Hello Worthington! Here's your recap of what happened at December 8th's Board of Education meeting. Below are brief summaries of the most significant discussions. For those interested in the full details, we've included links to longer articles where appropriate.
Worthington Education Foundation Awards $25k in Grants
The Worthington Education Foundation announced 13 grant recipients from 10 Worthington schools, totaling $25,041 in funding for innovative educational projects.
The largest award—$8,000—went to McCord Middle School for transforming a 7,000+ square foot courtyard into a community learning space. Worthingway Middle School received $5,500 for a collaborative student mural project. Other grants support sensory integration tools, audiobook collections, mental health resources, and an inclusive peer group program at Thomas Worthington called Cardinal Crew.
The WEF's annual gala fundraiser is scheduled for February 6, 2026 at Brookside Golf & Country Club.
Jennifer Best Celebrated After 24 Years on Board
The meeting served as a farewell celebration for Jennifer Best, who is concluding 24 years of service on the Worthington Schools Board of Education. Board members, administrators, and community members gathered to honor her legacy of advocacy, transparency, and dedication to public education.
Superintendent Dr. Trent Bowers highlighted her role in creating new schools and programs—including Worthington Kilbourne High School, the IB program, and All Day Kindergarten—as well as her advocacy for school safety and transparent financial reporting. Treasurer TJ Cusick noted that approximately 27,957 students have attended Worthington schools during her tenure.
Fellow board members praised her tireless advocacy at the state level, her willingness to mentor new board members, and her consistent presence at community events. Best will be succeeded by newly elected board member Sheena Costa Flowers at the January 5 organizational meeting.
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In Other News
Voucher lawsuit update: Board members reported that the coalition of districts challenging Ohio's EdChoice voucher program is seeking an injunction to halt payments. More districts, including rural ones, continue to join the lawsuit.
Varsity assistant coaches discussed: The Supplemental Program Advisory Committee is evaluating whether to reinstate varsity assistant coach positions, which were eliminated several years ago. No decisions have been made.
Appropriations approved: The board approved appropriations modifications including an additional $5.5 million in the building fund and the $25,041 from WEF grants.
President Pro Tem appointed: Board President Kelli Davis was appointed president pro tem to preside over the January 5, 2026 organizational meeting until a new president is elected.
Energy project transfer: The board approved a transfer from the general fund to the debt service fund related to an energy conservation project completed about 10 years ago.
Key Upcoming Dates
- January 5, 2026: Organizational meeting for 2026 and swearing-in of new board member Sheena Costa Flowers
- February 6, 2026: Worthington Education Foundation annual gala at Brookside Golf & Country Club
- June 5, 2026: Proposed goal-setting work session
- July 10, 2026 (7:00 a.m.): Proposed summer morning meeting
Thanks for reading this summary of the Worthington Board of Education meeting. You can find board meeting schedules, contact information, and more on the Worthington Board of Education website or watch meeting recordings on their YouTube channel.