Fairless board reviews NIL guidebook, fills board vacancy

Fairless Athletic Director Zach Michel presented a proposal to the Fairless Local Board of Education for a name, image and likeness guidebook, noting the Ohio School Boards Association has approved policy principles related to NIL.

“A guidebook is available so the community, parents and students understand the rules,” Superintendent Mike Hearn said. “It allows athletes to make money from brands based on three parts — name, image and likeness — that make up their personal identity and public presence.”

The board acknowledged the resignation of Dr. Jody Seward, effective Nov. 20. After approving a resolution, the board appointed Catherine Soehnlen to fill the vacancy from Dec. 1 through Dec. 31. Soehnlen, who was elected Nov. 4, will take the oath of office in January to begin a four-year term.

In other business, the board entered into an agreement with Vasco Asphalt Co. of Massillon to add drainage and replace a section of the elementary school parking lot at an estimated cost of $73,518 and to crack fill, reseal and restripe the middle school parking lot at an estimated cost of $17,527.

The board renewed the district’s annual membership with the Ohio School Boards Association, including legal assistance, at a cost of $7,686.

Members discussed the possible replacement of the visitors grandstand and stadium lights. Other potential summer projects included an asphalt maintenance plan, stadium sound system and stadium fencing. No action was taken.

The board held a public hearing on the 2026-27 school calendar and later approved it. The first day for students will be Aug. 19. Winter break will run from Dec. 21-31, spring break from March 22-29 and the last day for students will be May 27, 2027.

Personnel actions included approving Tayler McGonagle as a certified substitute teacher at $110 per day, effective Jan. 5, 2026 and Amanda Taylor as a classified substitute, effective Nov. 24.

The board approved Carol Tressel as second-grade team leader, effective Dec. 4, at a prorated amount of $1,122.

Approval was given for one-year temporary certified substitute teachers, as needed, including Elizabeth Balizer, effective Nov. 14, and Gracie Ashton, effective Dec. 8. Both are Fairless High School graduates.

The board rescinded the supplemental contract of Daniel Frazee, assistant softball coach, effective Dec. 3.

Indoor track and volunteer coaches for the 2025-26 school year were approved, including Olivia Widder, Jessica Swihart, John Norman and Shawn Robinson.

The board also approved one-year supplemental contracts for Jennifer Holland-Natoli and Kristine Twigg as spring drama assistants.

Board member Justin Henry was appointed president pro tem.

The organizational, budget and regular board meetings will be held Jan. 8 at 6:15 p.m. at Fairless High School, 800 Seventh St. SE in Brewster.