001I'm gonna do this because we're having good. Okay. >> Good evening everyone. You can silence your phones. >> [laughter] >> Sorry. Just joking. Uh if we could start with a moment of silent prayer, please. >> Thank you. Please stand for the pledge. >> [snorts] >> To the flag of the United States of America and to the republic for it stands. One nation under God, indivisible with liberty and justice for all. >> Call please. >> Mr. Swagger >> here. >> Mrs. Davis >> here. >> Mr. Benton >> here. >> Mrs. Ber >> here. >> Mrs. Thomas here. >> Thomas >> here. whomever >> reading the news. >> This is a public meeting of the board of education for the purpose of conducting the school district's business and is not to be considered a public community meeting.
002There's time in for public participation during the meeting as indicated in the agenda. Each statement made by a participant shall be limited to three minutes. Upon request of the superintendent, the district shall make reasonable accommodation for a person with a disability to be able to participate in [cough and clears throat] this activity. This meeting replaces a previously announced December 8th, 2025 board of education regular session meeting. Recording is made of each meeting of the board as administrative aid and shall be preserved as public documents of the board. >> Thank you. [clears throat] >> Any additions or deletions to the agenda? >> I have two changes to the agenda. If you look under my section resolutions 25, there's resolution 25-12-248 and resolution 25-12-249. Both are guaranteed maximum price amendments for our building projects. And um you
003know that our timelines were very uh tight or or close on these um projects, the bidding process and it's very intricate. So, we didn't get the final numbers in until this afternoon. So, there's a presentation we'll go through tonight and I'll need some interaction with the board. But, at some point, what I'll be looking for is to read a not to exceed amount for each of those resolutions and we'll go through a process on that. So, that'll be I'll need to add that to those resolutions. >> Thank you. Any other additional resolutions? >> No, nothing else. >> Make it a motion to adopt. >> So, move. Any comments, questions? Call the role, please. >> Mr. Benton? >> Yes. >> Mrs. Davis? >> Yes. >> Mrs. Brewer? >> Yes. >> Mr. Swagger? >> Yes. >> Mrs.
004Thomas? >> Yes. >> Thank you. >> Uh, any uh remarks by the public? Do we have anyone? >> Yeah, I don't know if people signed in. >> Anyone that wanted to address in a public comment, we'll make sure. Okay. Thank you. Moving on to presentations. >> So, our first presentation tonight will really be two parts. One is to review where we are with all our construction updates and you can look to the monitors and I have a paper copy for you and we're going to go through [clears throat] and u just look at these projects just to level set where we are and then also we have the bidding process we'll have to talk through and that'll take some more time. >> One of the items Oh, sorry. Sorry. I'll sit down. >> I know
005you don't want them to have to sit down. >> Sorry. >> Okay. Anyways, I think Tim interrupted, but anyways, um we want to do athletic recognition because students are more important in all this. So, we have um Aaron G is going to be here to make a presentation. So, you come up here and who we're honoring tonight. Awesome. Good evening. Um it's good to see all of you. Uh we had a very successful fall sports season um as a whole as a as a school district um both at the middle school and at the high school. Um but here tonight we're going to we're going to recognize two of our student athletes who who are state qualifiers for for cross country, both boys and girls. And so they're gonna they're going to come up and
006talk about their season, talk about their accolades, their accomplishments. have a few have a few moments to to share those items with you. And this is uh this is Cam Bever and Ella Ke. I want to thank you guys for recognizing Cameron and me tonight. Uh this season was a great one for our whole team. Everybody worked hard, pushed each other at practice, and kept improving as the season went on. We supported each other at all the meets and celebrated each other's successes. We created a really fun and positive season, so it helped me grow. I was so I was honestly really surprised, but I was super excited when I made it to the state. I wanted to thank my coaches for supporting me and allowing me to do both cross country and soccer. They
007pushed me to work hard and improve. Um, I want to thank my teammates for always cheering me on at the meets and pushing me at the practices. And to my parents for driving me to the practices, coming to all my meets, and just supporting me the whole way. Thank you again to the school board for recognizing this. It really means a lot to me. >> Thank you. >> Congratulations. [applause] >> Um, first of all, I would like to thank the board for allowing us to be recognized here in this very special opportunity for us. We're very proud about our accomplishments. So, thank you guys for allowing us to be recognized and giving us this opportunity. Second off, I want to thank my parents and my coaches for continuing to push me um throughout the season,
008throughout my career. I've been running for six years, so it's been quite the journey. [snorts] Um so, I would definitely like to thank them. I I couldn't do it without them. Um it's been a long journey. It's been been fun, but I'm very proud of my accomplishments this year. I won three meets overall. I won the Heath meet, I won our home meet, and then I won the LCL meet. So, I was proud about that. And then our team uh had some great accomplishments, too. We went to the district meet and I think we played sixth overall in the district. So, we were very proud about that. Very proud of my teammates to be able to run through those tough races. Um and then I went to after the district meeting, I went to regionals
009and play 16th there and qualified for the state meet for the second time. So, very proud about my accomplishments. But, [snorts] >> um overall, thank you guys for allowing us to recognized and given us this opportunity. We really appreciate it. [applause] >> This little piece. Good evening, members of our board, administrators, and community. Thank you for taking the time to recognize two of our cross country athletes who qualified for and competed at the state cross country meet. It's an accomplishment that represents the very highest level of an achievement in our sport. Cross country is not glamorous. It's early mornings, long miles, tough weather, and a lot of quiet discipline when no one is watching. To reach the state meet requires not only talent, but consistency, resilience, and a willingness to push through discomfort day after
010day. These two athletes have done exactly that. They represent our school with humility, work ethic, and determination. And they set the standard for what it means to be student athletes. We are incredibly proud of them and grateful for the way they represent our program and our school. Coaching them is a joy. They both possess the skills and mindset it takes to be successful in their athletic realm and and in life. Please join me in congratulating Cameron and Ella on an outstanding season and this well-deserved achievement. Coach Dyer and coach [applause] it is an honor for these guys. They appreciate it. They were excited when I made the calls and said, "Hey, you're going to be recognized. Did I hear you right?" And uh it's hard to get to the state meet and uh takes a
011lot of work, a lot of effort. Uh the miles from from the sun nice days to those cold windy days. Uh I got to be say we're all proud of them and we look forward to more. Cameron's going to move on. Ella is a freshman. She accomplished some really big things. That record that was set, the school record by Cameron will last for a while, but we're hoping that gets broken. Just not too soon. Thank you. >> [applause] >> questions. You don't get to go that quick. I got questions. I got questions. >> I got questions. What are your PRs? >> Mine's 1945. >> 1945. Excellent. >> That's great. >> My 156. >> 1556. Wow. Okay. Congratulations. I'm just curious because I don't know what, you know, timewise. >> And I'm amazed. my daughter cross
012country. She was not a cross country runner. She was number six on the team, right? You know, to run, right? So, so but you have to have the right number of people, but cross country has a lot of uh I don't know. It's it's painful. >> You have to really be dedicated. It's not a glamorous sport, but it really shows the character of people that run cross country. And that character is going to carry you through life, and you're going to accomplish great things because cross country runner means that you're really committed and you're going to commit to other things in life and you're going to be highly successful. So, thank you for thank you coaches for making the program so successful. >> And not only are the students dedicated, the parents, if you go
013to the cross country meet, the parents have to run about a mile to catch you at [laughter] five different points. You know, they got like five, three, four, five different viewpoints that they can actually see. >> The challenge is that these these students are very quick. Your daughter was not so quick. [laughter] So, I had plenty of time. >> A little more time to get here. [laughter] >> Excellent. Well, congratulations. Very well done. >> Thank you. Congratulations. >> Yeah. Come on. >> Yeah. >> Coaches. >> Yeah. Coaches, too. >> Have to scoot in. >> Yep. Scoot in. >> Sure. >> All right. You got to scoot down. Scoot down. >> You want me to sit? I don't know. >> You can move in. It doesn't matter. We can scoot in. >> Thanks. >> Hold on.
014>> Oh man. Parents, I don't know about you. >> Excellent. Thanks everybody. >> Well done. Congratulations. >> My daughter was like 26 minutes. >> I think 25 something. >> Oh, it's a >> Hey, um Amanda's asking me what's the distance that you run? Can you tell us what the distance is? >> 3.1 [laughter] minute. >> Yes. >> What? It's a fiveminute mile. >> That's amazing. I'm telling you that it is amazing. All right, >> I'll watch for you. >> You just saw me run up to something and come back. [laughter] >> I'll look quick. >> Well done. >> All right. Well, thanks again. >> Now, moving on to less Well, no, I won't say less exciting. This construction stuff is pretty exciting. >> The students are more important. Yeah, that's right. Okay. So, sorry I
015jumped ahead there. Um so what we want to do tonight is uh we want to go through our construction projects and just kind of level set where uh we are with all those projects and then we want to talk about our guarantee maximum price amendments and those are those two resolutions I mentioned. I have Jeremy Johnson there from Robertson construction. So he will be helping at some point. Um you have a PowerPoint in front of you and then also it's on the screen as well too. >> [clears throat] >> The first slide on there is just showing the west campus. So this is what we refer to as with the baseball and softball areas are so you get some ideas about where the you know how the concession stand looks, how it's been placed there.
016You know there's been a lot of work on that. So you can see that uh that rendering there. And if you go to the next slide, it's more of a surface look on it and you can see that, you know, where restrooms have access. And as a reminder, this would be accessible to the baseball. There's a walkway to the softball and then also it can be accessible on the other side for the band. So, you know, it'll be the band concessions on that side as well, too. So, a dual purpose. Okay. And if we had really big events, you can use all sides of the building if you needed to. So, again, just going through this quickly as a level set. if there's any questions. Um the next slide on our deck here is the
017baseball sub drainage and as a reminder that project is done and all of the outfield drainage has been completed and some of the infield around the lines there around the edge lines. We did not go into the infield though because we didn't want to disrupt that. There wouldn't be time. Um so that part of the project is done. There'll be more that you'll see later on that comes up as a discussion about where the project is but that part of it is is done at this point. You go to the next slide you can see some aspects of the larger project. So [clears throat] this is having a dugout wall moving that back and then we have part of the base bid a new visitors dugout which is in a very poor state of repair
018and then potentially a new home dugout. So that is an alternate based on where we were with pricing and all too. Let me know if there's any questions because and just go through some of this quickly. Um, if you look at this is a look from the concession stands down or the new concession stand um down topically on our site there. And you can see where it would be placed, the new concessions. And then there is actually a walkway. It's light brown for part of it because it'll be a decking material. Then it goes to an asphalt and it goes all the way to softball. So now there'll be a walkway for softball to come in and use the restrooms as well as have access to the concessions and then also obviously for baseball. And
019then you can see the accessible side there, the gate that's been organized and the walkway. So if you're coming in from the visitor side of the stadium, how that area would be serviced and used. um on the uh brown area there which is the walkway again there's a couple bump there's a big bump out there you can see as we were working on that we thought that would be a nice opportunity there was some ideas there about bringing that area out so there could be an observation area you could actually have a good area for to observe the baseball also it's ADA compliant so someone had challenges walking and they couldn't get down they couldn't amulate down to the baseball they could be observing from that upper deck Any questions? Okay, moving to the north
020campus. This is a rendering of the concession stand there. Uh I know you've seen this before. Again, it's the level set with this. The rendering with the um concession there is very similar size building as what you would see on the north campus for the baseball, softball, and the band. So, that's one look at it. Um there's the look, the next page is the look from the stadium side. So you can see there's some bleachers there. Um this facility can be expanded if we grow over time and uh even concessions or I'm sorry, the um bleachers can be added on to if we needed to. If you go to the next slide, you'll see this is an overview of what the north campus would look like. So in the large green area, the lime green
021there, you'll see that is the new turf field that will go in. Tonight when we talk, there's the base bid, which is the soccer size regulation turf. But then we also have an alternate that would extend the length of the turf field. And that would allow for softball, I'm sorry, for football to play down there. and also could be softball, baseball, and off off season, but it's really more for if we can expand football and keep our football program down there. Um, other parts that you can see if you go to just the right of the turf field, you can see the concession stand, which looks kind of small there. You also see some parking that we've added um in that area, and it's in between the softball and baseball. So, we'll talk about some
022parts of that because there's some aspects that are part of the base bid and some that are alternates. Any questions about you look at the next slide and um it shows you what the turf field could look like. This is the shorter field. We would extend it if the alternate is approved. The logo was just one dropped on there. That's one of our logos from the brand locker. We could drop other ones on there, but that was just something to show what it looks like and you get an idea about how the fencing looks, uh, the concession stands and some gates and all. As a reminder, we do not have an either the base or the alternate any permanent lighting in this, although it'll be wired and prepared for that. So, we'll make sure we
023have all the electrical. That part of the project is very costly. Depends on when we're working on that the cost, but somewhere in the in the range of about threequarters of a million dollars. So the idea would be to get that ready for future use. Possibly there's some sponsorship or some other monies that would come in. In the meantime, if we wanted to use that in the evening hours, we could look at renting portable lights and that would be make it sufficient. If you go to the next slide, any questions about that? Sorry, go through this quick, but just Okay. Um, next slide is now you're looking at the back of the this building actually. And as a reminder, we have a more rectangular room that's for baseball and softball. Um indoor batting primarily could
024be some golf eventually. And then the other room that we have is more square in shape and that's for wrestling and cheerleading. So we would have dedicated spaces now for all those sports. And that part of the project is coming together nicely. If you notice a little smell in this room here, it's because some of the paint they use is etching and and it uh was able to cover up um some of the existing that you'll see in the like if there's rust smell too. It's more of an etching based paint so it's you can smell a little bit but those two parts of the project are coming along um nicely and it's very impressive to see. Um we only gave you one slide on this but actually there's restrooms that we had to rebuild
025in there because they hadn't been in service for many years. One of the restrooms now is ADA compliant so it would be accessible for both um both sides of the building back there for all the sports. And then also we have a janitor's closet with water and small slots sink and a storage area. So that way wrestling for example can now actually clean their mats as you know don't have that available down at the goa barn. So we want to that'll be a significant upgrade >> that if you ever get a minute even after the meeting if you want to see it that it's pretty impressive back there. It's really changes almost like daily. Um the next slide is the multi-purpose building and you know we have the sign out front and it would actually
026go just right next to this building here. Um we'll talk about that a little bit tonight. That that model is fairly matured but we do have some discussions that need to occur regarding base bit and alternates primarily if we want to add couplas on there. We have a design for that. There's also gables reverse gables that can go on the building. So, we have some modeling of that and some costs we want to talk about, but that building or this part of the project for the multi-purpose professional development is really coming together. We'll go through that. And then the last one is just a reminder about the high school edition. Everything's going well there. We're closing up that project and uh really there's not a whole lot to report there because that one opened on
027time in August for new school year and we're using that including that's where one of our new CEK programs is housed especially the you know, first step that we had in biomed with the um certified nursing assistant program. So, and that one we don't really talk about there that we're just um finishing up all the building on that and there'll be a little bit of extra um monies that we'll have that we can look at repurposing if we need to into other projects. And that's just an overview. Are there any questions about >> summary? >> Yes. >> Okay. >> So, next we want to um talk about guaranteed maximum prices and there is a handout that >> this one won't translate to broadcasting so well to work off a paper copy because >> I got
028one for you. So there's two parts of this that we want to talk about and this gets to the resolutions that I said might need to be changed tonight. So we have a guarantee maximum price or GMP sorry uh guaranteed maximum price or [clears throat] GMP. The first one is number four and that'll be for the multi-purpose building and that one that one sits by itself as a as a GMP. We have a separate design firm or architect with that one. The other one we want to talk about is GMP amendment two and that's for athletic projects. So we're going to talk separately about the north and the west campus projects but when they they'll aggregate into that guarantee maximum price then we'll put that together. >> So it's all going to be one price
029that we're going to put together but we're going to talk about them separately. >> Talk about separate there different design firms as well too. That's part of the reason why the GMPS are clustered like that. when we when we take care of the building, we always treat them as separate projects. Glitch tracks that. We do that with our design team. But when it comes to um um the architect and how it'll it'll meld together, but we'll keep them >> par so you can see how those fit together. So, what you have in front of you and and I give u Mr. Johnson a lot of credit for this on behalf of Robertson. So last week the bids closed and you know some of these projects are small by construction standards. So one of the things
030that Robertson did was try to package some of these because there might not be enough for a concrete or construction firm or let me see a cement firm to come out for one aspect but then they could package some of these so that they come out for multiple projects because Robertson is the construction manager for all these projects. we don't we don't separate the GMPS that way uh from a functional standpoint. So what you have in front of you if you look is on the bid summary um the first one you'll have the first table there and that's the multi-purpose and primarily we should focus on the center column and then the one to the right. The center column will be the base bid and then what we believe are alternates that are of interest
031to the board that have gone, you know, as we've gone through our work sessions and our other board meetings. Those are all things that have worked through the process. And then on the right column there, we have just some alternates that we think that the board may want to advance. All this is up for discussion. We just put in place there to have some some discussion there. So, we'll go through it. If you look at the top line there, which is high level. So, you can see um the amount at the most expensive that this would be is just the 4.5 million 4.6 million. One of the things that's represented here is this is is the most um this is the highest water mark it would be there. There's some economies that will come in.
032Um there could be some savings that'll come in for some different aspects of of this bidding process and the work. But right now we didn't want to come have to come back to the board if they make a decision say okay here it's $100,000 more. So whatever we look at there will be the highest amount. The next line that you see is the budget. So you can see for the multi-purpose building as it stands at base it's it's under budget. So we can talk about that. If you go to the next table, that's the north campus. Again, these two fit together, north and west, but we have them separated for this. So you can see that we have the same process here high level. This is the maximum budget that we um or the maximum
033cost that we project. And then we have the original budget. We also have alternates in that second column on this one because of especially because of work sessions and how much time we've done through committee work and you know this all comes together today but this is obviously hours and hours and of work and meetings and uh processing this we put in we included in the base bid the shock pad system. We used our same turf consultant that the industry has used for years and he recommends that shock pad because it's really good money for the future. It'll actually extend the life of the turf. So, we put that in because we heard that from the board that can be removed if we need to, but we put that in. The other thing that we
034put in as part we changed it from the base to include it is what was a alternative about extending the field. We really believe with the north campus it's good to make sure it's available for football as well. There's approximately approximately 30 feet that gets added and that's included in there. So you see that all in that price. There's other alternates in there that we did not did not advance forward on that right col right column. I think through the entire process with any of these we can look at this at a later date and if some budget savings come in we can say okay we did for example approve some pavement projects but if we secure some additional money through cost savings do we want to then add the pavement to it? And I
035think there will be a rolling process. Um the next section is the west campus. So that'll be the primary baseball, softball and the band concessions. Same process there. You have the highest level. So you can see we did everything what the possible cost would be. Never be more than that. And then what the budget is there. And then you can see the alternates. The two alternates that we thought be a priority from all of our work would be the home dugout and also uh the bump out that we talked about which is the observation area. Again that's also an ADA aspect. So people we didn't put some other things in there as part of the recommendation from our conversations but those can be added or subtracted we needed to. Um if you turn the page
036over all three projects are are aggregated on this page. So everything is in their same column. So you have your center about what's recommended and what the alternates are and then what we believe the priorities are from board conversations. Again any of this can be modified but if you wanted to see everything baked in because we have cost centers who are managing this and we also do it from the guarantee maximum price but at the end of the day people want to know how does this fit in with the overall budget and our campus. I will stop there and then we can go piece by piece. But is are there questions about >> process wise? >> Can you remind me at the west campus what the resident flooring was? I don't remember us talking about
037that. >> Yeah, it's a basically what you have in the basement is just a sealed concrete. You see most of the time the res can be a little more cleanable but I would say 90% of the places you would go in our league in central Ohio. >> Sure. >> Yeah. I just didn't remember that one specifically. >> Is it a smooth finish on the concrete? Like a semi smooth >> polished finish a finish with a sealer on it just like you have in your standard. >> It needs to be broomable. That's why he asked it. Okay. You can't keep those. >> No, you could mop it. You could sweep it. You could wax it if you wanted. Got to use the right wax or something. >> I was going to say, >> do we need
038that same type of flooring at the north campus for the conc? That's for outside, not I was thinking inside the concession. That's why my brain was not making the connection. So, never mind. That makes sense. >> Other questions about the alternates or >> Well, I was going to ask, can we just go a little bit slower? And I apologize on the north campus. Can we just go a little bit slower on that one so that I refresh my brain? what we're talking about with goalpost f footings. Um, so that's the we're going to put the footer in for the goalpost. Just not putting the goalpost in. We're going to put the placement in there. >> Well, yeah, >> I apologize. Alternate. >> What are we think? >> So, if you look at the columns, the
039left column, leftmost column is call it the base with no alternates. The that are I'll say included are the two referenced by Dr. which involve the so if you were to select the right or the left column you basically would select no the middle column is if you selected every okay so when you look at the totals at the bottom that's why you see the depth it goes from a you know under budget to over budget or how you want to look at it and then the rightmost column is we've just kind of picked a few of the ordinance in the center column that you prioritize in prior conversations You could have an infinite number of possibilities here. We could take anything out, put anything in. But right now, if you were to say, we'd
040like to go with the rightmost column. The foundations and the goal post aren't. That doesn't mean you can't add them over the course of construction down. That doesn't mean you can't add them tonight, but but basically the left column is nothing but the two alternates. The middle column is every alternate on the list and the right column is a handful alternates that we feel like we've heard you prior. And >> Jeremy on this real quick too. So let's say for example the board didn't select an alternate right now, but we're this project's progressing. you'll give us a deadline and say okay if you don't make a decision by April let's say for example then we would have the opportunity to say if we want to do like the foundation or the footings for that we
041could you know you need to let us know by April let's say if we have cost savings may say okay we have cost savings now we can take some of those monies and push it towards those footings that would be something >> yeah and then they'll tell us through the construction project where some of those timelines where the break where the go no-go is on that >> well and I guess this may be a dumb question but again the footings is that just placing the footing the footer there and then if we want to come back later but it's best to do that maybe now rather than come back. Okay. And uh the goalpost are we talking the are these the goalpost for football or is this the goal post for soccer or the goal
042post for lacrosse? >> Just the football >> football. Okay. I just want to be clear. >> No, this is good. I mean there's a lot of detail with this and and some of this has matured through the bidding process. There's there's if you think of this as a funnel, there's just rooms and reams of data bins and documented documents and we're trying to funnel it down into what we feel is a consumable thing. But there's no ask as many questions as you want. There's tons of information that's backing all this up. >> So when we talk about the shock pad system one and shock pad system two, we just need one shock pad system. Correct. And it's just we we've included one in there. And so I'm assuming our [snorts] our consultants recommends that. >>
043Okay. >> He's actually been really helpful. We use the same Yeah, we use the same consultant we have in the past. He's been really helpful to the >> the team. That's Milo. I just >> totally right. >> Yeah. No, it is Milo. And um we've actually had him with the design firm with the architects. >> He was extremely helpful when we redid the turf on the football. Well, he was, you know, >> for me, I hadn't worked with him much except for the maintenance aspect, but when we saw the failure of the, we were talking about the fading red >> um turf, he was the one that came forward and said, I think there's a warranty deal there. So, we end up working, >> Derek Boozenberg and I worked and he said, I think we
044can get this replaced um at no cost to the district because of the failed product and warranty. And he helped deliver that as I mean, it helped shepherd that entire process. Very, very good work there. Well, I have a global concern, right, on the projects. Ruthan's looking at me like I'm crazy, but because I'm worried about money, right? You know, money, right? Ruthanne, Ruthanne's worried about money, too, right? So, we're on the finance committee. >> So, the the challenge that you have is when you look at the total the total all the ultimates, you're you're 1.2 million. Okay? If you're just do the base bid, you're 267. So, we know that we have extra money that's left over on some of the other capital projects. Okay? I don't know exactly what that amount is, but
045I know we do have a few hundred,000 or several hundred,000 left over from other other capital projects that we've allocated money to. So, it doesn't concern me that we're 267,000 over. It does concern me if we go to 1.2 million over because I'm not sure if we have that money or not. Right. Quiet. So I was just going to >> give us a update of where we are at on those capital projects and what left you know what I mean what monies are coming back on those projects. So we have a >> and then that would be helpful right because you know I think we're somewhere in between. You we may the 862 might be okay but I don't think we have 1.2 million but but can tell you better. Right. >> So your instincts
046are exactly right. We do we do have the um financial ability to take care of the recommended and the high priority alternates within the current budget for the all these projects because of dollars that have shifted where funds have become available from one project um and I reworked all of those today just to check that and yeah >> well Felicia has all the answers I just have the question >> I think um the shock system should be a credit on the balance sheet, shouldn't it? If we're taking out the alternate turf system as a credit, shouldn't we be taking out the shock pad system too because we're only going to do one shock pad? >> Yeah, we would need >> I mean, wouldn't that be a credit on this balance sheet? >> Yeah. >> Not
047that I can find $100,000, but I can find 15. >> You're right. It's one or the other. >> Keep looking. Yeah, >> I guess for me the >> I mean if you're talking that this is a total here >> are we talking for the board is first or are the recommendations in the high priority alternates where we want to focus the first conversation of this and move or do we looking at old alternates the conversation not approve I'm saying the conversation we want to narrow it down to that column and start talking about that >> yes I do because I want to ask this we could do on the recommended and high priority at the We can do that without pushing the PAC monies forward to this to cover any shortfalls. I don't want to
048touch the PAC money because I still believe in my heart that whatever's behind there, the utilities need to be moved because the growth is going to take place behind the PAC, we will need to expand that area. So, if we don't do it now while we're playing with the ground, we we've made a mistake. So I would want to do it now and I don't want that money to come out of the >> I don't want to make up that money in these in these dollars >> and it may come from that is the problem right is is that because that's a big chunk of money right so if you're looking at >> but I think I think we should weigh that heavily do you really want to do that and what can we do
049in the high priority alder that's more valuable or as valuable as that would be to us that's where our considerations are >> you the overall budget there's about $500,000 of that called 900,000 that's from the PAC. So if you carve out the 900,000 there's about 400,000 right of the 900 Yeah there's about 400,900 that we can recover from other capital projects you put them together it aggregates at about 900. >> Does that include the interest and everything that we've earned? >> Does so we the set this money aside. We invested it separately and we'll have about 480,000 from interest earnings to put toward this. We also looked at some of the >> we also looked at um you know we haven't built a board office we and so we have design fees that we're recapturing
050and that's some of those monies as well too because originally we were building a separate board office instead we bought this building we did some changes there we also haven't put u >> a lot of money into the PAC We're finding more money. >> Yeah, we did. We haven't put a lot of money into the PC. We just did the seed study on that. So, we have design fees that can be recaptured from some of that work as well. >> So, so the other issue here is this is guaranteed maximum price, right? So, there's probably some additional cost savings along the way. Do you think, Jeremy, is there >> historically speaking, we have, but >> yeah, we we've been very judicious with things like contingency, you know, we typically have a little bit of savings.
051We I'll be we don't have a ton of allowances in this project like you would for a larger project because there's we have a couple allowances for soil particularly at the north campus and a little bit >> but the one thing you can be sure of unless something changes in the scope or there's something you're not pay >> that's a guaranteed max price now if you add something if we find a >> mastadon things, right? >> Okay, we were we had another potential cost. We're looking at the coupellas. We love them, but we think those could be added later or some time. Um, we don't know the the cost of each koopa. How important are those to us? As somebody who likes design, they're very important, but I how important they are relative to something
052else. So, I'm just putting conversation starter out there. >> Yeah. So, >> I don't want to give up anything. >> What I would say is what we would want to do, there's a small portion of that number >> that is structural roof framing that goes underneath to support the >> right. >> I think that would be something you would put in now. And then, I'll be kidding, they make every day that they just bring in and set >> like a weather vein. It's not really. Now, what I will say is these coupoopas have the structural frame and they have some lights in them. So, we might want to prep for so that at night if you ever put it on, you could shine a light up in there and you're not going back to the
053roof. >> But that's a very pragmatic approach if you want. >> I think we prep it. >> I think we do. >> How about the city? Would the city approve the building without do we have to go back to the city for >> So, the city we we showed the four renderings and they they >> got the Mercedes. I know they did. They went to the gables and the we asked them for a backup plan on that. And um Byron Manchester, our lead architect, looked at some options and we would still have the three Koopas. He has them there. He even has a rendering where he could have two smaller ones, the front and the back, the middle one larger. So there's options there for us. But they did like the back of those cables.
054So, we probably need to go back to the city and talk to them about that now. We did explain about the financials then. >> Well, I don't think it's their decision in the sense that they've already said that's their preference. It's our it's my preference, too, but I don't want to see the kids that want to be on the stage at PAC that we cannot put that many children on the students on the stage anymore either. So, there's a fire code. There are a lot of things we need to think about. So, I think we should think about putting that If it's desperately needed and we don't want to give up any other alternate, fine, but if not, let's try to push with the things that we know have a shelf life. So, I I
055think that's one of them. The Kulos are something we can manage. Now, maybe you can find something else on here. I'm still looking at some other things. >> I know we're trying to find money. Um, but my thought about the goal post footings is that would be something where that's the cost now, but should we have to do it later and have to, right? Like if the if it's already torn up and you can put stuff in, that could be the price now. But if we were to want to do it later and we have to tear stuff, does that mean there's not access to the field for a while? We're tearing it up. We're So my concern is like >> I like the idea of prepping things now, like you said, of like we
056may not put it in now, but do we prep for now? Because my worry is if we decide in a year or two we want to do that that it could cost more and it could leave us potentially with a part of the the field that we aren't able to use for a while. >> Well, and if it's already torn up, it's already torn up. >> They they would be taking heavy equipment over the turf and that >> we're already >> Yeah. >> I hate to have to tear it up after we've already made it beautiful. >> And they have to be on our side because that other side isn't ours. >> Yeah. And so my thought is it it is a smaller cost now, but I think later it could potentially be much higher,
057leave us with >> tearing up the really nice field that we've already made. So I mean obviously open to what everyone else thinks, but I think that that's one that we could really look back and go, we should have done it when we already had things torn apart. >> I think those are wise comments if you can find the right pathway. Yeah. >> My preference would be to move the remove the Koopa list for now from the cost move the post footing that's 7441 over to do it because as you said that brings us right around 700 which is coverable and that still leaves money for the PAC and then hopefully in the GMP and everything else and the interest that we'll earn in the meantime would be enough to keep that PAC set aside
058at the end of this. I think we'd be real close and we can honor all of that. I don't know if anyone else got any additional dollars because that brings that number to about 700 instead of the 862. >> What were you you were taking out the coupons? >> Yeah. And adding in that 7,44 just the footers. >> Oh, I thought you were saying take that out too. That's what Okay. >> Add that in. It's not in that >> I think you have to add that in as a because you only got one chance to do that underground stuff. That's right. >> Add that in, it brings it to around 700. And then >> yeah, >> that leaves about 200 in the PAC plus real close. >> Then you're going to take that 15,000 out
059because that's >> Well, we're not even in that item column though. I'm only adding the third column. >> I'm going down this one. >> I'm just saying we're just doing the third column, which it wasn't over here. I think we're doing all just in the third column. >> Yes. I'm just I'm picking up one more. >> Yeah. So, we're doing the third >> moving coupas, but >> it's only adding straight down. >> I see what you're saying. I'm looking at the wrong >> The thing that would be very helpful for me to understand But uh the thing that would be very helpful for me to understand is you know we have the capital accounts and to see a breakdown of those capital accounts and how much money is in each account so that we would
060really know what we would be giving up and where we're moving money to from where to to here to fund these things and and I think at the end of the day for me at least you know we're always we always try to be within budget right we always try to manage everything with the funds that we have available right so so this is another of the choices that we've always faced in the past, right? We can't do everything, right? But we can make a conscious decision on what we think has the most value for our for our residents, for our students. And if we could see where what we're going to be shifting money away from to fund these alternates and and to make this project these projects whole, I think that would help
061us as a as a board. So, if there's a way that we could generate that information and provide it to the board, please be voting on a GMP tonight. >> We're going to do I know, but can we but can we but can we add further alternates? Can we can we >> Well, that's what that's kind of >> Can we do like a base approval tonight and then as we have the money, can we add it? Can we see where we're going to take the money away and then add it back at a later meeting? That would be my suggestion. So that, >> you know, I'd hate for someone to make a decision tonight and then have a regret, right? because we don't know where that money is going to come from to fund this
062ultimately, right? So, so if we could approve like the base bid, we're only like 200 267,000 over, right? I know that that's easy to come up with that money. Okay. So, when when we're talking about coming up with eight or $900,000, that's a that's a that's going to be harder and we're going to have to make some harder choices to come up with that total amount of money. So I would prefer to at least I would personally like to know where that money would come from and I don't know if my fellow board members would like to know >> answered that because we have it in the projects currently. It's just coming out of the other capital >> but but again part of it was coming out of the PAC, right? >> Yeah. So there
063there's a >> Well, go ahead. There's about $900,000 that we can go ahead. >> Yes. >> Okay. So part of part of where we would recapture dollars is if you recall we originally were going to build a board office and we put money aside for that. We didn't spend that money on the board office. Instead we bought this building and then we used some of that money to also work on the athletics, you know, at the back of this building. But there's design fees that we did not pay the architect for a board office. So that's about $200,000. So that's I say about because it's actually a little bit more, but conservatively it's $200,000. >> Okay. So that's 200,000. Then what what's the >> And then on the PAC, in addition to the 500,000, we
064also had design fees on the PAC because remember we talked about utilities, moving walls, additions there. That's another $200,000 that we >> So the Pac was $700,000 total is what we have earmarked for that. >> Well, there were two parts of that. Originally, and I'm doing this from the top of my head, but originally we talked about excess of around three million, I think it was, because we talked about trying to move the walls and all too. Then we looked at a model of what about advanced seating and how could we reorganize things there and that was around 500. It was a little less, but we called it about 500,000. But if we were go back to the original part there there's construction costs and there's non-construction costs which a lot of that involve uh
065design with architects when we were looking to make I'll call it major renovations to the PAC moving walls utilities. It was design fees in I want to say it's like 246,000. I should be citing that exact but it's close in there. We said we could recapture 200,000 of that as well too. So that's 400,000 of the money. So 200 from the from the former board office and 200 from redesigning the PAC >> and it would still leave 500,000 in the PAC. >> Then we have 500,000 for the seats and and any kind of refurbishment. So that's your 900,000. Now there is some uh interest savings and some others in there too. >> So then it's $200,000 plus. >> Yes. That's your $900,000 at at a high global level. You know, I mean, we could ratchet
066down to the dollar, but that's >> not the way I understand. Just say we want to do all the high priorities 862. >> How much in interest did we earn? Did you say 400? >> 638. >> 438. And we got 200 in the school board >> design. >> That's 638 of the 862. If you remove the Koopas, we're at 700. We're now talking $62,000, >> okay, >> to do all the alternates >> except for the Koopas. >> And you still left the 500,000 for the >> PH and then we may have other savings or earnings. >> So that that'll I just want to make sure that I'd say that's what >> then you guys can come back and discuss Koopas when you try to have cost come in and seeing what's doable. >> You have
067any contingency left. >> Okay, that's fine. >> You're smiling already. This is not fun. >> But and and if if you tell us like if we can agree on what you want to fund tonight with what we talked about and then if there's other like secondary and we go through this process like >> yeah because we all we'll have to >> Well, that's kind of what I wanted to get to right now with the board. these recommended and high priority priority alternates. If we remove the >> Koopla, >> add in the 7441 for the >> post foundation. >> Yeah, >> that brings that to right around I mean 700,000. It's 705 I think 704180 or whatever it be, >> right? >> Because you're subtracting out 165852. You're adding in the 411 >> 7441 rather. So
068you're taking out 158,000 158 off of that 704. >> And in past projects, we have absolutely had a list alongside of our projects that said, "Gee, we'd like to have those, but unless we see our contingencies coming in, we won't be putting those back in the project." >> So it doesn't mean you just took them out and said, "No, that's why we don't want to start a process with the design review committee because I don't know that we won't do it. I would hope we would do it. They're beautiful. So >> the key to this is staying on top of the project though and knowing when the critical dates are Jeremy and you've been good at always like hey if you guys are really wanting to put those Koopas in I need a decision in
06930 days from now because we're going to be framing them in. We're going to be right >> now on that 704 I do realize we're going to have to >> build the the structure to hold the Koopa adding electrical. I know you're going to have to break that number out, but I'm going to assume that's in the 20 $30,000 range, not in the $165,000 range. >> So, let's say we do that. Let's do it as if we're going to do it because sometime we will do it. >> So, my question to the board then is we're at 704 and if you just say you add 30 and that's 734, right? And that covers the the preparation for Kubilas. Are we comfortable with that? >> I am, but I don't know about everyone else. >> Yeah,
070I'm comfortable. Yeah, I'm comfortable with that. >> Yeah. >> Are you guys understanding what we're talking about and are you comfortable with it? I mean, we've been around the block a little bit here. So, >> got that. >> Jeremy, are you understanding what we're talking about doing? >> Yeah. >> Okay. >> I'm going to sit down and put it in the computer. So, >> yeah, I was going to say I was going to ask if you can give me >> He'll need something to vote on. I get that. But >> if you can give me the actual number. So, it'll be pretty easy because it'll be that GMP4 will be the multi-purpose and that that'll be minus the 165 and change. whatever we have for construction cost. If you can give me an NTE on
071that and then on the uh really the GMP two will be easy because that'll just be >> adding it'll be adding 7441 to that. That one that one's easy math, right? >> It's all easy math as long as you add them up, right? [laughter] >> I'll double check it all. >> You got to get it the right way. >> Got to Yeah, you got you got 20 30 minutes to finish it. Yeah, no worries. >> Nowhere else to be. >> We good. >> Yeah. >> Yep. >> All right. >> Yep. If I could uh get a motion to go in the executive dis session for the discussion of consideration of the appointment, employment, dismissal, discipline, prom motion to motion or compensation of a public employee or official. >> So moved. Second. And before that, I'd
072like to invite the two future uh board members to the uh executive session as well. >> And we'll go over to the main city building. >> Yeah. Okay. >> I got a motion in a second. >> Yes. >> Call, please. >> Mrs. Ber, >> yes. >> Mrs. Thomas, >> yes. >> Mr. Swagger? >> Yes. >> Mrs. Davis? >> Yes. >> Mr. Benton? >> Yes. >> And we will be an executive at 608. Make Thank you. 70 7:07. We are we >> Oh no, we're out of executive session at 707. Craig, >> are we good? >> Back live. Microphones on. discussion. >> Okay. So, we just have a few committee reports tonight. So, we have finance. >> Yeah. >> Okay. We have finance u we want to review and then we all we have left is
073policy then too. >> Okay. I'm gonna make it really quick because I know there's a lot of people here and finance is an exciting topic. But anyway, [laughter] anyway, we looked at all our um uh capital projects. You know, we talked about some of them tonight. We talked about funding for the different capital projects. That's why we kind of knew that we had some money left over in some of the accounts that we talked about moving around earlier at the earlier portion of the board meeting. So, um we looked at the investment portfolio that we had and we alluded to that tonight, too, right? We earned an extra about $400,000 on interest because we're able to move some of our money into higher yielding uh still insured accounts, but we were able to negotiate the
074banks to get a higher yield than what they were previously giving us. So that gives us some extra money. And um we looked at also lading some of our funds. is where you have different expiration dates on some of the maturities for some of the financial holdings that you have. So, and then there was an audit that she just completed and we went over the audit and basically that's what we talked about in finance committee. >> All right. And then we have two policy meetings. >> These are very short. Um in November we did um uh most of our policies are related to safety and six of them were on the Neola ketchup list that we had to update and then we looked at five policies uh this last time um and they were including
075special special issues regarding transportation and we will be uh they'll be on the agenda for >> be met on November 13th. uh members in attend Stephanie Stoie, Laura Curts, Rene Britain, Annette Price, Robin Wagner, Abby Fitz, and Brad Weirman. They had one individual professional development plan that that required revision. So they went through we worked through they worked through that with one staff member. Then they also have to looked at approved professional development contact hours. They did that and then they also set their schedule and talked about the replacement uh system they have. There used to be a kiosk system to manage the system, but they have um what that replacement looked like and there's dates there, but I won't read all of them because there's quite there's quite a few. And then their next
076meeting is January 20th at noon. So then I will report back on the next LP LPDC meeting after January 20th. And that's all for LPDC. >> Go to the consent agenda. Consent agenda. We have resolution 25-12-244 is approval of consent agenda. Can I get a motion? So move >> and a second. >> I'll second >> discussion. >> Um you want me to go through these? Okay. Um so you know these are all clustered together. We have unpaid days for some staff. We don't give the reasons why, but that's in there. We're recommending approval there. Um certified building substitute because you know we've been trying to help cover some shortages. So that position is there. Uh supplemental employment. You heard from Melissa Dyer earlier today. This is um high school head track for her. Then we
077have some pupil activity employment that follows. You have three people there. One for eighth grade softball, middle school track, and then JV softball coach. Next we have volunteers. So we have all the volunteers listed there. Um their areas of responsibility on their schools. Uh board meeting minutes. We have two of those. We have one from November 10th and we have one from November 24th. And then we also have the financial report for the board for November and Felicia has that attached. And that's it for consent unless there's questions. Any questions, comments on consent? >> Call the RO, please. >> Mr. Benson, >> yes. >> Mrs. Davis, >> yes. >> Mrs. Buer, >> yes. >> Mrs. Thomas, >> yes. >> Mr. Swagger, >> yes. on to treasur. >> My computer's taking a minute to save. I
078can move forward. [snorts] Resolution 25-12245 would be to approved donations. >> Can we get a motion? >> So moved. >> Second. >> We have donations from the class of 1975 for our Washington DC scholarship fund in the amount of $1,200. from the trust of Daniel R. Dunn $10,000 and from um fundraising spearheaded by Amanda Nicely $1,955.74 um that represents the community effort to cover unpaid lunch and breakfast fees balances. >> Questions, comments? >> Just a very big thank you to all these people who work so hard to um uh monies for the lunches etc. and the donation for Washington DC trip and other monetary donations. So we don't take that lightly. Thank you. >> Yes sir. >> Any other questions, comments, >> Mrs. Ber? >> Yes. >> Mrs. Thomas, >> yes. >> Mr. Swagger, >>
079yes. >> Mrs. Davis, >> yes. >> Mr. Benson, >> yes. The second item on the treasur's recommendations is resolution 25-12-246 to approve the federal grant budgets. >> Can I get a motion? >> A motion >> and a second. >> A second. >> Any questions, comments on this? Well, just for clarification, I'll say um as part of our submission of entitlement grants, we submit budgets and they've just added a new assurance that the board approved these. The the use of the monies don't reflect any changes from recent past practice. >> Thank you. Any questions? Call the RO. >> Mrs. Thomas, >> yes. >> Mrs. Davis, >> yes. Mr. Swagger. >> Yes. >> Mr. Benton. >> Yes. >> Mrs. Ber. >> Yes. >> Back to you. >> Resolution 25-12-247 is volunteer. That's Amanda Davis and her information
080is listed there. >> Can I get a motion? >> I'll motion. >> A second. >> Second. >> Call the RO. >> Don't vote for yourself. >> Are we going to have a discussion about this? >> Yeah. I would like to have a discussion. You know, >> does she have a background check? >> Yeah, I'm that wouldn't be on the agenda. >> She's the policy chairman, so that makes it questionable, right? >> All righty. >> Call the role, please. >> Mrs. Thomas, >> yes. >> Mrs. Ber, >> yes. >> Mr. Benton, >> yes. >> Mrs. Davis, >> abstain. And Mr. Smoker? >> Yes. Resolution 25-12-248 is approval of guaranteed maximum price amendment number four with Robertson construction. I remind the board that um this is one of two resolutions I wanted to amend. So I'm going
081to amend number four as we talked about the beginning meeting accepted. So GMP amendment number four to the agreement with Robertson for the project and as as a reminder this is the multi-purpose project um is approved in an amount not to exceed 4,858,810,000 which is an increase from the previous project. So that again the number is and that um we will implement what the board talked about tonight and then Future board meetings will bring back other items that need to be considered. >> A motion. >> I'll make a motion. >> Second. I'll second >> discussion. >> Yeah. I want to be sure that we set aside the PAC money. >> That's the next >> one. Okay. >> I mean, not that we can't set it aside the first. Yeah. Just so we do. >> Yep.
082Any other questions, comments? We've talked about this a million times at this point. >> Call the role, please. >> Mrs. Davis, >> yes. >> M Mr. Benton, >> yes. >> Mrs. Ber, >> yes. >> Mrs. Thomas, >> yes. >> Mr. Swagger, >> yes. >> Resolution 25-12-249 is approval of GMP amendment number two with Robertson Construction. And again, this one is amended to read GMP amendment number two to the agreement with Robertson Construction for the project. As a reminder, this is for the west and north campus campuses. The project is approved in an amount not to exceed 5 million 63,86868. So that's 5603868 increasing the guaranteed maximum price for the project from the earlier amount. >> Can I get a motion? >> I'll make a second. >> A second. >> Any discussion on this one? >>
083The only thing I would I'd like to since we have a bigger audience is all the money that's being spent tonight for these projects. These are all monies that we saved over the years. We've not asked our population our tax base to contribute more to these fund these projects. So I just want to make sure that everybody understands that that we're not asking for more money. These are all things that we've done over the years to save actions that the board has taken over the many years to save these funds. So, it's millions of dollars. So, it seems like it's impossible that you can save that kind of money, >> but you can because we didn't. >> And I should have mentioned Mr. that um if the board approves this one like the previous resolution,
084we'll have the board president superintendent treasur working in conjunction conjunction with other ministers legal council for final negotiations on this. >> Any other questions? >> Call the role. >> Mr. Benton, >> yes. >> Mrs. Davis, >> yes. >> Mrs. Ber, >> yes. >> Mrs. Thomas, >> yes. >> Mr. Swagger, >> yes. Resolution 25-12-250 is approval of home instruction. It's for one student and the dates are identified there and we don't provide any additional information because it's specific to a student. >> Can I get a motion? >> Motion. >> Second. >> A second. >> Questions. Call the RO. >> Mrs. Thomas. >> Yes. >> Mrs. Davis? >> Yes. >> Mrs. Buer? >> Yes. >> Mr. Benton? >> Yes. >> Mr. Mr. Swagger? >> Yes. Resolution 25-12-251 is overnight field trip Ohio lead Leadership Institute and I
085want to talk about this when discussion is coming a motion. >> I'll make a motion. >> Did not meet some of the earlier criteria and is after the fact which I you know is not a good position for the board. So I do apologize that was an oversight by some staff. Um having said that um we have put some protections in place and this trip is expected in December 26 and the teacher responsible is now going to submit that no later than March of 2026. So we're well advanced and then the board will have the time it needs to review these things and consistent with our policies. Mr. Shiftton as building principal has been leading that effort. So I do apologize again and ask you to approve this. I did go through it thoroughly, but
086did not like this coming piece. So, >> will they also come back in early next year and do their recap of it? Like they >> Yeah, I can still have Yeah, I can still have the recap. >> We'll enjoy that recap, too. >> Yeah, we'll still do the recap. >> I might show up that night. You never know. >> Yeah, we like your country. >> I might. >> Give me a call. >> Any other questions, comments? Call the RO, please. >> Mrs. Davis, >> yes. >> Mr. Benton, >> yes. >> Mr. Swagger, >> yes. >> Mrs. [snorts] Thomas. >> Yes. Mrs. B. >> Yes. >> Resolution 25-12-252 is overnight field trip for the Big Red Band choir and girls basketball. And this is this one submitted well in advance and this is for December 2026
087and the dates are listed in the board agenda. >> Get a motion. >> I'll make a motion and a second. >> I'll second >> this one. There's been some questions from the board. So, I'm happy to answer any questions. Um I would tell you that there's a lot of work being put into this. Um we had originally expected this to come to the board a little probably even last month but as a reminder football team did well and we had a couple extra games there. So we ended up with uh you know having the band prepare for those extra games. So this is coming to you to you about a year in advance. Be happy to answer any questions about this resolution. >> I expressed my concern earlier today and a couple weeks ago when
088we had our athletics and extracurricular committee meeting. Um those concerns are still there. Happy to share them rest. That's what do >> Well, one of the things I I thought is I I have taken any questions like that and I'd like to recommend that we take this back to committee. If the board approves this tonight, which is my recommendation, then we would also then put a caveat under there that you take it back to committee and this can always be modified at a later date. I tell you at this date though because planning this is a big trip and it takes a lot. So that's a suggestion I have to the board >> and and we we definitely understand the big trip like this takes a long time to plan. Um but we also have
089in curriculum committee and other times we've talked about concerns about timing and this and the finances of of that. And so, um, we didn't feel like we had had enough time because we understand like they've got to make decisions on these things. They've booked things. Um, but it we do feel like we've been a little bit pressed to make a decision faster than we would have wanted to because if they're planning this out four years in advance, three years in advance, two years in advance, then we think that there's opportunities for us to have uh better conversations about expectations um for for field trips, especially long ones with large number of students. >> We're talking 240 students. We're taking them out of school during exam time, which if a parent tried to do that to
090go on a regular vacation, that would not be waved. Um, so that's a huge problem, conflict, breakfast, ethics, I don't know, something like that. And it's also at Christmas time and having all of my kids now graduated, I can tell you that enjoy all of your Christmas with your kids. >> Goes fast. >> So to take them at Christmas time and I apologize. Um, one of the things that we do want to if the board approves this time we take this to committee is we do want to talk about the exam schedule because I've had questions with multiple board or from multiple board members about that because the way it's organized now is they would have their normal exams on Monday and Tuesday but they would miss the rest of the week. There is a
091rationale for that and one of the things when we were looking into this to answer some of the questions is that because trying not to duplicate efforts and have the choir potentially go in a separate event from the basketball um the basketball schedule actually influences some of this and when the the overall trip would leave as well too. So there's some there there's a rationale for that but I'm happy to keep digging into those >> and we will we'll continue conversations in curriculum committee but I think moving forward that we certainly have some things that we'd like to sort of make sure is communicated as people are planning field trips that we have times that we think aren't as ideal. We understand that there are opportunities that come on certain days of the year and
092we certainly wouldn't want our young want our students to miss those but we also feel like there are times of the year that we feel like are better suited for trips etc. So, so we'll continue to kind of sift through that and maybe kind of, you know, uh prepare a little more guidance on what we think um timing and all of that stuff makes sense for for trips like this. >> When was the last time they went? Was that three or four years ago? >> 2022. So 2026 is when they're going so on a fouryear. >> Yeah. They typically have followed a four-year rotation. >> The reason I asked because eighth grade gets involved in this as well, right? >> Right. >> Yes. >> If they did last time, are they involved again? They're included.
093They were for the band. >> That's right. >> I don't think for the choir and I don't think for the Well, I don't basketball. >> Not for the basketball. >> No, definitely the band because they five years they cover theirs. >> That was part of the idea with the cycles as I've researched this is so that at least if you stay in band for five years, you get the opportunity to go on one of these long overnight trips like this. And I'm not sure I'm I would hope that the travel company mentioned this, but Disney changed their policy February of 2025. And no one under 14 and older can go through the park on their own, but 13 year olds cannot. They can go with a sibling, but they have to be with an adult
094otherwise. >> So we have we're taking kids that are that age, and that's going to be a problem because that's not what happened at the last So those things I think need to be discussed. >> I mean I think yeah >> I want to decline my vote tonight on this particular subject. Not that I'm for it or against it but I really think it belongs to the new board the new board in its entirety because you need to look at the whole picture. We talked about that earlier. You can't just take one extrapolate one issue out of an issue. There are many facets many tentacles to this issue. I think it would be who me to let you see that because it's going to happen in your term. It won't h it isn't happening tomorrow.
095So, I think you need to look at it and you need to make that decision. So, I'm not going to vote on it tonight, but it's not because I'm for or against it, but I just see a lot of tentacles. One is what she just said. The other is I don't know about the testing. I don't know about exams. I know how strict we've been with parents who wanted to take their kids uh away over or cut the um school days because they wanted to stay another day in Virginia Beach. So, the point is we've always had very strict rules. If we're not going to do that anymore, it's great, but we need to set that reset the policy, reset our expectations so everybody knows what that is. So, I I'm not going to vote
096for that reason. If it passes, it won't matter. If it doesn't pass, it's not going to be pivotal on my vote anyway. So, >> they have commitments they need to make prior to >> That's my understanding is they're trying to get some of those commitments in place. Like, for example, there some of the hotel costs have come in much greater than expected. So, they're trying to get that paired down. They want to make some commitments there. Um >> and the next board meeting is two weeks >> January 12th as it stands right now. >> Any other discussion? >> One of the things that has come up also through board questions to me has been about the financials and affordability for families. So there's some things that they're working on with their structure there and I
097haven't had a direct conversation with the booster. Um but I do know that they have provided support. So there's some things for families who may have some needs. I think that's being formalized and something more we could talk about in committee too because I know with financial challenges that's a concern to the board as well. So we're working on that. And I would just say we some of us feel a little bit rushed to make this decision because we we do understand that decisions have to be made, hotels have to be booked, but if this has been in the works for four years and we're seeing it a month before decisions have to be made, I'd love to be a part of the conversation earlier >> and we can even start talking about 2030 assuming
098that's going to be an expectation as well too. So if there's changes, we can start working on that well in advance. >> Do we have the academic calendar for 2030? Uh I thought we only went 28. >> So that's where we really got to start looking at the academic calendar prior to the planning because that's when the finals matter. Not to >> some of that I can project based on >> that's my number I mean that's really my only concern is that it's finals. >> Yeah. >> You know and and working around those >> hearing the parents side of this too. If you have more than one child and you're going to take out this block of time over Christmas and you're going to spend this much money, I think we should >> I I
099would like to see what the total cost is for the next three months for these kids because families are our food banks are empty and and people are cutting back. So, I'd like to hear from parents on this vote. I think >> we locally locally we're not even supporting restaurants here. They're leaving because people aren't eating out. They're eating at home or going to the food banks. And we also have a Wednesday night uh dinner being going on. I think this is a lot to put on our families. Um it was not inexpensive to go to Florida. Um as an individual it was 3500 as a parent to go. That was just myself. Um to fly down there, rent a car at the hotel. So, if you want to go with your family member to
100experience that or be close to them, that's a huge expense on top of uh whatever it's going to cost them 1,500. I realize there's some booster money they're going to be put onto that. But even at that, it wasn't enough money. They didn't have enough money. There was kids not eating while we were down there. um they didn't some kids didn't have money to buy souvenirs while other kids were. That's really tough. And it's really tough when you're down there and you find out that uh kids are not eating and you see two kids sharing a meal and that the gift cards didn't work that the travel agency gave. And when that was reported, nothing was done. So I have a a very hard time sending kids to four states away and nothing was done
101for them to ensure that they were eating or drinking because you have to pay for your water too. So when you give them a $20 gift card, which is what the travel agency is going to give a meal at Universal, which is not that much of a meal uh for boys, Let's be honest, they were starving. It's $16.99 or $1650. $16.99 with tax $3. That's put them over the $20. So, you had two kids sharing in order to get their meal or if the gift card didn't work and they couldn't get anything. >> I think there are just some things that would be good to have more dialogue and if we could hold it off till a few days, we're not saying it's a no. Just look at look it over and get input. How
102what are the prices? What are the feel like they can afford and how much money do we think we can raise? >> I I didn't want to say we're not holding off a few days because I'm not coming back. >> Back either they will. We also heard rumblings of this in the community in July. But we didn't hear about this until last month and in a committee meeting or was it October? >> Was it October, Tim? >> What when did we have the October? Let's just say October. >> Um one of the things I can tell you is around financials is they do have some ballpark in there. that it would be and you know this can change but I can tell you as it is right now about $80 per student per month so
103it be about 10 months so they're looking right now at about $800 for the student if family members want to come that's a separate cost but the out of pocket that's projected right now it's $800 that assumes booster donations negotiating some of these contracts are trying to work through the housing right now or the hotel cost because they think they can get that reduced house so that's that's exposure I think one of the things we have to talk about is the making sure we have allocation of money. Prices have gone up quite a bit too. So, we have to look at >> food budgets small too. >> I mentioned that as well was that the $20 voucher for food was not sufficient and I said if we need to increase the but whatever we need
104to do but um students should not be hungry on that trip >> because there's no one to back them up. I mean it's not like they're going to go home and there's going to be something to eat. they're going back to the hotel and the vending machines are even more expensive and they don't have any instrument for that. >> What percentage of our band actually attends due to the trip? >> Do we know? >> I thought that was >> it's co-curricular but it's not required is what I'm asking. Do they all >> they all go? >> They all I haven't seen recent but I know it's in the 90%. I think the people who who don't do not go is because they have a conflict scheduling wise. I've been told multiple sources that if there's
105a family with need that there's supplementation. I I do know that um some have provided support at the park, you know, like you're talking about. So those things and there are um other times where people pay for two. If it's $800 per student, here's a check for 1,600 and put it towards another family. So, as long as there's an effort and some um contribution, the gaps have been closed in the past and I've been assured that's what will happen in the future as well or this future trip. >> We just really like time to think through this and have opportunity to ask questions and get feedback and this is a it's a short turnaround. >> Thank you. >> I'm not offended. >> I told him tell him he can leave. Congratulations on your >> Thank
106you. >> You're off the Christmas list. >> All right. Well, we have a motion. We have a second. >> And we have a roll call. >> Mr. Benson, >> yes. >> Mrs. Davis, >> yes. >> Mrs. Ber, >> abstain. >> Mrs. Thomas, >> no. >> Mr. Swagger, >> yes. with the conditions that we've mentioned of meeting with committees and coming back [snorts] if they can't work any of those details out then you guys get to decide. >> Okay. I will make sure once we have board committees u >> once we have board committees established that won't occur till next month and this will be one of our highest priorities for I have a suggestion on board committ but this would go to curriculum >> and uh we'll have that in January so we can get
107on top of this. Okay. Okay. >> Okay. Resolution uh 25-12-253 is Senate Bill 210. >> Can I get a motion? >> I'll motion. >> We have a second. >> A second. >> This is a resolution for the nutrition standards policy that we have to do every year. It's requirement by Ohio. >> Questions, comments? >> Call the RO. >> Mrs. Thomas? >> Yes. >> Mrs. Davis? >> Yes. >> Mrs. Swagger? Yes, >> Mr. Benson. >> Yes, >> Mrs. Buller. >> Yes. >> Resolution 25-12-254 is creation of a pair professional position at Johntown Elementary School. >> I get a motion. >> A motion >> and a second. >> A second. >> I talked with the board on the side. There's some confidential matters with this. We don't typically add positions like this, but my recommendation is to
108approve it because there's some rationale that I provide. Questions, comments? Call the [snorts] RO. Mrs. Thomas, >> yes. >> Mrs. Davis, >> yes. >> Mr. Benton, >> yes. >> Mrs. Ber, >> yes. >> Mr. Swagger, >> yes. >> Resolution 25-12-255 is ski club. >> Sounds fun. Motion. >> Make the motion. Second. >> We have a student who's interested in Northridge has worked out offered to support. So, we would have at least one student participating. We're working that through our um athletics department. That's kind of >> where they go to ski. >> I don't know if it's probably Mad River or Snowshoe. >> I'm think Mad River. >> No. What's the one there in >> Snow? Snowsho. >> I'm guessing snow trail. Snowshoes in New York. >> No, snowshoes. No, it's actually it's in West Virginia.
109>> There. No, sorry. I meant to say snow trail. Sorry. >> Peek. No, peek and peek. I didn't. >> All right. >> Where we at on this? Have a vote. >> Ready to vote. >> Call the RO. >> Mrs. Davis, >> yes. >> Mrs. Thomas, >> yes. >> Mr. Swagger, >> yes. >> Mr. Benton, >> yes. >> Mrs. Ber, >> yes. >> Resolution 25-12-256, our second reading of revised policies. >> Motion. >> I'll make motion. >> I'll second it. >> We don't need to go through them. >> I mean, this has been a long process. Any questions, comments on these? Call the RO. >> Mrs. Davis, >> yes. >> Mr. Benton, >> yes. >> Mrs. Ber, >> yes. >> Mrs. Thomas, >> yes. Mr. Swagger, >> yes. >> Resolution 25-12-257 is first reading of revised
110policies. >> Motion. >> So move. >> Second. Questions, comments on these. >> Call the RO. >> Mrs. Davis. >> Yes. >> Mr. Benton? >> Yes. >> Mrs. Brewer? >> Yes. >> Mrs. Thomas? >> Yes. Mr. Swab? >> Yes. Resolution 25-12-258 first reading to resend policies. >> Motion motion. >> Seconded. >> Questions, comments. >> Call the RO. >> Mrs. Davis? >> Yes. >> Mr. Benson? >> Yes. >> Mrs. Brewer? >> Yes. >> Mrs. Thomas? >> Yes. >> Mr. Swagger? >> Yes. >> Resolution 25-12-259 is first reading of replacement policies. >> Motion. A >> motion. I'll second it. >> Questions, comments? Call the >> Mrs. Davis. >> Yes. >> Mr. Benton. >> Mr. Swagger. >> Yes. >> Mrs. Thomas. >> Yes. Mrs. Ber. >> Can I say no just to break up the monopoly? >> Well, you
111can. >> You can. Please. >> Yes. Go ahead. >> I approve. >> Resolution 25-12-260, first reading of new policies. >> Motion. >> I'll motion. >> I'll second it. Questions, comments? >> Call the RO. >> Mrs. Davis. >> Yes. >> Mr. Benton. >> Yes. >> Mrs. Ber. >> Yes. >> Mrs. Thomas. >> Yes. Mr. Swaffer. >> Yes. >> Resolution 25-12261 is setting a time and place for the 2026 organizational meeting of the board of education. I've talked with everyone who's involved in January 12th at this location at 5:00 pm would be the date and time of the meeting as proposed. Can I get a motion? >> I'll make the motion. >> And a second. >> A second. >> Questions, comments? Call the role. >> Mr. Benson? >> Yes. >> Mrs. Davis? >> Yes. >> Mrs. Ber?
112>> Yes. >> Mr. Swagger? >> Yes. >> Mrs. Thomas? >> Yes. >> The next couple resolutions. I'm going to read the um in resolution. Well, the first one is for the election of the president prompor for the organization. So, we need officers to run the meeting before we have elections. The first one is a procedural. So I don't need any there's no action on this. So what I need first is the board to nominate uh one or multiple uh people to be the president prom uh for the 2026 organizational meeting. Once I have that then we'll have resolutions to close nominations and then vote and then we follow that with vice president in case something happens with the president. So like to have first conversation with the board. Do we have any nominations for president
113prompor for the 26 organizational meeting of the board of education. >> I'd like to nominate Davis. >> Any other nominations? >> The nomination resolution. >> Resolution 25-12-262 is a resolution to close nomination of president proemporary for the 2026 organizational meeting. >> We get a motion. >> I'll make a second. >> Second. Sorry. >> Call the RO. >> Mr. Benton. >> Yes. >> Mrs. Thomas. Yes, >> Mrs. Ber. >> Yes, >> Mrs. Davis. >> Yes, >> Mr. Swagger. >> Yes, >> the next uh resolution is we want to elect them the president prompor. So, we just closed the nomination. So, the next resolution is 25-12-263 and this is to elect the president proemporary for the 2026 organizational meeting that is Amanda Davis. >> Motion to elect Amanda. >> I get a motion. Motion second. >> Question.
114Call the RO. >> Mr. Benton. >> Yes. >> Mrs. Thomas. >> Yes. >> Mrs. Ber. >> Yes. >> Mrs. Davis. >> Yes. >> Mr. Swagger. >> Yes. >> Now we move to the vice president. It's the same process. So the first aspect is I just need um nominations for the vice president proemporary for the organizational meeting. >> I'd like to nominate Thomas. >> Any other nominations? Resolution please. Resolution 25-12-264 is a closed nomination for vice president prompori for the 2026 organizational meeting of the board of education. I need a motion. >> I'll second call the rule. >> Mr. Benton, >> yes. >> Mrs. Davis, >> yes. >> Mrs. Ber, >> yes. >> Mrs. Thomas, >> yes. >> Mr. Swagger, >> yes. >> Resolution 25-12-265. This is the election of Vice President Proemporary for the 2026
115organizational meeting in Mrs. Thomas motion to I'll make the motion. >> I'll second. >> Call the RO fast. I don't have a mouse. >> Mr. Benton? >> Yes. >> Mrs. Davis? >> Yes. >> Mrs. Ber? >> Yes. >> Mr. Swagger? >> Yes. >> Mrs. Thomas? >> Yes. >> And then we go to comments. >> Can I switch the order tonight by design for comments? So, I'd like to kick off comments tonight. I'm gonna go a little bit more out of order. We have House Representative Kevin Miller here, and I know he has an airport pickup here soon, and we've gone a little longer. So, uh, Representative Miller, can you come to the lectern there and make your presentation, please? >> Thank you, Dr. Wagner. Thank you for having me here tonight, and it's honored to
116be here. One of the things I always say, um, one of the most enjoyable aspects of my to recognize folks for outstanding service and dedication to their communities. And that's exactly what I'm here to do tonight. So, if I may ask and Mr. >> Do. So when they come forward, um what I'll say is we those of us in in elected service know how important it is to have our family behind us because we know that they're with us. Uh they help us in campaigns and they come to events like my wife here tonight. So could I have you guys >> [applause] >> because we know they certainly can't do it without your love and support. So, what I brought with me tonight, and I'm not going to read them, but what I did is
117bring a couple commendations um from the House of Representatives. They're signed by myself and the Speaker of the House to congratulate you folks on your years of service. understanding Tim 12 years of service at the end of your term here which includes obviously the president of the board. So congratulations [applause] Congratulations. [applause] >> I want to thank you for coming. you showed up multiple times to a lot of events here and I do appreciate your support. >> Yes, thank you. >> We appreciate that. Thank you so much. >> Thank you. >> Um so we have some other things to talk about tonight. >> Very nice. >> Um I'm going to talk a little bit about Tim and Ruthanne. Um before I get there, I just want to hit a couple items as I have written
118down here. Reminder, we have winter break coming up. The board office will be open a few days. We got a schedule, you know, when it'll be open. I'll have the board office covered on the days it's open. So, we'll have that. Um, for the new for uh when we have the board for 2026, I'm going to been working on board committees. I'll be reaching out. I think as we've done work here with the seven of us, there might be some consolidation that can can occur with some of the other board committees. So, might go from reduced down to two and some consolidation. So, I'll work with um all of you and then our our incoming board members. We'll talk about board committees. We have some suggestions there and then as our next regular meeting was
119approved as the the 12. So um want to thank Tim Ruth and um you know it's it's funny because I wouldn't be here without them. It's it's interesting. It's uh I was next door and and uh you know happy with everything going on and get a phone call. in March of 22 and talked about joining the John Tro schools and you know you take a lot of seriously with it's not just a job you know it's a commitment you make we talk about a passion and you know serving others and did a lot of soulsearching talked to my wife and made the change and I'm really happy I did um you know it was interesting we had some meetings on the side [clears throat] I think that's perfume you're wearing is That's [laughter] >> maybe
120it's you. Maybe it's Colona. >> Hand san. >> That's what it is. That's what it is. >> Alan was nice enough to bring me Pel tonight. >> You're supposed to advertise that, right? Yeah. But it's, you know, it's been three and a half years, but it's been a good three and a half years. I remember when we talked, I said, "Are you really ready for changes? We won't change things that we don't need to, but we'll polish those." But you said yes. And you know, there's I could spend hours going on things and this really talks It speaks to the entire board, but when you look at things like I look back and this has been a reflective time for me and I look back on this and I think, wow, look at some of
121the things that have been accomplished. And you know, one thing that jumps out to me, Ruth, you talked to me and you said our insurance is in trouble. And if we don't fix this, we're going to have a financial problem, but it's also going to affect the support for the staff. We're not going to be able to retrain retain and attract staff if we don't have a good insurance plan. Um, It's kind of and you know this is just one example but it's it's one of many and think about this. So we start a transition process in May formally I start in August by November the election period we have brought on a new insurance consultant and we brought in a whole another option for the insurance. So we brought in a high deductible plan
122to sit next to the other. Now we look forward to and we did all that by January 1 of 2023 we stood that up. I mean that's record speed and it's just amazing. It was never reckless but it was so much time and effort that was put into that and that's just one example what this entire board does and the five of you really have supported. What's interesting and exciting as I can tell you two years later we look at what's happened that high deductible plan had a loss ratio. Anything below 100 is very positive certainly in the 90 range. to loss ratio through last month was 54%. Wow. Wow. So, those are the things, you know, all the work that's been done. Ruthanne, you've been uh uh tough at times to deal with, but
123always [laughter] always very very thorough. No, you you've been stuck. No, they didn't tell me to say that, but you know, always very thorough. And I I really want to tell you I consider you a friend through all this. You know, I I certainly when we were going through this insurance, it started off I got to know your husband well uh with his experience used him as a consultant. It was quite a pleasure to get to work with Chuck and and to get to know him and uh you know I really do consider you a friend. You're you're always fascinating for me too because you know we come up with the initial conversation but I remember it was earlier on in my career and she's like are we are we working on AI here? And
124I was like yeah we're working on artificial intelligence. It wasn't but the next week and she said what are we doing in AI? I said, "What are we doing?" It's only been a week. She goes, "I know, but you know, she talked to me recently about we were walking out one time. She said, "We're done with the board meeting. Let's talk about cryptocurrency." I said, "I don't know that much about cryptocurrency." So, she's giving me updates about that. So, that's good. So, I I really do appreciate it. You know, you've made such an impact. I've seen three and a half years, but I know the history backwards, too. And I don't want to, you know, take away from the other board members and what they want to say here, but I know there's been a
125lot of work done. So, I can speak my three and a half. Tim, you've also been a great thought partner through things. It's been tremendous work. Tim's funny. I'll give you a recent example of Tim. Um, I called him uh and I said, "Hey, there's a bus routing issue, a street issue we're looking at and uh want to talk to you about this and I had some ideas because he's got a background on this." So, 20 minutes later, he calls me back and I said, "Um, did you pocket dial me by mistake?" He goes, "No, I was thinking about this issue and I ran it through some software and the bus isn't going to be able to turn and this is and that's Tim Swagger. You know, I mean, here he is 20 minutes later
126and there he is, you know, just jumping in with us." So, really do appreciate, you know, those are just a couple examples, but I consider you a friend as well too and look forward to uh, you know, we'll have some other work on the side. We actually have some nice plaques for you, too. I want to be able to get to you. Everyone got involved with this. I'm supposed to tell you for your family. [laughter] >> So when you have family meetings, you're not allowed to use them. [laughter] >> Okay. So we want [laughter] to present this to you for 27 years on the board of education. All the work done. Thank you very much. >> And then Tim, we fixed yours just to silence, but we wanted you to have that really recognized. >>
127Do we just hold this when we want to come back and visit now? >> You can come back. No, no, you can come back anytime. And we're going to talk about some superintendent committees at some point, too, because there's some work Felicia and I are doing on foundations and Ruthanne, you and I have talked about development issues and foundations. So, >> it's a lifetime sporting event pass. I'll just walk in here. [laughter] >> Don't I get in free? There are probably some hooks you can put a chain on it just somewhere wear it around, right? And then Tim, we'll talk about some economic development issues because you know there's a lot going on in this community. So, >> um, okay. So, I'll stop there, but glad I could go on about it, but thank you
128both very much on behalf of all of us. And I think now I'm going to go to board comments, right? And there's some board members like to say something. I'm sorry. Go ahead. >> Oh, go ahead. Oh, did I interrupt? I thought you were looking at me. You were looking at >> I was looking at you, but I forgot this. >> Oh, Felicia, you want to speak next or do you mind? >> No, go ahead. >> Um, you know, we gathered tonight and with gratitude and admiration to honor the two of you for your years of service. You've left a lasting mark on our community. True leadership is not measured by the titles that you hold or the recognition that you get, but your commitment, your integrity, and your determination to make things better for
129the students. And that's exactly what you've done and you've exemplified for many years. You've both given time, energy, and heart to the board and to the families through challenges and successes alike. You've shown steady guidance to us, thoughtful decision making, and unwavering belief in the mission of the school. Your voices have helped shape the direction, and your actions have strengthened our financial foundation of the schools. But beyond meetings and motions, you brought something even more meaningful. A deep sense of care for our community. You've listened when it mattered. I think it's your perfume now. >> It's him. I don't wear perfume. Sorry. Maybe cologne. >> Amanda, [laughter] >> you've advoc advocated when it counted and always reminded us why the work's important. Your service has inspired trust. That's why we get things done quickly, collaboration,
130and a shared commitment in doing what's right. On behalf of, you know, staff and community members who've been touched by the work that you've done, we say thank you. Thank you for your dedication, your leadership, and your selfless service. Your legacy will continue to guide us and impact. Your impact will be felt for years to come. Do you want to say thank you? >> Thank you. >> And I have a little something for you and I'm going to spoil what it is. Um, >> oh my goodness. >> Spoil it. The boxes are getting bigger. [laughter] So, I've always had a favorite um quote and it just seemed like the right time to share it and that's what your that's a a picture with this quote on it from Theodore Roosevelt. It says about the man
131in the arena. It's not the critic who counts, not the man who points out how the strong man stumbles or where the doer of deeds could have done them better. The credit belongs to the man who is actually in the arena. whose face is marred by dust and sweat and blood, who strives valently, who hes who comes up short again and again because there is no effort without error or shortcoming. But who does actually strive to do the deeds. He who knows great enthusiasm, the great devotions, who spends himself in a worthy cause, who at best knows the end of the triumph of high achievement, and who at the worst, if he fails, fails while daring greatly. So this his place shall never be with those cold and timid souls who know neither victory or
132defeat. We thank you for joining us in the arena. >> [applause] >> I have a quote for you. >> Okay. >> From a movie that I've been waiting since we hired you. >> Bye, Felicia. [laughter] >> From the movie Friday. >> Okay. Board comments, Alan. >> Okay. Well, >> now you're up. >> I'm not going to do as good a job as as what we've heard from everyone else, right? You know, I'm not over prepared speech, but I'm going to miss both of you, right? We've been together with Anne for 13 years. Tim, it's been 12 years. And to look at the journey that we've made in that 12 and 13 year period to me is amazing. You look at the facilities that we have today. You know, you remember the way they were years
133ago, right? And my kids went through that. And then you look at the opportunities. Look at even busing. You know, Phil raised a question about busing. Remember we didn't used to have high school busing and then we were able to go ahead and negotiate with the busing contractor and get our prices down. where we could have high school busing again. Look at all all the decisions that we've made as a board to save money to to do the things that we talked about tonight, the the new projects that we're doing and and think about how we've provided support to our teachers to to to allow them to become a more effective uh you know, we don't we don't we don't teach students, but we provide support and the tools that they need in order to
134be successful. Think about the computers that we've gotten. I've been on the technology committee for the last 13 years, right? Think about where we were, where we had um computers without keys, where we didn't have we had carts of computers that didn't work. Now we have computers for every student. So, think about all the stuff that we've done for athletics. We had had our stadium burned down and then we turn around and we build an even better stadium than what we had before. Think about the journey that we've made in curriculum. Look at the look at the opportunities that our students have today that they didn't have when my kids went through the schools. So, I want to thank you and I want to thank your families for the commitment that you've made because no
135one understands the time that we've made uh to be on the school board. There's committee meetings. There's emails we get from Phil, multiple emails every day that we need to read [laughter] and okay. And we have all these activities that are going on all the time. And to be that committed to this school district and this community for 12 and 13 years and Ruth Anne's 27 years, but I've only known you for the 13, right? Is amazing to me. It's an amazing, you know, we it's amazing and and I want to thank you for my grandchildren. My grandchildren are going to attend school here, okay? And the things that you've been part of is going to be enjoyed by my grandchildren. And I can't thank you enough for your service >> and you're going to
136be sorely missed. And and I count both of you as my friends, too. And and use your present uh your hand sanitizer in good faith. >> Appreciate that. [laughter] So you won't laugh when you, >> you know, I didn't I didn't go all the way like these gifts, but I did give them some hand sanitizer today because of the clothes. >> I love this. I love this. >> So, thank you. >> I'm gonna go next while I'm calm. Um, we've been through so much. Ann and I joined the board in January of 2020. I was looking forward to uh field trips and art and then we got COVID. I was three months into being a board member when I said to my husband, "I don't think I can do this. This is really hard." And
137I know that the two of you watching your incredible leadership made me know that I could stay. Serving alongside you has been one of the greatest privileges of my time on the board. Um, your mentorship, wisdom, and steady guidance has shaped me more than I could ever tell either of you. Um, you have given countless hours, but you guys lead with heart. You lead with integrity. You do the hard things even when it's the right thing. And you have unwavering commitment to doing what is right for our community. The impact you've had will be made. The impact you've made will be felt for years to come. But I truly am deeply thankful for what you've taught me about leadership. And I hope that I continue to lead with the same care, courage, and dedication that
138you two show every step of the way. [laughter] >> Tim's act like it's a eulogy. You can see that they're all prepared and I do it on the cuff, right? >> Because I couldn't. I just couldn't. Well, I I had to write mine down because I get emotional. So, [clears throat] >> it's the perfume, don't we? >> It's the perfume. I know. I don't know if I'm gonna be able to say. So, um I wanted to recognize and celebrate the service of of two friends um that I've come to know on the board. Serving on a school board requires vision, patience, teamwork, and an unwavering commitment to students. And it means long meetings, difficult decisions, and countless hours of work that often happen quietly and without re recognition. Ruthan and Tim, you've embraced this responsibility
139with integrity, thoughtfulness, and [snorts] genuine care for our schools and our community. During their time on the board, you've consistently demonstrated a deep belief in public education and the power it has to shape lives. As Amanda said, Six years ago, I came on the board. You guys took us under your wing. Alan, you did the same thing and we've collaborated. We've had moments of disagreement or challenges, but we've all come back and circled and we all still talk to each other as we're leaving. Goodbye. Have a good night. Things like that. Um, your leadership is reflected in the respect, the collaboration, and the desire to always do what is right. on the policy and governance. Ruthanne, you've served 27 years. Tim, you've served 12. Bringing your heart to this role and you see that the
140new schools, just like Ellen said, the new schools, the dedication to bring the new um classes that we had from CEK, um the vision, you called me to him and said, "Hey, we could do this. If we don't do this, we're going to have kids not being able to go to the electric program. Again, one of your things that we've talked about is the curriculum is to expand our medical um we've got our CNA program over there now, too. So, this your legacy will continue. Um and your service has made a lasting impact. Your contributions will be felt long after your term has ended. Recently, I ran into some students, uh, former students at Johntown who are now nurses, and they are so excited about the great things that we're doing here, not just the
141CNA program, but everything that's going on. They said they'd like to come back and be a student here. I think that's a testament that things are going well and we're doing great things. So, um, I just want to I wrote some other stuff here, but I just want you to know that goodness having you guys here talking with you. But now we can have lunch. >> We can talk about a Red Sox. >> We can talk about anything. >> That's right. And I just want to thank you for everything. >> Thank you. >> Anything you want to say? >> I You know me, I'm never quiet. So, I do have something to say this evening. I want to recognize two board members that are here that were in my past. One was Jim D. If
142you could stand up. I think everybody knows you, but if they don't, they should. >> He's rehabbing a couple houses and marvelous job and I don't know what else he does besides being a wonderful teacher. I don't know but thank you Jimmy for being on the school board and you know what these people are talking about don't you? And the other one is Brent Founders who brought me this book and Brent is the book is dated 1995. So I have a lot of these books that are back history archival history for this school. I don't know who wants to have those. Raise your hand if you want to. I don't see any hands go up, but there are there's a lot of documentation. And so, if anybody's interested in our lives and what we were
143way back when, that would be fine for you to have and I would love to drop it off at your house. Um, there was an issue this year, this last year, that was very polarizing for our community and I do want to speak to it a minute because it's been heavy on my heart and that is the Lifewise program. I want you to know that when I was in school that few years ago, a couple years ago, I came from a rural community of about 500 people. So, we didn't have many kids in school. But what we had was every Tuesday, we had religion in school. So, I want you to know that when I grew up with my family, I had religion on Tuesday, on Wednesday, I'm sorry, Tuesday, Sunday, and Sunday night. So,
144my family covered up helped me be on the days I wasn't in those classes. I am not opposed to the Lifewise program. What I was trying to convey that we weren't allowed to say at that time and now that I'm almost off the board, I can say it. I won't say everything because I'll wait till it actually expires. But um the reasons that we that I felt I couldn't go forward with it at that time, we just came out of CO. We didn't we had some students who were struggling terribly with math and the curriculum uh pieces and I couldn't watch that continue to happen. The board decided to put in over $300,000 in curriculum and in tutors so we could bring our kids up to the standard we'd like to see them. That meant
145that if we let the kids leave the uh school building or any part of it, we were cutting short that time that we had to do important things to as a school district and as a public school. So for me, that was my vote. That was why I chose to do it. It wasn't about the hardest thing for me to have had to adjust to. I'm not an atheist. I'm not somebody who doesn't believe in God. And I'm not somebody who didn't have a Christian upbringing. And I understand the value of it. But at that point, I needed one more year to see if that $300,000 we put in to tutoring and curriculum was really going to help us with our with our uh curriculum, raise those test scores and help the students so they
146weren't struggling. That wasn't what happened. Somehow the story got lost or the emotions got lost in the issue. And that's too bad. I hope in the future that if you have an issue you want to bring to this board, you to be a good patient listener and when they tell you there are reasons for or against something, be sure you listen to both sides of the issue because I know you can rescue a lot of people and hurt a lot of people in here, put the right color shirts on them and make them seem effective, but that's not how government good government works. And maybe it is time that I leave because in my mind, I never ran away from a fight. I've never taken a dime from this school district and I've always been
147dedicated and as you can see I'm passionate. So I'm sorry but it's it's an heavy night for me but if I can share those thoughts I mean them from the bottom of my heart. >> Your turn. >> Well for me it's more simple I think. Uh first I do want to thank my wife. For those that uh know my wife hardly anyone ever sees my wife. Uh my my beautiful wife Beth is out here today. She uh obviously does a lot of this stuff at the house and with our son while I'm at a lot of board meetings and and over the years, especially when we were doing the construction side, I was up here 3, four, five days a week and we were up here until 10 11 o'clock at night. So, uh for
148those that don't know, we have horses and we have a child and stuff and she would take care of all of that while I was up here making my $65 a month uh to be up here. So, I appreciate her for this is a passion. Anytime you're involved, this is public service. This is something that while you technically get paid, it's volunteerism. This is no different than being a football coach, basketball coach, any of those things. You're volunteering because you like like the community. You're in love with what they have here. You you want to see this succeed uh everyone succeed around here. So, you're on the school board, and I'd say the same to the new members coming on. If you're not committed to public service, then don't be on this board. This is
149public service. It's no different than anything else. If you're not up here to make this community better, you shouldn't be up here. Uh I enjoy that all of us and I everything I've talked to you guys about, you're up here for the right reasons. So I I wish you good luck in the future here, but you do understand that, you know, this is you give a lot of personal time up to do this and do it right. It's well worth it. Uh, one of the things I did notice, uh, and I I kind of I don't want to sound like I'm complaining, but we have a lack of volunteerism in this community. We have a lot of people that like to get online and complain. It's the same 20 people complaining about everything in this
150community. Ignore the online stuff when you come up here. And I mean that not to you. It's the same 20, 30 people that every time we open a restaurant, the food stinks. every time, you know, something gets built that's terrible. It's the same 30, 20, 30 people. They don't, they're never going to be happy. So, don't let that guide you. This community's got a lot of great people. But I reach out to the community and say, we need more volunteers everywhere. Even in the athletics, we get complaints. Oh, it's daddy ball. It's mommy ball because they coach. That's who's volunteering. That's why they're coaching. So, if you want that to change, be the person that goes and volunteers rather than complain about it. volunteer for something that's not directly affecting you and your kid. So,
151that's what I would leave out of this is when you see me step off this board, I'm still going to volunteer in this community. I'm going to go probably talk about getting officiating license. I've been looking into that because we're short on officials. We used to have baseball and basketball games where we had one basketball official, one umpire, because we can't get enough people to volunteer. Now, you get paid again, but again, those are those jobs where you're not really in it for the money. We need more volunteers. I see Mike any posting all the time. I need volunteers for the concessions. It's the same amount of people in this community that keep volunteering to do everything. We have a lot of new people in this community and I stress volunteer. I'm glad you two
152volunteer because that's what you're doing. You're newer to the community and you're volunteering. Get involved. I don't even have to agree with you. If you're volunteering and putting time and effort into it, at least you're doing something rather than sitting at home complaining on Facebook that this city needs this or that or this person should be doing this or that. Get involved. So, that's my message for everybody as far as board. I'm just going to move on to some other type of volunteerism in this community because I love the town. I want it to succeed. So, that's kind of where I'm at. Phil's being nice to me because he likes to get a free ride to the football games. Uh, [laughter] Right. >> I'm going to make him take me in the Tesla one day.
153One day he's going to drive that thing to one of the games and see me. Let me see how fast it goes. >> I'm going to >> Yeah, you went fast in that day. I heard about it. >> It was neckbreaking speed. >> It's been great working with [laughter] these folks up here. I mean, everyone up here, we get along. We disagree, but we get along at the end of the day. And that's what makes us successful. That's what makes this town successful. I encourage all other board members, council members that are here, mayor, this is how it works. If we don't all get along, we don't have to agree, but you got to be professional and get along and move forward. Quit complaining about everything and figure out a way to make things better.
154That's all you can do. If you're going to sit back and complain, you're the problem. You're not the solution. Become the solution. And I really say that to everyone else that's not involved. We see very few people at the schoolboard meetings. I take that as a great sign because they're not mad. You know, when you walk in and it's packed, you're in trouble. Something's going wrong. >> Either that or we better be honoring somebody. But at the same time, it'd be nice if people would come up and get involved and know what's actually going on. City council's the same way. You watch those meetings, same people show up, right? >> You want to get people involved in a positive way in this community. And I just implore everybody, if you want John'stown to remain Johnstown,
155get involved to make sure it remains John'stown. It's communitydriven. If you want other people to run this town, let them come in and run the town. But if you want that JYAA program to be successful, if you want our sports programs, our our arts, our band, if you want all that to be successful, volunteer, get involved. So, I I appreciate the the time I've had on the on uh the school board here. It's been fun. I mean, there's days you pull your head out. If you're up here to make friends, worst job in the world. You make more enemies than friends when you're in leadership position. Any leadership position, you have to recognize that. >> You're in the front. >> Yeah. And and I'm at the front. I mean, currently, you know, if you know
156me and my wife, we're not overly worried about what people think of us. We know we're grounded. We know we're grounded. We're not, you know, I mean, you can't be driven by your perception rather than making the right decision. Be the right person, do the right thing, and you'll be fine. I sleep well at night knowing that. And that's why I encourage everybody, just be upfront, be straightforward. We can all get a, you know, disagree, but if we're all coming from the right place, we're all going to make the town better. We're going to make the schools better. the whole community better. So, get involved. Other than that, >> sign up as a volunteer. >> Yeah. Well, we've got plenty of plenty of areas. >> And I mean, I really, we've just got so many
157needs in this community for volunteerism. >> This right off of here. >> I mean, the American Legion, I'm a member of the SA, the Sons of the American Legion. We're always looking for people to help out. Everyone wants to go over there and eat breakfast on Saturday, but we don't we're always struggling to find people to cook breakfast. You know what I mean? So, those are the types of things. We've got a lot of great community uh groups here, but they need volunteerism. You go to Eileene up here, you know, at the at the uh >> Agent Persist. >> Agents Persist. She's always looking for help. So, there's plenty of people doing good things in this community that need help. Get out and help them. >> So, >> okay. >> Thanks. >> I said I
158like the community. I've wanted to succeed. >> I know you do. >> We both do. didn't maybe speak too long. >> Yeah. Next we have we're going to move I put a second section of public comments. Um so there's some people like to speak. I'll start with Barnard. He has a presentation and then we'll it'll be open mic. So uh whomever else must speak. I know Councilman Bars here who wants to talk and Mr. Robertson's here. Um but uh I do want to say for the board as long as you agree um when we have these public comment sections I always read that Uh there's time for public participation and each statement shall be made by participants shall be limited to three minutes. I'd like to ask all of you if we can wave that
159for tonight because there's nothing impactful to the board agenda since we're almost done. So if that's agreeable to the board, we'll wave. >> Mayor Barhard, >> I have a complaint first. [laughter] >> I know you do, but we have to work on scheduling. >> Oh, the beard. >> I didn't see him for two weeks. I walked in tonight and I went, "Where'd you grow that?" I'm just blown away. Um, I could not second your comments more than what you guys said. Ruthanne, you're 100% right. When you're in the arena, there are critics out there. There are critics are going to say things that they have no clue about that they have opinions about, but until they sit in these chairs right here, they don't know how to make those decisions. So, thank you guys for
160what you did. Thank you for your leadership. If people remember back, it wasn't too many years ago that there was no relationship between the city and the school board. Matter of fact, there was lawsuits. I would like to say the fact that we have the relationship we have now is incredible. And it was thanks to all of you guys. um the fact that we have compensation agreements that we have companies coming in looking at land and moving to Johntown and we don't have to go through all this crazy stuff because we have the compensation agreements in place and that was thanks to you guys and the city council. That is wonderful leadership. Um Ruth Anne, the first time I ever talked to you, you called me about the miles estate. I had no idea who
161Ruth Dan was and she's she's basically yelling at me a phone about the miles of state and I'm trying to catch up like what's going on. Thank you for all you've done for me uh the advice conversations. Tim, people do not realize how hard that position is until you sit in and being a leader is not just running the meetings. It is keeping everyone together. and the fact that you guys have meetings and you vote yes. I know you guys don't all agree, but you put that public perception out there that you do and that's incredible and I thank all of you for that. So, I have two proclamations tonight, one for each of you. Uh I'm not going to read all of it, but I'm going to read summarize a couple things. And it
162says, "Whereas during your tenure, you guys have provided valuable knowledge of infrastructure, traffic control, and site planning to the challenge of building new schools along with thoughtful guidance on academic priorities, fiscal responsibility, and policies that ensure every student has access to a safe, supportive, and enriching learning environment. And you guys have both devoted countless hours to board meetings, community work, school events, and community conversations. con consistently bringing integrity, compassion, and a student first mindset to every decision. And finally, now therefore, be it proclaimed that the city of Johntown Council extends its deepest gratitude to both of you for your outstanding service and commitment to the students of this district, their families, and to the city of Johntown. >> So, thank you both. I brought my girls here to the school district two years ago. >>
163I couldn't be happier. So, thank you. >> Thank you. >> [applause] >> app. >> Thank you, sir. >> Um, and now it's anybody who wants to speak, if you can just come up and give us your name. Council bar, you want to be next. And anyone else wants to speak is certainly welcome to do so. Give us your name, please. Jeff Bar, current city council member, but also a byproduct of the um under Ruth Anne from 1975, which is when I entered kindergarten, okay, [laughter] and graduated in 1988. I just want to say thank you [laughter] because it's excellent educators. Miss is in the crowd, who was my ninth grade algebra teacher when I learned that I'm actually pretty smart and very good in math. So, thank you all for what you do, current, future,
164past, uh, all educators and leaders in our school district. The most important thing you do is the impact on our children and they go out and serve in the community. I see a couple people in the back that I know well. She's in public service as well. So our community, our school produces a lot of people that do well here in our in community and and outside of Jtown that I'm very proud of to be a res and a graduate here from Johntown. Thank you. >> Thank you [applause] Jim former member in community. Thanks to them. Um there like I mean people said echo what other people said before and I had a big laundry list of things I wanted to say that were procedural but I don't have to go there because um it
165be redundant but um when I was first on the board um it was it was like I was kind of in your boat where it was like co I don't know what I'm going to do. we were losing superintendent and people are putting on school board and in steps Ruth Anne first and she sits in the meeting kind of interview for the job and uh and it was kind of an easy job um to to choose her to be on the board. I remember walking out of there just a calm presence and I was like, "Are you always like this?" Like so sure, so everything. And little did I know that she had done this job for 20 years prior to coming back and saving us. And um and um so I'm more than thankful
166for um for that saving me as a young person and um and then Tim coming on the board too and together showing me what um what professionalism looked like because this board was not professional when I first got on here and um it was pretty sad state of affairs. but right at the ship and I mean if you look on what's going on over here on the boards behind you and drive around this community it's totally different than it was before and um and seeing that is confident in knowing that the direction is continuing uh despite the fact that you might not be there but I will say this um I didn't really not plan on being here um not tonight but not off stepping down from the board but when I did that became
167your nightmare um which was my reprieve uh co happened and I said, "Wow, this is not a ship that I'd like to be uh steering right now." Um, but I was confident in the leadership that was already here um in just the right state of mind. I know that Tim mentioned it earlier that there's a lot of decisions that are made and Ruthanne did too. And uh not knowing why those decisions are made can have a lot of people be uh thumb warriors or whatever online, but um we did something similar where we had to cut busing. we were busing two kids to Newark and we were making our own kids walk and uh so that was a that was a wasn't a tough decision in the moment because you had the stats to back
168up the decision but definitely an unpopular one um speaking to Tim making decisions based off of what other people say during that time I remember um a gentleman came to our board meeting and he had said that he spoke to Northridge and they had decided to go in a different direction than us and he wasn't even a member of their community right they're making rules based off of just what they read online. And these people don't even live in their community. They're and so a lot I see a lot of that happen. Um if you know the person who's writing on or maybe they're anonymous, they they might not even belong to your community. So um stay true to what you know. Um I know that you have and you will continue to do that.
169And so thank you so much. Um I'm looking forward to you on the other side and we can uh kind of make side eyes when people are out the rest of these people. Thanks [laughter] for being here. Appreciate it. Thank you. [applause] >> Oh, I like this. >> I'm wife tonight and I wasn't planning on it, but everybody else get up here and speak and say something nice. Um, but I would like to say I'm a lifelong resident of Johntown. graduated from high school in 1990. Also had a fabulous math teacher. Um, but I've been in the community forever and my husband when we met and got married like let's move back to John even though as much as I hated the community while I was here [clears throat] so small I want to get
170out and as soon as I left I wanted to come back. So we bought land here, we built a house and my husband has absolutely no ties to this community whatsoever except for me and he stepped up started coaching our son's teams got on the school board join the s he's also a bingo caller when the bingo nights I tear off I run that and he volunteered he does the bingo call so as much as I've complained about the late and all the meetings during the day he brings and plans he was reviewing during construction. I just want to publicly say thank you for stepping in and joining the community. [applause] Joe Robertson in Ro Township. U want to say thank you for your uh commitment, your dedication, multiple years, revan, 20 20 plus years.
171So just incredible what you've accomplished when you've been at the school district. Tim, uh you've been really just an incredible resource. Uh every time, you know, if I need something, I you know, can reach out to you. Um I it's been a pleasure working with both of you. Um and I think I think the challenges that you gave people are true. I think to uh come together as a community. I travel all across the state. Um I couldn't be more proud of the schools. I mean, it really all starts with schools and it starts with leadership. Um everything that you've said in regard to it being a volunteer position and the countless hours that you spend, we we struggle with that uh at the township as well. You know, constantly trying to find people to
172serve on boards. Um it's it's it's a struggle. Uh but I do think that if people keep asking and keep pushing um we can as a group be successful. So the other thing I agree with I had the pleasure of working with Beth and Tim they they're both uh they're both uh very committed in in what they do and uh you know they're going to give you their opinions. Some people may like them, some people may not. But I really just want to say thanks uh and good luck and I'm sure you're not going I'm sure you're not going I'm sure >> I got more time to spend at the township. >> I know. I'm looking I'm looking forward [laughter] You already warned me. You said you We're looking forward to this. Thank you very
173much for your years of service. I appreciate [applause] >> Is there anyone else that wants to speak tonight? Because we'll >> now you will make me cry. >> I've done really well. Well, good evening everyone. Um, good evening, Mr. Swagger, Johntown Board President, esteemed board members, Dr. Wagner, superintendent, district administrators and personnel, community leaders, incoming board members, and members of the public. It's truly an honor to deliver remarks celebrating the service of someone who has given so much of herself to the community of Johnstown. Johnstown was not her hometown, but she made it her hometown and chose to raise her three daughters here more than six decades ago. She was the first elected female to the Johnstown Board of Education and it was then that her public life her life of public service to the
174schools began. Within her 27 years, she has served terms as the president, vice president, and general member. She has led with steady logic and the strong voice of accountability, helping to shape not just policies and budgets, but the very heart of the district. And when new members joined the board, she readily made herself available to mentor and support whatever need or question they had. As her daughters, there were few occasions where a benefit was gained because of her board service. Often her service meant preconceived ideas that her opinion and hours were aligned. However, she modeled that independent thinking was an admirable trait and because of it, all her daughters emulated an independent mindset mindset, not often sharing the same opinion regarding a school-related topic. Some of the expectations of a board member included attending meetings
175and representing the community. And then there was the communication part in the form of phone calls, emails, texts or committee work behind the public meetings. our family members. Our family remembers the countless hours that consumed evenings, weekends, and family time. As a matter of fact, my sisters and I can perfectly recall the image of a wall-mounted rotary phone with its spiral cord stretched to its maximum into the dining room of our house on Main Street. This was meant to create a private office for her in the dining room as she listened to the concerns of a parent that had called a community member or administrator who just needed a few minutes of her time. And if my sisters, often that time extended into at least an hour-long conversation. And if we dared, my sisters and
176I disturb that makeshift schoolboard office in the dining room, we would quickly receive correction in the form of her scoured face, hasty snaps, [laughter] and her mouthing the words, "Girls, girls, this is important." As adult siblings, we have laughed about those moments many times. But the underlying message for us was always she took her service seriously and often those sometimes impassion phone calls evolved into finding a common ground of understanding. Another moment of her service that has guided my path as a parent and an adult was when it was brought to her attention that as a differently aabled student I was eligible to receive busing. More quickly than I would have liked her to and with a grumbling reaction for me. She hastily declined the service of busing on my behalf. The same woman who
177taught me to turn on light switches and kitchen faucets with yard sticks was now deciding that I could and that I would walk from our home on North Main Street to school each day, no matter the distance. She knew I could do it, and she knew that without making difficult decisions for me then, I might grow to believe that life was going to wait for me. and what a disservice that would have been to me and in turn to the world. Difficult decisions have often been a part of her board service. On more than one occasion, she has faced a sea of impassioned people, often wearing matching attire, striving to convey their points of view regarding changes in monetary allocations, expansion of athletics, or student program offerings. On each of those occasions, she communicated a
178decision that often resulted in fissures within her friendships. In many cases, the benefit of time or hindsight has softened those edges, but in some cases, the edges remain. Being a representative and a servant of the community involves difficult decisions where the opposition is not often privy to all the information that influences final outcomes. Not once did she waver. Not once did she backpedal. There is no finer example for a daughter to follow. Year after year, meeting after meeting, she showed up. She was prepared, thoughtful, and ready to do the difficult work that the job expected. Another example of her dedication to the community was the addition of long-term house guests within our home. In the 1980s, she became aware that the high school musical director, Paul McGree, was driving in pre-dawn hours from Italian village
179in Columbus and then returning just before midnight to his wife and young children each day. He happened to be a native of Australia and had no other family support nearby. She knew that without his leadership, the annual musical production might not happen. And so she invited their entire family to come live with us during the musical season to ensure he could maintain some semblance of family life balance and continue to produce the musical. These house guests stayed with us over the course of several years during the musical season. These are wonderful memories for our family. She also played a key role in some of the biggest milestones in our district's history. She has helped to guide the important building projects which have provided safe and modern places to learn and work. She has contributed to
180the building of and years later the renovation of the performing arts center and numerous other projects that have enhanced the student and community experience in Johntown. She research, excuse me. Even when in the most passionate moments, even when opinions were divided and decisions were razor sharp, she led with respect and grace. She researched and she listened. Mrs. Bour, affectionately known to me as mom. Your legacy is everywhere in this district. in the schools you helped build, in the programs you have supported publicly and privately, and in the opportunities you have helped to create for generations of students. Most of all, your legacy lives in the example you've set for all to emulate, especially your daughters, to identify a need, serve with heart, lead with honesty, and never lose sight of the right side of things.
181These elements have rooted deeply within each of your daughter. Your eldest Melissa has served as a magistrate for the state of Ohio for several decades and serves as a book editor and consultant for 21st century financial concepts. Your middle daughter, Les Leanne, has created a successful medical career that includes the founding of a biomed practice and your youngest has led a fulfilling teaching career both in Ohio and abroad and is the co-founder and director of a dual national nonprofit. You will leave this district in an enviable position throughout the state of Ohio. Congratulations on a remarkable legacy of service and thank you for the life lessons you embedded in your infinitely proud daughters, grandchildren, your spouse, and your greater family. Thank you. [applause] >> [applause] >> Is there anyone else that'd like to say anything?
182>> I can't follow that. >> No. >> Jenny, you didn't have any of the perfume problems like we did. You didn't you did a much better job than any of us. Your content was tremendous. >> Can we um before we conclude tonight, we just had a video. We thought we would um just show you what 2025 looked like and it's one we're going to send up uh through the community, but if we can end with that and then we'll be ready for the uh meeting closing. So, if you can run that video It's not a typical basketball game. It's a beautiful I'm so good. Perfume is down here now. >> 2025 has been a great year and I think we're ready to close the meeting unless there's anything else. Resolution 25-12-266 is adjournment of the
183schoolboard meeting. >> Can I get a motion? >> Go ahead. Get a second. >> Call it to an end. Right. >> Call the role, please. >> Mrs. Ber, >> yes. >> Mrs. Thomas, >> yes. >> Mr. Benson, >> yes. >> Mrs. Davis, >> yes. >> Mr. Swagger, >> yes. Meeting is adjourned. 8:41. >> Thanks everyone. [applause]