Hello Families,
As we move beyond the middle of the school year and begin looking ahead to spring, there is a lot to celebrate across our district. Winter sports seasons are still in full swing, and I encourage families and community members to get out and enjoy a game or match while supporting our student athletes.
Our Performing Arts Center calendar is also filled with wonderful upcoming concerts and performances. Ticket prices, when applicable, are reasonable for these excellent productions, and every dollar goes right back into supporting these programs and the students who make them memorable.
Opportunities like athletics, arts and co-curricular activities are an important part of the educational experience for kids. They help students connect, grow and find their passions — and they are a point of pride for our entire community. At the same time, providing and maintaining these opportunities has become increasingly challenging under the current funding model for public education.
Elyria Schools is now facing the difficult reality of a necessary $9-million reduction this calendar year following the failure of two levies in 2025, along with substantial losses in state, local, and federal funding. These reductions will impact our employees, our students and our community. Please know that these conversations and decisions are being approached with care, respect and a deep understanding of the people affected.
While the district must balance its budget and operate in a fiscally responsible manner, we continue to keep our students top of mind and will work hard to preserve quality educational services and meaningful experiences for them whenever possible.
We value all of our employees and the professional expertise, dedication and care they bring to their roles every day, and we recognize the hardships associated with these decisions and actions.
Transparency remains a priority throughout this process. The Board of Education presentation outlining the reduction plan will be available on the district’s website and YouTube page, and additional information will continue to be shared there in the coming months.
Funding for education is being heavily scrutinized due to the unfair burden it places on property owners, and educators agree that true tax reform is needed to create a more equitable and sustainable system. If you would like to contact Ohio’s state legislators to share your perspective, you can find your representatives here: https://www.legislature.ohio.gov/members/district-maps
Thank you for your continued support of our students, staff and schools, and for staying engaged during this challenging time.
Superintendent Ann Schloss
It's always a great day to BE A PIONEER!