Akron Public Schools public meetings in 2020
63 substantive meetings from 2020, with official agendas or minutes and plain-English summaries.
Previous Years Board Meetings - Boarddocs Imported meetings(2005-2026)
The Akron Public Schools Board is holding a special virtual meeting to consider a recommendation to purchase network monitoring software from CDW Government LLC for up to $50,000, replacing the current SolarWinds system due to a reported breach. The board will also discuss end-of-year wrap-up, AdvanceAPS, and the organizational meeting, and may enter executive session.
- Purchase of WhatsUp Gold licenses and services from CDW Government LLC, not to exceed $50,000, funded from the General Fund
- Approval of the Business Affairs recommendation
- Discussion topics: End-of-the-Year Wrap-Up, AdvanceAPS, Organizational Meeting
- Possible executive session and action from it
Template Finance and Capital Management Committee Meeting - Boarddocs Imported meetings(2020-2026)
The Akron Public Schools Finance and Capital Management Committee is meeting to discuss legislative updates, district-wide financial information, and equity in spending. The committee will review the Fair School Funding Plan, H.B. 442 and H.B. 75, as well as the district's investment policy and a year-in-review priority list. No formal votes are scheduled; items are for discussion only.
- Recognition of Forecast5 Award for a student digital footprint tracking project
- Discussion of legislative updates including H.B. 442 and H.B. 75
- Review of district-wide financial information and 2020 year-in-review priority list
- Review of current investment policy and suggested NEOLA investment policy
- Discussion of equity and transparency in spending/unit level analysis
Joint Board of Review - Archive
The Akron Public Schools Joint Board of Review is meeting to approve minutes from September 14, 2020, and to consider a change order request for the PR-022 Kenmore-Garfield project, which involves added polished concrete. The meeting is largely procedural, with only one action item on the agenda.
- Approval of September 14, 2020 meeting minutes
- Change Order Request for PR-022 Kenmore-Garfield added Polished Concrete
Previous Years Board Meetings - Boarddocs Imported meetings(2005-2026)
The Akron Board of Education will hold a virtual regular meeting on December 14, 2020, at 5:30 p.m. The agenda includes routine approvals of minutes, personnel actions (resignations, retirements, appointments, supplemental contracts), and a few informational items. No major policy or budget decisions are listed; the meeting is largely procedural.
- Approval of minutes from Nov 24 and Nov 30 meetings
- Retirements of Maureen Seitz and Gerald Simcox effective 5-31-21
- New hire Andrea Watts, Elementary teacher, salary $41,014.01
- Supplemental contracts for coaches and coordinators, e.g., Samarr Lopp (JV Basketball, $4,101.40), William King (Varsity Asst. Swim, $2,460.84)
- Reclassification of Christina Bartow to Secretary III, salary increase to $47,335.56
Instructional Policy & Student Achievement Committee Meeting - Boarddocs Imported meetings(2020-2026)
The Instructional Policy Committee will review minutes, discuss consent agenda items including new English Language Arts courses (Media Technology and Broadcasting) and a K-12 Computer Science course, and consider a $36,000 purchase for early learning curriculum. They will also discuss other agenda items such as Remote Plus, district training compliance, and Portage Path IB authorization, and receive updates on the College & Career Academy, I PROMISE School, and STEM High School app challenge winners.
- Approval of new ELA courses: Media Technology I/II (grades 5-6) and Broadcasting I/II (grades 7-8)
- Addition of K-12 Computer Science to Mathematics Graded Courses of Study
- Purchase of Creative Curriculum Cloud for Preschool from Teaching Strategies, LLC, $36,000, for 30 ELP staff
- Discussion of Remote Plus, District Training Compliance, and Portage Path IB Authorization
- Updates on College & Career Academy, I PROMISE School Master Plan, and STEM High School Congressional App Challenge winners
Legal and Contracts Committee Meeting - Archive
The Legal, Contracts and Board Policy Committee will review a proposed racial equity policy and hold a second reading of a policy on naming school facilities. They will also discuss a bylaw on committees and approve the previous meeting's summary.
- Approval of November 11, 2020 meeting summary
- Discussion of proposed racial equity policy
- Second reading of Policy 7250 - Commemoration of School Facilities
- Discussion of Bylaw 0155 - Committees
Previous Years Board Meetings - Boarddocs Imported meetings(2005-2026)
The Akron Board of Education will hold a virtual regular meeting on November 30, 2020, at 5:30 p.m. The board will vote on a resolution approving the Five-Year Forecast beginning FY21, presented by CFO Ryan Pendleton, and will review the College & Career Academies of Akron Middle School Master Plan Addendum before a later vote. The agenda also includes numerous personnel actions, including retirements, leaves, and supplemental contracts for coaches and activity supervisors.
- Resolution #20-162 to approve the Five-Year Forecast Beginning FY21
- Review of College & Career Academies of Akron Middle School Master Plan Addendum
- Retirement of 9 professional staff members, including David L. Chaffman and Joe E. Gordon
- Employment of substitute teachers at $124.14 per day and substitute tutors at $29.65 per hour
- Limited supplemental contracts for coaches and activity supervisors, with amounts up to $9,023.08
Previous Years Board Meetings - Boarddocs Imported meetings(2005-2026)
The Akron Public Schools Board is holding a special virtual meeting of the Records Destruction Commission on November 30, 2020, at 5:15 p.m. The sole discussion item is a list of records proposed for destruction, attached as a PDF. The meeting includes roll call, pledge of allegiance, and a motion to adjourn, making it a procedural session focused on this single action.
- Discussion of records destruction list (16 KB PDF attachment)
- Virtual special meeting at 5:15 p.m. on Nov 30, 2020
- Procedural items: roll call, pledge, adjournment motion
Instructional Policy & Student Achievement Committee Meeting - Boarddocs Imported meetings(2020-2026)
The Instructional Policy Committee is reviewing proposals for new media technology and computer science courses for grades 5-12. The committee is also considering several service agreements for staff professional development and instructional coaching.
- Proposed adoption of Media Technology and Broadcasting courses for grades 5-8
- Proposed K-12 Computer Science Graded Course of Study addendum
- Payment to AVID Center for virtual conference training up to $62,350.00
- Service agreement with Summit Educational Service Center up to $10,000.00
- Professional development agreements with Corwin Press, Inc. for various CLCs totaling $196,000
Previous Years Board Meetings - Boarddocs Imported meetings(2005-2026)
This is a special virtual board meeting. The board will hold a planning session with the Ohio School Boards Association regarding the superintendent search. The rest of the agenda is procedural, including roll call, pledge, and adjournment.
- Planning session with Ohio School Boards Association on superintendent search
- Virtual special board meeting at 5:30 p.m.
- Roll call and pledge of allegiance
- Motion to adjourn
Template Finance and Capital Management Committee Meeting - Boarddocs Imported meetings(2020-2026)
The committee met to discuss legislative updates regarding EdChoice and the Fair School Funding Plan. The meeting also included a review of the five-year forecast, the state of financial affairs, and the CCAA Middle School budget.
- Legislative update on EdChoice and Fair School Funding Plan
- Review of May 2020 five year forecast
- District-wide financial information review
- CCAA Middle School Budget Review
- Discussion on equity and transparency in spending
Previous Years Board Meetings - Boarddocs Imported meetings(2005-2026)
The Akron Board of Education will hold a virtual regular meeting on November 16, 2020, at 5:30 p.m. The agenda includes opening formalities, recognitions, approval of previous meeting minutes, and personnel recommendations. The board will consider retirements, resignations, leaves, appointments, salary revisions, and supplemental contracts for the 2020-2021 school year. A public request to address the board on in-person learning is also listed.
- Approval of minutes from Oct 26, Nov 2, and Nov 11 meetings
- Retirements/resignations: Jennifer Black, Beth Ann Cook, Martha L. Halley, Glenda G. Keaton, Barbara Metzger, Janet Willse
- Appointments: Lauren Bailey ($53,437.15), Kaitlin Kinsey ($49,746.71), Madisson Sharp ($85,240.05), Makenzie Wickert ($44,193.01)
- Salary revisions: Marisa Caputo, Dexter Dave, Felicia Mercado
- Supplemental contracts for various schools, including vocal music directors, technology coordinators, and intervention assistants
Previous Years Board Meetings - Boarddocs Imported meetings(2005-2026)
This is a special virtual board meeting with opening formalities, a presentation on the Middle School College & Career Academies Master Plan Addendum, and adjournment. No votes or decisions are listed beyond procedural actions.
- Presentation: Middle School College & Career Academies Master Plan Addendum
- Roll call and pledge of allegiance
- Motion to adjourn
Legal and Contracts Committee Meeting - Archive
The Legal, Contracts and Policy Committee of Akron Public Schools is meeting to approve prior meeting summaries and to discuss a proposed racial equity policy, specifically to define the language in certain sections. The meeting is primarily a discussion session, with no final decisions on the policy expected at this time.
- Approval of October 5, 2020 meeting summary
- Approval of November 5, 2020 meeting summary
- Discussion of proposed racial equity policy language
Previous Years Board Meetings - Boarddocs Imported meetings(2005-2026)
The Akron Board of Education will hold a virtual regular meeting on October 26, 2020, at 5:30 p.m. The agenda includes public comments on the upcoming decision about in-person instruction for the second grading period, as well as recognitions, approval of minutes, and numerous personnel actions. The board will also consider supplemental contracts for staff at various schools.
- Public comments on in-person instruction decision for second grading period
- Petition to name Kenmore-Garfield gymnasium after Coach Yontami Jones
- Recognition of Carla Chapman as 2020 Ohio STEM Innovator Award recipient
- Approval of minutes from October 12, 2020 meeting
- Personnel actions: 6 retirements, 1 appointment, 1 salary revision, funding assignments
Template Finance and Capital Management Committee Meeting - Boarddocs Imported meetings(2020-2026)
The Akron Public Schools Finance Committee is meeting to discuss legislative updates, district-wide financial information, and equity in spending. Topics include a potential May 2021 levy, the 5-year forecast, and a spending analysis of the I Promise School. No formal votes are scheduled; the meeting is for discussion only.
- Discussion of H.B. 305, S.B. 350, and EdChoice legislation
- May 2021 levy timeline discussion
- 5-year forecast discussion
- I Promise School spending analysis
- Subway lease and racial equity policy discussion
Previous Years Board Meetings - Boarddocs Imported meetings(2005-2026)
The Akron Board of Education will hold a virtual regular meeting on October 12, 2020, at 5:30 p.m. The agenda includes public comments on school reopening, a discussion on the superintendent search, approval of previous minutes, and multiple personnel actions including resignations, appointments, and salary adjustments. The meeting is largely procedural, with no major policy decisions or contracts listed.
- Public comments on school reopening from Stephanie Childers, William Reynolds, and Jennifer Klein
- Discussion on superintendent search
- Approval of September 28, 2020 meeting minutes
- Personnel actions: 4 resignations/retirements, 1 leave of absence, 2 appointments (Russin $44,649.49, Saab $42,767.77), salary revisions for 3 staff
- Limited supplemental contracts for extra-duty assignments at multiple schools
Legal and Contracts Committee Meeting - Archive
The Akron Public Schools Legal Contracts and Policy Committee met on October 5, 2020, to conduct a second reading of 11 revised or new policies before they go to the full Board of Education. The agenda included updates to attendance, student discipline, procurement, and food services, alongside a new policy requiring protective facial coverings during pandemics. The committee also received status reports on the naming of a facility and the development of a racial equity policy.
- Second reading of New Policy 8450.01 Protective Facial Coverings During Pandemic/Epidemic Events
- Second reading of Revised Policy 5200 Attendance
- Second reading of Revised Policy 5610 Removal, Suspension, Expulsion and Permanent Exclusion of Students
- Second reading of Revised Policy 6325 Procurement - Federal Grants-Funds
- Status report on Proposed Policy Naming or Renaming of an APS Facility
Previous Years Board Meetings - Boarddocs Imported meetings(2005-2026)
The Akron Board of Education will hold a virtual regular meeting on September 28, 2020, at 5:30 p.m. The board will consider approving the minutes from the September 14 meeting and act on a series of personnel recommendations, including retirements, leaves, appointments, and supplemental coaching contracts. The agenda also includes employment of substitute teachers and educational assistants, as well as reclassifications and other staff changes.
- Approval of minutes from September 14, 2020 regular meeting
- Retirements of professional staff Jean Baltes and Susan Strebler effective 6-04-21
- Appointments of Dexter Dave (Engineering) and Cesar Toala Veloz (Spanish) at $44,649.49 each
- Supplemental coaching contracts for fall sports, including varsity girls basketball at $9,023.08
- Employment of 17 substitute teachers at $124.14 per day
Instructional Policy & Student Achievement Committee Meeting - Boarddocs Imported meetings(2020-2026)
The Instructional Policy Committee is meeting virtually to review minutes, discuss the consent agenda, and consider purchases and grants. Key items include a $267,926.74 state grant for expanding opportunities for low-income students, a $75,000 purchase of online courses for grades K-5, and a proposal for blended learning to be presented to the superintendent. The committee will also receive updates on various programs and recent awards.
- Expanding Opportunities for Each Child Grant: $267,926.74 from Ohio Dept. of Education
- Edmentum EdOptions Academy purchase: $75,000 for K-5 online courses (ESSER Fund)
- Blended learning proposal to be finalized for superintendent, board decision expected 10/26
- Graduation seals policy finalized
- Updates on College & Career Academy, I PROMISE School, Family Resource Center
Joint Board of Review - Archive
The Akron Public Schools Joint Board of Review will consider two change orders for school construction projects, approve meeting minutes, and discuss committee appointments. The board will vote on a $465,000 change order for additional vermiculite abatement at Ellet High School and a $324,073.40 change order for tile upgrades at Kenmore-Garfield CLC. It will also review the status of Citizens Monitoring Committee and CLC Advisory Committee appointments.
- Change order HC1-002: $465,000 for vermiculite removal at Ellet High School, funded by state and local funds
- Change order HCI-11: $324,073.40 for rubber and ceramic tile alternates at Kenmore-Garfield CLC, funded by state, local, and local initiative funds
- Approval of May 18, 2020 meeting minutes
- Status update on filling six vacancies on the Citizens Monitoring Committee
- Status report on CLC Advisory Committee membership and role
Template Finance and Capital Management Committee Meeting - Boarddocs Imported meetings(2020-2026)
The Akron Public Schools Finance Committee is meeting to discuss legislative updates, district-wide financial information, and unit-level analysis. Topics include H.B. 305, EdChoice, a pre-audit meeting, employee classifications, and a Forecast5 review. The meeting is primarily for discussion, with no formal votes listed.
- Discussion of H.B. 305 and EdChoice
- Pre-audit meeting for FY2020 audit
- Review of employee classifications and March 23 employee pay resolution
- Forecast5 review for unit-level analysis
Instructional Policy & Student Achievement Committee Meeting - Boarddocs Imported meetings(2020-2026)
The Instructional Policy Committee will review minutes, discuss consent agenda items including a $12,000 grant and textbook adoptions for Biotechnology and Dance, consider a continuation agreement with New Tech Network for Buchtel CLC, and approve the purchase of math manipulative kits. They will also receive updates on reopening plans, including APS Connected Learning 2.0 draft guidance, and updates from CCAA and I PROMISE School.
- Summit Education Initiative Grant of $12,000 for Process Mapping Training
- Textbook adoption for Biotechnology Anatomy and Physiology (CCAA) with multiple titles, quantities, and prices
- Textbook adoption for Dance (CCAA) including Experiencing Dance materials
- New Tech Network continuation agreement for Buchtel CLC, total cost not to exceed $75,062
- Hand2Mind math manipulative kits for grades K-5, total cost not to exceed $142,000
Template Finance and Capital Management Committee Meeting - Boarddocs Imported meetings(2020-2026)
The Finance Committee met to discuss legislative updates regarding H.B. 305 and district-wide financial information. The discussion included updates on federal stimulus funds, levy information, and school reopening plans.
- Legislative update on H.B. 305
- Update on Federal Stimulus Funds
- Review of district-wide reopening plans
- Discussion of levy information
- Unit level analysis of financial data
Previous Years Board Meetings - Boarddocs Imported meetings(2005-2026)
This is the second day of a two-day special board retreat. The board will discuss diversity, equity, inclusion, and racial justice; continue vision and strategic planning; and discuss finance and the levy. The board may also recess into executive session and could take action afterward.
- Discussion: Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, & Racial Justice
- Discussion: Vision & Strategic Planning, Part 2
- Discussion: Finance & Levy
- Possible action from executive session
Previous Years Board Meetings - Boarddocs Imported meetings(2005-2026)
The Akron Public Schools Board of Education is holding a special two-day retreat meeting. Day 1 discussions will cover the Re-Opening Plan and Vision & Strategic Planning. The board will also recess into executive session and may take action on items discussed there.
- Discussion of Re-Opening Plan
- Discussion of Vision & Strategic Planning
- Motion to recess into Executive Session per Ohio Revised Code 121.22(G)
- Possible action item from Executive Session
- Motion to adjourn
Previous Years Board Meetings - Boarddocs Imported meetings(2005-2026)
The Akron Board of Education will hold a virtual regular meeting on August 10, 2020, at 5:30 p.m. The agenda includes approval of the previous meeting's minutes, personnel recommendations for professional staff (appointments, transfers, salary revisions, rescission, and extended-time), and employment of substitute teachers and tutors. The board will also hear community reflections and requests to address the board, including a comment from Ward 8 Councilman Shammas Malik regarding Dave Marshall Baseball Field.
- Approve minutes of July 27, 2020 regular meeting
- Appoint 16 new professional staff for 2020-2021, salaries $41,014.01-$69,860.80
- Approve transfers/reclassifications for Goldsmith, McKeown, Walsh
- Revise salaries for Harding, Heginbotham, Kassinger
- Rescind employment of Megan Kowall (Speech Language Pathologist)
Template Finance and Capital Management Committee Meeting - Boarddocs Imported meetings(2020-2026)
The Finance Committee will discuss legislative updates and district-wide financial information. The meeting includes a review of the 2020/2021 budget and unit level analysis.
- Legislative update discussion
- District-wide financial information review
- 2020/2021 Budget Review
- Unit level analysis
Legal and Contracts Committee Meeting - Archive
The Legal, Contracts and Board Policy Committee will discuss updates to district policies, including a revised Title IX policy to comply with new federal regulations effective August 14, 2020, and a NEOLA policy update for the 2020-2021 school year. They will also review status reports on a proposed racial equity policy and a policy for naming or renaming district facilities.
- Discussion of Title IX regulations and updated Policy 2266 on nondiscrimination
- Review of NEOLA Update Vol. 39, No. 1, including revised Policy 5200 on attendance and new Policy 8450.01 on protective facial coverings
- Status report on proposed new racial equity policy
- Status report on proposed policy for naming or renaming an APS facility
Previous Years Board Meetings - Boarddocs Imported meetings(2005-2026)
The Akron Board of Education held a virtual meeting to approve routine personnel actions for the 2020-2021 school year. The agenda focused on hiring new professional staff, adjusting salaries for existing teachers, and employing substitute teachers and tutors. No major policy changes, budget votes, or facility projects were listed in the provided text.
- Approval of 10 new professional staff appointments, including Keith Boedicker at $71,943.50 and Monique Swain at $65,384.94
- Salary revisions for four staff members, including Joseph Toth increasing from $46,768.69 to $69,860.80
- Employment of substitute teachers at a rate of $124.14 per day or $62.07 per half day
- Hiring of 15 ESL tutors at hourly rates ranging from $31.02 to $32.48
- Two public comments requested regarding safety near the Dave Marshall Baseball Field in the Firestone HS neighborhood
Instructional Policy & Student Achievement Committee Meeting - Boarddocs Imported meetings(2020-2026)
The Instructional Policy Committee will review minutes from its June meeting and discuss two business affairs items: service agreements with Corwin Press for professional development at multiple Community Learning Centers, and the purchase of Career Cruising curriculum licenses from Xello, Inc. The committee will also receive an update on the Family Resource Center.
- Service agreements with Corwin Press for PD at 11 CLCs, total cost not to exceed $285,200, funded by School Quality Improvement Grant
- Purchase of 5,962 high school and 4,637 middle/elementary user licenses for Career Cruising curriculum from Xello, Inc., total cost not to exceed $36,635.47, funded by General Fund
- Review of June 16, 2020 meeting minutes
- Update on Family Resource Center
Previous Years Board Meetings - Boarddocs Imported meetings(2005-2026)
The Akron Board of Education met virtually to discuss a potential future levy and the plan for reopening schools for the 2020-2021 school year. The meeting also included consideration of several resolutions of necessity for levies.
- Resolution #20-087: Resolution of Necessity for a 6.9 mills levy
- Resolution #20-088: Resolution of Necessity for a 7.9 mills levy
- Resolution #20-089: Resolution of Necessity for an 8.9 mills levy
- Discussion on the plan for reopening schools for the 2020-2021 school year
Previous Years Board Meetings - Boarddocs Imported meetings(2005-2026)
The Akron Board of Education will hold a virtual regular meeting on July 13, 2020, at 5:30 p.m. The agenda is largely procedural, including approval of previous meeting minutes and a series of personnel recommendations covering resignations, appointments, transfers, and supplemental contracts for coaches and other staff. No major policy decisions or public hearings are listed.
- Approval of minutes from four prior meetings (June 19, 22, 29, and July 1, 2020)
- Resignations/retirements of 7 professional staff, including Elayne Fender and Carol Traugh (retirements)
- Appointment of 12 new professional staff for 2020-2021, with salaries ranging from $41,014.01 to $103,710.77
- Transfers of Sonya Colvin and Theresa Essandoh to Dean of Students roles with salaries of $92,139.64 and $78,772.24
- Supplemental contracts for 2019-2020 and 2020-2021, including coaching stipends (e.g., $9,023.08 for varsity football coaches)
Previous Years Board Meetings - Boarddocs Imported meetings(2005-2026)
The Akron Board of Education held a virtual special meeting on July 1, 2020. The sole purpose of the meeting was to discuss a future levy using CCAA data from 2019-2020.
- Discussion regarding a future levy
Previous Years Board Meetings - Boarddocs Imported meetings(2005-2026)
The Akron Board of Education held a virtual meeting to approve the minutes from June 8, 2020, and process personnel actions for the 2020-2021 school year. The agenda includes the appointment of 13 new professional staff members, the rescission of one employment offer, and the approval of FY21 extended-time and workshop stipend rates. No public hearings or major policy votes are listed in the provided text.
- Approval of 13 new professional staff appointments for 2020-21, including Abbie Akucewich ($53,838.68) and Lyndsey Nopper ($61,767.51)
- Employment of Adam Klimas as Dean of Students at an annual salary of $88,797.79
- Approval of FY21 Extended-Time Employment rate at $31.82 per hour
- Approval of FY21 Workshop Stipend rate at $14.00 per hour
- Rescission of employment for Amanda Wycuff as Dean of Students
Instructional Policy & Student Achievement Committee Meeting - Boarddocs Imported meetings(2020-2026)
The Instructional Policy Committee is meeting to review minutes from the May 12 meeting and receive updates on the College & Career Academy of Akron, the I PROMISE School master plan, and reopening and recovery action plans. The committee will also discuss a timeline for approving the Middle School Transformation Plan.
- Review of May 12, 2020 meeting minutes
- Update on College & Career Academy of Akron (CCAA)
- Middle School Transformation Plan timeline for approval
- I PROMISE School (IPS) Master Plan progress update
- Reopening & Recovery Action Plans update
Legal and Contracts Committee Meeting - Archive
The Akron Public Schools Legal, Contracts and Board Policy Committee is meeting to discuss several policy items, including a racial equity policy, a new policy for naming or renaming district facilities, and a second reading of a policy on electronic records and signatures. The committee will also review proposed revisions to purchasing policies and a federal grants procurement policy before they go to the Board of Education. Additionally, they will review new Title IX regulations from the U.S. Department of Education that take effect August 14, 2020.
- Discussion of racial equity policy (Policy 2260.04 and 2260.05) following board resolution declaring racism a public health crisis
- Proposed new policy for naming or renaming an APS facility
- Second reading of new Policy 6107 on electronic records and signatures
- Review of Policy 6320 (Purchases) and new Policy 6325 (Procurement - Federal Grants/Funds)
- Review of new Title IX regulations effective August 14, 2020
Previous Years Board Meetings - Boarddocs Imported meetings(2005-2026)
The Akron Board of Education passed Resolution #20-065, declaring racism a public health crisis. The resolution directs committees to revise racial equity policies and integrate culturally relevant content into the curriculum.
- Resolution #20-065: Declares racism a public health crisis
- Direction for expanded mandatory diversity, equity, and inclusion training for staff
- Authorization of bonus payments for 2020 Teachers of the Year
- Employment recommendation for Amanda Wycuff as Dean of Students at $85,455.95
- Salary revisions for Stephanie Chew and Adam Crow
Previous Years Board Meetings - Boarddocs Imported meetings(2005-2026)
The Akron Board of Education is holding a special virtual meeting to discuss a future levy. The agenda includes opening formalities, a discussion item on the future levy, and adjournment. No decisions are scheduled; the meeting is for discussion only.
- Special meeting called to discuss a future levy
- Virtual meeting scheduled for May 27, 2020, at 5:30 p.m.
- Agenda includes roll call and pledge of allegiance
- Meeting will adjourn with a motion
Joint Board of Review - Archive
The Akron Public Schools Joint Board of Review will consider approving a $64,996.25 purchase order for 2020 workforce monitoring and consulting services with G. Stephens, Inc., and will also vote on authorizing up to $300,000 in utility payments for the Kenmore/Garfield Community Learning Center construction. A service agreement with Palmer Conservation Consulting for energy services, not to exceed $129,944, is also on the agenda. The board will review the status of Citizens Monitoring Committee appointees and approve the February 10, 2020 meeting minutes.
- Purchase order of $64,996.25 to G. Stephens, Inc. for 2020 workforce monitoring and consulting services
- Authorization for purchase orders up to $300,000 for utility costs during Segment 6 construction of Kenmore/Garfield Community Learning Center
- Service agreement with Palmer Conservation Consulting for $129,944 for energy conservation services
- Review of Citizens Monitoring Committee appointees and replacements for resigned members
- Approval of February 10, 2020 meeting minutes
Template Finance and Capital Management Committee Meeting - Boarddocs Imported meetings(2020-2026)
The Akron Public Schools Finance Committee is meeting to discuss the district's five-year financial forecast. The agenda includes a roll call, a discussion of the forecast, and a review. No votes or decisions are listed on the agenda.
- Discussion of the Five Year Forecast
- Review of the forecast document
Instructional Policy & Student Achievement Committee Meeting - Boarddocs Imported meetings(2020-2026)
The Instructional Policy Committee will review minutes from April, discuss consent agenda items including mathematics textbook adoptions for Algebra II through AP Calculus and for NIHF STEM grades 6-8, and a fire safety program for grades 10-12. They will also discuss updates to College & Career Academies course pathways and a process/timeline for a fall 2020 reopening proposal. Updates will be provided on the College & Career Academy of Akron and the Family Resource Center.
- Textbook adoption for Algebra II, Pre-Calculus, Introductory Analysis, Applied Statistics, AP Statistics, AP Calculus
- Textbook adoption for NIHF STEM grades 6-8 mathematics
- Textbook adoption for CCAA Fire Safety program grades 10-12 (Jones & Bartlett Learning)
- Updated course pathways: JM Allied Health and N0 Information Technology for 2020-2021
- Discussion of process and timeline for fall 2020 reopening proposal
Template Finance and Capital Management Committee Meeting - Boarddocs Imported meetings(2020-2026)
The Akron Public Schools Finance Committee is meeting to discuss several financial topics, including 403(b) plan administration services and assignment agreements, the five-year forecast, and a levy timeline. No votes or decisions are listed on the agenda; items are marked as discussion topics only.
- Discussion of 403(b) Plan Administration Services
- Discussion of 403(b) Plan Assignment Agreement
- Discussion of Five Year Forecast
- Discussion of Levy Timeline
Previous Years Board Meetings - Boarddocs Imported meetings(2005-2026)
The Akron Board of Education will hold a virtual regular meeting on May 4, 2020, to consider routine personnel recommendations, including resignations, retirements, appointments, and funding changes. The board will also vote on accepting a $185,000 grant from the City of Akron for after-school programs, approve a budget revision for auxiliary services, and accept numerous donations for student internet hotspots and academic programs. The meeting is largely procedural, with no major policy decisions or public hearings.
- Approve personnel recommendations including resignations, retirements, and appointments (e.g., Melinda Arnitsis, $64,982.95; Aaron Male, $46,257.24)
- Accept $185,000 City of Akron grant for Akron After School Programs (Fund 019-2166)
- Approve revised Auxiliary Services Program budget of $2,753,967.04 from State of Ohio (Fund 401-2030)
- Accept donations totaling over $10,000 for student internet hotspots and academic programs
- Third reading of Bylaw 0169.1 on Public Participation at Board Meetings
Previous Years Board Meetings - Boarddocs Imported meetings(2005-2026)
The Akron Board of Education will hold a virtual regular meeting on April 20, 2020, at 5:30 p.m. The board will consider personnel recommendations (retirements, leaves, appointments, transfers), approve minutes from prior meetings, and vote on consent agenda items including OHSAA membership, the 2021-2022 school calendar (Option 2), and various financial appropriations and donations. The meeting is largely procedural with no public requests to address the board.
- Approve minutes from April 6 and April 10, 2020 meetings
- Personnel actions: retirements (Daniel Buechele, David Skelly, Hoa Tao), leaves (Amanda Cain, Lynn Schuster), appointment of Courtney Jones at $40,913.38, transfer of Alicia Harding to English teacher at $48,145.96
- Approve 2021-2022 school calendar (Option 2, chosen by 60% of employees) with first student day Aug. 24, 2021 and last day June 2, 2022
- Approve OHSAA membership resolution for 2020-2021
- Approve $8,000,000 appropriation for Kenmore-Garfield CLC construction (Segment 6) and $100,000 for Segment 4 delays; increase OFCC Maintenance Fund by $500,000 to $3,464,500
Instructional Policy & Student Achievement Committee Meeting - Boarddocs Imported meetings(2020-2026)
The Instructional Policy Committee is meeting to review minutes from February, discuss guidance documents for connected learning during emergencies, and receive updates on the College & Career Academy, remote learning progress, and the I PROMISE School. The agenda includes recognition of Akron as a Best Community for Music Education.
- Review of February 27, 2020 meeting minutes
- Discussion of APS Connected Learning Guidance Documents for prolonged emergencies
- Recognition as Best Community for Music Education by NAMM Foundation
- Update on APS Connected Learning: 19,482 connected, 907 not connected, 95.6% of students connected to Chromebook tasks
- Update on I PROMISE School Master Plan Progress
Previous Years Board Meetings - Boarddocs Imported meetings(2005-2026)
The Akron Board of Education will hold a virtual regular meeting on April 6, 2020, at 5:30 p.m. The board will consider personnel actions, including appointments, transfers, and resignations, as well as business affairs recommendations such as a $449,300 contract for the NIHF-STEM Cooling Plant Upgrade Project and a $110,000 purchase of custodial supplies. The agenda also includes approval of previous meeting minutes, acceptance of donations, and a possible executive session to discuss employment and legal matters.
- Contract with T.H. Martin Inc. for NIHF-STEM Cooling Plant Upgrade Project, not to exceed $449,300
- Purchase of custodial supplies from Alco under CUE contract, not to exceed $110,000
- Amendment to aha! Process, Inc. service agreement extending 'Emotional Poverty' book study through August 31, 2020, no funding change
- Personnel actions: appointments (e.g., Suzanne Eggeman, $51,306.81; Jenna Middleton, $77,001.20), transfers, and resignation of Brian Fuller as Assistant Athletic Director at Firestone CLC
- Acceptance of donations including $750 from Partners for Theater, Inc. and various items for Pfeiffer Elementary track team
Previous Years Board Meetings - Boarddocs Imported meetings(2005-2026)
This is a procedural special board meeting held virtually on April 2, 2020, at noon. The board recessed into executive session to consider personnel matters under Ohio Revised Code 121.22(G)(1), then reconvened and adjourned. No substantive decisions or public actions are listed on the agenda.
- Executive session for personnel matters under R.C. 121.22(G)(1)
- Possible new agenda item from executive session (no details provided)
- Next regular meeting scheduled for April 6, 2020, at 5:30 p.m. virtually
Legal and Contracts Committee Meeting - Archive
The Akron Public Schools Legal & Policy Committee is meeting to discuss and review proposed policy changes. The committee will consider revised graduation requirements, a new policy for students at risk of not qualifying for a diploma, criteria for graduation seals, and a bylaw on public participation at board meetings. These items are presented for a second reading prior to approval.
- Revised Policy 5460 - Graduation Requirements
- NEW Policy 5460.02 Students At Risk of Not Qualifying for a High School Diploma
- AG 5460D Criteria for Awarding the 'Graduation Seals'
- Bylaw po0169.1 Public Participation at Board Meetings
Previous Years Board Meetings - Boarddocs Imported meetings(2005-2026)
The Akron Board of Education held a special meeting to address the state-ordered closure of K-12 schools due to the COVID-19 emergency. The board voted to approve resolutions authorizing the Superintendent to maintain district operations and the Treasurer to pay specific employee classifications during the closure period. These actions were taken in response to an order from the Ohio Department of Health issued on March 14, 2020, which expired on April 3, 2020, unless extended.
- Resolution #20-040 authorizes the Superintendent to recall staff, execute continuity of educational services plans, and oversee property access during school closures.
- Resolution #20-041 authorizes the Treasurer to pay and the Superintendent to require work from specific employee classifications, including substitute teachers, custodial pool workers, and security staff.
- The meeting included an executive session to discuss employee compensation, legal disputes, and security arrangements under Ohio Revised Code 121.22.
Previous Years Board Meetings - Boarddocs Imported meetings(2005-2026)
The Akron Board of Education met for a regular meeting, approving the previous meeting's minutes and a series of personnel recommendations, including resignations, leaves, appointments, and supplemental contracts. The agenda was largely procedural, with no major policy decisions or public hearings.
- Approved minutes from the February 24, 2020 regular meeting.
- Accepted resignations/retirements of professional staff, including Jeannine Pittman, Bobbie Smith, Deborah Sturm, and Karen Christine White.
- Approved new hires: Taylor Irwin ($52,235.74) and Lesley Trendell ($76,665.74) as professional staff.
- Approved supplemental contracts for coaching and other roles, e.g., Douglas Stull as Varsity Track Coach at $5,292.12.
- Approved employment of substitute teachers at $121.35 per day.
Legal and Contracts Committee Meeting - Archive
The Akron Public Schools Legal and Policy Committee is meeting to discuss updates from NEOLA and to review revised policies on school safety and emergency situations. These policies are presented for a second reading prior to approval. The meeting is primarily discussion and review, with no final votes scheduled.
- Second reading of Revised Policy 8400 - School Safety
- Second reading of Revised Policy 8420 - Emergency Situations at Schools
- Discussion of NEOLA January 2020 policy update
Instructional Policy & Student Achievement Committee Meeting - Boarddocs Imported meetings(2020-2026)
The Instructional Policy Committee of Akron Public Schools is meeting to review minutes from the previous meeting, hear a student presentation on an eco-friendly alternative to Styrofoam lunch trays, and discuss graduation policy and seal. The agenda is mostly procedural, with the student presentation and graduation policy discussion being the substantive items.
- Review of minutes from February 18, 2020 meeting
- Student presentation on environmentally and economically friendly alternative to Styrofoam trays (Firestone CLC IB, Victoria Lorenzon)
- Discussion of Graduation Policy & Seal
Template Finance and Capital Management Committee Meeting - Boarddocs Imported meetings(2020-2026)
The Akron Public Schools Finance Committee is meeting to discuss overviews of federal funding programs (Title I, IDEA, CCAA, Title II) and to review appropriations and tax levy amounts and rates for the 2020-2021 fiscal year. The agenda includes roll call and adjournment, indicating a routine committee meeting.
- Discussion of Title I, IDEA, CCAA, and Title II program overviews
- Review of appropriations resolution for FY19 (attachment: appropriationresol FY19.pdf)
- Review of 2020-2021 fiscal year revised school cert tax levy, pending exemption (attachment: 2020.2021.FISCALYEAR.REVISED.SCHOOLS.CERTTAXLEVY.02.03.2020.PENDING EXEMPTION.pdf)
- Review of APS Rates and Amounts resolution (attachment: APS Rates and Amounts resolution.pdf)
Previous Years Board Meetings - Boarddocs Imported meetings(2005-2026)
The Akron Board of Education will hold its regular meeting on February 24, 2020, at 5:30 p.m. in the Board Room at the Sylvester Small Administration Building, 10 North Main Street. The agenda includes a presentation from Akron Promise founder Tom Ghinder on their work with Kenmore-Garfield High School students, approval of previous meeting minutes, and numerous personnel recommendations covering leaves, appointments, transfers, supplemental contracts, and support staff changes. The meeting is largely routine administrative business, with no major policy decisions or public hearings listed.
- Presentation by Akron Promise founder Tom Ghinder on status of work with Kenmore-Garfield High School students
- Approval of minutes from February 10, 2020 regular board meeting
- Appointment of De'Anna Caldwell-Edwards as Admin (JC 044) at $86,801.36 and Laura Kovach at $76,665.74
- Employment of Blaine Bruce as Administrative Specialist at $352.99/day
- Employment of Melinda Coman as Account Clerk IV at $39,174.28 annual salary
Legal and Contracts Committee Meeting - Archive
The Legal and Policy Committee is reviewing revised district policies before approval, including bylaws on public participation and policies on attendance, late arrival, food services, and school resource officers. It will also hold second readings on revised school safety and emergency situations policies. The meeting is a discussion and review step, not a final vote.
- Bylaw 0169.1 - Public Participation at Board Meetings
- Policy 5200 - Attendance
- Policy 5230 - Late Arrival and Early Dismissal
- Policy 8403 - School Resource Officer
- Policy 8500 - Food Services
Instructional Policy & Student Achievement Committee Meeting - Boarddocs Imported meetings(2020-2026)
The Instructional Policy Committee will review minutes from January 23, discuss the superintendent's recommendations and a consent agenda that includes several grants and a textbook adoption, and receive updates on the College & Career Academy, I PROMISE School, Family Resource Center, Equity Plan, and Get 2 School initiatives.
- $6,000 from Summit Education Initiative for FAFSA Encouragers
- $1,180 Martha Holden Jennings grant for Seurat project at Resnik CLC
- $2,664 grant for virtual reality studios at NIHF STEM HS
- $5,000 MAC Award for Leggett CLC initiative
- Textbook adoption for Spanish I, II, III
Previous Years Board Meetings - Boarddocs Imported meetings(2005-2026)
The Akron Board of Education held a regular meeting on February 10, 2020, to approve minutes from previous sessions and process routine personnel actions. The board consented to professional staff resignations, leaves of absence, and new appointments, including salary adjustments for degree changes. Additionally, the board reviewed a presentation on discipline data for grades K-3 and approved limited supplemental contracts for coaches and mentors.
- Approval of minutes from the January 27, 2020 Regular Meeting and January 24, 2020 Special Meeting
- Consent to resignations/retirements for professional staff members Asia Mason and Mark Mills effective June 5, 2020
- Appointment of new teacher Colton Brown (Art) at an annual salary of $40,091.90 effective February 6, 2020
- Salary adjustments for 34 professional staff members due to degree changes, effective January 20, 2020
- Presentation by Daniel Rambler on Discipline Data Update and Promising Practices for KG-3rd Grades
Joint Board of Review - Archive
The Akron Public Schools Joint Board of Review met to handle opening formalities, including the appointment of 2020 officers and discussion of meeting locations. The board approved the minutes from the November 18, 2019 meeting. The primary new business item was the review of a project contract with Hammond Construction for the Kenmore-Garfield Community Learning Center (CLC).
- Nomination and appointment of Chairperson and Vice Chairperson for 2020
- Approval of minutes from November 18, 2019
- Project contract with Hammond Construction for Kenmore-Garfield CLC
Template Finance and Capital Management Committee Meeting - Boarddocs Imported meetings(2020-2026)
The Akron Public Schools Finance Committee is meeting to discuss financial matters, including a review of appropriations, the school finance timeline, and a forecast discussion. They will also review the Ohio Auditor of State's Uniform School Accounting System user manual. The agenda is largely procedural, with no specific decisions or votes listed.
- Appropriations Review with FY19 final appropriation resolution and 2020 appropriations report
- School Finance Timeline discussion with 2020 fiscal calendar
- Forecast Discussion
- Ohio Auditor of State Uniform School Accounting System (USAS) user manual review
Legal and Contracts Committee Meeting - Archive
The Akron Public Schools Legal & Policy Committee is meeting to discuss and review several district policies, including a naming policy, emergency situations, school safety, and public participation at board meetings. They will also review the district's equity policy and receive updates on policy changes from NEOLA. No final votes are scheduled; this is a discussion and review session.
- Review of Policy 8420 - Emergency Situations at Schools
- Review of Policy 8400 - School Safety
- Discussion of Policy 0169.1 - Public Participation at Board Meetings (limits speakers to 3 per topic, 3 minutes each)
- Equity Policy (2260.04) review
- January 2020 policy updates from NEOLA (6 legal alerts, 14 policies, 7 admin guidelines)
Previous Years Board Meetings - Boarddocs Imported meetings(2005-2026)
The Akron Board of Education held a special meeting on January 24, 2020, primarily to recess into executive session to review and discuss a fact-finding report on contract language, salary, and fringe benefits with the Akron Education Association. No action was taken during the meeting, which was procedural and focused on the executive session discussion.
- Executive session to discuss fact-finding report on contract language, salary, and benefits with Akron Education Association
- Motion to recess into executive session passed (6 yes, 1 not present)
- Meeting held at Sylvester Small Administration Building, 10 North Main Street, Akron, Ohio
Instructional Policy & Student Achievement Committee Meeting - Boarddocs Imported meetings(2020-2026)
The Instructional Policy Committee will review minutes from December 3, 2019, and discuss the superintendent's recommendations, including a principal's retirement, a school safety grant, and business affairs items. They will also receive updates on the College & Career Academy, I PROMISE School, Family Resource Center, Equity Plan, arts in the community, and Buchtel CLC's master plan.
- Retirement of Cheryl Connolly, principal at Akron Early College, effective 6/20/20
- Ohio School Safety Grant for safety training and mental health resources
- Huntington National Bank partnership for Huntington Academy of Global Industry and Design at Buchtel CLC
- Corwin Press professional development for David Hill CLC staff, April 27-29, 2020
- Equity Plan update: recruiting six candidates for Alternative Resident Educator Licensure