Lakewood education forum addresses class sizes and community levies

The Lakewood City Schools Board of Education convened on April 7, 2025, to discuss critical issues affecting the district, including class sizes, school closures, and fiscal responsibility in light of potential future levies.

The meeting began with a focus on equitable class sizes across the district. A board member emphasized the negative impacts of large class sizes and presented data from the Ohio School report cards. The analysis revealed that while kindergarten and first-grade class sizes were on par with state averages, several grades exceeded these averages, notably fourth grade, which had an average of 19 students compared to the state average of 17. The speaker urged the board to consider these statistics carefully as they work towards "rightsizing" the district, advocating for a balanced approach to avoid "wrong sizing."

Following this discussion, Michael Drops addressed the board, reflecting on the district's history of downsizing schools. He noted that Lakewood has transitioned from ten elementary schools to seven and from three middle schools to two. Drops raised concerns about the demographic shifts in the community, particularly the percentage of students from rental households and the implications of declining birth rates. He cautioned against the potential need for centralized preschool services that could lead to increased transportation costs for private and charter schools. He concluded by stressing the importance of maintaining walkable schools and focusing on student needs.

Linda Beebe then provided a different perspective, representing a community of taxpayers with limited school-age children. She highlighted the community's concerns regarding high taxes and the need for fiscal responsibility, especially as the district prepares for a potential levy in the near future. Beebe urged the board to demonstrate that any proposed actions are financially sound to gain community support for future funding efforts.

The meeting underscored the board's commitment to addressing class size issues while balancing community concerns about fiscal responsibility. As discussions continue, the board will need to navigate these complex issues to ensure the best outcomes for students and the community.