001All right, good evening and welcome to the April 21st, 2026 Westerville City Schools Board of Education meeting. Mrs. Welty, can you please take the roll? Starcher Here. Goodright Here. Kleinhenz Here. Nair Here. Deegan Please join me in standing for the Pledge of Allegiance. I pledge allegiance to the flag of the United States of America and to the republic for which it stands, one nation under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all. Can I please get a motion to approve the April 2026 Board agenda as presented amended? So moved. Second. Uh Kleinhenz Starcher >> Yes. Goodright >> Yes. Nair Yes. And a motion to approve the minutes of the March 17th, 2026 regular session. So moved. Second. Uh Goodright Yes. >> Nair Yes. >> Starcher Yes. >> Kleinhenz >> Yes. All right, at this point
002we will transition into our student recognitions and we are going to start with Mr. Day recognizing the state bowling students. Good evening, everyone. Thank you to the board for the opportunity to recognize some more of our state qualifiers. So, tonight we have our girls bowling team with us and our coaching staff. Um they had a really special season, so I'm going to have Coach Line Decker talk about some of their accomplishments uh from this winter season. First of all, thank you for inviting us and recognizing our young ladies this season. Um we had a special season. We had a a 16 and 0 varsity record uh in the OCC, 12 and 0, we're OCC champs with many of our teams finishing all-tournament team. McKenzie Gentis, unfortunately, is not here this evening. She also was named
003the MVP. Uh we have a select few because many of our students are some are still competing in bowling in the off-season as well as in other sports, track, and um one is participating in a play, so she's unable to attend tonight. Three years ago four freshmen walked through the doors at Wayne Lanes and they wanted to learn everything they could about bowling. It didn't take long for me, cuz I've been doing this a long time, to realize that team was going to do something special. Added with the seniors and the freshmen that walked through the door this year, uh we experienced some devastation over the years and missing by just short 11 pins the first year, six pins the second year, which set a fire in these young ladies and they never stopped going
004forward. For the first time in program history, we took a team to state and we were top 16 of 208 varsity bowling Ohio girls teams, so it was QUITE A FEAT. >> [applause] >> I WOULD LIKE TO THANK THE GIRLS WHO entrusted the process because it it was devastating to watch teams move on and have to go home and go back to work, but they trusted what I said and and we began to work immediately after falling short and and continued to get better. The parents along with the to let me coach and the school administration and the support from the community was bar none from, you know, team dinners that we've never experienced before, overnight stays, um and just to be a part of those top 16 was hopefully a memory they'll never forget.
005I know it is for me, so um Again, some of our team is not here this evening. I wish we could all be here, but we really appreciate this recognization and thank you again. >> [applause] >> All right, thank you so much and again congratulations to um those young ladies and the coaches. At this point, we'll transition into Board of Education um student recognitions and we'll start with [clears throat] Mrs. Montgomery. Good evening, community members, members of the board. My name is Gabrielle Montgomery. I am the proud principal at Cornerstone Elementary. I have two incredible fourth-grade leaders to share with you this evening. Um the first I have with me is Thea Hill. She is um a fourth-grader in Mrs. Screamo's class. She is joined this evening by her mom and dad, Carrie and Ted,
006and her sister, Katie. If you would like to stand or wave to be recognized, thank you FOR BEING HERE. >> [applause] >> AND UH MRS. SCREAMO IS HERE TO SHARE Thea's nomination. So, first of all, these two girls are two peas in a pod, so we made sure that we could do two because it had to be both of them. They are never anywhere without each other. So, we had to make sure we did them both cuz they both are well deserving. Thea is one of the most creative and thoughtful students that I've ever worked with. She starts her morning doing anything she can to help all the teachers in the hallway. When she's done with all those random jobs that we give her, she sits down and is always found working on her very
007own fantasy book series that I think she could be done with, but she keeps editing and revising and she might never finish, but that's okay. It's wonderful. We will miss Thea when this year's over, but she is going to be doing amazing things at Edgewood. >> [applause] [applause] >> And we have Miss Madelyn McCreedy. Maddie is a true fourth-grade superstar. She comes to all of her classes every day with a positive attitude and she's always ready to work hard. Maddie is kind, thoughtful, and always willing to participate in class discussions. Without being asked, Maddie took initiative and she spends her mornings making sure that every pencil in the fourth-grade classrooms are sharpened. She never misses one. Cornerstone will also miss her voice next year on the morning announcements. Her teachers are so proud of her
008and we know she's going to do incredible things at Edgewood. >> [applause] [clears throat] >> Good evening, everyone. I'm Darren Nash, the principal at Keen Elementary, and I'm excited to welcome two of our amazing students of the month. Um we have Oliver McGookey here with us and we have Mason as well, Mason Harley. Um Mrs. Jordan is uh Oliver's uh teacher and couldn't join us tonight, so I'll be reading his uh wonderful information tonight. Um but before we do that, if we can recognize his parents, where are they at? Could you wave over there? THANK YOU. [applause] TODAY, WE HAVE THE HONOR OF RECOGNIZING A truly special student, Oliver McGookey. Oliver is the kind of student every teacher hopes for and every classroom needs. From the very first day, he has shown us what it
009means to be a leader, not by telling others what to do, but by quietly and consistently doing the right thing. Oliver leads with his actions. He comes to school ready to learn, gives his best effort, and never gives up, even when something feels challenging. When others may feel unsure, they look to Oliver and see exactly what it looks like to try their best and keep going. Oliver reminds all of us that leadership isn't about being in charge, it's about setting a positive example, showing kindness, and making the people around you better. But what makes Oliver stand out even more is his heart. Oliver is the is kind in a way that truly matters. He notices when someone needs help and without question lends a helping hand. He includes others while he is working in the
010classroom and when he is playing outside at recess, he treats everyone with respect and care and is always setting a positive example. Oliver is a student who doesn't look for attention or praise, but instead he simply does what is right because that is what that is who he is. That is what makes him such an incredible leader. Oliver, we are so proud of the choices you make each day. You're a role model to your classmates and you inspire inspire all of us to be better. It has been such a pleasure to be your teacher this year and I cannot wait to see what amazing things you accomplish in the future. So, congratulations, Oliver. >> [applause] [applause] >> So, next we'll recognize Mason Harley. Um but before we recognize her, if we can have her mom
011and her brother wave to us. Dad's out of town tonight. SO, >> [applause] >> THANK YOU. WE'LL NOW TURN THE TIME OVER TO MRS. FULLER. All right, you know you um reach a certain age and you start becoming real forgetful. That's me. So, you need to get you a personal secretary like this girl is for me. Um before I even know I need something I'm sorry. Before I even know that I need something, she's already there asking to see if she can take care of it for me. Mason is the same for her classmates. She's always there to help in any way that she can. Need help finding a page in your math book? She's on it. Need help cleaning something up? She's got it. Not only is she reliable, but she is respectful and
012organized. She adds to our classroom discussions and is always on task. I'm not sure I've ever even seen Mason in a bad mood. She always has a smile on her face and she is literally the sunshine of our classroom. Usually she comes bearing crafty gifts that she's made not only for me, but for her classmates as well. And um she's basically become a trendsetter with those because she started off making um rubber band bracelets for her friends and bringing them to school. And then soon um everybody wanted to make them and they quickly started talking their parents into buying them rubber bands. And then they became all kinds of things that they would play together. You would be surprised what you can make from rubber bands. It's been um a football, a gaga ball pit,
013a jump rope, decorations, gifts. Um Outside of school, she um loves trucking with her dad, going to truck shows with her grandpa, riding her dirt bike and ATV, playing with her brother and her dog, getting her nails done by mom, going to gymnastics with her friends. She's just the most round well-rounded kid that you could meet. And um that's why I um have the privilege of introducing you to her tonight. >> [applause] [applause] >> Good evening. My name is Jamie Tucker. I'm the principal of Melrose Elementary. I have two students to share with you today. First, we have fourth grader Sarah Taylor, who's here with mom Catherine and sister. If you want to wave to be recognized. >> [applause] >> And I'm going to invite Mrs. Parker to read her nomination. Good evening. All right,
014I just wanted to say that Sarah is a thoughtful and compassionate student who consistently has a positive atmos brings a positive atmosphere to the classroom. I've had the pleasure of working with her for 2 years and during that time she has continually impressed me with her kindness and character. She takes the time to connect with others, often asking how my day is or sharing a great book recommendation, which reflects her genuine care for those around her. Sarah demonstrates responsibility and dedication by always completing her work on time and with care. She approaches challenges with an enthusiasm and a growth mindset, never shying away from opportunities to learn and improve. Her love of reading and her fondness for cats adds to her warm and engaging personality, making her a joy to have in class. THANK YOU,
015SARAH. >> [applause] >> OUR NEXT STUDENT IS KENZIE GRASSMYER. Kenzie's here tonight with um parents Matthew and Lindsey, as well as sister and brothers. If you'd like to wave TO BE RECOGNIZED. >> [applause] >> AND I'M GOING TO HAVE MRS. LEWIS COME up and read her nomination for Kenzie. Good evening. Um I'm proud to recognize Kenzie this year for being an exceptional leader in our classroom. She demonstrates kindness and compassion in her daily interactions with others, setting a great example for her peers in our class. Um Kenzie's leadership is characterized by her thoughtful and selfless actions. She can often be seen proactively offering assistance to her classmates, whether it's by sharing her supplies when her classmates can't find theirs or offering words of encouragement when someone maybe down or at having a task a hard
016time completing a task, she offers words of encouragement to help them through it. Her kindness towards others have a positive impact in our classroom community. Kenzie is also dedicated also a dedicated and engaged learner. She is a student I can consistently count on to be an active participant throughout our instructional day. It's been a joy to have Kenzie in my classroom this year. I'm so proud of her leadership and all that she has accomplished this year in kindergarten. Nice job. >> [applause] [applause] >> GOOD EVENING, EVERYONE. MY NAME IS KATIE ROTH AND I'm the principal of Park View Elementary. Um I am so excited to share two of our outstanding students with you. The first is our third grade student Clinton Masters. Clinton is joined by his family. If you'd like to wave TO BE
017RECOGNIZED. >> [applause] >> CLINTON'S TEACHER MISS YULE WAS unable to make it tonight. So, I have um his nomination that I will read for you. She said, "Clinton is a student who consistently shows up prepared to learn and give his best effort. One of his most admirable qualities is his perseverance, a trait that is increasingly rare and incredibly valuable. When he encounters a challenge, Clinton doesn't shy away. Instead, he reflect pauses, reflects, and thoughtfully prepares before facing it head-on with confidence and grace. Beyond his determination, Clinton is also genuinely kind and a compassionate individual. He makes a point to check in on his peers, offering support and encouragement whenever it's needed. His positive presence creates a welcoming environment for everyone around him. Clinton isn't just a good student, he's a friend to all and a
018role model for what it means to approach both learning and life with integrity, resilience, and heart. I am so proud of you, Clinton. Keep up your amazing work." >> [applause] >> Our second nomination is Brylan Brazer. She is a fourth grade student and she is joined by her family. If you'd like to wave to be recognized. >> [applause] >> UM AND I HAVE MISS Cornelius here to share Brylan's nomination. Brylan was nominated for Board of Education Student of the of the Month because of the way she models and lives being a positive Leader in Me student at Park View. Brylan is a compassionate and kind person. She's extremely observant when others are having a rough time and is very willing to try to comfort them. I think that she understands what it feels like to
019be frustrated, so she makes it her mission to help others during their times of need. Thanks for making the classroom a safer place. Brylan also works hard and doesn't give up. If she isn't sure about something taught during a lesson, she'll ask questions. I'm very proud of the effort she has been putting into her school work this year and I hope she is as proud of herself as I am of her. Brylan has grown so much academically, socially, and emotionally since I first had the privilege of being her teacher in the fall of 2024. After having Brylan in my homeroom for the past 2 years, it will be especially hard for me to see her move up and move on to Edgewood next year. But I look forward to hearing about her future successes because
020I know there will be many. >> [applause] >> Good evening. I am Jeff [clears throat] Spitler. I'm the Dean of Students at Edgewood Middle School. Uh Mrs. Haas couldn't be here today. Uh so I'm going to introduce two amazing sixth-grade students to everyone. First, we have Alec Fire Robin. And he's here with his family. If you could please raise your hand TO BE RECOGNIZED. [applause] MRS. TOMASETTI IS HERE to present him. All right. Alec is an incredibly hard-working individual who consistently puts forth his best effort in everything he does. He approaches challenges with determination and perseverance, never giving up even when things get difficult. Alec is also always uplifting to those around him, bringing encouragement and positivity into any environment. He's not afraid to step outside his comfort zone during any math debate, even if
021it seems to be an uphill battle. With his great attitude and strong work ethic, Alec sets a powerful example of resilience and kindness for others to follow. WELL DONE, ALEC. >> [applause] >> NEXT, WE HAVE EMMA MAST. SHE IS HERE with her family. If you could raise your hands AND BE RECOGNIZED. >> [applause] >> MRS. TOMASETTI WILL DO THE SAME THING. All right. Emma is truly an exceptional student who consistently demonstrates dedication and perseverance in everything she does. She works incredibly hard, always putting in the time and effort needed to understand, even if the material is challenging. Along the way, Emma has faced and overcome obstacles with resilience and determination, never letting setbacks hold her back. She also brings a consistently positive attitude to every single situation, encouraging those around her and approaching challenges with
022optimism. Her commitment to growth and uplifting mindset make her not only a strong learner, but also an inspiring example to others. >> [applause] [snorts] >> Good evening, everyone. My name is Margaret Davis. I'm the principal at Webster High School. Very excited to introduce our two students for you. The first is Sarah Llewellyn. She's joined by her family all the way in the back. If you guys want to give a wave to be recognized. [applause] And here to say a few words about her is her social studies teacher, Miss Tibbets. I've had the pleasure to teach Sarah twice so far in her four years at the high school, first in ninth grade honors world studies and then 12th grade sociology. Um I can see a confidence in her now that you couldn't see as a freshman.
023So I've got the pleasure to see her grow up and she has a quiet confidence now. Um this confidence wasn't by accident. She works really, really hard. And you can see that in her classes and she demonstrates a terrific work ethic that'll take her really far into the future. She is respectful to her peers and always demonstrates positive attitude. It is for these reasons and many more that I nominated her for our RISE Student of the Month. And we're here tonight because the faculty and staff at Webster High School agreed with me. So congratulations, Sarah, and good luck after graduation in all you do. >> [applause] >> Our second student of the month is Aiden Heiner, who was supposed to be able to be here, but the start time of tennis got pushed back, so
024he's playing tennis currently. Um his science teacher, Mrs. Salvage, nominated him and couldn't be here, so I will read a few words about Aiden. Aiden is a bright, charismatic student who Shelley has the pleasure of teaching in both chemistry and botany. He embodies every aspect of RISE on a daily basis. His engagement in the greenhouse is truly exceptional. From the moment we enter until the final bell rings, Aiden is diligent. Whether he's hauling bales of soil, potting, transplanting, or cleaning up, he's always happy to help. He's a role model whose positive energy encourages his peers to be more productive and do their best. For those reasons and many more, it is our pleasure to present Aiden to you as the Webster High School Student OF THE MONTH. >> [applause] >> ALL RIGHT. SO FIRST OFF,
025UM just a thank you to Panera Bread. They do donate uh gift cards to all the students of the month. So thank you to them and then thank you to each of you for being here and all you do to support our students. It's always great to hear all the amazing things they're doing and their strong character. So at this point we're going to transition to the business portion of the meeting. We're going to take about a 5-minute break. So if you would like to leave, um that is okay. Thank you so much for being here. All right. At this point uh in the meeting we're going to go to section three reports and we are going to have a report uh from the Director of Instruction and Curriculum, um Molly Richard and the Student
026Services Director Diana McMillan. And they're going to present on the 2026-2029 District One Plan through Ed Steps. The One Plan is a systemic uh consolidated planning tool strategically aligned to funding resources and focused on improving outcomes for all students. That's a mouthful. >> [laughter] >> Thank you for having us. So yes, we are we're going to present on the One Plan um that we have to put forth the board, but also we have to put out for public um comment. So it will be we'll talk through that, but it both of those options have to happen um it's a state requirement. So that's is what we're You did a much better job of introducing it. I had help. So the first thing that we want to talk through is um the work that goes behind
027and and behind the scenes and working through uh all of the changes and implementing putting it together and really working together as a team. So we have a DLT, which is our District Leadership Team. Um we are currently working to finish our last three-year plan while we simultaneously are working on creating the new one. So that happens and that's the way that the state um requires that we do that. So we have we meet quarterly and this is the team um if you want to read through that, but they are members we have members from every building and then we try to get a variety of of staff members. So we have um like like for example, Tyler Egley, who is a school counselor. We have an IS on there. We have math. We have
028just recently added um Kate Olson from the high school cuz we really felt that we needed an ELA representation from the high school for multiple different reasons. Um and they are are it's really truly a great team and they've worked really hard. We in the last um 6 year 5 years Diana and I have worked together with a with a DLT to kind of change and and really give teachers a voice and um it's it's been neat to watch. Um so throughout the their time on the DLT, they have they work on a specific goal group and so we break down and and you'll hear from us that the our next set of goals will be attendance, math, and literacy. So we divide out into those um groups and kind of work together to work
029through the action steps that you'll see. Um the platform that we use is EdSteps. That's through the Department of Education Workforce. Um in '21 all LEAs uh were required to use the tiered um plan or use the system or platform for the tiered plans um that we have to submit um as required by the state. Uh we do a One Needs Assessment um to determine what uh goal areas we need to identify and and work through um and then that leads into our One Plan and that's done every 3 years. Um it's required to receive federal funding, so it's all connected in that way and it um the last time we had to submit our applications through EdSteps, the system wasn't ready and kind of crashed and we had to revert back and we're hoping
030that everything is working this year because all of our One Plans um are going in and then our federal funding um applications as well. So we're hopeful that the system can sustain um all of the applications this year. Um but there are required and recommended um district selected items and we get input from all stakeholders. So that comes from students, staff, parents, and community members. Um I mentioned the One Needs Assessment and that's a first step and really what we go through is we um use rubrics to identify um our areas of need and then we prioritize those because as um as you know, there are more than you know, three areas that we would need to work on as a school district, but we have to determine which ones um we need to focus
031on um primarily. And so we do a root cause analysis to determine uh why it could be an issue and then problem solve on how to um kind of resolve those issues or work towards increasing our goals or our metrics. Um the DLT helps develop the district's 3-year um One Plan. So we all work on that collectively. We've been working through the One Plan for months now, actually. Um the One Plan is how we actually get our federal funding. So we submit it to the state, we link the funding sources, and funding streams to um the different um components of the One Plan, and then the state releases dollars to us to uh work through those. So by integrating the One Plan, um we also are connected pretty tightly with the strategic plan that the
032district is developing. That's something that we're currently working on and that will be finalized um I think this summer. And so um the One Plan is what is required by the state and the strategic plan is kind of the more user-friendly document that um maybe a little more easily um spells out what we're doing as a district, but they are very tightly connected. Um as Molly mentioned, we had three areas that we worked through um in this past One Plan and we have three areas again. Um attendance, literacy, and math. Literacy and math were required by the state and so we didn't really have an option there. Um our our DLT agreed that those were areas that we need to work on, so that wasn't a surprise for us, but um attendance was then the
033other area that we selected. We There is a list that you have to choose from, so it can't just be anything, but attendance seemed to hit some of the components that through our root cause analysis and our um One Needs Assessments that we felt could address some of our needs. Um and then there was a consensus by all of our DLT members to proceed with those goals. When you're looking at the One Plan and then viewing it for a public comment, we always follow the same format. So you'll start with a root cause analysis and then we move into smart goals, um student measures, and then adult implementation measures. And those are really what the DLT digs into as when we're working on the adult implementation measures and and working through that as a team
034and then our strategic and action steps. Um this is an example of what our plan looks like. Um So you'll see always in the same order and each goal is listed one after another. Um there are many more steps than we're showing you right here um for and then it is split into action steps year one, year two, and year three. Um and we've worked really closely um with Brian Berdine and and Charles, the union members, to make sure that our um DLT members can stay now for 3 years because of the change in that so that we have consistency. Um so I think that will really help us as a DLT continue to work together. Um so each of the goals areas that we have has the same format that you're seeing right there.
035And then we also in addition each building has their building One Plans. Um they still follow the same they link to our district plan. Um they follow the same format, but there's a few different metrics that are specific to the schools. Um for example, for our attendance, um Keene's attendance is lower than the district average right now, so they want to maintain um their lower um students that are missing school. So um Cornerstone's is a little higher, so they have a little different um percentage in their specific building plan. Um and then we work through just, you know, Cornerstone has four reading teachers that we're working with, so we have a little more um options for um intervention. So we just allow each of those buildings and they all had input in that as well.
036So um when she talks about there everyone was allowed and able to um participate and and give feedback even if you were not on the DLT. As far as future steps, we as Molly mentioned are required to have an opportunity for public comment. So tomorrow um there will be a link for um a survey to provide that public comment um on the website that's um going to be on the district page and on all the building pages and it's just as a news story. So I think Alex said if you scroll down um to find the news stories, that should probably be the first one that um comes to the top tomorrow. Um communication will also be sent out on Parent Square so that we can um reach as many people as we can to
037um get the the plan in front of them. Um next steps then would be um that Mr. Tutor and Mrs. Welty have to approve our plan um and then we would submit that final draft to the state that's due by the end of the month and then the state approves it and then we start implementing next year. As Molly said, we're wrapping up um this current One Plan this year and then if all goes as planned and we get to um proceed with this plan, we'll hit the ground running starting next school year. One other thing to mention is it is also connected with our literacy grant. So if you remember last year um we presented and talked about that we had we had a word we were awarded a pretty big literacy grant, so
038that is also part of what we'll fund when we pick funding sources. We chose the literacy grant for some of those options as well. Um so the resources, this is what you'll look for when you um look on the website. So we'll have our district One Plan um linked on there the in in full um and then there will be also an additional um EdSteps information if anyone is interested in that and then the link to the Google form. It's super short, um but we would we would really appreciate any public comment that we can get. Questions? Well, no, I was just going to say thank you to um both Molly and Diana, but also for the um the entire DLT team. Um they've really done a great job of doing this with fidelity. Um
039I mean it is a requirement of the state and it ensures our federal and state funding, but it also um you know, how you do something matters and we've done a really great job with it. You know, you you you um you heard them mention that it's going to align with the strategic plan. You know, the strategic plan is more than just academics, but kind of our instructional pieces of the strategic plan will be aligned with this. So what, you know, we try not to confuse the community. You know, in the end it we will really focus on our strategic plan, but these are intertwined throughout it. So and we really did see success in the last one and I think it really even showed in some of our scores and some of the um
040you know, activities that we did or instructional strategies that we used [music] throughout the district. So thanks so much, guys. I did have one question. So you said that math and literacy were required. Was that Is that district specific or was that required across the state for That was required across the state. You might have said that and I missed No, we didn't. >> Yeah. Okay. So on the 80% um for the literacy and the math goals, is that something you created or is that something they gave you? That is something we created. Okay. Okay, so it's the same for both math and literacy, but I wasn't sure if they dictated that to you or >> No. It is a state recommendation and so we were recommended to use that percentage. Um you know, you
041see the state wanting us to get to 100% um and so that's [clears throat] kind of the vantage point that we were recommended to use. Are realistic? We're going to work really hard to try to get there. >> Okay. It depends on the grade band. Don't like it when they mandate unreachable goals cuz then it's hard to get there. That's the goal. >> talked a lot about that in the in the district leadership team um and went back and forth a little bit and um I mean our goal is always for every student to to grow and make it one lap around the track. Um so we're we're hoping for a lot of growth and then we'll track it just like we usually do. Man, this has been going on forever. The attendance is also
042a new mandate that um they're eventually moving to a very small percentage. That that I think is a little more unrealistic. That was good work though. Uh the team the whole district leadership team is Yeah. really helpful. So this will be open for public comment tomorrow and then you just have to submit it by April 30th, is that right? So about a week [clears throat] About a week? Okay, very good. Thank you. Thank you. Does anybody else have anything? All right, thank you very much. Appreciate it. >> All right, um uh transitioning to section four, uh public participation on agenda items. Not on the agenda items. Okay, we do not have anything tonight on that. So uh moving to section five, uh can the consent agenda for the treasurer. Can I please get a motion
043to approve the consent agenda? So moved. Second. Um thank you. So tonight I have the financial report for month end uh March 31st, 2026. And um it it does seem a little bit off more than usual. Um if you remember last month you approved the resolution to move um over 23 million from the capital projects fund back into the general fund. And so we're showing revenue you know, reflecting that. I will be bringing an updated forecast to you next month even though it's not a requirement that I file Mr. Tutor and I feel like um it's it's a good idea to file another updated forecast reflecting this. So I will be bringing that to you in uh at the May meeting. Um so still um you know, state revenue is still fluctuating a little bit.
044It's under what we expect as well as our local taxes and reimbursements. We did get a reimbursement this month, so I'm hoping that this is going to level out um and it's it's a timing issue. As as far as our expenditures we are um continuing to be favorable in that regard. Again, purchased services, um we are saving some money there. You know, that that can change very quickly just dependent on uh placements for students if we might get um some late ones. So we'll see you know, how that lands um since right now we only have three months of um you know, estimated expenditures at this point. So um trending um favorable really um in in all regards. As far as donations this month, we have a lot, which is um great to see the
045community's support. Generals Closet, uh girls lacrosse team, volleyball team, a lot of donations to the class of 2027 as they're preparing for the prom. So that is is great to see. Uh I also have for you tonight our application for student accident coverage. This is something I bring to you every year to provide families the opportunity to participate in student accident coverage. Um and then also um our workers compensation um retrospective rating program. This is done through Sedgwick. So this is how um you know, we get the support for our workers compensation program. So bringing that um um contract to you um this evening. Typical increase, not much. Probably a couple hundred dollars from from last year. Um and and and that's typical. And then the last thing I have for you is our e-rate
046consulting services for category one. Um again, this is um a contract that we bring for you every year for participation in our e-rate program. And that is my consent agenda. Questions? Comments? Uh Goodright? Yes. Nayer? Yes. Starcher? Yes. Kleinhans? Yes. All right, transitioning to section six, new business. Uh motion please for the consent agenda for the superintendent. So moved. Second. All right, thank you everybody. Uh go through staffing first here. So uh we have um a few resignations and retirements. Um some of those uh for some exciting things like maybe new family members or some retiring obviously to um kind of the what they've much deserved Um but some hard um positions in terms of filling really just because of the legacy some will have left there. Um you know, Mrs. Ice comes to mind
047there. She's uh worked at Cornerstone for a long time. Also worked in our before and after uh care program for uh several years. And so um sad to see her go. Um although she says she might sub for us at some point. So I like that. Um so congratulations to to those and we wish everybody well. Um on the uh personnel side, um uh first in terms of certified contract renewals, this is the month that you'll see all of the certified uh renewals. So depending on how long they've been here, uh they could be getting a one-year renewal, a two-year or a three. And then there is also a process within state law and our collective bargaining agreement that you can apply for continuing contract or what people might refer to as tenure. And so
048you'll see that list. So if you don't see a uh a name of a staff member there, it's because they're in the middle of a contract um one, two or three or they already have continuing contract, okay? Uh and next month is when we will do the same thing for the administrators that we have. There'll be some a few administrators up for renewal uh and then there'll be others that won't be on there. Uh three new hires. Uh Cindy Williams is technically not a new hire. She's been a great uh um Title I teacher in reading at Cornerstone for us for many years. She moved over to Melrose last year in a um uh in a in a sub role and she is now going to be officially the reading teacher at Melrose. Um we
049have Jessica Erickson uh coming to us from Medina and their Evolve campus. Uh will be an intervention specialist for at Edgewood. And we have Andrea McGrath who is here tonight and we appreciate her coming. Um Andrea will be a new fourth grade teacher at Parkview uh and is somewhat new to the area um or at least back to the area. As well as her husband works at the college. So uh excited to have them. >> [applause] >> On our classified side uh just one retirement is that Mary Salmons at Keen uh will be retiring at the end of May after she worked here for several years, but she's also worked at Mansfield and a couple other school districts. So a full career in education. Uh and then some uh classified employment um specialized para, one
050on the one on the bus and one in the classroom there at Wooster as these are uh replacement jobs, not new new additions. Um also kind of housekeeping for the year is this is when you would non-renew all supplementals. That sounds negative, but it's not. Every all supplemental contracts are one-year contracts. So they are just non-renewed officially and then literally in most cases the same people will be filling them next year um as you know, they don't have to, but they can, but they're all one year. So that's procedural. Um couple overnight trips uh middle school both because of uh the the great success that our teams have had. Um middle school speech and debate had some kids qualify for the national tournament in Richmond, Virginia. Um so that is on here. Congratulations to them.
051And our middle school academic challenge team um qualified for the national tournament in Chicago. Um due to great fundraising from these organizations, these will be uh paid for through the um through the through the club accounts that that they have as they were hoping and preparing for for these things to have uh you know, to solidify that they would be able to go. Uh overnight camp for football um uh in July. It's kind of their team building thing to get started for the season as as they get uh gearing up for that. Um then a couple of contracts. So Leader in Me, that is our PBIS program we've used at the elementaries for many years. Uh again, going back to if we're going to do something, we want to do it with fidelity and we
052really do our Leader in Me program very well uh at our elementary schools. At this point now all four of our elementaries are lighthouse schools, uh which is quite a designation to get. Um and uh I think last time I checked there was only about 20 total in the state of Ohio that have that. Um this quote is for our continued use of that program and the necessary training. Um the good news though is at this point because we have been using Leader in Me for a long time um and we are pretty well equipped at all four of our elementary schools, we don't need quite as many training days and things like that from Franklin Covey. Uh so uh the proposal here um is about $20,000 less per year um than it was in
053the past just because at this point um we we always want to get better, but we don't need quite the onboarding that we did before because it's so familiar with all four of our buildings. 180, uh um MOU that we approve every year uh really does a few things for us. There there's a mentoring group that 180 provides at the high school for free. Um it also uh we do a youth assessment every other year for them that helps really give um data not just for us and them, but really a variety of organizations throughout the county to kind of best figure out um where you know, dollars should go for support. Um and also we use 180 for our drug testing. Uh we use it for the few drug testing that we do. And
054I wouldn't call them punitive that maybe I set up through um you know, individuals that might come to me for uh you know, expulsion hearings and things like that. We also do it for our like our drug-free club with Stan. So, you can sign up for that and if you're willing to be tested, you you know, you get a free pass in for athletics and some other incentives. So, we use it for all of those different things. So, again, 180 another one of our great partners here that we have locally. Then going into our well, a couple more special education leap. We use leap for a few of our students behaviorally go to the campus in Rittman each year that is an IEP team decision. So, that is their contract and LL elf LLA therapy
055does mainly speech for us and they do residential placement. So, students that are technically ours but are are not in our school district that needs speech support LLA will provide that for them. And Christian Children's Home that's reflecting a student that moved in that is currently attending there and so that's the agreement for the rest of the year. Moving from there, we go into our our policy update as we do two policy we can do a policy update at any time but we do two policy updates a year typically through our Neola which is the representative or the support group that helps us the legal team that you know, provides recommendations and then we can tweak some things with it if we would like but a lot of the updates are typically you know, state
056required and things like that. Try to highlight just a few things. The first thing I will say is these are first reads. So, with policy we always do two. So, tonight yes, vote on the consent agenda does not put them into effect. It would be the second and final reading when that would happen. So, just a couple things that that the NIL policy that is in response to the vote through well, it started through a legal process and then OHSAA reflected that and created an NIL referendum that was voted on by schools. It was passed by the majority. So, there now is NIL within the state of Ohio which really just means that high school students there are some parameters but they can you know, have a financial gain based on using their name, image
057or likeness. And so that policy reflects kind of what the OSAA has said and how that's supposed to work and how it can't work. There's several in here that are job related expenses or just things related like use of credit card and it really is a really simple thing but a lot of times when people go to conferences and other things, they have to use their own credit cards and then they're reimbursed out of this through our you know, purchasing requisition process. All of that is approved ahead of time and obviously it's only for things that they're allowed to be reimbursed for. Well, the the caveat to that is is that you know, you couldn't help if if you have to be reimbursed and you have a credit card that gives you points, technically you're
058getting points for that and this you know, the state has said the the auditor has said that's actually okay as long as you put that in our policy. By no means does any of our people you know, really get great benefit from points or anything like that but it in order to do that from an ethics standpoint, you actually have to have it in policy. And so it just kind of allows for that to happen. Nothing you can't do. There's several policies on here that reflect that. You can't do anything that would like say, oh, I'd like to go to this hotel because I get points here even though that's not the lowest price, right? Like you can't do anything like that on that. So, several on that. You couldn't use You [clears throat] couldn't
059use their credit card to book five rooms and then collect those points either. Correct. Correct. Only only yours that's specifically for you know, the the conference that you've been approved for and went through the process. Other things we have on here the the grading system is really just reflecting that now with the merit scholarship, we have to have certain things aligned as the the governor's merit scholarship is a part of that and then we deleted a lot of the information that at this point has grandfathered out. So, because when the the policy was last revised, there were students that were in high school that would have been impacted. So, at this point we're past the class of 2022. So, we took out all of that information. Artificial intelligence we have we have always had well,
060not always. We've had a policy for artificial intelligence at the last few years as but it's been fairly vague as most were because it's been such a moving target. It's still a moving target but as I'm going to explain in my regular agenda, you know, we've done some great task force work led by Mr. Gary. We have more of a guideline approach and so there was recommendations to put some more meat on those policies and so that's what we've done there. It's still really all about obviously student privacy owning your learning and the content and using it in in a safe manner. And food service is literally that we are not able to sell meat that's not meat. So, [laughter] and I don't mean that facetiously. I mean that like if there is meat that
061is you know, if it was made in a lab or something like that, I want to be able to make it clear. We're not selling that anyway but by law you have to put that in your policy. So, that's that's why that has been reflected, okay? Doesn't change anything we're doing at the high school or any of the schools at all. So, that's my consent agenda. Happy to answer any questions you can for you. Joy, I know you're on the policy committee. Anything not to put you on the spot but anything that you want to add? I appreciate going and understanding everything that we do and you know, I'm always reminded how complex things are and how much there is to consider you know, when you're buying pencils. It's just fascinating and Gabe referred to
062it. So, I'll say without having reviewed yet but I just want to applaud the work on AI because it allowed us to kind of be prepared when this happened to come up and so I'll just add that. I think that's outstanding that we're ahead of the curve. We're thinking about what we're doing. We continue to be organized about what we're doing and so that's I guess my comment on thank you for this. The only thing is is Lighthouse part of the company company? Yes. Okay. It's actually Leader in Me is a a you know, an aspect of their company. Right. But Lighthouse is going to go over that or Yes. Lighthouse is kind of like the top award you can get for the elementary. Goodright Yes. Starcher Yes. Kleinhenz >> Yes. Nair Yes. Welcome, Mrs.
063McGrath. Moving to section seven the regular agenda for the treasurer a motion to approve the then and now certificates as recommended, please. So moved. Second. So, I have one then and now certificate for your approval tonight and this is purchase order for the music parents. They run our concession stand program. They buy everything for all of the athletic events and then we collect the revenue. So, we pay them for the cost of goods sold. So, the one that we had in place ran out. So, we needed a second one but got an invoice before we had it in place. So. Not actually a cost for us. >> It is not a cost for us. No. Okay. In and out. In and out. Do they do all of the all of the sports? Okay. So, when
064you say baseball Yep. Across softball Well, they they organize it. Let me I'm sorry. Let me clear but the team different teams will volunteer to help and then that team gets a percentage of their organizing Yes. But they're organizing it. Yes, just others volunteer. Yes. Help run it and then they get some revenue That's correct. That's correct. Okay. Kleinhenz Yes. Starcher Yes. Goodright Yes. Nair Yes. All right. The regular agenda for the superintendent section 8.01 a motion to approve the certified contract renewal for the 2026-2027 school year for Jessica Anderson. So moved. Second. Just so that Mr. Goodright could could vote on the rest of the consent agenda. That's the only reason that this is separated or Mrs. Anderson would have been on our consent agenda where her new contract would have been. Yes, she's
065a relative of Mr. Goodright. Okay. Nair Yes. Goodright Abstain. Starcher Yes. Kleinhenz Yes. 8.02 a motion to approve the Wooster City School District artificial intelligent guidelines. So moved. Second. So, I really again praising Mr. Gary and also the committee. So, we had a committee that met several times throughout the year. It was voluntary but we had several staff members participate. We had a secondary one that would meet and then directly after an elementary would and it really was a discussion both on how students should use AI and also how teachers should should use AI. And you know, and out of this also led to the recommendation that you guys approved I think a month ago for the magic school AI platform that would be our primary AI tool that we would use in grades you
066know, pre-K through 12. Um maybe not pre-K. Not sure they'll use AI but I mean could be at some point, right? >> [laughter] >> It's coming soon. >> Yeah. So, I would just I'm going to summarize this and we actually we actually I I this was so cool. Mr. Uh Mr. Gary had uh students come uh as well and give feedback. They were high school students um but give feedback on how how to use AI and and their kind of thought process on it is as really the the balance and this is what this is all It's just a framework. It's not perfect. It's we'll have to continue to evaluate it as AI continues to change. But it's it's the balance of helping our students um learn how to use a tool that they will
067need to use in their lives um and allowing our teachers to improve their effectiveness using these tools but not taking away the ownership that is the teaching and learning. And it's that balance and that's really what you know this this is all about is trying to do that. Overall up until the really you know junior senior year, you're you're primarily going to see um AI utilized um through the Magic School platform. Um not that juniors and seniors won't use it as well um but we did have some discussion about as students are starting to move into uh you know post-secondary type work you know Magic School's probably not what they're going to use in college. So we also will do some integration appropriately per teacher request and you know the more common ones Gemini chat
068GPT things like that. So uh again great work by the committee. Our goal and then really this helped us define the AI policy. Uh if approved tonight we'll put this on our website um so they can be easily referred to as as you know and it'll be also something we'll review every year. Why are we voting on that? Um we just we we felt like it would be um it's not required. We just felt like maybe it would be a good thing to since we're going to put it on our website in that way. Um that was kind of why we we talked about it. It's not a requirement too. Um but we thought well we want to bring it to you to the show so that's kind of why we did it. Like the
069brisk teaching so and it I mean it how it shows students revision history and kind of shifting from some reading here but catching the AI cheating to understand the students' actual writing process. It seems like a great a great tool for teachers. It was really good. Yeah. Yeah, they did a really good job. >> Really good. Yeah. Mhm. That was good work. Was that a committee or It was a committee. Yes, definitely but uh and they had great discussion. Mr. Gary led those discussions. >> Outstanding. So. I'm going to I agree it's fantastic. I love the guiding principles. I love that we're discussing it. I mean, you know, even if you don't care about news or current events, there's no way to not understand how significant it is right now. And so I'm so happy
070we're discussing it and thinking about it. I think I agree Rick, it's outstanding. Lots of good conversation and for us as adults and then of course for the students. So thank you. Thank you. >> four years ago nobody had an AI policy. Now we have a policy and a guideline and that's a and that's really thorough. I mean that was that's a lot though. >> correct. Very thorough very well done. Thinking about all the different aspects. Any other thoughts or comments? Uh Goodright? >> Yes. >> Starcher? Yes. >> Nair? Yes. >> Kleinhenz? >> Yes. All right, we do not have any new business or old business so we'll move into public participation on non-agenda items. Our first one is from Barb Freit off, 4457 Wood Lake Trail. Trying to figure out if the type is
071big enough to do without my glasses. So this is really a public service announcement for any of the audience tonight. The Committee to Abolish Property Taxes or ACTS Ohio Tax is a grassroots organization campaigning for a state constitutional amendment to be placed on the November 2026 ballot to completely remove property tax in Ohio. You may have seen or will begin to see people collecting petition signatures locally. Please know that signing this petition is not at all in the best interest of our community. This petition would permanently ban property taxes in Ohio if it passes. While it's being promoted as tax relief, the impact on schools and communities would be severe. Local property taxes are the largest source of local school funding in Ohio and account for over 60% of the revenue for Wooster City Schools.
072This funding pays for teachers, support staff, classroom supplies, building operations, and student programs. And eliminating that revenue with no credible replacement plan would be devastating. This threat comes as the state continues to shrink its share of school funding. Since 1997, the state has dropped its contribution to public schools from about 44% to 32% with current proposals to cut it even further. While private school vouchers totaling in the billions of dollars from the same budget line continue to be awarded. ACTS Ohio Tax would eliminate a revenue source, property taxes, that our community has been forced to depend on without any plan for what comes next. In addition, remember that property taxes also fund libraries, fire and EMS services, counties, and townships. Eliminating them would cost the state approximately 24 billion dollars annually in lost revenue with
073no realistic way for the state to replace that funding. So please don't sign your name to the ACTS Ohio Tax petition and please help educate your friends and family. While reform of property tax may be necessary, eliminating it now is not the answer. Thank you. Thank you. The next one is Ted Hill, 735 Bell Avenue. I have some comments in the facility work session earlier this month. First, I would like to thank the board for openly discussing these future plans before a vote. Second, I want to praise the board for considering community feedback. I think it is important to look at what the board has chosen not to do. It chose not to bring a levy in the spring and only considered going to voters in November. It chose not to bring a levy at
074all. It chose not to bypass voters with this cop loan. I believe the board is earnestly trying to rebuild community trust. Third, I have reservations both about leaving Cornerstone and the use of so many modular classrooms. I appreciate that the board would engage Wooster Growth rather than the highest bidder sale. My concern is the removal of yet another critical neighborhood school location. As to modulars, I understand these are not the trailers I grew up with at Edgewood and that Keen has not received many complaints. I worry about placing so many of our children in these in these solutions that seem inherently less secure. If this must be the path forward, I would like to see more discussion particularly on modular placement and grades hosted. Good evening, board members. Gail Gutshall, 5278 Ashland Road, Wooster, Ohio.
075Thank you for the opportunity. Good evening. I'm here tonight in response to the board's announcement that you have decided to pursue with $7 million plus modular trailer project over maintaining our brick-and-mortar assets. Question. Out of curiosity, at what time after conducting the recent $29,000 survey did you hear from the community that they are in favor of educating their children in trailers? I attended two in-person surveys. Not one person mentioned anything about that. I'm wondering where the solution came from. I'm really wondering where the solution came from. Question for reflection. If safety is a real concern, how is a trailer able to maintain and withstand the increasing erratic weather patterns like tornadoes and straight-line winds? Also regarding safety, how is a trailer considered bulletproof safer than a brick-and-mortar structure? How is it considered more safe? Not
076once during the survey in-person survey did one person say anything about a trailer. If these are the voices of concern of the community, I didn't seem to hear them. It seems like in the past many decisions are made with minds already made up. It's my perception. Could be right, it could be wrong. But I'm not the only one with that perception. Please reconsider this approach of modular trailers. It reads as a punishment for the two previous failed levies and at best an expensive temporary band-aid. At what time after conducting a recent $29,000 survey did you hear from the community that they're in favor of educating our children in trailers? I didn't see that on the survey, the written survey that was passed out. If the children parents would be in favor of educating their children
077in trailers. Thank you for your time, considerations, and reflections. Thank you. Last one, Connie Stork, 2583 Taylor Street, Wooster, Ohio, 44691. Over the last few years, the school board has attempted two levies and proposed several options should the levies fail. The levies have failed and now you're proposing the closing of an elementary school and considering temporary trailers at the remaining elementary schools, which is the worst possible option for the students in the community. What is truly needed is a long-term solution. There are so many things wrong with the proposed plan. Aside from the purchase of the bare-bones trailers, there would be many additional costs to add even the most basic necessary equipment. Then there are the additional costs of sidewalks, fences, cameras, etc. What about safety issues? Our region is prone to tornadoes. Would you
078want your child in a trailer or outside running to get to a building with a possible tornado touching down? What about safe student security and safety which you have discussed as a major issue? Is a mere chain-link fence fence a deterrent to an intruder intent on causing harm? Are the trailers themselves bulletproof? If one school is closed, how are the three remaining elementary schools going to absorb the sudden jump in population with gyms and cafeterias already at peak loads? How will the heavier traffic patterns be addressed? Exactly who will be housed in the trailers? What about the aesthetics of the school properties? It will be much more difficult to attract new businesses to Wooster with trailers on the elementary school campuses. Trailers are an eyesore. There are options including adding to or repairing the permanent
079structures you have already have. These are long-term solutions better for both the students and the community. Thank you. Um so transitioning to comments and questions. So All right, spring sports are well underway and reaching the midpoint of the season. Tournament draws will be happening in the next couple of weeks. Wooster High School will hold its final collegiate signing day on Thursday, May 7th at 5:15 p.m. in the main gym. Anyone wanting to celebrate with our student athletes is welcome. Um Best Buddies is excited for their first combined event with Edgewood Best Buddies inclusive field day on May 13th. Buddy pairs will participate in walking, running, seated, or standing events at Follis Field. Additional peer members will be helpful leaders ensuring events run smoothly and helping participants navigate to the next event. Everyone will enjoy packed
080lunches and an award ceremony together. Um the GLC has its final meeting on Wednesday, May 20th. Um The drama club finished up their spring play with the fine arts festival last weekend. This play combined with the fall with the fall musical drew over 30,000 attendees. The group is thankful for these wonderful audiences and on May 11th, a cast member from the Broadway touring production of The Outsiders will be spending the afternoon with the drama club sharing their Broadway experience and working on vocal and acting techniques. They will close the season on Tuesday night, May 12th with the 88th annual Thespian induction and will be announcing the fall 2026 musical. Or 2020 Yeah, that would be 2026. Sorry, I was about to say 2027. Woo. Um science club's final meeting of the of the year will
081be Thursday, May 7th where they will be doing tie-dye and currently the student council is working on elections for upcoming officers and they recently did interviews for those political candidates and soon they will be able to campaign. And that's all I have. When you said the Thespian in Thespian induction ceremony. Is that May 12th? Is that what you said? Let me double check. Um yes, May 12th. They didn't He did not tell me the time, but he also said that a lot of the things that he sends because they were busy with the spring musical, a lot of the things weren't set in place. But he also is very happy. He said that in the end of his email, he's like, "If you want to include that, I will be very tired and I will
082need rest." Um I could include that, but I didn't. So Yeah, he They're I'm excited for them both, him and Mrs. Steiner to have a little break after the musical and stuff is over. Promised I don't I don't think you mentioned prom is coming up on the 9th. Yes. Very excited. My dress came in the mail today. >> [laughter] >> That is very exciting. Yes. What is the theme? Um Tangled up It's Tangled Up in Memories, which Tangled is my favorite movie and I was like, "This is meant to be. It's my senior year. This is wonderful." So lots to be excited about. Yeah. When are senior awards? Do you know? The week of gradua- No. The week that It's the week of graduation. >> I'm not sure if it's Thursday or Friday. I'd have
083to check. I think it's Thursday. Good thing. Appreciate the update. I enjoyed watching you paint Oh, you were at the fine arts festival, too? >> you. I didn't say anything to you. You were knee-deep in Oh, yeah. I get real locked in. I was painting live at the fine arts festival and so I got to see his client hit as well. It was wonderful. Yeah, thank you. >> have a um freshman on the girls team who now has a school record in the 100-meter hurdles, which is considering the longevity of the track program, I mean, that is pretty neat and she's real close to getting 100. Yeah. And she beat her own record after she broke the record. Yeah. Is this Teagan? That'd be kind of fun watching her next >> Okay, cuz she played
084volleyball. She's so athletic, my word. Yeah. I think our baseball team and softball teams are both doing really well. >> Yeah. Everybody's off to a good start. Yeah. Good good spring. Now maybe the weather will hold out for us. >> Right. Well, we've had some warm days. I mean, we've had some bad days, we have had some Yeah, but our fields are conducive to cold. Yeah, right. We have to worry about getting them washed out. Anybody else have any comments or questions? Um just I would just make a note to everybody, you know, based on our work session and kind of the direction there. I'm working on different configurations and hope to have some recommendations to you by our next meeting on how we could um address you know, address our plans moving forward. Um
085and where we would you know, place the modulars and things like that. So I'm hoping to have all of that to you by the May 19th meeting. We're just continuing it. You know, there's lots of things to think about from logistics of where things go, where they can fit, you know, how that impacts where staff goes, students, those things like that. So we'll continue to work through that. Our team's doing a great job with that and um have that to you hopefully by next month. All right. Um Did that answer it? Yeah, can I say something? Yeah, sorry. I was going to say this during my report and I forgot, but I'm very proud of our district and my team. We received the Auditor State Award again. Um so there's going to be no >>
086[applause] >> Um But I got I got back from conference. I was at conference last weekend. The certificate was sitting on my desk, so Anyway. Um congratulations. Just very proud of my team and and what we've been able to accomplish. Just wanted to share that. Well-deserved recognition, so thank you for sharing. All right. Future board meetings. So we have our next regular session on May 19th here in the LGIR. Then June 16th, a regular session and then we do have a special fiscal year end meeting um on Monday, June 29th at 8:00 a.m. at the Board of Education office. It is just an opportunity for us to do some approvals for Amy for the fiscal year end. So that's what the next couple months look like. Um so with that, I'm looking for a motion
087to adjourn the Board of Education meeting tonight. So moved. Second. Uh Nair? Yes. >> Goodright? >> Yes. Uh Starcher? Yes. Kleinhenz? >> Yes. All right. Thank you everybody for being here. >> Hey, you go home and write