February 25, 2025 Work Session Summary

The Shaker Heights Board of Education held a Work Session on February 25, 2025. Highlights from the meeting include:

Advocacy for Fair School Funding

The meeting opened with a resolution advocating for the full phase-in of the Fair School Funding Plan and an update to base cost calculations. Superintendent David Glasner and board members emphasized the importance of community advocacy to push state legislators to fund public education adequately. They noted that current funding calculations are based on outdated 2022 costs, placing an increased financial burden on local taxpayers. Board members encouraged families to contact their representatives to advocate for proper funding.

Updates on State and Federal Policy Changes

Superintendent Glasner provided updates on recent policy developments affecting public education, particularly executive orders and state laws impacting diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives and transgender student policies.

Woodbury Middle Years Building Updates

The work session primarily focused on updates regarding the Woodbury Middle Years building, which is a major component of the District’s long-term facilities plan. The design team, including representatives from GPD Group and the Cobalt Group, provided updates on site planning, environmental considerations, and parking.

• Site Planning and Environmental Considerations:
  The site is adjacent to the Doan Brook watershed, and planners are ensuring the design respects environmental constraints. The team has been working closely with the Doan Brook Watershed Partnership to ensure compliance with riparian setback requirements and floodplain management.
• Parking and Traffic Flow:
  The parking plan includes 165 spaces on-site, with additional on-street parking available on Woodbury and Onaway roads. The District plans to designate some on-street parking specifically for staff to address concerns about availability. The Board discussed the need for designated spots for teachers who travel between buildings.
• Bus Loop Discussion:
  A significant portion of the discussion centered on whether to include a dedicated bus loop in front of the building. The proposed loop would cost over $1 million, require the removal of two century-old trees, and would not be co-funded by the state. While Middle School staff strongly supported the loop for student safety and efficiency, board members weighed this against financial constraints and environmental concerns.
  The Board ultimately decided not to include the bus loop in the initial design, opting instead to monitor traffic patterns and revisit the issue after the building is in use. The design team emphasized that the loop could be added later if necessary.

Ludlow Early Learning Center Playground Discussion

The Board also discussed plans for outdoor play spaces at the Ludlow Early Learning Center, which is set to open in Fall 2025. The discussion focused on ensuring the playground design aligns with the developmental needs of preschool-aged children while also considering accessibility and safety features. The Board acknowledged the importance of community input in shaping the playground design and will continue discussions as plans move forward.

Additional Facility Planning Updates

• Fernway and K-5 Renovation Strategy: The Board reviewed ongoing planning efforts for Fernway and other elementary schools, ensuring alignment with the District’s long-term facilities plan.
• Woodbury Site Utilization: The Board reviewed preliminary plans for field and green space usage, including input from local recreation groups.

Accessibility and Tree Preservation

Board members discussed ADA accessibility improvements in the new Woodbury building, including the placement of elevators and restrooms for students with special needs. The District is also working with the city’s urban forester on a tree preservation and replacement plan.

Next Steps

The facilities team will continue refining the Woodbury design and preparing for city planning approvals. Further engagement with faculty and staff will ensure the final design meets instructional and operational needs. Planning for the Ludlow playground will continue, with a focus on accessibility, safety, and developmental appropriateness.

Upcoming Meetings

• March 4, 2025 – Board of Education Regular Meeting
• March 11, 2025 - Board of Education Work Session

 

Disclaimer: This summary was generated using AI based on the available meeting transcript. While efforts were made to ensure accuracy, it may contain errors or omissions. For official records and full context, please refer to the official meeting minutes or video recording provided on shaker.org.