September 9, 2025 Regular Meeting Summary

Call to Order

Board President Lora Cover called the meeting to order at 6 p.m. She opened with remarks mourning the tragic loss of Shaker Heights High School senior Jayden Bonner. She expressed condolences to his family, classmates and staff. Superintendent Glasner also acknowledged the loss and the community’s support during a difficult time.

Honors & Recognitions

Highlights included:

• Shaker Heights High School’s feature on WKYC’s Friday Football Fever with the marching band, cheerleaders, and Raiderettes.

• Recognition of retired tennis coach Al Slawson for more than 40 years of service and over 1,000 career wins.

• Former band director Ken LeeGrand received the 2025 Cleveland Jazz Legend Award for Jazz Education and Performance.

• Appreciation for the successful all-staff Convocation featuring alum Kevin Clayton and the Middle School Drill Team.

Public Comment

Community members offered remarks focused on the Board norms, communication from the Board, safety and supervision at the elementary schools and District finances. 

Facilities Updates

Assistant Superintendent of Business & Operations Jeff Grosse and Gilbane’s Todd Gerber presented updates on the Ludlow Early Learning Center:

• The building is substantially complete inside, with temporary occupancy approved for move-in.

• Remaining work is focused on exterior punch-list items, expected to wrap up in September/October.

• 49 prime subcontracts were awarded, with over 40% going to diverse or small businesses — exceeding the 25% goal.

Start of School Highlights

Assistant Superintendent of Learning & Teaching Dr. Felecia Evans and principals shared updates:

• Rollout of Wit & Wisdom literacy curriculum, now expanded Districtwide.

• Introduction of the new HighScope preschool curriculum, aligned with IB frameworks.

• Staff training for paraprofessionals on trauma-informed strategies.

• Launch of Sources of Strength peer-to-peer social-emotional support model.

• Teachers engaged in professional learning communities (PLCs) to set year goals.

Board Norms

Board members reflected on expectations for communication, accountability, and fostering relationships across the district.

Communication

This topic was added to the agenda during the Board meeting. Board members discussed communication, and emphasized the importance of communication and engagement. 

Monthly Financial Report

Treasurer Donté Hayes presented the monthly update.

• June Results: Cash balance ended $2 million lower than projected in the November 2023 forecast, mainly due to property tax collections coming in at 97% instead of 100%. This is typical during a revaluation year, and the delayed revenue is expected this fiscal year.

• Forecasting: The state has moved submission deadlines earlier; forecasts now cover four years, though Shaker will continue to prepare a five-year projection internally.

• July Results: The District began the year with $50 million and projects a June 2025 balance of about $38 million, reflecting roughly $11 million in deficit spending. Revenues were slightly higher than forecast, while expenditures ran about $200,000 over.

• Deficit Spending: Hayes explained this is typical late in a levy cycle. Revenues are capped by law, while costs — mainly salaries and benefits — rise annually. The District has been operating on revenue from its last full operating levy, passed in 2014.

Superintendent’s Report

Superintendent Dr. David Glasner noted:

• Upcoming listening sessions with the faculty and staff.

• Excitement for the first Shaker Raider 5K and 1-Mile Fun Run on October 11, benefiting school PTOs.

• Monitoring of potential statewide property tax reform proposals, including a possible ballot initiative to eliminate property taxes, which could have severe impacts on school funding.

Upcoming Meetings

• September 16, 2025 - Board of Education Work Session

• October 9, 2025 – Board of Education Regular Meeting

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.