The Galion City School District Board of Education met on Tuesday, February 18, to discuss district initiatives, recognize students and staff for outstanding character, approve new leadership in food services, and accept community donations. The meeting also addressed policy updates and upcoming schedule changes, reflecting the district’s ongoing efforts to enhance student experiences and educational opportunities.
Honoring Integrity in Students and Staff
The Galion City School District Board of Education met on Tuesday, February 18, to recognize outstanding students and staff who embody the Portrait of a Tiger trait, Person of Integrity. These individuals were commended for their honesty, responsibility, and strong moral character, serving as role models within the school community. Their commitment to ethical decision-making, leadership, and positive influence has helped strengthen the school environment.
Student Honorees:
- Kenzington Steele – Kindergarten
- Ezekiel Hedrick – 3rd Grade
- Maddox Zapata – 7th Grade
- Skyler Bucher – 11th Grade
Staff Honorees:
- Cindy Conner – Primary School
- Rebecca Baldy – Intermediate School
- Shelly Barton – Middle School
- Brian Kentosh – High School
The Board emphasized the importance of instilling strong moral values in students from a young age, fostering a culture of integrity that prepares them for future success both academically and personally. The recipients of this award serve as an inspiration to their peers, demonstrating the power of good character in education and beyond.
Leadership in Food Services
The Board officially approved the hiring of Dawn Hunter as the new Food Service Director. Ms. Hunter, a longtime district employee, has held multiple roles within Galion Schools and is eager to continue providing high-quality meal services to students. Her focus will be on ensuring nutritious meal options, streamlining service efficiency, and incorporating student feedback into menu planning.
Additionally, the Board approved appointments for spring sports coaches, substitute teachers, and substitute bus drivers, ensuring the district is well-staffed for the upcoming season. The addition of these staff members will help support students in both their academic and extracurricular endeavors, reinforcing the district’s commitment to well-rounded development.
Community Contributions
The Board acknowledged two major financial contributions that will directly benefit students and enhance school programs. These generous donations highlight the strong community support for Galion schools.
- Galion Booster Club contributed $5,000 to purchase new uniforms for baseball, wrestling, volleyball, and girls’ tennis teams, ensuring student-athletes have the proper gear to proudly represent their school. New uniforms not only improve team morale but also promote school spirit and unity among athletes.
- Elks Lodge #119 donated $500 to support Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS) and STAR rewards, programs that encourage and recognize students’ positive behavior and academic achievements. This funding will go toward providing incentives for students who demonstrate excellence in character, work ethic, and citizenship.
Key Board Approvals and Policy Updates
The Board approved several important items affecting the district’s future operations, reinforcing its commitment to maintaining high educational and operational standards.
- Open Enrollment and OHSAA Membership: The district will continue to participate in open enrollment and remain a member of the Ohio High School Athletic Association (OHSAA) for the 2025-26 school year, ensuring students have access to diverse learning opportunities and competitive sports programs.
- 2025-26 Galion High School Course Offering Guide: Approval of the curriculum guide ensures a diverse range of academic opportunities for students. New elective courses and advanced placement opportunities are among the highlights of the updated course offerings.
- GEA Sick Leave Donation System: A Memorandum of Understanding was approved for a system allowing staff members to donate sick leave to colleagues in need. This initiative supports employees experiencing medical emergencies or unforeseen circumstances, fostering a collaborative and compassionate work environment.
- Board Committee Restructuring: The Board passed a resolution to convert Board Committees into Superintendent Committees, streamlining decision-making processes and ensuring more efficient communication between district leadership and stakeholders.
- Special Education Model Policies and Procedures: Adoption of updated policies released by the Ohio Department of Education and Workforce (DEW) to align with state standards. These policies aim to enhance the delivery of special education services, ensuring that students receive the necessary support tailored to their individual needs.
Rescheduled March Meeting
The March 18 Board of Education meeting has been rescheduled to Wednesday, March 5, at 6:30 PM in the Middle School Media Center. The meeting will include discussions on budget allocations, curriculum enhancements, and upcoming district initiatives. Parents, students, and community members are encouraged to attend to stay informed on district affairs.
For further updates on Board meetings and district news, visit galionschools.org or contact the Board of Education office at 419-468-3432.
Source: Galion City Schools; Photo: Creative Commons License
