Columbus City Schools public meetings in 2024

REGULAR BOARD BUSINESS MEETING

The board voted to close Broadleigh Elementary, Buckeye Middle, McGuffey Facility (CAHS building), Moler Elementary, and West Broad Elementary (with an amendment to explore through the FMP process). Motions to close Eastmoor, Fairwood, Lindbergh, and North Linden failed. The board also approved closing the administrative building at 270 E. State Street. Public comment focused on school closings and realignment, and committee updates were presented.

• Closed Broadleigh ES, Buckeye MS, McGuffey (CAHS), Moler ES, West Broad ES
• Failed to close Eastmoor, Fairwood, Lindbergh, North Linden ES
• Closed administrative building at 270 E. State Street
• Public speakers opposed closing North Linden ES and urged saving it
• Committee updates from Equitable & Transparent Resources, Community Engagement, Policy & Governance, Academic & Facility Alignment

EQUITABLE & TRANSPARENT RESOURCE MANAGEMENT COMMITTEE

The Equitable & Transparent Resource Management Committee will consider and vote on task force recommendations following a tour of 270 E. State Street. The committee will also receive an introduction to a holistic spending view and asset report. Other agenda items include approval of the meeting agenda and prior minutes, as well as procedures for public comment.

• Vote on task force recommendations regarding 270 E. State Street
• Introduction of holistic spending view and asset report
• Approval of November 13, 2024, committee minutes
• Procedures for public participants

COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT & ADVOCACY COMMITTEE

The Community Engagement & Advocacy Committee will consider items including a partnership with the City of Columbus Building and Zoning Services regarding Fort Hayes, receive a lame duck advocacy update, and hold a work session on guiding principles for community engagement. The agenda is primarily discussion and procedural, with no concrete decisions or financial details specified.

• Discussion of a partnership between Columbus City Schools and the City of Columbus Department of Building and Zoning Services regarding Fort Hayes
• Advocacy update on lame-duck legislative session
• Work session to develop guiding principles for community engagement
• Approval of minutes from November 12, 2024 meeting

POLICY AND GOVERNANCE COMMITTEE MEETING

The Columbus City Schools Policy and Governance Committee will consider a proposed policy (po7105) on closing school buildings and receive an update from the Closing of School Buildings Task Force. They will also review similar policies from other districts. Other items include approving minutes from September 9, 2024, and updates on committee work for 2025.

• Discussion of CCS policy po7105 on closing school buildings
• Update from Closing of School Buildings Task Force
• Review of school closure policies from Prince George's County, Detroit, and Denver
• Approval of minutes from September 9, 2024
• Governance subcommittee update and 2025 work plan

REGULAR BOARD BUSINESS MEETING

The Board of Education approved several items including a resolution to celebrate the Brookhaven Bearcats football championship. The board also authorized two major equipment purchases through the consent agenda. These include storage doors for food service and a new landscaping tractor.

• Resolution to celebrate the 20th Anniversary of the Brookhaven Bearcats Football Championship
• Purchase of freezer and overhead storage doors from DH Pace Company Inc. for $91,040.00
• Purchase of a landscaping tractor from Steinke Tractor Sales Inc for $142,424.83

ACADEMIC & FACILITY ALIGNMENT COMMITTEE

The Academic & Facility Alignment Committee will meet to approve minutes from November 4 and receive a presentation on Special Education (SPED). The meeting is largely procedural with a single informational item.

• Approval of November 4, 2024 committee meeting minutes
• SPED presentation on program background, return on investment, and real data

SPECIAL BOARD MEETING

The Columbus Board of Education held a special meeting, appointed Jennifer Adair as treasurer pro tempore due to the treasurer's absence, and discussed continued realignment activities for schools.

• Appointment of Jennifer Adair as treasurer pro tempore for the meeting
• Discussion of continued realignment activities for schools

REGULAR BOARD BUSINESS MEETING

The Columbus City Schools Board of Education approved several actions at its regular meeting, including a resolution to demolish school buildings as recommended by the Equitable & Transparent Resource Management Committee, a resolution declaring transportation impractical for certain students for FY25, and a goal to strengthen mathematics proficiency. The board also recognized the 50th anniversary of Spruce Run Nature Center and approved the re-employment of a retired instructional assistant.

• Approved demolition of school buildings as recommended by Equitable & Transparent Resource Management Committee (item 5.4)
• Declared transportation impractical for certain students for FY25, citing Ohio Revised Code (item 15.1)
• Approved Board Monitoring Goal 2: Strengthen Mathematics Proficiency (item 5.2)
• Recognized 50th anniversary of Spruce Run Nature Center (item 5.1)
• Held public hearing to consider re-employment of retired instructional assistant Rhonda L. Greer (item 9.1)

SPECIAL BOARD MEETING

The Columbus Board of Education held a special meeting to hear a presentation from Dr. Terrance Green on 'The Power of Listening: Unlocking Connection Through Intentional Listening.' The board also participated in debriefing and community engagement activities. No votes were taken on policies or expenditures.

• Presentation by Dr. Terrance Green on intentional listening
• Debriefing activity for board members
• Community engagement activity
• Adoption of the meeting agenda
• Meeting adjourned at 9:09 p.m.

EQUITABLE & TRANSPARENT RESOURCE MANAGEMENT COMMITTEE

The Equitable & Transparent Resource Management Committee will meet to discuss several resource allocation items. They will review the wrap-up of federal ESSER funds and an update on levy promises made to voters. Other topics include transportation costs, a new cash balance policy, and establishment of a resource planning team. The committee will also consider task force recommendations regarding the 270 E. State Street building.

• ESSER Wrap Up & Levy Promise Update (Action/Discussion)
• Understanding Cost of Transportation (Discussion)
• Review of New Cash Balance Policy (Discussion)
• Establishment of Resource Planning Team (Discussion)
• Task Force Recommendation: Tour of 270 E. State Street

COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT & ADVOCACY COMMITTEE

The Community Engagement & Advocacy Committee will meet to approve minutes from October 8 and hear three informational presentations: from Communities in Schools, on the advocacy calendar, and on an engagement survey. No votes on contracts or policy changes are scheduled. The meeting is largely procedural and informational.

• Approval of minutes from October 8, 2024 meeting
• Presentation from Communities in Schools on program background and data
• Overview of the 2024-2025 advocacy calendar
• Presentation on an engagement survey (report attached: Listen Up-7.pdf)

REGULAR BOARD BUSINESS MEETING

The Board of Education approved its legislative platform for the 136th General Assembly and reviewed a five-year financial forecast. Public comments focused on staffing needs and educational equity at Independence High School.

• Approval of the Legislative Platform for the 136th General Assembly
• Authorization of up to $80,000 for Kliklok trays from Net Pac International
• Presentation of the Five-Year Forecast by Treasurer Ryan Cook
• Approval of the amended 2024-2025 Professional Development Calendar
• Public hearing on the re-employment of retired employees

ACADEMIC & FACILITY ALIGNMENT COMMITTEE

The Academic & Facility Alignment Committee will consider approving its September 16, 2024 minutes. They will then receive information updates on the school lottery and transportation. A draft program assessment is also on the agenda for discussion. No votes or decisions are scheduled beyond the minutes approval.

• Approval of September 16, 2024 committee minutes
• School Lottery Update (information item)
• Transportation Update (information item)
• Program Assessment Draft (discussion item)

REGULAR BOARD BUSINESS MEETING

The Columbus Board of Education discussed and approved a monitoring report on Goal 1: Strengthen Reading Proficiency, adopted a resolution honoring Archie Griffin and declaring October 18th as Archie Griffin Day, and passed a resolution declaring transportation impractical for certain students. The meeting also included public comments, committee updates, and a consent agenda with routine items.

• Approved Board Monitoring: Goal 1 - Strengthen Reading Proficiency (motion carried 4-1, with Simmons voting no)
• Adopted resolution honoring Archie Griffin on 50th anniversary of his 1974 Heisman Trophy win; October 18, 2024 declared Archie Griffin Day
• Passed resolution declaring transportation impractical for certain students under Ohio Revised Code 3327 (consent agenda item 14.1)
• Public hearing set for November 19, 2024 on re-employment of retired instructional assistant Rhonda L. Greer
• Heard public comments on special needs student rights, teacher shortages, and safety concerns

EQUITABLE & TRANSPARENT RESOURCE MANAGEMENT COMMITTEE

The committee will discuss the Integrated Planning review of demolitions for the 2024-2025 school year and receive a process update on task force recommendations for 270 E. State Street and adjacent parcels. Items also include approving the agenda and minutes from the September 11, 2024 meeting, and discussing tentative monthly discussion topics.

• Review of demolitions for 2024-2025 school year
• Process update on 270 E. State Street and adjacent parcels
• Approve minutes from September 11, 2024 meeting
• Discussion of tentative monthly discussion topics

COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT & ADVOCACY COMMITTEE

The Community Engagement & Advocacy Committee is meeting to approve previous minutes and review the legislative platform for the 136th General Assembly. The committee will also hold a conversation regarding Harvard scholastic engagement.

• Approval of meeting minutes from 8.13.24 and 9.10.24
• Review of the Legislative Platform for the 136th General Assembly
• Discussion on Harvard Scholastic Engagement Conversation

REGULAR BOARD BUSINESS MEETING

The Columbus Board of Education met on October 1, 2024, and voted on several items. The board approved a consent agenda including contracts for first-aid cabinet supplies ($30,000 from Cintas) and phone/door upgrades ($330,000 from Convergint). It also adopted a resolution celebrating the partnership with Franklin County Metro Parks, and approved a monitoring report on closing the opportunity gap (5-1 vote). Public comment focused on special education staffing and transportation issues.

• Approved $330,000 contract with Convergint Technologies for AiPhone and door additions (consent agenda item 13.2)
• Approved $30,000 contract with Cintas Corporation for medicine cabinet supplies for Transportation locations (consent agenda item 13.1)
• Adopted Resolution 24-27-937 celebrating partnership between CCS and Franklin County Metro Parks (unanimous)
• Approved Board Monitoring Report – Goal 3: Closing Opportunities Gap (5-1, with Brandon Simmons voting nay)
• Heard public comments on special education staffing, transportation, and charter school issues

REGULAR BOARD BUSINESS MEETING

The Columbus Board of Education approved a consent agenda including a resolution declaring transportation impractical for certain students and offering payment-in-lieu, and authorized a $111,780 contract with Empower Behavioral Health and Intervention for special education services. The meeting also featured public comments on special education and a district report card presentation.

• Resolution declaring impracticality for transportation for certain students (24-26-924)
• Purchase of service agreement with Empower Behavioral Health and Intervention for $111,780 (24-26-925)
• Public comments on special education concerns including caseload, classroom size, and staff misuse
• District Report Card update presented by Superintendent Dr. Angela Chapman
• Committee updates from Academic & Facility Alignment, Community Engagement, Equitable Resources, and Policy & Governance

SPECIAL BOARD MEETING

This special meeting of the Columbus City Schools Board of Education included a vote to approve a resolution and censure related to charges or complaints against a public official (item 24-25-923). The motion passed 6-1, with Brandon Simmons voting nay. Other items were procedural: convening, adopting the agenda, and adjourning.

• Approved Resolution and Censure (24-25-923) by a 6-1 vote
• Brandon Simmons cast the sole nay vote
• Meeting convened at 8:00 p.m. and adjourned at 8:21 p.m.

ACADEMIC & FACILITY ALIGNMENT COMMITTEE

The Academic & Facility Alignment Committee will discuss committee operations, including a presentation from the Internal Auditor and a review of a Program Assessment Draft. No votes or binding decisions are on the agenda; the meeting is primarily informational and procedural. Approval of the previous meeting's minutes is also scheduled.

• Approval of August 5, 2024 committee minutes
• Internal Auditor presentation on background and return on investment
• Review of Program Assessment Draft

EQUITABLE & TRANSPARENT RESOURCE MANAGEMENT COMMITTEE

The Equitable & Transparent Resource Management Committee will take up an assignment to review administrative properties, specifically 270 E. State Street, per a Facilities Task Force recommendation. It will also discuss integrated real estate and capital planning, Medicaid reimbursement audits, and a monthly financial report. The only action item is approval of the previous meeting's minutes.

• Acceptance of committee assignment to review administrative properties, specifically 270 E. State Street
• Discussion on integrated real estate, capital, and development planning
• Discussion on internal audit and transparency regarding Medicaid reimbursement
• Review of monthly financial report for compliance
• Approval of minutes from August 14, 2024 meeting

COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT & ADVOCACY COMMITTEE

The Community Engagement & Advocacy Committee will discuss and consider action on the Superintendent's Community Taskforce Final Recommendations, as well as approve minutes from the August 13 meeting. A legislative platform overview is also on the agenda.

• Discussion and possible action on Superintendent's Community Taskforce Review with attached final recommendations
• Approval of minutes from August 13, 2024 Community Engagement & Advocacy Committee meeting
• Overview of legislative platform (no action indicated)

POLICY AND GOVERNANCE COMMITTEE MEETING

The Policy and Governance Committee will consider approving minutes from June 27, 2024. They will discuss a policy on closing school buildings (po7105) and a revised policy on school visitors (po9150). Updates will be provided on the Title IX and nondiscrimination policy package and on the fiscal policy package.

• Discussion of po7105 Closing of School Buildings
• Revised po9150 School Visitors policy
• Update on Title IX and Nondiscrimination Policy Package
• Update on Fiscal Policy Package
• Approval of minutes from June 27, 2024

REGULAR BOARD BUSINESS MEETING

The Columbus Board of Education held a regular business meeting on September 3, 2024. The board voted on a consent agenda including a $208,000 service agreement with Education Resource Strategies to redesign school budgeting and planning. Public hearings were held for the re-employment of three retired employees: a librarian, a literacy aide, and a school counselor. Public comment included concerns about a milk cooler contract with an out-of-state vendor and requests to reinstate bus service for charter and private school students.

• $208,000 service agreement with Education Resource Strategies for school budgeting redesign
• Public hearings on re-employment of retired employees Paula W. Hughes, Andrea R. Pannell, and Deborah J. Zwahlen
• NAACP president questioned milk cooler purchase from out-of-state Douglas Food Stores, Inc.
• Speaker raised transportation issues for charter and private school students
• Five legislation items tied to levy promise: purchase agreements with IIRP, McGraw Hill, NCTM, and PSI II, LLC

REGULAR BOARD BUSINESS MEETING

The Columbus Board of Education approved a resolution declaring impracticality of transportation for some students, despite public opposition. They approved most of the consent agenda but failed to approve several sole-source contracts because they did not receive the required two-thirds supermajority vote, including contracts with The Buckeye Ranch Inc., Haugland LaMarche and Ramage LLC, and others. Public comment addressed transportation issues and calls for more diverse teachers and curriculum.

• Approved Resolution Declaring Impracticality of Transportation (item 13.5)
• Failed to approve 10 sole-source contracts due to lack of supermajority (items 15.1–15.10, 17.1, 20.1)
• Board heard public comments on transportation and teacher diversity
• Committee updates presented including Community Engagement, Academic & Facility Alignment, and Policy & Governance
• Approved consent agenda with items 9.1–23.7 except those requiring supermajority

SPECIAL BOARD MEETING

The Columbus City Schools Board of Education held a special meeting on August 26, 2024, primarily to recess into executive session. The board voted unanimously to enter executive session under Ohio law to consider appointment, employment, dismissal, promotion, demotion, or compensation of a public employee or official. After the closed session, the board adjourned without any other substantive action.

• Motion for Executive Session (24-22-847) under Ohio Revised Code 121.22(G)(1) for personnel matters

EQUITABLE & TRANSPARENT RESOURCE MANAGEMENT COMMITTEE

The Equitable & Transparent Resource Management Committee will hold a procedural meeting including approval of May 8, 2024 minutes, a review of the committee's purpose, member introductions, a summary of the last meeting, and a discussion of proposed topics for future meetings. The only substantive item is a presentation on School Finance 101. No contracts or financial decisions are on the agenda.

• Approve minutes from May 8, 2024 meeting
• Review of committee purpose and introduction of members
• Discussion of proposed topics for future meetings
• Presentation on School Finance 101

COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT & ADVOCACY COMMITTEE

The Community Engagement & Advocacy Committee will meet to discuss and potentially take action on reviewing the committee calendar, a government affairs overview, and an office of engagement overview. The meeting also includes approval of minutes from a previous meeting.

• Approval of minutes from May 14, 2024
• Review of committee calendar
• Presentation on government affairs and legislative platform
• Overview of the Office of Engagement strategy plan

REGULAR BOARD BUSINESS MEETING

The board approved a collective bargaining agreement with OAPSE Local 581 for safety and security staff through June 30, 2026. It also adopted a series of policy updates on nondiscrimination, anti-harassment, and transgender student rights. Additionally, the board nominated two individuals for OSBA awards and scheduled a public hearing on re-employing a retired librarian.

• Approval of collective bargaining agreement with OAPSE Local 581 (safety and security) through June 30, 2026
• Adoption of 15 policies including nondiscrimination, anti-harassment, bullying, and transgender students
• Nomination of Adam Warren (South High School head custodian) for OSBA Exemplary School Employee Award
• Nomination of Patrick Losinski for OSBA Friend of Public Education Award
• Public hearing scheduled for Sept 3, 2024 on re-employment of retired librarian Paula W. Hughes

ACADEMIC & FACILITY ALIGNMENT COMMITTEE

The committee will hold a procedural meeting to approve minutes from June 3, 2024, and receive overviews on academics and facilities. No specific decisions or proposals are listed for action.

• Approval of minutes from June 3, 2024 meeting
• Academic overview presentation and discussion
• Facilities overview discussion
• Call to order and roll call
• Adjournment

SPECIAL BOARD MEETING

The Columbus City Schools Board of Education held a special meeting and voted unanimously to employ Ryan Cook as Treasurer for a three-year term, effective August 1, 2024 through July 31, 2027. The board also adopted the agenda and adjourned after the vote.

• Approved Resolution 24-20-799 employing Ryan Cook as Treasurer from Aug 1, 2024 to Jul 31, 2027

POLICY & GOVERNANCE COMMITTEE

The Policy & Governance Committee will review a comprehensive package of non-discrimination and anti-harassment policies. The body will also review its own charter and discuss governance work and future policy reviews.

• Review of Non-Discrimination/Anti-Harassment Policy Package, including a new policy on nondiscrimination on the basis of sex in education programs (po2266)
• Review of the Policy & Governance Committee’s Charter passed on June 18, 2024
• Discussion regarding potential subcommittee for governance work
• Discussion regarding policy review for the September 9th meeting

REGULAR BOARD BUSINESS MEETING

The Columbus Board of Education approved the Facilities Task Force Final Recommendations, including school closures, and passed the FY 2025 Initial Appropriations Resolution of $1,613,042,454.10. The board also approved consent agenda items for FY 2024 final amended appropriations and FY 2025 initial appropriations, with Fund Transfers (WCBE) approved separately after a motion to remove.

• Resolution 24-19-794 adopting Facilities Task Force Final Recommendations passed 7-0
• FY 2025 Initial Appropriations Resolution (24-19-795) approved for $1,613,042,454.10
• FY 2024 Final Amended Appropriations Resolution approved as part of consent agenda
• Fund Transfers (WCBE) approved 6-1 after being removed from consent agenda
• Public comment included multiple speakers urging pause on school closures

REGULAR BOARD BUSINESS MEETING

The board heard public comments from several residents asking for a pause on school facilities task force recommendations and potential school closings. The board approved board committee appointments and charters, nominated Dr. Tina Pierce for an OSBA award, and set a public hearing for August 6 on re-employing a retired teacher. Under the consent agenda, the board approved renewing the district's membership in the Ohio Coalition for Equity and Adequacy of School Funding ($90,794) and entering into a $143,640 agreement with ReThink Autism Inc. for a special education platform.

• Several residents spoke against school closings and task force recommendations.
• Board approved committee appointments and charters.
• Resolution nominating Dr. Tina Pierce for OSBA Board Member Award.
• Public hearing set for Aug 6 on re-employment of retired teacher Tanya Wiewall Duncan.
• Consent agenda includes $90,794 for Ohio Coalition for Equity and Adequacy of School Funding membership.

EQUITABLE & TRANSPARENT RESOURCE MANAGEMENT COMMITTEE

The committee will review the minutes from the May 8, 2024 meeting. Discussion topics include an overview of district real estate and the Ohio school funding system.

• Approval of May 8, 2024 minutes
• Discussion on District Real Estate 101
• Discussion on Ohio’s School Funding System 101

REGULAR BOARD BUSINESS MEETING

The Columbus Board of Education convened for a regular business meeting, adopted the agenda, and recessed into executive session to discuss attorney consultations and potential complaints. The board also approved a resolution to waive attorney-client privilege regarding a legal memorandum.

• Recess into executive session to discuss legal matters
• Resolution to waive attorney-client privilege
• OASBO Awards: $500 and $1,000 scholarships
• Public comments on Facilities Task Force recommendations
• Amendment to the meeting agenda

ACADEMIC & FACILITY ALIGNMENT COMMITTEE

The committee is meeting to handle procedural operations and review its governing charter. The session includes a review of minutes from the May 6, 2024, meeting.

• Review of May 6, 2024 meeting minutes
• Discussion and action on the Committee Charter

SPECIAL BOARD MEETING

The Columbus Board of Education appointed Jennifer Adair as treasurer pro tempore to fill in for the absent treasurer. The board also censured Board Member Brandon Simmons for the remainder of 2024 and removed him from two committees. Additionally, the board authorized legal action to compel records from Simmons.

• Appointed Jennifer Adair as treasurer pro tempore
• Censured Board Member Brandon Simmons for 2024
• Removed Brandon Simmons from Community Engagement & Advocacy Committee
• Removed Brandon Simmons from Equitable & Transparent Resource Management Committee
• Authorized legal action to compel public records from Brandon Simmons

SPECIAL BOARD MEETING

The Columbus City Schools Board of Education held a special meeting consisting mainly of procedural actions: appointing a member as treasurer pro-tempore due to the treasurer's absence, adopting the agenda, and entering executive session to discuss public employee appointments, employment, or compensation. The meeting was largely administrative with no substantive policy decisions or public hearings.

• Resolution to appoint Sarah Ingles as treasurer pro-tempore for the meeting only (24-15-569)
• Motion to recess into executive session under O.R.C. 121.22(G)(1) to consider personnel matters (24-15-570)
• Members present: Michael Cole, Sarah Ingles, Ramona Reyes, Christina Vera; absent: Dr. Tina Pierce; late: Jennifer Adair, Brandon Simmons

REGULAR BOARD BUSINESS MEETING

The Columbus Board of Education approved a consent agenda that included a $1.725 million contract with Healthcare Billing Services for Medicaid billing support over three fiscal years. They also held public hearings on re-employing three retired employees and recessed into executive session to discuss personnel matters.

• Authorized $1.725M contract with Healthcare Billing Services for Medicaid billing (FY25–FY27)
• Held public hearings on re-employment of retired employees Regina DeLoach, Deryll Rohda, and Rudolph Sutton
• Recessed into executive session under Ohio Revised Code Section 121.22(G)(1) for personnel matters
• Approved minutes from the May 2 and May 7, 2024 meetings

COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT & ADVOCACY COMMITTEE

The agenda is largely procedural, covering roll call, quorum, and committee operations. The committee will vote to confirm its meeting calendar and committee charter, and discuss its work plan for the year.

• Confirm committee meeting calendar for 2024
• Confirm community engagement and advocacy committee charter
• Discuss committee work plan

POLICY & GOVERNANCE COMMITTEE

The Policy & Governance Committee will meet to confirm the committee calendar for the 2024-25 school year, approve a draft committee charter, and discuss the upcoming work plan. The agenda is largely procedural.

• Confirm committee calendar for 2024-25
• Approve draft committee charter
• Discuss committee work plan and policies for June 2024

EQUITABLE & TRANSPARENT RESOURCE MANAGEMENT COMMITTEE

The Equitable & Transparent Resource Management Committee of Columbus City Schools Board of Education is meeting to handle procedural matters: confirming the committee calendar, approving its charter, and discussing the work plan for the year. No major financial decisions or policy changes are on the agenda.

• Confirm Committee Calendar — action and discussion item with attached calendar PDF
• Confirm Committee Charter — action and discussion item with attached charter document
• Discuss Committee Work Plan — discussion item with attached work plan PDF

REGULAR BOARD BUSINESS MEETING

The Columbus Board of Education heard public comments urging a pause on school closures recommended by the Facilities Task Force. The board approved several recognition resolutions and a survey to begin the search for a new treasurer. An update on the Facilities Task Force was presented by the Superintendent.

• Appointed Michael Cole as treasurer pro tempore for the meeting
• Approved survey for treasurer search with Educational Service Center of Central Ohio
• Adopted recognitions for Teacher Appreciation Week, School Lunch Hero Day, School Bus Driver Appreciation Day, and School Nurse Day
• Heard public comments from six residents opposing Facilities Task Force school closures
• Received Superintendent's update on Community Facilities Task Force

ACADEMIC & FACILITY ALIGNMENT COMMITTEE

This is the first meeting of the Academic & Facility Alignment Committee, focusing on procedural matters: confirming the meeting calendar and committee charter, and discussing the work plan. No votes on specific policies, projects, or expenditures are scheduled.

• Confirm committee meeting calendar for the year
• Confirm committee charter defining scope and rules
• Discuss committee work plan for future meetings

SPECIAL BOARD MEETING

The Board held a special meeting to discuss Board Committee Orientation. No action was taken on the appointment of a Treasurer Pro Tempore or the adoption of the agenda due to a lack of quorum.

• Discussion regarding Board Committee Orientation

NEIGHBORHOOD SCHOOL DEVELOPMENT PARTNERSHIP (NSDP)

The Neighborhood School Development Partnership meeting includes several action items regarding facility upgrades. These include door and window installations, athletics and music equipment, classroom technology, and various furnishings for multiple schools.

• Award of contract for door and window upgrades at multiple sites with Miles-McClellan Construction Co., Inc.
• Purchase of athletics and music equipment for the Mifflin High School Renovation Project from Wenger Corporation
• Purchase of classroom instructional technology and installation services for Scottwood Elementary and Mifflin High School from CDW-G
• Purchase of furnishings for Scottwood ES, Westmoor MS, Ridgeview MS, Mifflin HS, and other academic facilities from Williams Interior Design, Inc.

AUDIT & ACCOUNTABILITY COMMITTEE MEETING - CANCELLED

This meeting of the Columbus City Schools Audit & Accountability Committee was cancelled. No decisions or discussions took place.

REGULAR BOARD BUSINESS MEETING

The Columbus Board of Education approved resolutions to employ L. Kevin O'Connor as Internal Auditor through July 2027 and to use the Educational Service Center of Central Ohio to conduct a search for a new Treasurer. The board also voted to abolish its committee structure and approved several proclamations recognizing staff and awareness months. One public comment urged prioritizing academic outcomes in facility closure decisions.

• Resolution employing L. Kevin O'Connor as Internal Auditor from May 1, 2024 to July 31, 2027
• Board action to utilize ESC of Central Ohio to perform the search process for Treasurer/CFO
• Motion to abolish the board's committee structure under Board Policy No. 0155
• Public comment from Vladimir Kogan requesting that facility closure decisions prioritize academic outcomes
• Approvals of recognitions: Robbie Banks as OAESA Secretary of the Year, School Principals Day, and Mental Health Awareness Month

REGULAR BOARD BUSINESS MEETING

The board approved four recognition resolutions: congratulating the Columbus Africentric Lady Nubians girls basketball team on winning the Ohio Division III state championship, recognizing April as Autism Acceptance Month, honoring nurse Virginia Shaffer as School Nurse of the Year, and celebrating paraprofessionals. Two public comments addressed a child safety transfer request and concerns about the district's use of the Cooperative Purchasing Agreement. No fiscal or policy actions were taken.

• Resolution 24-10-406: Recognizing and congratulating the Columbus Africentric Lady Nubians girls basketball team for winning the Ohio Division III state championship
• Resolution 24-10-407: Recognizing April as National Autism Acceptance Month
• Resolution 24-10-408: Honoring Virginia Shaffer as the 2024 School Nurse of the Year
• Resolution 24-10-409: Recognizing and celebrating paraprofessionals in Columbus City Schools
• Public comment: Amber Ross requested an adjustment transfer for her child's safety; Nana Watson (NAACP) urged the district to stop using the Cooperative Purchasing Agreement

SPECIAL BOARD MEETING

The Board of Education held a special meeting to discuss parliamentary procedure and board committee applications. No formal votes were taken on these items.

• Discussion of Robert's Rules of Order led by Attorney John Barnes
• Discussion of Board Committee Applications

NEIGHBORHOOD SCHOOL DEVELOPMENT PARTNERSHIP (NSDP)

The Neighborhood School Development Partnership will consider awarding five general contracts for security vestibule upgrades, playground improvements, school refreshes, and stadium upgrades at multiple Columbus schools. The agenda also includes approval of prior meeting minutes. No dollar amounts are listed in the agenda.

• Award of contract for security vestibule upgrades at multiple sites to T-Built Construction Services, Inc. (Project No.24018)
• Award of contract for playground and site improvements at multiple sites to Penchura, LLC (Project No.24010)
• Award of contract for Arts Impact Middle School (AIMS) Refresh to Lusk Mechanical Contractors, Inc. (Project No.24025)
• Award of contract for Linden McKinley STEM High School Stadium Upgrades to Prodigy Building Solutions, LLC (Project No.24027)
• Award of contract for Beechcroft High School Home Stadium Upgrades to Dant Clayton Corporation (Project No.24028)

AUDIT & ACCOUNTABILITY COMMITTEE MEETING

The Audit & Accountability Committee of Columbus City Schools will meet to discuss internal audit reports, follow-up updates, the Office of Internal Audit Charter, staffing, workspace, and a dashboard. The agenda also includes an executive session and approval of previous meeting minutes. No specific dollar amounts or major policy changes are on the agenda.

• Presentation of audits from the Office of Internal Audit
• Follow-up update on previous audit recommendations
• Review of the Office of Internal Audit Charter
• Discussion of Office of Internal Audit staffing
• Update on OIA workspace and dashboard

REGULAR BOARD BUSINESS MEETING

The Columbus Board of Education held a regular business meeting on March 19, 2024. They approved a purchase agreement with The Ohio State University for up to $66,122 for a career tech conference. The board also heard public comments regarding school staffing and substitute teacher positions, and passed resolutions recognizing Women's History Month and revising the professional development schedule.

• Public comment speakers requested the board make zero cuts to building substitute teachers for next year
• Board approved resolution recognizing March as Women's History Month (24-9-372)
• Approved revision of the 2023-2024 SY professional development conference schedule (24-9-373)
• Authorized purchase agreement with Ohio State University for $66,122 for Career Tech Forward Conference (24-9-374)
• Heard superintendent updates on Region 4 and the Building Substitute Teachers Program

REGULAR BOARD BUSINESS MEETING

The Columbus Board of Education voted unanimously to establish four new standing committees (Policy & Governance, Academic & Facility Alignment, Equitable & Transparent Resource Management, and Community Engagement & Advocacy) and abolish previous committee structures effective May 1, 2024. The board also appointed members to each committee and approved a resolution to align board legislation with board policy on appropriations. Additionally, they recognized International Social Emotional Learning Week (March 4-8) and National School Social Work Week (March 3-9).

• Approved Resolution 24-8-351 establishing four new standing committees and abolishing prior structures
• Appointed board members to the Policy & Governance, Academic & Facility Alignment, Equitable & Transparent Resource Management, and Community Engagement & Advocacy Committees
• Approved Resolution 24-8-352 to align board legislation with Policy 6321 on fund appropriations
• Recognized March 4-8, 2024 as International Social Emotional Learning Week (Resolution 24-8-353)
• Recognized March 3-9, 2024 as National School Social Work Week (Resolution 24-8-354)

AUDIT & ACCOUNTABILITY COMMITTEE MEETING - CANCELLED

The Audit & Accountability Committee meeting scheduled for February 22, 2024, was cancelled. The agenda consisted of procedural boilerplate and placeholders for reports.

NEIGHBORHOOD SCHOOL DEVELOPMENT PARTNERSHIP (NSDP)

The Neighborhood School Development Partnership will consider awarding three construction contracts, including Phase 2 of the Mifflin High School renovations. The agenda also includes approval of previous meeting minutes and a community inclusion report with no items.

• Award of general contract for Mifflin High School Renovations, Project #24012 - Phase No.2 to Prodigy Building Solutions, LLC
• Award of general contract for Fire Alarm Replacements at Multiple Sites, Project #23010 to Brewer-Garrett Company
• Award of general contract for Loose Furnishings at Multiple Sites, Project No.24021 with Friends Service Company, Inc.

REGULAR BOARD BUSINESS MEETING

The Columbus City Schools Board of Education voted to join the Fair School Funding Plan, Inc. and authorize payment of membership dues not to exceed $13,500 for 2024. The board also approved a consent agenda that included a $32,500 increase to a SchooLinks contract for graduation tracking and personalized learning plan customization, bringing the total to $196,363.45. Public comment addressed agriculture education, minority teacher recruitment, and Black history curriculum.

• Approved Resolution to join Fair School Funding Plan, Inc. and authorize dues up to $13,500 (24-7-68)
• Authorized increase of $32,500 to SchooLinks, Inc. contract for Ohio-specific graduation tracking and personalized learning plans (total $196,363.45) (24-7-69)
• Public comment requested expansion of agriculture education programs at Linden-McKinley STEM Academy and Fort Hayes Arts & Academic High School
• Residents called for more minority teacher recruitment and retention, and implementation of Black history curriculum
• Board approved consent agenda containing items 9.1 through 24.4 unanimously

SPECIAL BOARD MEETING

The Columbus Board of Education held a special meeting to discuss a proposed board committee structure. The meeting included procedural items such as appointing a treasurer pro tempore and adopting the agenda. No votes were taken on the committee structure, which was discussed only.

• Discussion of proposed board committee structure

REGULAR BOARD BUSINESS MEETING

The Columbus Board of Education approved a resolution recommending 22 members to the Superintendent/CEO Community Facilities Task Force, which will study district building usage and potential closures. The board also adopted resolutions recognizing Black History Month, Career and Technical Education Month, National School Counseling Week, and the 8th Annual Relationship Week. Public comment included a question about a contract with Brewer-Garrett Company for cooler/freezer replacements.

• Resolution to recognize February as Black History Month and honor educators Jeanette Johnson and Stephen Ingram
• Resolution to recognize February 5-9 as National School Counseling Week
• Resolution to recognize February 5-9 as 8th Annual Relationship Week
• Public comment questioning use of cooperative purchasing agreement with Brewer-Garrett Company for walk-in cooler/freezer replacements at multiple sites
• Resolution recommending 22 members to the Community Facilities Task Force

SPECIAL BOARD MEETING

The Board of Education met for a special session focused on professional development. The board held a discussion with Toni Bell of Phoenix Consulting Company regarding "Stitching Unity: Crafting the Quilt of Collaboration."

• Appointment of Jennifer Adair as treasurer pro tempore for the duration of the meeting

AUDIT & ACCOUNTABILITY COMMITTEE MEETING

The Audit & Accountability Committee will meet to approve minutes, discuss a committee realignment and its charter, and receive updates from the Office of Internal Audit on follow-ups, upcoming audits, staffing, and budgeting. No votes on contracts or ordinances are scheduled.

• Discussion on committee realignment and committee charter
• Review of audit follow-ups and audits to be presented
• Office of Internal Audit charter discussion
• Update on Office of Internal Audit staffing and budgeting

NEIGHBORHOOD SCHOOL DEVELOPMENT PARTNERSHIP (NSDP)

The Neighborhood School Development Partnership is meeting to review and approve a design-build contract for HVAC renovations. The body is also reviewing minutes from several previous meetings dating back to February 2023.

• Award of Design-Build Contract No. 207537 to Miles-McClellan Construction Co., Inc. for HVAC Renovations at Multiple Sites (Project No. 24011)

REGULAR BOARD BUSINESS MEETING

The Columbus Board of Education adopted the agenda, approved a resolution for School Board Recognition Month, and appointed board members to various liaisons and committees. They heard presentations on Region 5 update, early literacy progress monitoring, facilities task force, and Allovue software. The board then approved a consent agenda containing numerous items including contracts and public hearings on re-employment of three retired employees.

• Resolution to honor School Board Recognition Month (24-3-19)
• Appointed delegates to OSBA conference and other liaisons (24-3-20)
• Authorized agreement with International Institute for Restorative Practices for $264,000 (24-3-24)
• Public hearings scheduled for re-employment of retired employees Kevin Saionzkowski, Trenisha Bell, and Linda Kennedy
• Approved early literacy progress monitoring report

SPECIAL BOARD MEETING

The Columbus Board of Education held a special meeting to discuss proposed board committee structures, facilitated by Dawn Tyler Lee of Forrest Street Consulting. The meeting included a call to order, roll call, adoption of the agenda, and adjournment, all of which were procedural. No votes were taken on the committee structures.

• Discussion on proposed board committee structures with consultant Dawn Tyler Lee from Forrest Street Consulting

REGULAR BOARD BUSINESS MEETING

The Columbus Board of Education held a regular business meeting with public comments on online academy and transportation issues. The board approved a consent agenda including a $112,500 contract with Empower Behavioral Health for special education services and a resolution to award adult high school diplomas. A public hearing was held for re-employment of a retired teacher. A motion to remove one consent item failed, but an amendment to change a date on that item was approved.

• Public hearing on re-employment of retired teacher Frances Penn as elementary teacher effective Jan 10, 2024
• Approved $112,500 contract with Haugland Learning Center/ Empower Behavioral Health for autism intervention services (Item 13.1)
• Approved resolution awarding diplomas to Leona L. Blackwell and Martaya Xzaviea Bryant via Ohio 22+ Adult High School Diploma Program (Item 13.2)
• Consent agenda amended to change sunset date to April 9, 2024 on Resolution Delegating Authority for Personnel Actions and Payment (Item 19.2)
• Public comments: Columbus Online Academy K-6 support and IEP transportation issue

2024 ORGANIZATIONAL MEETING

The Columbus Board of Education held its 2024 organizational meeting, swearing in new members Brandon Simmons, Sarah Ingles, Jennifer Adair, and Dr. Tina Pierce. The board elected Christina Vera as president and Dr. Tina Pierce as vice-president for 2024. They approved the 2024 meeting calendar and adopted an evaluation schedule for the superintendent, treasurer, and internal auditor. Appointees to various liaison roles were tabled.

• Swearing in of new board members Brandon Simmons, Sarah Ingles, Jennifer Adair, and Dr. Tina Pierce
• Election of Christina Vera as President of the Board for 2024
• Election of Dr. Tina Pierce as Vice-President of the Board for 2024
• Approval of the 2024 meeting calendar (regular meetings first and third Tuesdays at 6 p.m., no July meetings)
• Adoption of resolution to set evaluation schedules for Superintendent, Treasurer, and Internal Auditor by June 30, 2024