Residents and organizations rally for Issue 27; Alpha Kappa Alpha donates books and hygiene supplies

Multiple community speakers used the board's public-comment period on Oct. 21 to urge passage of Issue 27, describe get-out-the-vote efforts and announce donations to the district.

Carla Chapman, representing the citizen committee for Akron Public Schools, said canvassers and volunteers have been active across wards in the final days before the Nov. 5 vote, that a second mailer listing endorsements had been distributed, and that a third mailer was in production. "During these last 2 weeks before November 5...we are pressing ahead with our plans and reaching as many voters as possible," Chapman said. She described volunteers from school PTAs, principals and the Lebron James Family Foundation joining outreach efforts.

Linda Hamobian, a city councilwoman, offered a personal endorsement for the levy and noted that a 12-year lapse between asking voters for a levy is unusual; she framed passage as essential to preserving programs that most affect Black and disadvantaged children.

Angela Denkins, representing Alpha Kappa Alpha's Theta Omega chapter and an APS kindergarten teacher, announced the sorority's donation of more than 900 books and 8,000 hygiene products to be delivered across several CLC sites; she said the last delivery would be made the following day.

Community speakers asked the board to emphasize transparency about how levy funds would be used, and several board members thanked and encouraged volunteers and community supporters.

What's next: The levy vote is scheduled for Nov. 5. Board members and administration continue outreach and public-facing events including a State of the Schools address Oct. 30.