Board highlights student wins, treasurer award and plans letter to Congressman on school funding

Board members used the March 10 work session to highlight recent student and staff achievements and to discuss state funding concerns. Board members praised student participation in the district’s Future Chefs event and congratulated Jada Wallace, a Middletown High sophomore, who placed third in the state of Ohio in the 60-meter hurdles.

Board members also recognized Treasurer Randy Bertram and his department for earning the Ohio Auditor of State award. Bertram said the office received three stars in the award criteria and commented informally, “Clean books.” The board noted Middletown has earned the award multiple times in recent years.

Several board members and staff raised concerns about House Bill 96 and state-level funding, saying unchanged base funding data leaves districts facing effective cuts. District leaders said staff and a board member worked on a letter to send to Congressman Thomas Hall requesting a meeting or reconsideration of the bill’s current language; the meeting packet indicated the letter would be sent the following day. Board members asked that the district continue public communications about the bill and its local impact. Staff also noted transportation funding appeared to be among the areas under consideration at the state level.

Board members discussed possible national developments affecting federal education funding but said more clarity is needed; the district plans further engagement and advocacy with legislators and professional organizations.