Good morning, Athens County. Did you know that Ohio University is experiencing a renaissance across its regional network? While many institutions struggle with enrollment, OU's campuses have maintained stability through expanded services and strategic investments. The university system has grown by 3.6% to nearly 31,000 students, including a record first-year class in Athens—proving that even in challenging times for higher education, the Bobcat community continues to thrive.
Meanwhile, drama unfolds in the local education scene as former Federal Hocking High School principal Jake Amlin takes his fight to the courts. His petition for writ of mandamus marks his second legal attempt to reclaim his position after the school board voted against renewing his contract despite significant community support. As this story develops, President Lori Stewart Gonzalez invites the campus community to gather for "University Updates" on October 30, continuing efforts to strengthen dialogue throughout the academic year.
🌤 Sky Skoop | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
0%☕️ What's Brewing Locally
🎓 Ohio University's regional campuses celebrate growth and historic milestones. The university's regional locations have maintained stable enrollment through expanded student services, scholarship investments, and career development initiatives. Bachelor of Science in Nursing programs are now available at every campus, meeting critical workforce needs. The Chillicothe and Zanesville campuses will mark their 80th anniversaries in 2026, while Lancaster and Southern campuses will celebrate 70 years. Overall university enrollment has increased 3.6% to 30,692 students, including a record first-year class of 4,550 at the Athens campus.
📚 Ousted school principal takes legal fight to the courts. Former Federal Hocking High School principal Jake Amlin filed a petition for writ of mandamus last week, his second legal attempt to regain his position. Amlin argues that the school board failed to conduct required performance evaluations, which should have automatically extended his contract under state law. Despite strong community support at a packed April board meeting, the school board voted against renewing Amlin's contract, citing concerns about declining test scores and high absenteeism. Amlin is seeking reinstatement, back pay, and benefits for his time away from the position.
🎓 OHIO President invites campus to 'University Updates' event. President Lori Stewart Gonzalez will host the next University Updates on October 30 at 11 a.m. in the Baker University Center Theater. Students, faculty and staff can attend in person or watch online to hear from leadership including the VP of Enrollment Management and Dean of Health Sciences. The event is part of OHIO's ongoing efforts to strengthen community connections and dialogue throughout the academic year. Following the presentations, all university members will have the opportunity to submit questions to each presenter.
🏡 Real Estate Reveals
Two-lot marvel with apartment: Priced at $389,900, this stunning two-lot property offers modern living with a full lower-level apartment, boasting updated kitchens, multiple bedrooms, security features, and versatile spaces across 0.89 acres with two garages and outdoor amenities.
Budget-friendly Athens creek retreat: This $180,000 Athens residence offers a well-maintained 1,330 sq ft of living space, featuring central AC, a cook-friendly kitchen, and a hot tub by a creek, available for rent at $1,000/month.
Vintage Athens gem near everything: Priced at $325,000, this 3BR, 2BA home on East State Street offers vintage charm, updated bathrooms, and a prime location steps from Athens' popular spots like Kindred Market and Village Bakery.🗓️ Happenings & Hoopla
🍞 Daily Bread Crumb
Cast your cares on the Lord and he will sustain you; he will never let the righteous be shaken.
-Psalm 55:22
|
|