By Paula Scott

On Monday, October 23, the Bluffton Board of Education meeting included visitors who addressed the board and an agenda that included approving coaching and advising contracts, recognising donations, and a tax levy renewal resolution.

Bluffton High School sophomore Ava Smallcombe talked about her experiences at the Makerfest event hosted by the Allen Economic Development Group at the Allen County Fairgrounds on October 12-13.  She called the experience “super helpful” as a way to see what’s beyond high school. She attended sessions including agriculture, brick masonry and oil transport. The board thanked her for accepting the invitation to speak to them.

A mother and grandfather of a 5-year old student came to talk about communication difficulties with the elementary school related to health forms and medical records. Their student has a heart condition and asthma. Superintendent Greg Denecker responded that he would help them follow up and that his door was always open.

The board unanimously approved all minutes, treasurer’s transactions and action items on the agenda. (Find details HERE.)

A resolution of necessity was passed to levy a renewal tax to raise the amount of $714,392 each year for a period of five (5) years for operating expenses. The resolution established that the renewal levy should be presented to voters in March 2024.

The board approved donations including three amounts in memory of Deb Herr and her support of the strings music program, a $7,500 donation from Ford B. Cauffiel for student-to-student tutoring and a Class of 1960 donation towards unpaid lunch fees.

The board also heard administrative reports from the school district principals, technology coordinator and maintenance supervisor.

The next meeting of the Board of Education will be held in the Bluffton Elementary School media center at 7:30 p.m. on Monday, November 20.