Early History

This is Akron's first schoolhouse, at what is now the corner of Broadway and Buchtel. The Stone School (now known as the Old Stone School) was built on this site. The Old Stone School, built around 1840, is the oldest school in Akron. The school was restored and reopened in 1967. Today, every third-grade class visits the Old Stone School for a half day to study history and heritage.

In 1997, Akron Public Schools marked its 150th year of public education for all children.

One hundred fifty years is a long time for any institution to be in existence, especially one faced with as many inherent challenges as public education. Those serving in public education must always work toward its goal of educating all children, no matter what goes on outside the school doors.

What is interesting is how many of these challenges are not unique to the present day. Even as the idea for free public schools for all was introduced, Akronites were complaining about having to pay property taxes to educate other people's children. Our first superintendent left because the Board of Education could not afford to give him a raise. Students weren't showing up for school on time, if they showed up at all.

New challenges arose as the years progressed. Some – such as the two world wars and the Great Depression – affected the whole nation. Others were the direct result of our city's close link with the rubber industry. Still others reflected the changes in society.

But Akron's school leaders have a history of facing whatever challenges have arisen; and, more importantly, they have always held the mission of educating all children above everything else.

Akron can be proud of the legacy of its school system. With strong leaders, a dedicated staff and a supportive community, Akron has not only been a pioneer in public education in the past but continues to be a leader in education as we move into the future.

Click on the time periods in the table below to learn more about the history of Akron Public Schools.

The Beginning	1920-28	1991-97	2000-01	2005-06
1847-60	1928-42	Fast Facts	2001-02
1860-83	1942-55	1997-98	2002-03
1883-1900	1955-66	1998-99	2003-04
1900-20	1966-91	1999-2000	2004-05

Sources: "The History of Summit County," edited by William Henry Perrin, 1881; "Lengthened Shadows," Sally Klippert, 1955; Akron Beacon Journal clippings compiled in PTA scrapbooks; Akron Public Schools "Chalkboard" newsletters; and Akron Public Schools "APS News" newsletters

↓ Click on "Other APS Links" below for the complete links list.