BDD board looks to create new educational model

LISBON -- A lot of things have changed during COVID-19 and some may continue to be adjusted long after we return to a more normal existence.

Bill Devon, superintendent at the Columbiana County Board of Developmental Disability, told the board this week there are some things that have been adjusted they may want to consider keeping in the future in the area of communications and education.

Without going into specifics, Devon asked the board to continue looking at creating a new educational model for the school. There was recently a committee meeting and Devon called what he heard very impressive, but added he would like to see the ideas developed further.

Board members noted it will be important to get assistant superintendent Josh Martin, the principal, the staff and the caregivers all on board with the ideas should they go forward and they should be involved in upcoming meetings.

Staff members and many adult clients meeting the criteria for early coronavirus vaccinations received the first of two doses on Feb. 4. Devon said he wanted to thank Missy Andric for a well-run clinic with about 200 people receiving the vaccine in three hours and the county health department for all their work throughout the pandemic.

Devon said once the state told those with the CCBDD the names of the clients were who qualified for the vaccine, the CCBDD were able to quickly notify them and set it up.

In other matters:

-- The board approved next year's school calendar for the Robert Bycroft School starting on Aug. 23 for students and continuing through May 26 with Christmas break running from Dec. 20 through Dec. 31.

-- The board approved placing Carrie Lawton on a new pay scale and adding the title of transition specialist to Ashley Arter's job on a part-time basis. A part-time custodial position was created at the transportation Reach4More offices and Roger Faulk was hired to fill it.

-- The board approved a renewal of membership in the Ohio School Board Association at a rate not to exceed $500 and renewed membership with the Disability Housing Network costing $701.