By Betsi Werling

The Bluffton School Board met on Monday, May 18 with President Roni Kaufman conducting the meeting. Among items on the agenda: fund adjustments were made for revenue of $82K over anticipated amounts. Technology Coordinator Courtnee Morris wil begin teaching in the next academic year and Todd Boblitt will serve as Technology Coordinator.

TREASURER’S REPORT
Paula Parish reported that the district received more revenue than was appropriated. Fund adjustments with amended certificates will be made for middle school building Improvements, high school Ocean Focus Trip, Class of 2026 and the Athletic Fund. The total for these adjustments was $82,505. 

The Library Budget Hearing will occur on June 29, 2026.

CONTRACTS, ASSIGNMENTS, RESIGNATION & ETC 

Retirements

• Marty Grace, cafeteria for 4 years
• Steve Hardesty, bus driver for 29 years
• Julia Inniger, teacher for 29 years 

New assignments

• Coutrnee Morris will enter the classroom as a teacher effective July 31, 2026. 
• Todd Bobblitt will serve as the Technology Coordinator on a three-year contract, as needed basis and paid per diem rate. 
• Jack Hohenbrink will be the district's bus driver.

2026 GRADUATES
A list of graduates was presented to the Board. Graduation is Saturday, May 23 with a slide show beginning at 6:30 p.m. and ceremony starting at 7 p.m. 

INSURANCE RENEWAL

The district will renew SORSA insurance. The district's properties were assessed at $71 million. With costs increasing, the premium increased a bit. SORSA consortium plan with 110 participating schools. The Board approved the $89,839.00 agreement. 

APOLLO REPORT
Board member Jeremy Scoles reported that Apollo Honors Night is Wednesday, May 20. Among 449 graduating seniors, 16 are from Bluffton

ADMINISTRATIVE REPORTS 

Buildings and Grounds Superivsor Mike Wilson reported that end of year work is moving smoothly. The Student Government helped with mulching in preparation for commencement.

Technology Coordinator Courtnee Morris reported that his department is getting ready for summer work. He is sending papers home with students who wish to be summer technology assistants.

Elementary School
Principal Kori Bernal shared that the Math and Science scores for 5th grade went up. Math scores were 89%. Fourth Grade stayed the same. Field Day was held on the new artificial turf field. It was convenient and allowed for quick use of restrooms. Lunch was on time for all the grades. Bernal reported that some work has been done with the Behavior Leadership program. Teachers Jessica Parke and Emily Ellerbrock are training others and have spent time on the “I Notice” strategy and focusing on the positive. 

Middle School
Principal Doug Westrick reported that students did well on recent Math and Science state tests. The 7th grade went to the Ohio Caverns and 8th grade students have returned from the Washington, DC trip. 

The Middle School will be holding an Honor Roll Breakfast for students who received recognition in the 3rd and 4th quarters. Shark Tank and Night at the Museum were both well attended. The Coin Wars raised just over $1,000 for Organ Donations in honor of the late Katrina Riepenhoff.

Superintendent
Greg Denecker reported that the district had some of the highest scores in years. With eight retirements taking place, these individuals have provided a combined 220 years of service.

The Board went into Executive Session at 5:50 p.m. . 

NEXT MEETING
Monday, June 29, at 5:30 p.m. in the Elementary School Library and Tech Center.