- The Auditor of State released an audit of one of Ohio’s largest online schools. There were some findings regarding inappropriate travel reimbursement. Two staffers have already reimbursed the school. Why is this news? It’s not. But that doesn’t stop the Big D’s Education Insider team from wringing it for all its worth, with a heaping helping of unnecessary smarm. (Columbus Dispatch) The more matter-of-fact version can be found in Gongwer. Meanwhile, in a small school district near Springfield, actual crime appears to have occurred. Do take note of how the local press is handling that story, which has been developing for a week or so. (Springfield News Sun)
- Speaking of money, here’s something that any number of schools (district, charter, STEM, private, whatever) might want to take note of. The board of Granville Schools recently passed a resolution establishing “cash balance guidelines” for the district that set a cash reserve target of no less than 10 percent of annual revenue. Any time balances go below that level for two consecutive months, the treasurer must prepare a report as to why and include options for cuts to offset. Nice. (Newark Advocate)
- I have now twice confessed to not understanding the point of Public Broadcasting’s “American Graduate” program, which rolled (seemingly unhelpfully) through Cleveland a couple of weeks ago. Even after doing some outside digging, I don’t get it. Students who are at risk of not graduating high school are – I’m pretty sure – aware of their position. They are also – I’m pretty sure – aware of the difference between graduating and not graduating on their future life prospects. Outsiders rolling up to point this out to students without offering concrete avenues for support and assistance which already exist around them is non-productive and pointless. But enough of my carping. How about the antidote: a young man in Berea who was given actual support, assistance, and one-to-one mentorship via Realizing Your Potential program. That’s what’s really out there for students. More of this, please, and less empty cheerleading. (Cleveland Plain Dealer)
- Speaking of students defying the odds against them, here’s a great story of a student from Youngstown with autism who has made a successful transition from high school to college at YSU. The details of support given to this young man by teachers, fellow students, staff, family, coaches, and the community are likely to be the blueprint for success for many students with autism. His own sheer hard work and determination are palpable, even if statistics show that he’s still got more difficulties to face to successfully transition into the work world. But that’s down the road. Here’s hoping that every student with autism receives all that he needs to get successfully to this point. (Youngstown Vindicator)
