Welcome to the show
The Euclid Board of Education met on April 8th, 2026, in the Board Room at the Fordyce Administration Building at 7:00 pm.
The meeting was called to order at 7:00 pm by Board President Gabrielle Kelly, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance.
All five Board Members were present.
The Board reviewed and accepted the agenda for the evening.
The Board adopted the minutes for the March 4th, 10th, 11th, 12th, 18th and 25th, 2026 Board Meetings.
Proclamations
Superintendent Christopher Papouras read a proclamation declaring May 1, 2026 as School Lunch Hero Day
Arbor Elementary School Recognitions and Presentations
Four outstanding Arbor Elementary Students were recognized at the meeting. The students were recognized for consistently demonstrating positive behavior and leadership in the Arbor school community. Some of them serve as ambassadors helping to guide and support their peers. They are all helpful, respectful, maintain good attendance, and have remained referral free. Their positive attitude and willingness to do the right thing make them great role models for others.
Devy Black
Ralph Wells
Lenell Locklear
Kayden Laury
Maurice Primous, Arbor's Security Guard, was recognized as Staff Member of the Month for his ability to quickly connect with students through calm and meaningful conversations that help them successfully return to class. He has built positive relationships with students, staff and families, which supports a positive school environment and student success.
Instructional Coach Kathleen Rich was recognized as Faculty Member of the Month for her dedication and commitment to Arbor. She is a great team player who works well with staff and students and consistently goes above and beyond to ensure the work gets done. Her support, reliability and positive attitude make her an invaluable part of the Arbor team.
Ms. Deja Wilson, parent of Tamari C. was recognized as the Family Member of the Month. Ms. Wilson is dedicated and involved in the Arbor community. She regularly volunteers and attends many school events, showing consistent support for students and staff. As Arbor’s PTA President, she works hard to raise funds that help provide students with opportunities for new experiences and allows Arbor to celebrate their attendance, academic success and positive behavior.
Following the recognitions, Principal LaWanda Prettyman and Assistant Principal Velma Bell-Clark shared an overview at how Arbor is building a positive, engaging and student-centered environment. Their presentation highlighted the intentional work happening across climate & culture, family and school partnerships, student supports (MTSS) and academic instruction.
Climate and Culture
Arbor has prioritized building a strong and positive climate by creating opportunities for students and staff to feel recognized and connected. Student leadership groups like the Safety Patrol, Student Council, and Young Euclid Scholars help foster ownership and pride throughout the building. Staff culture is also a focus, with weekly recognitions that celebrate contributions and build morale. Programs like the Officer Rico Reset initiative provide students with structured support to regulate and re-engage in learning, while schoolwide events like the Halloween Parade, Trunk or Treat, and Career Day strengthen the sense of community.
Family & School Partnerships
Arbor continues to strengthen relationships with families and the community through meaningful engagement opportunities and partnerships. Events like the Father’s Walk create space for connection and positive interactions between students and important role models in their lives. Community partnerships with organizations such as the Euclid Schools Foundation, Kids Book Bank, Cleveland Metroparks and local businesses like Ken Ganley have provided both resources and enriching experiences for students. These partnerships have supported initiatives like the Arbor Garden and fundraising efforts to enhance school programming. Through intentional outreach and collaboration, Arbor is building a strong network of support around its students.
Multi-Tiered Systems of Supports (MTSS)
Arbor's MTSS framework is centered on supporting the whole child through academic, behavioral, and social-emotional interventions. A strong PBIS system includes consistent recognition programs, referral-free celebrations, and schoolwide incentives that help reinforce positive behavior. Social-emotional supports, such as daily small groups and mentoring sessions, help students develop important life skills and maintain a readiness for learning. Staff regularly use data to guide decision-making, leading to measurable outcomes such as a 25% reduction in suspensions and improved student engagement. These layered supports make sure that students are able to receive the assistance they need to be successful.
Student Engagement & Learning
Instruction at Arbor is designed to be engaging, rigorous and aligned with district priorities. Teachers use Explicit Instruction while incorporating hands-on, collaborative learning experiences that make content engaging for students. Curricula like CKLA and creative lesson planning help bring learning to life across subjects. Students are also given opportunities to take pride in their academic success through recognition events and peer collaboration activities like Reading Buddies. With ongoing professional development and collaboration among staff, Arbor continues to strengthen instructional practices and drive student achievement forward.
Reports and Recommendations of the Treasurer
This portion of the meeting covered the District’s financial data. Euclid Schools Treasurer Patrick Higley led the Board Members through District Financial Statements.
The Board approved the Monthly Financial data and Then & Now Listing.
The Board approved an agreement with Healthcare Process Consulting, Inc. to provide Medicaid billing services for the Euclid Schools.
The Board accepted a donation from Linda Knight and Frank Scirabba in memory of John Lanese, a retired teacher and long-time volunteer for the Euclid School District. The donation is to be used to provide funds to the Bluestone Elementary Library in honor of Mr. Lanese’s love of reading.
Reports and Recommendations of the Superintendent
Personnel
The Board approved changes to Certified and Classified personnel in the form of resignations, terminations, retirements, permanent substitute appointments, non-teaching appointments, non-teaching assignments, extra duty, athletic duty, athletic duty resignations, and leaves.
The Board approved Special Education Summer Program staffing for 2026.
Miscellaneous
The Board approved Special Education Summer School Programs for 2026. These programs include Extended School Year, Compensatory Education and Preschool Evaluation Referral Clinic.
Policies
The Board approved policies and revisions regarding:
Artificial Intelligence
Information Security
Food Services
Job Related Expenses
Use of Credit Cards
Procurement Cards
Vendor Relations
Grading
The Board appointed Ms. Selina Wright as Treasurer Pro-Tem for the remainder of the meeting.
Executive Session
The Board entered into Executive Session at 7:57pm.