The Ross Local School Board meeting on January 23, 2025, featured a poignant public comment from Cynthia Worsselbacher, who raised concerns regarding the treatment of her granddaughter in the school’s show choir program. Worsselbacher detailed her granddaughter Mason's struggles to balance participation in both show choir and cheerleading, particularly after a serious illness that prevented her from attending a required camp.

Worsselbacher explained that Mason, an eighth grader, had been advised by her doctors not to attend the camp due to health issues. Despite this, the show choir director informed Mason that she had "broken the contract" and would no longer be allowed to participate. Worsselbacher expressed her frustration over the lack of communication from the school, stating that she was not consulted about the decision and that the director had spoken to Mason without her knowledge. This situation, she argued, undermined her role as a parent and left her granddaughter feeling isolated and misrepresented among her peers.

The emotional weight of Worsselbacher's testimony highlighted broader issues of communication and support within school programs. She emphasized the importance of parental involvement in decisions affecting students and called for a review of the protocols followed by the school staff in such situations. Additionally, Worsselbacher sought a refund for the fees paid for the show choir, arguing that it was unfair to retain the money when Mason was not allowed to complete the program.

In response, board members acknowledged the need for the principal to follow up on the concerns raised, particularly regarding the uniform and fees associated with the show choir. The discussion underscored the importance of clear communication between school staff and parents, especially in matters that significantly impact students' experiences and well-being.

The meeting concluded with a commitment to address Worsselbacher's concerns, though the emotional toll on Mason and the implications for her self-esteem and involvement in school activities remained a pressing issue. The board's next steps will likely involve reviewing the handling of such cases to prevent similar situations in the future, ensuring that students and parents feel supported and informed throughout their educational journeys.