Superintendent Dr. Claris highlights academic gains, grants and $1.5M preschool renovation; performing arts center to open in 2027

Superintendent Dr. Claris told the audience at the Brooklyn Early Childhood Center that the Brooklyn City School District has seen measurable academic and programmatic gains and is investing bond proceeds and grants in facilities and student supports.

"As a district, we are 4 out of 5," Dr. Claris said, summarizing the state report card. He provided data points: about 24 percent of students earned an honors diploma; roughly 70 percent earned an industry‑recognized credential, with about 45 percent meeting a specified 12‑point threshold; and 33 percent of high‑school students earned college credit while in school (about 14 percent earned 12 or more credits).

Dr. Claris announced that preschool staff secured a $200,000 state comprehensive literacy grant to support preschool curriculum, professional development and family engagement. He also described a recent transformation of the former Cuyahoga County Library into the Brooklyn Early Childhood Center, a project he said cost about $1,500,000 and now houses the family resource center and preschool operations.

The superintendent credited the 2024 bond approved by the community for enabling ongoing facility upgrades: phase one of stadium renovations and turf replacement (he said the Cleveland Browns provided a $250,000 grant toward turf), track repairs completed previously (a $400,000 replacement cited), upcoming stadium light installations, and planned concession and locker‑room renovations. Dr. Claris also said a performing arts center and associated classroom/music spaces are scheduled to open in April 2027.

Academic programming and partnerships drew emphasis: Dr. Claris cited College Credit Plus and AP programming, a new pre‑AP initiative, and a direct‑admit arrangement with Cuyahoga County Community College (Tri C) for graduating seniors. He described partnerships with Metro Health Hospital and Crossroads Health to expand counseling and social‑emotional supports, and he highlighted Brooklyn Cares and the district food pantry as ongoing community services.

Dr. Claris closed by noting the district's financial position shown on a slide (a beginning balance of about $26,000,000 projected to drop to about $18,000,000 by 2030) and said the board will consider three renewal levies over the next three years. He provided contact information for questions and thanked staff, the board and city partners.

Next steps: the district will continue bond‑funded work through 2027, honor student achievements at the next board meeting and proceed with performing arts center construction and classroom renovations according to the bond schedule.