Above) Interim superitendent Dennis Recker presents commendations to Middlefield Bank (top) and Buckeye East Coffee Shop (below) as well as Quest Federal Credit Union and U.S. Bank.

By Paula Pyzik Scott

The May 16 meeting of the Ada Schools Board of Education included numerous staffing approvals, an updated financial forecast, commendations for several local businesses and approval of a waiver of school fees for the 2024-2025 school year.

In his report to the board, Ada Elementary Principal Jeremy Clark noted his resignation was on the agenda that evening. Clark has accepted a position with the Bath Local School District. His comments included appreciation for the example set by high school principal Dan Lee and his "100% commitment" to the schools.

Contracts were approved for new hires Chris Sautter, who will teach 5th grade math, and Colton Montgomery, who will teach high school social studies.

Four local businesses received certificates of recognition for their support of the schools: Buckeye East Coffee Shop, Middlefield Banking Company, Quest Federal Credit Union and U.S. Bank.

Treasurer Kim Light made her monthly report and presented a financial forecast through 2028 (attached). Light and interim Superintendent Dennis Recker expressed their dissatisfaction with the Ohio requirement to issue an extended forecast while only two years of state budgeting is provided to districts. As Light noted, fiscal years 2027 and 2028 are simply shown as flat, repeating revenue and expenditure from the previous year. For Fiscal Year 2024, AEVS revenue “are substantially on target” with total General Fund revenues estimated to be 2.87% lower than the November forecast.

The five member board approved 31 items recommended by interim Superintendent Dennis Recker including item W “waiver of student school fees for the 2024-2025 school year. During discussion board member Ted Griffith spoke against the motion, saying he felt the funds should be saved for building needs. Board member Matt Gossman spoke in favor of taking on the expense. Light noted that the approval is for one year and does not include fees currently due to the schools.

The next meeting of the school board is June 27 at 6:00 p.m. The school calendar is posted HERE.