Wendy Spurlock, Hamilton City's fine arts director, told the board the district has upgraded high-school stage infrastructure and Garfield Auditorium lighting, displayed student work from multiple programs and outlined technical needs to broaden performance options.

"We first needed a new stage at the high school. It's well overdue and we have this fabulous stage," Spurlock said, describing the stage and lighting work and citing local theater standards used during planning. She noted student projects — murals, photography exhibits at the Fenton Center, 3D and metals art, ceramics, and T-shirt printing — and highlighted several ensembles: marching band (qualified for state), jazz ensembles, acappella group Anharmonics, and multiple show-choir achievements.

Spurlock requested audiovisual upgrades to expand creative staging: a short-throw rear projector and a suitable screen (she called the right screen "sort of like an opaque shower curtain") or an LED wall, and she said those elements would allow rear projection and flying set pieces without casting front-stage shadows. "I need you to look at the pictures and understand that they're more versatile," she said, explaining why the equipment matters for performances.

She also raised rehearsal-space constraints and joined the athletics director in noting a long-term multipurpose building would serve many programs. Spurlock said she became director in January of last year.

Discussion vs. decision: The presentation was informational. Board members thanked Spurlock and the fine arts staff; trustees described the program's growth and community value but made no formal funding commitments or motions at the meeting.

The board complimented student accomplishments and encouraged continued community partnerships and local showcasing of performances.