Euclid’s operational school levy looks to fill $27 million gap

EUCLID, Ohio (WOIO) - The yard signs are out in Euclid, home to nearly 50,000 people and almost 4500 students.

Parents dropping off kids were almost unanimous in their support for the levy.

“Whatever’s good for the schools is good for the kids,” said parent Tanisha Mitchell.

Superintendent Karen Brown has taken her message to Facebook and YouTube, the district will have to cut to state education minimums if the levy fails.

“That includes transportation, optional classes, that includes electives and activities, that includes student wellness support, that includes our options for at-risk students and any of those kinds of educational supports beyond what’s mandated by the state,” explained the superintendent.

Despite the fact it’s less than two weeks before the election, some voters are still undecided.

“Every vote counts,” Shanee Singleton said. “After today I’m going to go home and research it and if it’s not for the community, I’m definitely going to vote against it.”

Euclid High School student Devon Helcon just turned 18 and plans to vote, although he’s undecided.

“I’m not sure,” he explained. “I’m really not sure. I’m not sure.”

The levy will cost voters less than $20 a month for every $100,000 of house value, less than $250 a year for a $200,000 home, a value according to the superintendent.

“Good public schools are always good for the community,” explained the superintendent. “These kids are our kids, they are the kids that are living, walking, learning, and inhabiting the community every day. One of the things we have really been intentional about is preparing the students for the future workforce.”

If the levy fails, free sports in the Euclid district are also at risk.

Election day is November 3.