The Groveport Madison Schools Board of Education began the meeting with a moment of silence for the Tuscarawas Valley Local Schools community in recognition of the fatal accident involving Tusky Valley Band students, chaperones, & faculty. We send our love and support to the victims and families of all who were involved. You can support their community and donate towards recovery efforts by visiting their GoFundMe page here: https://gofund.me/903232de.

 

During this time, the BOE recognized all veterans of all branches. Thank you to all veterans for your sacrifice, bravery, and the example you set for us all. A big thank you to our BOE members - LaToya Dowdell-Burger, Chris Snyder, and Kathy Walsh for their military service. The BOE would also like to thank all GMSD staff members who have served or are currently serving in the military. 

November is recognized as Native American Heritage Month. We celebrate this month by honoring the histories, cultures, and contributions of Native people to the United States. National Native American Heritage Month, or as it is commonly referred to, American Indian and Alaska Native Heritage Month, is a time to celebrate rich and diverse cultures, traditions, and histories and to acknowledge the significant contributions of Native people. Native Americans have made distinct and vital contributions to the United States and the rest of the world in many fields, including agriculture, medicine, music, language, and art.

The last recognition was to proclaim November 13-17, 2023, as the observance of Ohio Public Education Appreciation Week. Ohio Public Education Appreciation Week celebrates public education, honoring individuals who make a difference in ensuring every child receives a quality education and recognizing the importance public education has in our community. 

 

Kimyata Comwell gave the Safety Committee Update. She discussed how last month, the safety committee reflected on how well the Evolv Screening Detectors have been doing at GMHS. Students have been very receptive and positive, and these systems have not delayed the day. 

 

More updates on our safety initiatives can be found on our website:

The Board of Education reviewed the applications from 4th- through 12th-grade students for their advisory committees. After their review, they chose students from various buildings to serve on the committee. These students will be notified soon regarding their acceptance to the committee.

 

The BOE also extended the Parent Advisory Committee application deadline to Dec. 1st. If you are a parent in our district and interested in serving on this council, please complete the following application: https://forms.gle/stpAJwkhFJdpswWM6.

 

Last year, the Board of Education transitioned the current policy structure from Neola to the OSBA (Ohio School Board Association) policy structure. The Superintendent, Board Policy Committee, and OSBA representatives have spent many hours reviewing policies to make the switch from Neola to OSBA. 

 

During the meeting, Mrs. Haycox walked the BOE through the first draft of the new policy to make notes on where revisions could be made. The final draft will be reviewed during the December meeting, and the BOE plans to move to the new policies effective January 2024. 

Board of Education meetings generally occur on the second Wednesday of the month, starting at 7:00 PM. The Board may also schedule special meetings as needed. Upcoming meetings include:

View approved Board of Education meeting minutes at https://www.gocruisers.org/BoardMeetingMinutes.aspx.