PHOTO BY INDIA KENNER | THE VILLAGE REPORTER
READY TO WORK … newly sworn-in members, Christian Appel, Ashley Reed, and David Wehrle, during the annual organizational meeting held January 12, 2026, in the district’s Media Center library.
By: India Kenner
THE VILLAGE REPORTER
india@thevillagereporter.com
The Edon Northwest Local School District Board of Education convened its annual organizational meeting on Monday, January 12, 2026, at the John and Marilyn Toner Media Center, welcoming a new member and reaffirming its leadership team before transitioning into regular business.
The meeting opened at 5:00 p.m. with the Pledge of Allegiance and roll call. Board members present included President Cody Best, Christian Appel (newly elected and sworn in), Patty Eicher, Ashley Reed, and David Wehrle.
Also attending were Superintendent Anthony Stevens, K-6 Principal Jennifer Ripke, 7-12 Principal Kayla Lapham, Treasurer Deborah Nester, several district staff members, and community residents.
Following opening procedures, the board elected officers for the year. Cody Best was reelected as Board President, and Ashley Reed was chosen as Vice President.
The board also discussed and assigned committee roles, reviewed upcoming meeting dates, and approved plans to amend the 2026 calendar by shifting the August meeting from the 10th to the 13th (a Thursday).
Motion to approve the organizational action items was made by Reed and seconded by Eicher.
The organizational portion adjourned at 5:15 p.m., with the motion made by Eicher and seconded by Reed.
The regular session began immediately at 5:30 p.m. The board approved the consent agenda by unanimous vote, including minutes from the December 15, 2025, regular meeting, December 2025 financial reports, an amended certificate request from the county auditor, December donations, and substitute teacher lists from the Northwest Ohio Educational Service Center. The motion to approve was made by Eicher and seconded by Reed.
In recognition of January as School Board Recognition Month, Superintendent Stevens presented certificates to all board members, expressing appreciation for their service.
Treasurer Deborah Nester delivered the financial report. Elementary Principal Jennifer Ripke shared highlights, noting students’ excitement over the new book vending machine and announcing that two Edon students will represent the district at an upcoming Spelling Bee hosted at Hilltop.
High School Principal Kayla Lapham reported only two cell phone violations since the implementation of the new policy, indicating strong compliance.
Superintendent Stevens provided updates in his report, stating that current enrollment stands at 554 students.
He noted positive momentum in the wrestling program, successful collaboration with Montpelier schools, and the recent purchase of a district van.
The district plans to auction off unused vehicles, including a driver’s education vehicle, four county vehicles, and a van, in the spring. Stevens also highlighted the immediate need for a second-shift custodial substitute.
Under new business, the board unanimously approved a resolution accepting tax amounts and rates as determined by the Budget Commission, authorizing the necessary levies and certifying them to the county auditor.
They also renewed the memorandum of understanding (MOU) with the Village of Edon for the School Resource Officer (SRO) program, extending the partnership from July 1, 2026, through June 30, 2029.
Stevens mentioned the district’s interest in potentially purchasing a dump truck, which will be considered further.
The meeting concluded at 6:25 p.m. with approval of reports and action items, followed by adjournment on a motion by Reed, seconded by Eicher.
The next regular meeting of the Edon Northwest Local Board of Education is scheduled for Monday, February 9, 2026, at 5:30 p.m.