By: Jacob Kessler
THE VILLAGE REPORTER
jacob@thevillagereporter.com
The Fayette Local Board of Education met for its regular session on Monday, October 20, 2025. The meeting began at 6:30 p.m. with the Pledge of Allegiance, followed by the approval of minutes and movement into reports and updates.
The superintendent opened by explaining that the district’s annual lockdown drill had been completed by the School Resource Officer.
It was also announced that the Hall of Fame Committee has selected this year’s recipient, who will be recognized during the Eagle Hatch event.
National Bus Safety Week began on October 20, with inspections scheduled to take place throughout the week. In addition, it was noted that area leaders continue to work with state lawmakers on finding a fair and sustainable tax solution to help support local entities.
The treasurer followed with her report, outlining upcoming expenditures for equipment that has reached the end of its service life.
These include a pump and lift station for $37,690.78, a Bogen Unit for $49,574.07, a Simplex fire panel for approximately $77,200, and a heat exchange unit for $12,000.
The 2025 Record Disposal RC-3 certificate has been completed and will be sent to the Ohio History Connection for approval. It was also noted that the district’s savings account interest rate currently sits at 4.51%, down slightly from July.
The high school principal then reported on several student and extracurricular activities. The National Honor Society recently hosted a blood drive, and the Pancake and Sausage Supper was scheduled for October 21, with proceeds benefiting student activities. The band held a concert on October 13 featuring performances from 6th-grade students for the first time.
FFA members were active with displays at the Fulton County Fair and trap shooting, and they are preparing to attend the National FFA Convention at the end of the month.
Volleyball tournaments began on October 15, golf finished 6th in the league, and the cross-country team had a strong season. The girls’ team won the BBC Championship, while both junior high and high school boys placed second. Individual top finishes came from Addison Schang, Blake Kessler, and Ethan Lee, who each finished first in their races.
The elementary principal reported that benchmark testing discussions have taken place with teachers, and evaluations are underway.
Fall third-grade ELA testing will begin the week of October 27. An online fundraiser was also held to support elementary student activities, and Augie is preparing for his annual handler training evaluation.
Financial matters followed with the board approving the financial report for September 2025, along with the Certificate of Records Disposal.
Donations accepted included $1,200 from Butler Miller Service Co. for Pancake and Sausage Supper supplies, $20 from Linda Martin for the Elementary Fundraiser, and $1,600 from Fulton County Pork Producers for FFA activities.
Personnel items included approval of the monthly substitute list for teachers and paraprofessionals, rescinding several previous motions, and approving a number of coaching and mentoring positions.
These included Andrea Jacobs as a mentor and Darrell Randall as a volunteer cross-country coach. Multiple coaching assignments were also approved for the upcoming season, pending proper certifications and background checks.
The board then moved on to agreements and policies. A service agreement with Muskingum Valley ESC for a Driver’s Ed Record Keeper was approved, as well as an agreement with Jeff Keefer for snow removal and salting.
Policy updates through Neola Volume 44 Number 1 and a resolution for Special Education Model Policies and Procedures were also approved.
The final item of the evening was the approval of student travel for the National FFA Convention, which will take place October 30 through November 1 in Indianapolis, Indiana. The meeting was then adjourned at 6:53 p.m.