Public speakers urge district action on vouchers, criticize board conduct and praise superintendent

Four members of the public spoke during the meeting’s public‑comment period.

Linda Wagner, a resident, urged the board to join the “Vouchers Hurt Ohio” lawsuit and to take a public position opposing use of public funds for private‑school vouchers. "More than $2,000,000,000 has already been diverted from fiscal year 2025 alone," Wagner said, and she contended that vouchers divert funds from public schools and lack sufficient oversight.

Lisa Wheeler, a parent with students in the district, criticized what she described as unproductive behavior by some board members. Wheeler said she had prepared a data‑driven statement but focused instead on what she called “overt animosity, pettiness, childishness” in open meetings that, she said, distracts from board duties and harms the district’s work.

Ryan Winya, a parent, addressed the board in more pointed terms, saying some elected members have narrowed opportunities for students and undermined public education. Winya accused specific board members by their first names in remarks recorded in the meeting transcript and urged voters to select different leadership if they want a board that “widens their world, not shrinks it.”

Adrienne Moyer (who asked the board to use the first name pronunciation “Audrey”) thanked Superintendent Ryan McLane and the board, praised the district’s counseling and college‑credit opportunities, and highlighted inclusionary extracurricular programs. She described the district’s Purple Star military appreciation night and opportunities for students to participate in athletics and activities as examples of the board and staff supporting broad student participation.

Ending note: Public comments ranged from calls for legal and policy action to concerns about board behavior and praise for district programs. Board members did not take direct action in response but acknowledged the speakers and the issues raised; matters such as vouchers and board conduct may be addressed in future agendas or community outreach.