001It is six o'clock on Thursday, November 13th of 2025. I would like to call this board meeting to order. First, we're going to start with a public hearing on the retire rehire and if anyone has any comments. Okay. Uh then I would like to call this regular board meeting to order. Can I get a roll call? >> Mrs. Will? >> Yes. >> Mrs. Powers? >> Yes. >> Mr. Wilson? >> Yes. >> Mrs. Chestnut? >> Yes. >> Mrs. Mason? >> Yes. Now, we're going to have a presentation of the colors. Please stand. reason arms say [singing] by the dawn >> [singing] >> What so proud we [music] held at the twilight last stripes and bright [singing] stars through the perils we were so gallently streaming and the rockets [music and singing] rockets. Our bones gave the
002night that our flag was still there. [singing] Oh, say does that star spangled [singing] B yet [music] for the land of [singing] the land of the free and the home [music] of [singing] the brave. >> [applause] >> Please stand and join me in saying 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. Okay. Now I need a motion to approve the agenda. >> So moved. >> Second. Any discussion? Please call the role. >> Mrs. Will? >> Yes. >> Mrs. Powers? >> Yes. >> Mr. Wilson? >> Yes. >> Mrs. Chestnut? >> Yes. >> Mrs. Mason? >> Yes. Now I need an approval of the minutes of board of the
003board regular meeting that was held on October 16th, 2025. Do I have a motion? >> So moved. >> Second. >> Any discussion? >> Please call the role. >> Mrs. Will? >> Yes. >> Mrs. Powers? >> Yes. >> Mr. Wilson? >> Yes. >> Mrs. Chestnut? >> Yes. >> Mrs. Mason? >> Yes. >> Now I need an approval of the minutes of the board special meeting held on October 28th, 2025. Do I have a motion? Move. >> Second. >> Any discussion? Please call the role. >> Mrs. Will, >> yes. >> Mrs. Powers, >> yes. >> Mr. Wilson, >> yes. >> Mrs. Chestnut, >> yes. >> Mrs. Mason, >> yes. Now, I would like to hand over to our Veterans Day program. >> Mr. Gary Nep, can you step up to the uh podium, please? It's always a
004little green button. >> As the saying goes, as old as I am, you never can find out what's going on. 60 years ago, Milford High School was uneasy. Most of many of its students were 8,000 miles away fighting in Vietnam. Vietnam was not a place like any other, of an alien world. It was beautiful, exotic, and deadly. To the soldiers of Marines and the soldiers based in the northern parts of South Vietnam, it was a nightmarish place to wage war. They were in rugged mountains covered with vegetation, mountain streams full of blood sucking leeches. The helm the guards were inserted by helicopter into this green hell to a battle a tough and difficult enemy. Resilient temperatures often spiked 100 degrees with 100% humidity. Men carried 100 pound backs on their packs on their backs as
005they humped up and down mountains. To avoid ambushes, they left the trails and hacked their way through the jungle using machetes, sometimes getting as little as 100 yards in a day. Heat stroke was common, sometimes leading into uh death. Our men face encountered stinging bees, fleas, biting flies, leeches, 60 kinds of venomous snakes, poisonous spiders, foot long centipedes, and tigers and elephants. During the rainy season, it was nearly impossible to keep your feet dry. Those who were unable to do so developed what is known as trench foot where the feet the skin off your feet would shift off in sheets. The sharp edges of a 12-oot tall elephant grass could easily slice through your uniform, cut you, and introduce jungle rot to your system. Booby traps are always a danger. A nearly invisible wire stretched
006across a mountain trail could trigger a hand grenade or a mortar shell. Bungee sticks, sharpened bamboo sticks, stakes dipped in human waste were placed into leaf covered holes along the way and it could easily penetrate the boot of an American soldier. A retired sergeant major who has fought the Nazis in World War II, the Chinese in Korea, told me that the most difficult war for him was Vietnam. That was because you couldn't tell who the enemy was. In the morning, a guy could be your best friend, and in an evening, he'd be your worst enemy. There's a platoon of the Marines met adopted a street kid. One day the kid was crying and he walked up to the Marine posting guard. He'd been forced to carry a hang grenade. And it was up to the
007the soldier there at guard to determine who was to live or die. He or that poor kid. Milford paid a very high price for Vietnam. Seven of our young men killed, the most of any Claremont community. Goan lost six, five of whom lived on one road, Parker Road. I'd like to share some of their names with you as we proceed. Rodney Huddleston, Roger Lei, Dennis Johnston, Daniel Fleck, Clifford Leler, Gerald Hill, and John Spyel. I would like to share with you some of the stories of these three young men from Claremont from Milford. Rodney Huddleston was very popular at Milford High School, especially with the girls. He was always happy, cracking jokes, smiling. He played football. But even in the drama, the draftlin football shock where the guys were looking like they're real tough. I
008grabbed him, you could tell Rodney was on the edge of laughing. He couldn't take himself too seriously and he was a class clown. American Legion Post sponsored an essay writing contest about what it means to be an American. Principal Eut Lambert read the winning essay over the loudspeaker. It created quite a buzz among the students. They tried to figure out who had written such an essay, fine essay. When Mr. heard Lambert announced that Rodney had written it. There was stunned silence as it was hard for the students to believe that Rodney could have performed so well on that kind of a test. Rodney enrolled in high enrolled in Ohio University as an art student, but decided that college wasn't for him. He met with a few friends at Red's Tavern. I know a few of
009you remember Reds. After a couple of beers, they both decided to join the Marines. Rodney excelled leading his class. He joined the elite Marine Force Recon Unit and was deployed to Vietnam. On December 17, 1967, Rodney and his 12-man patrol were inserted into an area near Fubai. They ran into nearly 100 Vietkong. A fierce battle ensued, at times becoming hand-to-hand combat. About to be swamped by a superior force and running out of ammunition, the patrol requested extraction. It was dusk when the not when the Marines were emerging from a treeine. They were met by a helicopter blazing away with 50 millimeter hand 50 millimeter machine guns killing Rodney in the process. Rodney was not alone in this matter. Some historians have estimated that friendly fire, what the military calls misadventures, caused caused the death of
010between 15 and percent 15 10 to 15% of American casualties in Vietnam. Others say the number is much higher, maybe as many as 49%. It's always been a problem and it continues to be one with the military. Years later, the husband family received a phone call from the pilot who had killed Rodney. He had told them that he had suffered intense guilt every day since that happened. He was asking for their their forgiveness. The family told him he was not to blame. Never was. It was just an accident of war. Dennis Johnson. Dennis was as strong as an ox. As a guard on Milford's football team, he loved to crack holes in the defensive line and giving his running backs room to run. He loved to play baseball, fish, and go go-kart racing. Johnson joined
011the Marines shortly after high school. His unit was known as Hell in a Helmet. It was based in the mountains of South Vietnam. His comrade said he was gung-ho, a Marines marine who always could count on him. On February 10, 1969, Johnson was in a fire base near Laos. A helicopter carrying ammunition crashed about 600 yards outside of the base's perimeter. Johnson immediately got out and started running towards the burning chopper just as the 50 mm um machine gun fire and artillery shells were cooking off and exploding as he was in there. He went in several times and saved three crew members. His courage and disregard for his own safety during that daring rescue could have [clears throat] earned him a medal of honor, except that this did not happen in under combat. He was
012awarded, however, the Navy Marine Corps Medal for displaying exceptional valor in a non-combat situation. This was the same medal that John HK was awarded after World War II. On March 28th, 1969, Johnson's regiment was involved in a large search and destroy mission at Dongm. His fire team was walking point. Heavy machine gun fire from a concealed bunk North Vietnamese bunker erupted, cutting down the first man in line. A second man d ran to save his save him and he too was shot down. Johnson directed his men into firing positions and then with his gun blazing he runs up and tries to save the other man but he was shot and killed as well. In a little over a month, Lance Corpal Johnson displayed extraordinary examples of courage and devotion to his men. In May of
0132003, the Milford Veterans of Foreign Wars Post named this post after Dennis Johnson. Lewis John Spidell. John Spyell was a classic overachiever. He excelled in everything he did in college, in high school, college, and in the US Army. After graduating from Milford in 1964, he went to West Point, joining two other cadets from Milford. I don't know if there's any time that there had been three people from one community at West Point, but that was quite a record. His stated goal was to become an astronaut. Brilliant was the way his roommate used to describe John's ability in calculus. He scanned the page and immediately understood it. His roommate said that he would not have passed calculus without John's help. Spidell earned the prestigious Rangers tab, becoming one of the Army's elite warriors. His next stop
014was armor school at Fort Knox. He was first in his class and was deployed to Germany as a tank commander. To satisfied his need for speed, John purchased a Porsche and spent a lot of his offduty hours going 150 miles an hour probably down speeding quite fast. After marrying Ellen, his high school sweetheart, Spyell went to helicopter school. He arrived in Vietnam on December 28th, 1970, ironically at Camp Eagle, which is the home of the 101st Airborne. He began flying recon missions and small chopper that would zip along at 150 mph uh at treetop level. He switched to flying a Huey, the workhorse of the American helicopter fleet. He quickly earned the admiration of the men of the 101st for his daring and his flying expertise. Spidel operated in the infamous 35mm long Alsha Valley.
015The NVA occupied the the area with a large force trying to protect its its vital supply lines of the Ho Chi Men Trail. A platoon of Rangers was was conducting a mission on a rim overlooking the Ashawa Valley. The Americans came under heavy fire, sustaining casualties. Captain Spideyel flew in replacements for the wounded as for the wounded. As he was lifting off, John's chopper was hit by small arms fire. The chopper did not respond to his heroic efforts to write the machine. When the rotor blades clipped of the tree, the wounded bird went down, flipping over three times and resulting upside down. Spidell and the pilot and his co-pilot survived the crash, although both were very severely wounded and could not exit the chopper. The army tried everything it could to rescue these two pilots.
016Over three days, multiple rescue attempts failed. The enemy was just too strong. To soften up the NVA, jets, Cobra gunship, rockets, and machine gun fire and even a B-52 ark light bombing mission was were conducted. Only when a full company of rangers were a was mobilized and was able to fight his way down to the crash site were the two pilots able to be rescued. The co-pilot had died. John Sidell had survived but he was badly burned. His legs were crushed and they were infested with gangarine. John was sent to an American hospital in Okinawa to recover. Ellen and her father were in the San Francisco airport on their way to see John when they received a terrible phone call. John had died. Captain Spidell was postumously awarded the Purple Heart, Distinguished Flying Cross, the
017Bronze Star to accompany the Silver Star that had previously been awarded. He is buried in Milford's Green Cemetery. Great sense of common loss runs through all these stories and it's just hard to imagine what we would be if these guys were here. 2.7 million Americans served in Vietnam. 58,000 were killed. Another 300,000 were wounded. Certain wounds were expected. Missing limbs, burns, traumatic brain injuries. PTS and survivors guilt. But what was not expected were the cancers, heart conditions, and neurologic damage associated with a chemical defoliant. Agent Orange. Agent Orange was a very effective in killing trees and denying communists the use of hiding spots in the jungle or staging areas for attacks. It also was deadly to anyone exposed to the white powder, containing dioxin, one of the worst toxic substances ever created. It is believed
018that 300,000 Americans had died since the war of Agent Orange. Try to imagine that scope of that 300,000. That's almost five times the amount of men who were killed in battle or killed this 15 years later. There's a saying that goes something like this. A person has not truly died so long as they are remembered. I ask you to remember. Thank you. >> [applause] >> Now we're moving on to our first public comment. >> Oh, I'm That's okay. >> I'm so sorry. [snorts] >> [music] [music] >> Jesus. >> [music] [music] >> Now we're moving on to our first public commentary. Do we have any for the first portion? >> We do. Uh, Kathleen Faulner. >> Kathleen Falner, 1640 Squareswood Court. Um, my participation is regarding uh the mindful matters, um, kindness matters. So, I want
019to share a story about kindness, um, about empathy, about the kind of leadership that truly makes a difference. This fall, a request came in, um, not for a Milford student, but for a student from an opposing football team. The request was that the game be recorded and shared as a hard copy as the father of an opposing teammate or of the opposing team could not attend. He in fact had just been admitted to hospice. Phone calls began between the athletic director and the assistant coach. The coach said, "We can do better. Let's figure out a way how to let this father watch in real time." Lucky for me, I got to be the practice dummy, making sure the system worked for someone who did not have the same access as the athletic director and coach
020with some troubleshooting and double checks. We had hoped everything would work when it was game time. The game was played and everything worked exactly as planned. A week later, an email arrived from the student's family's friend. It read, "I want to extend my gratitude to you making arrangements for making arrangements to have the middle school game recorded and live streamed last Wednesday for my friend and neighbor. What you did was truly amazing. I am so thankful be to be a part of a community that was caring like you. The game was very was the very last time this father got to see his 12-year-old son play a football game or any sport. I'm sad to say that he passed away this morning with his wife by his side. Thank you again for all that you
021did to make this happen for someone you didn't even know. You did an incredible thing and the family will forever be grateful. leadership, empathy, strength, compassion, teamwork, determination, love for a student, for a family, the bond of football, of fathers and sons, of families. Mark Trout, the middle school athletic director, is an exceptional human being all the way around. He made sure this moment in memory could exist. He connected with everyone necessary to make it happen. Bittersweet as it was, he made it real. This is the kind of leadership we should all aspire to. The kind that puts humanity first. Thank you. >> Do we have any other public participation? >> Not for this round. No. >> Okay. Um we will be moving on to mission moments. And um tonight we would like to pause
022to honor our local veterans and the service that they've given to our country. And I want to highlight a member of our own Milford family whose daily work embodies the same sense of commitment, leadership, and purpose. Sergeant Donald Enan, our JRZY instructor at the Live Oaks Career Campus. Sergeant Enan doesn't simply teach JOTC. He leads young people in our community to rise to challenges, build character, and pursue excellence. Under his instruction, the Live Oaks Raider team has earned recognition at the regional and national levels, helping students discover strength, resilience, teamwork, and service. His work matters because it reflects our district's values of student centered, future ready, and collaborative. Today is a day about service. sacrifice and leadership. And Sergeant Enan reminds us that those qualities are not only for after high school, but are lived
023right out here in our halls and classrooms. We thank him for his dedication and lead leadership of our student cadetses. And we are grateful to have him in Milford and proud of the impact he makes on our students and community. And with that, we're going to move into treasurer reports. Michael, do you have an update for us? >> We do. We're going to jump into the performance audit and review that a little bit and then that will provide us with two additional updates as well since that's mainly what we worked on in our committee. You want to bring that presentation up, Doug? >> Yes, Steve. I know he's here somewhere. >> Oh, he's rolling. He's going blind back there. >> Yes. There we go. >> All right. So, uh we've talked a lot about the
024performance audit, but we're uh it's been up on the website, but we we're officially announcing it tonight that it's out there. Anybody can go and visit the um the Milford School's website, go under the treasurer's um tab, and then you can see the 2025 state performance audit there. Um you can download the whole document. There's also the overview that we'll go over here today and probably a little bit more detail that's on there as well. Um I'm not sure how you have yours laid out, Doug. Let's go ahead and go to the next slide. >> Okay. Do you want to talk about this? >> Sure. So, a little background. Um about a year ago, the um the board was asked if we would investigate a performance audit, which means ask the auditor of state to
025come and do a deep dive into our financial situation, specifically our expenditures. And to give you a little more background, um in 2008, we had a performance audit that was given to us because we were in fiscal caution. Currently, we're not in fiscal distress. So this was an opportunity for the auditor state to come do this deep dive and tell us how we compare to some specific peers. If you go to the next slide, you can see these are the peers which they used to uh look at us versus them and say okay they're very close to you as far as enrollment. They're very close to you as far as revenue and very close to you as far as expenditures. and how do we compare as far as personto person, bus route to bus route,
026um athletic team to athletic team. So, that's really as deep as they went. But as far as expenditures, they were able to tell us, hey, we have recommendations. And to be honest with you, if you want to go to the next slide, rip off the band-aid, this is what they recommended. So, as you can see, there's on here four specific areas of focus. So, one, two, three, and four. A fifth one is not on here, and that's facilities. And the reason facilities is not on here is because we're actually under staff compared to our peers. But if you look at the bottom line right here, and I know it's hard to see, so we'll go right here. They're recommending that we reduce expenditures by $2.1 million. What they're doing now is they're trying to break
027down and say, "Okay, your your peers," and we'll start right here with uh general education teaching staff. You're you have 3.5 more teachers than your peers do. So, if you want to be in line with your peers and save money, we recommend that you look at that. What we're going to do is go into our own deep dive and come back either monthly or every couple months depending on the data and have a nice conversation with the board, superintendent, administrators and say, "Okay, there's more to this than just let's reduce 3.5 uh teachers." We have to decide what's good for the district, what's good for the students. Keeping that in mind, the focus is really the 2.1 million, not what's recommended here. The other thing to understand is the data that they used, the expenditures
028that they used, the revenue that they used is based on fiscal year 24. We're currently in fiscal year 26. Some things have already been started. I don't have to go into this because we all know about transportation is that state minimum. So that is one area that when we come back, Mr. Johnson, Peterman, they will come here and they will start talking about what was recommended through the state audit and what we've already done and what we currently do and if we change things and go to their recommendations versus what we're already doing, how that will affect you. The other thing to keep in mind is when you look at peers, sometimes EMUS coding is different than it is with us. >> What's EMIS coding, Doug? >> Correct. EMIS coding is how we track the
029students and the staff. That's what gets sent to the state of Ohio. So a gifted teacher might be coded differently in one school than it is here. So these are things that we want to bring forward. >> So let me jump on a quick overview of the four sess session. So again it's important to rem to repeat that this is something we took on voluntarily. Um the things that are outlined are um options and not mandates for future considerations. Right? So these things don't have a specific timeline on them and as Doug mentioned, you know, these are things that we'll break down each one in more detail. You know, the audit notes that our enrollments declined over the last several years. We've been re reviewing that ourselves, and we're looking at a range of potential
030causes, which are birth rate changes, shifting house patterns, transportation availabilities, more families choosing private or online options, and the financial barrier created by tuitionbased full day kindergarten. So we'll continue to study these trends carefully as part of our long-term planning and then any staffing adjustments will follow contracts and will be approached through attrition first. Um employee healthc care is another area the audit identifies potential future savings rel related to health care contributions but these types of changes can only be made through collective bargaining. This information will help frame future conversations as insurance costs continue to rise statewide. The other part is transportation as Doug said. So the audit confirmed that moving to state minimum busing was a financially necessary step. It also notes that our new transportation contract does increase the per bus cost as
031routes are eliminated. So we'll need to monitor several key data points going forward. Things like the number of elementary students per seat, whether bell schedules allow for efficient routing, how reduced mileage affects state funding, and how contract pricing shifts when routes change. Our goal is to balance efficiency, cost, and student impact while we continue to operate under state requirements. And then the last is extracurriculars. We invest more in student activities than peer districts do, not only athletics, but activities as a whole. The updated fee structure implemented this year is expected to reduce the general fund subsidy. Uh we will continue evaluating this area as part of our normal budget cycle and the ongoing work already in motion. Uh and then over the next several board meetings, as Doug mentioned, we'll break down kind of uh
032an area at each meeting in more detail to help uh clarify the work that we've already done and the work we'll do moving forward. The one point I did want to point out that's at the front of the audit is is Milford's low tax effort. So, one of the most important pieces of context in the audit is that Milford is one of the lowest tax school communities in Ohio. The simplest way to picture that is if 100 Ohio school districts lined up from the highest funded by local taxes to the lowest, Milford would be way down near the end of the line. Not because our school costs less, but because our community contributes less locally than almost everyone else our size. So when cost increase, um, transportation, insurance, staffing, you know, we feel the pressure
033sooner. It doesn't say that the community should or shouldn't do. It doesn't say what the community should or shouldn't do. It just explains the math behind our financial picture. And the last piece is is where we talked about in declining enrollment. So, we will be looking more at our uh what we talked about before around all day kindergarten. Um because declining enrollment was one of the audits major themes. Um you know, we want the community to know that we've been reviewing full day kindergarten as part of our overall enrollment strategy. This has been an ongoing dis discussion for months. Um, we'll be looking at the long-term academic benefits documented by our principles, the number of families who select halfday uh due to tuition, how transportation changes affected enrollment decisions, the debt and payment plan challenges,
034and the competitive landscape since nearby districts offer full day at no cost. So, we we'll continue to analyze the financial impact, the staffing implications, and the logistical considerations, and we expect to bring more forward at the December meeting uh to make that goal more clear for our U district moving into enrollment for next year. And that's a full review. All right. So, this is a great opportunity for us. So, a deep dive has been done by the auditor state into our expenditures. It means then we have a roadmap. We can start talking about each area that affects each and every one of us whether it be a local taxpayer, the board of education and of course you the students. Um I and you can slide down or go to the next slide. So what we've
035done here is we've kind of broken down the areas into human resources and what some of the key findings from the audit are and some of the action steps that they recommend. And if you go through the next slide, you can see insurance. Now, insurance, um, we've had debate over the years about our high deductible health plan with the HSA. They actually did not have an issue with that, but they did have an issue with our PO. Luckily, we don't have a lot of staff members that take advantage of the PO. So recommendations are we work with our insurance consortium to help these individuals find a better plan for themselves and their family. Go down to the next slide. Transportation. Okay, transportation is a big deal. We know it's a big deal. Again, we will
036have Mr. Johnson and Peterman come. They will have a breakdown of what's happening. And then the next slide, I think, is facilities. We talked about that where we are actually significantly below our peer average for the number of facility employees. Again, something that will be monitored, but we still have to keep in mind that the idea behind this is what do we need to reduce in expenditures and then the next slide is our extracurriculars. Now, extracurriculars, the reason that this is brought up is because we supplement out of the general fund. Now, the general fund when we ask for a levy, that's what we're asking is to support the general fund. So athletics is supported mainly through the general fund. Gate revenue uh supports a large portion of uniforms uh buying uh referees, umpires, things
037of that nature. So what we have to do is look what we're doing here compared to our peers, but also what's good for everyone in the district. Uh and if you go to the next slide. So these are some additional recommendations that are made by the auditor of state to review our collective bargaining agreement which means the language in there and see how it can benefit both the union and ourself meaning the district. Uh additional staffing reductions. Again the auditor states always going to make that suggestion. Implement base and step salary freezes. Again, a standard requirement from them and to reduce general fund subsidy from extracurriculars. Right here, investigate revenue enhancements. That's fancy wording for run a levy. So, right now, what I'm trying to tell everyone is don't anyone panic. All we're doing is
038starting our in-depth analysis of what we need to do and what we believe is good for everyone. So this is a road map. This is just the beginning for us. We're going to come back. We're going to talk about it. If we don't come to a conclusion one month, it might come back five months from now because we need more data. So and then if you go to the next slide, these are some positive takeaways. So several areas showed no need for reduction. Salaries, wages, employee benefits are consistent or below pure averages. again the high deductible health plan with the HSA um some adjustments recommended we've already started again fiscal year 24 data emiss students staffing mainly fiscal year 25 we're in fiscal year 26 some things have already occurred as we progress forward we'll
039be able to see how things are shaping up which means how does our bank account look how does our 5year your forecast. So, any questions? Any additional comments? >> Uh, just a quick comment. Anytime we make adjustments, it's like a year and a half or two years before we realize what those are. So, like we'll see this now. We'll have conversations about what it looks like. We'll decide on a change, but then we won't really see it till the next fiscal year. So, um, I do appreciate all the work that's been done by all of the administration, even in the difference between the data they were looking at and what we're seeing right now. There's >> and that's a great point and and that's why I keep bringing up that this is fiscal year 24
040data. So, when the board said told me to call the auditor of state, well, we were looking we were in the middle of fiscal year 25. So, all we had was fiscal year 24 data. So, we really can't take that data and put it in here and give you the report that's needed because that would take another year and then we're still a year behind. So, >> yeah, I thought the auditor actually explained it in a really great way. She was saying that you have to stop the data at some point otherwise you you would just continue on forever and never have meaningful data to work with. So, I feel like now we have really good data to work with. We have a good place to start from like you were saying and I think
041it'll be really helpful to go through section by section, month by month and just take a really good deep dive looking into the data looking at what we can do looking at what is important to our district and how we can best serve our students. Um, and I I also want to commend, like you were saying, our staff because when the auditors met with us, they said that our staff was above board with their professionalism and so willing to work with them um getting data to them and we had excellent participation from our district. So that takes our people away from their normal jobs so that they could work with the auditors for this and they definitely should be commended for that. >> Doug, when will we know when like the pay to pay play
042changes from this year? >> Well, that's that's more data that we're collecting. >> Yeah. So, we won't know till the end of the year or >> on a monthly basis. We'll be able to start reporting how we're doing compared to last year. And you know if we already threw out or well the auditor state did the 2.1 million what have we collected to date and how's it compared to what we're contributing and I think today I was a nice overview and when we get into the deep dive I think the intent is for us to have more meaningful discussions sort of like we do in our committee meetings but more in front of the public so you can see all of the things that are going into these decisions and all of the things that
043are going to move forward um using this data. >> Absolutely. >> And um I think some community sessions would be helpful too like we had after the levy didn't pass um because this is a room that we can't really have conversation with the room per se. So it's nice to have those opportunities >> and that's that's a great point. That's something we're going to discuss and how do we incorporate you all into the conversation. So, but I don't want anyone to panic or be scared right now. I don't want the employees to be scared. I don't want the students to be scared. I don't want the parents to be scared. All this is is an opportunity for us to make oursel better. I say it a lot. Reduce expenditures. Be fiscally responsible. >> The more
044you tell me not to be scared makes me scared. >> Same. [laughter] >> I'll laugh when I say it. >> So, okay. >> All right. So, next I'm going to need a motion for approval for the board reports. >> So, moved. >> Second. >> Doug, do you want to take us through those? >> Sure. >> All right. So, Madame President, members of the board, I am excited to show you a snapshot of our finances through October. Steve already knows where to go, so he's sliding down. Through October of fiscal year 26. So, through four months. You can see this is our bank reconciliation and that we balance which is important. That's between our fifth third account and our USS account which is our state software. So the state of Ohio and our fifth third account
045our operating account and payroll balances as well. And then the next slide this is our investment report. So our investment report shows that uh year to date we're we've earned around 1.2 2 million, which is important because who knows what's going to happen with interest rates. So, that's going to start going down obviously, but we're going to do the best we can. We have an awesome company, Red Tree, that works with us to make sure that they put our money in the right spots and don't put us in a in a in a frightful situation. And then the next slide, now this is my favorite slide. So, this is a snapshot of the five-year forecast. So, this is the five-year forecast that was submitted a month ago right in here. Now, if you slide down,
046Steve, you can see that the five-year keep going just a little bit more. You can see right there, we're projecting for the year a negative $1.9 million. What I like is this column right here because it tells us how we're doing year-to- date. This gives me the information that I want. Line 6.010. Right now, year to date, we're at a positive $10 million. That means we're doing things correctly, plain and simple. So, if we keep up that good work, that's why I say don't worry yet. Now, unfortunately, and I know I say this a lot, I'm always try to be a glass half full kind of person, we essentially only get paid twice a year. Property taxes only come twice a year. So, we have to make it work. That's what makes it difficult. So,
047you have to be fiscally responsible. Again, I know I say it a lot, but if we just keep hearing it, then we think it before we spend money. And then the next slide. So, here's some pictures. So, what this does is this shows our our local revenue and how it's gone up from fiscal year 24, 25 into 26. And then our state revenue has gone up from 24 to 25 just down slightly from into 26 from 25 to 26. And then all other revenue is way up, which is awesome. And then the next uh graph here's our expenditures. Now, this is obviously the one we have to watch uh with a fine tooth comb. The reason I say that is we don't make anything. We don't sell anything. Our revenue is constant. Our expenditures are
048all over the place. And that's what we have to watch. So salary and benefits go up each year, but they always will. That's common. It's right in here. purchase services. And you can see how it's down from 24 to 25 to 26. That's where our savings are right now. And then all other expenditures are down from 24 to 25 up slightly into 26, but a lot of times that happens because it's early in the year. You pay for things now that take you through the year and then it catches up somewhat. And then our next slide. Now what this slide is here part of house bill 96 which is a bianium budget that's passed every two years. We are now in we've been informed through the house bill that we are not allowed to have
049administrative expenditures above 15%. Right now they're sitting at 15.86. So we have to monitor this. Last year we ended the fiscal year at 14.23. We haven't added any administrators. It's just the way that the expenditures are through the first four months compared to last year. They're always high at the beginning of the year. They start to go down because your expenditures again are heavy at the beginning and then they slow down as the year goes. >> So we'll expect those costs to go down. the the administrative% yes because it remember a couple years ago or a couple years a couple months ago was at 18%. >> So it's already gone from 18% down to 15.86 >> and if it doesn't if it if we get in eight months into the year again here's a tool
050that's telling us okay we need to do something. So we have a tool that's saying hey we need to reduce expenditures by 2.1. Well guess what this would be an area that we have to look first. Um, you were talking about the state budget bill. There are other changes uh around the property taxes and >> property tax reform is in committees right now. Yes. >> That could impact us. >> That could negatively. >> Yes. >> So, the low and short of it, it doesn't affect us as much because we're not on the floor. Um, but it doesn't mean in the future it won't. That's what we have to keep in mind. So there's something that was passed in uh I think the 70s, House Bill 920. So when we receive or we ask for a
051levy, let's say it's 10 mil. So we ask for a 10 mil levy. It doesn't mean we're receiving 10 mills. You're actually receiving what 10 mills generates at the particular time that you ask for the levy. Then each year you come back and if your property value goes up, the 10 mills go down because you're only allowed to collect a certain amount of money. And did I also see a list that Claremont County properties are up for reappraisal in 26? >> Well, that's uh it's what's that >> trienal update. >> So, we had a full update in 23 and there'll be a trienal update in 26, which basically means they look at statistics and say these are what homes are worth now >> and then there'll be another full one three years after that. >>
052So, it's a six year sixyear cycle. But when that changes, I know when we saw it the last time, um people felt a pretty significant impact on their houses. A lot of people did, but the [clears throat] school actually does not get very much of an increase if >> No, no, we do not. Um because again, when you pass a levy, you only get a certain amount of money. Now, inside mills is different. Inside mills are are shared between municipalities and us. Um the only difference there is there's no roll back. So when property values go up, whatever's tied to an inside mill, then we get full credit for that. So any questions, other questions? >> Sounds good. >> Please call the role. >> Mrs. Will, >> yes. >> Mrs. Powers, >> yes. >> Mr.
053Mr. Wilson. >> Yes. >> Mr. Chestnut. >> Yes. >> Mrs. Mason. >> Yes. Uh, now I need a motion to approve contracts. >> Second. >> Any discussion? >> Please call the role. >> Mrs. Will? >> Yes. >> Mrs. Powers? >> Yes. >> Mr. Wilson? >> Yes. >> Mrs. Chestnut? >> Yes. >> Mrs. Mason? >> Yes. >> Now I have a list of vendors for approval and I need a motion to approve them. >> So moved. >> Second. >> Any discussion? Nope. >> Please call the role. >> Mrs. Will, >> yes. >> Mrs. Powers, >> yes. >> Mr. Wilson, >> yes. >> Mrs. Chestnut, >> yes. >> Mrs. Mason, >> yes. >> Now, I have um several donations to approve and I need a motion to approve them. >> So moved. >> Second. >> Any discussion?
054>> Doug, you want to remind us to get on the Tri Health Beacon donation for athletics? That's a sponsorship, right? >> Yes. >> Okay. And then, you know, obviously, thank you to everybody else on this list. you know, for their donations, the Miranda for the theater, Michael Mikna, and an anonymous donation to the DECA program. So, thank you for that. >> Okay, please call the role. >> Mrs. Will, >> yes. >> Mrs. Powers, >> yes. >> Mr. Wilson, >> yes. >> Mrs. Chestnut, yes. >> Mrs. Mason, >> yes. >> All right, we are now ready for our middle school update. >> Um, fortunately, there's less and less of updates to do on the middle school every month. um because that means we're getting everything done. Um parking lots are all in, sidewalks are all in.
055Um we are working on punch list items. Um the uh if anybody's driven by the down Wolfpen, the monument sign was installed a couple days ago. Um working with Mr. Wells and his team to learn how to program that. It'll be more than just the the date, time, and temperature, but um so there'll be more to come, but we're working on that. Um the installation of the softball field will will start next week. Um and again continue to work on punch list items. The week of Thanksgiving will be a big week for our contractors to be able to come in when students aren't there um to get some things done. So um working on closeout. There's a lot of paperwork that comes with closeout. That's been a lot of our discussions between Conger and SHP,
056OFCC, and ourselves um of working on that with the goal. We had an original goal of having closeout done by the end of this calendar year, but realistically it'll be it should be uh quarter 1 of 2026. >> And the grass is looking fantastic. >> There's still, that's the other thing that's actually starting. They were there today and they're starting to work on the finishes of the landscaping. There's still some trees and bushes to go in along that east field. Um, and then finishing up the seating and and kind of there there's some punch list items with some bare spots on some of that seating. It does look fantastic from Wolfpen. When you actually get up close, it's doesn't look quite as good, but it takes a while. That that field is not irrigated. Um,
057so we're at um mother nature's mercy as far as getting that um watered. Um, so typically, you know, big field like that's going to take a couple years for the the grass to really come in strong. So, >> and what about the geese? >> Like, where did they come from? >> They showed up about a year year and a half ago. I don't know what to tell. They've been here more than just a couple of months. They >> We didn't We didn't have geese on campus for years and about a year ago they started showing up. I don't know what to tell you. >> Oh, no. We got rid of Mount Milford and now we have the geese. >> All right. >> Um, I do have a question. I've I've heard from a lot of
058people that they are wondering what is happening with that turn lane that is in front of the old where the junior [music] high used to be which kind of turns into nowhere right now. >> Um so actually um very shortly the contractor who's doing the lane widening is actually going to use that area as a layown area. So they'll put some gravel down. You'll see some pipe and some materials that for a a layown area. They will restore that when the project's done. Um they're going to start working on Wolfpen to do the turn lane project on Wolfpen first. Um with the hope of completing that side of it before winter hits. Um the turn lane/light project at Eagles Way and 131. Um we don't anticipate that being completed until probably March of 2026, but
059there will be some utility work um as well as widening of Eagle's Way itself um all the way up to um 131 so that we can put the two the right-hand turn, left-hand turn, and then obviously the ingress lane. Um we're adding about five feet to the existing Eagle's Way. on Wolfpen is the um there will there be a a right turn lane a longer right turn lane for people to to come in? >> So there'll be a right turn lane. >> I think it's about 25 ft from the the the ingress to the church parking lot to that new north access road. There'll be a turn lane there, but then the turn lane that exists that will continue all the way down to the light at Eagle's Way. >> Okay. So, it will come
060all the way. >> Yes, it'll come all the way down and then that the curb cut that um Miss Mason was referring to, once they're done with that, that curb cut will go away. >> All right. Any other comments? Thank you. >> Welcome. >> Okay. Uh next we have the first reading of several policies um one through 28. Um Emily, you're on the policy committee. Is that right? >> Um yes. So a this was a lot of language that came um that came out. It's really fairly most of them are fairly minor. They're there really weren't any major um any major changes. It just we only we only look at them a couple times a year when they're not they're not really big changes. But um based off of the budget bill, there was uh
061some tweaks of how we have to discuss things. Um I don't know that there are any any that are uh significant changes. Okay. And then we also have one policy to resend and this is the first reading of it as well. All right. Um moving on to personnel and I have an update. All right. So the district continues to review compensation structures and staffing needs to ensure consistency and alignment across all roles. Discussions around salary schedules and pay frameworks are ongoing as part of our broader broader effort to create a fair sustainable system for the future. We also want to recognize this month several dedicated educators who have shared their intent to retire at the end of the school year. Together, they represent more than 150 years of service to Milford schools. Their care for
062students, passion for teaching, and lasting impact on our classrooms and community are deeply appreciated. We have Kristen Baker at the middle school with 25 years of service. Tara Bells at McCormack Elementary with 32 years of service. Patrick Murphy at the academy with 30 years of service. Trina Panko at the high school with 24 years of service, Michelle Rap at the middle school with 28 years of service and Mirin Sullivan at the high school with 12 years of service. We are grateful for their dedication and wish them the very best in the next chapter. In staffing updates, we have new hires that include part-time custodians at both the middle school and the Miranda Center, as well as three aids filling recently vacated positions. Supplemental assignments for wrestling are being finalized and baseball volunteers uh will also
063be approved for the upcoming season. Um so we have I need a motion to approve um human resources businesses from G1 through 4. >> So moved. >> Second. >> Any discussion? >> Please call the role. >> Mrs. Will. >> Yes. >> Mrs. Powers. >> Yes. >> Mr. Mr. Wilson. >> Yes. >> Mrs. Chestnut. >> Yes. >> Mrs. Mason. >> Yes. >> Uh, now we have a curriculum and instruction section. And do you have an update on that? >> I do. Um, so we had some two um big topics this month were cyber security and the options that mean I don't know if I saw Emma Walker here, but um she has done a really good job of connecting with other school districts and figuring out um cyber security. it just changes so rapidly and in
064order to keep us safe from fishing attempts and keep accounts safe, we have a lot of data we want to make sure that does not get out. So, we're really look she's looking into those options um and what we need to meet the need there. Um and then we also Michael sort of alluded to it earlier had a good discussion around what um funding all day kindergarten would look like. Um and one of the big things that we talked about is when a family comes for kindergarten they end up staying right. We want to educate as many students as we can. If they start somewhere else at kindergarten, the chances go down that they'll come here for first grade. So, we want to make sure it's an opportunity for um all families to be uh
065involved in Milford schools. Um so, those are our big two topics. >> Yeah. >> And then we have some curriculum pay is um our agenda item for tonight. >> All right. So, um I need a motion to approve curriculum pay. >> So, moved. >> Second. >> Any discussion? Please call the role. >> Mrs. Will, >> yes. >> Mrs. Powers, >> yes. >> Mr. Wilson, >> yes. >> Mrs. Chestnut, yes. >> Mrs. Mason, >> yes. >> Now we have business operations and we will be talking about Patterson and Mulberry controls upgrade. I need a motion to approve those. >> So moved. >> Second. >> Jeff, do you want to tell us about those? Um, so this is, um, doing upgrades to our HVAC controls at both Patterson and Malberry. Um, the controllers that we currently have
066on our VAV boxes, our air handlers, um, some of our other mechanical equipment is outdated. Um, you're not able to purchase it. It's not supported anymore. So, this will bring um, these two buildings fully up to the the current standards. >> Any discussion? >> No. >> Please call the RO. >> Mrs. Will. >> Yes. Mrs. Powers, >> yes. >> Mr. Wilson, >> yes. >> Mrs. Chestnut, >> yes. >> Mrs. Mason, >> yes. >> Um, Doug, you said that we do have public participation. >> Okay. Um, before we begin, I want to remind everyone of our public participation in meeting conduct policies. Tonight's business is a business meeting of the Bill Milford Board of Education that takes place in public. It's not a public debate or a back and forth discussion. We hear and appreciate the
067community's perspectives and public participation is a valued part of our process. The second public participation is open to all matters and will be for a maximum of 30 minutes. Individuals will be permitted three minutes to present to the board of education. Complaints against the school employee are not permitted in public session until the defined lines of communication have been met. The public participation may be extended by a vote of the majority of the board. Outbursts, interruptions, or comments from the audience during another speaker's time are not permitted. If disruptions occur, I will pause the meeting or ask individuals to leave so that we can conduct our work. Additionally, for student safety and privacy, we are asking speakers not to share names or identifying details of students. Thank you in advance for your cooperation and for
068helping us maintain a respectful and orderly meeting. And with that, we will go to our first speaker. First speaker, Dustin, not a public speaker. >> As a reminder, we don't you don't need to state your name, your address, simply your name. Perfect. >> Um, Dustin Falner, you cannot lead a program, a school or a district without first being a protector of students. When bad things happen happen, people often say, "If we had only knew. If we only knew." But the truth is in our system too often things are allowed bad things are allowed to happen. When an athletic director partakes in questionable financial dealings, ignores policies, laws, and credible allegations. When complaints are buried, toxic environments are allowed to fester unchecked. And friends protect friends instead of students, bad things happen. Protecting students is not
069a procedural detail. It is a moral obligation. Period. Full stop. Every student deserves a safe, supportive school where they can learn and grow. Many of our kids come from really hard places. School should not be one of them ever. And [snorts] I don't I don't see him here today, but it's telling that the booster president chooses loyalty to a friend over the safety of students. And there's a price for everything. But that price, what's the price of safety? And I'm ready to write that check right here. But not to the boosters who value donations over protection. But for the students themselves, every athlete, every student, from the division one recruits we have here today to the quiet kids that sit in the stands during games. Everyone, every single student deserves to get out of high
070school unbroken, whole, and alive. I would [snorts] trade every fundraiser dollar, every win for mental health and well-being of our students. And I wish I could say the same for the rest of for some of the people in this district. I've spent my entire professional career fighting for kids. I've faced and defeated more powerful opponents in the name of mental health and well-being. An uninformed booster president, a dishonest superintendent, and an unfit athletic director. Do not intimidate me. I will fight loudly and relentlessly for those who have been silenced, intimidated, and ignored. And everybody hear these words. Hear these words because there are no gray areas. You either value our children, their safety, their mental health, their physical well-being, or you stand among the among the monsters that we fight. That being said, I would
071like to thank the school board for your time, attention, and consideration of this matter. Despite the uninformed noise and the misinformation surrounding it, you've allowed the investigations to play out, sought counsel, review the evidence, and acted in the best interest of the students, and the district is better for it. Thank you guys. Kathleen, >> Kathleen Falner. I'm a parent. Um, what we are facing right now is not just a personnel issue. It's a test of this district's integrity. Across the country, from Penn State to Michigan State to the women's gymnastics program, we see what happens when leaders in athletics fail to report abuse and others choose to protect them. In every single case, the pattern is the same. Silence, loyalty, and the belief that protecting reputations matters more than protecting the students. And in every
072case, that silence destroyed lives and institutions alike. Here we have an athletic director who failed to report abuse allegations but also covered up other programs misconduct and who disregarded district policies meant to protect students. That is not leadership. That is betrayal. This is not my opinion. This is a fact and it's in the district's own report. But what is equally troubling is that some of our own coaches and community members are using their positions, their booster networks, and their voices to defend and protect this individual even after these facts have been made clear. This is deeply concerning because when coaches who are entrusted with the caring character development of our students continue to support someone who has violated that trust, it calls their own judgment and values into question. Using influence, networks, and personal loyalties
073to shield someone who has endangered children is a gross breach of trust, an ethical violation, and it is absolutely vile. Therefore, I'm asking for the resignation of the athletic boosters president, whose leadership has contributed to enabling this behavior. Further, all coaches who have signed their support to someone who has publicly documented evidence of misconduct without considering the consequences for the students who endured the abuse and toxic culture that was created undergo additional education on abuse prevention, mandatory reporting, and ethical responsibilities to the students that they are entrusted to protect. This culture to protect the system first is absolutely terrifying. We teach our students that character is what you do when no one is watching. But our community is watching. Our students are watching. And what they see right now will define how safe they feel
074to come forward in the future. This is the moment to show courage and not comfort. To prove that loyalty to a person will never outweigh our duty to protect students. If we fail to act, if we excuse or overlook misconduct for the sake of convenience, then we send a dangerous message that in this district, power protects itself and children come second. Our children and their safety are not for sale. Connor Connor Peek. Good evening and thank you for the chance to speak. I am Connor Pek, resident voter and proud head coach of Milford men's lacrosse. Yesterday, I sent the unified letter signed by over 30 Milford High School coaches representing over 20 athletic programs. Together, we serve over 750 Milford High School athletes and thousands more through the youth programs in Milford. We wrote to
075express our strong support for athletic director Aaron Zupka. Many of those coaches, students, and parents of students are here tonight or following closely because we believe Aaron is an honorable, effective, and high-erforming leader among the best this district has. I've also heard from many who share our views but choose not to add their name to them, fearing backlash or retaliation. If that is how this administration operates, so be it. We can all find another place to coach. If that's not how this administration operates, then you have an opportunity now to listen to the majority of the public, to listen to your staff, to listen to the students who have shown up to show their support tonight, and to the rest of the public, and lead with transparency and integrity. That's what most of you promised
076when you campaigned for these positions. And those words, transparency and improved communication, are still listed under some of your names on our public website. These words mean more than private executive sessions or closed door meetings with disgruntled individuals trying to tear others down. They mean listening to the people you serve and standing behind those who serve with excellence, even when they make minor and rare procedural mistakes. On the topic of improved transparency and communication, I wonder if you, the board, have considered the impact the past week has had on the staff and students at Milford High School. Have you reached out to the athletic staff that's keeping the lights on to reassure or support them? Have you given a reason for other administrators, staff, or students to believe that you'd have their backs if they've
077needed it? that you're willing to be responsive and communicate with them in good faith or that you'd be willing to help develop them if they made a minor mistake. Everyone will know the answer to these questions in the coming days and weeks. In Milford, we do not need more bureaucrats in leadership positions that act behind closed doors and hide behind procedures. We need servant leaders who aggressively, selflessly, and fearlessly work to enhance the experience and growth of our students and systems. We need more Aaron Zupkas, and we need Aaron Zupka specifically. Thank you for your time. [applause] >> [applause] >> Okay, next please. >> Andy Horn Andy Horn, a boys varsity uh boys golf coach. I'm going to make this short and sweet. I um I I agree 100% what the gentleman just said. 100%.
078Aaron's done nothing but good for the golf team. It's a small part of Milford, but uh he's done everything humanly possible and he's one of the best ads I've ever met in my entire life. Thank you, [applause] Catherine. Katherine O'Brien. Good evening. Thank you for allowing me to speak tonight. My name is Katie O'Brien and I'm the current junior varsity girls golf coach at Milford High School. I have coached in some capacity now for Milford for five years, spending two as the varsity head coach and three as the JV head coach. I teach middle school science and spent my first three years in Middletown City Schools and the last seven in Lovelin City Schools. My husband and I are also resigning in Milford with our one and a halfyear-old son and have another one on
079the way in March. I have the sincere pleasure of working with Aaron and have as my athletic director for nine years here in Milford and in Middletown. In my three years with Middletown, I coached both golf and softball at the middle school and high school level. As a first year teacher in 2016, I first met Aaron when I approached him with the desire to begin the middle school co-ed golf program. Aaron intently listened to my proposal and enthusiastically supported the creation of this program. He knew that the need was there and that the program would serve and benefit our students. This mindset is what makes Mr. Zupka the selfless, dedicated, and innovative leader leader he is. Aaron takes the time to carefully listen and consider other perspectives. He acts without judgment and always acts in
080the best interest of the students he serves. He is a leader and a servant, committing his time and energy well beyond his typical job title. As a mother with young children, I know that Aaron has had to sacrifice time with his own family to dedicate himself to this position. early mornings, late evenings, weekends, and holidays. He makes himself available at any moment of any day for any matter. As a girls golf coach, I am well aware of how our sport is typically looked compared to other larger, more community focused sports such as football and basketball. With that said, that's not Mr. Zepko's perspective on girls golf. Every one of our five seasons I've coached for Milford, he has supported our team with his physical presence at numerous matches, tournaments, and special events during the season.
081Many times we've had opposing coaches approach us and comment about how visible and supportive our AD is. We've also had parents from opposing ECC schools make similar comments to us, saying things like, "I wish RAD came out to watch our girls play golf." Aaron creates opportunities for all athletes, no matter the sport, no matter the time it will take, no matter the effort that he inevitably will have to contribute. He has taken Milford's athletic programs and facilities from the bottom, meeting bare minimums to the top of the conference in a short amount of time he has been at the helm. He does not idally sit back and wait for things to happen. He has the enthusiasm, innovation, passion, and guts to make them happen for our kids. As an educator, this has always been at
082the forefront of my own teaching philosophy. Schools and those in education should always put their kids first when making any decision. That is what I ask that you do today. Aaron Zupka is everything our kids need and an athletic director. He is committed to Milford families, their athletes, and by extension the entire Milford community. It would be catastrophic for Milford schools to lose Mr. Aaron Zupka. And I hope that you all take a moment and recognize that today. Thank you. [applause] Next, please >> Mark Hi, I'm Mark Lynch. This is a first for me. So, uh um I'm a Milford resident, uh taxpayer voter. Uh I don't work for Milford schools. I am an educator. I've coached at Milford. I coached, uh with Connor and a lot of these guys back here, and it's and
083it's been a pleasure. Uh I'm just here to speak on Aaron Zupka's behalf. I've known him for a long time. I know him to be a man of high character. I heard some stuff about allegations and uh equating to whatever went on with Michigan State and Penn State, which are tragic and horrible uh uh circumstances that are devastating to the people involved. Uh I hear that, I'm like, "Wow." Uh then there must be some criminal charges or something coming because if you're going to throw that out there, that's reputation smearing right there. Potentially slander. And I hear proof. Where's the proof? Okay, that's just I didn't have that written down, but I don't know to say that about someone who's not here. Um, anyway, let me talk about AZ a little bit. Uh, I know
084him as a great man. I know him as a family man, high character, high morals, doesn't lie. Um, he he puts the kids first. Uh, the proof to me is not just in like all the ECC championships and all that cool stuff because when I coached at Milford, they weren't winning that stuff. There wasn't a lot of school pride. And actually, I think the coolest thing is the golden megaphone that y'all won. Uh having the flock being the uh number one student section in the state of Ohio. That right there says there's school pride memories that these kids are going to that are going to last forever. Uh that I honestly didn't see. Not saying it was bad, but it was kind of a neutral. It's more apathetic. Um and and and as far as
085merit goes, the educational system, I know I work in it. Uh as far as people that work in it, it doesn't often uh reward merit. you know, it's just people that can play the game well, that know the system well, that know the bylaws and all that stuff well, uh, that maybe have some credentials and say all the right things. But AZ is a man of merit. I could say right now, I've worked with some good ads, I've seen some other ads, he's the best, the best I've ever seen. Uh, and then the last thing I'll say, I know only got a short amount of time, and I think the kids should talk. Uh, this, you know, local elections actually matter. I teach government, and I didn't think they did. be focused on the presidential
086election, all that kind of stuff. Uh you could see school board has a direct effect on your lives. Um so take the time to know who you're voting for. I would say definitely vote. I'm not saying specific to anybody up here. I don't know them. Uh they could be fine. Um but this has a huge impact on your lives. So think about that. Uh when you're 18, you're old enough to vote. And don't just just cuz someone's running and they want to be in charge of something doesn't mean they're qualified or going to make the best decisions on your behalf. Maybe some there's some people out there that can run. Uh that's all I got to say. I think getting rid of AZ would be a travesty for Milford and uh I know he's watching
087AZ. We support you, buddy. [applause] >> Next, please [applause] Tom. >> Next, please. >> Can I ask for my daughter? Is she Is she on here? >> I'm going in order. So, if she's on, did she give me a green sheet of paper? >> You did. That's up to you. >> Uh, is that okay with the board? >> Yeah, I mean, she's got a piece of paper. >> Yes, that's fine. >> Who Who doesn't love Olivia? [applause] Hello, my name is Olivia Za and I'm a senior here at the high school. You might recognize my name from my sideline athletic reporting for our athletic program. But today I'm here to talk about something different. I know there's a lot of information out there regarding Zupka's actions or lack of and I'm sad by what I've
088heard and I know and I'm sad of how it's handled. But I'm not here to talk about that. I'm here to talk about the impact he has made on my life. I could talk on and on about Aaron Zupka and the amazing things he has done. But instead, I focused on the most impactful thing he has done for me. I met Zupka the beginning of my junior year, and I had been in Milford and doing sports, but I had never really been to the athletic office, but I decided I was going to change that one day. When I had the idea that I wanted to be able to do student athlete interviews, I had asked the principal at the time if I could do a news interview or find a way to interview people. Unfortunately,
089that was turned down. When football season kicked off, I realized that I wanted to find a way to ask student athletes questions while also getting their voices heard. That was when I asked Zupka and he gave me the go-ahad. He could have shot down my idea, but he didn't. He gave me this opportunity to shine while he hopes it's successful. He also gave me the motivation to want to stay at Milford instead of transferring midway through my junior year. Now, as I'm looking ahead at colleges, I have a strong desire to go into sports broadcasting. Since then, I have grown a relationship with him and the entire athletic department staff. Whether that is helping them out with pregame setup or filming bits and pieces of a game, Zupka has given me so many opportunities. I
090know hearing from one person isn't enough, but Zupka has but he has done so much to keep this community a wonderful place. Zupka spends countless hours at school, even he even though he has a young family and a wife at home. He does so much for every single team. Whether that is showing up to a sporting event that is an hour or two hours away or one that is being rehosted right here in Milford. Everybody needs an Aaron Zupka in their life. Milford was blessed to have one. I think it should stay that way. Thank you so much for hearing me out tonight. [applause] >> Julie, >> next please. Julie. My name is Julie. I am a parent of an athlete and a taxpayer. And I do want to comment on the people who are
091calling me a monster from my viewpoint. I know Zupka. I know his wife. I know his two daughters. So this is bit personal for me. When you say that he's a monster and you tear down his character when he is a father and a husband, have you gotten the chance to know him? Have you gotten the chance to talk to him? Because all these athletes here, they've gotten a chance to talk to him. They got a chance to know him. They He's given them hope. He's made them believe that they can go to the collegiic level. No matter what college that is, they can live their dream to go beyond here. I did have something written, but I was really moved by what Zupka's friends said, but I was also a bit hurt by somebody
092calling me a monster because I know somebody's character. I know their family. I know who they are. He has done everything possible for this school, for the athletes. I have three swimmers. And when COVID hit, two of my swimmers did not think college was possible. It was so hard to get back into training and to do everything that they needed to do. But Zuck believed in them. He was calling them the my son and daughter, the sibling duos. And he was doing all of these things to promote my children and to get them to live their dream at the collegiic level. It was uncertain. We weren't sure if they were going to do it, but they made it. They went to the Ohio State University, their dream college, because Zupka believed in them. He got
093them there. Not only that, my oldest was able to compete in the 2024 Olympic trials. Zupka believed in him and he would call him, he would talk to him, he would support him and everything. When he found out he made the Olympic trials, Zupka texted my son congratulating him. That's the kind of person he is. He cares about every single one of you. He cares about every single one of your dreams. He treats you guys like your family. And he has never ever done anything but good for this community and the school. And I will say the previous AD that we had when my two children made it to state, he had no idea who my children were. No idea. But Zupka makes a point to know every single one of you. Every single one
094of you on a personal level. And that's why I'm here supporting him because he's a great man, a great person, and we need Zupka here to continue to take care of our student athletes and our coaches. Thank you. [applause] >> Next, Audrey. Good evening everyone. My name is Audrey Fox and I'm here tonight to speak on behalf of Aaron Zepka and the lasting impact he has had on me, not only as a student and athlete, but as a person. When Aaron first arrived at Milford, the diving program received very little recognition or publicity. Our team was small with fewer than six divers. From day one, Aaron worked tirelessly to build our program into what it is today. I wholeheartedly believe that his leadership and his dedication are the reason we've experienced the success we have.
095He treats every athlete with utmost respect and genuine care. Aaron has personally arranged numerous interviews for my teammates and I, as well as increased media coverage to highlight and promote our program. He continuously goes above and beyond for all athletes, no matter the sport. True leadership reveals itself in times of challenge, and Aaron has faced every challenge headon, no matter the circumstances. As some of you may know, I've attended the state diving competition for the past three years. Each year, swimming and diving compete on different days, meaning twice the travel and twice the commitment. The trip to Kan, Ohio is not an easy one. Yet, Aaron has consistently taken his personal time to attend both meets. His presence was never required, but he chose to be there to support us. That simple act speaks volumes
096about the kind of leader and person he is. On a more personal note, Aaron has been a huge in helping me achieve my lifelong goal, earning the opportunity to dive for the United States Naval Academy, one of the most prestigious institutions in the nation. While that dream may have seemed farfetched to others at the time, Aaron never doubted me. His encouragement, guidance, and belief in me play played a major role in helping me achieve that level of competition. When he began, our diving boards were extremely outdated and unsafe, over 25 years old. He immediately took initiative to replace them, ensuring our facility met proper safety safety standards. In addition, Aaron has upgraded all of our uniforms and state jackets, even encouraging us to pose in them after dive meets for Instagram. This visibility and pride
097in our program is something I've never experienced before and it is truly unmatched. Beyond his impact on individual athletes, Aaron has strengthened the entire athletic community at Milford. He's united coaches, athletes, and families under one vision of excellence. One that values effort, sportsmanship, and pride in our school. He doesn't just manage programs, he builds relationships. He celebrates every athlete success, big or small. That sense of inclusivity is and support is rare, and it's something our school thrives on. Aaron's leadership extends far beyond wins, records, or trophies. His influence has shaped a culture of dedication, integrity, and respect that I that will continue long after any of us graduate. I can say with complete confidence that our athletic department and our school community is stronger because of him. Thank you [applause] >> Grace. [clears throat] >>
098Hello, my name is Grace Ham and I'm a senior at Milford High School. But as an elected class officer, an avid member of many clubs and activities within Milford High School, a captain of the varsity volleyball team, I stand up here to speak for my peers. Living in Milford my entire life, and being an athlete for the past six years, I have seen firsthand how Aaron Zeba has transformed our athletic programs and thus our community. I have never, and I mean never, met a student or coach who does not adore Zeba in the way he advocates for his athletes and transforms our athletic programs. So, with that being said, it would be wrong if I was not standing up here advocating for him the way he advocated for all of us over the past years.
099I've had numerous people tell me that he is one of the best athletic directors in the state of Ohio, and I agree. I've always known him to go above and beyond, and I believe that his work speaks for itself. Winning three all sports ECC trophies in the past four years and never having won one before his arrival is a testament to the work he has put into all of our programs, not just the big ones like football and basketball. Milford athletics is extensive, but he makes an effort to know each and every one of us. I can testify that his visibility within the community and willingness to spend every single night courtside or fieldside supporting our athletes in live reporting scores is one of the many examples of his dedication to Milford as a community.
100Between the students at Milford High School, we say no one loves their job as much as Aaron Zeba. And that's the truth. Whether it's coordinating spirit buses, highlighting the achievements of athletes, or even seeking support academically, he is your guy. He has a sense of compassion towards each player that is unmatchable by anything that my friends at other schools have ever experienced. Last year when the volleyball program decided to make a coaching change, he made sure every athlete felt heard and made sure that we ended up with an amazing coaching staff and had a great experience. I mean it when I say he is truly irreplaceable. To the Milford School Board, I have the utmost respect for your judgment and decisions, but I wholeheartedly believe that the termination of Aaron Zepka's contract is the wrong
101decision. You were elected to represent us in our best interest, so please do not let us down. I am a senior in my season just ended, so this decision will never impact me. But I am standing up here because I've always been taught to stand up for what I believe in. And I fully believe that Aaron Zepka is irreplaceable and as good as an athletic director that Milford is going to get in firing him. Milford Athletics would lose an irreoverable amount of culture and passion. This is your opportunity to write a wrong and demonstrate your loyalty towards the athletic director that has flipped the script for Milford Athletics and created a community within Milford High School that my peers and I will carry with us for the rest of our lives. Thank you. >> [applause]
102>> Next, please. >> Megan. >> Oh, is that time? >> We have two minutes. >> Okay. >> Are there more students on there? Because I will give up my spot. Let a student speak. Uh Rebecca, Natalie, John, >> do I have Sorry. Do I have a motion to extend the time? >> So moved. >> Please call the role. >> Mrs. Will? >> Yes. >> Mrs. Powers? >> Yes. >> Mr. Wilson? >> Yes. >> Mrs. Chestnut? >> Yes. Mrs. Mason. >> Yes. >> Go ahead. >> You still only have the three minutes, but >> uh Okay. Good evening, members of the school board, our superintendent, and fellow community members. My name is Megan Stillwell, and I reside here locally in Milford. I am the swimming coach and aquatics coordinator within the school district. I stand you
103before you tonight to speak as an employee, and a parent of the district, and someone deeply invested in the culture and success not only of our athletic programs, but of our entire school district. I'm here to urge you to retain Aaron Zepka as our high school athletic director. As a staff member, I first must express my confusion and concern that there has been no communication to the coaching staff regarding his absence. All I know is our athletic director is not currently in his office supporting our athletic programs as he has done so consistently in the past. So, I'm speaking solely from the viewpoint of the experience I've had while working under Aaron Zupka. But, I can tell you that his absence is felt across the department and highlights just how essential his daily presence is
104and proactive management styles are to our operations. My primary reason for joining this district and indeed for staying is the environment fostered by Aaron Zupka. Leadership goes beyond typical administration duties. They cultivate a culture where every sport is valued and given resources needed to thrive. This comprehensive support structure has a direct positive impact on our students and our community. We recently had a prime example of this and this success, our 2025 state championship swimmer Brady Campbell. Three years ago, Brady was heavily recruited by private schools that promised superior facilities and more attention. But his family chose to stay here in a public school system because of the personal investment and elevated status our athletic director gives to the swimming program. This is a testament to the fact that when a student feel valued and supported,
105they stay where they belong. I actually come from a local different school a local public school different from here where the athletic leadership and school board has a different philosophy. Small sports were not valued. They were overlooked and underfunded. The result of that neglect is a stark invisible. There is currently a pool sitting empty in the basement of that school, a symbol of wasted potential and administrative indifference. That school, which used to consistently place in the top 10 at state meet, didn't even have a single female qualified districts for the first time ever in their school history. This only happened because they did not elevate every program like Aaron Zupka does. We must not let history repeat itself. Aaron Zupka understands the holistic value of high school athletics. He fosters an environment where character development,
106sportsmanship, and students well-beings are important, if not more so, than winning. I am aware that leadership positions in athletics can be challenging and often subject to public scrutiny. However, I've never witnessed anything but a positive and supportive culture put in place by Aaron Zupka. He works tirelessly to support his coaching staff, but more importantly, student athletes. When you have an AD that cares so deeply about these athletes, this in turn helps promote positive feelings towards a school district through not only the athletes involved, but their entire families who live and vote in this district. From my personal experience, all I have seen as an athletic director who is a proven asset to our community and a major reason why employees like me and students like our state champion chose this district. I implore you to
107recognize the immense value Aaron brings to our schools and to keep it at the helm of our athletic department. Thank you so much for your time and consideration. [applause] Rebecca. >> Hello. My name is Rebecca. I'm a Milford resident, voter, mother, and the proud coach of the high school girls lacrosse team. Thank you for the opportunity to speak tonight. Since learning about the possible termination of Arum Zupka, I thought about a lot about what I wanted to say. First, I want to lead with compassion and grace for everyone involved in the initial girls wrestling situation, for Aaron Zupka, the board members, the school, and most importantly, the students. Before I share how Aaron has impacted me personally, my team, and our program, I want to address something I continue to witness within our district and
108school board. It uh sorry uh oh, sorry. I continue I want to address something I continue to witness as both a resident and a parent. The lack of transparency and openness within our district and our schoolboard. It is single-handedly breaking the trust the public once had. I truly believe much of this situation and others could have been avoided through honesty, openness, and communication. As a voter and a resident, I am disheartened to see this unfold and to echo that local elections do matter. This is not political. This is not about sides. It's about doing what's right for our students and our community. We must stop letting division and the noise of social media keyboard warriors guide our decisions. We need board members who can stand up for our students. I understand this job is not
109easy. But when we continue to fail levies, when we hear of scandals and appear hidden from the public, and when rumors spread unchecked, trust erodess. Too often, people are judged and condemned in the court of the public opinion before facts are even known. And sadly, those facts are rarely shared with us. We forget that behind every headline is a human being, a father, a husband, a colleague. When I bought my house in 2019, I was proud to say I was in the Milford school district. I wanted my future children to attend what I believed was one of the best districts around. Now, as a single mom to a four-year-old, I can honestly say unless there's meaningful change, he will never step foot in Milford schools. Now, to the impact Aaron Zupka has had on me
110and my program. Aaron is the ultimate leader, an incredible boss, mentor, and athletic director. He values every program and every student. I've seen discrimination and indifference towards women's sports and other athletic departments, less field time, no locker rooms, and general lack of support. Aaron is the opposite of that. He shows up. He advocates for us. He supports my players, listens to their concerns, encourages their ideas, and champions every accomplishment. He makes sure we know that we matter. And that is one of the greatest lessons a young woman can carry into adulthood. He challenges me to become a better person, mother, and coach. He's taught me how to lead with compassion, how to communicate without conflict, and how to truly listen to other perspectives. Thank you for allowing me to speak tonight. Milford Athletics is what
111it is because of Erin Zepka. I respectfully ask that you reconsider ever terminating him for the sake of the students, the staff, and the future of Milford Athletics. Natalie. [applause] >> Hello, my name is Natalie Tupelli and I'm a senior at Milford High School. I am here to speak on behalf of Aaron Zepka. I am the senior class president. I have been a varsity lacrosse player all four years of high school and my sophomore and junior year I was also a varsity lacrosse captain. I'm very familiar with my school and the students inside of it. And I'm very familiar with our athletic department. I am here today to act as a voice for my fellow students, a voice that comes from inside of the high school. I ask you to please listen with an open
112mind and to hear out the students who will be affected by your decision. I firmly believe that Zupka is the best athletic director Milford could have. In his time at Milford, he has completely transformed our athletics. Whether it has been pushing for Miranda or Charity Lucas or the new stadium, he has continued to give his all into bettering the school. My personal experience with Zupka began my freshman year. Our lacrosse team was not meeting the expectations that both players and parents felt it should be. Zupka patiently heard out each and every parent and player and brought in a fresh coaching staff whom I believed to be the best in the entire state. Our team was completely turned around. When I had previously questioned even continuing my lacrosse career, this quickly became the furthest thing out
113out of my mind. And yes, my coaches are a huge part of this, but this began with Sepka. Just recently, we had our lacrosse meeting for this season. There's one specific moment that I would like to highlight. As a team, we believe we need to play with more unity this year, and my coaches said that this coming season, we wouldn't celebrate individual achievements until the end of the year. We need to focus on winning as a team instead of isolating ourselves. But I bring this up because of what my coaches said next. They said, "We know you deserve recognition, and we know that Zupkco will have you covered." This is my story, but it is not unique to me. Every athlete under Milford High School's roof, Zupkco watches out for. He knows all of us
114by name. He stays up to date and most importantly gives us the recognition all these athletes deserve. He puts us first. I'm an elected representative for the student body, arguably the highest. And I urge you to consider how we will be affected. As students, we feel comfortable to stand up here and to speak for RAD. If you stand for your students, I urge you to value our opinions. Thank you, [applause] >> John. John, >> that's not in our policy. All right, that's it. >> All right, thank you. >> Oh, I'm sorry. >> Yeah, so I'm John Blow. I'm one of the uh lacrosse coaches. Um I've coached for about the last 11 years. I've coached from Walnut Hills to Dublin Jerome to here. Uh one thing I've never seen at any of those schools is
115an AD helping set up a JV field, taking tarps off the field, take getting stuff out of the uh shed where other co coaches aren't or other ads have never showed up at any other other schools I've been to. The character of the man, he's not even here to defend himself, but this whole community is. I think you need to take that in consideration not just some off key like someone said keyboard warriors and listen listen to your public and your students the student body and make the right decision. THANKS. [applause] >> Thank you. Um that concludes our public participation. I'm going to bring us back to our agenda. I have um two points that I want to clarify. The first is regarding um secret meetings. To clarify, the board does not hold any secret
116meetings. All of our meetings are publicly announced and open to the public except for limited executive sessions as permitted by Ohio law for six topics that are outlined by Ohio law. So, no votes or decisions are ever made in private in those meetings. And then secondly, um I just want to make sure that expectations are clear moving forward. The board has an obligation to our policy BDC, which prohibits the discussion of individual personnel matters in public. We understand people are looking for answers, but we cannot and will not violate confidentiality policies that date back to 1990. What we can say is that this matter does not involve student safety or financial issues. Beyond that, we are unable to comment and we ask that everyone respect those legal boundaries as we continue the meeting. Um, so
117next, do we have any discussion? >> Nope. >> Okay. I do have one thing to close out. >> I would just like to um share a brief update on our superintendent search process. This week, we completed our first round of interviews with all six candidates. We had an 18 member panel made up of teachers, students, community members, staff and our building principles and they participated in those interviews and provided valuable perspectives for the board to consider um which we will be hearing those perspectives. Uh next week the board of education will conduct our interviews with the candidates and from there we expect to narrow the field down to two or three finalists. Once the finalists are selected, we will host a meet the candidates night where our community will have the opportunity to hear from
118the candidates themselves and provide feedback before the board makes a final decision. I want to thank everyone who's been part of this process so far and we will continue to keep our community informed as we move forward. Our next board special meeting will be November 19th of 2025 and that will be here at the administrative office at 6:00 pm. And then our next regular board meeting will be December 18th, 2025 and that will be here in the administrative office as well. Um, next I will need a motion to go into um, executive session for the purposes of employment of a public employee. >> And I did want to say quickly uh, it takes a lot of courage for the students to get up there and talk today. So very good on all of you guys.
119SO [applause] that's all I have to say. >> All right. And um just to clarify, we won't be coming back to vote on anything or make any decisions tonight. Um we will just be coming back to adjourn. Um so I need a motion to withdraw into executive session. >> So moved. >> Second. Please call the role. >> Mrs. Will? >> Yes. >> Mrs. Powers? >> Yes. >> Mr. Wilson? >> Yes. >> Mrs. Chestnut? >> Yes. >> Mrs. Mason? >> Yes.