Strongsville
Levies in Northeast Ohio school districts were unsuccessful on Election Day, resulting in funding challenges for the districts.
– Several school districts in Northeast Ohio had school levies rejected by voters, including districts in cities such as Medina, Strongsville, Brunswick, Ravenna, Richmond Heights, Garfield Heights, and more.
– Brunswick’s operating levy had been in place since 1994 and contributed $3.2 million annually to essential educational operations.
– The March levy in Medina, if passed, would have generated approximately $14 million annually and cost homeowners about $263 for every $100,000 in assessed home valuation.
– Failure of the levy would result in cuts such as busing, class sizes, counseling services, gifted programs, electives, AP courses, and middle school teaming.
– A parent-led coalition called “Kids First Medina” pushed for the levy to pass.
– The district faced challenges with increased costs and inflation, which the levy was intended to offset.
– The Medina City Schools Superintendent expressed concerns about potential cuts and the impact on students and staff.
– This marked the second straight failed levy for the district after a failed attempt last November, and the possibility of another attempt in November is uncertain.
Bullet Points:
– School levies rejected in multiple Northeast Ohio districts
– Brunswick’s operating levy contributed $3.2 million annually
– March levy in Medina would generate $14 million annually
– Potential cuts if levy fails include busing, class sizes, counseling services, gifted programs, electives, and AP courses
– Parent-led coalition “Kids First Medina” pushed for levy passage
– Concerns about impact on students and staff due to potential cuts
– Uncertainty whether another levy attempt will be made in November
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