(Left) Southern Local High School Athletic Director Robert Shansky was honored for his 700th career win as a volleyball coach at the school during the December school board meeting. He received a plaque for his milestone from officials and is pictured, at left, with Superintendent Tom Cunningham. (Right) Southern Local Board of Education members Kip Dowling, left, and John Sawyer were recognized by board President Scott Hart for their years of service during the Dec. 9 regular session. Dowling served for 12 years while Sawyer held several terms since 1989. New officers Jeremiah Cole and Elizabeth Weston will take office in January. (Submitted photos)

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SALINEVILLE – The Southern Local School District is keeping a close eye on legislation which could negatively impact the future of its finances.

District Treasurer Greg Sabbato informed leaders at the Dec. 9 regular session that the Ohio Statehouse had several bills either under consideration or heading to Gov. Mike DeWine for his signature.

“We are tracking several bills that have passed in the House and the Senate that will impact Southern Local specifically,” Sabbato said. “There are probably about 15 bills that will impact the way we get funded in our community and the way the state funds us.”

The official estimate is that the legislation would be passed and could affect the district’s general fund, and Sabbato added that it could mean a $445,000 loss from the state foundation.

“That has not been finalized but we believe that’s going to be the impact of those bills. I just wanted to keep the board and community apprised of what’s going to happen,” he said. “It’s kind of a moving target, and as we all know there’s a referendum to completely eliminate any sort of real estate taxes. We anticipate that to go on the ballot in November of 2026.”

Should the referendum be passed, he said it contains a constitutional clause to eliminate all real estate taxes in Ohio, which includes townships, fire departments, and schools. He added that if the referendum passes, state leaders would be responsible for determining an alternative method to fund schools and local services.

“That unknown is what is worrying me, and a lot of my colleagues,” he said.

Meanwhile, board President Scott Hart recognized departing members Kip Dowling and John Sawyer for their continuous service to the district, students, and community. Dowling served for 12 years while Sawyer held several different terms since 1989. New members Jeremiah Cole and Elizabeth Weston will take office in January.

Hart read a letter noting appreciation for Dowling and Sawyer’s dedication, stating it made a lasting impact upon the lives of countless students and their contributions have helped shape the strong foundation on which the district continues to grow.

“Throughout the years at Southern Local, you have demonstrated unwavering professionalism, integrity, and dedication. Your leadership, hard work, and willingness to serve whenever needed has strengthened our district and enriched the educational experience of our students. Southern Local is a better place because of the time, energy, and care you have invested,” he added. “As you reflect on your service, please know that your efforts have not gone unnoticed. We are grateful for everything you have done to support the mission of Southern Local Schools and for the positive difference you have made in our district.”

Hart then wished them continued success in fulfillment in the future.

In other matters:

– The board heard from Southern Local Elementary School secretary Sandy Lewis, who suggested that officials acquire a bench to place on campus in tribute to a recently deceased staff member. District Athletic Director Bob Shansky, who also serves as senior class adviser, said the student organization would be interested in helping with that endeavor;

– Officials recognized Shansky with a plaque for marking his 700th career victory as a volleyball coach;

– Leaders approved substitutes for the current school year, including custodian/secretary Jenna Corbin; teachers and paraprofessionals LoveDevett Hill, Jonathan Bailey, and Glenna McNeil; and school nurse Katherine Grafton. Other staffing matters approved were Ciara Leggett as Indian Academy administrative assistant; a Utica Shale Academy staffing agreement for John Wright with an additional contract for the EQT tractor project at USA; a three-year contract for School Security Officer Jeff Haugh; a one-year contract for Trista Furbee as a four-hour cafeteria worker in the elementary school kitchen; and Jason Riggs and Mark Soukup as volunteer boys’ basketball coaches, LoveDevett Hill as volunteer girls’ basketball coach, Mark Emmerling as high school assistant wrestling coach, Logan Krulik as assistant junior high wrestling coach, and Brenden Severs as girls’ wrestling coach for the 2025-2026 school year;

– Officials approved a bonus for all operational staff at Utica Shale Academy for exceeding expectations on the school report card last year. The bonuses were paid through USA funding;

– The board approved a quote from the Center of Music and Art in Wintersville for an updated sound and lighting system for the cafetorium;

– Set the next meeting for Jan. 13 at 6 p.m. at the Williams Collaborative Building in Salineville, which will be precluded by a tax meeting and organizational session.