12/11/2025 - Streetsboro Board of Education - Observer Corps Report

12/11/2025 - Streetsboro Board of Education - Observer Corps Report

Type: 
Blog Post

Streetsboro Board of Education Regular Meeting

Date of Meeting: 12/11/2025

Format: In-person

Meeting Summary:

The Regular Meeting of the Streetsboro Board of Education was called to order on December 11, 2025 at 5:45 PM.

PUBLIC COMMENTS: A concerned parent, the mother of a sixth and eighth grader, spoke about the negative impact recent cuts to extracurricular activities have had on her children. Both students went from having active extracurricular involvement to none. She urged the Board to explore creative ways to reinstate activities, including the use of booster funds or fundraising. She specifically noted the elimination of Jazz Band and Pep Band, expressing concern that cuts threaten the progress and growth of the district’s music programs.

The President of the Band Boosters also addressed the Board, emphasizing the importance of music and the arts in childhood education. While acknowledging the district’s financial challenges, she highlighted that these programs provide students with a sense of belonging and safety. She encouraged the Board to consider options such as participant fees or community assistance to keep the programs intact.

A senior student also spoke, expressing appreciation for the support she has received from faculty and staff during her time at Streetsboro.

The minutes from the 11/13/2025 Regular Meeting were approved.

SUPERINTENDENT’S REPORT: Middle School students were recognized for induction into the National Junior Honor Society. A student representative presented on the group’s year-round service projects, including the Giving Tree program, which provided gifts to over 450 families, a Turkey Drive, and participation in the Veterans Day program. Veterans and guests were treated to a breakfast donated by Bob Evans, followed by an assembly honoring veterans.

The Middle School held a door decorating contest with strong participation from both students and staff.

Recognition was given to Board President Kristin Bedford, who is stepping down from the presidency at the end of the year.

The Superintendent, Treasurer, and Chief Business Officer jointly presented a detailed overview of the district’s fiscal challenges. The phasing out of the tangible personal property (TPP) tax beginning in 2010 has resulted in cumulative losses exceeding $33 million. Casino revenue intended to offset this loss has never exceeded approximately $160,000 annually. Rising costs, including inflation, salaries and benefits, and mandated services, have further strained the General Fund.

Cost-saving measures were outlined, including $1,496,000 saved through staff reductions, elimination of 17 positions with four added for necessity, $219,180 saved through contract negotiations and purchasing consortiums, and $553,000 saved through participation in the Ohio Schools Consortium. Since FY20, nearly 50 grants have generated $1,363,000 in funding. Community donations and partnerships supported graduation activities. Despite these efforts, savings are insufficient to offset funding losses.

Phase I cuts were implemented in November 2025 as required by the state. A proposed $7 million levy will be placed before voters, costing homeowners approximately $245 per $100,000 of assessed value. If passed, the levy would stabilize finances through FY2030. If it fails, additional cuts may include further staffing reductions, elimination of extracurricular activities and athletics, increased pay-to-play fees, elimination of transportation, half-day kindergarten, and elimination of after-hours building use.

TREASURER’S REPORT: The General Fund balance stands at $9.6 million, the lowest level in some time.

CHIEF BUSINESS OFFICER REPORT: Rental agreements with On Your Toes Dance Studio were presented, and the Food Service report was provided for Board review and approval.

BOARD REPORTS: The Finance Committee is meeting monthly and providing factual information to the Levy Committee. The Educational Foundation has grants available and students are encouraged to apply. The annual organizational meeting will be held on January 8, 2026, prior to the regular board meeting. Tracy Campbell will serve as President Pro Tempore at the next meeting until a new president is selected.

Consent Agenda Items B–M were approved.

There was no OLD BUSINESS.

There was no NEW BUSINESS.

The meeting was adjourned into Executive Session at 6:55 PM.

The following members of the board/council were present: Kristin Bedford, Tracy Campbell, Sara Scott, Tonia Epple, and Kelly Rich. All board members were present.

Were any media representatives present? No

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/streetsboro/Board.nsf/Public

Name of Observer: Diana L. Skok

League to which this content belongs: 
Kent