OCSD Newsletter

Dear Oberlin School Families,

As we begin a new school year, I want to take a moment to thank you for your continued partnership and support of Oberlin City Schools.

I am excited to share that Oberlin City Schools has received an overall 4.5 STAR rating on the 2025 Ohio State Report Card! This accomplishment reflects the hard work, dedication, and perseverance of everyone in our school community.

We are proud to have earned 5 STARS in: Progress, Gap Closing, Graduation Rate and College/Career/Workforce/Military Readiness. We also met state standards in Achievement with 3 STARS and missed 3 STARS in Early Literacy by just one student.

This recognition is more than a number—it represents the daily efforts of our staff, students, and families who believe in the potential of every child. I could not be prouder of the culture of commitment and care across our schools. Thank you for everything you do for our students and community. Together, we’ll continue to build on this momentum!

September is always an exciting time filled with fresh opportunities for learning, growth, and community connection. Our students and staff are settling into routines, and we are already seeing great momentum across our schools as we work together to ensure every child has the tools they need to succeed.

Here are a few highlights from the District:

• AC units have been installed at OHS in the band and choir rooms, as well as the multi-purpose room.

• The District is currently accepting RFPs for our marketing/branding launch that will fall inline with the opening of the new 6-8 facility. To access the RFP, please click HERE.

• Reminder - Every student 5th grade and above needs to fill out a meal application if they have not previously received notification of their meal status. Click on the links here to complete the application: https://www.oberlinschools.net/our-district/food-services and/or https://www.payschoolscentral.com/

• The District will have our annual Bus Count Week starting Monday, Oct. 6, 2025 for the AM Routes. What is Bus Count week? In Ohio, the "bus count week" refers to the first full week of October that school is in session, when districts conduct a ridership count for transportation funding. During this five-day period, schools count the average number of actual bus riders (eligible students) to determine payments, which are calculated based on the greater of the morning or afternoon ridership.

Students at Oberlin Elementary School are enjoying exciting new resources that support both physical activity and sensory learning. A brand-new climbing wall was recently installed by OCSD Head of Maintenance Mr. Errol Barnes in the OES gym thanks to grant funding secured by now retired Director of Pupil Services Ms. Sue Alig. The wall provides students with a fun and safe way to build strength, balance, and coordination. In addition, climbing activities can help young learners improve focus, develop problem-solving skills, and release energy in positive ways—all of which contribute to stronger engagement in the classroom.

The grant also made possible the purchase of new sensory tables now in Ms. Jayme McCall’s resource room at OES and Ms. Kristen Kastler's PreK classroom. These tables provide hands-on opportunities for students to explore textures, practice fine motor skills, and engage in calming, interactive play. Sensory tools like these are especially helpful for students who benefit from alternative ways of processing and learning.

A huge thank you to the Oberlin Elementary PTO for hosting such a fun and welcoming Back to School Bash! We are so grateful for all the families, staff, and community members who volunteered their time to make the Friday, Sept. 5 event such a success. Your support helps start the school year off on the best note!

Students enjoyed games, activities, and plenty of opportunities to reconnect with friends and meet new classmates. The evening also gave families a chance to strengthen connections with teachers and staff in a relaxed, festive setting. Events like this truly highlight the spirit of community that makes Oberlin such a special place to learn and grow.

As the new school year begins, our Oberlin City School students are starting off strong thanks to the generosity of local organizations that donated school supplies. From backpacks and notebooks to pencils and crayons, these contributions ensure our students have the tools they need to learn and grow.

Beyond the supplies themselves, these donations from Wee Care Closet, Oberlin College Athletics, The Ohio Educational Credit Union and Oberlin Walmart reflect the spirit of community that makes Oberlin so special. Each item represents encouragement, opportunity, and the reminder that our students are surrounded by people who care deeply about their success.

Upcoming Levy Renewals

To sustain our financial trajectory, two critical renewal levies will appear on the November 2025 ballot:

• Emergency Levy Renewal: First approved in 2011, this levy generates $940,000 annually, directly supporting our District's operational expenses. Renewing this levy is essential to maintain current programs and services without increasing taxes.

• 0.75% Income Tax Levy Renewal: This levy, set to expire in 2027, contributes significantly to our general fund. Its renewal will ensure the continuation of vital educational programs and services that our community values.

Both levies are renewals, meaning they will not introduce new taxes but will continue existing funding streams crucial for our District's operations.

Upcoming Election of BOE Members

Incumbent Board of Education members Ms. Rosa Gadsden and Ms. JoAnne Steggall have filed for reelection to another four-year term. They will face challengers Ms. Sarah Reimer Dawson, Ms. Melissa George, and Mr. John LePelley. The top three vote-getters in November will earn seats on the Board.

In addition, incumbent Ms. Charlita Anderson-White has filed to complete an unexpired term ending in 2027. She will retain her position provided she is certified to appear on the ballot.

Thank you for supporting the Oberlin City Schools and please remember to vote in November. It is with your current and continued support that we are able to assist the needs of our students, families and staff.

Additional information from the Treasurer's Office can be found online by clicking HERE.