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First day of school for Loveland students will be Monday, August 31

Loveland, Ohio – At the Loveland Board of Education meeting held on August 11, 2020, the Board adopted a revised district calendar for the 2020-21 school year.

The first day of school for all Loveland students has been moved from Wednesday, August 26 to Monday, August 31.

This change allows for the staff and teachers to have three additional in-service/planning days prior to the first day of school. Staff will now have from August 17-28 to be trained in the new health and safety protocols with additional time for designing curriculum for the in-person and remote learning models.

There will be no change in the number of instructional days for students. The teacher planning days added on August 26, 27, and 28 replace one of the planning days scheduled at the end of each quarter. The planning days on October 23, January 15, and March 19 are now scheduled instructional days with students in attendance.

Aug 13, 2020
The awards, honors, and scholarships for the LHS Class of 2020

Academic Top 10

# 1 Ashley George Ohio State University

# 2 Sofia Dillhof University of Notre Dame

# 3 Nami Canon Ohio State University

# 4 Anthony Jerdack Ohio State University

# 5 Caroline Wagner Ohio State University

# 6 Nathan Dygert Ohio State University

# 7 Simon Grome Ohio State University

# 8 Jack Scuterud Ohio State University

# 9 Nathaniel Broelmann Ohio State University

# 10 Erin Dickman Ohio State University

Principal and Faculty Awards

Citizenship, Service, and Spirit Awards

The recipients of the Citizenship, Service and Spirit Awards are selected by the high school faculty. The Citizenship Award recognizes a student for his/her respectful and responsible behavior on campus and in the school community. This student maintains positive relationships with both peers and adults alike. The Service Award recognizes a student for his/her dedication to serving the needs of our school community. This student utilizes his/her talents, passions and expertise to make a difference on campus and in the community. This is a young person who truly takes pride in helping make a better world for others. The Spirit Award recognizes a student for his/her pride in all things Loveland Tigers. This student is involved in spirited support of school and extracurricular activities that affect the student body. A positive and upbeat attitude and a love of LHS is evident.

Citizenship Award – Sam Greenberg

Service Award – Jordan Sovik

Spirit Award – Kate Garry

Principal’s Awards

The recipients of the Principal’s Awards exemplify respect, responsibility, integrity and pride in actions that make LHS a better place. They are motivated to support students and faculty in building a school community that fills a need. They are role models and leaders of the Tiger Family.

Outstanding Female – Jillian Hayes

Outstanding Male – Collin Hedgepeth

Principal’s Award – Erin Dickman

Outstanding Senior Achievement

Faculty members in each academic area have selected senior students who have performed with a high degree of excellence in a particular area throughout their high school career. The students have been active participants in the classroom and have gone “in depth” into the subject for which they will receive the award. Students receiving this high recognition have been selected by an evaluation of all facets of their performance.

Applied Technology andBusinessEducation Department Award -Josh Anness

Art Department Award – Hannah Powers

Language Arts Department Award – Elizabeth Oh

Mathematics Department Award – Sam Greenberg

Music Department Award – Jett Stevens

Science Department Award – Zachary Case

Social Studies Department Award – Sam Greenberg

World Languages Department Award Perseverance Award – Joey Jeffcott

Perseverance Award – Donnie Riffle

National Merit Scholarship

Based upon CollegeBoard PSAT results, students are commended in recognition of their outstanding academic promise. Commended Students and Finalists are named on the basis of a nationally applied Selection Index score that may vary from year to year.

Commended Students for the Class of 2020

Zachary Case, Ashley George, Simon Grome, Daniel Hinrichsen, and Samantha James

National Merit Scholarship Winner/Ray Shaw Memorial Scholarship by American City Business Journals

Clare Daumeyer

The Overture Awards

The Overture Awards is a program that recognizes, encourages and rewards excellence in the arts among Greater Cincinnati students in grades 9-12. Its mission is to encourage arts education as an integral part of a student’s academic experience and to create an environment that encourages training in, and appreciation of the arts. The Overture Awards Competition is the area’s largest solo arts competition and offers awards in six artistic disciplines: creative writing, dance, instrumental music, theatre, visual art, and vocal music.

Visual Art: Tristan Dumas and Hunter Talbott

Creative Writing: Caitlin Elam

Semi-Finalist in Creative Writing: Elizabeth Oh

Great Oaks Pathways Graduates

The Great Oaks Pathway is awarded to seniors who have successfully completed all three Project Lead the Way courses offered at Loveland High School. These courses are a part of the Engineering Pathway offered in partnership with Great Oaks Career Campuses.

Tom Behling, Tyler Hughes, Ben Kavouras, Christian Kuhn, Ben Rupe, Matthew Rychlik, and Hunter Talbott.

Loveland City School District Awards

Student Representatives to the Loveland Board of Education are chosen from the junior and senior class by the Board Members and serve a one year term. The students attend Board of Education Meetings and give a monthly Board report. Their presence provides student input to the Board and allows these students to improve the educational process for all Loveland students.

Keller Walls

Scholarships

“Let Us Never Forget” Seth Mitchell Scholarship

Seth Mitchell was born in Charlotte, North Carolina and lived in that area until he was 11 years old. As a child, Seth participated in sports and school activities and loved water sports such as skiing and tubing. As a young boy, Seth wanted to be a pilot. Seth had a huge collection of planes. He even had them hanging from the ceiling in his room. Seth was usually seen with some sort of plane or helicopter on his shirts. When Seth and his family moved to Loveland, he continued his dream of flying by taking his first “solo” flight at the Waynesville airfield. Seth flew in a glider plane for his12th birthday. The instructor let Seth take the controls as the glider sailed through the air. He was hooked! At Loveland Middle School, Seth got his first taste of organized football. Seth graduated from Loveland High School where he played football, pole vaulted for the track team, was a member of the student council and was elected Class President for 1997. Seth called Loveland home because that is where he developed lifelong friendships and the skills, talent and character traits that guided his life. One turning point in Seth’s life was getting involved with Student Venture, the high school ministry of the Campus Crusade for Christ. Seth found his spiritual compass and developed leadership skills that would serve him well in future endeavors.

After high school, Seth enrolled at Virginia Tech and in the ROTC program. Seth was a member of Echo Company. He earned an ROTC scholarship after his freshman year and became the Executive Officer of Golf Company during his senior year. He was a member of the German Club, Ring Design Committee and member at large for the Class of 2001. After graduation, Seth entered the United States Marine Corps Officer Candidate School. Upon graduating from OCS,2nd Lt. Mitchell was assigned to Camp Lejeune, NC. While at CampLejeune, he served tours in Okinawa, Haiti and Iraq as part of an infantry unit. Seth was promoted to1st Lt. and on November 1st 2005, he achieved the rank of Captain.

Growing up he had dreamed of becoming a pilot but did not qualify for the military aviation program due to his eyesight. After corrective eye surgery, and while stationed at Camp Lejeune, Captain Mitchell achieved his private pilot’s license. Due to his determination, Captain Mitchell beat long odds and was awarded a Marine Aviation training spot after four years in the Marine Corps. Captain Mitchell began flight training in Pensacola, Florida, earning his wings in May 2007. He later qualified to fly the AH-1 Super Cobra Helicopter. Captain Mitchell had achieved and was living his dream of serving his country as a Marine aviator. Captain Mitchell loved to fly and did so during his second tour in Iraq in 2008. In very typical fashion, Captain Mitchell volunteered to report early to duty in Afghanistan to assist a unit short on manpower.

Captain Seth Mitchell, 30, was killed October 26, 2009, when two helicopters collided while supporting combat operations in Afghanistan’s Helmand province. Captain Mitchell was assigned to Marine Light Attack Helicopter Squadron 367, Marine Aircraft Group 39, 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing, I Marine Expeditionary Force, based out of Camp Pendleton, California.

The “Let Us Never Forget” Seth Mitchell Scholarship is awarded to the applicant who most embodies the spirit of Seth Mitchell.

A word from Seth’s parents, Steve and Connie Mitchell

The 2020 Let Us Never Forget Seth Mitchell/Mitchell Family scholarship recipient has a spirit similar to that of Seth Mitchell. She has a “do something” attitude, a strong work ethic, knows no stranger and is kind to all. She is not afraid to fail in pursuit of her dreams and is strong in the face of adversity.

We are proud to present the the $3,500 Let Us Never Forget Seth Mitchell/Mitchell Family scholarship to Jordan Collins.

Loveland Schools Foundation – Captain Seth Mitchell Memorial Scholarship

A 1997 graduate of Loveland High School, Captain David Seth Mitchell embodied the ideals of loyalty, friendship and selflessness. After graduation Seth attended Virginia Tech and ultimately attained his dream of becoming a pilot in the United States Marine Corps. He died serving his country in Afghanistan in October, 2009. Many of his classmates and friends in Loveland have established this scholarship in his memory. It goes to a graduating senior who embodies the same qualities as Seth, those of service and determination.

A word from the Scholarship Committee

The goal of the Capt. Seth Mitchell Scholarships and the HERO 5K is to keep Seth’s spirit and story alive in the Loveland Community. Seth’s spirit of service and friendship was endearing to all and allowed him to befriend everyone he met. Seth also set high goals and was determined to accomplish them. We are blessed each year with the opportunity to meet a handful of Seniors that embody the same characteristics. This year there were many worthy candidates, all of which would be worthy selections. We wish them all, and the rest of the Seniors best of luck on the next steps of their journeys.

This year’s winner was described by their references as being “self-motivated and goal oriented… and a fine example of caring more about their teammate than herself.” In her own essay, she describes her time with NEST. While she proclaims she has room for growth, during her time with NEST she has “become more self-aware, grown more connections, and come to a better understanding of the different demographics and home life circumstances in her community.” She also states how far a smile or a hug can go for someone. A motto that Seth would truly support.

She will be attending Ohio State University in the fall and would like to continue her service in the future with Doctors Without Borders. A goal we know she will achieve.

This year’s winner of the $3,500 Capt. Seth Mitchell Scholarship is Caroline Ginder.

Loveland School Foundation – Libby Walker Scholarship

Elizabeth “Libby” Walker was a graduate of Loveland High School who believed in the value of education and ethical business practices. Libby and her husband, Karl, owned and operated multiple, successful businesses based in Loveland, Ohio. This award is presented in Libby’s memory with the hope that the recipient can use the funds to realize their own success in the business world. This scholarship is awarded to a female student with a business oriented career path.

A $1000 Libby Walker Scholarship was awarded to Keller Walls.

Loveland Schools Foundation – Member Endowed Scholarship

This scholarship is made possible through the generous gifts to the Foundation by its members. Believing that a strong academic background puts better employees in the workplace and builds community responsibility, this scholarship is awarded for one year to a graduating senior of Loveland High School attending an accredited two or four year college or university or technical school.

A $1,000 Member Endowed Scholarship was awarded to Ashley George.

Loveland Schools Foundation – Smith/Shannon Scholarship

The Smith/Shannon scholarship is funded through a grant from Michael Shannon, M.D., class of 1967. Dr. Shannon, a Neurosurgeon who lives and maintains his medical practice in Zanesville, Ohio, is a founder and ex-officio board member of the Loveland Schools Foundation. Special mentors influence many of us at some time during our lives. One of Dr. Shannon’s mentors was Virgil Smith, a custodian at Loveland High School, and supervisor of the young part time employee at the school, Mike Shannon. A special bond developed between employer and employee and Dr. Shannon credits Mr. Smith with teaching him the discipline and work ethic that helped him excel throughout the rigors and demands of medical school and his profession.

The Smith/Shannon Scholarship of $1000 is for a Loveland High School graduating senior who plans to attend an accredited institution of higher learning and who has committed to a selected course of study, demonstrated an ability and desire to complete that course of study and has maintained an average to above average GPA may apply for this scholarship. All criteria being equal, selection is based on the need of the student.

A $1,000 Smith/Shannon Scholarship was awarded to Caroline Ginder, Katlyn Kramer, and Emily Molitor.

Loveland Schools Foundation – Stefan P. Talley Scholarship

Stefan P. Talley was described by many as a big teddy bear. He never met a person he didn’t like and always had a smile on his face. He loved sports, especially football and played for Loveland. He can be described as an inspirational and loving person that touched so many lives of so many people. By establishing this scholarship, his memory, his hopes and his dreams will be kept alive. Stefan attended the University of Cincinnati where he majored in and appreciated history. He enjoyed life, traveling, and learning new things. He also auditioned for the hit television show Who Wants to Be a Millionaire, where he made it on the show and became a winner! Stefan was taken early from us as a result of cancer. Stefan was such an inspiration and had an amazing and positive impact on his friends, classmates and those who knew him.

The $1,000 Stefan P. Talley Scholarship was awarded to Samantha James.

Loveland Schools Foundation – Robert and Pauline Verkamp Williams Scholarship

This scholarship is made possible through the generous commitment to education by the Bryan Williams Family in memory of his parents Robert and Pauline Verkamp Williams. The scholarship is awarded to a graduating senior from Loveland High School who will be attending an institution of higher learning at an accredited university or college.

A $1,000 Verkamp Williams Scholarship was awarded to Jordan Collins.

Little Miami River Chamber Alliance Scholarship

The Little Miami River Chamber Alliance Scholarship is given annually to a student who demonstrates a personal commitment to community, reflected in their activities and local service projects.

The $1,000 Little Miami River Chamber Alliance Scholarship was awarded to Kirstin Thomas.

Loveland Education Association Scholarship

The Loveland Education Association Scholarship is given annually to a graduating senior who best exemplifies those qualities held in high esteem by the teachers of Loveland City Schools. Each teacher in the school district contributes annually to this fund. This year the fund allows for the awarding of two scholarships of $1500.

A $1,500 LEA Scholarships were awarded to Samantha James and Keller Walls.

Chuck Schmidt Memorial Scholarship

The teachers and staff at LHS are pleased to offer two $1000 non-renewable scholarships. Funds were raised through donations and various fundraising events. We are pleased to name our scholarship after our distinguished colleague, Mr. Chuck Schmidt.

A $1,000 “Chuck Schmidt” Scholarship was awarded to Rosa Karl-Chacon and Sophia Raby.

The DeWitt Scholarship

The purpose of this scholarship is to recognize a graduating senior who exhibits both academic excellence and extracurricular participation at LHS and/or in the community. The scholarship is a $500 non-renewable scholarship sponsored by Loveland Middle School staff and LMS student council.

The $500 DeWitt Scholarship was awarded to Aaron Earl.

Catherine and Walter Klein Valedictorian and Salutatorian Scholarship

The Catherine and Walter Klein Valedictorian and Salutatorian Scholarship is to recognize the many years of hard work and focus on academics necessary to attain the honor of Valedictorian and Salutatorian. Through the generosity of Catherine and Walter Klein, the recipients will receive a scholarship of $1,000.

The $1,000 Valedictorian Scholarship was awarded to Ashley George.

The $1,000 Salutatorian Scholarship was awarded to Sofia Dillhoff.

Heaven’s Game Impact Scholar Scholarship

Heaven’s Game Foundation is a charitable organization dedicated to improving, enhancing and impacting the lives of those battling cancer. The Impact Scholar Award recipient is one who anticipates giving back to their community and embraces the mantra “leave it better than you found it”. This scholarship is in memory of John Dombroski who inspired the core value of the foundation.

A word from Chris Dombroski

Heaven’s Game was founded in honor of the passing of my father, John, from colon cancer in 2018. This year’s winner embodies his commitment to education and the passion for impacting the world that we look for in our Impact Scholar. Clara Planner, a graduate of Loveland High School’s class of 2020, has excelled in her career at Loveland carrying a 4.22 GPA in the classroom and showcasing her leadership and skillset on the volleyball court while volunteering at NEST in her free time. However, what sets her apart is her commitment to her family. When reflecting on an impactful person in her life, Clara told a heartfelt and moving story about her dad and how much he has inspired her through his passion, commitment, and dedication to everything he does in his life. In her words, her dad, “has shown me the epitome of determination, selflessness, and having a loving nature looks like”. Clara embodies the values of my father and has a very bright future ahead of her and we couldn’t be more proud to select her as this year’s Impact Scholar. Next fall, Clara plans to attend Ohio State University to study biology, the same university her Dad received his undergraduate education from.

The $1,000 Impact Scholar Scholarship was awarded to Clara Planner.

Shelter Insurance Foundation Scholarship

The Shelter Insurance Foundation Scholarship is offered through the generosity of Shelter Insurance.

The $2,000 Shelter Insurance Foundation Scholarship was awarded to Keller Walls.

Loveland Initiative Tracy Johnson Scholarship

The Loveland Initiative Tracy Johnson Scholarship honors the memory of Tracy Johnson. Throughout her struggle with Muscular Dystrophy, Tracy demonstrated courage and perseverance to further her educational goals. In honor of Tracy’s lifelong dream to attend college, this scholarship carries her name.

A word from the Scholarship Committee

On behalf of The Loveland Initiative Scholarship Committee, it is our pleasure to inform you that you have been selected as the 2020 recipient of the Tracy L. Johnson Scholarship. Like Tracy, you demonstrate a strong interest towards education and in serving your community. Congratulations on your achievements.

The $1,500 Loveland Initiative Tracy Johnson Scholarship was awarded to Keller Walls.

Loveland Woman’s Club – Viola Phillips Scholarship

Viola Phillips was Loveland’s first woman mayor. She was dedicated to the total spirit of Loveland. Viola was especially interested in community service and the quality of life for all residents. The Loveland Woman’s Club wishes to perpetuate her memory by awarding this scholarship to a graduating student who has demonstrated outstanding service to others a scholarship.

The $2,000 Viola Phillips Scholarship was awarded to Vivien Terselic.

Loveland Woman’s Club – Woman’s Club of Loveland Scholarship

The Loveland Woman’s Club has been an active organization in Loveland since 1912. For over 50 years, they have provided scholarships to deserving young women and young men residing in the Loveland area.

A $2,000 Woman’s Club of Loveland Scholarship was awarded to Sofia Dillhoff.

Loveland Music Boosters Scholarships

The Loveland Music Boosters takes great pride in awarding scholarships to four deserving seniors. Presentation of these awards is made possible through the fundraising efforts of the students and members who have toiled diligently throughout the school year. The winners are selected based upon their school achievements in the past four years, demonstration of their learned skills, and consensus review by their principal instructors.

The $1,000 Music Boosters Scholarships were awarded to Jett Stevens and Vivien Terselic.

Andrew and Marie McAuley Memorial Scholarship

The Andrew and Marie McAuley Memorial Scholarship is awarded to a graduating senior member of the Loveland High School Chamber Orchestra. The scholarship is sponsored by Megan Pedicini, LHS Class of 2019, in memory of her maternal grandparents who dedicated their lives to hard work and the service of others. An orphan from age seven, Andrew was able to further his higher education through the synthesis of his own perseverance and the athletic and academic scholarships he was fortunate to receive at the generosity of others. Marie, whose father was a pianist before immigrating to the U.S., found great joy and meaning in the tones of the piano, and it is her genuine love for music that motivated Megan to engage in music of her own. Megan created this scholarship to recognize those students committed to excellence in both academics and music.

A word from Megan Pedicini

On behalf of Megan Pedicini, LHS Class of 2019, I would like to present the Andrew & Marie McAuley Memorial Scholarship. Andrew and Marie dedicated their lives to hard work and the service of others, and each of them displayed a genuine love for music that inspired and enabled their children and grandchildren to pursue music of their own. A $1,000 scholarship is dedicated in their name to recognize students committed to excellence in academics and music in the chamber orchestra at LHS.

The $1,000 Andrew and Marie McAuley Memorial Scholarship was awarded to Simon Grome.

Loveland Stage Company Creative Arts Scholarship

The Loveland Stage Company Creative Arts Scholarship is awarded to a high school graduate who resides in the Loveland City School District, or attends Loveland High School, or is the offspring of a Loveland Stage Company member. The Loveland Stage Company wishes to encourage and support local young talent by awarding this scholarship to a senior planning to further their education in pursuit of a career in the Creative Arts. They must also have demonstrated the ability to succeed academically in college, by being in the top third of their graduating class.

The $1,000 Loveland Stage Company Creative Arts Scholarship was awarded to Jett Stevens.

Kovacs Family Foundation Drama Scholarship

The Kovacs Family Foundation Drama Scholarship is presented through the Loveland Music Boosters to a graduating senior who has participated in the Loveland High School Drama program.

A $1,000 Kovacs Family Foundation Drama Scholarship was awarded to Vivien Terselic.

LHS Ski & Snowboard Club Scholarship

The LHS Ski & Snowboard Club Scholarship recognizes and honors outstanding club members for their high scholastic achievements and active participation.

A $500 LHS Ski & Snowboard Scholarship was awarded to Sofia Dillhoff, Drew Moore, and Benjamin Wenger.

Dawn DeHart Memorial Scholarship

This Scholarship is in memory of Dawn DeHart, who graduated from Loveland High School in 1983. Dawn was athletically involved at Loveland and the Montana State University, setting many records in Track and Field that still stand today. She was also a member of the National Honor Society. Dawn was friendly, outgoing, and had a great work ethic. This award personifies the attributes of Dawn DeHart.

The $500 Dawn DeHart Memorial Scholarship was awarded to Zoe Ott.

Loveland Youth Football and Cheerleading Scholarship

The Loveland Youth Football and Cheerleading Scholarships are awarded to one senior football player and one senior cheer organization member, each pursuing higher education. Academic achievement and community involvement are considered.

A $1,000 Loveland Youth Football and Cheerleading Scholarships were awarded to Megan Korniak and Ben Morrison.

Loveland Youth Basketball Association Scholarship

The Loveland Youth Basketball Association Scholarship is awarded for participation in the LYBA program. Loveland Youth Basketball honors scholarship and encourages an athlete to be well rounded in their school and in community activities. LYBA hopes that through athletics our recipient has benefited by learning lifelong lessons on and off the court.

The $1,000 Loveland Youth Basketball Association Scholarship was awarded to Samantha James.

Loveland Youth Soccer Association Scholarship

The LYSA Scholarship is awarded annually to two graduating high school seniors from the Loveland area who played, refereed and/or volunteered for Loveland Youth Soccer Association (including Loveland Storm Football Club). The recipients are determined by essays describing how LYSA has positively influenced their lives.

A $500 Loveland Youth Soccer Association Scholarship was awarded to Jeremy Massung and Clara Planner.

Loveland Athletic Boosters – Stanley L. McCoy Sr. Scholarship

The Stanley L. McCoy Sr. Scholarship is in honor of Stan McCoy, Sr. for his outstanding contribution to the Loveland City Schools and for his dedication to the children of Loveland. Throughout his distinguished career, Mr. McCoy served as Assistant Superintendent, an LHS Assistant Principal, Athletic Director, teacher, football coach, mentor and friend. Mr. McCoy’s love, dedication and support to the athletes in Loveland will continue through this scholarship presented in his name. This scholarship is funded through donations to the Stanley L. McCoy, Sr. Scholarship Fund in conjunction with the Loveland Athletic Boosters.

A $1,000 Stanley L. McCoy Sr. Scholarship was awarded to Clara Planner and Cole Harter.

Loveland Athletic Boosters – Robert M. Williams Scholarship

This scholarship is in honor of Robert M. Williams for his contribution within the Loveland community. Mr. Williams served the community in many capacities. But his love of people and his involvement for athletics for his children, grandchildren and friends will live on with this scholarship. Robert M. Williams always knew the score of life and was dedicated to the individuals within these sports and not always the scoreboard. The Robert M. Williams Scholarship is for all Senior Athletes and Senior Sport Managers within the Loveland High School Athletic Department. As a reflection of how “Bob” lived his life, the recipient should possess a strong moral character that is reflected by their leadership, school spirit and positive attitude toward their teammates and coaches.

A $1,000 Robert M. Williams Scholarship was awarded to Anna Svitkovich and Sean McElveen.

Loveland Athletic Boosters Scholarship

The Loveland Athletic Boosters awards scholarships to graduating boy and girl student-athletes from Loveland High School. The recipients have competed at the varsity level for at least two years, have exhibited good sportsmanship and citizenship, and have shown the ability to succeed in the scholastic or technical area as indicated by grades, attitude and determination. This award is given to individuals who have shown the greatest improvement in his/her overall performance both in the classroom and on the field.

A $1,000 Loveland Athletic Boosters Scholarship was awarded to Jacob Cotsonas, Carson Deer, Zoe DeWitt, Erin Dickman, Samantha James, and Katlyn Kramer.

Athletic Department Awards

OHSAA Scholar Athlete Award

As part of the continuous quest to promote and encourage the pursuit of excellence in the classroom, the OHSAA Scholar Athlete Award is awarded to a senior boy and a senior girl with the highest GPA and who has received a minimum combined 4 varsity letters in at least 2 varsity sports.

The recipients of this award were Kaitlyn Andrews and Collin Hedgepeth.

OHSAA Archie Griffin Sportsmanship Award

The Ohio High School Athletic Association “Archie Griffin Sportsmanship Award” is presented to high school student-athletes who promoted and displayed exemplary sportsmanship while participating in interscholastic athletics.

The recipients of this award were Jillian Hayes, and Jacob Cotsonas.

The OHSAA/NFHS Award of Excellence

The National Federation of High Schools and the OHSAA have combined to sponsor an Award of Excellence to be presented to senior athletes who exhibit qualities that embody exemplary sportsmanship, ethics, and integrity.

The recipients of this award were Claire Massey and Nate Holman.

Courageous Student Award

The Courageous Student Award is given to a student who has overcome adversity and displayed tremendous courage against overwhelming odds to get themselves back on the playing field of competition.

The recipient of this award was Kate Garry.

Academic Pins and Medals

An ACADEMIC PIN is granted for an average of 3.5 to 3.99

A BRONZE medal is granted for an average of 4.0 or higher for the first time

A SILVER medal is granted for an average of 4.0 or higher for the second time

A GOLD medal is granted for an average of 4.0 or higher for the third time

Also watch this video Introducing the honors awarded the LHS Class of 2020

May 16, 2020
Treasurer Hawley talks about State funding reductions for the Loveland District
Loveland, Ohio – The first week of May, Ohio Governor Mike DeWine announced budget cuts to balance the State budget.

Loveland City School District Treasurer Kevin Hawley

Due to the economic impact of COVID-19, Governor DeWine said that $775 million in reductions to Ohio’s General Revenue Fund are needed for the remainder of the Fiscal Year 2020 which ends on June 30.

DeWine said that Ohio is mandated to balance its budget each year, and in addition to identifying areas of savings, the following budget reductions will be made for the next two months:
- - Medicaid – $210 million
  - K12 Foundation Payment Reduction – $300 million
  - Other Education Budget Line Items – $55 million
  - Higher Education – $110 million
  - All Other Agencies – $100 million
Loveland Magazine reached out to the Loveland City School District Treasurer Kevin Hawley asking him to comment on the impact of the State cutting revenue to the District.

Thank you for reaching out. I can confirm pieces of this information. For your convenience, I have attached the list from The Ohio Department of Education (ODE) outlining the data for all districts in the state of Ohio. (K-12_Education (2)-1) The amount of the state revenue reduction is $1,010,855. The percentage you are referencing is how much the reduction in revenue is to our ODE calculated overall operating expenditures as stated on the form attached. The percentage decrease of our state revenue for this year is just below 8% and is a decrease of 2% from our overall operating revenue.

The current state funding cuts are for this fiscal year (July 2019 – June 2020) and will be deducted in the next couple months on our last three state payments. School districts receive their annual state revenue in 24 payments, twice a month. We have been instructed that these payments will be taken out equally from our second May payment and both of our payments in June to finish out the fiscal year. At this point in time there is not clarification from the state of Ohio as to whether there will be further revenue cuts for next year. The state’s budget is primarily funded through sales and income tax and those numbers are announced monthly around the 10^th of every month. I have not seen the April numbers at this point in time but my guess is that this current reduction is due to those numbers being much lower than projected pre-COVID. The May and June reports on sales and income tax revenue will be very revealing for how the state’s budget may be impacted next year and ultimately how that impacts K-12 education.

The Governor has stated that there is federal funding that may benefit local school districts. At the present time, there is approximately $300k in additional money through the state from the CARES Act. Ultimately, this will help with the reductions in state funding but does not close the gap.

We were anticipating news of potential revenue cuts from the state but were unsure of the size or which fiscal year it would impact. We are always evaluating ways to make our district more efficient and find ways to save and we will continue to do that work. Having just received the specific amount of the revenue cuts Wednesday morning (May 6) we were not factoring this decrease into the budget for next year’s planning and the Board of Education has not had the opportunity to discuss any potential cuts due to this. As we work through the overall financial impact and implications of this budget reduction, recently failed levy and other factors due to COVID-19 the Board will discuss if any future budget cuts are necessary.
May 15, 2020
[Video] Loveland School Board meeting of April 30

Loveland, Ohio – The Loveland Board of Education met on April 30.

Here is the meeting agenda: BoardDocs® Pro

Here are the LOVELAND MAGAZINE TV videos – Part 1 and 2.

May 7, 2020
The LHS 2020 “Safe” Graduation will be May 23

WHO

LHS CLASS OF 2020

WHY

Award Diplomas and honor the accomplishments of LHS graduates

Loveland, Ohio – Loveland High School (LHS) has announced a “Structured and Controlled In-Person Graduation Ceremony” for the Class of 2020. The commencement ceremony will be held on the day originally scheduled. It will be held at Loveland High School.

“The Class of 2020 deserves to have the most memorable ceremony possible given the current circumstances,” said LHS Principal Peggy Johnson. “While this is not the traditional ceremony that we had envisioned for our seniors when we started out this school year, we feel it is the most personal of all options given us by the Ohio Department of Education.”

EVENTS

May 13 – Drive Through Cap and Gown Distribution

Graduates will be given an appointment time and remain in their cars for the entire process. All LHS staff members will be wearing face masks and will adhere to health and safety guidelines. Any items or materials distributed to graduates will be sanitized and quarantined for at least 72 hours prior to distribution. Graduates will receive their rental gown, cap, and tassel. Graduates earning cords will receive them.

May 13 – Virtual Senior Awards Ceremony

The LHS staff will “host” the ceremony as if speaking to a packed house in the auditorium.

The goal is to honor the accomplishments the graduates have achieved. “Unfortunately, we are not able to hold our traditional Senior Awards Ceremony honoring students for a variety of accomplishments to include our Valedictorian, Salutatorian, Top 10 of the class, scholarship winners, military accolades, academic medals and pins, and much more.” This ceremony is also typically the night many “Local” scholarships are announced.

This year, the Class of 2020 will be celebrated virtually. The LHS staff will “host” the ceremony as if speaking to the usually packed house in the LHS auditorium during this annual event. The event will be video recorded and shared. “Our hope is that we can release it later in the day on May 13 so you can view it that evening.” As in the past, scholarship winners are not announced until the evening of the ceremony so most of what will be announced is a surprise.

May 23 – “Single Family In-Person” graduation ceremony

Graduation will be held on May 23, the originally scheduled date.

Families will be called into the Ron DeWitt auditorium at the High School one-by-one (no more than 10 people total including the school administrators). Graduates are permitted to bring 4 guests. The student walks across the stage, receives a diploma and their 4 guests remain in the general seating area.

Graduation speeches by school officials, student speakers, and musical performances will be recorded prior to the ceremony.

The entire graduation ceremony will be video recorded and shared.

Graduates and their families will exit the auditorium through a side door that will lead them to the cafeteria where they will return their rental graduation gown. The student and guests return back to their vehicle.

Any items or materials distributed to graduates will be sanitized and quarantined for at least 72 hours prior to distribution.

May 5, 2020
Loveland Board of Education to fill 2 Vacancies
Loveland, Ohio – Loveland City School District board member Art Jarvis did not attend the April 30 Board meeting but instead resigned before it started. At the beginning of the meeting, President Kathy Lorenz read a letter Jarvis sent to the Board. You can watch a video clip of her reading the letter below.

Board member Ned Portune attended the meeting and resigned his position after it was over. You can read the statement he sent to Loveland Magazine the next morning below.

Both resignations were effective immediately and follow the apparent overwhelming defeat a vote on an operating levy announced the day before. (Loveland Levy apparently fails by wide margin)

According to a press release issued by the District the day after the meeting, the vacancies are expected to be filled at the May 12 board meeting.

The release also said that the board is now seeking candidates to replace Jarvis and Portune. It says that applicants should submit a “notice of interest” by Email to Treasurer Kevin Hawley (hawleyke@lovelandschools.org) by 5 PM on Monday, May 4.

Applicants should include biographical information, address, affirmation of voter registration, and a short statement describing qualifications and reasons for filling the role of Board Member of the Loveland City School District. Both of these positions would be for service through December 2021.

Remaining Board members are Dr. Kathryn Lorenz, Board President, Michele Pettit, and Eileen Washburn.
For Immediate Release. 5/1/2020

It is with sadness that I acknowledge my departure from the Loveland City Schools Board of Education. My resignation is for personal reasons, and should not be interpreted as a negative reflection of my faith in, and support of, the district leadership.

As I have said previously, students and teachers alike can’t be successful if they aren’t in the right culture of care, support, learning, and high expectations set by their administrators. And as such, our administrative team and educational staff have raised the bar of expectations at Loveland well beyond “average.” The improvements our district has experienced, and the achievements our students have accomplished over the past several years have been tremendous. Superintendent Dr. Amy Crouse and Treasurer Kevin Hawley are tireless champions for our students, and perform their roles with exceptional grace and integrity, as do Dr. Kathy Lorentz and the rest of the Board. I am grateful to have worked with this team.

As community members, we should all take pride in what we have accomplished together over the past several years, and the reputation for excellence that has been achieved by our schools. This success is only possible with support. I know I am proud to have been a part of a list that includes:

moving key state report card grades to A and B from C, D and F,

improving from 433rd (out of 610 districts) to 22nd in ODE’s Value Added rankings,

LES students performing on average 20% higher than the State average in Reading/Math for AIR and exceeding MAP projections, on average, at 20% higher than the National average,

100% of all third graders meeting the Third Grade Reading Guarantee for 3 consecutive years,

LIS students scoring 20% higher than the state average in 3 of 5 areas, and 15% higher in all 5,

8th grade foreign language curriculum increasing from 150 students receiving HS credit to 227 students, and foreign language exposure in 7th grade increasing from 0 students to 185,

LHS increasing AP offerings to 24 courses serving 428 students, up from 291 in 2016, and our students earning AP Honor Roll for 2 years (a distinction given only to the top 3% of districts in the US and Canada), with 80% scoring a 3 or higher,

Over 40% of our LHS seniors earning college credit through AP or CCP offerings,

LHS adding 20 new elective offerings, and adding Transition to Work programming with multiple community sites,

Developing 6-12 College and Career counseling programming, and adding class-leading Teaching, Business and IT programs,

LHS ranking in Cincinnati Magazine improving to 8th out of 80 local high schools, and receiving the Momentum Award from ODE for the last three years.

And this doesn’t begin to address the improvements in gifted and special education services, social-emotional support improvements, or individual awards and accolades our students and teachers themselves have received across all of our schools. Add to that the readiness and excellent implementation of remote learning which has kept our students learning during a time no one could have predicted. Our administrators and educators have truly moved the bar higher for our students, and we should all celebrate that accomplishment.

Today, the district, its staff, students, and parents are entering an unprecedented time in our history. The right thing to do is to be positive, helpful and supportive in keeping our schools operational and our students successful. I believe we as a community will do that moving forward.

It has been an honor and privilege to have had the opportunity to serve our schools and this great community with this Board. I will continue to be a fervent supporter of Loveland Schools and our students.

-Ned Portune
May 3, 2020
U. S. News: Best High Schools in Ohio
U. S. News has released its annual report on the nation’s high schools.

Ohio had 732 school districts supporting 902 high schools in the 2017-18 academic year. Students are assessed via mathematics and English proficiency tests.

Loveland High School is ranked 55th within Ohio out of 902 schools.

Ohio high school students must earn at least 20 credits in various subjects, including four credits of English language arts, four of math, three of science, and three of social studies. High schoolers in Ohio must also learn economics and financial literacy to graduate, as well as take two or more semesters of fine arts, according to the Ohio Department of Education.

How U. S. News Rank the Best High Schools »

Quick Stats for Loveland H.S.

Grades

9-12

Total Enrollment

1,443

Student-Teacher Ratio

18:1

Overview of Loveland High School

Loveland High School is ranked 55th within Ohio. Students have the opportunity to take Advanced Placement coursework and exams. The AP participation rate at Loveland High School is 50%. The total minority enrollment is 7%, and 11% of students are economically disadvantaged.

#1,745 in National Rankings

Overall Score 90.19/100

Top Ranked Cincinnati Metro Area Schools
Top Ranked Ohio Schools
1. 1. #1Ottawa Hills High School
  2. #2 Walnut Hills High School
  3. #3 Bexley High School
  4. #4 Solon High School
  5. #5 Indian Hill High School
  6. #6 Wyoming High School
  7. #7 Chagrin Falls High School
  8. #8 Mariemont High School
  9. #9 Dublin Jerome High School
  10. #10 William Mason High School
  11. # 14 Turpin High School
May 3, 2020
Loveland Levy apparently fails by wide margin

Loveland, Ohio – With “Summary/Unofficial” results, the Loveland City School District operating levy of 6.95 mills is failing in all three counties as of 6:30 AM Wednesday morning.

All mail-in ballots and provisional ballots will still have to be tabulated in the days to come. The mail-in ballots needed a postmark of April 27, so some of those ballots will still have to be received from the Post Office. Validly cast provisional ballots also will need to be tabulated.

Hamilton County says they will need 2-3 weeks to publish final results.

Clermont County

YES – 1,988

NO – 2,741

Hamilton County

YES – 1780

NO – 2921

Warren County

YES 76

NO 104

TOTAL

YES – 3844

NO – 5766

In a statement posted on the District web site, Superintendent Dr. Amy Crouse said, “We accept the outcome and respect the decision voters made, but this is a devastating loss for our schools. At this time of national and global uncertainty, we will also prepare to start the new school year in August with a significantly reduced budget, which will directly impact programs, class size, and services to our students. In addition, we will have to start preparing to go back on the ballot. This is unfortunately how school funding works in Ohio.”

As of this morning, the “Loveland Voice” Political Action Committee has not issued a statement only posting preliminary results on their FaceBook page. Loveland Voice had organized to actively oppose the levy.

The District statement also said:

In addition to the $2.7 million in expense reductions already made in 2019, significant cuts will be made to the operating budget in the coming months. These reductions include, among others, the elimination of at least 25 administrative, teaching and non-teaching staff positions, and the elimination of high school busing.

“Yes for Loveland” the Political Action Committee supporting the school levy posted this message on their FaceBook page 3 hours ago:

According to current results, it appears the Loveland Community has voted to NOT pass the Operating Levy. Official results will be reported in 2 – 3 weeks.

We appreciate all of your hard work and support this year. We understand we have to rally together once again to find the answer to funding the district for our children. We will do this together.

Seeing the out pour of love for one another and the care of our community gives us all hope in this time of a pandemic. Continue to support and take care of one another. We’re all in this together!

Apr 29, 2020
[Exclusive Video] April 7 meeting of the Loveland Board of Education
Loveland, Ohio – On April 7 the Loveland Board of Education held a work session using a remote meeting platform.

Here is a re-play of the meeting.

AGENDA

1.1 Adoption of Board Agenda

1.2 Pledge of Allegiance

2. Superintendent Discussion Topics

2.1 Progress Report on Building Closure Due to COVID-19

2.2 Planning Commission
3. Superintendent Resolutions

3.1 Resolution declaring an emergency, suspending board policy related to public participation at board meetings, and authorizing remote meetings

A RESOLUTION DECLARING AN EMERGENCY, SUSPENDING BOARD POLICY RELATED TO PUBLIC PARTICIPATION AT BOARD MEETINGS, AND AUTHORIZING REMOTE MEETINGS

WHEREAS, COVID-19 is a respiratory disease that can result in serious illness or death, is caused by the SARS-C0V-2 virus, which is a new strain of coronavirus that had not been previously identified in humans and can easily spread from person to person between individuals who are in close contact with each other (within about 6 feet) through respiratory droplets produced when an infected persons coughs or sneezes. It may also be possible to contract COVID-19 through the touching of a surface that has the virus on it then touching one’s own mouth, nose or eyes; and

WHEREAS, the Governor has declared a state of emergency with respect to the spread of the novel coronavirus; and

WHEREAS, the Director of the Ohio Department of Health has ordered that all K-12 schools be closed to students through 11:59 p.m. on May 1, 2020, and this order may be extended beyond that date; and

WHEREAS, the Ohio Department of Health has further ordered residents of the state to stay at home except to conduct essential business and prohibits public or private gatherings of more than ten individuals occurring outside a single household; and

WHEREAS, House Bill 197 was enacted on March 27, 2020 as an emergency measure which was designed to assist schools and other public bodies to maintain operations during this health emergency in a way that complies with orders issued by the state and federal government; and

WHEREAS, in order to permit the fair and orderly expression of public comment at its meetings, the Board has adopted a public participation policy; and

WHEREAS, while the Board intends to continue to conduct the business of Loveland City Schools and to keep the community informed of its discussions and decisions related to the official business of the District, the Board must also act to protect the health and safety of its members, staff, students and other community members who may enter on to school premises.

NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, by the Board of Education of the Loveland City School District, that after careful consideration and evaluation of the information before it:

Section 1. The Board of Education hereby finds that an emergency exists with regard to the spread of a serious communicable disease, COVID-19.

Section 2. In order to prevent against the further spread of the novel coronavirus, the Board of Education hereby temporarily suspends its public participation policy, which shall no longer be in effect upon adoption of this Resolution by a majority of the Board. Such policy may be reinstated through a subsequent action taken by the Board of Education.

Section 3.In order to enable the Board of Education to continue with District operations during the public health emergency,the Board of Education may meet telephonically or through other electronic means, including conference calls or other meeting technology to conduct the public business of the public body while emergency orders of the federal and/or state government are in effect limiting public gatherings. Members will be considered present regardless of whether they attend in person or remotely, and their votes shall be counted for the purpose of determining quorum. Such meetings will be properly noticed to the public through the established and usual method of notice to the public.

SECTION 4. In order to provide an opportunity for attendance by the public, news media, and any other person that has requested notification of meetings via the technology utilized will be made available to the extent reasonably possible and feasible. The means of technology and information on how to access the meeting as a member of the public will be made available. The Board of Education intends to fully honor its obligations under the Open Meetings Act (R.C. §121.22) through measures approved by House Bill 197 (2020).

Section 5. The Board of Education hereby finds and determines that all formal actions relative to the adoption of this resolution were taken in an open meeting of this Board of Education, and that all deliberations of this Board of Education and of its committees, if any, which resulted in formal action, were taken in meetings open to the public, in full compliance with applicable legal requirements, including Section 121.22, ORC and House Bill 197 (2020).

Section 6. This resolution shall be in full force and effect from and immediately after its adoption and shall supersede any prior resolution or act of this Board of Education that may be inconsistent or duplicative with the provisions of this resolution.
3.2 Resolution for a Contingency Plan for the 2019-2020 school year in the event school is closed for more than the hours permitted under board policy and state law

CONTINGENCY PLAN

FOR THE 2019-2020 SCHOOL YEAR

IN THE EVENT SCHOOL IS CLOSED

FOR MORE THAN THE HOURS PERMITTED UNDER

BOARD POLICY AND STATE LAW

WHEREAS, Ohio Revised Code §3313.48 mandates that a school district must be open for instruction with pupils in attendance for a minimum number of hours each school year; and

WHEREAS, R.C. §3313.482 authorizes a board of education to adopt a plan that permits students to make up missed hours of instruction via online/remote learning in the event that schools are closed for a disease epidemic or other reasons; and

WHEREAS, House Bill 197 (2020), which was enacted on March 27, 2020 in response to the COVID-19 pandemic health emergency, authorizes the Loveland City School District Board of Education (the “Board”) to adopt a plan to provide for online learning opportunities for students to make up an unlimited number of hours in lieu of attendance on days when buildings are not open to students during the 2019-2020 school year in compliance with any order issued by the Ohio Director of Health and/or a local board of health; and

WHEREAS, the Board has developed a contingency plan in accordance with R.C. §3313.482 under which district students will make up any time missed through online instruction/remote learning that caused the district to fall below the minimum number of hours of instruction required by section 3313.48 of the Ohio Revised Code and Board Policy; and

WHEREAS, the Board desires to adopt said plan; and

WHEREAS, House Bill 197 (2020) also permits the Board to adjust the student grading criteria and the Board has determined it necessary to modify the method for student promotion and retention during this crisis.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the Board of Education of the Loveland City School District that:

SECTION I

Pursuant to R.C. §3313.482 and House Bill 197 (2020), the Board hereby authorizes the following plan to allow students of the Loveland City School District to access and complete online/remote lessons in order to fulfill the required number of hours during the 2019-2020 school year:

Each teacher shall develop a sufficient number of lessons for the days and hours of closure.

Teachers will submit the lessons to the building principal for approval. The building principal will certify that the lessons are equal to or greater than the amount of instructional time the student missed.

As soon as practicable, the appropriate administrator will direct staff about how to make lessons available through a District approved website or other technology portal.

The teacher will be responsible for posting the lessons online.

Teachers will regularly assess the progress of students and will update or replace such lessons as necessary throughout the remainder of the school year based on the results of the assessments.

For students who experience difficulty accessing the online material or who do not have access to a computer, the Board hereby authorizes “blizzard bags” as needed, which are paper copies of the lessons/assignments posted. Teachers shall prepare paper copies approximating the content of the online lessons and shall update such paper copies when updating any of the online lessons. Blizzard bags will be distributed by school personnel or during scheduled pick up times. Printed copies of any graded lessons or assignments will be included in the blizzard bags.

This plan was shared with the teacher’s employee representative.

SECTION II

Should circumstances warrant a change in the plan during the 2019-2020 school year, this contingency plan may be amended by the Superintendent at any time in his or her discretion.

SECTION III

In order to provide appropriate educational opportunities to students through alternative methods, to allow promotion from grade-to-grade, and so not as to penalize students who determine to complete assignments through the offered alternative means, the Board temporarily suspends current Board Policy 5421 on the award of letter grades, which shall no longer be in effect upon adoption of this Resolution by a majority of the Board. Such policy may be reinstated through a subsequent action taken by the Board. Any other Board Policy that is inconsistent with the action taken within Sections III and IV of this Resolution shall also be temporarily suspended until such time as Board Policy 5421 is reinstated.

SECTION IV

The Board authorizes the Superintendent and School Administration to develop and implement a system of pass/not pass grading for each course in grades 5-8 within the Loveland City Schools instructional program until such time as the Board restores the grading policy.

SECTION V

IT IS FOUND AND DETERMINED that all formal action of this Board concerning or related to the adoption of this Resolution was adopted in an open meeting of this Board, and all deliberations of this Board that resulted in such formal action were adopted in meetings open to the public, in compliance with all applicable requirements of the Ohio Revised Code.
3.3 Resolution delegating authority for determining it impracticable or impossible to evaluate employees due to COVID-19

RESOLUTION DELEGATING AUTHORITY FOR DETERMINING IT IMPRACTICABLE OR IMPOSSIBLE TO EVALUATE EMPLOYEES

DUE TO COVID-19

WHEREAS, Board of Education of the Loveland City School District (the “Board”) employees are annually evaluated in accordance with Ohio statues and Board policies; and

WHEREAS, an Order of School Closure was issued by Ohio Department of Health Director Acton on March 14, 2020 and in response to the Order of School closure, House Bill 197 (2020) was enacted on March 27, 2020; and

WHEREAS, language contained in HB 197 (2020) permits the Board to elect not to evaluate employees when it is deemed impossible or impractical to do so based on the implications of COVID-19.

NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, by the Board of Education of the Loveland City School District:

SECTION I

For the 2019-2020 school year, due to the Director of Health’s March 14^th Order, or any extension of an order to close all kindergarten through 12th grade schools, and the language of House Bill 197 (2020), the Board hereby delegates authority to the Superintendent, Treasurer, or their individual designees to determine and deem it impossible or impracticable to conduct an evaluation of Board employees in accordance with the Ohio Revised Code and Board policies.

SECTION II

It is found and determined that all formal actions of this Board concerning or related to the adoption of this Resolution were adopted in an open meeting of this Board, and all deliberations of this Board and any of its committees that resulted in such formal actions were adopted in meetings open to the public, in compliance with all applicable requirements of the Ohio Revised Code.

3.4 Approve rescheduling of Board Meetings

Move the April 21, 2020 Board of Education Business Meeting to April 30, 2020

Move the May 5, 2020 Board of Education Work Session to May 12, 2020

Move the May 19, 2020 Board of Education Business Meeting to May 28, 2020

These meetings will all be conducted in a virtual format due to the extension of the “Stay at Home” order signed on 4/2/2020.

4. Treasurer Discussion Topics

4.1 Costs Related to the Building Closure Due to COVID-19

5. Treasurer Resolutions

5.1 Recommend to refund tuition for full day kindergarten for 50% of March and 100% for April

6. Meeting Closing

6.1 Adjournment
Apr 15, 2020
Should Loveland school taxes increase while residents Lose their livelihoods?
by Kim and Rick Donaldson

While many in Loveland are losing their jobs and their businesses, our school board persists in asking us to raise our taxes. As it stands today, they may very well get their way simply by virtue of low voter turnout. So, if you

Kim and Rick Donaldson live on Paxton Road in Miami Township

haven’t already done so, apply for an absentee ballot now. The primary election originally scheduled for March 17^th is now by mail only. Completed ballots must be postmarked no later than midnight, April 27^th or dropped off at your county board of elections by 7:00 PM April 28^th. Since you will first need to apply to have a ballot mailed to you, there is no time to lose.

Now back to the original question: should our school taxes be increased? We are told that additional funding is needed to “protect our progress”. This would imply that past increases have improved district performance. However, according to Ohio Department of Education data, Loveland’s overall performance index score ranked in the top 15% of Ohio schools from 2010 through 2014, with correspondingly high overall grades. In 2015, Loveland’s performance dropped precipitously, nearly to the bottom 25%. Various explanations have been floated for this drop: Common Core implementation, testing changes, students opting out of testing, etc. Available data do not definitively show what the explanation is, but it does show what it isn’t: spending. Referring to the first chart, note that Loveland’s 2019 overall performance is virtually identical to its 2010 to 2014 performance, but expenditure per pupil is as much as 20% higher after adjusting for inflation. Also note that Loveland’s performance had already recovered to pre-2015 levels by 2018, before the big ramp-up in expenditure.

Graph provided by Kim and Rick Donaldson

Since increased funding doesn’t seem to be improving our district’s rating, it is difficult to see exactly what progress we are protecting. Moreover, if we are to invest more of our hard-earned and increasingly scarce money in the schools, we expect to reap some benefit as a community. So far, our children don’t seem to have reaped the benefit of a better education and our property owners haven’t reaped the benefit of the appreciation that should result from a better-rated school system. However, there is one segment of the community who has reaped the benefit: teachers.

According to Ohio Department of Education data, presented in the second chart, Loveland’s average teacher salary was $63,566 in 2010, which was about average for an Ohio school district with similar demographics among both the community and the teachers. In 2019, Loveland’s average teacher salary had increased to $78,248, 10% above the comparable Ohio district average. Loveland’s average teacher salary has also risen faster than median income. In 2010, the average teacher salary was 28% above median income. By 2019 it had risen to 47% above median income. While some might argue that paying teachers more improves educational quality, Loveland’s teacher salary and performance trends do not support that claim. Statistical analysis of statewide trends also shows no practical benefit for paying teachers above-market salaries.

Graph provided by Kim and Rick Donaldson

We do not question the quality, dedication or professionalism of Loveland teachers. Nor do we fault them for negotiating the most favorable compensation package they can. It is the responsibility of the board of education and administration to negotiate effectively on behalf of the Loveland community at large to deliver a high-quality education at a cost we can afford. Sadly, they do not seem to be doing an adequate job of cost control at a time when residents cannot afford to pay more.

While no one knows how severe the current economic downturn will be or how long it will last, we do know the proposed levy will cost property owners an additional $20 per month for each $100,000 of appraised value, forever. Under the circumstances, it would be appropriate for the Loveland School Board to withdraw the levy, and we wholeheartedly agree with those who have already called on them to do so. However, the board’s past behavior indicates they are unlikely to heed those calls. The only way we can stop this levy and impose fiscally responsibility is to get an absentee ballot and vote no.

References:
1. Elections and Voting in Ohio, Ohio Secretary of State website: https://www.sos.state.oh.us/elections/voters
2. Ohio Department of Education District Profile (Cupp) Reports: http://education.ohio.gov/Topics/Finance-and-Funding/School-Payment-Reports/District-Profile-Reports
3. Ohio Department of Education District Achievement/Rating Data: https://reportcard.education.ohio.gov/download
4. US Bureau of Labor Statistics CPI Inflation Calculator:
  https://www.bls.gov/data/inflation_calculator.htm
5. Ohio Department of Education District Teacher Information: https://reportcard.education.ohio.gov/download
Apr 13, 2020