The Benjamin Logan Board of Education has recently approved a crucial update to the Student Handbook concerning cell phone usage, marking a significant step towards improving student engagement and reducing classroom distractions. This change aligns with Ohio state requirements that mandate all schools establish policies to regulate cell phone use during school hours by July 1, 2025. The initiative, backed by Governor Mike DeWine and Lt. Governor Jon Husted, is designed to minimize distractions and enhance the learning environment.
To aid schools in developing their policies, the Ohio Department of Education and Workforce provided a Model Cell Phones in Schools Policy, which Benjamin Logan School Leaders have utilized to craft a policy that caters to both state regulations and the needs of their students. The district’s commitment to this policy reflects its dedication to fostering a productive educational setting, with expectations that reduced cell phone distractions will lead to better academic performance and increased student engagement.
In addition to the new cell phone policy, the Board discussed updates in other areas. The Transportation staff reviewed current challenges and improvements, highlighting that route adjustments and the absorption of two routes would save the district approximately $125,000 in bus maintenance and driver costs. Furthermore, the district managed to fill four vacant positions with just one new full-time driver.
Superintendent John Scheu updated the Board on the Raider Care program, which operates from 3:15 to 5:30 PM and has been running on a cash balance despite a deficit for the past four years. With no current applicants for the open position, which has been reposted at $20 per hour, the district may need to increase the hourly rate to attract candidates, as the program requires a minimum of two staff members.
The Board approved several goals for the 2024-2025 school year, including achieving a 4.5 or better overall rating on the Ohio School Report Card, ending the fiscal year 2025 with revenues exceeding expenditures, and ensuring 100% completion of Science of Reading Certification by June 30, 2025. Other goals include minimizing interruptions to maximize student learning and enhancing communication with community stakeholders.
Personnel changes included the approval of Jeffrey Fox as a Custodian on a one-year limited contract, and several individuals for Detention, Saturday School, and Study Tables. The Board also approved various substitutes for the 2024-2025 school year, contingent on completing employment requirements. Additionally, the resignation of Melissa Burgess from her role as Cheer Coach Football JV HS and the appointment of Gretchen Powell as Technology Assistant MS were both approved.
The Board accepted notable donations for weight room improvements, including $8,000 from the BL Athletic Booster, $14,000 from the BL Football Program, and an anonymous $14,000 donation for flooring, as well as equipment valued at $750 donated by Rod Bair.
The next Board meeting is scheduled for September 16, 2024, at 6:00 PM.
