By Betsi Werling

The Bluffton Board of Education held its monthly meeting on September 15 in the Elementary School Media Center. Board action included approving a $1.26M bid for constructing an (artificial) turf field next to the elementary school playground.

The bid was made through a joint purchasing program, The Interlocal Purchasing System (TIPS). Maumee Bay Turf, Inc. submitted a bid for $1,263,780. Construction is set to begin in mid-October. 

TREASURER
Treasurer Paula Parish reported that the 2026-2029 financial forecast is done. A Bureau of Workman’s Compensation grant was awarded to the district in the amount of $80,000. The grant was for safety measures in custodial work. The grant will fund safer equipment like scrubbers and extractors. Mr. Scoles abstained from voting due to his new role with BWC. 

CONTRACTS
During contracts, assignments and resignations, the Board approved all hires and volunteers. Supplemental contracts for winter sports were presented. In addition, substitute secretaries, cafeteria workers, educational aides and teachers were listed in the Agenda. The. 

The Board voted to approve an 8th grade trip to Washington, D.C. from May 12 to May 14, 2026. 

Superintendent Greg Decker is seeking re-hire upon retirement. A public meeting will be held November 19, 2025 at 5:00 p.m. in the Elementary Media Center.

APOLLO REPORT
Board member Jeremy Scoles shared that Apollo enrollment is up 48% over the last 9 years and staff employment is up 28%. The current enrollment for Bluffton students is 37, the highest enrollment from Bluffton in recent years. 

ADMINISTRATORS
Middle School Principal Doug Westrick shared that a trial is being done with new transportation software. There are three new staff members in the Middle School this year. 

High School Principal Mike Mining reported that sophomores will attend Makerfest, which is October 9 and 10 at the Allen County Fairgrounds. A group of seniors will be attending a Real Money, Real World event at UNOH. An Ocean Focus trip to the Bahamas is taking applications until September 19.

Technology Coordinator Courtnee Morris reported that there was a new technology special in the Elementary being taught by Ashley Fry. There are two new technology courses in the High School.  A recent focus has been ethical use of technology. 

Superintendent Denecker reported that 130 people attended the September Senior Citizens breakfasts.

The meeting adjourned at 5:28 p.m. The next meeting will be October 20, 2025 at 5 p.m. in the Bluffton Elementary Media Center.