An update on the visit by elected officials to Springfield Schools was presented by Superintendent Matt Geha at the board’s April 26 meeting.
The district hosted elected officials from Holland, Springfield Township, the Ohio Senate and U.S. House of Representatives on April 21.
The visit served as an opportunity for Springfield Schools to highlight a broad spectrum of educational offerings the district provides for its students.
Mr. Geha described the visitors as “blown over by what Springfield offers” and were so impressed by what they saw that he “had trouble keeping them on schedule. They asked so many questions.”
He noted that while the tour was organized, none of the interactions with students or staff were scripted.
Officials witnessed education across all grade levels–from elementary students aspiring to become musicians on boomwhackers and recorders to STEAM classes in middle school and vocational opportunities for high schoolers.
The goal of bringing public officials to the district was to show them that a “one size fits all” approach doesn’t work.
The learning needs and capabilities of each student varies, Mr. Geha explained.
In many cases, the requirements of students on Individualized Education Plans exceed the funds received, yet the services are necessary to educate the whole child.
Mr. Geha said one suggestion made was that in lieu of vouchers, the money be directed toward students on IEPs.
The superintendent concluded his presentation by thanking school board members who attended, as well as the staff for their assistance with the visit.
Other Business
In other business, the school board:
•Issued a stipend to Kristie DiSalle, Summer Spark program instructor.
•Awarded a pupil activity permit contract to Eleanor Kosek, SHS track and field position coach, effective April 24.
•Accepted the retirement resignation of Stacey Duncan, effective August 18, and thanked her for her service to the district.
The board also accepted resignations from Carole Davies, data lead and instructional coach, and Samuel Hartman, both effective August 1; Benjamin Miller, middle school English, August 4; Morgan Roe, SMS school counselor, August 3, and Dennis Springs, SHS assistant boys basketball coach, April 24.
•Awarded substitute contracts for the remainder of this school year to Brendon Avalos and Eliza Evans, teachers; Jodi Berndt, bus aide, and Sierra Martin, food service.
•Received an update on safety and security from Mr. Geha. He said Brett Warner, safety and security director, “is just doing great” and has been visiting schools and constantly reviewing security measures.
•Treasurer Ryan Lockwood noted that the public address system is nearly done at the high school and is equipped with indoor and outdoor sound systems. He added that work also is progressing on the system at the middle school and should be done in the near future.
“We are working on a similar sound system at the new building as well,” Mr. Lockwood added.
•Accepted a donation of two wheelchairs from Promedica valued at $500.
•Approved two requests to attend professional development days.
The next board of education meeting will be a study session at 4:15 p.m., Wednesday, May 10, and the next regular meeting will be at 4:15 p.m., Wednesday, May 24. Held at the administration building, 6900 Hall Street, Holland, the meetings are open to the public.
