Board members discussed the district's Ohio School Boards Association membership fee during the Jan. 6 organizational meeting and asked for more detail on the recent increase before approving renewal.

One member noted that last year’s OSBA payment was about $8,483 and said this year's renewal had ‘‘jumped considerably’’ (one board member initially cited $9,733). The treasurer later referenced a figure of $9,007.73 and provided historical reference points ($8,473 for 2023 and $8,007.72 the prior year), and said the fee is calculated based on average daily membership (ADM). The treasurer said he would confirm the precise historical amounts and method of calculation.

Supporters said OSBA provides training, policy guidance and statehouse monitoring that helps districts stay current with legislative changes. "One of the biggest values is that they are keeping an eye on all of the changes that are going on daily at the statehouse," a board member said, noting training and consultation access statewide.

Why it matters: OSBA membership is a recurring district expense that provides professional development and policy guidance; the recent price increase prompted questions about value and transparency. The board approved renewal unanimously and directed the treasurer to deliver a fee-history breakdown and clarification of funding sources.

Ending

Administration will return with a clarified fee history and a short explanation of how OSBA services have been used by the district.