The term "back-to-school" took on an entirely new meaning this year as individual school districts grappled with the safest way to welcome students, teachers, and staff back amidst the ongoing coronavirus pandemic.
In July, the Cleveland Metropolitan School District (CMSD) made the decision to offer remote learning for the first nine weeks of the fall semester. It's no small feat − after Governor DeWine closed schools in March, CEO Eric Gordon had to bridge the digital divide and assure connections for nearly 38,000 students in one of the nation's poorest and worst-connected cities. But by the time school resumed on September 8, CMSD will be close to a “one-to-one environment,” with one device for every student that needs one, based on the surveyed estimate of need.
These efforts come with a significant cost. Gordon, along with 61 other superintendents nationwide, are asking Congress for more than $200 billion in additional relief. In addition, in November, voters will be asked to renew the district's current 15-mill levy, with a request for a 5-mill increase.
Eric S. Gordon
CEO, Cleveland Metropolitan School District
Dan Moulthrop
CEO, The City Club of Cleveland
