Committee/ Council Observed: Kent City School Board

Date of Meeting: 6/17/2025

Format: Virtual

Meeting Summary:

The board meeting was called to order at 5:30 with roll call and recitation of the Pledge of Allegiance. Dr. Justin Gates introduced board members, administrators, and staff.
Minutes were voted on and approved.

SUPERINTENDENT’S REPORT
Superintendent Tom Larkin introduced the new principal for Holden Elementary, Mr. Devita, who comes with an impressive resume and background. Notable qualities include his visibility in the school, his dedication, and concern for the children.

SCHOOL BUS RODEO
Business Director Jim Soyers reported on the recent school bus rodeo. Kent had 6 participants, and the district placed 2nd overall. The next rodeo will be held on Oct 4th, hosted by Kent.

FINANCIAL REPORT
Cash Summary. The Uniform School Supply Fund has a balance of $90,000 and may not require a transfer of funds, despite the balance being lower than last year. Federal grants are running in a deficit, but Kent may receive additional funding from the state. The Star Ohio interest rate stands at 4.46%, which is lower than last year; however, rates do not seem to be falling as quickly as predicted. The Federal interest rate remains steady and is not expected to change until at least September.

BILLS. Voted on and approved

CONSIDER RESOLUTION TO CLOSE FISCAL YEAR
The current fiscal year will close on June 30. Voted on and approved.

CONSIDER RESOLUTION TO BEGIN SPENDING BEFORE SEPTEMBER. Voted on and approved.

CONSIDER RESOLUTION TO ESTABLISH CAPITAL PROJECT FUND
This is a new item that will become an annual request. There is a lengthy list of needed projects to maintain facilities. This is a way to set aside funds to do projects as needed

PERSONNEL
There were some resignations, transfers, and some applications for subs. No leaves of absence were requested and voted on and approved.

KENT FREE LIBRARY
Kent City Schools manages the budget for the Kent Free Library. They are asking for an outlay of $700,000. Voted on and approved

CONSIDER MEMORANDUM OF UNDERSTANDING FOR THE NATIONAL YOUTH ADVOCACY PROGRAM
This will enable the district to provide four mental health professionals. Voted on and approved.

FAITHFUL PERFORMANCE BOND
This is a 3-year agreement for the new treasurer. Voted on and approved.

MAIL SERVICE
Jim Soyers recommends renewing the 6-month contract with Pitney Bose to provide the postage meter used by the district. Voted on and approved.

TECH SUPPORT
It was recommended to stay with Axcess and enter into a 36-month agreement with them. Voted on and approved.

JOB DESCRIPTION
The new CTE secretary will have a revised job description outlining her duties. Voted on and approved.

LUNCH PROGRAM
The district will continue in this program and will be reimbursed for meals. Voted on and approved.

TRANSPORTATION
Instead of providing transportation to Cornerstone and various other schools, the district will reimburse those parents. Voted on and approved.

INSURANCE
Liberty Mutual remains the best option for providing liability insurance for the district. Voted on and approved.

ARCHITECTURE SERVICES
It has been decided to install fencing around the module at Holden Elementary, rather than the other options presented. Other plans included moving the module closer to the building and installing new doors. These options may be considered at a later date. A new porch/ramp will be installed. Voted on and approved.

MEMORANDUM OF UNDERSTANDING FOR PSYCHOLOGICAL SERVICES
Christine Randall’s hours will be increased from 60% to 100% but may decrease as the caseload decreases. Voted on and approved.

OSBA POLICIES. Voted on and approved

CONSIDER RESOLUTION FOR CHANGE ORDER
Regarding the CTE construction project, the electrical bus bar is currently on backorder, so the alternative solution will remain in place, saving the district $17,300. These funds may be used to purchase industrial tool cabinets. Voted on and approved.

FIELD TRIPS
No requests at this time.

MISCELLANEOUS
Donations totaling $10,000 were received from a generous Kent community. Voted on and approved.

ADJOURN

Which members of the board/council were present? Colin Boyle, Alicia Crowe, Tiera Moore, Rebekah Wright Kulis. Absent was David Myers, no reason given

Was there a public notice of the meeting that included the time and place of meeting: Yes

Was an agenda of the meeting or handouts available to visitors: Yes

Are minutes from previous meetings posted/available: Yes

https://go.boarddocs.com/oh/kentcs/Board.nsf/Public

Name of Observer: Mary Myers