Marlington board reviews staffing, esports and league changes

The Marlington Local School District Board of Education met March 12, with Superintendent Dan Swisher providing a district update that focused on staffing, student programs and upcoming changes.

Swisher said Transportation Coordinator Sheri Sickles is retiring, creating an important vacancy. Interviews are underway, with candidates narrowed. He also expects a full list of retirements and resignations by May or June and said staffing levels for the 2026-27 school year will continue to be evaluated. The district aims to keep class sizes at 25 students or fewer, with staffing expected to remain stable at the middle and high school levels but possible changes at the elementary level.

Swisher also said the district is exploring esports as a new student offering. He noted the program could support areas such as STEAM education, career exploration, skill development and student engagement.

He updated the board on the current legislative landscape, including discussions around property taxes, and announced that Rick Baxter of the Alliance Chamber of Commerce will attend an April meeting. Swisher also said the Ohio Association of Public School Employees is expected to begin negotiations around March 23.

The board recognized student success at the Greater Canton Council of Teachers of Mathematics tournament held March 7 at Massillon High School. Marlington seventh-graders Braylee Ingledue, Grace Krabill and Michael Lepsesty placed first as a team, while sixth-grader Arabella Lloyd earned first place in mental computation. Additional students earned second- and third-place finishes.

Board members invited public input regarding the possible re-employment of Shawn Dillon and Curt Hamilton during their service retirement. No action was taken.

In athletics, the board approved terminating its membership in the Eastern Buckeye Athletic Conference in two years and joining a new interscholastic athletic conference beginning in the 2028-29 school year. The new league will include schools from Carroll, Stark and Tuscarawas counties.

In financial matters, the board approved a resolution accepting tax rates and amounts from the Stark County auditor, with total estimated levy yields of $12,245,766, including $11,599,133 for the general fund and $646,633 for permanent improvements. The board also approved filing a complaint regarding the valuation of a State Street West property in Alliance that recently sold for more than double its previous assessed value.

The board approved the acceptance of an exchange student, Ludovico Ercole of Italy, for the 2026-27 school year, and reviewed several board policies on first reading.

Personnel items included extending administrative contracts for principals Kathleen Mort, Ashley Weber and Greg Travis Jr. through July 31, 2029.

Students Andrew Hartzler and Natalie Price were recognized as High School Elk Students of the Month.

The board entered executive session to consider the purchase of property. No action was taken.

The next meeting is scheduled for 6 p.m. April 7 at Marlington High School.