Euclid schools face potential deep cuts after levy fails by 61 votes

EUCLID, Ohio (WOIO) - A Euclid school levy failed by 61 votes, and district leaders say deep cuts are on the table.

Imani Williams voted yes on Issue 5.

“I think it was really important to vote yes on it, but I’m not shocked that it didn’t pass,” Williams said.

Superintendent warned of deficit before vote

Before the vote, Superintendent Karen Brown warned of a $14 million deficit. She said if the levy failed, Euclid would cut to state education minimums. That includes transportation, electives and activities.

Williams said the outcome did not have to happen. She said an extra $20 a month “wouldn’t really be all that noticeable to me.”

“So it’s like, this was to help kids, and you voted no. Like, what’s wrong with you?” Williams said.

Brown releases statement

In a statement, Brown wrote: “I won’t sugarcoat it: There are tough decisions ahead, and some of them will be hard to hear.”

She also wrote: “Nothing changes in our classrooms today.”

Brown said in the statement the district will share budget reductions after administrators and the school board meet. The district has not specifically said what will be cut.

Voters react

Brian Jones, a former teacher, said he always votes for levies. He said he thought this one would not pass.

“Like, there is no school district in the state of Ohio that needs less money. But I also know that people are kind of squeezed. The economy is pretty awful,” Jones said.

Voters who spoke with 19 News and voted against the levy shared similar sentiments. They said it is hard being asked for more when the price of everything is going up.