Most in poll rate Canfield school facilities as ‘poor’
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CANFIELD -- Schools Superintendent Joe Knoll on Wednesday presented results of a recent online survey about district buildings that was open June 30 through Aug. 31 and drew 690 responses.
"That is the largest response I have seen," Knoll said.
The survey revealed 62% of respondents rated the school facilities as "poor." Of the respondents, 85% want to see facility upgrades funded.
The surprising number was the 46% that felt confident the district is using funding responsibly. The low percentage was a concern for Canfield Board of Education member Jill DeRamo.
"I wish those who say we are not spending responsibly would come and talk with us," she said.
Before the meeting went much further, Knoll mentioned what the board, administrators and staff are allowed to say, according to the law. The question came up about discussing the five-year additional operating levy on the fall ballot during school time and what could or could not be said.
Knoll said any school staff or administrator can discuss factual information anytime and anywhere. The information must be able to be verified and cannot either support or oppose the passage of a levy.
Knoll said. "We are permitted to share neutral, verifiable, factual information regarding district finances, operations and facilities."
Board member Katie Elford asked about teachers sending home information with students.
"No, we can't do that," Knoll said.
Knoll then showed a chart on where the district is compared with 10 years ago. In 2016, the state revenue from Ohio was $8.81 million and today the state revenue is $8.48 million. As for expenses, in 2016 the district put out $28.6 million, but that has increased to $37.1 million this year.
"Expenses kept pace with inflation at minus 2.7% annual growth," Knoll said. "And state revenue declined."
On a more positive note, Knoll accepted a $1,000 check from the Canfield Junior Women's League to go toward the "Champions Day" event where Mahoning County students with special needs compete in an athletic marathon at the high school. The event is scheduled Sept. 17.
In other business, the board:
* Approved out-of-state trips for the eighth grade to Washington, D.C., May 12-14, 2027, and the 12th grade to New York City Dec. 20-22, 2026, as a class trip.
* Approved the following fundraisers: NHS dues at $40 per person, CHS Art Club $3-$6 dues for supplies, Hilltop Library for $10 for a birthday book, high school student council dues of $10 each and $15 each for the Homecoming Dance, Key Club $10 membership dues, elementary art's 20% of Artsonia sales and donations for a pickleball fundraiser.