Summertime
Friends:
My first five months as Akron School Board President are past me now, and what a time it has been.
When I came into this office, we were facing a $37 million deficit in fiscal year 2011, a lack of new revenue, and a very bleak economic outlook.
Today, we have reduced our deficit to $10 million in 2011 and by the end of this year it will be gone all together. All this, without raising taxes one cent!
With the innovation and hard work of our staff, Superintendent James, Treasurer Jack Pierson, and our various Unions, we have been able to bring our fiscal house in order without a new levy.
More good things have started to happen since January.
Our Open Enrollment numbers are up for the first time, meaning more families from outside of Akron are sending their child to APS. We've aligned our entire district around our 5 Strategic Goals, creating a seamless vision district-wide.
I'm also hopeful that our state report card will show growth, and put us on a path to become Ohio's first urban district to reach "Effective".
As we close out the 2008-2009 school year, we look back on a historic time for our country and our community. My first 5 months as Board President have been tough, but so rewarding. It's an honor to serve you in this capacity, and I look forward to delivering more for you in the coming year.
God Bless
-JJH