By 1808Delaware
The December 16 Board of Education meeting for Olentangy Local Schools offered a clear snapshot of where the district stands as it closes out 2025 and where it is headed next. From student leadership to major capital planning, the evening balanced reflection with forward momentum.
A Year of Big Decisions
Board President Brandon Lester opened with a candid look back at a demanding year. The district spent significant time explaining the state budget and its implications for Olentangy, while also navigating the decision to place a no-new-millage bond issue on the ballot to support new school construction.
At the same time, Lester emphasized that the district continued to highlight what often matters most to families: student and staff success across classrooms, performance spaces, and athletic fields.
Students Leading the Work of Repair
One of the most compelling moments of the meeting came from Berlin High School students involved in a student-led restorative practices group. Nine students were selected for the program, which aligns with the district’s Portrait of a Learner framework.
These students have trained in leadership development, conflict mediation, and culture building. During the meeting, they demonstrated restorative scenarios and activities, showing how peer-led approaches can strengthen relationships, encourage accountability, and support inclusive school environments. It was a practical reminder that culture is shaped daily, often by students themselves.
Capital Planning in a Tight Environment
Chief Operations Officer Jeff Gordon walked the board through the district’s five-year capital plan, laying out both challenges and adjustments. In FY 2025, Olentangy finished using remaining 2020 bond funds and covered funding gaps with general funds due to limited permanent improvement resources.
Looking ahead to FY 2026, planned projects include high school stadium and theater updates, safety and security improvements, and roof replacements. Beginning in FY 2027, the district expects capital costs to be funded primarily through bond dollars, with spending carefully adjusted to keep the overall budget in balance.
Saving Money While Building Schools
Treasurer Ryan Jenkins outlined a refunding resolution projected to save the district about $3.4 million, lowering borrowing costs for the community. He also explained the district’s use of Bond Anticipation Notes, short-term financing that provides upfront cash for construction already underway at Elementary School 18 and High School 5.
Bond funds will also reimburse the district for early expenses paid before the bond passed, including long-lead materials and pre-design work.
Policy Updates and Instructional Choices
Deputy Superintendent Dr. Jack Fette presented five board policy updates for first reading, all focused on aligning district credit card use with current guidance from the Ohio Auditor of State.
On the instructional side, Executive Director of Teaching and Learning Vince DeTillio introduced a proposed new French world language resource. After a year-long review process that included teacher evaluations, summer training, a fall pilot, and feedback sessions, staff recommended adopting Chemins (Vista). The mid-year adoption would provide updated classroom texts and online access through 2029, with ongoing professional development built in.
Facilities and High School 5 Moves Forward
The board approved several business and facilities items, including a pre-annexation agreement with the City of Delaware for roughly 139.66 acres along Bunty Station Road tied to the proposed High School 5 project. An amendment to the district’s contract with Fanning Howey Associates added $1,914,338 for bid, construction administration, and closeout services related to that project.
What’s Next
The next Board of Education meeting will be held Thursday, January 8, 2026, at 6:30 PM at the Olentangy Administrative Offices. That meeting will include both the annual organizational meeting and a regular session, with the 2026 board meeting schedule up for approval.
For families watching closely, the December meeting made one thing clear: Olentangy is managing growth, finances, and culture at the same time, and none of those conversations are happening in isolation.
Source: Olentangy Local Schools; Photo: Creative Commons License
