Kent City Schools Board of Education
Date: 6/16/2026
Format: Virtual
Summary:
The meeting was called to order at 5:30 with roll call, recitation of the Pledge of Allegiance, and introduction of administrators, staff, and visitors. Minutes were voted on and approved with John Avouris abstaining.
SUPERINTENDENT REPORT
Superintendent Tom Larkin recognized the RHS track and field team, which had 7 state qualifiers this season.
THREE YEAR STRATEGIC PLAN
Linda Paulus presented information on progress in attendance, science, math, and social studies. She praised the District Leadership Team for their efforts in compiling statistics showing gains and improvements in these areas. Absenteeism was down from last year’s 27% to 24% this year. She felt the district may still be seeing the effects of students being home during the COVID lockdown. Tom Larkin praised Linda Paulus for her hard work and service as she prepares to retire.
FINANCIAL REPORT
Erin VanMeter presented details on the district’s finances as the fiscal year closes on June 30. The majority of tax funds have been received; appropriations are slightly under budget, but Star Ohio investments are down to 3.79% from 3.80% last year. She feels that the Fed rate may hold steady, but an increase may be in the offing in order to hold down inflation. Voted on and approved
APPROVAL OF THE BILLS
Expenses were higher because there were 5 pay periods last month. The roofing and dehumidifier projects at RHS were among the other expenses. Voted on and approved
HB 413
No student’s names will be on purchase order requests, but more detail is needed in future purchase order requests as to what exactly is being requested. Authorization for the final budget will occur at the end of June. Voted on and approved
CONSIDER TEMPORARY APPROPRIATIONS
Voted on and approved
PERSONNEL
There were some resignations, 3 retirements, no leaves of absence, no sub requests, and some transfers. Tom Larkin recognized the following retirees: Laurie Perison (3rd grade Davey), Bonnie Miller ( Ed aide Davey), Diana Howe (Ed aide)
ACTION ITEMS
Social Studies Instructional materials for Stanton will be considered at the July meeting.
ACTIVITY BUS
A community member is proposing raising funds to purchase an activity bus to transport students to various extracurricular activities. This will not be an ordinary yellow school bus, and hopefully this will increase student participation, especially in sports.
LIBRARY BUDGET
There was a 5% increase in expenses. Voted on and approved
Consider a memorandum of understanding with Hiram College
The district will cooperate with Hiram College for providing student teachers. Voted on and approved
Consider a memorandum of understanding for psychological services
Psychologist Christine Randall’s time will be increased from 60% to 100%. Voted on and approved.
Consider a memorandum of understanding with National Youth Advocate. Voted on and approved
Consider a memorandum of understanding with St Patrick’s School
School psychologist services will be discontinued, but nursing services will continue. Voted on and approved.
Consider a memorandum of understanding with the National School Lunch Program
The district will continue to be reimbursed for school lunches. Voted on and approved.
Consider a memorandum of understanding for insurance
The district will not renew with Liberty Mutual, but will have a 3-year agreement with CACH to provide services. Voted on and approved
SURPLUS STUFF
A list of items no longer needed or used by the district will be created, posted on an auction site, and opened for bids. Voted on and approved
TRANSPORTATION
The parent of a special education student will continue to provide transportation outside of the district. Voted on and approved.
NEW RHS CLUB
A new yoga club will be established at RHS. Voted on and approved.
NO REQUESTS FOR FIELD TRIPS WERE RECEIVED.
DONATIONS
13 donations were received from a very generous Kent community. In addition to the monetary donations, a customized bus for the district is also being included. Voted on and approved.
On June 30th at 8:00 AM the Board will convene to close this fiscal year
ADJOURN
Members Present: Rebekah Wright Kulis, David Myers, John Avouris, PJ Errara
Absent: Alicia Crowe. No reason stated
Public Notice: Yes
Agenda: Yes
Minutes: Yes
Observer: Mary Myers