Akron Public Schools is considering consolidating buildings due to declining enrollment, a trend that has been ongoing for decades. The district has lost thousands of students over the years, resulting in a significant decrease in state funding. This has led to a recent $11 million budget reduction and potential discussions on further cuts.

Impact on Neighborhoods

The potential school closures have raised concerns among residents, who fear that it could lead to a decline in their neighborhoods. Judi Hill, president of the Akron NAACP and a former APS teacher and administrator, has seen the impact of school closures firsthand. She notes that when a school is closed, it can have a lasting impact on the community, leading to vacant properties, reduced investment, and a sense of loss.

Some neighborhoods have already been affected by previous school closures. The west side of Akron, for example, has seen the closure of several schools, including Lane and Margaret Park elementaries, as well as South and Kenmore high schools. These closures have led to a decline in the area, with some properties becoming vacant and attracting crime.

Community Concerns

Residents are concerned that the potential school closures could exacerbate the decline of their neighborhoods. Carla Chapman, who grew up in a neighborhood with a closed school, notes that it can have a negative impact on the community. She recalls that the vacant school building became a site of vandalism and crime, which had a negative impact on the area.

Board Member Greg Harrison acknowledges the concerns of residents and notes that the district needs to consider the historical impact of prior closures. He emphasizes the need to ensure that every school cluster and neighborhood has the resources to keep its schools vibrant.

The district is currently undertaking two major construction projects, including the merger of Kenmore High School with Garfield High School. While this project has brought some hope to the community, residents are still concerned about the potential impact of school closures on their neighborhoods.

Original reporting: Signal Akron — read the source article.