Coldwater superintendent recaps February board meeting, highlights staffing approval and district finances

Coldwater Exempted Village Schools Superintendent Doug Mader is recapping action from the board of education’s February meeting held Tuesday, February 17.

Mader said the meeting opened with High School Principal Jason Hemmelgarn introducing Ashley Lefeld as a prospective high school English teacher. The board later approved Lefeld’s hiring, and Mader said the district is excited to welcome her, noting she is already involved with the coaching staff in Coldwater.

The board also heard from the Coldwater Band Boosters, who shared upcoming projects, items they help fund for students, and fundraising plans in the near future. Mader said the board thanked the booster club for its long term support of the band program, especially during lean years in the district.

Mader said he provided updates on upcoming events and ongoing staff work tied to professional development. The district’s treasurer then presented the monthly financial reports and a new five year forecast.

According to Mader, the forecast shows revenue increasing slightly in the coming years despite reductions in state funding and recently passed property tax reform bills. Mader emphasized the importance of the district’s income tax levy, saying without it the district would be down to roughly 20 days of operating cash by 2030.

Mader said the district is continuing to closely monitor enrollment and staffing, and is building a 10 to 15 year plan for infrastructure needs to ensure facilities remain in good shape for students.

The board went into executive session briefly, then returned to approve Lefeld as the new English teacher, along with the hiring of a couple substitutes and the retirement of an elementary teacher. Mader said the meeting concluded at approximately 8:30 Tuesday night.