East Liverpool BOE appoints president, seeks to fill seat
EAST LIVERPOOL –The East Liverpool City School District Board of Education held two meetings Thursday: its annual reorganization meeting and a regular monthly board meeting.
During the reorganizational meeting, David Hamiliton was elected board president –a position held for multiple years Matt Handley, who remains on the board. Mario Hernandez was reelected as the board vice president. The resignation of longtime board member Larry Walton was announced.
Board members elected to continue with the same meeting dates, times and locations which will be the fourth Thursday of each month at 6 p.m., at the district administration office.
Board members also voted on the appointment of legal counsel for 2025 as follows: Pepple and Waggoner Ltd. Attorneys at Law for general representation, contract negotiations and litigation/contested matters; Bricker and Eckler Attorneys at Law for Ohio School Facilities Project Bond Counsel and Ohio School Facilities Project Construction Counsel; Ennis Britton Co., LPA Attorneys at Law for general representation, contract negotiations, litigation/contested matters; Taft, Stettinius & Hollister L.L.P., as counsel on grants, community schools; Squire, Patton, Boggs as legal financial advisors; and Amanda E. Gordon, McDonald Hopkins LLC, Cleveland for counsel on financing projects.
The Review was designated as the official newspaper of the district.
Board members approved the establishment of Board Service Fund in an amount not to exceed $2 per child enrolled in district as of the October 2023 count per Ohio Revised Code.
A motion to allow board members to participate at their own expense in group health and dental insurance plans was approved, along with approving board member compensation at the maximum allowed by law of $125 per meeting with a maximum of 24 meetings.
Standing authorization, a yearly approval for financial matters, was given to the treasurer.
Following the reorganizational meeting and the administering of the oath of office to Hamilton and Hernandez, board members went right into their regular monthly board meeting.
In his report to the board, Superintendent Jonathan Ludwig said that he would like to recognize and thank Walton for his years of dedicated service to the staff and students of the district.
“Larry’s impact has been felt far and wide, and we wish him all the best in his retirement,” Ludwig said.
He also noted that that he wished to express his heartfelt gratitude to other retirees, such as Ron Paul and Tammy Reed, for their invaluable contributions over the years.
Ludwig commented on the Esports, robotics and STEM programs saying that the Esports and Pottersbotts Robotics were in full swing, and the North STEM Club is gearing up for their next meeting.
“Our Potter Thespians and musicians have been hard at work rehearsing for two major upcoming events: the Hunchback of Notre Dame musical and our Music in Our Schools performances,” Ludwig informed. “These events will showcase the incredible talent and dedication of our students and staff in the arts program.”
He also commended winter sports participants.
“Winter sports are in full stride, and our student-athletes are delivering outstanding performances.”
Ludwig also wanted to show gratitude for the teaching staff and committees and recognize the support staff.
“I would like to express appreciation to our teaching staff, particularly those who serve on District Leadership Teams (DLT) and Building Leadership Teams (BLT) Ludwig said. “Their tireless efforts are driving meaningful progress and ensuring that we continue to move the needle on academic achievement and student success.”
For the support staff, Ludwig said, “I want to acknowledge our custodians, bus drivers, and buildings and grounds crews for their exceptional commitment to our district. Their dedication and flexibility–especially in response to the challenges of Mother Nature–ensure that our schools remain safe, clean, and welcoming for everyone. Thank you all for your continued support and partnership in making East Liverpool City Schools a place where students thrive. Together, we are building a brighter future.”
Board members voted to accept Walton’s resignation effective Jan. 9. Walton has served for 28 years as a board member. The board will seek applicants and hold a special board meeting to conduct interviews and another special meeting to vote on a candidate to fill the vacant spot within 30 days.
Resignations for Ron Paul, intervention specialist, effective May 30, 2025, for retirement; Hayley Shaw, crossing guard, effective January 14; and Tammie Reed, director of transportation, effective June 30, 2025 for retirement; were accepted by the board. Paul is retiring at 23 years and Reed with 26 years of service.
The board approved multiple supplemental, classified appointments during the personnel portion of the meeting.
The board also approved the College Credit Plus Memorandum of Understanding with Kent State University for the 2025-2026 school year and a contract for Photography & Media Services, Legacy Studios by JJS.
The treasurer’s report was approved as presented.
The next regular board meeting is scheduled for Feb. 27 at 6 p.m., at the district’s administration office.
kgarabrandt@mojonews.com