By Betsi Werling

The June 27 meeting of the Bluffton Exempted Village Schools Board of Education included approval of the 2025 Bluffton Public Library budget and raises for many school employees over the next three years.

Beth Raeburn and Jamie Erford appeared as teacher representatives in the Bluffton Education Association. Collective bargaining between the Board and both Bluffton Education Association and the Ohio Association of Public School Employees resulted in a 4.25% increase for the next three years. This will impact teachers, administrators, bus drivers, custodians and employees currently working for Bluffton Schools.

The Board of Education approved the Bluffton Public Library budget, which will begin on January 1, 2025.

During Contracts, Assignments and Resignations, the board accepted resignations from Christa Burgei, who returns to Lima City Schools, and Kasey Krendl, who moves to Bath Schools.

Liability insurance for the district will cost $78,817, which is an increase of $11,000. The insurance equates to $54M of insurance coverage.

The Board of Education approved a resolution for the purchase of a new bus. Cardinal Bus Sales & Service, Inc submitted a bid of $130,564 and the Board accepted the bid. With the purchase of this bus, the school fleet totals seven; all buses have 84-passenger capacity.

The board approved a donation of $150 to American Legion Post 382 for the Memorial Day Parade.

In Administrative reports, Middle School Principal Doug Westrick reported that during the past academic year there were 500 trips taken with Bluffton buses, about 50 more trips than the previous year. Elementary School Principal Ben Thiel gave his final report (he has accepted the position of pastor with Bluffton Community church). Superintendent Greg Denecker reported on projects including resurfacing black top, gym refinishing, lighting and all rooms are being completely wiped down in preparation for the upcoming school year.