The Worthington Schools Board of Education took a significant step forward during their meeting on February 26, 2024, by approving a purchase agreement for the former Amazon Sydney Services building on Bush Boulevard. This acquisition, valued at $9.35 million—slightly below its appraised value of $9.5 million—aims to address long-standing space issues for the district's landscape maintenance and transportation teams.

For over 15 years, the district has sought a suitable facility to support its operations, as the current transportation office is severely lacking, with only two restrooms for over a hundred staff members. The new building will serve as a consolidated headquarters, enhancing the district's ability to attract and retain drivers in a competitive market, ensuring students can reliably travel to and from school and events.

Superintendent Dr. Bowers emphasized the importance of this purchase for the future of Worthington Schools, stating it positions the district to better support teaching and learning. The decision followed extensive community engagement, including blog posts and emails to families, ensuring transparency throughout the process.

In addition to the building purchase, the board discussed the Boundless property as a potential site for a new Colonial Hills Elementary School. Although the district made a competitive offer, it was informed that a higher bid was likely to be accepted, which was disappointing for the board. However, they remain interested in the 14.7-acre site, believing it to be a suitable location for educational purposes.

The meeting also touched on upcoming summer intervention programs for targeted students, which will be free and include transportation and meals, funded through federal ESSER dollars aimed at pandemic recovery. The board is gearing up for the budget season, with discussions on staffing and financial planning set to take place in the coming months.

Overall, the decisions made during this meeting reflect a commitment to improving facilities and educational services in the Worthington community, with a focus on transparency and community involvement.