Meeting Details
April 17, 2025
5:30pm - 6:30pm
1 hr
Lincoln Administrative Center
Purpose
N/A
1.
Call to Order
Minutes
Mr. Blankenship called the meeting to order at 5:30 p.m.
1.1
Roll Call
Minutes
All Board of Education members were present except Chad Redmon.
1.2
Pledge of Allegiance
Minutes
Mr. Blankenship led the Pledge of Allegiance.
2.
Approval of Board Agenda
Minutes
Result: Approved
Motioned: Ms. Jenna Bollinger, Board Member
Seconded: Mrs. Morgan Jones, Board Member
| Voter | Yes | No | Abstaining |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mr. Randy Blankenship, President | X | ||
| Mrs. Christa Graves, Board Member | X | ||
| Mrs. Morgan Jones, Board Member | X | ||
| Ms. Jenna Bollinger, Board Member | X | ||
| Mr. Chad Redmon, Board Member |
3.
Approval of Board Minutes
Minutes
Result: Approved
Motioned: Mrs. Morgan Jones, Board Member
Seconded: Ms. Jenna Bollinger, Board Member
| Voter | Yes | No | Abstaining |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mr. Randy Blankenship, President | X | ||
| Mrs. Christa Graves, Board Member | X | ||
| Mrs. Morgan Jones, Board Member | X | ||
| Ms. Jenna Bollinger, Board Member | X | ||
| Mr. Chad Redmon, Board Member |
4.
Recognition of Visitors and Public Participation (Agenda Items Only)
(Please speak to the Treasurer prior to the start of this meeting.)
Minutes
There was no public participation.
5.
Public Participation (Any Topic)
Minutes
There was not public participation.
6.
Treasurer's Report and Recommendations
Minutes
House Bill 96 and Cash Reserve Update
The Treasurer distributed a PowerPoint presentation outlining the potential impacts of House Bill 96, which includes a proposed increase in the cash reserve cap from 25% to 30% in the new biennium budget. While the bill has passed the House, it remains uncertain whether the Senate will approve the same language.
Currently, our FY25 reserve stands at 110%, which is temporarily inflated due to the receipt of property tax revenues and limited expenditures through June. The percentage is expected to normalize around 79% as spending occurs.
The Treasurer emphasized that most treasurers are maintaining higher reserves to prepare for capital improvements. Drawing down these reserves too quickly would not be financially prudent. Several fund transfer strategies were reviewed to remain under the proposed cap while maintaining financial stability:
Transferring funds into the Permanent Improvement (PI) Fund, though this option is less flexible once funds are committed.
Establishing a 035 Fund to account for projected staff retirements over the next five years.
Utilizing the 024 Fund, which currently has a healthy balance and allows for easier transfers in and out.
It was also noted that all of the district’s levies, including the Permanent Improvement Levy, are continuing. As long as the district avoids deficit spending and strategically manages transfers, it should remain in good financial standing under the potential changes from House Bill 96.
Program Expansion and Financial Impact
Mr. Britton and Mrs. Porinchok shared that the Pathways to Graduation program will expand to the middle school next year, bringing five students back from external placements. This move is expected to save the district approximately $250,000, which will benefit the general fund.
Result: Approved
Motioned: Ms. Jenna Bollinger, Board Member
Seconded: Mrs. Morgan Jones, Board Member
| Voter | Yes | No | Abstaining |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mr. Randy Blankenship, President | X | ||
| Mrs. Christa Graves, Board Member | X | ||
| Mrs. Morgan Jones, Board Member | X | ||
| Ms. Jenna Bollinger, Board Member | X | ||
| Mr. Chad Redmon, Board Member |
7.
Superintendent's Report
7.1
Community Donations
Thank you to Bucyrus Elks Lodge #156 - Gratitude Grant $3000 to Athletic Department
Thank you to Bucyrus Moose Lodge #669 - Academic Boosters Donation $1762.50
Minutes
Mr. Britton extended the Board’s appreciation for the generous donations received in support of district programs.
7.2
Athletics Update
Minutes
Athletic Update – Mr. Makeever
Mr. Keever reported steady athletic participation in grades 7–12, with an expected increase next year due to a highly active incoming class. Efforts to boost involvement include youth programs and improved communication through apps and in-person outreach.
He shared updates on potential OHSAA divisional changes, noting Bucyrus may move to Division VII in football. A new league scheduling format starting in 2026 aims to improve competition balance and reduce travel.
Drug testing results showed significant improvement from last year, with fewer positive results and better follow-up outcomes.
Student highlights included state qualifiers in cross country and bowling, as well as a middle school wrestling league title. Banner installation is pending equipment access, and future athlete recognitions are being planned.
8.
Personnel - Certified Staff
Minutes
Motion passed 8.1 - 8.4.
Result: Approved
Motioned: Mrs. Morgan Jones, Board Member
Seconded: Ms. Jenna Bollinger, Board Member
| Voter | Yes | No | Abstaining |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mr. Randy Blankenship, President | X | ||
| Mrs. Christa Graves, Board Member | X | ||
| Mrs. Morgan Jones, Board Member | X | ||
| Ms. Jenna Bollinger, Board Member | X | ||
| Mr. Chad Redmon, Board Member |
8.1
Approve the following resignations as per Exhibits.
Karla Schifer, Elementary Health & Physical Education - for retirement
Rebecca Hartman, Elementary Health & Physical Education - for retirement
Abigayle Feasel, High School ELA - resignation
Minutes
Mr. Britton thanked retirees for their many years of dedicated service.
8.2
Approve the Substitute Teacher List from the Mid-Ohio Educational Service Center, as per Exhibit.
Approve the ongoing updated list of certificated / licensed substitutes, screened / hired through the Mid-Ohio ESC, who have named Bucyrus as the employing district, and authorize the District Treasurer to pay the substitutes on the Mid-Ohio ESC list between meetings.
8.3
Approve FMLA leave for the following:
Kelly Stine - Middle School Teacher - April 9, 2025-May 21,2025 (4-6 weeks estimated)
8.4
Approve the following Limited Supplement Contracts as stated and pending certification and completion of all State and Board requirements.
21st Century Grant Summer Program Staff
Grant Program Manager: Robin Showers (Renhill)
Elementary:
Program Co-Coordinators: Kim Mutchler & Robin Showers (Renhill)
Tutors: Abbie Adams, Ashton Boyd, Julia Evak (Renhill), Nicole Everhart, Gabrielle Frizzell, Madalyn Gahring, McKenzie Holman, Monica Johnson, Karen Kocher (Renhill), Jamie Lyons, Jalyn Lyons (Renhill), Dawn Martin, Josephine Miller, Stephanie Newton, Tiffany Powers, Shari Shuck, Ashley Vargas Scanu, & Edward Warner
Secondary:
Program Coordinator: Karolyn Rebon (Renhill)
Tutors: George Barbuto, Dan Rebon (Renhill), Jason Staten, Kelly Stine
Minutes
Mr. Britton provided an update on the 21st Century Grant summer program, noting that many teachers participate in tutoring during the summer months. While the program will continue this summer, the high school portion of the grant will be phased out after this year, marking the final year for high school programming under the grant.
9.
Personnel - Classified Staff
Minutes
Motion passed 9.1 - 9.4.
Result: Approved
Motioned: Mrs. Morgan Jones, Board Member
Seconded: Ms. Jenna Bollinger, Board Member
| Voter | Yes | No | Abstaining |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mr. Randy Blankenship, President | X | ||
| Mrs. Christa Graves, Board Member | X | ||
| Mrs. Morgan Jones, Board Member | X | ||
| Ms. Jenna Bollinger, Board Member | X | ||
| Mr. Chad Redmon, Board Member |
9.1
Approve the following resignations as per Exhibits.
Kim Binnix, Bucyrus City Educational Aide - Elementary Librarian - for retirement
Bart Dennison, Bucyrus High School - Head Varsity Golf Coach - resignation
Minutes
Mr. Britton thanked the retiree for her many years of dedicated service.
9.2
Approve the following as Classified Subs for 2024-2025 school year as per Exhibit.
9.3
Approve changes to Renhill Contract of Services, as per Exhibit.
9.4
Approve the following Limited Supplement Contracts as stated and pending certification and completion of all State and Board requirements.
21st Century Grant Summer Program
Elementary:
Aides: Isabella Evak (Renhill), Deborah Moore, Amye Nolan (Renhill), & Linda Snyder
Bus Drivers: Deborah Moore & Linda Snyder
10.
Business
Minutes
Mrs. Jones requested that Item 10.2 be removed and renumbered as Item 11.
Motion passed 10.1 and 10.3 - 10.9.
Result: Approved
Motioned: Ms. Jenna Bollinger, Board Member
Seconded: Mrs. Christa Graves, Board Member
| Voter | Yes | No | Abstaining |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mr. Randy Blankenship, President | X | ||
| Mrs. Christa Graves, Board Member | X | ||
| Mrs. Morgan Jones, Board Member | X | ||
| Ms. Jenna Bollinger, Board Member | X | ||
| Mr. Chad Redmon, Board Member |
10.1
Approve the following prospective candidates for graduation (list is subject to change) from Bucyrus High School as Class of 2025 as per Exhibit.
Minutes
Mr. Britton congratulated the senior class and noted that two students at Pioneer Career and Technical Center are finalizing requirements. The district anticipates a high graduation rate, with all listed students on track to meet Ohio Department of Education standards.
10.2
Approve the following service agreement with Avita for Athletic Trainer Services (3) years beginning on July 1, 2025 - June 30, 2028 as per Exhibit.
Minutes
(To be removed per Mrs. Jones’ request; will be renumbered as Item 11)
10.3
Approve the following service agreement with River Education Services, INC. - Leap Program for the 2025-2026 school year, as per Exhibits.
10.4
Approve the following reports for submission to the Crawford County Auditor in Accordance with the Ohio Revised Code, as per Exhibits.
10.5
Approve the following Reading Improvement Plan for Bucyrus Elementary 2024-2025 school year as per Exhibit.
10.6
Accept the following updates to the guidelines for Stony's Kind Kids Grants as per Exhibit.
Minutes
Mr. Britton also acknowledged the kindness and generosity of the Stony family, who worked with district leadership to revise grant language through the Stonys Foundation. These changes will offer greater flexibility in providing support to students and families in need.
10.7
Accept the following Purpose, Clause and Budget as per Exhibit.
10.8
Approved the proposal for overnight/ extended student trip as per Exhibit.
High School Cheer Camp @ BGSU - July 7-10, 2025
10.9
Accept the following donations as stated:
Bucyrus City School District Staff Scholarship Fund $217.40
Academic Boosters Scholarship - Heid Donation $500
Academic Boosters Banquet - Moose Donation $1762.50
11.
Business
Minutes
Motion passed 11.1.
Result: Approved
Motioned: Ms. Jenna Bollinger, Board Member
Seconded: Mrs. Christa Graves, Board Member
| Voter | Yes | No | Abstaining |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mr. Randy Blankenship, President | X | ||
| Mrs. Christa Graves, Board Member | X | ||
| Mrs. Morgan Jones, Board Member | X | ||
| Ms. Jenna Bollinger, Board Member | X | ||
| Mr. Chad Redmon, Board Member |
11.1
Approve the following service agreement with Avita for Athletic Trainer Services (3) years beginning on July 1, 2025 - June 30, 2028 as per Exhibit.
12.
Discussion
Minutes
Mr. Britton brought forward an option for discussion involving Allerton Hill Communications to support community outreach through social media, newsletters, and event promotion. The agreement includes a 30-day opt-out. He noted it may come to the board for approval next month. Discussion centered on cost vs. value.
13.
Adjourn
Minutes
The meeting was adjourned at 6:14 p.m.
Result: Approved
Motioned: Ms. Jenna Bollinger, Board Member
Seconded: Mrs. Morgan Jones, Board Member
| Voter | Yes | No | Abstaining |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mr. Randy Blankenship, President | X | ||
| Mrs. Christa Graves, Board Member | X | ||
| Mrs. Morgan Jones, Board Member | X | ||
| Ms. Jenna Bollinger, Board Member | X | ||
| Mr. Chad Redmon, Board Member |
