The Milford Exempted Village Schools District (MEVSD) Board of Education held its regular meeting on March 18, 2025. The meeting highlighted outstanding student presentations, district achievements, fiscal updates, and ongoing advocacy efforts. Below are the key takeaways:
Featured Artists & Fine Arts Recognitions
Students from Seipelt Elementary were recognized as this month’s featured artists. Each student received a custom enamel pin designed by senior visual arts student Emily Zeke, symbolizing the K–12 visual arts experience across the district.
Highlights included:
Ceramic dragon eyes by Celsabil and Benson Brown (5th grade)
Pop art “onomatopoeia” and perspective tree artwork
A unique Harry Potter-themed visual animation created by Emily for Milford Drama’s production
Milford Drama’s production of Harry Potter and the Cursed Child broke records as the highest-grossing show in program history. Over 1,300 attendees supported the student-run production, which is completely self-funded.
The cast is preparing to travel to Scotland this summer for the Edinburgh Fringe Festival, where they will perform a student-written play.
Generosity in Action: “Project Sea Turtle”
Fourth grade students from Seipelt Elementary presented their student-led initiative, Project Sea Turtle, inspired by the December character trait of Generosity.
Students:
Researched threats to sea turtles
Partnered with SeaTurtles.org
Raised $434.34 through fundraising efforts
Created posters, gave morning announcements, and collaborated across classrooms
Board members praised the students’ public speaking skills, teamwork, and commitment to environmental advocacy.
Mock Trial State Recognition
Milford High School’s Mock Trial team was recognized for reaching the State Finals, tying the furthest the school has advanced in competition.
Honors included:
Best Attorney Awards for Grace Ham and Libby Morgan
Coach Gabby Downey, retiring this year, was acknowledged for her years of service and mentorship
Winter Athletics Recap
Athletic Director Aaron Zupka celebrated a number of standout winter athletic achievements:
Dance Team:
ECC Champions (5th year in a row)
Runner-up in state competitions for Pom and Hip Hop
14th in the nation at NDA Nationals in Orlando
Swimming & Diving:
3 state qualifiers in diving
Brady Campbell (sophomore): State Champion in 50 free – first in school history
Boys swim team: 6th place in Ohio (highest finish ever)
Two relays finished 3rd in the state and earned All-American honors
Mission Moment: Coach Miki Stakely
Coach Miki Stakely was honored for her quick, life-saving response during a recent athletic emergency. Her preparedness, training, and care for student safety exemplified MEVSD’s values.
Financial Report & State Audit Launch
Treasurer Doug Ackermann and Board Member Michael Wilson updated the community on district finances:
Milford has earned nearly $4 million in investment income this fiscal year
Expenditures in purchase services and other costs are down, reflecting cuts made last year
The State Performance Audit officially launched on March 17, with strong participation from administrative staff
Eagle Stadium Turf Replacement
The Board of Education approved the replacement of the Eagle Stadium field turf, with work scheduled to begin this summer.
Vendor: Motz (local contractor)
Funding: Around 90% of the cost will be covered through accumulated field rental fees, not the district’s general fund.
Originally installed in 2012, the turf has reached the end of its expected 10–12 year lifespan. Thanks to Milford’s excellent facility care, it remained safe and playable throughout—but replacement is now necessary to ensure continued safety and performance for student-athletes and community users.
Legislative Advocacy & Board Resolution
Superintendent John Spieser shared legislative updates and testified before the Ohio House Education Committee in support of fully funding the Fair School Funding Plan.
The Board unanimously passed a symbolic resolution urging the Ohio General Assembly to:
Fully fund years 5 and 6 of the Fair School Funding Formula
Update base cost inputs to reflect current inflation
Reject proposed reductions to guaranteed funding