Southern Local board of education approves forecast plan, rehires Cunningham

The Southern Local Board of Education voted Aug. 12 to create both three- and five-year financial forecasts for the state during its meeting at the Southern Local High School Media Center.

Treasurer Greg Sabbato was authorized to continue producing five-year forecasts even though the state recently reduced the requirement to three years. Board members said long-term planning is essential for fiscal health and responsible resource management. The five-year forecast, which will include the three-year version, will be presented to the board twice annually starting in fiscal year 2027. The three-year forecast will continue to be filed with the Ohio Department of Education and Workforce.

The resolution will remain in effect until amended or rescinded by the board.

In other action, Superintendent Tom Cunningham received a two-year contract extension as a retire-rehire. Officials said a search for his replacement will continue, but the move saves the district money while ensuring continuity. Cunningham, who previously served as an elementary principal, said he was grateful for the opportunity to continue serving.

Personnel moves included:

— A continuing contract for assistant treasurer Julie Dowling.

— A one-year teaching contract for Jennifer Hitt, elementary art.

— Approval of substitute teachers Colton Novak, Laurie Ronshak, Jennifer Timms and Conner Lewis; paraprofessional Kristina Napierkowski; custodian Robert Mike Jarvis; and full-time substitute Natasha Grimm.

— Acceptance of resignations from junior high football coach Rich Sloan and boys golf coach Jimmy Malone.

— Supplemental contracts for coaches and advisors, including Holly Davis, Gerard Grimm, Zac Almy, Jimmy Malone, Fernando Dechellis, Dan Spencer, Dennis Bowers, Mike Skrinjar, Thomas Terdina and Courtland Kellogg.

— Volunteer approval for Logan Redfern, cross country, and Alleigh Ingledue, volleyball.

The board also approved a staffing agreement with the Jefferson County Educational Service Center and welcomed new Food Service Director Tom Best.

Other business included:

— Hearing parent concerns from Julie Utt about outdated junior high football uniforms; Athletic Director Bob Shansky said new equipment would be ordered.

— Hearing teacher Nancy Sakely’s concerns about speeding near the school; officials said they contacted ODOT and are reviewing options.

— Receiving updates from district officials on building improvements, playground needs, technology upgrades and preparations for the Sept. 2 school opening.

— Donating $250 to the Southern Local Touchdown Club.

— Approving the fifth grade field trip to Camp Fitch Nov. 12–14.

— Approving stipends for Josh Manist and Sebastian Bach for setting up the network in the new welding lab at Utica Shale Academy. Cunningham added that career exploration blocks are being considered for the lab.

— Agreeing to provide free admission to all district students for home athletic events, with elementary students required to be accompanied by an adult.

The next regular meeting will be held at 6 p.m. Sept. 9 at the SLHS Media Center.