The Galion City School District Board of Education met on November 21, 2023. The Board reviewed, discussed, and, when necessary, approved preliminary agenda items. Following those initial items, the Board moved to student recognition.
The Board recognized four students who have consistently demonstrated the Portrait of a Tiger trait, Self-Disciplined, throughout the month of November. These four outstanding individuals, Issebella Thoman from 1st grade, Korinna Garrison from 4th grade, Koh Jo from 7th grade, and Makenzie Lehman from 12th grade, were recognized for consistently demonstrating a commendable level of self-discipline in their academic pursuits and beyond. Their dedication to personal growth and commitment to maintaining focus and responsibility serve as an inspiration to their peers and reflect the values fostered within the Galion City School District.
Galion School's Treasurer, Charlene Parkinson, then presented the district’s Five-Year Forecast in compliance with Ohio Revised Code (O.R.C.) 5705.391 and Ohio Administrative Code (O.A.C.) 3301-92-04 requirements. The forecast, a vital management tool, serves multiple purposes, such as engaging the Board of Education and the community in long-range planning and assisting the Ohio Department of Education and State Auditor in identifying potential financial challenges.
The forecast overview revealed a positive cash balance projected through FY28, with 73.3% of revenue sourced from the State in FY24. While challenges are ahead, such as the necessity to renew the 7.73 mill operating levy expiring in December 2026, the district strategically utilized ESSER funds to stretch General Fund resources. Notably, total revenue is estimated to grow by 2.36% annually over the next five years, while expenses are projected to grow by 7.34% per year, prompting proactive efforts to align expenses with revenues beginning in FY24.
Treasurer Parkinson highlighted the ongoing challenges to operating revenue, emphasizing the impact of legislation like Ohio House Bill 33, the Fair School Funding Plan, and potential alterations from Ohio House Bill 187 and Senate Bill 153 on future reappraisal numbers. The forecast also underscored the critical need for vigilance in managing costs, where costs are estimated at 75.3%.
Regular Board business included the review of past meeting minutes, acceptance of donations and Board Policy revisions and review. The Treasurer’s report included Financial Statement and Audit Compliance reports, and agreements were approved with EJ Therapy and NOVA prior to Dr. Hartmann presenting his Superintendent’s Report.
The board's next regular meeting will occur on Tuesday, December 19, 2023, at 6:30 p.m. in the Galion Middle School Computer Lab.
The November meeting was adjourned at 7:09 p.m.