APS Addresses Community Learning Center Funds

Akron Public Schools (APS) is providing clarification regarding the approximately $17 million in funds referenced by Treasurer Dr. Stephen Thompson during the February APS board meeting. These funds are currently held in the district's 004 account (Local Funds Initiative Account), which is designated for school building construction.

These funds originated from the Joint Board of Review (JBOR), a cooperative agreement between the City of Akron and APS established to oversee the Community Learning Centers (CLC) buildings. The JBOR partnership, which includes representatives from the City of Akron executive team and the APS Board of Education (Carla Jackson, Bruce Alexander, Diana Autry, Dr. Rene Molenaur and Dr. Michael Robinson), was designed to manage the acquisition, construction, financing, operation, maintenance and use of the CLCs to maximize cost efficiencies and community benefit. The current agreement is set to expire in 2033.

Currently, there is no formal agreement between the City of Akron and APS outlining the disposition of the remaining CLC funds. As a result, the district will be working to resolve this matter in partnership with City of Akron officials and/or appropriate legal channels.

APS remains committed to the responsible stewardship of taxpayer dollars and will provide updates on this issue as they become available.