Celina Board of Education Weighs Building Move, Hears Community Concerns 

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CELINA, Ohio (March 23, 2026) — The Celina Board of Education met Monday night to discuss ongoing construction progress, financial matters, and a potential timeline for moving into the district’s new school facility—while also hearing concerns from community members about leadership decisions and district finances.

Construction Progress Continues

District officials reported steady progress on both the grades 3–6 and 7–12 buildings. Work continues on brick repairs, electrical and plumbing systems, and interior finishes. Installation of the building’s elevator has begun, and exterior work such as driveways and light pole bases is taking shape as weather allows.

Administrators noted the project is “coming along well,” with visible changes both inside and outside the new facility.

Mid-Year Move Still Under Consideration

A major topic of discussion was whether to move students into the new 7–12 building mid-school year or wait until summer.

The board approved a flexible 2026–27 school calendar that allows for either option. If the district moves mid-year, several non-student days would be used in January—around the Martin Luther King Jr. Day—to complete the transition and prepare classrooms.

Superintendent and staff emphasized that a final decision will likely need to be made by early summer, depending on when contractors can guarantee completion of the building.

Technology Challenges Highlighted

The district’s technology director outlined potential risks tied to a mid-year move, including:

• Possible district-wide internet outages during system transitions

• Wi-Fi reliability concerns in a new, untested building

• Temporary loss of security camera coverage

• Challenges with syncing student systems and state testing requirements

While no specific timeline for outages could be guaranteed, officials stressed that planning is underway to minimize disruptions.

Public Voices Concerns

Several residents spoke during public participation, raising concerns about:

• Property tax changes and how they impact school funding

• Administrative restructuring during a major transition

• The timing of moving into the new facility

One speaker urged the board to prioritize stability, especially given the scale of the district’s roughly $130 million building investment. Another questioned financial decisions and called for greater accountability.

Financial Report and Approvals

The board approved multiple financial items, including:

• February expenditures of about $5.7 million

• A cash balance of approximately $67.6 million, with more than $36 million allocated to the building project

• Permanent appropriations for fiscal year 2026

Donations were also accepted, including $500 from the Celina Basketball Boosters and livestock contributions for student programs.

Staff Recognized, Retirements Announced

District leaders recognized several retiring staff members, many with decades of service. Officials praised their long-term dedication and impact on students.

Emergency Response Praised

Administrators also highlighted a recent weather-related emergency in which more than 1,200 students were safely dismissed without bus transportation due to high winds. Staff coordinated with families and had most students picked up within about an hour, earning praise for their quick response.

Other Actions

The board also:

• Approved an FFA trip to Washington, D.C.

• Began reviewing updated board policies, including new guidance on student name, image, and likeness (NIL)

• Approved a revised administrative salary structure aimed at simplifying pay scales

Looking Ahead

Board members said the key factor moving forward will be receiving a firm completion date from contractors. Until then, the district will continue planning for both a mid-year and summer move.

The meeting adjourned without entering executive session.