Medina school board approves paving projects, names new Fenn principal

The Medina City Schools Board of Education approved nearly $385,000 in paving and maintenance projects, hired a new elementary principal and approved a new labor agreement during its May 19 meeting.

Among the largest actions taken by the board was approval of several summer paving projects across the district. The work includes repairs and paving at Claggett Middle School's playground area, staff parking lots at Ralph E. Waite and H.G. Blake elementary schools, pavement improvements near the Ken Dukes Stadium storage building and resurfacing of Medina High School's Lot D.

Facilities Director Ryan O'Cole said the high school project will complete paving of the final parking lot that has not been resurfaced since the building's renovation.

The board also approved an agreement for installation of ultraviolet filtration systems at the Medina Community Recreation Center pools. The project, which will be funded jointly by the school district and the city of Medina, is expected to improve water quality, reduce chlorine use and lower long-term maintenance costs.

In personnel action, the board approved the hiring of Taylor Brouse as principal of Sidney Fenn Elementary School effective Aug. 1. Brouse currently serves in the Keystone Local School District and was selected following an interview process that included district staff members.

Superintendent Aaron Sable said Brouse impressed interview committees with her leadership abilities and passion for education.

The board also approved a new three-year collective bargaining agreement with Ohio Association of Public School Employees Local 305. The agreement will run from July 1 through June 30, 2029.

Treasurer Dave Chambers reported the district remains in a strong financial position. Through April, district revenues exceeded $103 million, while the cash balance stood at approximately $56 million.

Chambers said the district continues to benefit from collections generated by its most recent operating levy and has earned more than $2 million in investment income.

Board members approved temporary appropriations for the 2026-27 fiscal year, allowing district departments to begin processing purchases and expenditures before the new fiscal year begins.

The board also approved new science curriculum materials for grades 4-8 and high school physical science courses beginning next school year. Additional approvals included overnight field trips, service agreements, personnel recommendations and the acceptance of donations supporting student programs and school activities.

Several board policies received a first reading, including updates related to artificial intelligence, student attendance, grading practices, personal communication devices and name, image and likeness opportunities for student-athletes.

During superintendent communications, the board recognized district retirees and honored Medina High School Athletic Director Todd Hodkey, who recently received the Northeast Ohio Interscholastic Athletic Administrators Association Athletic Director of the Year award.

Sable also discussed establishing quarterly board work sessions to allow more detailed discussions of district issues outside regular meetings. Board members expressed support for the concept, with scheduling details expected to be finalized at a later date.

The board also approved the Class of 2026 graduation resolution, contingent upon students completing all state and district graduation requirements.