For the district’s performance on the career tech report card, Penta Career Center received the 2023 5-Star Award.
At the April 10 meeting, Superintendent Ed Ewers told the school board that the district received the award for its performance on the 2022-23 career technical planning district report card.
The award was presented to Penta by the Ohio Department of Education and Workforce (ODEW) and Governor Mike DeWine.
In a letter to the district, Stephen Dackin, ODEW director, wrote, “I am delighted to extend my heartfelt congratulations to Penta for achieving the prestigious Overall 5-Star award.”
He continued, “The award is a testament to your dedication, hard work and the quality of education you offer your students.”
He also noted the award represents the devoted teachers and staff who “go above and beyond, ensuring that all students receive exceptional learning and instruction.”
Mr. Dackin believes the award should serve as a “source of pride and motivation that continues to inspire, innovate and make a difference in the lives of students.”
At the request of the board, Mr. Ewers plans to have the award framed and hung in a prominent location.
Other Business
In other business, the school board:
•Waived student fees, uniform costs and school meals for the 2024-25 school year.
Mr. Ewers estimates the cost to the district at $193,000, student fees; breakfast/lunch, $167,000, and uniforms, $288,000.
•Administered the oath of office to board member Kathy Limes, representing the Wood County Educational Service Center. Ms. Limes’ term runs through December 31, 2026.
•Approved the resignation of Krista Hellwig, agriculture satellite instructor, effective at the end of the school year.
•Issued a one-year limited contract to Elizabeth Kayser, small animal care instructor, beginning with the 2024-25 school year.
They also hired part-time adult education instructors Andrew Carter, public safety, and Gisell Smith, dental assisting, $31 per hour, April 11 to June 30.
•Reviewed changes to several school policies from Ms. Limes, who sits on the board’s policy committee. Most of the changes pertain to language, she said, adding the board will vote on the proposed revisions at the May meeting.
•Received an update from Michael Rietzke, IT Academy instructor, regarding esports, a form of competition using video games.
There are 136 students participating in esports in the fall and spring programs, he said, noting it continues to grow in popularity. Two teams made it to regionals at Cedar Point.
“It was a wonderful trip,” said student Tavion Torrez. “I learned a lot and the Cedar Point esports center is amazing.”
He and fellow classmates and esports players Roland Keller and Bradley Smith believe the program teaches leadership, a sense of community and willingness to learn, among other skills.
Brad, who will be graduating next month, commended the two players. “I think these two [Tavion and Roland] have grown a lot as leaders and are ready to take over this program.”
•Approved 44 requests to attend professional development meetings, most of which are for student competitions and conventions.
The next board of education meeting will be at 5:15 p.m., Wednesday, May 8, in the board meeting room of the career center, 9301 Buck Road, and is open to the public.
