During a recent government meeting, community members voiced significant concerns regarding the state of local schools, particularly focusing on cleanliness and class sizes.

A substitute teacher, who identified as a graduate of the district, highlighted issues with the maintenance of school facilities, specifically Liberty Middle School in Canton. He noted that while the building is relatively new, it suffers from cleanliness issues compared to older schools in the area. He attributed this problem to a lack of respect among students for their school property and urged the district to incorporate lessons on property respect into its curriculum. He emphasized that fostering a culture of respect could lead to a more positive environment for both students and the community.

In a separate discussion, Randy Bridal, a resident and clinical associate professor, raised concerns about class sizes in elementary schools. He shared his experience as a guardian for his granddaughter, noting that her first-grade class had 27 students, exceeding the district's recommended maximum of 25. He pointed out that this high student-to-teacher ratio could negatively impact educational outcomes and teacher retention. Bridal questioned the board on their stance regarding these ratios and whether they would consider measures to improve them.

His wife, Janice Bridal, further supported these concerns by referencing studies that indicate smaller class sizes lead to better student performance and reduced teacher burnout. She highlighted the challenges faced by new teachers in large classrooms and the implications for long-term educational quality.

The discussions reflect a growing concern among parents and educators about the quality of education and the environment in local schools, calling for immediate attention from district officials.