Marietta Board of Education members commented only briefly about their failed bond issue and tax levy Monday at the first board meeting since the Nov. 3 election.

They didn't have any discussion on whether the issue, which would have funded the construction of new schools, will go back on the ballot in the spring.

"I'd be remiss if I didn't say I was disappointed we didn't pass this," said Superintendent Herb Young. "I thought it was vital to our school system and our community."

Board member Greg Gault said at a Ohio School Boards Association capital conference earlier this month the three Marietta board members in attendance sought input from board members from other parts of the state.

"We talked to districts who have had these fail, who have had them pass and who have tried again," he said.

"That was invaluable as we look at what direction we want to go in," said board member Wendy Myers, who also attended the conference.

Gault said the board also sought information at the conference that would help it improve the district's current schools.

"Those are mainly safety and security issues that we'll be addressing," he said.

Board member Ryan Elliott, who lost his bid for re-election, said he plans to continue to be involved with the district facilities plan once his term ends Dec. 31.

"I've been talking to a lot of people to get their perspective ( on the path the district should take) and I hope to head that up once I'm not on the board," he said.

In the meantime the district continues to work on an overall vision map board members spent two years creating, said board member Allen Love, with weekly meetings planned for some members and district staff to analyze various aspects of the school system and find ways to make improvements.

Also at Monday's meeting:

The board held an executive session to address a personnel complaint, with several parents joining the board in the session.

"A number of people have shown up and they have a concern with a member of our staff," said Board President Jack Moberg.

Before joining the executive session, parent Jennifer Offenberger told the board in open session that she is aware of concerns with the football program but that she supports Coach Andy Schob, who has been in the position for two years.

Offenberger's son has been part of the football team.

"Just like with any program, the coaching staff probably has some things that need worked out but that's normal and that's life," she said. "I'd like to see those things resolved so that (Schob) can move forward."

Schob has put a lot of "heart, energy and experience" into the team, said Offenberger.

"I believe he's building a program not just today but for the future," she said. "And that's critical for a coach."