The Bluffton Board of Education met on Monday May 16 to receive financial and administrative reports, approve treasurer’s transactions, agreements, and contracts.

VISITORS

During the visitors segment, Bluffton High School teacher Nick Rackley reported on the E-sports program which now has 20-40 participants per semester. Bluffton is one of the “alpha originals” in the league, according to Rackley. Four students have received E-sports scholarships to colleges and universities.

The board discussed student interest in the program and opportunities to create a middle school program.  

TREASURER’S TRANSACTIONS

Treasurer Paula Parish provided an update to the financial forecast which is done in November and May. She noted that the May forecast includes 10 months of data and just two to forecast. Also, federally funded lunches for all students are ending; next year students will have to qualify for this assistance.

APPROVAL OF GRADUATES

The board unanimously approved a list of graduates in the class of 2022.

OTHER

Agreements, contracts, resignations and handbooks for the next school year were approved unanimously.

REPORTS

Maintenance

Mike Wilson reported on Mulch Day with student senate. About a dozen students assisted with the spreading of mulch at the schools.

High School

Principal Mike Minnig reviewed recent and upcoming events. He noted how much the music performances at Senior Citizen Breakfasts are enjoyed and thanked band director Dave Sycks and choral director Kara Zink for their work. He also noted that track and baseball are still competing.

Middle School

Principal Josh Kaufman reviewed activities including the upcoming Night at the Museum and a pickle ball competition in which the middle school was “humbled” by guest competitors. Kaufman noted that a career tech program for grades 6, 7 and 8 will be introduced next year.

Elementary School

Principal Ben Thiel reviewed activities including the 1st grade author party, which he attended as principal and as a dad; teacher appreciation week, May 17 talent show, SMART week, Field Day rescheduled due to rain forecast, 1st and 8th grade Disney Day, and kindergarten trip to the Toledo Zoo.

Superintendent

Greg Denecker thanked the kitchen staff for helping with Senior Citizen breakfasts and students who helped serve the meals. He also congratulated the Bluffton High School class of 2022.

The meeting was approximately one half hour long.