On November 15, 2017, the Ohio Hi-Point Career Center Board of Education voted unanimously to place a 0.6-mill permanent improvement issue on the May 8, 2018 ballot. During the December 13, 2017 meeting, in the second of two votes required by legal process, the Board unanimously accepted the certificate of the county auditor and approved a resolution declaring intent to proceed with the permanent improvement issue to renovate the career center’s 43-year old building to provide students advanced technical training for 21st century jobs.
The issue, which is the first time in 40 years the district has placed an issue on the ballot, will cost taxpayers $1.84 a month, or $22 a year, per $100,000 of a home’s assessed market value.
The permanent improvement issue is needed to offer enhanced lab-learning classes in fields that have local jobs to be filled, such as healthcare and skilled manufacturing, as well as create new learning spaces so additional training can be offered. The issue is also needed to make repairs and improvements to prolong the use of the existing building.
The Board has been discussing a plan to meet the demand for skilled workers in emerging jobs throughout the district’s communities and adjust and adapt to the ever-changing technology needs for the past few years. Students who attend Ohio Hi-Point can receive professional certifications needed for the modern-day workforce, and earn college credit for completed coursework.
The district is responsible with taxpayer resources and in the district’s day-to-day operations. In the last 20 years, the career center has lived within its means while growing by more than 3,500 students.
“We know how important it is ensuring every student has a plan, whether for employment or continuing education. Preparing today’s students for tomorrow’s successes through advanced technical and skills training will continue to help grow our own local economy,” said superintendent Dr. Rick Smith. “This permanent improvement issue will provide funds for renovations on the Bellefontaine Main Campus and increase technology, tools, and equipment within the district's satellite programs needed for today's modern-day workforce,” stated Smith.