning challenged. By providing specialty
085teachers and exclusive classes in schools for learning challenged, we open up a path to success for both groups. This is language posted directly on this organization's website. In my view, this language treats children as with disabilities as a burden and advocates separation of children into separate classrooms and even separate buildings. These ideas, if ever adopted as district policy, could conflict with students rights under IDEIDA and FAPE and undermine inclusion in this district. Reading this as a parent, in my opinion, and an organization like this and any organization that promotes these ideas, sorry, I'm very upset. Um, I believe that it promotes a discriminatory mindset towards students with disabilities and special needs. And as a parent, I would not want any organization expressing these ideas to have an opportunity to influence our district. I am asking
086that the board publicly clarify whether to the board's knowledge if it has ever in the past, present, had any communications, training, partnership, or support from NSBLC or any of its affiliated entities or consultants representing them or any entities endorsed by them. Additionally, I urge the board to publicly reject these ideas to reaffirm that the board has the best interest of all of our students in mind. And I ask that the board publicly commit that the district will not associate with organizations or businesses that promote the isolation of students with disabilities or learning challenges. All of our students add brightness to our school and deserve to be included without concerns of outside influence such as these that could suppress their rights. Thank you. [applause] Cara Fisher. >> I pass. >> All right, Julie Perlman. >> All
087right. All right. Uh, tomorrow we're on a 90m minute delay. >> 90 minute delay >> as of now. >> Booing right now. >> As of now. So, So anyway, that being said, we'll make go ahead and make a motion to dismiss. >> I'll move >> second. >> Mrs. Horvath? >> Yes. >> Mr. Sbert? >> Yes. >> Mrs. Bolock? >> Yes. >> Mr. Wallace? >> Yes. >> Mr. Smith? >> Yes. >> Hey, Terry. >> Do you keep these for record? >> Yes, I do. >> All right. Do I need to sign anything? No,y's been out.