BOARD ACTS, PLACES MODEST OPERATING LEVY ON NOV.

7MEEBR BALLOT FOR DISTRICT’S

FINANCIAL HEALTH

With an eye toward November, 2017 ballot, Graham Schools’ Board of Education continues
their work to communicate with the community about the district’s fiscal state and future
needs. Twenty-four years have passed since the district’s last successful levy for new operating
funds.

Last fall as part of the Board’s research and planning, the district presented extensive budgetary
information locally. Ohio school districts are rarely able to stay off the ballot for as long as we
have. The data shows that the district has stretched, cut and reduced when possible, but that
the need to secure additional funding for the already cash-strapped school system is a
significant and impending need.

“We have made cuts and sacrifices in many areas over the past several years,” Board President
Steve Setty. “Our teachers have shared in those sacrifices. We have done more with less when
it comes to continuing to provide a good education for our students, but now we have to turn
our sights toward adding additional resources and programs to our district.”

“The Board would maintain programs and services with additional funds, while providing
additional resources and programs in the classroom that directly benefit students and teachers.
There are resources teachers have needed for years for students, such as up-to-date
technology, textbooks and lab materials, along with additional science, technology and
academic programs.”

Discussions were held in the spring regarding details of the levy, and the Board will continue to
welcome feedback from the community in the coming months. Already the district has
surveyed the community and received feedback that there was broader support for an earned
income levy, instead of further cuts.

“We value the taxpayers’ opinions and ensuring that our schools are on solid financial footing is
up to all of us,” said Ryan Pine, Vice President. “The decision to act on the ballot is not one we
took lightly, and we will continue to communicate with residents and provide information to
them about the state of our schools and what we are facing financially.”

The ballot topic will be on the forefront of the Board’s discussions this year. There will be many
opportunities to learn more about the district at upcoming events at school, and in the
community. The public is welcome to all board meetings. Other avenues for gaining information
include contacting the superintendent, or the treasurer’s office.