Ridgemont Superintendent Sally Henrick addressed the board of education during the district’s first virtual meeting Thursday evening regarding the ways that she has observed students continue their learning despite the school shutdown during the pandemic.
“We live in an amazing community where amazing things happen every day,” she said.
“Things might not be how we envision they should be, however, when we use our imagination great things can happen.
“Our students have used their imaginations to create fantastic works of art and music and also to make protective safety gear. Our students are also learning how to set their own daily schedules to complete assignments.
“I am also thankful for our parents and caregivers for supporting your children. I realize that raising children isn’t an easy task, but you are doing a wonderful job.”
She also related that the Ridgemont staff members have accomplished a great deal during this unusual time
“Next week is teacher and staff appreciation week and I truly appreciate all that our teachers and staff have done and continue to do during this pandemic. You are amazing.”
Despite the school building being closed for classes through the end of the school year, Henrick said staff members can be reached by calling the school’s welcome center, and (937) 354-2141, or superintendent’s office, (937) 354-2441.
Regular updates also are provided on the district’s website, www.ridgemont.k12.oh.us, along with Facebook and Twitter sites.
The board approved the list of Class of 2020 members who will graduate May 29, provided all requirements set forth by the local and state boards of education have been met:
Members also approved the extension of open enrollment deadline for the 2020-21 school year to June 30. Applications were mailed out in early February and are available on the district’s website
Direct questions to Sandy Overly at 937-354-2441 or e-mail her at sandy.overly.
Members also began using a new software called BoardDocs for Board agendas and minutes that can be accessed via the district’s website.
In personnel matters, the board accepted the resignation from Brandon Watkins, junior high teacher, effective the end of the 2019-20 contract.
The board also approved several memorandums of understanding relating to the pandemic, including: for distance learning through the end of the school year; maintaining current teacher evaluations and current contracts until the 2020-2021 school year.
They also approved a resolution allowing the superintendent and treasurer to take any and all actions necessary to maintain educational programming for students and provide for the safety of all students and staff during COVID-19.
In other action, the board:
• approved calendar D for the 2020-21 school year and the 260-Day Employee Holiday Calendar for the 2020-2021 school year;
• approved the Memorandum of Understandings for College Credit Plus for Bowling Green State University and Rhodes State College and the cost of credit recovery for students for the amount of $150 per class for the 2020-21 school year (including the summer of 2020);
• approved agreements with The Ohio State University Lima Campus to partner in student teacher experience,
• approved optional student accident insurance,
• approved a five-year Internet Access Service Agreement with WOCO, effective July 1;
• approved an interdistrict contract with Midwest Regional Educational Service Center, for the 2020-2021 school year; and
• accepted the following donations and took the time to thank the donors listed below for their generosity to the district — Soroptimist of Kenton/Hardin County for donation of kits; Mt. Victory/Dudley School Alumni’s donation of bench for land lab outside classroom area, and Jim Moore for making the bench donation possible.