School Board Update
Pleasant Local Schools
Regular Board Meeting, April 22, 2024
Board President Update
Board President Vicki Kimmel commended the district for its commitment to academic excellence and inclusion, highlighting two significant recognitions from the Ohio Department of Education. Notably, Pleasant Elementary School was named a Purple Star School for its support of military-connected students and families. Additionally, both Pleasant Elementary and Middle Schools received the Momentum Award for exceeding educational standards. Mrs. Kimmel noted that these awards reflect the hard work of our teachers, staff, and students in fostering an inclusive and high-performing educational environment.
Superintendent Update
Superintendent Tom McDonnell provided an update on recent district activities, starting with our participation in a job fair at Marion Technical College to recruit potential candidates for open staff positions. Additionally, Mr. McDonnell highlighted the success of several spring events, including the PES Carnival, organized by the PTO, and the Spring Gala, which showcased school pride and garnered broad support for our athletic programs. He also commended our student representatives who attended the Marion Youth Leadership Graduation held at Tri-Rivers, demonstrating their dedication and leadership to the Pleasant community.
Looking ahead, Mr. McDonnell noted the upcoming Marion County National Honor Society Induction on April 25th where 37 PHS students will be honored.
Marion Technical College Job Fair
PES Carnival!
Marion Youth Leadership Graduation
Treasurer Report
Treasurer James Corbeil reported that the district has received the final property tax settlement, bringing the total general balance to just over $7.7 million. This settlement has increased the district’s true days cash balance (TDCB) to approximately 187 days, reflecting the duration the district could operate if revenue ceased. Typically, our cash balances peak in March and July due to tax settlement revenue, which sustains operations in the remaining months.
In addition to our general funds, Pleasant manages various other accounts, including bonds (approximately $2 million annually), permanent improvements/capital projects, food service, memorial funds, principals' funds, and local/state/federal funds, among others.
This fiscal year, PLSD has seen a significant increase in interest income from investments, totaling approximately $466,000. This figure is notably higher than the annual average of $53,000 observed from FY13 to FY22. While exceptional, it's not expected to be repeated in future financial forecasts.
Despite no cuts in federal interest rates this year, PLSD's variable interest rates have decreased by 20 basis points in money market accounts. In response, the district is taking strategic steps to increase investments in mid-term non-callable securities. Mr. Corbeil continues to implement careful financial management practices to ensure the effective management and security of our resources.
Mr. Corbeil will present the district’s next 5-year forecast update at the next Board of Education meeting (May 20).
Student Services Update
Shelly Dason, Director of Student Services, shared that there is just one general education seat open at Bitty Spartan Preschool for the 2024/2025 school year.
Additionally, Mrs. Dason is coordinating a teacher pathway program in partnership with TRCC, MTC, and YWCA, offering credentialing and practical learning experiences. She will also represent Pleasant as the Title IX Coordinator at a BASA webinar discussing the 2024 Title IX Regulations, with plans to brief the A-team on key outcomes.
Academic Update Update
Elementary Principal Travis Issler shared that the school has successfully completed the English Language Arts Testing and is now gearing up for the upcoming math assessments. Mr. Issler also noted that he issued a survey to all teachers to shape future professional development opportunities better. Additionally, the second round of the "Observe Me" peer observation cycles has been completed, which continues to enhance teaching skills and collaborative learning among the staff.
The team from Graphic Packaging visited PES to deliver an educational presentation on recycling. They also gifted saplings to the students, reinforcing lessons on environmental stewardship. Looking ahead, PES is preparing for the Kindergarten Screening scheduled for May 3rd at the Cornerstone Alliance church, an important event for welcoming prospective students and their families.
Director of Secondary Education Mickey Malcom invited the Board and community to attend the Band and Choir’s end-of-year performances on April 30th and May 2nd, respectively. Additionally, Pleasant students recently participated in the MTC Math Challenge on May 3rd, continuing their tradition of achieving high marks.
In further exciting news, Mr. Malcom shared that PMS’ robotics students have taken part in a global challenge in Texas--the school looks forward to hearing of their results. The week of May 13th will be eventful, with 5th graders heading to camp and 8th graders embarking on their annual trip to Washington D.C. Simultaneously, the 8th Grade Beautification Day is set for May 13th.
Lastly, in recognition of Administrative Professionals Day on April 24th, Mr. Malcolm extended special thanks to Mrs. Probst, Mrs. Shaffer, and Mrs. Robinson for their contributions to the school community.
High School Principal Steve Ringer began by congratulating Kyle Strzelecki on his appointment as the new Assistant Principal at River Valley. In addition, he noted that several PHS students had the opportunity to share their educational experiences at Pleasant during a presentation at the Kiwanis Club.
In academic honors, Maura Murphy was recognized as the county winner of the prestigious Franklin B. Walter Award. On April 25th, 37 students will be inducted into the Marion County National Honor Society in a ceremony that acknowledges their academic excellence and leadership. The school also looks forward to hosting the Harry Alexander Music Festival on May 7th.
Mr. Ringer also noted that preparations are underway to celebrate the class of 2024 with a Senior Breakfast, Assembly, Parade, and concluding with gradation at the end of May.
Lastly, Mr. Ringer expressed a special thanks to Kris Webb on Administrative Professionals Day for her exceptional support during the busiest times of the school year.
Technology Update
Technology Coordinator Vern Kollas reported a successful first week of testing support, highlighting rapid technology repairs and device provisions that ensured smooth operations. He shared with the Board that a proposal is being prepared to request new Chromebooks for the next academic year.
He also noted that the district website is pending board approval to be renewed. This upgrade will enhance the site’s functionality and user experience for students, parents, and staff.
Operations Update
Operations Coordinator Josh Nease provided updates on recent infrastructure improvements at the district's facilities. These enhancements include roof replacement and landscaping work aimed at maintaining and beautifying the school grounds. Despite challenging weather conditions, efforts to improve and preserve our educational environment continue.
Athletics Update
Athletics Director Mike Lindsey noted that the spring sports season began with challenging rainy conditions. Despite the weather, he expressed optimism about the spring Spartan athletes. Looking ahead, the department is excited to introduce a new full-time trainer starting in July, which will enhance support for all our athletic teams.
Additionally, Mr. Linsdsey noted that the Spring Sports Gala was a success. Mike extended his gratitude to everyone involved in organizing and participating in the gala. He also announced that the inaugural Pleasant Athletic Hall of Fame class will be honored in the fall of 2024.
Donations
The Board appreciates these community members and organizations for their generous donations to our school community.
The following people donated to the Craig Reynolds Memorial Fund, dedicated to purchasing automated external defibrillators (AEDs) and training staff on their use:
First Baptist Church
Richard & Marsha Hirsh
Lawrence & Kathy Mattix
Pamela Cusick
Paula Riggs
Edward & Mary Shafer
Brian & Sharon Kinnick
David Scowden & Heather Columber
Jeremy & Melinda Sorg
Carl & Megan Queen
Kaleen Sarver
Stifel Investments
Jeremy & Melinda Sorg
Steve & Cynthia Deweber
Thank you to Maxline Express, LLC for their generous donation to help the Robotics Club attend the 2024 World Competition.
Board of Education
Vicki Kimmel, President
Bret Bowers, Vice President
Mike Carroll
Eric Queen
Gary Sims
740-389-4476
PLEASANT LOCAL SCHOOLS
1117 Owens Road West | Marion, OH 43302
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