Facts About The APS Levy

On June 10, 2024 , the APS Board of Education passed a resolution to place a bond and operating levy on the November ballot:  Issue 27.  It has been 12 years since Akron Public Schools has placed a levy on the ballot.

Why do our schools need increased funding?

• Akron Public Schools has maintained a perfect rating from the Ohio State Auditor's Office for the last eight years.
• Akron Public Schools is projected to have revenue losses in 2025 - 2028 due to rising operating expenses and less revenue.
• Even though Akron property values have increased, the school district continues to receive the same dollar amount that was received 12 years ago.
• Funds are needed to maintain district operations and to rebuild North High School.
• Additionally, enrollment in North High School has increased significantly since the last levy 12 years ago and continues to grow.

Cost to the Property Owner

• The bond issue for rebuilding North High School is 1.29 mills, costing the property owner $3.83 per month per $100,000 of the assessed property value.
• The proposed operating levy is 7.6 mills, which would cost the property owner an additional $22 per month per $100,000 of the assessed property value.

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About APS

• Akron Public Schools (APS) and the community own 46 school buildings covering 62 square miles. It enrolls just over 20,000 scholars speaking more than 50 different languages. APS employs nearly 4,000 teaching and non-teaching professionals.
• APS is focused on ensuring all scholars are college, career, and life-ready by providing innovative educational experiences.

Graduation Rates

• 87.7% of APS scholars graduated in four years
• In 2018, the graduation rate was 79.8%
• Post-graduation statistics:
  • 62.2% are employed
  • 45.4% are enrolled in post-secondary education
  • 4.2% are participating in an apprenticeship
  • 3.1% are enlisted in the military

Post -Graduation Statistics

• APS scholars collectively have earned up to 8,000 college credit hours per year.
• 70% of Akron Early College High School graduates also obtained an Associate Degree.
• Class of 2024:
  • Earned 74,000 hours through internships
  • 60% earned a 12-point credential
  • 88.7% earned the Ohio Means Jobs Readiness Seal

Early Learning

• APS offers full-day and half-day Pre-Kindergarten classes

Guaranteed Experiences

• Essential Experiences(SM) introduces PreK - grade 5 students to local and historical organizations with custom-designed educational programming.
• Middle school students discover nonprofits and their importance of giving back to the community.
• High school students deepen their knowledge and understanding of various industry sectors and college opportunities.