Parents urge Cincinnati Board to keep essential ELL coordinator positions amid budget cuts

Cincinnati Public Schools (CPS) faced a heated discussion during its Board Business Meeting on May 5, 2025, as parents and educators rallied to defend the critical role of English Language Learner (ELL) coordinators. The meeting highlighted concerns over proposed cuts to these positions, which many believe are essential for supporting students and families from diverse linguistic backgrounds.

Parents voiced their fears about the potential elimination of the ELL coordinator role, emphasizing its importance in bridging communication gaps between non-English speaking families and the school system. One parent passionately stated, "Without a person like this ELL coordinator... I don't see why this position would be eliminated." Another echoed this sentiment, sharing how the coordinator had been instrumental in helping their child adjust to school life in a new country.

The urgency of the situation was underscored by multiple speakers who detailed the coordinator's impact on student success and family engagement. "This role supports 23% of our students directly and many more indirectly," said a parent and PTN co-chair, highlighting the coordinator's involvement in organizing culturally inclusive events and facilitating vital communication.

In addition to the ELL coordinator discussions, the meeting also addressed concerns regarding misinformation circulated by a board member about curriculum implementation rates. A teacher rebutted claims that only 27% of classrooms were using the high-quality curriculum, stating that data showed a much higher engagement level among teachers. This sparked a broader conversation about the need for accurate representation of teachers' efforts and the importance of supporting them rather than undermining their work.

The board members listened intently, with President Sellers acknowledging the emotional weight of the testimonies. She urged the community to continue advocating for public education and the essential roles that support student success.

As the meeting concluded, the call for maintaining the ELL coordinator position resonated strongly among attendees, reflecting a community united in its commitment to ensuring that all students receive the support they need to thrive in Cincinnati's diverse educational landscape. The board's next steps will be crucial in determining the future of these vital roles and the overall direction of CPS.