Wayne Bowers

The Akron City School District's Five Year Forecast Report, prepared in November 2025, provides a financial outlook through Fiscal Year 2030. The report projects a significant decline in the district's cash balance, with a projected negative ending balance of ($159,933,804) by 2030, representing a $249,120,139 decrease from 2025. This trend is driven by projected revenue growth (0.12% annually) significantly lagging behind expenditure growth (3.30% annually), primarily due to reduced State Funding. The forecast highlights a growing revenue shortfall, necessitating a substantial revenue increase or expenditure reduction to achieve budgetary balance by 2030.

The meeting began with opening formalities, including the Pledge of Allegiance. The primary substantive action was to recess into Executive Session to consider the appointment, employment, or compensation of a public employee or official. Specific topics within the executive session included an overview of the Treasurer/CFO evaluation process, the midterm evaluation of the Treasurer/CFO, and the continuation of the midterm evaluation of the Superintendent. The Board reconvened into the regular session afterward, and the meeting was subsequently adjourned.

The special board meeting included discussions around an executive session to discuss the employment, dismissal, or discipline of a public employee or official, or to investigate complaints against them. The purpose of the executive session was questioned, with concerns raised about the board involving itself in administrative matters. The meeting also addressed a letter received by the board regarding an individual being placed on leave and other items contained within that email. A motion to recess into executive session failed. The meeting was adjourned.

The meeting included recognitions, such as acknowledging Swensons and Larry Nance Jr.'s donation to Akron Public Schools for teacher supplies. A Scholar Board Member shared insights and recommendations for STEM high school. The board addressed a request to install the Kenneth W Moore Principles Award plaque and the Central Hall of Fame in the administration building. Board members reflected on various school events and community engagement. The Superintendent reported on the Scholar Advisory Committee, the Superintendent's Book Club winners, community showcases, the APS Staff Jingle Mingle Market, and updates on SNAP benefits. The Treasurer presented the September 2025 financial report, and the board discussed personnel recommendations, division recommendations, and business affairs. The board also covered committee reports, unfinished business, and new business, including snow plowing contracts. An executive session was held, and the board approved a settlement agreement and a Memorandum of Understanding between the Akron Board of Education and the Akron Education Association.

The meeting included the appointment of Bruce Alexander as Treasurer Pro Tempore and a presentation on the Marilyn Stroud Music Alive Program, which donates recycled instruments to school districts. A concern was raised about potential defunding for programs like Title One. Board member reflections covered events such as the Love Akron Breakfast and the 70-year anniversary of Phi Delta Kappa. The President's report addressed the mental and emotional well-being of students and recognized Dr. Lisa L Sims as the Akron Public School Counselor of the Year. The Superintendent's report highlighted Breast Cancer Awareness Month, community meetings, and literacy programs. The board discussed and ultimately removed a service contract with Leadership and Learning, LLC for further review. The board ratified tentative agreements with the Service Employees International Union Local 1 for Child Nutrition and Safety Team Employees. The meeting then moved into an executive session.