Olentangy Local board members outline priorities on curriculum, funding, policy and community engagement

Five members of the Olentangy Local School District Board of Education used brief remarks during a recent meeting to summarize their priorities for the district, emphasizing careful curriculum selection, state school-funding fairness, fiscal stewardship, clearer policy guidance and ongoing community engagement.

Libby Wallach, member, Olentangy Local School District Board of Education, said careful review of instructional materials is a top priority. "What I really enjoy about supporting the work of high academic standards, high rigor, in this district is really being attuned to the process by which we adopt new curriculum," Wallach said. She added that, as a former classroom teacher and a professional-development provider for instructional leaders, she values vetting materials so "we're not just throwing a dart to see what sticks, but, really selecting high quality materials that will enhance the learning for our students." Wallach also said she appreciates presentations from staff and students that showcase classroom work.

Kevin Dabrico, member, Olentangy Local School District Board of Education, identified state school funding as his top issue, saying the district continues to "advocate for fair school funding and getting our fair share from the state." Dabrico said, "we shouldn't have 90% of our money go to the state to never return," framing that funding distribution as the number-one issue affecting taxpayers in the district.

Kevin O'Brien, member, Olentangy Local School District Board of Education, described the district's record on spending and outcomes. "We've got a proven track record of a very competitive cost per pupil, combined with outstanding student performance," O'Brien said, tying the district's spending decisions to student outcomes and characterizing the district's cost point as competitive.

Lizette Schreiber, member, Olentangy Local School District Board of Education, said her service on the policy committee shaped her view of priorities. "I think policies are a great way to have a set of guidelines for how the district works and a set of ground rules on how to move forward," Schreiber said, adding that clear policies help ensure expectations are clear and reflect district values.

Brandon Lester, member, Olentangy Local School District Board of Education, stressed the importance of community contact for board members. "As board members, it is essential that we stay in touch with the community," Lester said, describing the role as an honor and saying the board must "uphold the community's trust."

The remarks provided an overview of individual priorities; the transcript excerpts did not record formal motions or votes related to these topics and did not specify next steps, timelines, or dollar amounts tied to any single initiative.