Committee/ Council Observed: Kent City School Board
Date of Meeting: 3/19/2024
Format: Virtual
Meeting Summary:
The meeting began at 6:00 PM with roll call and recitation of the Pledge of Allegiance. A moment of silence was observed to honor former board member, Marlene Dorsey, who had recently passed away. Assistant Superintendent Justin Gates introduced and welcomed board members, administrators, teachers, and guests. Minutes were voted on and approved.
SUPERINTENDENT’S REPORT
Teachers from Longcoy and Walls were introduced and presented the Spellography program which is being implemented throughout the district. It had become apparent that there needed to be more focus on the 4th and 5th grade spelling curriculum. This began as a standard spelling program and has evolved to present the Layers of Language:1.Phonology(sounds). 2. Tied to print. 3. Meanings. 4. Syntax to make language understandable. Student progress is being documented to gauge success.
The plans for the Advanced Manufacturing addition are underway
The district will be supplying Eclipse glasses for all teachers, staff and students.
FINANCIAL REPORT
Debby Krutz presented a comprehensive report on the district’s finances. The cash summary as of February 29th showed the General Fund at 6.3 million in real estate tax advances, down from 2023’s 7.1 million, but more is coming. The permanent improvement fund stands at $345,000 which means an advance may be needed to complete the Longcoy roofing project. Krutz also stated that it was a good year for interest on investments, and she expects interest rates to hold. Presently, the Star Ohio rate stands at 5.49% but is trending down slightly.
Voted on and approved
RESIGNATIONS, RETIREMENTS, APPOINTMENTS AND TRANSFERS
Some names were presented in these areas as were applications for substitutes. Background checks will be performed before certification of substitutes.
VOTED ON AND APPROVED
BOARD RESOLUTION REGARDING COMMERCIAL PROPERTY
There is a new procedure for tax evaluation increases. A resolution must be adopted for each parcel individually.
VOTED ON AND APPROVED
INSTRUCTIONAL MATERIAL
The board has reviewed the instructional materials for the math curriculum that were previously presented at the last meeting.
VOTED ON AND APPROVED
HARDWARE
Board to review tech updates before entering into an agreement with the supplier. Will consider a vote at the next meeting.
SOFT DRINK CONTRACT
The district will enter into another five-year contract with Pepsi. They have been pleased with their service, especially their support of the Boosters. Coke was another consideration, but its service and benefits could not match Pepsi’s.
VOTED ON AND APPROVED
HALL OF FAME
April 5, 2025, is the scheduled date for the Kent City Schools Hall of Fame induction.
VOTED ON AND APPROVED
FIELD TRIPS
Healthcare and Fitness, Student Council, and Health Career Tech’s trip to Columbus are asking for approval. Next month, DECA will be requesting approval to send 13 students to California.
VOTED ON AND APPROVED
MISCELLANEOUS
$7,645.20 was received in donations from a very generous Kent community.
VOTED ON AND APPROVED
Superintendent Tom Larkin thanked Principal Swan, her staff, and students for hosting the March Board of Education meeting.
ADJOURN
Which members of the board/council were present: Brian Boykin, Colin Boyle, Alicia Crowe, Tiera Moore. Absent was Rebekah Wright Kulis.
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