Akron Public Schools public meetings in 2020

SPECIAL BOARD MEETING

The board will consider a recommendation to purchase network monitoring licenses from CDW Government LLC for up to $50,000, replacing the Solar Winds system after a U.S. Department of Homeland Security breach notification. They will also discuss end-of-year wrap-up, the AdvanceAPS initiative, and the upcoming organizational meeting, and may recess into executive session.

• Purchase of WhatsUp Gold Premium and Network Traffic Analysis licenses from CDW Government LLC for $50,000 from the General Fund
• Discussion of AdvanceAPS initiative
• End-of-the-year wrap-up discussion
• Organizational meeting planning discussion
• Possible recess into executive session under ORC 121.22(G)

The Board approved a recommendation to purchase network monitoring system licenses from CDW Government LLC for districtwide traffic analysis. This action followed a report that the previous vendor, Solar Winds, had experienced a major hack. Board members also discussed 2020 challenges, successes, and goals for 2021.

• Approved purchase of network monitoring system licenses from CDW Government LLC (7-0)

Finance and Capital Management Committee Meeting

The Finance and Capital Management Committee will discuss a legislative update covering the Fair School Funding Plan, H.B. 442, and H.B. 75, along with district-wide financial information including a levy, equity dashboard, and negotiations. They will also review the investment policy and consider equity and transparency in spending at the unit level.

• Recognition: Aaron Markovic received a Forecast5 Award for a project tracking students' digital footprint in Google Classroom
• Legislative update: Fair School Funding Plan, H.B. 442, H.B. 75
• Discussion of levy and equity dashboard
• Review of current and proposed NEOLA investment policy
• Equity and transparency in spending/unit level analysis

REGULAR BOARD MEETING

The Akron Board of Education will hold a virtual regular meeting on December 14, 2020. The board will elect a President Pro Tem to preside over the January organizational meeting. They will also vote on previous meeting minutes and numerous personnel actions including retirements, appointments, and supplemental contracts for coaches and coordinators.

• Election of President Pro Tem to chair the January 11, 2021 organizational meeting
• Approval of minutes from November 24 (superintendent search) and November 30 regular meetings
• Retirement of professional staff Maureen Seitz and Gerald Simcox effective May 31, 2021
• Appointment of Andrea Watts as elementary teacher at $41,014.01 per year
• Supplemental contracts for athletic coaches and activity coordinators, including $4,101.40 for Jr Varsity Basketball Coach at East and North

The Board appointed a temporary president to preside over the January 2021 organizational meeting. They also approved personnel recommendations, business affairs contracts, and the International Baccalaureate authorization for Portage Path CLC.

• Approved Lisa Mansfield as President Pro Tem (7-0)
• Approved November 24 and November 30 meeting minutes (7-0)
• Approved personnel recommendations for professional, supplemental, and support staff (7-0)
• Approved consent agenda including Portage Path CLC IB authorization (7-0)
• Approved business affairs recommendations including various purchase and service agreements (7-0)

Joint Board of Review

The Joint Board of Review will meet to approve minutes from September 14, 2020, and consider a change order request for the PR-022 Kenmore-Garfield project related to added polished concrete. No other substantive items are on the agenda.

• Approval of September 14, 2020 meeting minutes
• Change order request for PR-022 Kenmore-Garfield added polished concrete

Instructional Policy Committee Meeting

The Instructional Policy Committee is reviewing consent agenda items for approval at the December 14 board meeting, including new graded courses of study for Media Technology, Broadcasting, and K-12 Computer Science, and a $36,000 purchase of The Creative Curriculum Cloud for preschool. The committee will also discuss Remote Plus, district training compliance, and Portage Path IB authorization, and receive updates on the College & Career Academy of Akron, I PROMISE School, and STEM High School Congressional App Challenge winners.

• Review of November 24, 2020 meeting minutes
• Discussion of adding Media Technology I (Grade 5) and II (Grade 6), and Broadcasting I (Grade 7) and II (Grade 8) to English Language Arts courses
• Discussion of adding K-12 Computer Science to Mathematics courses
• Purchase of two-year unlimited access to The Creative Curriculum Cloud for Preschool from Teaching Strategies, LLC, not to exceed $36,000
• Updates on I PROMISE School master plan and STEM High School Congressional App Challenge winners

Legal, Contracts and Board Policy Committee Meeting

The Legal, Contracts and Board Policy Committee will first approve the summary of its November 11, 2020 meeting. It will then discuss a proposed racial equity policy. The committee will conduct a second reading of Policy 7250, which addresses the commemoration of school facilities. Finally, it will consider Bylaw 0155 concerning committee structures.

• Approve November 11, 2020 meeting summary
• Proposed Racial Equity Policy
• Second reading of Policy 7250 – Commemoration of School Facilities
• Bylaw 0155 – Committees

REGULAR BOARD MEETING

The Board will review the College & Career Academies of Akron Middle School Master Plan Addendum. Additionally, the Board is scheduled to consider a resolution to approve the Five-Year Forecast beginning FY21.

• Review of CCAA Middle School Master Plan Addendum
• Resolution #20-162: Approval of the Five-Year Forecast Beginning FY21
• Personnel resignations and retirements for professional staff
• Multiple limited supplemental contracts for various school roles

The Board of Education approved the November Five-Year Forecast and a series of personnel recommendations. Members also approved a consent agenda covering financial reports and grants, as well as various business affairs recommendations.

• Approved Five-Year Forecast beginning FY21 (6-0)
• Approved Regular Meeting Minutes from November 16, 2020 (6-0)
• Approved Personnel Recommendations (6-0)
• Approved Consent Agenda resolutions including financial reports and grant awards (6-0)
• Approved Business Affairs Recommendations (6-0)

SPECIAL MEETING - RECORDS DESTRUCTION COMMISSION

The Akron Public Schools Records Destruction Commission is holding a special virtual meeting on November 30, 2020, to discuss a list of records proposed for destruction. The agenda includes only one substantive item: consideration of the attached list of records. The meeting is procedural in nature with no other decisions or proposals.

• Discussion of a list of records proposed for destruction (file attached)

The Records Destruction Commission met to review a list of records slated for destruction. The commission approved the destruction of items 20-1 through 20-36, which include old financial records and department requests.

• Approved destruction of records list Items 20-1 through 20-36 (3-0)

Instructional Policy Committee Meeting

The Instructional Policy Committee will review minutes from October 20 and discuss the consent agenda. Key items include approving four new graded courses of study (Media Technology I/II and Broadcasting I/II for grades 5-8) and a K-12 Computer Science addendum to mathematics. The committee also discusses multiple professional development service agreements totaling over $300,000 for various schools, and receives updates on Remote Plus (postponed), CCAA Middle School Master Plan, Family Resource Center, and a time capsule proposal.

• Proposed Media Technology I/II and Broadcasting I/II courses for grades 5-8
• Proposed K-12 Computer Science graded course of study adoption
• Payment of $62,350 to AVID Center for virtual conference for 86 staff from Kenmore-Garfield
• Service agreements with Corwin Press totaling $201,000 for McEbright, Voris, Robinson, Helen Arnold, and Forest Hill CLCs
• Service agreement with ICLE for North HS professional learning up to $27,216

SPECIAL BOARD MEETING

This special board meeting is convened for a planning session with the Ohio School Boards Association regarding the search for a new superintendent. The agenda includes roll call, pledge of allegiance, and the discussion topic, followed by adjournment. No formal decisions or votes are listed.

• Planning session with Ohio School Boards Association for superintendent search

The Board held a planning session with an Ohio School Boards Association consultant to outline the search for a new Superintendent. No formal votes were taken on the search criteria or timeline; the session was for discussion only.

• Discussed search timeline with launch date of January 11, 2021, and application closing date of February 26, 2021
• Discussed candidate priorities including COVID-19 academic recovery, levy campaigns, and racial equity
• Discussed candidate preferences including classroom experience and residency within the district
• Approved motion to adjourn (7-0)

Finance Committee Meeting

The Akron Public Schools Finance Committee is meeting to discuss legislative updates, including EdChoice and the Fair School Funding Plan. They will also review district-wide financial information, such as the five-year forecast, state of financial affairs, and a budget review for CCAA Middle School. Additionally, the committee will discuss equity and transparency in spending at the unit level. All items are for discussion only; no votes are scheduled.

• Legislative Update: EdChoice and Fair School Funding Plan
• District-Wide Financial Information: Five Year Forecast
• State of Financial Affairs
• CCAA Middle School Budget Review
• Equity and Transparency in Spending/Unit Level Analysis

REGULAR BOARD MEETING

The Akron Board of Education will hold a virtual regular meeting. The agenda includes opening formalities, recognitions (EVERFI award, student athlete, board member), approval of previous minutes, and personnel recommendations including retirements, leaves, and appointments. A resident has requested to address the board regarding the need for in-person learning.

• Public comment request from William Reynolds on the need for in-person learning
• Oath of office for four new student board members for 2020-2021
• Recognition of Clay Peets, Firestone senior, for All-Ohio cross country honors
• Personnel actions: retirements (6 staff), one leave of absence, and appointments/reinstatements with salary details
• Limited supplemental contracts and revisions for extracurricular staff at multiple schools

The Board approved a series of personnel recommendations and business affairs contracts. A consent agenda including grants, property easements, and sports schedules was also passed. The meeting included the swearing-in of four new student board members.

• Approved personnel recommendations (7-0)
• Approved business affairs recommendations including contracts with Scholastic Inc. and Project Ujima, Inc. (7-0)
• Approved consent agenda resolutions including OCER and Transforming Schools Grant (6-1)
• Approved property easement for Ohio Edison Company at Kenmore-Garfield CLC (6-1)
• Approved return of non-contact Spring Sports 2021 (6-1)
• Approved minutes from October 26, November 2, and November 11, 2020 (7-0)
• Administered Oath of Office to student board members Abbigail Kerns, Madison Dies, Mikayla Perryman, and Sha'Heen Williams

Legal, Contracts and Policy Committee

The Legal, Contracts and Policy Committee will consider approving summaries from its October 5 and November 5 meetings and then discuss sections of a proposed racial equity policy to refine its language.

• Approval of October 5, 2020 meeting summary
• Approval of November 5, 2020 meeting summary
• Discussion of proposed racial equity policy to define language in certain sections

SPECIAL BOARD MEETING

The Akron Public Schools Board will hold a special virtual meeting to discuss the Middle School College & Career Academies Master Plan Addendum. The agenda includes opening formalities, a presentation on the addendum, and adjournment.

• Presentation of the Middle School College & Career Academies Master Plan Addendum

The Board received a presentation on a 5-year strategic plan to transform district middle schools through the College & Career Academies (CCAA). No substantive votes were taken on the plan; approval is requested for the November 30, 2020, meeting.

Legal, Contracts and Policy Committee Meeting

The Legal, Contracts and Policy Committee will consider approving the October 5 meeting summary and discuss a revised Policy 5611 regarding student due process rights, including changes to suspension and expulsion appeals. The committee will also review a special update from NEOLA on federal funding policies (Policies 6114 and 6325) and receive updates on a policy for naming facilities and a proposed racial equity policy.

• Approval of October 5, 2020 meeting summary
• Revised Policy 5611 on Due Process Rights (second reading) with changes to suspension and expulsion appeals
• Special Update from NEOLA on Policy 6114 (Cost Principles) and Policy 6325 (Procurement-Federal Grants)
• Status report on proposed policy for naming or renaming APS facilities
• Updates on proposed racial equity policy (feedback from Student Services and Senior Staff)

SPECIAL BOARD MEETING

The board will vote on resolutions to activate the 2020‑21 winter sports season, including non‑contact sports and contact sports that require COVID‑19 testing. It will consider a service agreement with QUICKmed Urgent Care to provide COVID‑19 tests for athletes at $35 per test, with a total cost not to exceed $147,000, funded by ESSER Fund 507-2038. A recommendation to purchase math manipulatives for K‑5 students district‑wide, costing up to $70,470, will also be reviewed. The meeting includes discussion of winter sports guidance and related COVID‑19 testing information.

• Resolution #20-152 authorizing activation of winter non‑contact sports (Bowling, Cheerleading, Swimming/Diving)
• Resolution #20-153 authorizing activation of winter contact sports (Basketball, Wrestling) with COVID‑19 testing
• Service agreement with QUICKmed Urgent Care for COVID‑19 testing at $35 per test, total not to exceed $147,000, charged to Fund 507-2038 (ESSER Fund)
• Purchase of math manipulatives kits for K‑5 district‑wide from Hand2Mind, total cost not to exceed $70,470, charged to Fund 507-2038 (ESSER Funds)
• Discussion of winter sports guidance documents and purchase of COVID‑19 tests

The Board approved the return of both non-contact and contact winter sports. Contact sports will require COVID-19 testing. The Board also approved Business Affairs recommendations regarding a service agreement and purchase.

• Approved Resolution #20-152 to activate non-contact winter sports (Bowling, Cheerleading, Swimming/Diving) (4-3)
• Approved Resolution #20-153 to activate contact winter sports with COVID testing (Basketball, Wrestling) (5-2)
• Approved Business Affairs recommendations for QUICKmed Urgent Care, LLC service agreement and Hand2Mind, Inc. purchase (7-0)

REGULAR BOARD MEETING

The Akron Board of Education will hold a virtual regular meeting, including public comments on in-person instruction for the second grading period, recognitions, approval of previous meeting minutes, and multiple personnel actions such as retirements and new appointments.

• Three public comments on in-person learning and naming a gym at Kenmore-Garfield
• Approval of minutes from October 12, 2020 regular board meeting
• Six professional staff retirements effective through June 2021
• Appointment of teacher Lindsey Kichi at $63,941.68
• Limited supplemental contracts for multiple schools including testing coordinators and activity supervisors

The Board approved an instructional model for the second grading period consisting of 100% remote learning supplemented by site-based small group support. The plan includes targeted intervention for struggling and accelerated students, with a goal to launch site-based support by November 30, 2020.

• Approved instructional model for 100% remote learning with site-based supports (7-0)
• Approved personnel recommendations (7-0)
• Approved business affairs recommendations, including tuition and service agreements (7-0)
• Approved consent agenda including grants from Cleveland Browns Foundation, Goodyear, and Toshiba (7-0)
• Approved October 12, 2020 meeting minutes (7-0)

Instructional Policy Committee Meeting

The Instructional Policy Committee will review minutes, discuss superintendent recommendations including a retirement, and consider consent agenda items such as a $100,000 Cleveland Browns Foundation grant for attendance support. Business affairs items include a $120,381 software purchase and multiple professional development contracts. Other agenda items cover reopening plans for the second 9 weeks and several grants.

• Cleveland Browns Foundation $100,000 grant for attendance resource fund
• Purchase of 74 Apricot 360 licenses for $120,381.31
• Service agreement with The Howard Group for $52,000 for virtual professional development
• Service agreements with Corwin Press totaling $69,000 for teacher clarity training
• Discussion of reopening plans for the second 9 weeks

Finance Committee Meeting

The Finance Committee will discuss legislative updates (HB 305, SB 350, EdChoice), district-wide financial information including a levy discussion, 5-year forecast, Subway lease, and racial equity policy, as well as an analysis of I Promise School spending. No votes or decisions are scheduled; these are discussion topics only.

• Legislative update: HB 305, SB 350, EdChoice
• Levy discussion and 5-year forecast
• Subway lease and State of Finances event (Dec 7)
• Racial and Equity Policy discussion
• I Promise School spending analysis

REGULAR BOARD MEETING

The Akron Board of Education will approve the minutes from its September 28 meeting and discuss the superintendent search. It will consider resignations and retirements of several professional staff members and a leave of absence request. The board will also act on multiple salary revisions and new appointments for teachers and staff.

• Approve the regular meeting minutes from September 28, 2020.
• Discuss the ongoing superintendent search.
• Accept resignations/retirements of Lisa Balough, Eva M. Jackson, Cynthia Orwig (effective 06‑04‑21) and Julie Perkins (effective 10‑21‑20).
• Approve a leave of absence for Kaitlin Kinsey effective 10‑14‑20, with benefits through 12‑31‑20.
• Approve salary adjustments, such as raising Sarah Meador’s salary to $71,943.50 effective 9‑15‑20, and appoint Aleksy Russin at $44,649.49 effective 10‑12‑20.

The board approved personnel recommendations, business affairs contracts, and the September 28 meeting minutes. Members discussed potential reopening models for the second grading period based on family survey results, but no final decision was made.

• Approved Regular Meeting Minutes from September 28, 2020 (7-0)
• Approved Personnel Recommendations (7-0)
• Approved Consent Agenda resolutions including 21st Century Grants and curricular fees (7-0)
• Approved Business Affairs Recommendations for various purchases and service agreements (7-0)

Legal Contracts and Policy Committee

The committee will conduct a second reading of several revised policies and a new policy on protective facial coverings during pandemic events. Related revisions to staff dress codes, student dress, and emergency procedures are also up for review. The committee will also receive status reports on a proposed facility naming policy and a racial equity policy.

• New Policy 8450.01 Protective Facial Coverings During Pandemic/Epidemic Events – second reading
• Revised Policy 5200 Attendance, 5610.03, 5610, 5611, 6325, 8500 – second reading
• Revised policies 3216, 4215, 5511, 8420 – revised as result of new Policy 8450.01
• Status report on policy for naming or renaming an APS facility
• Status report on racial equity policy

REGULAR BOARD MEETING

The Akron Board of Education will meet virtually on September 28, 2020. The agenda consists primarily of routine personnel items: resignations, leaves, new teacher appointments, salary revisions, and supplemental contracts for athletic coaches. No major policy or budgetary decisions are scheduled.

• Accept resignations/retirements of Jean Baltes and Susan Strebler effective June 4, 2021
• Grant leaves of absence to Lindsey Kichi, Samira Saab, and Makenzie Wickert through November 30, 2020
• Appoint Dexter Dave and Cesar Toala Veloz as teachers at $44,649.49 annual salary each
• Revise Michael Tucci's salary from $42,987.19 to $69,860.80 and Sandra Williams' from $51,405.40 to $79,137.85
• Issue limited supplemental contracts for athletic coaches including Geeya Gibson ($1,804.62), Brian Neugebauer ($9,023.08), and others at Buchtel, Ellet, Firestone, and Ken-Gar

The Board approved personnel recommendations, business affairs recommendations, and a consent agenda including various grants and appropriations. Members also agreed to proceed with a plan for special needs students that provides remote academics with on-site services after school.

• Approved September 14, 2020 meeting minutes (7-0)
• Approved personnel recommendations (7-0)
• Approved consent agenda resolutions and motions (7-0)
• Approved business affairs recommendations (7-0)
• Agreed to proceed with 'Option C' for special needs students (remote academics with on-site after-school services)

Instructional Policy Committee Meeting

The Instructional Policy Committee will review minutes, discuss a blended learning proposal for the superintendent to present to the board in October, and consider two spending items: a $267,926.74 Expanding Opportunities Grant and a $75,000 Edmentum online learning contract. Updates include progress at the I PROMISE School and several recent awards for STEM and health programs.

• Expanding Opportunities Grant of $267,926.74 to expand access for low-achieving/low-income students
• Edmentum EdOptions Academy K-5 online courses, total cost not to exceed $75,000 from ESSER Fund
• Blended learning proposal being finalized for superintendent to present at Oct 12 board meeting
• Graduation seals finalized per policy approved last March
• I PROMISE School master plan progress update

Finance Committee Meeting

The Finance Committee will discuss legislative updates (H.B. 305, S.B. 350), district-wide financial information including budget vs. actual, appropriations, a COVID-19 Public School District Re-Opening Grant Agreement, a levy timeline, and equity in spending with a focus on high school tech spending. No votes or decisions are scheduled; the meeting is limited to discussion and review.

• Discussion of H.B. 305 and S.B. 350 legislative updates
• Review of COVID-19 Public School District Re-Opening Grant Agreement
• May 2021 Levy Timeline presentation
• Equity and Transparency in Spending - High School Tech Spend analysis
• 2021 Appropriations Update

Joint Board of Review

The Joint Board of Review will vote on two change orders totaling $789,073.40 for school construction projects and receive updates on committee vacancies and the CLC Advisory Committee. The board also plans to approve meeting minutes and may recess into executive session.

• Change order not to exceed $465,000 for Hammond Construction to remove ACM-containing vermiculite at Ellet High School (walls of rooms 132, 136, 226, 230, 232, and main gym)
• Change order of $324,073.40 for Hammond Construction to add rubber tile and ceramic tile alternates at the Kenmore-Garfield Community Learning Center, funded by state and local funds
• Status of Citizens Monitoring Committee: need to fill three City of Akron and three Board of Education vacancies
• Status report on the CLC Advisory Committee, including membership roster and role per the Cooperative Agreement

REGULAR BOARD MEETING

The Akron Board of Education will consider a resolution to endorse the Akron Zoo's 0.8-mill renewal with a 0.4-mill increase levy on the November ballot. The board will also hear public comments from several residents regarding remote education and special needs students. Additionally, the board will act on routine personnel items including resignations, appointments, and salary revisions.

• Resolution #20-126 supporting the Akron Zoo levy (0.8-mill renewal + 0.4-mill increase, $2.92/month for $100k home)
• Public hearing requests: Max W. Thomas, Kevin Burkholder, Tammi McCloskey, Kristina Fox on remote learning and special needs students
• Presentation on state report card by Dr. Ellen McWilliams-Woods
• Personnel actions: 3 retirements, 5 new appointments (salaries $41k-$61k), 9 salary revisions, and supplemental pay of $11,175.58 for interim campus principal
• Approval of minutes from August 24, 2020 regular meeting and August 31, 2020 special meeting

The Board of Education approved a resolution of support for the Akron Zoo levy on the November ballot. Members also approved personnel recommendations, business affairs purchases, and the adoption of biotechnology and dance textbooks.

• Approved Resolution #20-126 in support of the Akron Zoo levy (7-0)
• Approved Regular Meeting Minutes from August 24, 2020, and Special Meeting Minutes from August 31, 2020 (7-0)
• Approved personnel recommendations for professional, supplemental, substitute, and support staff (7-0, Bruce Alexander abstained from Item 6.1)
• Approved consent agenda including adoption of Biotechnology and Dance textbooks and materials (7-0)
• Approved business affairs recommendations including various purchases and service agreements (7-0)

Legal Contract and Policy Committee Meeting

The Legal Contract and Policy Committee will discuss several board policy revisions that have been reviewed by senior staff, most from the August 2020 NEOLA Update. These policies are scheduled for a first reading at the September 14, 2020 Board meeting. The committee will also receive status reports on a proposed Employee Resource Group policy, facility naming or renaming, and a racial equity policy.

• Review of Board Policy revisions from August 2020 NEOLA Update
• Policy 5610.03 on Emergency Removal of Students
• Policy 8500 on Food Services
• Status report on proposed Employee Resource Group (ERG) policy
• Status reports on facility naming/renaming and racial equity policy

Finance Committee Meeting

The Finance Committee will discuss legislative updates including H.B. 305 and the EdChoice program, review district-wide financial information for the upcoming pre-audit meeting, and conduct a unit-level analysis using the Forecast5 tool. No votes or decisions are scheduled; the meeting is limited to discussion.

• Legislative update on H.B. 305 and EdChoice
• Review of the Fair School Funding Plan
• Pre-audit meeting preparations and review of employee classifications
• Unit-level analysis via Forecast5

SPECIAL BOARD MEETING

The Akron Board of Education will consider three resolutions authorizing the superintendent to immediately restart fall non-contact sports (Golf, Tennis, Cross Country, Volleyball), contact sports (Football, Soccer, Cheerleading), and high school marching bands. These activities were delayed by a prior resolution on August 10, 2020. The board will also recess into executive session.

• Resolution #20-123: Authorize restarting fall non-contact sports (Golf, Tennis, Cross Country, Volleyball) and FAST Program at Firestone Swimming Pool
• Resolution #20-124: Authorize restarting fall contact sports (Football, Soccer, Cheerleading)
• Resolution #20-125: Authorize restarting high school marching bands (grades 9-12)
• Consent agenda approval of all three resolutions as a single action item
• Executive session recess pursuant to Ohio Revised Code 121.22(G)

The Board approved resolutions to reinstate fall non-contact sports, fall contact sports, and high school marching bands. Each resolution passed with a 4-3 vote. The Board also entered an executive session to discuss personnel matters, though no action was taken from that session.

• Approved return of Fall Non-Contact Sports (4-3)
• Approved return of Fall Contact Sports (4-3)
• Approved return of High School Marching Bands (4-3)
• Recessed into Executive Session for personnel matters (7-0)

REGULAR BOARD MEETING

The board will hold a virtual regular meeting. They will discuss a service agreement with AccuTrain Corp. for professional development training at David Hill and Robinson CLCs, costing up to $15,200. They will also approve previous meeting minutes, recognize retiring employees, and act on personnel appointments, resignations, and salary revisions.

• Discussion of AccuTrain Corp. service agreement for $15,200 for Responsibility-Centered Discipline training at David Hill CLC and Robinson CLC (pulled from July 27 agenda)
• Approval of minutes from Aug 10 regular meeting and Aug 14-15 special meetings
• Recognition of 7 retirees with Distinguished Employee Emeritus Certificates, including William Miller (45 years)
• Appointment of 5 professional staff members with salaries (e.g., Amanda Cain at $53,491.70)
• Revision of salary rates for multiple staff (e.g., Roger Gasser from $44,649.49 to $69,860.80)

The Board approved a service agreement with AccuTrain Corp. for professional development at David Hill and Robinson CLCs. Personnel recommendations and various business affairs contracts were also approved. A resolution to return fall contact sports was denied.

• Approved AccuTrain Corp. service agreement for David Hill & Robinson CLCs not to exceed $15,200 (4-3)
• Approved personnel recommendations in categories 6 thru 17 (7-0)
• Approved resolutions and motions in consent agenda category 22 (7-0)
• Approved business affairs recommendations in category 24 (7-0)
• Denied resolution for return of fall contact sports (3-4)
• Approved meeting minutes from August 10, 14, and 15, 2020 (7-0)

Instructional Policy Committee Meeting

The Instructional Policy Committee will review meeting minutes, receive updates on the CCAA and I PROMISE School, and discuss reopening guidance. Staff will present recommendations for textbook adoptions in biotechnology and dance for grades 9–12. The committee will also consider proposals for a $12,000 training grant, a $75,062 technology membership, and $142,000 in math supplies.

• $12,000 Summit Education Initiative grant for Process Mapping Training
• Textbook adoption recommendations for grades 9–12 biotechnology and dance pathways
• $75,062 continuation agreement with New Tech Network, Inc. for Buchtel CLC
• $142,000 purchase of math manipulative kits from Hand2Mind, Inc. for grades K–5
• Review of APS Connected Learning 2.0 draft guidance documents

Finance Committee Meeting

The Finance Committee of Akron Public Schools will hold a meeting on August 17, 2020, to discuss several financial topics. They will hear a legislative update on H.B. 305, review district-wide financial information related to reopening plans, federal stimulus funds, and levy information. The committee will also examine unit-level financial analysis focusing on data-driven insights, equity, and transparency. No votes are scheduled; all items are for discussion only.

• Discussion of H.B. 305 legislative update
• Update on federal stimulus funds for COVID-19
• Levy information for potential tax issues
• Data-driven financial unit-level analysis with equity focus
• Reopening plans financial impact

SPECIAL BOARD MEETING - RETREAT

The Akron Public Schools Board holds the second day of a two-day retreat to discuss diversity, equity, inclusion, and racial justice; vision and strategic planning; and finance and levy. The board also may recess into executive session and consider possible action from it.

• Discussion on Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, & Racial Justice
• Vision & Strategic Planning, Part 2
• Finance & Levy discussion
• Executive session pursuant to Ohio Revised Code 121.22(G)
• Possible action from executive session

The Board held a virtual retreat to discuss diversity, strategic planning, and finance. The minutes record that no action was taken during the meeting.

• Adjourned meeting (7-0)

SPECIAL BOARD MEETING - RETREAT

The Akron Public Schools Board holds a two-day retreat to discuss reopening plans and strategic planning. The board will recess into executive session under Ohio Revised Code 121.22(G) and may take action afterward.

• Discussion of Re-Opening Plan
• Discussion of Vision & Strategic Planning
• Recess into Executive Session under ORC 121.22(G)
• Possible action from Executive Session

The Board held a virtual retreat to discuss the re-opening plan and vision and strategic planning. No formal actions or decisions were taken following an executive session regarding employee employment.

• Recessed into Executive Session to consider employment of a public employee (7-0)
• No action taken following Executive Session
• Adjourned meeting (7-0)

REGULAR BOARD MEETING

The Akron Board of Education is reviewing various personnel recommendations for the 2020-2021 school year. These items include professional staff appointments, transfers, salary revisions, and the employment of substitute teachers and tutors.

• Appointment of professional staff including Nick Ball ($42,457.29) and Margaret Graham ($46,732.18)
• Transfer of Rebekah Goldsmith to Elementary Teacher ($55,884.87)
• Salary revision for Katelyn Heginbotham from $41,014.01 to $50,185.15
• Extended-time employment for Academy Principal Yolanda Bradford not to exceed $4,509.40
• Employment of substitute school psychologists at $374.61 per day

Finance Committee Meeting

The Akron Public Schools Finance Committee will discuss a legislative update, the district-wide financial information including the 2020/2021 budget review, and a unit-level analysis. No votes or decisions are listed; the meeting is primarily for review and discussion.

• Legislative update
• 2020/2021 budget review
• District-wide financial information
• Unit-level analysis

Legal, Contracts and Board Policy

The Legal, Contracts and Board Policy committee is discussing new Title IX regulations that require significant policy revisions and staff training before the 2020-2021 school year. The committee is also reviewing a NEOLA update containing 16 policies, including a new policy on protective facial coverings during the pandemic. Follow-up items include status reports on a proposed racial equity policy and a policy for naming or renaming school facilities.

• Discussion of Title IX regulations requiring policy and training updates
• Review of NEOLA update including new Policy 8450.01 on protective facial coverings during pandemic
• Status report on proposed new racial equity policy
• Status report on proposed policy for naming or renaming APS facilities
• Previous meeting summary from July 6, 2020

REGULAR BOARD MEETING

The Akron Board of Education will hold a virtual regular meeting to approve personnel actions including appointments, resignations, transfers, and salary adjustments for the 2020-2021 school year. The board will also hear two public comments about safety near Dave Marshall Baseball Field at Firestone High School, and review minutes from previous meetings.

• Appointment of 10 professional staff members for 2020-21 with salaries ranging from $41,014 to $71,944
• Salary revisions for four teachers (Bowman, Guy, Fritzen, Toth) effective August 24, 2020
• Supplemental pay of $4,000 for Keith Liechty-Clifford for interim supervisory duties
• Public comment requests from Scott Dodson and Shammas Malik on safety around Dave Marshall Baseball Field
• Resignation of teacher Gabriela Smith (effective 7-15-20) and retirement of teacher Karen Brandt (effective 7-21-20)

The board approved a comprehensive set of personnel recommendations and a consent agenda including transportation and legal services. Most business affairs recommendations were approved, though several staff development contracts were withdrawn and one training agreement was pulled for equity review.

• Approved personnel recommendations for categories 5 through 16 (7-0)
• Approved consent agenda resolutions for legal services, transportation, and grants (7-0)
• Approved business recommendations 23.1-23.5, 23.17-23.27, and 23.29-23.33 (7-0)
• Approved $78,000 purchase and service contract for baseball field netting (Item 23.29)
• Withdrew staff development contracts for Corwin Press (Items 23.6-23.16)
• Pulled AccuTrain Corp service agreement (Item 23.28) for equity review
• Approved meeting minutes from July 13 and July 20, 2020 (7-0)

Instructional Policy Committee Meeting

The Instructional Policy Committee will review minutes from June 16, then discuss proposed service agreements with Corwin Press for professional development at multiple CLCs totaling $285,200 from the School Quality Improvement Grant, and a purchase of Career Cruising curriculum licenses from Xello Inc. for $36,635.47 from the General Fund. The committee will also receive an update on the Family Resource Center.

• Service agreements with Corwin Press for PD at Case, Crouse, David Hill, Forest Hill, Glover, Hatton, Helen Arnold, Jennings, McEbright, Seiberling, and Voris CLCs, not to exceed $285,200
• Purchase of 5,962 high school and 4,637 middle/elementary user licenses for Career Cruising curriculum from Xello Inc., total $36,635.47
• Review of Instructional Policy Meeting minutes from June 16, 2020
• Update on Family Resource Center

SPECIAL BOARD MEETING

The Akron Board of Education will hold a special virtual meeting on July 20, 2020, to discuss a potential future levy and the plan for reopening schools for the 2020-2021 school year. The board is considering three resolutions of necessity for levies of 6.9, 7.9, and 8.9 mills. No votes are final; this is a discussion and action item.

• Discussion of Resolution #20-087 for a 6.9-mill levy
• Discussion of Resolution #20-088 for a 7.9-mill levy
• Discussion of Resolution #20-089 for an 8.9-mill levy
• Update on plan for reopening schools for the 2020-2021 school year

The Board approved three different millage options for a potential November ballot to address a projected deficit that could exceed $15 million by June 2021. The Board also discussed reopening plans for the 2020-2021 school year, including a potential 100% remote start, but took no action on a final plan.

• Approved Resolution #1 for 6.9 mills (7-0)
• Approved Resolution #2 for 7.9 mills (7-0)
• Approved Resolution #3 for 8.9 mills (7-0)

REGULAR BOARD MEETING

The Akron Board of Education will hold a virtual regular meeting on July 13, 2020 to consider approvals and recommendations. Items include approval of minutes from four prior meetings, a series of resignations, retirements, and a rescission of a teacher’s employment. The board will also consider appointments and reinstatements of professional staff with specified salaries, and revisions to annual salary rates for several employees. Additional recommendations involve limited supplemental contracts for coaches with dollar amounts.

• Approve minutes from Special Board Meetings (June 19, June 29, July 1) and Regular Meeting (June 22)
• Accept resignations/retirements of eight professional staff members (e.g., Elayne Fender, Matthew Grissom, Taylor Irwin, Leydy A. Renteria-Merced, Carol Traugh, Colleen VanNatta, Sharise Wriston)
• Rescind employment of Tyler Ward, Teacher, Job Code 006, effective before services began
• Appoint/reinstate teachers with salaries (e.g., Meghan Arsenault – $42,457.29; Roger Gasser – $44,649.49; Taylor Guy – $41,014.01; Morgan Heavilin – $103,710.77)
• Revise annual salary rates for staff (e.g., Michele Crum $46,768.69 → $54,679.06; Laura King $45,033.38 → $63,284.21; Summer Lamp $44,649.49 → $52,121.42; Kara Putnam $44,649.49 → $69,860.80)

The Board approved a series of personnel recommendations and business affairs contracts. It also adopted three updated policies regarding purchases, federal grant procurement, and electronic signatures. The meeting included discussions on the 2020-2021 school reopening plan and racial equity policies.

• Approved meeting minutes from June 19, June 22, June 29, and July 1, 2020
• Approved personnel recommendations (Bruce Alexander abstained on Item 5.8)
• Approved consent agenda resolutions including donations and grants from GPD Employee Foundation and LeBron James Family Foundation
• Approved business affairs recommendations for 24 items including service agreements and purchase contracts
• Approved Policy 6320 - Purchases
• Approved Policy 6325 - Procurement - Federal Grants/Funds
• Approved Policy 6107 - Authorization to Accept and Distribute Electronic Records and to Use Electronic Signatures

Legal, Contracts and Board Policy

The Legal, Contracts and Board Policy committee is discussing second readings of revisions to Policy 6320 (Purchases) and Policy 6325 (Procurement - Federal Grants/Funds) prior to full board approval. The committee will also receive status reports on proposed new policies on racial equity, naming, and electronic records, and review a legal alert on House Bill 164, which affects school funding, student religious liberties, teacher evaluations, and other COVID-19-related school operations.

• Second reading of Policy 6320 Purchases revision
• Second reading of Policy 6325 Procurement - Federal Grants/Funds revision
• Status report on proposed new Racial Equity Policy
• Status report on proposed new Naming Policy
• Review of NEOLA Legal Alert on House Bill 164, including school funding, student religious liberty, teacher evaluations, and remote learning provisions

SPECIAL BOARD MEETING

The Akron Board of Education will hold a special meeting on July 1, 2020 at 4:30 p.m., conducted virtually. The agenda includes opening formalities and a discussion of a future levy, with CCAA data for 2019‑2020 attached. No other actions are listed.

• Future levy discussion (information presentation) – CCAA Data 2019‑2020.pdf attached

The Board held a special meeting to discuss the possibility of placing a levy on the ballot. This included a presentation of College & Career Academies of Akron Outcome Data for 2018 to 2020. No substantive actions were taken.

• No action taken regarding future levy

SPECIAL BOARD MEETING

The Akron Board of Education held a virtual special meeting to consider several financial actions. Items include cash transfers between funds, adoption of the final FY2020 appropriations, and temporary beginning appropriations for FY2021. All three measures are presented as resolutions on the consent agenda.

• Resolution #20-080: Cash transfers – $22,981.26 to Secondary Summer School, $1,185,369.00 to OFCC Maintenance Fund, $100,000 to Unemployment Fund, $100,000 to Liability Self‑Insurance Fund
• Resolution #20-081: Final FY20 appropriations – total $586,378,420.45 allocated across salaries, fringe benefits, purchased services, capital outlay, and other funds
• Resolution #20-082: Temporary FY21 beginning appropriations – $90,000,000 to General Fund, $300,000 to Special Trust Fund, $300,000 to Public School Support Fund

The Board approved resolutions for cash transfers and school year appropriations. Superintendent David W. James presented a preliminary school re-opening plan, which is pending final approval at a future meeting.

• Approved Resolution - Cash Transfers (7-0)
• Approved Resolution - Final FY20 Appropriations (7-0)
• Approved Resolution - Temporary Beginning FY21 Appropriations (7-0)

REGULAR BOARD MEETING

The Akron Board of Education will consider a series of personnel actions, including resignations, new appointments, and salary revisions for professional staff. It will set an extended‑time hourly rate of $31.82 and a workshop stipend rate of $14.00 for FY21. Funding assignments for Title I, Title ID, Special Education, and Early Childhood Education will also be recommended. All items are presented for board approval at the June 22, 2020 meeting.

• Approval of staff appointments with salaries from $41,014.01 to $88,797.79
• Rescission of employment for Amanda Wycuff (Dean of Students) before start date
• Extended‑Time Employment rate set at $31.82 per hour for FY21
• Workshop Stipend rate set at $14.00 per hour for FY21
• Funding assignment of Counselor Dreama Mason-Whitefield to Title ID Fund 572-2128

The Board approved a comprehensive set of personnel recommendations and business affairs contracts. It also passed a consent agenda including financial reports and emergency repairs. The Superintendent announced a forthcoming plan for school re-opening in the fall.

• Approved Regular Meeting Minutes from June 8, 2020 (7-0)
• Approved Personnel Recommendations for categories 5 through 16 (7-0)
• Approved Consent Agenda including financial reports and $65,670 in GAR Foundation grants (7-0)
• Approved emergency repair of Variable Frequency Drives at Forest Hill CLC (7-0)
• Approved emergency repair of natural gas line at Central Distribution Center/Transportation Services Building (7-0)
• Approved Business Affairs Recommendations for multiple vendors and service agreements (7-0)

SPECIAL BOARD MEETING

The Akron Board of Education is holding a virtual special meeting regarding a future levy. This item is listed as a discussion item for the board.

• Discussion of a future levy

The Board held a special meeting to discuss the possibility of placing a levy on the ballot. No substantive decisions or actions were taken during this session.

Instructional Policy Committee Meeting

The Instructional Policy Committee will review minutes from May and receive updates on the College & Career Academy of Akron, I PROMISE School master plan, and Reopening & Recovery Action Plans. A timeline for the Middle School Transformation Plan is also to be discussed.

• Review of May 12, 2020 meeting minutes
• Update on College & Career Academy of Akron (CCAA)
• Middle School Transformation Plan timeline discussion
• I PROMISE School master plan progress update
• Reopening & Recovery Action Plans update

Finance Committee Meeting

The Akron Public Schools Finance Committee will review district financial data, including a five-year forecast and a May 2020 financial report. Members will discuss CARES Act funding, a proposed 5% insurance rate increase, and how finances align with the district's equity policy. These reviews track how public funds are allocated and how operational costs may change. The agenda also covers per-pupil spending data and Energy Star program usage.

• Review of five-year forecast and Ohio Department of Taxation May update
• Review of CARES Act funding and expenditures
• Insurance rate development showing a 5% increase
• Application of equity policy to district-wide finances
• Review of per-pupil spending and economically disadvantaged data

Legal, Contracts and Board Policy

The Legal, Contracts and Board Policy Committee will review previous meeting summaries and discuss a proposed racial equity policy, a new policy for naming or renaming school facilities, and a second reading of a policy on electronic records and signatures. They will also review proposed revisions to purchasing policies and a recent Title IX regulation update from the U.S. Department of Education that requires staff training before the 2020-2021 school year.

• Discussion of Racial Equity Policy (Policy 2260.04 and 2260.05) following the June 8 resolution declaring racism a public health crisis
• Proposed new policy for naming or renaming an APS facility, with timetable to be determined
• Second reading of new Policy 6107 on electronic records and signatures
• Review of Policy 6320 (Purchases) revision and new Policy 6325 (Procurement – Federal Grants/Funds)
• Review of NEOLA Special Release on Title IX regulations, effective August 14, 2020, requiring policy updates and staff training

REGULAR BOARD MEETING

The Akron Board of Education is considering Resolution #20-065 to declare racism a public health crisis. This resolution directs various committees to revise racial equity policies, integrate culturally relevant content into the curriculum, and implement diversity training for staff.

• Resolution #20-065: Declaring racism a public health crisis
• Employment of Amanda Wycuff as Dean of Students at $85,455.95 annual salary
• Professional staff appointments including Nicole Berkhouse ($71,943.50) and Jeannine Champe ($84,866.19)
• Professional staff appointments including Ashley Gee ($83,454.12) and Tristyn Matthews ($70,335.83)

The Board approved a resolution declaring racism a public health crisis that adversely impacts students, families, and staff. Other actions included approving personnel recommendations, business affairs contracts, and previous meeting minutes.

• Approved Resolution #20-065 declaring racism a public health crisis (7-0)
• Approved personnel recommendations for professional, supplemental, and support staff (7-0)
• Approved consent agenda including donations, grants, and textbook adoptions (6-0, 1 abstain)
• Approved business affairs recommendations and service contracts (6-0, 1 abstain)
• Approved meeting minutes from May 18 and May 27, 2020 (7-0)

SPECIAL BOARD MEETING

This special board meeting is called solely to discuss a future levy. No votes or decisions are scheduled; the agenda consists of roll call, pledge, discussion, and adjournment.

• Discussion of a future levy (no specifics given)

The Board held a discussion regarding levy basics, district history, and the timeline for potential November ballot resolutions. No substantive actions were taken during the meeting.

• Discussed potential future levy and timeline for November ballot resolutions
• Adjourned meeting (7-0)

Joint Board of Review

The Akron Public Schools Joint Board of Review will consider approval of February 10 meeting minutes, review and recommend replacements for Citizens Monitoring Committee appointees, and vote on three fiscal items: a $64,996.25 contract with G. Stephens Inc. for workforce monitoring on Imagine Akron CLC projects, authorization of up to $300,000 in utility costs for Kenmore/Garfield CLC construction, and a $129,944 service agreement with Palmer Conservation Consulting for energy conservation services.

• Approval of February 10, 2020 meeting minutes
• Status update and replacement recommendations for Citizens Monitoring Committee appointees
• Purchase order approval of $64,996.25 to G. Stephens, Inc. for 2020 workforce monitoring consulting
• Authorization of $300,000 in purchase orders for utility costs during Kenmore/Garfield CLC construction
• Service agreement with Palmer Conservation Consulting for $129,944 for energy conservation systems integration

Finance Committee Meeting

The Finance Committee will hold a discussion on the five-year forecast for Akron Public Schools. The meeting includes roll call, review, and follow-up items, but the primary substantive agenda item is the forecast discussion.

• Discussion of the Five Year Forecast (May 2020)

REGULAR BOARD MEETING

The Akron Board of Education will consider approving the Five-Year Forecast beginning FY20, presented by CFO Ryan Pendleton. The board also will act on personnel items including resignations, new hires, and the non-renewal of Michelle Bayma's teaching contract. The meeting will be held virtually on May 18, 2020.

• Resolution #20-059 to approve Five-Year Forecast beginning FY20
• Non-renewal of limited teaching contract for Michelle Bayma
• Resignations/retirements of Mary Blumberg and David Harter
• New hires for six professional staff for 2020-21, with salaries ranging from $41,014 to $66,828
• Continuing contract status granted to 40+ teachers for 2020-21

The Board approved the May 2020 Five-Year Forecast and discussed the potential need for a new levy due to pandemic-related financial uncertainty. The Board also approved various personnel recommendations and business affairs contracts.

• Approved May 2020 Five-Year Forecast (7-0)
• Approved May 4, 2020 meeting minutes (7-0)
• Approved personnel recommendations for Categories 5-16, excluding Item 5.2 (7-0)
• Approved Consent Agenda resolutions and motions in Category 21 (7-0, 1 abstain on Item 21.5)
• Approved Business Affairs Recommendations in Category 23 (7-0)

Instructional Policy Committee Meeting

The Instructional Policy Committee will review minutes from April and discuss consent agenda items: textbook adoptions for mathematics (Algebra II, Pre-Calculus, etc.), NIHF STEM grades 6-8, and CCAA Fire Safety program grades 10-12, as well as graded course of study updates for College & Career Academies. They will also discuss a process and timeline for proposing a fall 2020 reopening and recovery plan. Updates will be given on the College & Career Academy of Akron and the Family Resource Center.

• Textbook adoption for Algebra II, Pre-Calculus, Introductory Analysis, Applied Statistics, AP Statistics, and AP Calculus
• Textbook adoption for NIHF STEM mathematics for grades 6-8
• Textbook adoption for CCAA Fire Safety program grades 10-12 (Jones & Bartlett)
• Graded course of study updates for JM Allied Health and N0 Information Technology pathways
• Discussion of process and timeline for fall 2020 reopening and recovery

Finance Committee Meeting

The Finance Committee will review the district’s 403(b) plan administration services. It will also consider the 403(b) plan assignment agreement. The committee will discuss the five‑year financial forecast and the timeline for any levy.

• Review of 403(b) Plan Administration Services
• Consideration of 403(b) Plan Assignment Agreement
• Discussion of Five Year Forecast
• Discussion of Levy Timeline

REGULAR BOARD MEETING

The Akron Board of Education will meet virtually on May 4, 2020, to approve personnel recommendations including professional staff appointments, resignations, and transfers. They will also discuss a third reading of Bylaw 0169.1 on public participation at board meetings and approve a final list of parent transportation contracts at $250 per student. The agenda is primarily routine personnel actions.

• Approval of personnel recommendations: appointments with salaries (e.g., Melinda Arnitsis $64,982.95, Aaron Male $46,257.24, Kelly New $54,628.42)
• Resignations/retirements: professional staff (Katie Gaston, Wendy Gillespie, Kathryn Sabath) and support staff (Kimberly Varvorines)
• Third reading of Bylaw 0169.1 – Public Participation at Board Meetings
• Contracts with parents for transporting students: $250 per student for 2019-2020 school year (final list)
• Funding changes for support staff: Jeff Kozlowski and Lisa Gleghorn

The Board approved a series of personnel recommendations and business affairs contracts. It also approved a consent agenda including grants and budget revisions, and passed the minutes from the April 20 meeting.

• Approved Regular Meeting Minutes from April 20, 2020 (7-0)
• Approved Personnel Recommendations for categories 5 through 16 (7-0)
• Approved Consent Agenda including City of Akron grant and budget revisions (7-0)
• Approved Business Affairs Recommendations for 13 service and purchase contracts (7-0)

Legal, Contracts and Board Policy

The Legal, Contracts and Board Policy committee will review the previous meeting summary, discuss proposed changes to Bylaw 0169.01 on public participation, and consider a new policy for naming or renaming APS facilities. No votes or final actions are scheduled at this committee meeting.

• Review of March 20, 2020 meeting summary
• Discussion of Bylaw 0169.01 Public Participation
• Proposed new policy on naming or renaming an APS facility
• Next meeting date to be reviewed

REGULAR BOARD MEETING

The Akron Board of Education meets virtually on April 20, 2020. They will vote on approving previous meeting minutes, numerous personnel actions (retirements, resignations, leaves, appointments, transfers), and board letters including membership in OHSAA and the 2021-2022 school calendar (Option 2, selected by staff referendum). A $20 donation is also accepted.

• Approve minutes from April 6 regular and April 10 special meetings
• Accept retirements of Daniel Buechele, David Skelly, Hoa Tao; resignation of child nutrition worker Roslyn Gills
• Appoint Courtney Jones as teacher at $40,913.38 annual salary
• Approve 2021-2022 school calendar (Option 2) with first day for students August 24, 2021, last day June 2, 2022
• Acknowledge death of teacher Daniel Spak of Firestone CLC

The board approved personnel recommendations for categories 6 through 16 and various business affairs contracts. Members also approved the minutes from April 6 and April 10, 2020, and a consent agenda including financial reports and grant awards. The Superintendent confirmed schools will remain closed for the rest of the school year.

• Approved Regular Meeting Minutes (April 6) and Special Meeting Minutes (April 10) (7-0)
• Approved Personnel Recommendations for Categories 6 through 16 (7-0)
• Approved Consent Agenda including OHSAA membership, 2021-2022 school calendar, and financial reports (7-0)
• Approved Business Affairs Recommendations including contracts with National Food Group, Parkplay Solutions, LLC, and Integrated Precision Systems, Inc. (7-0)
• Approved professional engineering service agreement with Mays Consulting & Evaluation Services, Inc. (7-0)
• Approved intergovernmental agreement with the County of Summit, Ohio (7-0)

Instructional Policy Committee Meeting

The Instructional Policy Committee will review minutes from February 27, discuss APS Connected Learning Guidance Documents that automatically take effect when students learn from home during prolonged emergencies, and receive updates on the NAMM Foundation award for music education, College & Career Academy of Akron, and I PROMISE School. The committee will also hear a report on APS Connected Learning, noting that 19,482 students are connected but 907 are not yet connected, representing 95.6% connectivity to chromebook tasks.

• Discussion of APS Connected Learning Guidance Documents for remote learning during emergencies
• Recognition of Akron as a Best Community for Music Education by NAMM Foundation
• Update on APS Connected Learning: 19,482 connected, 907 not (95.6%)
• Update on College & Career Academy of Akron
• Update on I PROMISE School master plan progress

SPECIAL BOARD MEETING

The Akron Board of Education will vote on two resolutions continuing formula-based pay for certain employees and contractors whose compensation was reduced by school closure orders, through April 24, 2020. The board also considers a $60,000 T-Mobile service agreement for data access on 500 devices for staff and students. An executive session is scheduled to discuss public employee compensation.

• T-Mobile service agreement for data access on 500 devices, total cost not to exceed $60,000, effective April 11, 2020 for six months
• Resolution #20-045 to continue payroll for certain employee classifications through April 24, 2020 during COVID-19 closure
• Resolution #20-046 to continue payment for certain vendors/contractors through April 24, 2020 during COVID-19 closure
• Executive session under Ohio Revised Code 121.22(G)(1) to consider compensation of public employees

The Board approved resolutions to maintain payroll for specific employee classifications and payments to certain vendors and contractors during school closures caused by COVID-19. A T-Mobile service agreement was also approved. The Board discussed the procurement of face masks and hand sanitizer for food service employees.

• Approved T-Mobile Service Agreement (7-0)
• Approved Resolution #20-045 to continue payroll for certain employee classifications during COVID-19 closures (6-0)
• Approved Resolution #20-046 to continue payment for certain vendors/contractors during COVID-19 closures (6-0)

REGULAR BOARD MEETING

The Akron Board of Education will consider personnel appointments, transfers, and resignations; approve a $449,300 contract with T.H. Martin Inc. for the NIHF-STEM Cooling Plant Upgrade Project; accept various donations; and approve previous meeting minutes. The meeting is held virtually due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

• Contract with T.H. Martin Inc. for $449,300 for NIHF-STEM Cooling Plant Upgrade Project
• Acceptance of donations including $750 from Partners for Theater and items for Pfeiffer Elementary track team
• Personnel appointments: Suzanne Eggeman ($51,306.81), Jenna Middleton ($77,001.20), Michelle Myers ($66,789.90), Nicole Villers ($49,056.85)
• Amendment to consulting agreement with aha! Process, Inc. extending 'Emotional Poverty' training through August 31, 2020 due to school closure
• Purchase of floor care supplies for summer custodial maintenance district-wide, total not to exceed $110,000

The Board approved personnel recommendations across 12 categories and business affairs contracts. Members also approved minutes from three previous meetings and accepted donations. The meeting included a report on the transition to 100% online learning.

• Approved Special Meeting Minutes from March 19, March 23, and April 2, 2020 (7-0)
• Approved Personnel Recommendations for categories 5 through 16 (6-0, 1 absent)
• Approved acceptance of donations (7-0)
• Approved Business Affairs Recommendations for T.H. Martin Inc., aha! Process, Inc, and Alco (7-0)
• Approved recess into Executive Session (7-0)

SPECIAL BOARD MEETING

This special board meeting is almost entirely procedural, with the board entering executive session to discuss personnel matters under Ohio law. No public votes on policy or contracts are scheduled. The next regular meeting will be on April 6, 2020.

• Executive session to consider personnel (Ohio Revised Code 121.22(G)(1))
• Possible new agenda items may arise from executive session
• Next regular meeting scheduled for April 6, 2020 at 5:30 p.m.

The Board recessed into executive session to discuss personnel employment, but no action was taken following the session. Officials discussed the impact of the federal stimulus package and the transition to virtual classrooms.

• Approved motion to recess into Executive Session to discuss personnel employment (7-0)
• Adjourned meeting (7-0)

REGULAR BOARD MEETING

The Akron Board of Education will hold a regular meeting on March 23, 2020, with a consent agenda including resolutions to suspend in-person board meetings and continue payroll for certain employees during the COVID-19 emergency. The board will also hear the third reading of policies on graduation requirements and students at risk of not qualifying for a diploma. Personnel actions include appointments, resignations, and supplemental contracts, as well as approval of donations totaling $1,551.

• Resolution to suspend in-person board meetings during state of emergency and public health orders for COVID-19
• Resolution to continue payroll for certain employee classifications during school closure due to COVID-19
• Third reading of Policy 5460 (Graduation Requirements) and Policy 5460.02 (Students At-Risk of Not Qualifying for a High School Diploma)
• Appointment of four professional staff members with salaries from $46,681.40 to $69,861.74 (Kelly Krebs, Abigail Morris, Valerie Schwarz, Linea Wade)
• Donations accepted: $50, $375, $500, and $626 from community organizations

The Board approved a resolution to suspend in-person meetings during the state of emergency and public health orders. Other actions included approving personnel recommendations, business affairs contracts, and updated graduation policies.

• Approved resolution to suspend in-person board meetings (7-0)
• Approved March 12, 2020 meeting minutes (7-0)
• Approved personnel recommendations (7-0)
• Approved consent agenda resolutions and motions (7-0)
• Approved business affairs recommendations (7-0)
• Approved Policy 5460 - Graduation Requirements (7-0)
• Approved Policy 5460.02 - Students at Risk of Not Qualifying for a High School Diploma (7-0)
• Approved AG 5460D - Criteria for Awarding the 'Graduation Seals' (7-0)

Legal & Policy Committee Meeting

The Legal & Policy Committee of Akron Public Schools meets for second readings of proposed policies before full board approval. Items include revised graduation requirements, a new policy for students at risk of not qualifying for a diploma, criteria for graduation seals, and a bylaw governing public participation at board meetings. No final decisions are made at this meeting; it is a discussion step.

• Second reading of Revised Policy 5460 – Graduation Requirements
• Second reading of NEW Policy 5460.02 – Students At Risk of Not Qualifying for a High School Diploma
• Second reading of AG 5460D – Criteria for Awarding the 'Graduation Seals'
• Second reading of Bylaw po0169.1 – Public Participation at Board Meetings

SPECIAL BOARD MEETING

The Akron Board of Education is holding a special meeting to act on two resolutions related to the COVID-19 emergency: one authorizing the Superintendent to keep district operations running during the state-ordered school closure, and another authorizing pay for hourly and substitute employees who would otherwise face economic hardship. The board will also recess into executive session to discuss employee compensation, legal matters, and security protocols.

• Resolution #20-040 authorizing the Superintendent to maintain district operations during the COVID-19 emergency, including recalling staff and continuing educational services.
• Resolution #20-041 authorizing pay for substitute teachers, substitute bus drivers, custodial pool workers, security, and other hourly classifications during the school closure.
• Executive session under Ohio Revised Code 121.22(G)(1), (G)(3), and (G)(6) for compensation, legal counsel, and security arrangements.
• Discussion of maintaining continuity of educational services for students during the closure ordered by the Ohio Department of Health.
• The closure order began March 14, 2020, with an expiration date of April 3, 2020, subject to extension.

The Board approved resolutions regarding district operations and employee compensation in response to the COVID-19 emergency. Both measures passed with unanimous support from the members present.

• Approved resolution authorizing Superintendent to maintain district operations during COVID-19 emergency (7-0)
• Approved resolution regarding employee compensation under extreme circumstances (7-0)

REGULAR BOARD MEETING

The Akron Board of Education will hold a regular meeting with a focus on routine personnel actions, including approval of resignations/retirements, leaves of absence, and staff appointments. The agenda also includes approval of previous meeting minutes and supplemental contracts for extracurricular roles. No major policy changes or public hearings are scheduled.

• Approval of resignations/retirements for four staff members, including Bobbie Smith and Karen White
• Leave of absence requests for three professional staff members through May 2020
• Reappointment of Taylor Irwin at $52,235.74 and Lesley Trendell at $76,665.74
• Salary adjustments for Rayna Antol ($34,145.07) and Valerie Kemple ($54,628.42)
• Limited supplemental contracts for 19 Akron Reads Coordinator of Volunteers positions ($429.92–$859.85)

The Board approved updated school safety and emergency situation policies. Members also approved a series of personnel recommendations, business affairs contracts, and a consent agenda including grants and textbook adoptions. Superintendent David W. James announced that all schools will close for three weeks starting March 16, 2020, per Governor instructions.

• Approved Policy 8400 (School Safety) and Policy 8420 (Emergency Situations at Schools) (7-0)
• Approved personnel recommendations for professional, supplemental, substitute, and support staff (7-0, 3 abstentions)
• Approved business affairs recommendations including contracts with AT&T, Verizon, and CenturyLink (7-0)
• Approved consent agenda including Spanish textbook adoption and grants from United Way and Corporation for Public Broadcasting (7-0)
• Approved termination of Educational Assistant Farren Murphy (7-0)
• Approved February 24, 2020 meeting minutes (7-0)

Legal and Policy Committee Meeting

The Legal and Policy Committee will discuss the NEOLA update and conduct a second reading of revised Policy 8400 (School Safety) and Policy 8420 (Emergency Situations at Schools) prior to approval.

• Discussion of NEOLA's January 2020, Vol. 38, No. 2 update
• Second reading of Revised Policy 8400 - School Safety
• Second reading of Revised Policy 8420 - Emergency Situations at Schools

Instructional Policy Committee Meeting

The Instructional Policy Committee will review minutes from the previous meeting, hear a student presentation from Firestone CLC on an eco-friendly alternative to Styrofoam lunch trays, and discuss the Graduation Policy and Seal. No formal votes are scheduled; the meeting is dedicated to presentations and discussion.

• Review of minutes from February 18, 2020 Instructional Policy Meeting
• Student presentation on environmentally and economically friendly alternative to Styrofoam trays (Firestone CLC IB)
• Discussion of Graduation Policy & Seal Presentation

REGULAR BOARD MEETING

The Akron Board of Education will hear a status report from Akron Promise on its work with Kenmore-Garfield High School students. The board will also approve minutes from the previous meeting and act on numerous personnel recommendations including leaves of absence, appointments, transfers, and supplemental contracts for school coaches. Several individuals will be employed as substitute teachers.

• Presentation from Akron Promise founder Tom Ghinder on Kenmore-Garfield student programs
• Leave of absence granted to four professional staff members (Arnitsis, Maholm, Nicolino, Villers)
• Appointment of De'Anna Caldwell-Edwards as administrator at $86,801.36 annual salary
• Appointment of Laura Kovach as librarian at $76,665.74 annual salary
• Supplemental contracts for 24 coaching positions at various schools with pay rates ranging from $1,323.04 to $6,013.78

The Board approved a comprehensive set of personnel recommendations across multiple staff categories and a series of business affairs service agreements. Additionally, the Board approved the previous meeting's minutes and a consent agenda including tax rate certifications and grants.

• Approved Regular Meeting Minutes from February 10, 2020 (7-0)
• Approved Personnel Recommendations for categories 5 through 16 (7-0, 1 abstention on item 11.4)
• Approved Consent Agenda including tax rate certifications, donations, and grants (7-0)
• Approved Business Affairs Recommendations for 18 service agreements and purchases (7-0)

Finance Committee Meeting

The Finance Committee will discuss overviews of federal programs (Title I, IDEA, CCAA, Title II) and review appropriations for FY19 as well as proposed tax levy amounts and rates for the 2020-2021 fiscal year. These items are informational and no votes are scheduled.

• Discussion of Title I, IDEA, CCAA, and Title II program overviews
• Review of FY19 Appropriations resolution
• Review of 2020-2021 tax levy amounts and rates

Instructional Policy Committee Meeting

The Instructional Policy Committee will review minutes, discuss the superintendent's recommendations, and consider a consent agenda including several grants and a textbook adoption. Updates will be given on the College & Career Academy of Akron middle school transformation, the I PROMISE School master plan, the Family Resource Center, the Equity Plan, and the Get 2 School initiative.

• $6,000 from Summit Education Initiative for FAFSA Encouragers
• $1,180 Martha Holden Jennings grant for Seurat project at Resnik CLC
• $2,664 Martha Holden Jennings grant for VR studio expansion at NIHF STEM HS
• $5,000 University of Akron MAC Award for Leggett CLC initiative
• Textbook adoption for World Languages Spanish I, II, III

Legal and Policy Committee Meeting

The Legal and Policy Committee meets to review and discuss several revised board policies prior to approval. Topics include Public Participation (Bylaw 0169.1), Attendance (Policy 5200), Late Arrival/Early Dismissal (Policy 5230), School Resource Officer (Policy 8403), Food Services (Policy 8500), and a Naming/Renaming Policy. Second readings are also held for School Safety (Policy 8400) and Emergency Situations at Schools (Policy 8420).

• Review of revised Bylaw 0169.1 - Public Participation at Board Meetings
• Review of revised Policy 8403 - School Resource Officer
• Second reading of revised Policy 8400 - School Safety
• Second reading of revised Policy 8420 - Emergency Situations at Schools
• Review of revised Policy 8500 - Food Services

Joint Board of Review

The Joint Board of Review will open with formalities including the appointment of a chair and vice chair for 2020 and discuss meeting locations. Under new business, members will consider a project contract with Hammond Construction for the Kenmore-Garfield Community Learning Center. The board will also approve previous meeting minutes and may recess into executive session.

• Nomination and appointment of Chairperson and Vice Chairperson for 2020
• Discussion regarding meeting location for 2020
• Approval of previous meeting minutes from November 18, 2019
• Hammond Construction project contract for Kenmore-Garfield CLC
• Potential executive session

REGULAR BOARD MEETING

The Akron Board of Education will hear a presentation on discipline data and promising practices for kindergarten through 3rd grades. They will also approve minutes from previous meetings and consider personnel actions including retirements, leaves, new hires, and salary adjustments for professional staff. No public comments are scheduled.

• Presentation on discipline data update for KG-3rd grades by Daniel Rambler
• Retirement of Mark Mills and resignation of Asia Mason effective June 5, 2020
• Appointment of Devon Kirimi as special education teacher at $43,467.24
• New teacher hires: Colton Brown (Art, $40,091.90) and Stephanie Martin (Nursing, $59,128.74)
• Degree and salary adjustments for 30 professional staff members

Finance Committee Meeting

The Akron Public Schools Finance Committee will discuss and review the FY19 final appropriation resolution, the 2020 appropriations report, the school finance timeline, and the Ohio Auditor's uniform accounting system manual. No votes or decisions are noted on the agenda; the meeting appears to be informational.

• Appropriations review for FY19 and 2020 budget reports
• Discussion of school finance timeline and fiscal calendar
• Forecast discussion (no details provided)
• Review of Ohio Auditor's Uniform School Accounting System user manual

Legal & Policy Committee Meeting

The Legal & Policy Committee will discuss proposed changes to public participation at board meetings (Policy 0169.1), review policies on school safety and naming, and conduct a review of the district's equity policy (2260.04). No final votes are scheduled; items are for discussion and possible recommendation to the full board.

• Discussion of Policy 0169.1 setting rules for public comment, including a 3-topic limit, 3 speakers per topic, 3 minutes per speaker, and registration requirements
• Review of Policy 8420 – Emergency Situations at Schools and Policy 8400 – School Safety
• Review of Naming Policy
• Review of Equity Policy 2260.04, adopted Jan 23, 2017
• Follow-up on January 2020 policy updates from NEOLA (6 legal alerts, 14 policies, 7 admin guidelines)

Finance Committee Meeting

The Finance Committee will review the quarterly investment performance and the monthly financial reports for November and December 2019. They will also discuss the district's financial forecast and the potential impact of EdChoice and HB 305, two state legislative proposals affecting school funding.

• Investment Review – review of 4th quarter 2019 investment performance
• Monthly Financial Report Review – reports for November and December 2019
• Forecast Discussion – review of the district's financial outlook
• EdChoice and HB 305 – discussion of state legislation impacting school funding

REGULAR BOARD MEETING

The Akron Board of Education will vote on routine personnel actions including teacher hires, resignations, leaves, and supplemental contracts for coaches and activity supervisors. The board will also recognize a student coding winner and a teacher-student project, and approve previous meeting minutes. No major policy or budget decisions are on the agenda.

• Approval of minutes from January 13 and January 21 meetings
• Resignations/retirements of teachers Cheryl Connolly (June 26) and Paula Thompson (June 5)
• New teacher hires: Kara Hunter ($39,267), Erica Jones ($39,267), Erin Maxwell ($59,137)
• Supplemental contracts for coaches at Buchtel, East, North, and other schools (amounts from $871 to $5,183)
• Change in salary for Buchtel drama coach Rochelle Brown-Hall from $3,534 to $1,655

The Board passed a resolution opposing the State of Ohio EdChoice Scholarship (Voucher) Program. Other actions included approving personnel recommendations, business contracts, and several revised board policies.

• Approved resolution opposing State of Ohio EdChoice Scholarship (Voucher) Program (7-0)
• Approved resolution of endorsement for Summit Metro Parks levy (7-0)
• Approved Personnel Recommendations for categories 5 through 16 (7-0)
• Approved 2019 High School Graduate certification (7-0)
• Approved Consent Agenda items including financial reports and grants (6-0, 1 abstain)
• Approved Business Affairs Recommendations including Apple Inc. and Corwin Press (7-0)
• Approved Revised Policies 2450, 5350, and 7440.03 (7-0)
• Approved Revised Policy 2260.01 regarding Section 504/ADA (7-0)

SPECIAL BOARD MEETING

The Akron Board of Education held a special meeting that immediately recessed into executive session to discuss a fact-finding report on contract language, salary, and fringe benefits with the Akron Education Association. No action was taken in open session.

• Recessed into executive session under Ohio Revised Code 121.22(G)(4) to review fact-finding report on teacher contract negotiations

The Board held a special meeting to enter an executive session. The session was used to review a fact-finding report regarding contract language, salary, and fringe benefit agreements with the Akron Education Association.

• Approved motion to recess into Executive Session (6-0)
• Approved motion to adjourn meeting (6-0)

Instructional Policy Committee Meeting

The Instructional Policy Committee will review minutes from December 3, 2019, and discuss several items including the superintendent's recommendation regarding a retirement, a consent agenda item for an Ohio School Safety Grant, and business affairs involving partnerships and professional development. The committee will also receive updates on the College & Career Academy of Akron, I PROMISE School progress, family resource center, equity plan, community arts, and Buchtel CLC design.

• Consideration of Cheryl Connolly's retirement as principal of Akron Early College (effective 6/20/20)
• Ohio School Safety Grant funding for school safety and security efforts
• Huntington National Bank partnership for Huntington Academy of Global Industry and Design at Buchtel CLC
• Corwin Press, Inc. professional development for David Hill CLC staff (April 27-29, 2020)
• Equity Plan update on Alternative Resident Educator Licensure program and 'Grow Our Own' strategies

SPECIAL BOARD MEETING

This is a special board meeting focused on board member training and orientation, covering legal responsibilities, policy, and district operations. The only action item is a motion to recess into executive session to discuss pending litigation and employee negotiations.

• Attorney Lewis Adkins will review board member legal responsibilities, Sunshine Law, public records, and ethics
• Board policy review process with attorney Lewis Adkins
• Discussion of superintendent and treasurer evaluation and goals process
• Motion to recess into executive session for litigation and negotiation discussions under Ohio Revised Code 121.22(G)(3) and (4)
• Overview of curriculum, instruction, state standards, assessments, and special programs

The Board held a special meeting focused on orientation and information overviews. No substantive policy or budgetary decisions were made during this session.

• Adjourned meeting (6-0)

ORGANIZATIONAL BOARD MEETING

The Akron Board of Education will hold its organizational meeting to elect officers for 2020, appoint Diana Autry to fill Ginger Baylor's unexpired term through December 2021, and set meeting dates for the year. The board will also recognize outgoing President Rev. Dr. Curtis T. Walker, Sr. for 20 years of service. This meeting is primarily ceremonial and procedural with no substantive policy or financial decisions.

• Appointment of Diana Autry to fill board vacancy (Resolution #20-001)
• Election of Board President and Vice President for 2020
• Recognition of outgoing President Rev. Dr. Curtis T. Walker, Sr. with resolution of appreciation (Resolution #20-002)
• Approval of proposed board meeting dates for 2020
• Administration of oath of office to newly-elected members N. J. Akbar, Derrick Hall, and Valerie McKitrick

The Board held its organizational meeting to elect leadership for 2020 and fill a vacant seat. Members approved personnel recommendations, business affairs contracts, and the 2020 meeting schedule. The Board also recognized outgoing President Rev. Dr. Curtis T. Walker, Sr.

• Appointed Bruce Alexander as President Pro Tempore (7-0)
• Appointed Diana Autry to fill the unexpired term of Ginger Baylor (7-0)
• Elected Patrick Bravo as Board President for 2020 (7-0)
• Elected N.J. Akbar as Board Vice President for 2020 (7-0)
• Approved 2020 board meeting dates with one change to the April meeting (7-0)
• Approved meeting minutes from December 9 and December 23, 2019 (7-0)
• Approved personnel recommendations for categories 5 through 16 (7-0)
• Approved consent agenda resolutions and business affairs recommendations (7-0)