By Betsi Werling

The Bluffton Board of Education held its monthly meeting on August 18, which included regular business such as approval of contracts and assignments, as well as the treasurer’s report and reports from staff. The district’s proposal to create a practice field on land adjacent to the elementary school was the subject of visitor comments and officially approved by the board.

PUBLIC COMMENT
During the visitors’ portion of the meeting, several individuals shared concerns regarding the plan for an artificial turf practice field on Lawn Ave. Residents Mary Colletta and Annette Phillips shared their concerns with the location and safety of artificial turf. Ed Amstutz shared his concerns with the cost and how the project is funded. Dottie Long commented on trying to be good neighbors with the school and hoped that concerns will have solutions.

Superintendent Greg Denecker responded that the practice field is important to support students. He explained that it will provide additional space so athletic teams and younger kids have a place to play virtually year round. Board member Jeremy Scoles encouraged residents who want to continue a conversation to reach out to any board member or the Superintendent. 

PLANNING
Large design drawings for the artificial turf practice field were available for viewing at the meeting. The Board officially approved the project. Elements of the plan including closure of Vine St. and variances from Village zoning codes require approval by Village of Bluffton Council and the Zoning Board of Appeals; these processes are underway. Three Village of Bluffton representatives were present but did not speak at the school board meeting.

CONTRACTS AND ASSIGNMENTS
The Superintendent reported that Michele Eikenbary will be an educational aide. Georgia Adams will be a LD tutor. Substitute secretaries, cafeteria workers, educational aides and teachers were all approved by the board.

APOLLO REPORT
Scoles shared that Apollo Career Center held their open house on August 18. The center, which serves Bluffton and other school districts, welcomed 23 new staff members. Scoles reported that due to a late resignation, the automation robotics class had to be cancelled but seniors will be able to complete their program at Rhodes State College.

The public portion of the meeting was followed by an executive session.