The Columbus City School District Board of Education meeting held on February 6, 2024, addressed several key topics, including the development of a new museum at the Afrocentric School and concerns regarding cooperative purchasing agreements.

The meeting began with a presentation from a community member who shared his vision for a museum to be located beneath the steps of the Afrocentric School. He emphasized the importance of showcasing significant cultural artifacts, including pieces related to notable figures such as Malcolm X and Martin Luther King Jr., as well as items representing African heritage. The architect involved in the school's design, Kaye, also spoke, highlighting the collaborative effort to bring the vision to life and expressing gratitude for the opportunity to work on the project.

Following this presentation, President Nana Watson raised concerns regarding the district's use of cooperative purchasing agreements, specifically with the Brewer Garrett Company and other non-local firms. She questioned the rationale behind spending significant taxpayer dollars—$860,000 with Brewer Garrett and over $2 million with John Luxe Construction—on companies not based in Columbus. Watson urged the board to consider local companies for future contracts, emphasizing the importance of keeping taxpayer money within the community.

The board then moved into discussions on various resolutions, with a focus on ensuring local participation in future purchasing agreements. The meeting concluded with a commitment to further explore these issues in upcoming sessions, aiming to enhance transparency and community involvement in the district's financial decisions.