Introducing “Spotlight on Success” – OSC's New Monthly eNewsletter!

Get an inside look at the inspiring stories, innovative initiatives, and expert insights shaping Ohio’s schools. Each month, Spotlight on Success will highlight the achievements of OSC and its member districts, sharing strategies, triumphs, and lessons that can spark ideas in your own district. Don’t miss the chance to celebrate the people and programs making a real difference in education across Ohio!

Berea City Schools continues to stand out as a model district for collaboration and innovation through its partnership with the Ohio Schools Council. A long-time and active member of OSC, Berea was recently recognized in the OSC 2024-25 Annual Report as a FY23 & FY24 LEADER: Top Savings Certificate Club, demonstrating $1,186,218 in verified savings.

This recognition highlights Berea’s strong commitment to maximizing opportunities through cooperative purchasing, shared resources, and professional networking, which are key pillars of OSC’s mission. The district continues to achieve some of the highest savings among members and consistently benefits from the OSC’s cost-saving programs. In particular, Berea takes full advantage of OSC’s comprehensive utility programming, which delivers both substantial advocacy and significant cost reductions through long-standing programs, including the Power4Schools Electricity Program, OSC's Natural Gas program, and Transportation Fuel programs.

A Culture of Connection and Learning

Assistant Superintendent Mike Draves, now in his 7th year with Berea City Schools, says the district’s success with OSC programming stems from one key belief: collaboration is not optional, it is essential.

“We all have very lonely jobs, and it’s vital to have colleagues to rely on,” said Draves. “I make the OSC Network Meetings mandatory for my staff. They’ve been instrumental in learning about upcoming legislative issues, new grants, and connecting with like-minded district professionals.”

Draves emphasizes that these meetings provide immediate, actionable information. They serve as a one-stop resource for navigating ever-changing educational challenges, from compliance and policy updates to innovative cost-saving opportunities.



“Ignorance is bliss,” he added with a laugh. “The OSC has made it so easy, you can get all the information you need in one session to do your job successfully.”

Real Results, Real Impact

Through this proactive engagement, Berea has identified multiple opportunities to cut costs and enhance district operations. A recent highlight includes saving over $200,000 through a grant-funded LED lighting project made possible via OSC’s Design-build program with Gardiner.

Draves credits OSC’s support structure and streamlined communication for making such projects achievable. “The grants we learn about are so easy to apply for,” he said. “Our partnership with OSC allows us to take advantage of initiatives that might otherwise go unnoticed.”

Leadership That Leads by Example

Superintendent Tracy Wheeler, who has served on the OSC Board since 2023, reinforces the district’s commitment to collaboration and continuous improvement. Under her leadership, Berea City Schools has prioritized efficiency, equity, and student-centered decision-making, values that align closely with OSC’s cooperative philosophy.

“Being a member of the OSC has been a tremendous asset. We’ve saved over $1.1 million by utilizing OSC programs, funds we can reinvest into our students, staff, and community. In times like these, every dollar counts.”

— Tracy Wheeler, Superintendent, Berea City Schools

A Model for District Partnerships

Berea City Schools’ relationship with OSC showcases how strategic partnerships can translate into tangible outcomes. By fully engaging in OSC’s programs, network meetings, and cooperative contracts, Berea has created a culture where innovation and fiscal responsibility go hand in hand.



With a focus on collaboration, professional growth, and data-driven decision-making, Berea continues to lead not just in savings but in demonstrating how teamwork across districts can strengthen public education as a whole.

“Our partnership with OSC has become an invaluable part of how we operate,” Draves concluded. “It’s not just about saving money, it’s about being smarter, working together, and serving our students better.