The Vermilion Local Schools Board of Education met Monday, December 8, 2025, at Vermilion High School, marking the final board meeting for longtime member Chris Habermehl while also approving financial reports, policy updates, and hearing from students and community members.
Habermehl, who served on the board for 13 years, was formally recognized at the start of the meeting. Board leadership thanked him for his commitment to students and the district, noting that his decisions consistently centered on long-term educational outcomes.
In brief remarks, Habermehl reflected on how he came to serve and why the role ultimately felt like the right fit.
“I believe everything happens for a reason,” Habermehl said. “About 13 years ago, I messed up a petition to run for city council. I didn’t fill it out right and it was disqualified. Right after that, I was appointed to the board of education. I think it all happened for the right reason. This is where I was supposed to be.”
He added that the experience was meaningful both personally and professionally.
“I really, really appreciate my time on the board. Hopefully I contributed in some way,” he said. “I know that I learned a lot, and I know that I benefited a lot from being on the board. It’s been a great 13 years.”
Students and Service Highlighted
Elementary students recognized as Citizens of the Month led the Pledge of Allegiance, sharing brief introductions and future career aspirations.
At the high school level, senior Reese Holland was recognized as Leo Club Student of the Month. Administrators highlighted her academic achievements, leadership roles, athletic participation, and community service, including her work organizing chemo care kits for families undergoing cancer treatment.
Student representatives also reported increased participation in National Honor Society tutoring, successful Powderpuff and Powder Buff fundraising events that raised approximately $400 for senior scholarships, and the donation of 12 chemo care baskets to University Hospitals Cancer Center in Elyria.
Policy Updates and Financial Review
The board unanimously approved a second reading of multiple district policy revisions, including updates related to attendance, student fees, audits, school safety, digital accessibility, continuity of operations, and information security.
Treasurer Justin Klingshirn presented the November 2025 financial report, noting that the district collected approximately $12.7 million in general fund revenue through November, slightly ahead of prior years. Total district revenue stood at $13.8 million, with expenditures totaling $12 million.
The general fund cash balance was reported at $9.6 million. Klingshirn explained that the lower balance compared to prior years reflects a $7.6 million transfer made earlier this year to support capital projects. The district’s total cash balance across all funds was reported at $19.7 million.
The board also approved several donations benefiting athletics, preschool scholarships, and student programs.
Public Participation
During public participation, Vermilion resident Katherine Schwanitz addressed the board regarding oversight and compliance considerations related to release-time religious instruction programs, including LifeWise. She acknowledged district responsiveness to her inquiries and shared policy examples from other districts for consideration.
Brady Johnston, representing the Vermilion Fire Department’s social club, invited the community to a free pancake breakfast with Santa at the fire station and thanked the board for its continued support of community initiatives.
Executive Session
The meeting concluded with the board voting unanimously to enter executive session to discuss personnel matters, as permitted under Ohio law. No action was taken following the executive session during the public portion of the meeting.
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