Residents urge civility while others defend petition calling for board leadership protocols

Dozens of community members spoke at the Yellow Springs Exempted Village School District board meeting about a petition criticizing the board's conduct and urging adoption of prior leadership protocols. Supporters of the petition read portions of the document and argued the board's actions had become "unprofessional and counterproductive," while others said the petition deepened community divisions.

The meeting opened community comment with a reminder from the presiding officer that "participants in community comment must first be recognized by me," and that each speaker had three minutes. Diane Diller, a resident and mediator, offered free communication coaching to help residents and leaders "express ourselves in ways that others are more willing to hear." She said the training could reduce misunderstandings and improve outcomes.

Several speakers read or summarized the petition. One signer, quoted while reading the document at the podium, urged the board to "abide by the board leadership protocols set forth by former board members" and to work cooperatively with the superintendent and treasurer. Others supported the petition on grounds of civility and procedural clarity; at least one speaker urged board members to take training offered by state associations.

Opponents called the petition an unnecessary public rebuke. Carol Young, a longtime resident, said she found portions of the petition "insulting" and warned that public admonishment of elected officials risks further dividing the community. "I believe that every school board member is working with good intent and for the good of the schools and the community," she said.

Former board members and other residents urged the board to refocus on students and instruction. Scott Fife, who acknowledged signing the petition, said he still has "faith that every member of this board and the superintendent and the treasurer can work this out," but added the board faces a "serious problem" that needs to be addressed candidly.

The board did not take formal action on the petition during the meeting. Several members said they wanted time to consider the concerns raised and suggested using future committee work and mediation to resolve disputes. The board president and legal counsel were asked to advise on next steps; no vote or censure motion was put before the board that evening.