Lakota Schools Enhance Learning Environments with Renewed State Funding Efforts

The Lakota Board of Education has decided to rejoin the Ohio Facilities Construction Commission's Expedited Local Partnership Program (ELPP). This decision, unanimously approved at their April 22 board meeting, allows the district to continue improving its educational facilities. This effort began in 2019 but was paused due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Rejoining the ELPP is crucial for the district to obtain state support and funding for its facilities plan, which includes addressing issues like inadequate classroom space.

The ELPP determines the financial support Ohio school districts receive, based on a wealth ranking assessed by student valuation. Lakota's ranking has improved to 419 out of 609 from 476 in 2018, increasing its state funding eligibility from 29 percent to 31 percent. This funding is essential for Lakota to update and replace outdated schools.

At the board meeting, Chris Passarge, the Chief Operations Officer, presented the district's facilities plan. It proposes reconfiguring grade levels, building new schools, and expanding existing ones. For example, Liberty Early Childhood School may become a standalone preschool, and new K-5 schools are planned. The plan also includes expansions for middle and high schools to support growing student numbers.

The plan also involves decommissioning several outdated buildings. Some elementary and junior schools will be replaced or repurposed to better meet current educational standards.

This article has been enhanced with AI assistance. Agree to access AI-generated content by clicking here, or opt for content with less AI influence here.