The Columbus City School District Board of Education meeting on December 19, 2023, highlighted significant community concerns regarding the potential closure of the Columbus Online Academy for grades K-6. Parents, educators, and community members passionately urged the board to reconsider its decision, emphasizing the unique needs of students who thrive in this online learning environment.

Miss Cottrell, a former administrator, opened the discussion by advocating for the academy, arguing that the decision to close it would neglect the human element of education. She shared poignant feedback from parents who expressed dissatisfaction with alternative schooling options, citing issues such as bullying and a lack of personalized attention. Cottrell stressed that the academy serves vulnerable populations, including students with disabilities and those facing anxiety or bullying, and closing it would push families toward lower-quality charter schools.

Jennifer Harvey, an eighth-grade teacher at the academy, echoed these sentiments, presenting an open letter from over 600 members of the Columbus Education Association. She warned that the closure would lead to a mass exodus of families seeking better educational options, further diminishing enrollment in the district. Harvey called for immediate action to retain and grow the academy, highlighting the need for a collaborative approach to improve educational outcomes.

Board President John Coniglio also urged the board to think creatively about maintaining the online academy, arguing that closing it would only exacerbate the district's declining enrollment. He proposed a partnership with the Columbus Education Association to develop a comprehensive plan to promote the online school and attract students back to the district.

The meeting also addressed broader concerns about the recent passage of a school levy and its implications for the community. Stuart McIntyre from the Columbus Education Justice Coalition called for the board to protect vulnerable residents from displacement due to rising property taxes and to challenge city leaders on policies that may undermine funding for schools. He emphasized the need for transparency and accountability in how the levy funds are utilized.

Rebecca Johnson, a retired caregiver, expressed her concerns about the financial burden of the new levy on seniors and the community's demand for clearer communication regarding future tax implications. She urged the board to demonstrate tangible improvements in schools to maintain public trust and support for future levies.

As the meeting concluded, community members left with a sense of urgency for the board to act decisively in support of the Columbus Online Academy and to ensure that the needs of all students are met. The discussions underscored a collective desire for a thriving educational environment that prioritizes student well-being and community engagement.