By 1808Delaware
The Olentangy Local Schools Board of Education met on October 10, 2024, to discuss district growth, financial updates, and upcoming policy changes. Here’s a summary of the main points.
Encouraging Community Engagement with Bridging the Future
Board President Brandon Lester took a moment to invite the community to the Bridging the Future event, happening at Olentangy High School on October 16. The event promises an exciting showcase of work-based learning opportunities and Olentangy partners, emphasizing the school district’s commitment to preparing students for future careers. This event is set to highlight the many ways the district collaborates with local organizations and businesses to create opportunities for students beyond the classroom.
Olentangy High School Softball Field Gets an Upgrade
Olentangy High School’s varsity softball team is about to see a major improvement. Head Coach Liz Yanez presented plans for a new turf field, fully funded by a private donation. The turf upgrade is expected to extend the playing season, reduce field maintenance expenses, and open up new avenues for revenue through field rentals and future fundraising. The installation will not only benefit the team but also provide additional opportunities for local tournaments and community use.
Financial Health and Future Challenges: Treasurer’s Report
Treasurer Ryan Jenkins presented the district’s five-year financial forecast, pointing out both strengths and concerns. For the current school year (2024-25), the district is in a solid financial position; however, Jenkins warned that financial challenges loom ahead. With 400-500 new students joining the district annually, staffing needs are expected to grow significantly, leading to potential budget deficits within three years.
Jenkins emphasized the role of property taxes in funding the district—approximately 61% of revenue comes from real estate taxes, largely from residential properties. While property values have increased, the corresponding tax rates and voted millage have decreased, meaning the district does not necessarily see a proportional boost in funding. Jenkins also discussed the limitations of the Ohio Fair School Funding Formula, which determines the district’s funding based on local property values and resident income. Despite Olentangy Schools’ growth, the formula’s reliance on outdated data means the district will receive only $805 per student, a figure that barely exceeds 2020 levels when adjusted for inflation.
Jenkins expressed his intention to advocate for changes to the funding formula to reflect current costs more accurately and to lobby for increased support for Ohio’s growing districts. He noted that while the district remains financially stable for now, securing sustainable funding for the future is a priority.
Enrollment Growth and Facilities Committee Report
Sharon Jurawitz, Chair of the Facilities Committee, provided an enrollment update. Olentangy Local Schools began the 2024-25 school year with 24,057 students, just slightly below projections. However, the district expects to see rapid growth over the next decade, with enrollment anticipated to reach nearly 30,000 students by 2034—35.
With this growth comes an urgent need for additional classroom space. The most pressing issue is at the elementary level, where a deficit of 141 classrooms is projected unless new schools are built. Middle and high schools are also expected to face capacity challenges, with middle schools averaging 1,200-1,300 students each, resulting in a shortage of 29 classrooms. Superintendent Todd Meyer highlighted that overcrowding not only impacts the quality of education but also raises safety concerns, particularly at the high school level, which has already faced capacity issues in the past.
Policy Updates for a Safer, Inclusive School Environment
Deputy Superintendent Dr. Jack Fette presented several policy revisions for their first reading. These include updates to policies on nondiscrimination and equal education opportunities, special education, attendance, due process rights, and school safety, among others. The proposed revisions aim to ensure that district policies remain current and effectively address the evolving needs of the student population.
Among the significant updates is a renewed focus on maintaining a safe school environment and ensuring equal access to educational opportunities for all students. The board’s ongoing commitment to revising policies demonstrates its dedication to improving both safety measures and inclusivity throughout the district.
Looking Ahead
The next regular Board of Education meeting is set for October 24 at 6:30 PM at Liberty High School. Community members are encouraged to attend and stay informed about the decisions impacting their schools. All meeting information and records are available online on the Board Meeting Records webpage for those who wish to follow along.
Source: Olentangy Local Schools; Image: DALL-E 3
