001I call to order this meeting of the Stow Monroe Falls City Schools Board of Education on Monday, December 15, 2025 at 6 PM. I will do the roll call. East Jenkins >> here. >> Merlin >> here. >> Sheen >> here. Here. >> Suadonic >> here. >> And I am here. >> Please join us for the pledge of >> Excuse me. I'd like to be recognized. to avoid any breach of contract and possible new litigation. And out of fairness and respect for the Stoman Roll Falls community voices who voted on November 4th, I would like to make a motion to table item 13C, superintendent contract amendment, till the January 5th, 2026 meeting after the new board members have been sworn in. In light of the six active lawsuits, this would be professionally prudent and a fiscally
002responsible thing to do. There is a motion. Do I have a second? Seeing none, please join us for the pledge of >> allegiance. To the flag of the United States of America and to the stands nation, indivisible with liberty and justice for all. Everything we do is designed to provide a future ready student- centered learning experience for every single child. Our strategic plan for 2021 through 2026 will help us accomplish this goal by considering every facet of a student's learning experience from curriculum to infrastructure to wellness and everything in between. As members of the board of education, we serve as trustees. Therefore, this is a business meeting being conducted in public, not a public meeting. We are grateful to serve an engaged community and therefore encourage and respect input from citizens. We expect that everyone
003present will behave in a manner consistent with the behavior we expect of our students. We reserve the right to have those who do not comply removed from our meeting. Next item of business, uh, appoint treasurer prom. Do I have a motion? I do motion Tina Merleti. >> We need a motion in a second before we discuss. >> Oh, all right. Yeah. Uh, make a motion to um appoint a treasurer promp. >> Second. >> Okay. Thank you. Call for nominations. >> Tina Merleti. >> Any further nominations? Okay. Roll call. Pass it. East Jenkins. >> I. >> Do I vote? >> Yes. >> Matty. >> I. >> Uh. She >> I. >> Sudonic. >> I. >> W. >> I. Motion carries. Next item of business, our Bulldog Center Stage Awards. Dr. Gould. >> Good evening everyone. I
004would like to present our December winners for the Bulldog Center Stage. Uh, and if the winners would please come to the front, after you are recognized, we will all take a photo together. Starting with Lake View, Heather Berthal, school psychologist. [Applause] Heather is focused on supporting each student in the building. She is in charge of evaluations, but her passion is intervention and supporting each student. She works closely with the counseling office, and her door is always open to students who need a break or need to talk. Even if she is in the middle of writing a report, she will stop what she is doing to help a student. Thank you so much, [Applause] from Fresh Creek. Katrina Burrell, principal. Katrina was presenting during third grade OST testing this fall in the hallway to offer support
005as needed for students. It was exceptionally helpful having having her on hand as questions or students needs appeared during the testing session. She gave breaks to some of my special education students during a stressful time for for them. Katrina is working to know all of her staff here at Fish Creek and understand each student's needs to offer support to them. Congratulations. Next, we have Mike Farmer, custodian from Indian Trail. Is Mike here? Sorry, Mike might be working. Mike works hard at keeping Indian Trail uh elementary school clean. The teamwork between the custodians is amazing as they work together to make sure the students and staff are always cared for, and Mike works incredibly hard to support the Indian Trail community. Thank you so much, Mike. [Applause] From our bus garage, Bob Fiser. Okay, we'll give
006him a hand. He has an excellent rapport with his students and he is always willing to help whenever needed. Mr. Fischer keeps our students safe and happy as they go to and from the school buildings. Congratulations. [Applause] Our next awardee is from the high school, Adam Harter, high school math teacher. Mr. Harter not only teaches the students math, but he also teaches them in the confidence they need to solve problems. Mr. Harter is loved and respected by his students, which is not always an easy task for a math teacher. Students seek out his courses to be taught by him and know that he is always willing to go the extra mile to support them. Congratulations. Next we have from Kempton Middle School, Natalie Harris, special education. Natie contributes every day. Her job is a hard
007one. She manages it with ease and grace and a smile on her face and her students love her for it and so does the staff. When you pass Natie in the hall, you just smile. There is something about the way she carries herself and puts it out towards others that you appreciate. Thank you so much from Riverview. Linda Kelly, kitchen manager. Miss Kelly has done a truly remarkable job as our new kitchen manager. Miss Kelly always has a warm smile and a kind word. She stepped right into the team Riverview and helped us keep our brains happy. Thank you so much from Highland. Jim McGovern, fourth grade teacher. Jen makes learning fun while keeping a high standard for her students to follow. She holds students accountable for their own actions inside and outside the classroom.
008Jen helps promote teamwork and fun, making games to keep the mood light and even donating prizes. She has all she always has a smile and positivity for co-workers. Thank you so much. Our kitchen driver data tech, Hope Maseno, is she here? Hope is ve is is a very creative role model with all students in mind. She is always willing to jump in and do more than her job. Hope works in many buildings and is a strong part of the nutrition team. Many of the creative ideas that we actually have for lunches and breakfast come from hope as well as keeping all students allergies and wellness in check. Thank you so much from Echo Hills. Gail Simcock, special education assistant. [Applause] This month, as a new staff member joined her team, Gail has shined as a
009mentor and a guide. She has generously shared her knowledge, answered questions, and modeled the professionalism and positivity that define our school culture. Her welcoming approach has made the transition seamless and has set a powerful example of what it means to support one another as colleagues. Thank you so much. Last but not least, Woodland Briana Simpkins, physical education teacher. Bri is a wonderful advocate for her students. She collaborates with her colleagues to plan engaging and interesting lessons every day. Bri builds positive relationships with her students, parents, and is the car rider dismissal extraordinaire. The students love going to PE because of Bri. Thank you so much. Next up, we have more recognitions. Dr. Gold. >> Yes. So, this year we have implemented a holiday card contest. The theme uh was selected by the students. Students could
010participate. Their artwork uh had to be on an 8 and 1 half by 11 sheet of paper. Uh they could include crayons, markers, pencils, paint, whatever uh they decided or liked for their portrait. Uh they had to submit these and they were judged uh by community members as well as uh individuals uh from the inside of the organization. We will have a first place, a second place, and a third place winner. For the first place winner, their artwork will be featured in as the district's official holiday card. The card, they will also receive their card frames. They will also receive their artwork as a actual Christmas card that they can also send out to families and friends. and they will receive a gift card for uh their work. The second place winner will also receive
011a gift card and a set of holiday cards to also share with their family and friends. And our third place winner will also receive cards to share with their family and friends and a gift card as well. So, what I would like to do is to start with our third place winner for this evening. And so our third place winner is Ivy from Riverview Elementary. [Applause] And what you see in front of you is her actual holiday card. [Applause] Ivy, don't go anywhere. [Applause] our second place winner. Next, still on third place. Next is Ayanna Kroom and she is from our high school. She will be receiving a gift card and cards for her friends and family. [Applause] And I think someone's getting very excited because they figured out that they are the first place
012winner. So I'm gonna have go ahead and come on up. As you can see, our first place winner, this will be the district holiday card. And so for all of our [Applause] [Laughter] little brother is very proud. And so all of our uh partners will receive a holiday card from the district. And this will be the card that they will receive uh from us. [Applause] I can tell you that the team who uh did the selection process had a wonderful time looking through all of the holiday cards. And again, I want to thank all of the students who participated and congratulations to all of the winners and their families. [Applause] Okay, our next recognition will be our 2026 Ohio Rise and this is recognizing an inspiring school employee. And I'm going to have Mr. the
013love come up and share um who we recognized. >> Awesome. Thank you for having me. Uh it is with great appreciation that we recognize Robert Mangis uh for his outstanding dedication and professionalism during an especially challenging year. Throughout this period, Rob consistently went above and beyond the expectations of the role, demonstrating exceptional technical skill, reliability, and commitment to Stow Monroe Falls and the students. Despite increased demands and unforeseen obstacles, Rob remained focused, dependable, never missing work, and solutionoriented. His willingness to take on additional responsibilities, work extended hours when needed, and ensure equipment and vehicles were safe and operational played a critical role in keeping transportation running smoothly. Rob's positive attitude and calm presence under pressure. Professionalism and readiness to support others made a meaningful difference not only in outcomes, but in morale during a very
014difficult time. On top of that, Rob's here, and it's a it's astounding that he's here because Rob has been working today since 3:00 a.m. this morning. So, thank you, Rob. Rob, you want to come on up? >> Rob is our head mechanic and he does an amazing job. And again, thank you, Rob. I'm sorry, I forgot to give Farah her actual plaque with her photo. Okay. Our next item of business, I will entertain a motion to move into executive session under 121.22G1 to consider the compensation of a public employee or official and 121 22G1 to consider the employment of a public employee or official. Do I have a motion? >> So moved. >> Second. And can I also please invite our two new board members uh Jason Whitaker and John Moyer to join us in
015exact session please. >> Is that a a motion? >> Yes. >> Second. >> Any discussion? >> What was the motion? >> To invite our two new board members to join us in exact session. >> Okay. Roll call, please. >> East Jenkins. I >> I Sheenhan >> I >> Sir I >> W >> I and now motion carries >> roll call for the executive session itself. East Jenkins I >> Merlotti I Shuen >> I >> Sudonic >> I >> win >> I we are in executive session at 6:20 we will be back for more formal action afterward Okay, we are back from executive session at 7:14. Our next item of business is comments from the audience. At this time in our agenda, we invite citizens to share their concerns about items on today's agenda that will
016be voted on only. Comments on non-aggenda items will be heard later in the meeting. All comments must be directed to the entire board and be no longer than three minutes. We will listen to and consider your remarks, but there will be no conversation aside from clarifying questions. If you are seeking a direct response or further information, we ask that you submit your request in writing. Please begin your remarks with your first and last name. Do we have the timer? Good evening. I'm Angela Smith. As a 37year resident of Stowe and a parent of two Stow grads and a grandparent of a student in the district in addition to being a recently retired superintendent, I want to say that I support the board in amending the contract of Dr. Gold. Dr. Gold has set a vision
017for this district with her Heart of the Bulldog campaign this year. Her weekly newsletters keep people informed about what's happening in the schools. She is visible in all buildings and community events. And I know firsthand that is no easy feat for a district our size. But most importantly, having a consistent and experienced leadership is necessary for us to get through these uncertain times with school funding once again becoming a murky picture. Strong leadership with a strong cabinet is needed to keep students at the core and Dr. Gold has worked hard to provide the leadership necessary to provide an outstanding education for the students of the Stow Monroe Falls City School District. Thank you for your time this evening. >> Hi, my name is Aaron Joerger. I'm a STO alum and secretary of a local nonprofit
018called STO Collaboration for Change. I'm commenting tonight uh to also commend the board on putting Dr. Gold's contract extension on the agenda. With nearly three decades in education and experience as a teacher, principal, assistant superintendent, and adjunct professor along with two master's degrees in a PhD, she brings a wealth of experience, insight, and steady leadership to the district. Under Dr. Gold's leadership, Stow Falls City School District earned a four-star rating on the Ohio Report Card. Dr. Gold's commitment to community involvement is evident in both her words and her actions. from riding buses with students on the first day of school, hosting hosting listen and learn sessions, attending school and community events, reading to students, and staying actively involved with the Chamber of Commerce and PTA. She consistently shows up for our students in our community.
019Over the past week or so, community members have rallied online to oppose Dr. Gold's contract extension, which is why a board member interrupted the beginning of this meeting to make a statement about it that wasn't on the agenda, which violates Robert's rules of order. Make no mistake, in this situation and during the time when the board was considering hiring Dr. Gold, racism was the reason why people showed up in droves to voice disapproval, and that continues tonight. Otherwise, why would people have such a problem with extending her contract? You certainly didn't see that happen when a former superintendent uh who was white was sued for financial misconduct. I implore board members, fellow alums, and current residents to consider this before speaking and acting in the future. Just know that your motivations are plain to see
020and won't be forgotten. Thank you. I'm Donald Abbott. I've lived in Stow since 1981. And the issue regarding the addendum to Dr. Gould's uh contract, I request that it be postponed until January and put on that agenda. Thank you. I just want to let Dr. Gold know that this is not a personal issue about anything. >> Please begin with your name, ma'am. >> We have been having issues. >> Ma'am, please begin your comments with your name. >> Oh, Marty Simkins. I'm sorry. I would have thought you remembered that. >> Um, so according to the agenda, an addendum contract is being offered to the superintendent. Record requests show the required annual evaluation of her job has not been done. I'm guessing that is why an executive session took place before the agenda. This is exactly what
021went down two years ago. Members of this board approved an addendum contract for Bratton, giving him a sweet deal for 18 months followed by a very generous severance package. Obviously, this group learned nothing from the fallout of that decision. The current president will only face center from this community, but two of you are sitting on the next year's board. The actions of your voters today will remove the last bit of confidence this community has in the school board. Monur Falls had high hopes that by keeping Tina on the board, Monur Falls would have a voice on the board. I bet they did not bargain for the fact that her vote would be used to undermine the incoming board. Every conversation from the treasurer and the school board has been about money. Do you really think
022this community will give this board any money after the sneaky underhanded actions? But maybe that is the plan. If you can't get elected, you sabotage the new board. >> Hi, I'm Sarah Sigman. I'm a resident of Stowe for 22 years and three of my children have graduated from Stowe. Um I just wanted to say that in my opinion anyone who is on the school board or on city council, any of these elected um positions should also be a resident of Stowe. And even people that get up and have something to say and speak at the meetings should also be residents of Stow Monro Falls because otherwise how does it affect you and your family in your home if you live outside the community? This is about our community, our people, who lives here, who works
023here. um new ones that have just moved in. That's great. Pe people that have moved out, they're alumni, but they're not really, you know, they're they're part of a new community wherever they move to. This should just strictly be about our community. And I wish our superintendent did live here, even though she does come here, I guess, and comes to a lot of things as much as she can, but I really think it should be a requirement in my opinion. Thank you. >> Good evening. My name is Anidra Jones, uh, mother of two Stoman Falls graduates, um, and a Stowe resident for over 20 years. Um, here to speak first in support of the school board. Thank you all for your service this year. It's really appreciated by many members of the community. Also in
024support of Dr. Gould. Um, it was very clear from the very first community conversation that Dr. who was the most qualified candidate for the superintendent's job and I think we have all seen that she has done an exemplary job up to this point including doing things like the awards that we saw um members of the staff and faculty receive tonight as well as students. Um, I think it would be a shame for her contract to not be renewed as we have seen the wonderful job she has done and that it would be a great loss for the Stow and Moro Falls communities were she not to continue on as our superintendent. Part of the reason why I personally moved to Stowe because I thought it would be a great place to raise my daughters and
025it has been. Um, and so I hope that it continues to be that same place for me and for people like me. Um, I think it's also important for our students to see a diverse group of of people, you know, who look like them in positions of leadership. Um, and that's important to not take that away, especially for people who are more than qualified for the position. Thank you. [Applause] Hello, my name is Amy Mesmore Jones. I'm a resident of Stowe. Tonight, I am yielding some of my time to read a letter from Moren Capi, a resident of Stowe. She unfortunately could not be here tonight. Her letter states to the Stowe Board of Education and Dr. Gold. I just want to take a minute to thank you for all your hard work this past
026year. My first grade granddaughter at Indian Trail is thriving and according to her recent state testing, she is in the 99th percentile. Although I am saddened that Pam will be leaving the board, I am hoping they will continue their agenda with the next board members coming in. Pam is a great leader and a big advocate for the students and their well-being. She has held her head high with the vile comments some of our residents have directed towards her. Dr. Gold has a steady hand and the experience as our superintendent to lead our students to a great future. She has brought her extensive experience to our school district. She prioritizes our students, promotes equity and leadership. What I don't like is a core group of people including a a current board member and some not even
027residents of Stowe have relentlessly attacked the board posting untruths and yes even doxing Pam and her daughter. They should be embarrassed at their childish behavior. I pray their children and grandchildren do not continue their behavior that these people have demonstrated. I do want to wish the new board members the best of luck and pray you can all work together. Merry Christmas to peeps. Now for my comment. I am proud of how much a majority of the school board has accomplished in just the time I have been a resident of Stow. I'm saddened to know that Dr. Gold has continuously been attacked and that there is a current push to remove Dr. Gold and replace her with Christy Pro. This would be a grave mistake for students if this were to happen. Especially since Christy applied
028for a sup superintendent job in Waterlue, a district with 800 students and was turned down for someone who had more classroom experience. To the current board, thank you for all of your hard work and I hope to see you still doing good work in our community. Thank you. [Applause] Dave Bombgardner, Stow resident, Stow alum, six decades in town, resident here. Um, first of all, I agree with her comment about citizens from Mono Falls and Stow should be the only ones allowed to speak here. One of the first speakers, second one, actually doesn't even stand for the pledge of allegiance. My father fought on the beaches of Normandy so he would have the right to be so ignorant and disrespectful. Moving on. Second, when they hired Dr. Gould, we had 60 businesses that endorsed su assistant
029superintendent pro. We had all the teachers doing the same endorsement and the community, but a stacked group of board members handpicked to get a majority with the same woke agenda defied the community. Okay. Now, you want to do this again before the new board comes in. You have a positive change coming up at the first of the year to move the school forward with no predetermined agenda except to help the students in this committee. Your laugh, Mr. Dr. Wind, is great. I love it because they said goodbye to you. You got the last lowest number of votes. So, we're looking forward to moving on. Please extend the contract extension discussion to the new boards in place. [Applause] I HAD a couple other things. We have six lawsuits pending. We spend $35,000 roughly dollars a year
030on a credit card. We have a $50,000 open balance on a credit card in this town. And We also didn't pay our utility bills for three months. Think about that. Before we spend our money, David Jenkins, resident of Stow. Um, I have two students in St. Monroe Falls High School. 14-year football coach in the community. Um, it's very obvious what's going on here, but it was eloquently said about how we had a previous superintendent that was caught stealing money from the students. When he was caught, he fired the whistleblower, fired the treasurer and nothing was done about that. And we properly, you know, said that this was done by the previous boards, which some of those folks are coming right back in. Community voted those folks back in. So if stealing is not a problem,
031then what is [Applause] um Melanie Merritt almost 20 years resident. First, I want to thank the current board for what they've done for our community. Um, for your efforts made towards making our growing diverse community feel represented and protected. It wasn't easy or without criticism, and at times it was even painful for some of you as your character was attacked and terrifying as you and your families were doxed and targeted by raid, unfounded accusations. Nobody should have to go through that to serve their community. Same goes for the treasurer and the superintendent positions. I admire your calm professionalism in the face of such unfounded attacks. Information without context is more dangerous than misinformation, as the information itself looks factual, while leaving out the context can make it look nefarious and damning. Please know that there
032are so many people in this town that support you and saw through the clown show, including the purposeful disruption of many meetings by a member for what it was. Political theater by bad actors to stop the work of the board. I fully support the extension of Dr. Gould's contract. We're lucky to have such a dedicated, approachable, well-educated, and qualified leader for our district. And honestly, I'm amazed she stays from an unheard of outright campaign against her hiring, signs and all, to now people once again making unfounded accusations. She deserves so much for more than the pitchforks and torches she's been met with. Dr. Gould, I have such great respect for your fortitude and dedication to our students. Thank you. And thank you again for your service. [Applause] I'm not seeing any further comments. Okay, moving
033on. Our next item of business is the superintendent consent agenda. Do I have a motion? >> So moved. Second. Any questions or discussion? Roll call, please. East Jenkins. >> I. Merlatti. >> I. >> She >> I. >> Sudonic. >> Hi. >> Win. >> I. Next item of business. Superintendent recommendations. Personnel recommendation. Do I have a motion? motion. >> Second, Dr. Gold any >> I would just like to acknowledge the um contributions that we received >> uh from uh our community members. Ryan Courtright donated $20 to our volleyball team. Victoria Douglas um also donated 1,500 to the PBI unit at the STO Marro Falls High School. Reacha family donated $15 to the student council and Young's Printing donated $3,38 to the school district. So, thank you so much for those donations and they will receive a
034thank you letter. >> Thank you. Sorry for skipping past that real quick. Donations are always much appreciated. Um, any discussion of the personnel. Roll call, please. >> East Jenkins. I Sheen >> I. >> Sonic. >> I. >> W. >> I. >> Next item. Local professional development committee standards and guidelines. Do I have a motion? >> Some moved. >> Second. >> Dr. Dr. Gold, could you give us a quick explanation >> here? I'm asking the board to approve an updated uh LPDC, that's what local professional development committee stands for, on their standards and guidelines as presented in the uh board docs. There are some updates that needed to be made. U there >> any questions or discussion? >> Roll call, please. Le Jenkins I >> Matt I Sheen >> I sit >> I >> win >>
035I. >> Next up Neola policy 5136 personal communication device. Do I have a motion? >> So moved. >> Second. >> Dr. Gold. I'm asking the board to uh wave this uh policy from three readings uh and so that it can go into effect as we talk about our recommendations for the cell phone policy uh this evening. In the document, what has happened is that the items were not uh put in where there should be X's uh in the first portion of that paragraph uh for personal communication devices. Everything is to stay the same. All of that would go in when you get into uh page two where you have items A through F. A, B, and E will be selected because the other ones will not fall in line with the policy recommendation. The current
036paragraphs after that fall in line with board policy 2461. Uh, and so they align with that and so all of those items would be selected for the policy. Again, I'm asking the board to um wave the uh three readings. So the motion is to declare an emergency, wave the three readings and adopt the new policy. Any further discussion or questions? >> Just to reiterate, this is based on state mandate. Correct. >> Well, this is the policy that we uh need to update that will align to what uh House Bill 250 outlines. >> Thank you. Anything further? Roll call, please. Jenkins. >> Hi, Merlatti. >> I Sheen, >> Sodor, >> I win. >> I Next item, extended field trip. Do I have a motion? >> Some moved. >> Second. >> Dr. G. So, we have the
037opportunity to have approximately five of our students to attend a culinary uh competition that will be held in uh Delaware County, Ohio in the month of March. Any questions? Just want to speak out loud. It's uh stated all expenses are paid through fundraising activities for this >> roll call, please. >> East Jenkins. I Marlotti I Sheen >> I >> Siron >> I >> W >> I >> Next item 11A cell phone policy this is a discussion Dr. Gold. So, I'd like to share the uh recommendation in regards to the uh cell phone policy uh that needs to uh align with the policy that was uh just approved by the board. Have the next slide. Go back what Cody. So um we as presented before, House Bill 250 is in law and there is a section
038in the House bill that uh talks about the banning of cell phones and this ban is to take place uh starting in January of so uh just a little background here uh in regards to why the cell phone ban is being uh put in place or enacted by our governor uh for all school districts. You see that we uh there it outlines about cell phones causing distractions uh the considerations that we need to take into place and how it aligns to uh best practices when it comes to the research and studies about uh what happens when um cell phones distract uh our young people. So, I wanted to share a timeline that this is uh not a hasty decision. We've been talking about this since February of 25 when we introduced House Bill 250 to
039the board and we also conducted a survey with our community with over 600 and some replies uh in that survey. Then moving into August of 2025, we provided the board with a presentation on the proposed recommendation that was going to take place K through 12 for our school district. We shared information with families regarding that uh policy and the rationale behind why we did what we did for the high school. Uh in the recommendation, it was somewhat different than that from K through 8. Uh we wanted to align ourselves to what was happening in what we call our six compact district because our students are traveling across uh to schools Woodri, Kent, Town, Kyhoga Falls, and Hudson to participate in our career technical education programs. And so at that time, the policy that we had
040in place aligned to that. During the months of October, again, there was a presentation to the board uh through November and the high school administration collaborated with the staff uh to gain uh further information from them in regards to enacting what our policy looked like from our K8 perspective. Superintendent also held listen and learn with our students and our student representative actually reported out on what that looked like. Um when we uh had our discussion in December where we are right now, we are making a recommendation to the board in regards to the high school procedures and then I will share some new information in regards to artificial intelligence technology that we all need to be aware of. So the recommendation um for the um K through 8 perspective, elementary, intermediate and our middle schools
041is to not change what we have currently. The cell phone policy is that the cell phones are not to be used during the day and they must either be in the students locker or in their book bags. Students who have medical reasons must have prior approval and must be shared with the staff in advance. So we are not recommending any changes for that particular uh portion of the the uh procedural things that we're doing. Next slide. Here you have what is currently uh happening at the high school. Currently students may have uh their cell phones during class exchanges in the cafeteria and during study halls. The new procedures that we are recommending here uh and they came up with the slogan I did not stow it and don't show it. uh that came from them
042applies to hallways, study halls, classrooms, restrooms, offices, and all transitions. All cell phones, earbuds, headphones, AI glasses, similar personal devices must be silenced and stored in the backpack or locker the entire instructional day from 7:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. These devices may not be used or visible during class exchanges in study halls, during restroom breaks, or while moving throughout the building. devices must remain stored during the lunch hour. This also applies to field trips must follow the same expectation unless otherwise approved by the principal and smart watches may be worn but must remain in a non-communicative mode during class periods. In our policy, we are including what we are calling augmented reality eyewear. It is the latest trend and the hottest uh Christmas item uh this year. And so we want parents to understand that
043these will not be permitted on our campuses. Um, these are glasses that can be worn that also can record, take pictures as well as you can access it a question just like you're doing a Google search. This is a violation of board policy 2461 and so it will be included as part of the recommendation for the policy. So it will include augmented uh reality uh eyewear. and our next steps. And our next step is to have feedback from our board meeting here tonight. We would then like to communicate this building and districtwide the policy to our parents and families. We want to review any changes or implications to the student code of conduct uh that this may have and also establish a monitoring and feedback loop where we will consistently look at this policy in
044case there are another augmented uh devices that will be coming out that will uh do the same thing as the eyewear. And so I will turn it over to the board for any questions or feedback. >> I I have a question. Um what would be the process? Um I know we mentioned that health um like health and mental health or other you know exceptions would be you know provided is how what is the process for a student to go through to get an exception. >> So the students still can have their phone in their book bag or in their locker. So those students who have health reasons those would be documented and so they would have that in their book bag more than likely. >> Okay. Yeah. What is the consequence if a student doesn't
045comply? >> I did I didn't hear everything that you said. >> What is the consequence if a student doesn't comply? >> So, those have been outlined. Pull it out here. do have an outline here. Okay. So, in the first offense, cell phones and headphones are collected and turned into the attendance office. Um, the administrator will pick up the device from the classroom. A email will be sent to parents notifying them of the violation and the student may retrieve that device at dismissal. For a second offense, they are also held in the attendance office for the remainder of the days. Again, the administrators are picking those up from classroom. The student will receive a Wednesday detention that starts at 7:30. Uh, an automated email will be sent and phone call from the grade level administrator. Student
046again can retrieve that at the end of the day. Third offense, cell phone headphones are held in the attendance office. Administrator picks them up. Student will receive inschool restriction. Uh, and then an email of and phone call will be uh given to the parent. A parent or guardian may pick up the advice. For habitual offenses, cell phones, headphones are held for the remainder of the day. Administrator always picks those up. Progressive discipline will follow and a phone call home for grade level uh will happen by the grade level administrator. >> Okay. My biggest concern is that we're not sending students home and missing education because we have a cell phone. >> So, as long as that is not the consequence, then that that is okay with me. Any further questions, discussion? >> Yeah, I have
047a I have a couple of things here. Um, it looks like with the with the different offenses. Um, this could put an extra burden on the teachers and the other people that the students would come in contact with. um that that wouldn't be necessary. And and and I'm and I'm guessing from what I'm seeing here is that we're this is something that could be up for a vote at the next me at whatever our next meeting would be or the meeting after that. Is that kind of the plan? >> No, that's for tonight because we want to roll this out. >> So it's a procedural process to our policy, >> right? Well, because this says discussion, it doesn't say action. So, we're voting on this. >> You don't have to vote on this. >> We
048don't have to vote on it. All right. Well, if if there was something that um as a board member I'd want to discuss to potentially change what this is, then how would how would that go about? >> That's why I'm asking for feedback tonight. >> Okay. Um yeah, I frankly would just want to see it in the locker room. In the locker in the locker, period and turned off, not in the backpack. >> This is going to add an additional level of aggravation for teachers. And I feel that with that added level of aggravation for the teachers that you're going to find teachers who just don't enforce it. So you're going to have some teachers that do enforce it, some teachers that don't. The kids will figure that out and it'll just be even a
049bigger headache. Um I do know in Solen Solen has the it is locker uh it's in their locker. it's turned off. They've made the discipline very simple. If you're found with the phone, it or if you're seen with the phone, it is collected, it is brought to the office and the parent has to come and pick it up. So, I think there may be some things I would like to have further discussion about or consideration um because I think this could be just a major headache for our for our teachers. So this was discussed with the teachers. This is the recommendation that came from the high school administrative and teachers. >> All right. Then will we is there any plan then to go to revisit this to go back and say okay this is what
050we did. We need to go and look at this again and maybe tweak it a little bit. Is there >> I'll be more than happy to meet with you and the principal. >> Mr. And again, it is the board's prerogative to set policy and to change policy. And you are welcome to have those discussions and um run any suggested changes by administration and legal counsel. Uh this is in compliance with Ohio State Laws. We want to make sure that we continue to stay in compliance with that. Um so you always have that option moving forward. >> I'm aware of that. I'm aware of that. I'm just asking. I'm just getting it out there public as far as the process and what my opposition and part of this process is and if there will be that
051if that opportunity will be there to discuss it further and to modify this if need be in the future. I'd like to add that um as we've moved toward less uh device access, especially less cell phone access for our students, I've heard from quite a few parents who have been concerned about uh the safety aspect and certainly we all know, we all see the headlines uh that schools are not as safe as they might have been when you and I went to school. Um, and the fact that the phones are in a caddy in the room, I think seems to provide the parents um, some reassurance that if something were to happen that students would be able to access their phones quickly. And that was the rationale behind why the staff was okay with them
052going in their book bags and in the lockers because they're saying that they don't want to do the caddy system and this uh and so either book bag locker and just not and just remove the caddy from their classrooms at this point. >> Yeah. My only question was going to be that, you know, I know you done a lot of research with teachers and admin and this is this is the plan that they have signed off on as well. >> Yes. >> Okay. Thank you. >> They've had extensive discussions with the principal in regards to this. >> I appreciate that. Thank you. Anything further on that topic? >> Okay. >> I'll just add really quickly that this the polic I I know I've expressed discomfort with, you know, moving in this direction before, but if
053this is the direction that we have to take and I'm supportive of it, and I think it's important for us to show a united front, even when it's not necessarily something we personally agree with. I support you. Okay, moving forward. Next, we have the treasurer's consent agenda. Do I have a motion? >> So moved. Second. >> Okay. Any discussion of the items on the consent agenda? Roll call, please. >> East Jenkins. I. Marlotti. I. Suronic. I >> Shan. >> No. >> Win. I Okay, next up, new business. The first item, approve the organizational meeting date. Do I have a motion? So moved. >> Second. >> So the proposal for the board of education organizational meeting date is for that to occur on January 5th. of 2026. Any discussion? >> Do we need the new board
054members to attend? >> Yes. >> Have Have the new board members been given that date? Have we discussed that with them that >> I'm hearing a yes from that direction and a yes from that direction? >> Okay. Anything further? >> Roll call, please. >> Jenkins. I Sheen. I >> sick. >> Hi, >> Win I. >> Our next item is to appoint a president prom to um preside over that organizational meeting until board officers are elected. Do I have a motion? >> Sure. Uh so move >> second. >> Okay. Do I have nominations for the president prom? >> Yes, I would like to nominate Carrie. >> I was going to nominate Miss Meritty. >> That was going to be my nomination. >> I'd also like to nominate Miss Merlin. >> Okay. So, we have two nominations.
055Any further nominations? >> No. Okay. So when we call the role, please um indicate whether you would like that position to be Meritty or Sue Dolnick. Call the role, please. Jenkins, you're ready. Um Merleti I'll vote for myself Sheen Carrie >> Sonic Missy >> when Meritty >> so Miss Meritti will be our president prom for the organizational meeting our next item is the superintendent contract amendment. Do I have a motion? >> So moved. >> Second. >> I would like to begin this discussion myself. Um, as a board member, I have always appreciated hearing from the community about their concerns as well as about what they appreciate in the district. And for our community's benefit, I would like to share a few things regarding this contract. First of all, the rumors swirling about what sort of
056increase this contract offers the superintendent have been absolutely ridiculous. This contract gives our current superintendent the pay increases that align with the rest of our staff. So rather than increases of between two and a half and two and three/4ers of a percent per year, the raises become 3%. The second thing this contract does is increase the superintendent's annuity from $5,000 to what the previous superintendent was receiving at $10,000. Between those two changes, the superintendent will see an increase in compensation of around $6,000 a year. The final thing this contract offers is an extension from the original three years to five years total, so that she gets two more years with the district. Secondly, the option of extending the contract past the original three years is something which was discussed and considered during the time the
057board was making the hiring decision nearly two years ago. Now, a three-year contract gives a board a chance to ensure a good fit between an administrator and the district they serve. If a board is satisfied with the fit, they can extend that contract. And if they are not, they can choose not to extend and the administrator can begin looking for employment elsewhere, usually during year two, but definitely by the beginning of year three, a time which is currently fast approaching. Then over the course of the past year and a half, we have worked closely with the superintendent and conducted multiple meetings explicitly to check in on her progress toward the goals which she and the board had agreed upon. This included discussion with the full board last fall, this April, and this July, as well
058as a number of one-on-one meetings between the superintendent and various members of the board. However, evaluating performance does not stop there. I personally have had many conversations over the past year with various stakeholders, staff, students, alumni, parents, mayors, and council members, business leaders, gathering their impressions. Those who have worked alongside Dr. Gold and even those who have simply had a conversation with her at a community event or her widely appreciated listen and learns have universally had great things to say about her. Do I even need to point out how 180 degrees different this is from the feedback I received on our previous superintendent? As this feedback was gathered, the discussion regarding the potential for extending this contract began in April, continued in July, and is culminating with this vote tonight. This decision was undertaken due
059to many factors, chief among them, Dr. Guild's excellent progress toward goals agreed upon with the board, including community engagement, budgeting responsibility, and academic leadership. It is absolutely essential now as we have yet another treasurer fleeing the district that some stability in administration and leadership is desperately needed for our staff, for our students, and for our community. Incoming board members have not yet even begun to work with Dr. Gold with the intensity that this board has. and the suggestion that they would somehow be better placed to evaluate her work in a matter of weeks is laughable. It is nothing short of hubris on the part of someone not yet sworn in to think that they can immediately gather the vast amounts of information that have been considered in making this decision, especially as they work to
060select a new treasurer, which is itself an incredibly timeintensive endeavor. I would like to make it crystal clear there is nothing excessive and nothing sudden about this and there is absolutely nothing inappropriate about the board who has worked extremely closely with her for the past year and a half making this decision. Any further discussion? Yes, this contract extension is being done by the board at its last meeting. There are no performance evaluations of the superintendent in her file, which is required by the superintendent's contract. As a sitting board member, I was first made aware of this contract extension only on Thursday, December 11th. As I was checking the agenda online, I was not including any discussions, thoughts, considerations of value for this action. This board, excluding me, chooses to applaud the superintendent's performance without an
061accountable evaluation which is required in her contract. This is simply being done to remove the discretion and decision making of the incoming board members and to ensure the superintendent's lifespan will be longer than the current newly elected board members term. The district is currently in litigation with six pending lawsuits. it would be fiscally irresponsible to take action on an item such as this that could cause additional litigation. So essentially this is a power play. You can use the words unethical, unprofessional, backhanded, deceitful, spiteful, pathetic, despicable, juvenile, but more importantly, it dismisses and silences the voice of the Stonew Stone Monroe Falls community that just elected the new board members. This contract extension should be tabled till the new board is installed at the January 5th meeting. >> Mr. Sheen, there will be order in the
062audience, please. Mr. Sheen, you were not there for that discussion because you chose not to attend the executive session in which it was discussed. I chose not to I chose not to attend in the event of um legal litigation that could come because of breach of contract. >> No, I'm sorry. Actually, this has been going on back since July when we when Dr. Gould had her review. Um we have the paperwork that shows the date she had her review. You just didn't attend exec session and attend the review of both uh Mr. Galano or Dr. Gold. >> And and this is not in her file. I understand that that's and it needs to be placed in her file, but it exists and you can see it. >> If it was in her file, which I
063requested, I would have seen it. >> I understand that. >> If you had attended the meeting, you would have seen it as well. >> If it was placed in her file, I would have seen it. >> You excluded yourself from those discussions. You were not excluded by the rest of the board. You have been excluded from many discussions because you refused to answer the phone. You refused to speak to me and that is why you were >> Excuse me. Excuse me. This is not your place as an equal board member to dictate my behavior. >> You were just throwing out insulting words about my behavior, sir. >> Okay. >> I never mentioned we we're not talking about this. We we need to move on to a vote or continue discussion about Dr. I just wanted
064to uh add that um to make sure that it's very clear that there is um a review that Dr. Gould um participated in from the date is let's just had it up. I think it's it's July 21st, 2025. Um, I don't know how that it did not end up in her file, but it exists and the date stamps would be on there from anybody that wants to uh records request it from this point. It exists and excuse me um I apologize that Mr. Sheen decided not to attend exec session and did not get um the information. I think that's unfortunate. um it is best when all five board members are involved in decisions, but we can't um control for someone who intentionally removes himself. I think that um Dr. Gould has more than earned a
065contract extension um with what she has brought to the district um from governance to communication to uh building up a very broken infrastructure. Um I think that you know just in the short year and a half that she's been there been here there have been numerous uh situations that she has uncovered where there's just no infrastructure no no basis no no understanding for for I'm sorry >> yeah no administrative guidelines just a complete lack of understanding um for anybody to follow and the the implementation of ground up um policy and procedure is just um it's it's astounding how well she's done in the short period of time she's been here. And that speaks to the long um history that she has in education starting in the classroom, working up through um building administration and then
066you know serving as an assistant superintendent. I am we are very lucky to have her here. Um as I mentioned you know um earlier to you know in exact session I was just mentioning how when you have a contract that's three years if you don't in work on um increasing that contract during that time you set yourself up for u a person finding another job in the meantime because they feel um that they have not found their long-term place yet and Dr. Gold has found her long-term place here. We are lucky to have her and I am excited and grateful to provide an extension for her. I do think and regret that it is coming at this exact moment. I think it's inopportune and it does cast a a negative light on the idea that
067uh someone is trying to just slip it in at the last minute. I think that is an oversight um on our part that we didn't just do it in August um rather than you know letting other um board priorities take place. Um, so with that being said, I um I am grateful that she's here and I hope that as we move through to the next board um when we make decisions together as a team, they will come and come to understand exactly why it's so important for us to have done this contract extension. >> Thank you for focusing up us on what we need to discuss. Anything further? >> Yes. Um you you all have expressed your admiration for the OSBA. Uh we pay them a pretty hefty fee for their adi advice and uh
068OB OSBA says that they do not officially endorse five-year terms as recommended as a recommended standard practice. So you have the organization that we pay to for advice which we did not heed and we've not heeded it on several other items. Um, and I appreciate your opinion, Carrie, but that's what it was, opinion. Um, if these items were documented in her file, then it would have been a very easy opportunity for me as well as anyone in the community to read and to see um, factually what the achievements are of our superintendent. >> I'm going to go ahead and share you on the document from July 21st, 2025. Right now, >> that doesn't do me any good. No, you're ready to vote on this. >> No, you want that then. Okay. >> It does absolutely
069mean no good at all. >> Okay. >> And and if that's all the and if and if you truly believe that, then there should be no issue with letting the incoming board, which the community has spoken, the people have spoken, should have that opportunity to be involved in this decision. And as I said, rather than being hamstrung by uh a contract that will last longer than the than the than the board members that were just uh elected, >> when you use terms such as hamstrung, it indicates that you have um >> Yeah, they would have no they would have no say on on on us on the superintendent. >> Why why would they need to have a say on the superintendent that's done? >> They may they may feel differently. >> For what reason? I
070I don't have I can't see into the future. >> You do because you you've been see I can't see into the future. I cannot see into the future. But you've you've now limit you've you've eliminated their opportunity to to um to have that type of uh conversation or discussion. >> If this had been done in August as it should have been, we would not have be having this discussion. But >> right there, bingo. >> Right. Mr. Please do not interrupt your fellow board members. >> Let's follow the rules. do not inter have baseless lawsuits from other community members and you then we may have been able to take care of this in August. >> I think it's probably best if we just move on to the next >> I think it's time to call the
071question. >> Roll call, please. >> Ace Jenkins. >> I Sheen, >> no. >> Sir Donard, >> I win. I our next item is uh the appointment of our interim treasurer. Do I have a motion? >> So moved. >> Second. >> So you may recall at a previous meeting we um approved the contract. This will um officially name our interim treasurer so that she has um the access that she needs to all of our accounts. Any questions or discussion? Roll call, please. A Jenkins. >> I Sheen, >> I to item D. >> Yes. >> Sue Donut. I >> when >> I >> Our next item is the exempt salary schedule. Do I have a motion? >> So moved. >> Second. Any discussion? Roll call, please. >> Ace Jenkins. >> I Sheen. >> Hi. >> Sudon. I
072>> when >> I >> Our next item is our second comments from the audience period. At this time, we welcome any additional comments and concerns citizens wish to bring before the board of education. All comments must be directed to the entire board and be no longer than three minutes. We will listen to and consider your remarks, but there will be no conversation aside from clarifying questions. If you are seeking a direct response or further information, we ask that you submit your request in writing. Please begin your remarks with your first and last name. Okay, I'm not seeing any commenters. Then we will move on and we'll entertain a motion to adjurnn. So moved. >> Second. Roll call, please. >> Ace Jenkins. Idi. Shen. >> Hi. >> Sonic. >> Hi. >> W. I