Benjamin Logan Board of Education Discusses Key Approvals and Updates at February Meeting

The Benjamin Logan Board of Education convened for its regular monthly meeting, addressing a range of significant topics, including staff appointments, athletic association memberships, curriculum enhancements, and student achievements.

OHSAA Membership Approved
The board unanimously passed a resolution authorizing the district's membership in the Ohio High School Athletic Association (OHSAA) for the 2025-2026 school year, reaffirming its commitment to student athletics and extracurricular programs.

Midwest Regional ESC Contract Renewed
The board approved a comprehensive contract with the Midwest Regional Educational Service Center (ESC) for the 2024-2025 school year. The contract includes essential purchased services such as curriculum and school improvement initiatives, student services administration, speech therapy, physical therapy, special education support, and professional learning systems.

​Salary Placement and Staff Updates
Samantha Schaffner Gessler was appointed as the new Benjamin Logan Middle School counselor under a one-year limited contract, effective August 1, 2025. Her salary placement was specified at Step 12-MA on the district’s salary schedule.
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Student Achievements Recognized
The board honored Seniors of the Month, including Taytum Daniels and Kameron Lockwood for January, and Kate Gulick and Dylan Vance for February.

​Administrative Reports Highlight Achievements
Superintendent John Scheu discussed the anticipated results of the biennium budget by early summer and commended Career Technical Education programs for their recent presentations. Holly Barr, principal of Benjamin Logan Elementary School, highlighted the success of community events like the Father/Daughter and Mother/Son dances, as well as the BLES Science Fair and Open House. Todd Shadley, middle school principal, updated the board on athletic achievements and collaborative curriculum improvements. Annette Alatorre, high school principal, reported that the boys' and girls' wrestling teams are advancing to districts, while the boys' bowling team is headed to the state championship.

Financial Reports and Grant Approvals
The board approved financial reports for January and February 2025 and accepted multiple grants, including three from Logan County Electric Co-op and others from the Ohio Beef Council, Logan County Cattle Association, and NASSP Student Service Grant.

Personnel Updates

• Resignations: Teacher Scott LeVan (effective June 1, 2025) and Bus Driver Kary Henry (effective January 31, 2025).
• New Hires: Bus drivers Mel Roberts and Ashlee Phillips; teacher Ronald (Jamie) Gill, a 2020 Benjamin Logan graduate; and various substitute staff members.
• Change of Assignment: Erica Caudill to Head Cook, effective March 3, 2025.

Athletic and Supplemental Contracts Approved
Coaches for baseball, softball, track, and weight room assistant coordinator positions were confirmed for the upcoming seasons.

Open Enrollment and New Courses
The board approved inter-district and intra-district open enrollment policies and new high school courses for the 2025-2026 academic year. The course selection handbook for grades 9-12 and the 2026-2027 school calendar were also approved.

International Opportunities for Students
The Rotary Youth Exchange (RYE) student for the 2025-2026 school year, Siina Grondahl from Finland, was approved along with host families. Additionally, a student trip to Montreal and Quebec, led by Shelly Lane, was sanctioned for June 2026.

Policy Updates Reviewed
The board conducted a first reading of Policy Update 43.2, covering topics such as drug-free workplace requirements, college credit programs, special education, graduation requirements, student health and well-being, vendor relations, and food services, among others.

The Benjamin Logan Board of Education will continue addressing key educational initiatives and policy updates at upcoming meetings.