Sidney City schools approve Flex Factor course with Sinclair Community College partnership

The Sidney City Board of Education approved a new semester course that pairs an economics and entrepreneurship curriculum with Sinclair Community College’s Flex Factor pre‑apprenticeship program, following a presentation from district staff.

Board members heard that the Flex Factor partnership is provided to the district at no cost and is designed as a pre‑apprenticeship pathway in advanced manufacturing. Presenters explained students will research a product, develop a business plan in teams, and make a five‑minute presentation to a judging panel of local industry and entrepreneurs. Participating students may be eligible for one College Credit Plus (CCP) credit from Sinclair if they complete the program and Sinclair certifies the work.

Superintendent staff noted the course is intended to expand elective pathways and offer a practical route to competency for juniors and seniors who have not met traditional academic competency requirements. The district plans to marry the Flex Factor activities to a newly created economics/entrepreneurship class; Mr. Josek was identified in the presentation as the planned instructor.

Trustees asked whether the partnership would require additional district funding and were told classroom space and existing staff would be used and Sinclair’s participation is free. After discussion, the board moved and approved a motion to add the course to the 2026–27 curriculum and adopt the Sinclair partnership (roll call: Dickman — yes; Kimmel — yes; Wilson — yes; New — yes; Bos — yes).

The board approved the curriculum addition and instructed staff to finalize course registration and partnership details with Sinclair. No district funding commitment was reported during the public discussion; how many students ultimately receive CCP credit will depend on meeting Sinclair’s certification requirements.