By 1808Delaware
The Olentangy Schools Board of Education met earlier this month to discuss various updates on the district’s financial status, student resources, and upcoming initiatives. Here’s what went down:
Post-Levy Adjustments and New Proposals
After the levy failure in March, the Board President shared that the team is working on resource alignment and student enrollment projections. This may lead to continued redistricting, modular classrooms, and larger class sizes to handle the student overflow. It’s all about finding the best path forward to keep things on track.
Shale Meadows Book Creator: Inspiring Young Minds
Fifth-grade teacher and tech coach Jenny Shoaf introduced Book Creator, a digital tool that lets students create their own digital books. The templates are easy to use, with plenty of cool features to inspire creativity. School Counselor Kristi Litzenberg uses Book Creator to help students build empathy through storytelling, while the fifth graders at Shale Meadows shared their own books on “What it Means to be a Monarch.”
Superintendent’s Report: Planning for the Future
The Superintendent outlined some of the potential steps the district might take following the failed levy. In addition to redistricting, modular classrooms, and larger class sizes, there’s talk of moving students out of schools temporarily to manage overflow. It’s a tough situation, but the leadership team is on it.
Financial Updates and New Handbooks
Treasurer Ryan Jenkins presented the results of the district’s dependent eligibility audit, which went smoothly with less than 1% of dependents unable to be verified. Jenkins also mentioned that he’ll be presenting the Five-Year Financial Forecast at the next meeting on April 25. This forecast will delve into how the levy failure impacts future plans.
Deputy Superintendent Dr. Jack Fette introduced the proposed student handbooks for the 2024-25 school year, along with the new student fees for middle and high schools.
Tech Upgrades and Curriculum Updates
Technology Director Robert Sexton reviewed the district’s tech purchases, including new Chromebooks, software updates, and security enhancements. The tech team is also preparing for a district-wide network refresh and working on a plan for the opening of Peachblow Crossing Elementary.
Curriculum Director Vince DeTillio discussed the latest instructional resource purchases, including a comprehensive math curriculum for elementary students and new social studies materials for middle schoolers. These resources are aimed at promoting hands-on learning and critical thinking.
Keeping in Touch
The next board meeting is on April 25 at 6:30 PM at Liberty High School. You can catch the livestream or check out the district’s website for meeting information and records. It’s the best way to stay updated on what’s happening in Olentangy Schools.
