New Bedford City board members sworn in; president urges focus on student achievement and staff support

Newly sworn-in board members addressed the Bedford City School District at the Jan. 8 organizational meeting and outlined priorities for the year.

Anthony Atkins took the oath of office and later, as newly elected board president, thanked voters and pledged to "help lead the school with integrity." He told the board he planned to "prioritize the needs of students and families" and to provide "enhanced support for our teachers, bus drivers, and all district employees," while emphasizing financial oversight and administrative accountability.

Other swearing-in ceremonies included Chris Callender, who was administered the oath by Tom Jackson, a member of the Ohio State Board of Education, and Montez Morton, who received an oath administered by Pastor Wilbur Brooks. Each new board member affirmed support for the U.S. and Ohio constitutions and their duties to the Bedford City School District.

Atkins said he wants the board to "work together to make this thing great" and called 2026 "a year of change," urging cooperation among board members, administrators, teachers and community stakeholders.

The board's public remarks were largely ceremonial and forward-looking; no policy reversals or new program funding were proposed during the swearing-in remarks. The board asked staff to share the adopted calendar and committee list so residents can follow upcoming meetings and community engagement events.

The meeting proceeded to routine organizational business after the swearing-in and adjourned at 6:59 p.m.

What happens next: The new board leadership and committee assignments will guide agendas and public engagement for the coming year.