Cleveland school board votes to put levy on November ballot

CLEVELAND (WJW) – The Cleveland Metropolitan School District Board of Education approved plans to place a 8.6 mill, 10-year operating levy on the ballot this November.

According to district officials, the proposed levy would “support numerous critical programs and maintenance efforts that directly impact student success.”

School officials say the average Cleveland homeowner would have to pay about $4.62 per week, with businesses assuming more than half of the financial support.

“We stand at a crossroads for funding the future of our children’s education. Your support for this levy means a direct investment in not just their future, but the future of Cleveland,” said CMSD Board Chair Sara Elaqad in a release sent to FOX 8. “We’ve strategically contained costs to minimize the impact on our residents, making this a responsible and crucial step forward for CMSD.”

The school district says the levy would focus on the following areas:

• Strengthening academic programs in science, technology, mathematics, business,
  communications and the arts.
• Providing equity and access to high-quality schools, curriculum and programing.
• Sustaining vital mental health, student and family support services.
• Creating and enhancing safety and security measures based on the district’s strategic priority of providing a safe and supportive culture across all school facilities.
• Ensuring CMSD facilities are well-maintained and properly equipped to withstand various weather conditions.
• Preparing students for collegiate success and promising careers in high-demand fields.

“Our scholars deserve every opportunity to succeed in today’s rapidly evolving world,” said CMSD CEO, Dr. Warren Morgan. “This levy will enable us to maintain and enhance essential programs that our scholars rely on, including advancements in STEM, arts, and college and career readiness, as well as crucial mental health and safety initiatives.”

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