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Lakewood rec and athletics leaders lay out strategic plan and program audit, highlight community partnerships and grants
Summary
District recreation and athletics leaders presented a strategic plan, program audit and community engagement work, cited an ACE Ohio funding amount "over $101,000," discussed PlayMetrics and feedback collection, and described efforts to align K–12 programming.
District recreation and athletics leaders told the Lakewood Board of Education on Sept. 16 they have implemented a strategic plan and are conducting a program audit to ensure affordable, high-quality programming across K–12. Mr. Walter, district and community activities department director, said a 2021–22 analysis identified eight common themes — including communication, leadership and facilities — that shaped short- and long-term objectives.
Walter described upgraded communication tools (website, social media) and partnerships with community organizations including the Beck Center, Winterhurst and Cove Community Center. He said the district received ACE Ohio funding of "over $101,000" that the district was permitted to spend for another year (the funding was prolonged but not increased). Walter said facilities work across the city — including the Lakewood High School pool — has been completed recently.
Leslie Krogman (rec department) described a program audit to make sure programs remain affordable without sacrificing quality, reviewed staffing alignment and explained the district aims to have varsity coaches act as the face of athletic programming to promote K–12 continuity. Krogman said the district is revising CREC volunteer roles, considering bylaw updates (last reviewed Feb. 2021) and planning broader public input on how CREC functions.
Board members discussed operational details: PlayMetrics is in use for some travel programs but carries ongoing cost questions; the district collects targeted feedback via QR codes and limited post-season surveys (one recent girls program survey yielded about 40 responses, which staff characterized as a strong response for that cohort); and cash payment is still accepted at football gates after earlier changes toward cashless operations. Travel basketball for grades 4–6 is in planning and tryouts are being scheduled.
Board members praised student-led events, volunteer fundraising and the SALT group's involvement in community engagement. District staff said the strategic plan was developed after a comprehensive community survey and focus groups and that the next full community survey will likely occur within the next six to 12 months.
The presentation and discussion concluded and the board proceeded to consent and action items.
