Teachers and facilities ready for the 2026-2027 school year; Meet the Teacher to be held August 26

By Betsi Werling

The Bluffton School Board met on Monday, August 17, with President Roni Kaufman calling the meeting to order. 

TREASURER’S REPORT
Paula Parrish reported that fund transfers from general to activity accounts are the normal budgeted amounts for FY 26-27. The American Red Cross Scholarship for 2026 came in at $500.00. The financial forecast for August was submitted and approved by the Board. The State budget is through FY2027 and the forecast also incorporated this information. 

RESOLUTION
There is $64,322.76 remaining from the bond established for construction of the Bluffton Middle School, which will be transferred into the Permanent Improvement Fund. (Editor's note: This bond was paid in 2021-2022; the transfer allows the balance to be used in the same manner as established in the1996 ballot language.)

APOLLO REPORT
Jeremy Scoles reported on the Apollo Career Center, where new students will begin on August 26 and returning students will start on August 27. There are 18 of 20 programs completely full with waitlists. The 50th year of Apollo will be celebrated in 2026 with the adoption of a new logo and celebrations throughout the year. 

ADMINISTRATIVE REPORTS 

High School
Principal Mike Minnig reported that the custodial staff has prepared the facilities for students to arrive. Schedule pickup and pictures will be Friday, August 21 and Monday, August 24. Participation numbers for fall sports and activities, along with College Credit Plus, are looking strong. 

Buildings and Grounds
Supervisor Mike Wilson reported all buildings are ready for the fall and outside facilities are ready for sporting events. On August 16, the fire alarm was triggered; further inspection found a bad smoke detector in a duct. The issue has been resolved. 

Technology
Supervisor Todd Bobblitt reported that computers have been set up for teachers and the Chromebook carts are ready for students. 

Elementary
Principal Jeff Richards reported that many teachers have already set up their rooms for the year. Next week, there will be training on Behavioral Leadership. 

Superintendent
Greg Denecker reported that there will be 4 days of staff training next week. On Tuesday, staff will interact with education presenter Jack Berckemeyer. The Behavioral Leadership training will continue the focus on encouraging positive affirmations and making good decisions in the classroom. 

On Wednesday, August 26, from 5:00-6:00 p.m., the district will hold a Meet the Teacher event for grades K-12. 

EXECUTIVE SESSION
An executive session was held with the Board reconvening at 6:15 p.m. 

CONTRACTS, ASSIGNMENTS & RESIGNATIONS 

Substitute teachers, substitute educational aides, and substitute secretaries were approved. A supplemental contract for Bryan Lloyd as the Assistant High School Football Coach was approved. Additionally, several volunteer football supplemental contracts were approved and Travis Kleman will serve as the Head Wrestling Coach.

Trystahn Eyerly, the technology administrative assistant, resigned effective August 28, 2026. 

Janel Hardeman will be a part-time cafeteria worker, with her first day on August 24, 2026. 

Heidi Steiner is moving from half-time to full-time.