Akron Public Schools

The board of education had voiced concern about a lack of control over removing problematic officers, voting down the contract with police earlier this year. The new contract does include more leeway for the district to do so.

In Akron, the leader of the teacher union says the shortage is more pronounced than in recent years. In Cleveland, it's unclear how many more teachers the district should hire due to looming school consolidation plans.

Debate over the contract for school resource officers comes after a student was forcibly arrested by two Akron Police Officers and punched in the head in fall 2024.

The nine candidates are throwing their hat in the ring as Akron Public Schools' board has made several controversial decisions lately, including a transition in superintendents and cuts to staff.

The increase, which is somewhat offset by increased healthcare premiums for employees, comes as the district has made significant cuts over the last two school years, notably cutting 285 positions in 2024.

Akron Public Schools said delays will mean the new school will be complete by August 2028, although the final cost is unclear.

Outley will guide the district through potentially tumultuous times, after two short-lived previous superintendents and an uncertain financial future.

The move to reconsider a single new building to house the Miller South and Pfeiffer schools comes as the district faces budget challenges.

The move to hire longtime employee Mary Outley comes one week after the board voted on a resignation agreement with its previous superintendent and, immediately afterwards, to choose Outley as his replacement.

Superintendent Michael Robinson was accused of creating a hostile work environment and bullying staff, allegations which were backed up by an investigation. The board voted 4-3 at its Monday meeting to accept his resignation.