By 1808Delaware
As the year draws to a close, the Olentangy Local Schools Board of Education reflected on accomplishments, honor dedicated leadership, and celebrate community contributions at its December meeting. From recognizing a state championship title to supporting families through holiday initiatives, the meeting showcased the district’s ongoing commitment to student success, well-being, and community engagement. Key updates included a farewell commendation for a long-serving leader, highlights of recent achievements, and plans for the year ahead.
Board President Reflects on 2024 and Community Engagement
At the December 11, 2024, meeting, Board President Brandon Lester expressed gratitude to fellow board members, school staff, and the Olentangy community for their collective support and hard work throughout the year. Lester highlighted the district’s Well-Being and Mental Health Committee, which recently completed a review of the Signs of Suicide training shared with parents in November. The committee evaluated its effectiveness and identified additional measures to further bolster student and family mental health.
Lester also emphasized the ongoing contributions of the Olentangy Education Foundation, which funds innovative projects aimed at enhancing classroom experiences. For those interested in contributing to this mission, volunteer positions for 2025 are now open.
Honoring 25 Years of Service: Randy Wright’s Commendation
In a special moment during the meeting, the Board of Education presented a Resolution of Commendation to Chief of Administrative Services Randy Wright for his remarkable 25-year tenure in the Olentangy school district.
Wright’s career includes serving as a teacher, coach, dean of students, assistant principal, and principal, before stepping into district-wide leadership roles in 2015. His focus on leadership development for principals and administrators has left a legacy of growth and excellence. As Wright prepares to retire at the end of the year, the Board celebrated his deep and lasting contributions to the district’s success.
Superintendent Celebrates State Champions and Holiday Giving
Superintendent Todd R. Meyer recognized several significant achievements during his report. The Liberty High School football team was celebrated for winning the OHSAA Division I state championship on December 6. Meyer commended the players, coaches, and families for their dedication and teamwork throughout the season.
Highlighting the district’s spirit of giving, Meyer shared the success of several community service initiatives:
- Over 100 Thanksgiving meal kits were donated to families through the Delaware County Juvenile Courts’ “Fight Against Hunger Games Alliance.”
- The district’s Holiday Help program provided gifts and household essentials to nearly 200 families, ensuring a brighter holiday season for those in need.
Additionally, Dr. Katherine Branson, Assistant Director of Student Well-Being, was honored with the HelpLine Guardians for Good Award for her exceptional efforts in promoting emotional health and wellness across the Olentangy community. Meyer praised her dedication to student and family well-being.
Looking Ahead: January Meeting and 2025 Board Schedule
The Board announced that the next meeting, both organizational and regular, is scheduled for Thursday, January 9, 2025, at 6:30 PM. During this session, the 2025 Board meeting schedule will be proposed and formally adopted.
Community members are encouraged to stay informed and engaged by accessing all meeting information and records on the district’s Board Meeting Records webpage.
Source: Olentangy Schools
