Kent City Schools Board of Education
Date: 9/15/2026
Format: Virtual
Summary:
The September 15, 2026, board meeting at Davey Elementary was called to order at 6:00 PM with roll call and the Pledge of Allegiance. Dr. Justin Gates introduced the board, administrators, and staff. The board delayed approval of the previous minutes until the next meeting.
SUPERINTENDENT’S REPORT
Davey principal Barb Flowers, 5th grade teacher Julie Gray, speech therapist Kristen Caipen, and several 6th grade students gave a presentation explaining the Communication Buddies program, which is beginning its 3rd year at Davey. The program focuses on inclusiveness, pairing 5th graders with students who use communication devices. Students learn about the devices and how to support their buddies in class and during speech therapy sessions. The program has many benefits, especially because the children are exposed to different ways children can communicate. This has created a more inclusive environment at Davey.
AUDIO EQUIPMENT
Jim Soyers addressed poor audio quality during audio-streamed board meetings. Two quotes for $10,000 were received to solve the problem but Mr. Soyers, by purchasing a microphone for under a $1,000, was able to greatly improve the quality and volume of the audio streamed board meetings.
WEB SITE DEVELOPMENT
Mr. Soyers is reviewing Smart Sites as a potential website and is hoping to make changes to improve the accessibility of informational sites.
OHIO DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION
For the 4th consecutive year, Kent Schools has received a 4.5-star overall state report card rating. Several specific areas received 5-star ratings, including progress, Roosevelt High School, and graduation rate, but literacy received only a 2-star rating.
FINANCIAL REPORT
Treasurer Erin VanMeter presented the district's financial picture. Revenue from real estate taxes is still delayed. Interest revenue from the Star Ohio account is significantly lower than last year, but expenses were below the projected amount. Ms. VanMeter is looking into Red Tree Investment Company to potentially move some of the Star Ohio funds to achieve a greater return. Voted on and approved
PERSONNEL
No resignations or requests for leave of absence. There were some transfer requests and some substitute teacher applications. Voted on and approved.
ACTION ITEMS
APPROPRIATIONS
Expenditures cannot exceed a permanently set amount. Voted on and approved.
ACTIVITY BUDGET
The district oversees the money, and all of this information is kept in a binder which can be viewed. The district must deposit profits from any fundraiser into the club/activity’s account. Voted on and approved.
TITLE 1 MEMORANDUM OF UNDERSTANDING
The district is entering into a shared funding relationship with Ravenna City Schools. Voted on and approved.
RESOLUTION WITH SPECIAL EDUCATION LAW, POLICY AND PROCEDURES
Dr. Gates stated that this is an annual item to ensure the district remains in compliance with the law. Voted on and approved.
RESOLUTION WITH THE OHIO SCHOOLS COUNCIL
This pertains to receiving bids for the future purchase of three new buses. More details will follow. Voted on and approved.
CONSIDER PAYMENT IN LIEU OF TRANSPORTATION
It is more economical to pay parents at the end of the year in lieu of transportation. Voted on and approved.
FIELD TRIPS
There were 2 requests for approval. The committee considered both the annual Roosevelt Leadership Retreat and the Roosevelt ice hockey tournament in Toledo. Voted on and approved.
MISCELLANEOUS
23 donations were received from a very generous Kent community. Voted on and approved.
ADJOURN.
Members Present: Alecia Crowe, David Myers, John Avouris, PJ Errara
Absent: Rebekah Wright Kulis. No reason given
Public Notice: Yes
Agenda: Yes
Minutes: Yes
Observer: Mary Myers