C’view supt. commends shutdown efforts

SCOTT TRUXELL/independent writer

CONVOY — The Crestview Local Board of Education wasted no time Monday, working through a light March meeting agenda in just 12 minutes o.

The meeting was moved to the elementary cafeteria to allow for social distancing for those in attendance.

During her report to the board, Superintendent Kathy Mollenkopf commended the efforts of teachers, staff, and administrators during the COVID-19 shutdown, noting that a lot of hard work has been put in during the transition to e-learning.

“I’ve been in communication with our administrators daily, our teachers weekly, some of our teachers more than once a week, and also different groups of students and parents throughout this period, trying to keep abreast of what concerns might arise,” Mollenkopf said. “I’ve also participated in several e-learning classes as well and I really thoroughly enjoyed them.”

“We have an amazing teaching staff and they’re dedicated to the students and I can’t say enough about their efforts,” she added. “Mr. (Shane) Leeth has been invaluable as our IT administrator. He’s put in many hours to make sure things are running for students and teachers as we navigate these platforms.”

Mollenkopf also thanked maintenance/custodial supervisor Geoff Waddles for checking the building and athletic complex each day, and she noted that meals continue to be distributed once a week.

The superintendent reminded the board that the district office remains open from 7:30 a.m. until 3:30 p.m. each day

She also addressed Governor DeWine’s order that schools remain closed until at least May 1 and said the district will do what needs to be done to continue the education of students.

With schools closed, a wait-and-see approach is being taken for the eighth grade trip to Washington, D.C., the prom, and graduation.

“With these seniors, I’d really like to see them have a graduation ceremony and for them to be recognized, even if it has to occur at a late date, later in June,” Mollenkopf explained. “I think we don’t cross anything off yet.”

Before the meeting, Mollenkopf said that work continues on the classroom addition project and the Early Childhood Center, and she noted both projects remain on schedule.

The board approved one-year preschool teaching contracts for Brooke Staley, Halle Beougher and Lexi Meyer; Sara Pugh, kindergarten, and Jackson Hemmelgarn, middle school math.

Board members also gave approval to the 2021-2022 school calendar and a Career Education Opportunity (CEO) Program agreement with Van Wert City Schools. An overnight trip to the FFA state convention in Columbus April 30 and May 1 was approved, subject to Governor Mike DeWine reopening schools.

The board agreed to purchase a new 84-seat school bus with lap belts for $95,337.

The next meeting of the Crestview Local Board of Education will be held at 6 p.m. Monday, April 20.