Cuyahoga Falls School Board approves replacement policy amid compliance concerns

Cuyahoga Falls City Schools Board of Education took significant steps during their meeting on April 23, 2025, addressing compliance with federal mandates and laying the groundwork for future strategic goals.

The board unanimously approved a replacement policy to ensure compliance with Title VI, which prohibits discrimination based on race. This decision was driven by the need to protect federal funding, which amounts to millions of dollars for the district. Superintendent Dr. Salico emphasized the importance of this compliance, stating that the board had to act swiftly to avoid jeopardizing funding and licenses. The new policy aims to maintain the district's commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion while adhering to legal requirements.

In addition to compliance issues, the board adopted strategic goals for the 2025-2029 period, focusing on fostering a culture of caring, ensuring financial transparency, and steering student achievement. These goals are designed to create an environment where all students and staff can thrive, emphasizing the district's commitment to supporting its community.

A critical discussion also emerged regarding the potential closure of an elementary school due to financial constraints. The board recognized the necessity of moving forward with this decision while continuing to gather data to determine which building may be affected. Board member Anthony Gomez advocated for clarity in communication with the community, expressing the need to acknowledge the likelihood of closure to avoid uncertainty among families.

The meeting concluded with a commitment to transparent communication regarding the decisions made, particularly concerning the school closure, to ensure that families are informed and prepared for any changes ahead. The board plans to work on messaging to the community in the coming days, reinforcing their dedication to keeping stakeholders informed as they navigate these challenging decisions.