Board Update

A recap of the meeting held April 7, 2021

The Reading Community City School District Board of Education held a work session on Wednesday, April 7, 2021. Meetings are streamed and archived here.

Board Meetings

The Board took action to return to in-person Board Meetings, on-site at the Reading campus, beginning with the April 21, 2021 meeting. Ohio Department of Health guidance for indoor venues will be followed, which includes a 25% capacity limit. The district will work to provide adequate access to Board Meetings so that we can hear the voices of any interested community members. Look for additional details soon.

Hilltop Property

The bidding process for the Hilltop Property Athletic Fields opened on April 5. The apparent low bid includes alternate 1, irrigation system, and alternate 2, warning tracks. It is expected that a contract will be brought to the Board for consideration during the April 21, 2021 meeting.

Central Property

Superintendent Jason Enix discussed the need to secure the Central Property, and repair damage to the lot. Details can be found in his presentation here. The analysis of the property’s future is ongoing.

PK-12 Campus

A meeting was held with Thurnridge Drive residents on March 20 to discuss property line concerns, including fencing. A solution has been found that will meet the resident’s needs and conform to the project design document (PDD). Work is ongoing to secure permits. Work is scheduled to begin April 19 on the installation of sound blankets to reduce noise from the chiller that is impacting Thurnridge Drive residents.

A contract is being completed to install a sidewalk to the outdoor classroom area, which is needed for ADA compliance. Project contingency funds are being used for all three of the above-mentioned projects.

The work continues to finalize punch list items for the PK-12 Campus, with 75 items remaining, most of which involved outside work that can now be completed in the warmer weather.

Reorganization Plan

Mr. Enix updated the Board on the district reorganization plan. Several positions have been filled through internal transfers, which have created additional openings. All current positions have been accounted for in the five-year forecast.

Learning Recovery Plan

K-8 families across the district are being invited to participate in a Summer Jump Start program. It will take place July 19-August 5 and focus on English Language Arts and Math. Registration will remain open until April 23.

COVID-19 Update

The district’s most recent COVID-19 Dashboard shows no cases and no quarantines among staff and students. Safety protocols are still in place on campus and still urged for families as COVID variants spread and have an impact on student athletics in some districts.

Community Chats and Community Forums

Superintendent Jason Enix and Treasurer Colette Lewis continue to engage in discussions with members of the community in small group Community Chats and larger issues-focused Community Forums. The next forum will be a continuation of the financial learning series about district finances on Tuesday, April 13. Please see the full schedule under “Important Dates” below.

Open Enrollment & Kindergarten Registration

Open enrollment is now underway for new students interested in joining Reading Community City Schools. Open enrollment continues through May 14 and additional information can be found here.

Kindergarten registration is also underway. Families interested in kindergarten for the 2021-2022 school year can begin the process here.

State Testing

State testing begins soon. Buildings will be in touch with families about testing dates and expectations for remote learners. It is important for all of our families to remember students do best during testing when they are well-rested, on time, and have had a healthy breakfast. Please remember your Chromebooks!