facility planning framework questionnaire results report ... › nccs › wp-content › uploads ›...

1

Facility Planning Framework Questionnaire

Results Report, January 2017


Results Report

January 2017

3325 Hilliard Rome Road

Hilliard, OH 43026

614-798-8828

www.dejongrichter.com

DRAFT

2



ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

On Wednesday, December 14, 2016, a Community Meeting was held to discuss and garner input about facility planning framework in North

Canton City Schools.

Participants were asked to fill out both an individual questionnaire and to participate in groups to fill out a group questionnaire. There was a total of

89 individual questionnaires and 12 group questionnaires. The questionnaire was also made available online from December 14th to January 3rd

so that community members who could not attend could still provide feedback. There were a total of 189 online questionnaires completed. These

results will be used throughout the process moving forward.

On behalf of DeJONG-RICHTER, we would like to extend our appreciation to North Canton City Schools for the opportunity to work with the

community in the facility planning study that will help define the districts’ long-term facility-strategy. In addition, we would like to thank the Steering

Committee for their time and dedication to the process.

North Canton City Schools

Superintendent

Jeff Wendorf

Board of Education

Bruce Hunt, President

Julie M. Cross

Jordan Greenwald

Dr. Nancy E. Marion

Susie Hertler VanVranken

DeJONG-RICHTER

Scott Leopold, Project Director

Alex Boyer, Project Coordinator

Joe Andrews

Matthew Betz

Mary Ellen Coneglio

Patty DiSimone

Craig Eyon

Tamie Eyon

Dave Forman

Joe Foughty

Daniel Herstine

Matt Ile

Nathan Jenkins

Lindsay Johnson

Ryan Kumpf

Jennifer Lahaie

Sandi Lang

Gretchen Leckie-Ewing

Tasha R. Lednich

Tim Lednich

Bobby Lewis

Katie Lewis

Timothy McCort

Dave McDaniel

Ashton McKelley

Jen McKelley

LaVon McLeod

Katrina K Miller

Brian Miner

Julie Nelson

Kim Nidy

Bruce Nist Jr.

Tom Oakes

John Orr

Tallie Paz

Sue Peldunas

Megan Pellegrino

Kelly Petro

Rich Petro

Holly Pierpont

Greg Porter

Jonathan Powell

Troy Richardson

Jeremy Alan Schans

Jamie Smart

Jeff Solosky

Kim Solosky

Bill Strohmengen

Christopher Triner

John Welch

Hilary Wertin

Sandy Womack

Tracy Young

Lisa Zepp

Steering Committee Members

3



TABLE OF CONTENTS

Acknowledgements .......................................................................................................................................................................................................... 2

Results .................................................................................................................................................................................................................................. 4

Demographics ................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 45

4



RESULTS

Did you attend the Community Dialogue meeting?

Question 1

When choosing a school for your child, which is most important? Please choose your top four (4).

5



RESULTS

Question 2

What are the top three (3) challenges facing the athletic programs for North Canton City School District? Please select 3 at most.

Individual (paper) Comments:

#1 parents keeping perspective

Athletics culture - coaching

Attracting top candidates to coach - we're

cheap

Drug use and political (funding)

Intramural teams for students that don't get

"picked". All students should have an option to

play

Not sure. Lack of quality coaching = culture &

community

Parents running the show - they have all the

power

Quality of coaching

Group (paper) Comments:

Intramural teams for students that don't get

chosen

Attracting top candidates, youth programs

Coaching quality and communication culture

Equipment needs also high

Online Comments:

Coaches

Coaches having their children on the team/

politics

Condition, Indoor, Space

Desperately need a pool for the swim team with

adequate spectator seating and ventilation

High School Administration

I think the programs have phenomenal facilities

and coaches. Students are proud of athletics

here

Lack of female locker rooms

Lack of golf practice facility for teams / indoor or

outdoor

Lack of own aquatic facility

Money that could be better spent on educating

children

More opportunities for younger kids within the

school district

No point of reference

Players are selected based upon family ties not

skill even if it results in losing every game

Practice facilities are limited. Middle school

Basketball, football, track

Preferential treatment

Quality coaches

Quality of coaches, especially at MS level

Quality of coaching

Sports are over emphasized in North Canton

Sports programs seem to be losing ground on the

area schools

Staff issues

Too much focus on athletics

Too much input from parents

Trained coaches

Using what we have already to its full capacity:

football scoreboard

6



RESULTS

Question 3

What are the top three (3) challenges facing the fine arts programs (visual & performing arts) for North Canton City? Please select 3 at

most.


Lack of emphasis at Elementary & Middle

Money to support the fine arts

Not sure. Program offerings beginning in elementary/ middle school

Program offerings at elementary

Program offerings begin in Elementary & Middle

Program offerings in elementary and intermediate


More space

Number and equity of programs

Programs lacking in middle school and below

Online Comments:

$ for equipment, supplies

Elementary students rehearsals are too early

Equipment, facilities, condition

Hoover has a fine arts program?

I feel this is a weakness in our district

Lack of concern by the district with the Arts

Lack of staff, for example only 1 art teacher at the MS

Please fix the heat in the art and band rooms

Poor acoustics in Hoover Hall

Unnecessary

7



RESULTS

Question 4

When determining whether a school should be renovated, replaced, built new, re-purposed, or retired: which 3 of the following

factors should be considered the highest priority? (Please select only 3)


n/a


n/a

Online Comments:

Environmental impact. Will remodel use fewer resources? Can a new build incorporate green education?

Physical, school building, safety

Schools need full time maintenance

8



RESULTS

Question 5

Would you be interested in the District permitting public access to the facilities or developing partnerships with the services or

agencies listed below? If so, please select those you are interested in having the District pursue.


"Green" facilities

Mental health assistance organization

No new partnerships/ funding


Safe, secure, technology, flexible space

Mental health organization

Online Comments:

Any as long as the children remain safe

Any other if there is lockable cabinets in each

room for teachers to secure personal property

Boy Scouts

Fab Lab access

Graduate school credit program for teachers

However, these partnerships should not have

precedent over educational / school purposes

I think what Plain Local did was extremely fiscally

responsible

None, do not permit these activities

None. It is too risky these days to have a

multitude of public organizations in/around the

schools.

YMCA

9



RESULTS

Question 6

What kind of facilities do you expect your communities (School Districts) to operate?


A facility that focuses on safety and educational needs of children

A facility that has space for all programs offered in the school setting

Appropriate for student population. Clean/ safe. Able to accommodate

career programs.

Athletic, arts, library

Clean and safe facilities with room for all students. Also making what may

currently have works best.

Clean modern facilities to promote student engagement

Clean, flexible, safe, inviting, green

Clean, newer, well-maintained buildings with the technology and space

needed for now and the future

Clean, safe, state of the art with experienced- professional staff

Clean, safe, temp controlled

Community based education, recreation safe, efficient

Cost effective, "organic" facilities which can easily change to meet the

changing decades of the district

Cost-effective, value-added, diverse programming, community connected

Current, up to date. Adequate space for all programs. Community access.

Safe, secure.

Efficient, productive, result oriented technologically equipped, safe, flexible

Excellence that supports strong instruction and collaboration for students

and staff

Excellent and efficient facilities

Facilities that exemplifies excellence.

Fairly modern, well operated

First rate facility with ability to change and adapt for future use

Facilities must be safe and securable. Facilities must be aesthetically

pleasing, not really, but aesthetically pleasing. Facilities must be flexible.

Room for various career education programs should be a priority.

Partnerships with the community are important. Athletic facilities should be

considered. Facilities must be solid in their construction.

First-class, safe, and well-run building/ facilities

Good stewardship of resources including maintenance. Renovate / build

when it makes good financial sense to do so

Highly technical and ability to adjust

I expect NCCS to operate high quality, safe facilities that address academic

and physical programming needs of students. ADA accessible.

Modern facilities (not dilapidated and outdated)

Modern, safe, flexible

Originate with education but can add programs based on the ability to

accommodate.

Safe and efficiently operated

Safe and operable buildings that support the programs offered

Safe and up to date facility in which students can perform at their highest

potential individually and as a group

Safe for students and staff

Safe, clean equal time allotted to all programs

Safe, clean, cheerful, friendly responsible/ efficient

Safe, educational environments

Safe, flexible, cost-effective

Safe, flexible, updated, cutting edge, more career options, larger spaces ,

more green space options, easy to maintain but aesthetically pleasing,

emphasis on Triple A concept in buildings

Safe, functional, comfortable yet energy efficient

10



RESULTS

Question 6


Safe, state of the art.

Safe, up to date, excellent learning environment with many opportunities for

exploration

Safe, well maintained

Safe, well-maintained, able to accommodate technology

Schools - educational programming. Athletic facilities. Arts & cultural facilities

Schools that offer great educational programming in functional facilities

State of the art, flexible spaces, 21st century tech

State of the art, technologically enhanced, safe/ secure with flexible

learning spaces

The absolute best which we can afford to offer. Being okay or average

doesn't cut it.

Up to date building with consistent heat, AC, and space for all children to

learn comfortably

Well funded and operated facilities that prepare our kids for the future

Well maintained, flexible

Wellness. YMCA. Daycare.


Safe, secure, technology, flexible space

More athletic, modern, safe, rest class

Education related. Safety

Safety and educational needs

State if the art, safe, flexible spaces and 21st century tech, high quality

Green, Safe, Clean, flexible

Enough space for programs. Heating/ air conditioning. Safe and clean. Kids

learn comfortably. Easy access.

Modern, safe, flexible, well maintained, best education we can offer

Safe, flexible, efficient, technologically equipped infrastructure

Safety, efficient, excellent learning environment. Well maintained.

Online Comments:

A clean, safe, and comfortable environment for all students

A community rec center would be a great value add

Academic, athletics, arts

Academic, performing, and athletics in that order.

Active learning facilities where teachers can move within their classroom

and into the halls to teach in different ways that would benefits the ways

children learn. Auditory, visual, hands on, etc.. Introducing STEAM for

everyone in all classes.

Any that benefit the community

Anything associated with the overall education of our students.

Classrooms of the right size, with what is needed (tech, layout, labs, etc.) in

side is top priority. Decent athletic facilities, or access to them (YMCA).

Anything after that is a perk.

Clean places with utilized spaces

Clean safe facilities where learning can take place without limitations of the

facility .

Clean, professional looking, up to date

Clean, safe and functional

Clean, safe environment

Clean, updated, safe- a suitable working environment for students and staff

Closed classrooms (not the open concept). Areas for specialized instruction

for gifted or special students.

11



RESULTS

Question 6


Collaboration / technology sites for interactive learning safe / secure

structures and facilities for productive learning small / effective class sizes for

enhanced learning experiences

Community friendly ones.

Community based, educational for students

Convert to more centralized facilities and less buildings, in addition to highly

efficient buildings.

Educational and athletic facilities

Elementary classrooms with bathrooms, sinks, counters/cabinets, clean

carpet, area rugs, school district supplied primary furniture and materials.

Prefer PreK to 5 buildings, 6-8 building(s) and 9-12 building. Windows in every

room. Courtyards for safe learning and play that do not have access to

exterior perimeter of building.

Elementary, Middle and High School

Facilities should be appropriate for the new technology our students are

expected to experience at NCCS. There should be adequate room for all

students as well as after school and community activities.

Facilities that are conducive to learning and provide a safe, clean,

environment.

Facilities that are progressive/forward thinking & can accommodate our fluid

society.

Facilities that are safe and up to code for our students.

Facilities where the safety of the students is priority, and that meet the needs

of the academic offerings/therapeutic services.

Fine arts facilities (auditoriums, music rooms, art rooms)

First-class facilities to accommodate 21st century learning.

High quality, large enough to adequately accommodate the needs of the

community.

I expect facilities that help students achieve the most put of their academic,

athletic and artistic abilities.

I expect the facilities to be safe, updated, and able to accommodate the

space needs of the students.

I like the concept that Glen Oak has embraced... there is a public library

and a wellness facility. Their fine arts area is impressive as well as their

weight/training facility for ALL of their athletes.

I look for clean, well-maintained facilities - the major focus should be on

what is produced within those walls

I want a facility that is in good condition without a leaky roof, poor heating,

and ceiling tiles falling apart. I want a facility with enough space to

accommodate student enrollment plus extra meeting places and a multi-

purpose room for students during indoor recess.

Library

Library, multi-language labs, athletic events, music concerts & fine arts

performances

Maintain all buildings to high quality standards and taking care of its people.

Modern, clean, and safe, with technologically-advanced equipment.

Energy efficiency-minded (lighting, HVAC, water supply, etc.).

Modern, state of the art facilities in order to prepare for college and

accommodate an excellent education.

Multi use buildings that collaborate with the community. Combining HS and

MS into one campus. Having two k-12 buildings one north and one south.

Neighborhood schools -- Pre-K to grade 5. This allows quality programming

and ability for staff to get to know the children and families.

Not a clear question. I don't understand what information you are looking

for.

One that don't use all of the taxpayer’s money

12



RESULTS

Question 6


Ones that meet the demands of today's world--technology & how students

learn today.

Ones that support our community and are up to date.

Ones to promote education.

Ones which are reflective of the current state of education within the

community.

People make education not buildings, I would like to see all schools located

within the city limits centrally located, primarily so they are close to police

and fire departments .

Primarily an educational opportunity for the students of North Canton

Quality maintained buildings. We approved a level for this and things have

gotten worse.

Safe, functional, technologically advanced

Safe (noise abatement included) and clean with adequate space

Safe and modern amenities

Safe and secure facilities and as a teacher myself, one that has the

appropriate space needed for teaching.

Safe and secure. Appropriate for enrollment. Appropriate for classes

offered.

Safe buildings that are able to accommodate the students effectively while

keeping up with current technology. Plus having enough space for

extracurricular activities and sports. Larger eating facilities are also necessary

as the current space in most buildings are too small the current student

body.

Safe energy efficient well maintained design Ed for longevity

Safe ones

Safe places that facilitate learning.

Safe schools

Safe schools and support for teachers.

Safe schools that don't separate the North and South end of town.

Safe schools with updated facilities.

Safe, clean, and staffed with dynamic teachers.

Safe, modern, adaptable, environmentally sound, functional, multipurpose,

etc.

Safe, secure, and appropriately functioning facilities and equipment with

adequate spaces for all students and faculty to function in their appropriate

roles and functions that is relatively close to our home.

Safe, up to date, suitable for ages of students

Safe, updated and easy to maintain, eco-friendly to reduce costs;

landscaped and inviting; able to maintain resources and programming

Safety is my main concern. Buildings that can accommodate technology

and the appropriate number of students per class.

School administration offices and schools including libraries/media centers

School should be for the schooling the students and the programs should be

for the students. They should be safe and functional.

Schools and facilities related to enhancing our youth's lives.

Schools for grades K-12

Schools pre k through 12

Schools that are functional, safe and cost effective.

Schools, athletic fields and spaces, spaces for arts

Schools, performance spaces, libraries, and sport facilities

SECULAR, separation of church & state school districts to respect needs of

ALL students.

Solid, useful; not world class cathedrals

Sports

13



RESULTS

Question 6


Standard school buildings designed for current standards

State of the art facilities to grow our students into well rounded adults

Teen athletic facilities

The Best that we can afford without burdening the tax payers

The buildings should be the focus of the community.

The facilities I expect are clean, and multi-purpose.

The school district should only operate schools, playgrounds, and sports

facilities

Things for kids to be a part of - at all ages

Those specifically for academic, athletic and artistic needs

Those that enhance the students' and experience and the community

around them.

Those that support the current and anticipated needs of our students and

staff.

Top-notch, community based, flexible

Up to date and efficient. Adaptable to teaching/learning styles.

Up to date learning facilities

Up to date, not over crowed, well lay out, nice facilities for the arts,

welcoming and not dark and dreary

Updated equipment and newer looking facilities

Updated facilities, current technology, no worries of old building being

harmful to kids (asbestos, lead pipes, moldy carpets, water issues, leaking

roofs)

Well kept and maintained facilities, the building size should match that of

enrolled students.

Where basics like heat and clean water aren't an issue. A facility that

provides space for therapists, tutors, and others an appropriate work space.

14



RESULTS

Question 7

Do you believe updated/newer facilities strengthen our community and make it a better place to live?

Question 8

How well do you believe our facilities currently align with the education needs to be delivered in the future?

0% 50% 100%

Individual

Group

Online

Chart Title

Very Well

Well

Don't Know/No Opinion

Somewhat Well

Not Well

No Consensus

15



RESULTS

Question 9

What is your perception of the overall condition and educational suitability of the District's facilities? (4 = great condition, 1= poor

16



RESULTS

Question 10

If it is determined that a building has reached the end of its useful life, which is the best action for building disposition? (Please select

only one.)

17



RESULTS

Question 11

Please rate the following actions based on level of importance. (4 = Most Important, 1= Least Important)


Athletics/ recreational improvements

Find methods in which facilities (especially higher levels) may generate

operating income & stress education

Rated these against each other

Technology levy/ grants? Already did safety updates?


n/a

Online Comments:

Expand arts programming. More offerings, new offerings (dance, sculpture,

graphic design)

New buildings are great, but the teachers in the building are most

important

Retaining teachers and staff members in the district

Size of schools compared to rising student enrollment

Students should be able to use the school's WIFI!

Supporting diversity programs in school, LGBT/Secular, etc.

Sustainability and green initiatives for education

18



RESULTS

Question 12

As a concept, which of the following grade configurations would you like the District to consider? Check all that apply.


1- PK-3, 1 - 4-7, 1 - 8-12

Pre-K-5, 6-7, 8-9

PK, 1-5, 6-8, 9-12

PK, k-2, 3-5, 6-8, 9-12 1 building each

PK, k-5, (4c 405) 6-8 (1 @1000) 9-12 (1 @ 1550).

Establish & promotes neighborhood unity as well

Pk-2, 3-5, 6-7, 8-9, 10-12

PK-2, 3-5, 6-8, 9-12

PK-2, 3-6, 7-12

PK-2, 3-6, 7-12, 3-7, 8-12

PK-3 (1) 4-6(1) 7-12(1)

PK-3 (2@ 600), 4-5 (2@ 600), 7-8 (1@ 700), 9-12 (1@

1530)

Pk-3, 4-6 (7), 8-12 (7)

Pk-3, 4-6, 7-12

PK-3, 4-6, 7-9, 10-12. PK-2, 3-5, 6-8, 9-12

PK-3/ 4-6/ 7-9/ 10-12

PK-4 (2 each) 5-8 1 each, 9-12 1 each. PK-4

divided into 3 separate wings (PK-K, 1-2, 3-4)

PK4 (2), 5-8 (2), 9-12 (1)

PK-4, 5-8, 9-12

PK-5 (1 @ 1000), 6-8 (1@ 1000) 9-12 (1@1530)

Pk-5 (4@ 450), 6-8 (1@1000) 9-12 (1@1530)

Pk-5, 6-7, 8-9, 10-12

Pk-5, 6-8, 9-12

PK-K, 2 K-2, 1 3-5, 1 6-8, 1 9-12

PreK-3 option?


Pre-k is very important

Neighborhood elements

Either one or two buildings for PK-5

Online Comments:

Like it the way it is. Group by grades. Slowly

introduces more and more children to each

other each year

Our district is divided, sadly not in a good way.

The division of Applegrove cuts this district in

half… The haves and the have nots, this is real

PK-4 (4), 5-8 (1), 9-12 (1)

PK-5(4 bldgs.), 6-8(1 bldg.), 9-12(1 bldg.)

Pre-3, 4-6, 7-8, 9-12

Pre-K needs to remain separate from other grade

levels

Pre-k, K-5, 6-8, 9-12

Prek-3, 4-6, 7-12

Smallest possible schools, the smaller the facility

the lower the teacher-student ratio, the higher

chance for student success

Indiv idual Group Online

Pre-K, K-2 (2 @ 450), 3-5 (2 @ 450), 6-8 (1 @ 1,000), 9-12 (1 @ 1,530) 46 8 107

PK-5 (2 @ 900), 6-8 (1 @ 1,000), 9-12 (1 @ 1,530) 49 10 94

PK-8 (2 @ 1,400), 9-12 (1 @ 1,530) 2 0 7

PK-6 (2 @ 1,050), 7-12 (1 @ 2,200) 8 2 8

PK-5 (2 @ 900), 6-12 (1 @ 2,500) 2 0 10

Other 20 1 10

No Consensusn/a

5n/a

19



RESULTS

Question 13

Please rate the importance of the following factors for your choices above.

ImportantNo

Opinion

Not

ImportantImportant

No

Opinion

Not

Important

No

ConsensusImportant

No

Opinion

Not

Important

Age difference between

students73 5 2 12 0 0 0 169 6 11

Program focus (e.g., STEM, fine

arts, language immersion, etc.)72 8 0 12 0 0 0 136 32 14

Limiting the number of times a

student changes schools16 27 37 1 2 8 1 75 39 70

Trav el time to and from school 35 27 18 4 2 4 1 97 43 43

Online ResponsesGroup (paper) ResponsesIndividual (paper) Responses

20



RESULTS

Question 14

Please share any other factors that influenced your choices in questions 12 & 13.


# of bodies that need to be situated/ served before academics can start.

Example: breakfast. Bus arrival.

1) Middle school students can take classes at High School. 2) Middle school

and high school can share staff. 3) 1 drop off site for busing. 4) More

teacher collaboration. 5) Siblings are more likely to be the same building.

A Pk-2 building allows for more age appropriate instruction and focus. The

current K-2 bldgs. have been helpful in aligning service and instructional

focus. The age of students must be considered to provide safety and

protection to them.

Ability for staff to collaborate. Ability to move staff as needed. Sharing

resources - nurse, librarian, etc.

Ability to better align programming. Less building operations costs. Better

able to staff the buildings. All PK-8 students need/deserve 21st century

facilities, it's cost effective to build/renovate only 3 buildings than 5 buildings.

Age is big concern in my opinion - keep them grouped in small ranges.

Travel time is not a major concern now, considering 57% of students live

North of Applergrave - yet travel South to go to MS/ HS. 1 305 building

(current MS). New MS built. Eliminate older facility(s) -> GT?

All of this depends on the configuration of buildings. We could conceivably

have a conjoined middle/ high school that are separated, yet joined at a

common location. I would like to see a middle school that is designed as a

middle school. Our current configuration is extremely inefficient.

As a parent, it can be difficult to navigate multiple elementary schools, and

be engaged with each school at the same time.

As an educator, I feel it is very important for children to feel safe and secure

in their environments. If a Pk-5 child is in a setting any larger than our current

configuration, I feel it may cause anxiety for children and parents.

As long as the district can maintain separation of ages, as they do today at

the middle school for example, the age difference is not a huge factor. I feel

PK-K should be kept entirely separate from standard K-12 students.

Availability of programs across grade levels (for example, CCP, accelerated

math courses, jumpstart)

Be mindful of age difference in buildings. Pre-K is growing. 8th to HS for

programming.

Came from a K-5, 6-8, 9-12 school district. Thought that the concept worked

well especially b/c age difference/ maturity.

Cost effectiveness of services (teaching staff, support staff, etc.). Sound

goals and vision with more streamlined/ combined buildings.

Cost of running multiple buildings. The less schools there are, the easier

transportation will be.

District already went through a major change not too long ago. We were

told it was research based.

Ease of use. Transportation. Feeling of connectedness. Opportunities for kids .

Special education?

Ensure K-5 Students get more individual educator attention during earlier

years. Ensure 9-12 students experience race and economic class diversity,

which they will experience in college as well.

Expose to older kids on buses gat better when we transitioned from 1-6 to K-

2/ 3-5/ 6-8/ 9-12. Kids got moved a lot. Need to be very cautious.

Fewer buildings = lower operational cost, but better programming.

Grades 7& 8 taking high school classes -> need to at least be close proximity.

Equity.

Grouping by social/ developmental needs.

I am concerned with very young Prek to 6 interacting with older students.

Prefer to identify developmental breakdowns to divide up appropriately.

Also concerned with whether younger students would be riding the same

bus with older students. Too many opportunities for inappropriate influences.

I believe the current configuration is working well within our school district.

The ages are considered.

21



RESULTS

Question 14


I have heard a lot of positive feedback about the current structure of our

district. I think keeping students grouped in similar age clusters makes sense.

I like the smaller age groups because the entire environment can focus on

age-appropriate activities/ programs. Administrators become specialized

with this age group and can be more effective instructional leaders.

I think it is a good idea to introduce "younger" students to "older" student s

some kids operate at a higher level than the grade they are in, so its a good

idea to keep kids interested at their own intellectual level.

I think the grades on a building should be decided by what grades are

taught best together in 1 building -- from a curriculum viewpoint.

I would like to see a "campus: for MS HS, along with 1 mega elementary near

geographic canter of district.

If we consolidate resources and concentrate on combining the schools, and

not have 2 schools each of the lower grade, we could focus on those

grades more and hopefully achieve better efficiency. Our district is not that

big where we need several elementary grade schools. Older kids on the bus

with younger kids generally is not a good thing.

It is important to keep the age difference between students small. Allowing

the PK students to be in the building helps with the transition from PK to K

because teachers can communicate more effectively. At times,

communication seems to get lost.

Large number of students in a building is cumbersome to navigate start/ end

times and drop off and dismissal. Smaller schools provides the chance for my

child to remain with a core group of students year after year, and not split

into different homerooms.

Larger school - more issue: traffic, lunch times, dismissal.

Maturity of 5th/6th grades makes it difficult to have them integrated into a

building with Pk-4th grades. Having a lot larger range in one building allows

for peer mentoring both at elementary (PK-4) MS (5-8) and HS (9-12)

Needs to be geographically oriented - what if northern part of town is

annexed?

No building is to large, which keeps some level of intimacy.

Pk-3 seem to group students by developmental needs. Every level would

have a "tested" level. The high stakes test would be in a safe, comfortable

environment the kids are used to. Would keep a neighborhood feel. 4-6 - 6th

grade seems to align closer to 4th and 5th graders.

Pk-5 configuration is too large, or too wide of a window within the learning

curriculum. There ages need greater concentration on self before enabling

transitions in larger groups.

PreK K-2/ elementary learning students begin finding "passions" direction the

learn as much from each other "older: help "younger". 6-8 pre-focus -

experimental for students "try" different things. 9-12 Focus on the choices

made.

Q 12 - I like Pre K separate. 9-12 together, Don't care for 6-12. Q13 - Age

difference can be positive if utilized in potential mentoring. Can be negative

with social issues.

Quantities of students in a grade level at a primary level (i.e., K-5)

Safety, change and new school can be fun and exciting. Staff focus.

Since NCCS switched to K-2, 3-5, 6-8, 9-12, it is beneficial in having students

grouped with those closer in age - versus having K and 1st grade with 6th to

8th graders. It helps while in the school buildings and also while on school

buses.

STEM careers are where highly sought after jobs will be - we need to prepare

our students for something other than college.

The amount of land we have

There are some finished savings to the district going from 7 building to 4

buildings. (food service, transportation, other non-instructional positions).

Also, the district can pull resources - everything from playground equipment/

library books to computer/ technical assistance.

Too many: busses, schedules, buildings, etc. For multiple student homes. I

have 4 @ 4 different buildings.

22



RESULTS

Question 14


Travel time not as important because district is not as large as some. Perhaps

new buses purchased to make transportation times shorter.

Young children need to be with other young children. Although they may

never see older students when they are in school, a high student population

cause chaos to children who can easily be distracted.


Be mindful of age difference in buildings. Pre-k is growing. 8th to high school

for programming. Teacher collaboration. Easier to share stuff.

Too many buses, some need to take more than 1 bus per family. Streamline

buses.

Inequity of demographics

Do what is best for the kids. Depends on the amount of land we have

available. Age difference between students.

Travel time is important for those who live in outer perimeter of district.

7th and 8th taking high school classes - proximity. Feeling of connectedness.

Equity. Community model. Cost. Special education offerings. Parking and

traffic.

Grouping students by development and social needs. Neighborhoods still

important - not in favor of one giant campus.

One member wants a 7-12 building - Availability of programs that affect 7-

12. CCP, Jumpstart, analyze cost / effectiveness of reducing our building

from 7 to 4 or 5.

Online Comments:

6th graders need to be out of the middle school. They are too young to be in

the same building as 8th graders. Green Local Schools have a nice set up of

schools.

7th and 8th graders would benefit from access to 9th and 10th grade classes

without bussing back and forth between buildings; 7th and 8th graders

would have access to better non-classroom facilities

A school with a limited age group increases the chances that all activities at

the school are age appropriate and staff develops strategies for

management that are suited to the age group. Programs available are

more targeted and staff can collaborate well to make the facility the best

example of education at each level.

Ability to offer expanded programming for early childhood

Age difference between students in a facility is of great importance. Having

lived previously in a district with 6-12 together, I am confident in my

statement that such a grouping is detrimental for the younger students.

Travel time to and from school via bus is of great concern as, the more time

that students are in school buses, which do not have seatbelts, the longer

their safety is at risk. In addition, longer travel time diminishes sleep and/or

homework time. Familiarity with a building, especially for younger students,

helps to facilities confidence and comfort in the physical space, which

makes readiness for learning more likely, in comparison to spending energies

on learning new spaces and buildings guidelines and operating procedures

frequently, which diminish energies for focusing on learning. However,

having the youngest of the student population in facilities that focus on their

needs, as opposed to mixing them in with much older students, who are

typically in very different stages of their development, has great potential for

negative impact.

Age differences matter. Elementary students should NOT be w/middle

school kids and/or high school. Middle school must be separate from high

school, & high school should be separate. Also, keep supportive diverse

programs in school, LGBT support and SECULAR values in school-separation

of church & state in PUBLIC schools!!!

Age...

Approx. 900 kids in a PK-5 building seems like a lot

At the elementary level, I am a fan of smaller schools. They seem to work

better as a school "family" and teaming/working together as a smaller staff

produces better results all around. I teach in another Stark County district in a

K-4 setting (530 students at one school, 300 at the other school).

23



RESULTS

Question 14


As a parent it is of utmost importance my child does not feel like a number in

the crowd. A smaller school footprint allows them to get to know teachers

and staff on a much more personal level. The smaller size has helped my

anxious child adjust quickly and feel comfortable in an environment he

knows well. A limited number of grades helps, especially the younger

students, to provide a sense of security and limits intimidation. When looking

at school options before our child started kindergarten the small size K-2 size

and building set up is one of the reasons we decided to send our children to

North Canton. The only reason our child rides the bus is because of the

limited ages represented on the bus. A school with a grater age difference

would change this and therefore change our opinion of letting our child ride

the bus. The school day is already exceptionally long for a small child. It

takes us months to adjust to the long day at the start of the school year.

Living close to the school and shortening the day as much as possible by

limiting travel time is very important to us.

Avoiding duplication of services.

Avoiding fragmentation of administration and facility maintenance while

maintaining logical groupings of students.

Building MS in front of the HS so resources and facilities can be shared such

as athletic spaces, fine arts, and fab labs.

By combining the younger children into a PK-5 school, there would be less

variability in start/end times across the grade levels. This will decrease the

logistics for parents with multiple children, particularly those with

employment commitments. This benefit will also extend to extra-curricular

activities and parent-involved events (Meet the Teacher nights, etc.). A PK-

5th school will also allow students to attend the same school as a similarly-

aged sibling for a longer period of time. By spending more time in one

school, students and parents will have more continuity with fellow students,

staff, teachers and other families over the years which will build a better

sense of community. This creates a stronger foundation for the middle and

high school environment.

Current system seems to work well.

Changing schools too many times is a hassle but not changing schools at all

or a limited amount makes doing it later on harder

Children I have in the district. Future enrollment numbers, Cost of changing

the facilities structure

Consolidating makes sense as long as that does not result in school being

built at a significant distance away that would cause lengthy travel. The

expectation is that the reduction in number of facilities would lower cost.

kindergarten, 1st, 2nd should not be with 7&8 grades as the smaller (& older)

children need some separation, which is why k-5 & 6-8 was chosen. it would

be nice for children 3 years apart to be in the same school along the way

whereas the current system does not put them together until high school.

Cost!! level it as is. any parent that wants to pay more should be bills. leave

the rest of us alone!

Enough staff and administrators to maintain the safety of the building and

ensure policy

Facility consolidation and transportation reduction could save the district

money over the long run.

For K-5, I don't like lots of sections in one grade level in one building. I would

rather see fewer sections at each grade level and more grade levels in one

building.

Going to 4 schools all over town through 12 years is strenuous on the students

as well as parents. The loss of the "neighborhood" elementary school took

away a great system.

I am a senior this year and loved my experiences at NCCS. I loved going to

separate elementary schools and slowly being introduced to other kids my

age instead of throwing everyone together at once. Really helps with social

skills in the future. The system we have instilled today may be even better at

it. Don't think it is a good idea to change the current model.

I feel the pre-K is a great program and needs to remain separate , these

children are very young and would be distracted and overwhelmed in a

larger building.

24



RESULTS

Question 14


I am not opposed to the current district configuration, in fact we have

adjusted and accepted it. I do, however, believe there are possible

advantages to my children (MS age) interacting with younger and older

students. My children have had the opportunity to mentor younger,

elementary age students which fostered pride and responsibility. I believe

my children could equally benefit if exposed to HS students. Things like

working together on a community service project or school project would be

great. I also worry what my children may be exposed to.

I currently have 2 kids in school. One in kindergarten at Clearmount (she

attended Mary L. Evans for preschool). And one at Orchard Hill in 3rd grade.

I absolutely love Clearmount! I'm sad that they have such a short time at

Clearmount. The staff is AMAZING! Though the building is on the older side, I

love it's location. Its in a quiet neighborhood. Should it need rebuilt, it would

be amazing to have it in the same location. And I'd love to have the kids not

switch schools so often. But at the same time I question if it would be good

having 5th graders in with kindergarten. Times have definitely changed. But

it could also be a good thing. Have the oldest class volunteer to help out in

the younger classes during lunch and recess. Could teach responsibility.

I feel keeping the schools smaller in the elementary ages, ex:450-500

students, it creates a better connection between the students and staff.

Which then creates a more personal experience within the school. Not only

for the staff and students but also for the parents and families. When a

school gets large, the students are easier lost in the shuffle. Whole school

connections are lost and with that the sense of community!

I feel that it would be very beneficial for all students in each grade level to

be in one school to aide in collaboration and share resources. All students in

N Canton should have the same quality standards in their playground and

library as just two examples. I feel that the benefits of having a campus with

all grade levels together outweighs the travel time students would be bused

and the cost of the busing the students.

I like how the schools are configured right now because it leads to more age

appropriate activities, however the travel time on the elementary and

intermediate levels are too long.

I feel with the k-2 buildings. the behavior issues have increased as their is no

one to model behavior expectations at these buildings. I also feel that

academics have been decreased with the current building configurations

as there is no peer tutoring that can be done such as reading together,

older to younger. The younger kids' bus times have creeped to getting home

at such a late date that pickups by parents have increased exponentially at

the k-2 buildings.

I have a very real concern about the age difference between students and

the number of students in each school. Elementary aged children (K-5) do

not need to be going to school with kids twice their size. I strongly believe

bullying and harassment will be a major issue should a K-8 or 6-12 building be

created.

I have FOUR children who attend FOUR schools. That's 4 buses, 4 special

calendars, 4 different locals if I have to pick up for a doctor/dentist. If 1 child

is sick, another cannot bring home their work etc. We live within WALKING

distance to Northwood, yet my 3rd grader spends almost an HOUR on the

bus ONE WAY to Greentown. Ridiculous. If we had known the district would

do this, we would not have purchased this house.

I have seen positives since the last grade reconfiguration took place. It is

important to not have a large age range within one building. That would

also be way too many kids in one building. Our district isn't so large that

travel time is an issue.

I have three children in three different buildings and I teach at a neighboring

district. It is a lot of schedules to coordinate and my kids miss seeing each

other at school. Moreover one of my children is on the bus for 30 minutes but

I cannot pick her up because my daughter at Orchard Hill arrives home

when parent pick-up is for Clearmount.

I like having the older students in the building as leaders and not just younger

children. The elementary day is very long. Part of it is due to transportation to

all of the buildings. Less buildings to go to would alleviate that problem. All

elementary students could finish at the same time instead of intermediate

finishing first and the elementary finishing last.

25



RESULTS

Question 14


I like how the schools are configured right now because it leads to more age

appropriate activities, however the travel time on the elementary and

intermediate levels are too long.

I like the current way the grades are broken up. It gives the students the most

specialized interaction and enhancement of education and much more

access to specialized programs and technologies that other facilities that

are overcrowded and larger without such a great focus severely lack.

I like the idea of a large cohesive campus with different ages/grades

separated from one another as well.

I still believe that 6th grade is elementary level. You can combine grades 7-

12 in one building but keep them separate within the building (i.e. Jr. High

wing/HS wing)

I think kids should be grouped by ages as there are challenges at different

levels. I think the primary and intermediate could be merged but would

hesitate to merge middle school with this group. I also think middle school

age kids are best served away from high schoolers. They grow up so quickly

and are so insecure at this age. Being with high schoolers would prove

detrimental for some of those students. They grow up quickly enough.....

I think that it is important to give young students ample time to adjust to

going to school, both for the new educational and social environments. I

believe throwing them into a large group of other students can be

intimidating and may prevent them from finding their way within a new

experience. As far as program focus is concerned, math and sciences are

extremely important and should be cultivated from a very young age. Focus

in these areas wouldn't steer children away from fine arts, but would build a

foundation of curiosity and critical thinking skills that would likely see them

being more successful in other pursuits.

I want my daughter to be around her own age group. I would not her

around students who are much older.

I would not be good to have older students in with younger students. Young

children should not be exposed to older students.

It is very difficult for families a multiple children to have them in multiple

schools.

It should be available to be in concert/symphonic band without being in

marching band.

I've taught in PreK-5 and 1-5 bldgs. which add a great dynamic, allow

teacher's to really develop and maintain long term relationships with

students and their families, and create a community of learners that I've not

seen in K-2. The older students are leaders that the younger students look up

to. Nothing similar exists in K-2 bldgs. Do not want to see elementary bldgs.

with 900 kids. That is ridiculous!

Kids need structure and security. If they are in the same school seeing the

same teachers it helps them with both. I am concerned with young kids

being with older. They already learn too much from older students while on

the bus and right now they are split by age groups. I would rather see a

campus with buildings separated (yet connected) then merging more

grades together. I also do not like when student spend a long time on the

bus. It builds anxiety and also allows misbehavior to happen more readily.

Location

Maturity levels of students and number of students in a building

More focus should be put toward Vocational Schools with more options.

Not all North Canton students are college material and that is OK. Trade

personnel is needed. Q16 comments If land procurement is available, I

would recommend 3 sites. 2 PK - 5 and 6-8 building and 9-12 building on

same campus. Operations should be the least costly in this formula.

My first choice is the Pre-K-5, 6-8 and 9-12. My second is the Pre-K-8 and 9-12.

I think having four buildings is more efficient than having seven. I think having

a PreK-5 building is wonderful because it's beneficial for the older kids to

serve as mentors to the younger kids and even offers opportunities for a

buddy program. Having kids in the same building for at times seven years

(1st choice) builds a real community between the kids, teachers and

administration.

26



RESULTS

Question 14


Number of students per school.

Overall # of students in the building.

Peer tutoring can be useful for all teaches social skills as well as fosters

community.

Pre-K needs to be integrated into an elementary building in order for our

preschool students to have a much smoother transition to kindergarten. A

Pre-k-2 configuration would also support peer model relationships with older

student role models for our preschool students.

Pre-K to 5 is way to big of an age gap between students. Preschool and

Kindergarten students should not be in the same building as fifth graders.

Preschool should be a part of an elementary building to support and ease

students' transitions to kindergarten and better serve the needs of students

and staff.

Preschool should not be a separate entity. It currently exists as a separate

entity due to space, not educational "best practice". There are many

benefits to our youngest learners being a part of their future elementary

school. Our preschoolers can learn from older peers and our older students

can be mentors to younger students. Many of our preschoolers have

significant challenges and transition to school-age is more seamless when

school-age staff and teachers have known those preschoolers for several

years prior to participating in their classroom. There is value to housing all

preschoolers at one elementary school. The challenging students can be

spread out among several teachers, not just two classrooms. The support

staff plays a huge role in servicing these students and excess travel time to

provide services and two different sites negatively effects collaboration and

the services provided on a daily basis.

Preschool students should be with other grades so they have peers. 6th

graders are so young. Not sure they should be with 7th and 8th graders.

Proximity for 6-8 to 9-12 buildings would allow for a better transition for

Jumpstart students, and keep a fluid relationship to exist between both

buildings.

Recent change to K-2, 3-5 negatively impacted many families with multiple

children who now attend different elementary schools. While 4

neighborhood K-5 schools are not cost effective, we should consider moving

to 2 K-5 schools.

Since the 6th graders went to the middle school I have felt it is too young. 6th

graders are so young and need that extra year to develop.

Smaller school size for younger grade levels create a sense of community

within the school

Specialized grade level buildings make it easier to focus on academic

improvement and scaffolding.

Sporting teams starting at 7th grade...athletic facilities could be all in one

and accessible to all grade levels

Teachers can collaborate more when the grades are limited in the building.

The programs are also designed for that age group.

The district can save $ by pooling resources by combining schools.

There is value in having younger students in the same neighborhood school

for an extended period of time. Staff gets to know the students and families.

A "family" is created and the older students are encouraged to model and

mentor the younger students.

This district is broken when it comes to this issue...The configuration of the

schools has split our district and community in half...I am getting that there is

a certain "group" of people that feel Greentown is not "good" enough for

their kids...I am not going to support any kind of levy to change this. I live on

the side of town that some would say is less appealing... which is funny to

me. This district needs to support ALL kids in it. And make ALL schools better.

Otherwise it will only deepen the divide.

Too many changes in location in current configuration. Siblings going to

different schools when only 1-2 grades apart. Current configuration is a lot

of separate facilities to operate, staff, maintain, etc.

We do not want to see middle school on same campus as high school.

Elementary students should not be in a facility with 900+ children.

27



RESULTS

Question 14


We have to remember the most important part of North Canton is the actual

education. Not spending needlessly for a building that is really usable. It is

more important to get textbooks and good teachers then having a fancy

school.

28



RESULTS

Question 15

How many total school sites do you believe the district should operate? (Note: One site may have more than one building).

29



RESULTS

Question 16

Weighing the balance between fiscal responsibility and low student - teacher ratios, what do you feel the ideal class size is for

students in North Canton City School District? (Please select one for each grade range.)

Pre-K

<20

20-25

26-30

>30

30



RESULTS

Question 17

Given that Preschool is not state-funded (with exception of special education), should enough preschool classrooms be planned for

all North Canton City Pre-K students in every elementary school?

Question 18

Small Intimate Schools + Diverse Educational Programs = Small Intimate Schools with Diverse

Programs that are expensive to operate.

Diverse Educational Programs + Low Operational Costs = Diverse Educational Program in a larger

school to keep costs down.

Small Intimate Schools + Low Operational Costs = Small Intimate Schools with limited programs to

keep costs down.

Please answer the following question regarding school size. Keep in mind that the enrollment may fluctuate based on desired class

size, but student to teacher ratios would remain the same. Chose your two (2) preferences from the image above.

Small Intimate

Schools

Diverse

Educational

Programs

Low

Operational

Cost

31



RESULTS

Question 19

In your opinion, where should PK spaces be located in the District?


Contained at one building

District should start at K

Don’t necessarily think we need it

For an individual cost

One PreK-5 building

Pre-K connected to one of 2 PK-3 buildings

Private Pre-K

Work with local existing Pre-K and find balance within


Lots to consider, step up to quality, special services, etc.

Connected to one Kindergarten building

Not stand alone with one K-2

Online Comments:

Don't need to offer

Families should be responsible for their own PK. This should not be in the

district.

I don't think the district should get into PK

In a new building configuration of Pre-K-5 building I would offer a few

classes.

No need for Pre-K. Plenty of options in North Canton.

No preschool

Not offered

Offered at one of the k buildings, keeping Pre-K together but with K

PK should not be accounted for by the district

PK special education should be at one of the K-2 buildings

Private, self-funded

Private. let the parents of the p-k kids pay!!

Should be privately funded off site

Shouldn't be offered

Shouldn't be PK with other community option available

32



RESULTS

Question 20

190

25

23

27

Special Education

Programs offered at each school

A single centralized center

One center in each location

A combination of locations & schools

The District offers a wide range of services/programs for students. In your opinion, where should these services be located in the

District?

33



RESULTS

Question 20: Comments

The District offers a wide range of services/programs for students. In your opinion, where should these services be located in the

District?


n/a


n/a

Online Comments:

Arts: choir, band, art, etc.

Fine Arts: music and art

Music and art at each school

Nursing staff

One central physical location for all schools; then the special programs can be located in one place

34



RESULTS

Question 21

Please select the top 6 current Career and Technical Education programs that you believe provide students with the most

opportunities after graduation.

35



RESULTS

Question 22

Would you be interested in the District permitting public access to the facilities or developing partnerships with the services or

agencies listed below? If so, please select those you are interested in having the District pursue.


Need to be typed


Mental health

Online Comments:

Any as long as the children are safe

No unless they are charged for all costs

The district should not permit this type of use

This looks like the other question: all but not with

priority

36



RESULTS

Question 23

There are spaces within a school that the State of Ohio does not co-fund. These projects are typically funded by local taxes. As a

local tax payer, how important do you believe the following spaces are in schools? (4 = Most Important, 1= Least Important)

37



RESULTS

Question 24

The following are things that the State does not fund. How important is it to include these in the facilities master plan? (4 = Very

Important, 1= Not Important)

38



RESULTS

Question 25

How likely would it be that you would support a tax increase for the following:

39



RESULTS

Question 25: Comments

How likely would it be that you would support a tax increase for the following:


Athletic fields

Bond issue?

Career tech education

Funding addition staff so each building has equitable services

Indoor swimming facility

Maintaining the arts programs


Career Technical Education

Sports and rec levy

Online Comments:

After school LGBT/Secular Clubs

Enlarging and supplying clinics for student's health

Expansion of arts programming

I feel confident in the current level of safety

Maintaining Arts/Music

More dynamic classroom options, including for diversity of student types and needs

Need to address current overcrowding situation

Pay for teachers

Special education funding

Take care of our teachers

40



RESULTS

Question 26

Is there anything else you would like for us to consider?


An indoor swimming facility is desperately needed.

Better food services for students. More healthy choices, wellness plans.

CTE programs raise money but funds have historically been added to

general fund. The extra funds collected should be separate and available

for CTE programs. Those programs shouldn't be told "there's no money", if it's

being used in GF.

How is it decided which school gets funds for building repairs?

How can we partner up better with the City of North Canton? Ex - Joint rec

cent, community center, fine arts building

I would also like to see a support for professional development courses in

high school.

In all cases we judge each question based on where we are at this moment.

Different district should be investigated, vetted, to see where successes and

failures occurred. WE are not the first district to attempt these changes. Ask

true questions. Akron public school may be an excellent resource.

It is important to maintain a competitive edge drawing potential families to

North Canton.

Keeping quality teachers in this district to educate our children. Making sure

athletic fund distribution is equal for male/ female, each sport, etc.

Length of school day - start/ end times. K-2 day ends so late children don't

have time w/ family or after school activities. Parking/ pick-up and drop off

areas

Length of school day start/ end elementary day is currently too late. Parking.

pick- up/ drop off flow

Length of school day- Start/ end times

No matter which course we choose full transparency in the community is

critical to the future success of it. Communication is crucial.

Parking and drop off/ pick up flow at each location.

Please consider all option before determining if a building has reached its

useful life. I live close to a school and insist that it remain a school.

Staff -pay freeze etc.

Teachers haven't received a raise on the base since pre-2010 and won't until

2020. It will be difficult to get grassroots support without increasing operating

levy monies.

Three questions show that the district is moving toward asking the community

for money to build new facilities. Teacher have already sacrificed much in

the past 7 years (with a step freeze and no base salary raise in 10 years after

current contract). The work is low because of this.

Vocational classes not offered as often as they used to

We absolutely must attract and hire the best teachers and support staff that

we can. We must again make teaching in the NCCS a goal for all of those

who enter education in NE Ohio!

We already have PI for #1-5. Where is new $ for building?

WE have a strong Arts Program and we need to make sure that the

deficiencies in arts facilities are addressed!

We have cut options for our students significantly over the last 10 years. I

would like to see us return to optimal staffing levels in all areas including the

classroom, monitors, counseling, nurses, special education, etc.

You showed an analysis of where students live now. That will change in 10-20

years. What will this district look like in 50 years? I anticipate that homes in the

senior-heavy Southern part of the district will begin to turn over to young

singles and married couples with no kids. Where will the new housing be

built? Will the taxpayers volunteer to raise the taxes when new residents are

promised tax breaks.


Find better ways to partner with the City. Joint CRE center. Community

center. Fine arts center.

41



RESULTS

Question 26


Length of school day and start/ end times. Parking. Pick-up/ Drop-off flow at

each location.

Transparency and communication is critical for this process. Programming

needs to be discussed.

I would like to see us return to optimal staffing levels in all areas including the

classroom, monitors, counseling, nurses, special education, etc.

Online Comments:

A building's function should take priority over whether or not it is historical (i.e.

Hoover has roof problems that have not been fixed– for over 6 years it has

leaked)

A pool for the swim team

Accountability for teachers

At 92 years of age, the Mary Evans Early Childhood Center/Portage Building

should be a priority. The heat is inconsistent and the water is not drinkable in

some areas. The environment does not meet the current needs of our staff

and preschoolers (i.e. changing rooms, sensory rooms, appropriate space for

therapists, etc.). Also, our special needs population continues to grow as the

dynamics of North Canton have changed over the years. In just six years our

preschool classroom size as grown from 2 classrooms (a.m./p.m.) to 5

classrooms (a.m./p.m.). We serve over 100 students (typical peers and

Special Education students). Additional space for the possibility of state-

mandated preschool is something to consider. I love the idea of putting all

our students together per grade. No more comparisons... many feel if you

are in 2nd grade and go to X you get "better" services than if you go to Y.

There are differences between our current elementary schools. All of our

students should have equal access (i.e. guidance counselors, more

differentiated special education services, behavior specialists, etc.) and that

is not the case currently. I'm excited to see what the future will bring for North

Canton Schools and fully support the process.

Athletic facilities, currently there are not enough appropriately sized indoor

facilities to accommodate middle school athletics and the youth programs.

Centralized schools within city limits close to police and fire since they are

both full time. Full time police in 3 centralized buildings 1 per building- 3 total.

More police dog searches without kids being notified. More offers for

vocational education. Hire teachers as coaches not outside people it is

embarrassing that a district like ours has non teachers in high profile

coaching positions such as boys basketball and girls basketball.

Clearmount could use a larger updated facility. But would love to keep it in

the same location! More/better arts programs for younger kids. Have

younger kids (starting in pre-k/ kindergarten) do a Christmas program.

Parents love that stuff! Offer a variety of vocational programs. I marked 6 I

though we're important. But I could have marked much more.

Cosmetology, automotive, hospitality (run a restaurant), health related

classes (take college courses for nursing in high school), agricultural science,

computer science, businesses, finance (all kids should be required to take

basic finance classes, managing money, etc.). I could go on. Not everyone

goes to college. And honestly not everyone needs to. Though I hope all kids

go, they won't. No one wants to pay for student loans the rest of their life.

And technical jobs are just as important. And could even help kids work

through college. Small class sizes. Its proven kids learn better when class sizes

are smaller. More hands on learning, even for the older kids. Not everyone

learns the same. Not everyone learns well out of a book.

Consider space for guidance counselors, sensory rooms for students with

special needs, open spaces to work with students by support staff other than

in the classroom itself, meeting rooms for staff, a computer lab at the

elementary level and staff to teach computers at the primary level. There

needs to be more equality between the buildings.

Definitely leave room for upkeep in the future. The high school's roof has

leaked for how many years or trouble with air conditioning or heat in so

many rooms that should be addressed.

42



RESULTS

Question 26


Don't depend on technology to replace teachers or books. Keep arts strong.

Depend less on sports for local reputation (club sports would be a great

alternative) What's best for the children is best for the community. More

space is needed for 21st century teaching and learning

Even with all of these plans that will take years to change, current facilities

need things fixed. Carpet in many classrooms need to be replaced (20+

years old), cracks in cinder block walls need to be caulked, leaking sinks and

faucets (7+ years) need to be replaced, heat/ac needs to be able to be

controlled in each room because the computerized controls for building do

not work efficiently (it is either freezing cold or roasting hot but nothing in

between)! The lack of district administration asking teachers for their input is

disheartening and disappointing! Many of these educators are former

students and/or residents of North Canton.

High-quality teachers are the most important element in any school setting

I graduated from Hoover. My children now go to Hoover. We have a great

community...great teachers...great administrators. We need new buildings.

We are in need of more gyms. Just my opinion.

I think there is tremendous value in designing eco-friendly educational

institutions. Doing so would provide education for students, lower utility and

maintenance costs and encourage community support.

In regards to district set up - it is a SHAME we do not offer an Open House

opportunity for all students before the start of the school year. This is

something that needs to be addressed through teacher contract setup and

building availability. The opportunity for EVERY child to be able to see where

their classroom is, what their teacher looks like, and where to go on the first

day is imperative. The smaller the school we can start our children off in the

better chance they have to appropriately adjust to the rigors of a school

day. The school size can continue to increase as the years progress, but that

small start is so critical especially for students who have little to no prior

school experience. Provide an enticing vision of what is to come for our

community and the chance of funding it will be far greater. This is a great

place to live, let's make it even better.

I would support anything for the school district if it's best for the children. I

think Hoover is way behind in many areas.

In the area of curriculum, Spanish should be offered again in the elementary

schools. Social Studies should be realigned as follows: 8th grade American

History to 1865 9th grade American History 1865 to Present 10th grade

World Studies 11th grade American Government 12th grade electives:

Psychology, Sociology, Consumer Economics, (AP courses available in

Psychology, American History, American Government, Economics)

In today's turbulent times it is important that safety and security be focused

upon. The geographical size of our small town would not warrant an Officer

in every school, it just would make economic sense. Of any of the schools

that may require there own school resource officer that maybe Greentown

because it is the furthers from any school. Keep in mind that Clearmount is

just 1 mile or less from Hoover High School. Orchard Hill is under 2 miles from

NCMS and Northwood is only a short distance from Hoover as well. Proper

security procedures in place could keep Schools safe enough while waiting

for response from NCPD or in the rare emergency SCSO Deputy's. The fast

paced world of technology must also be in mind. I am a firm believer that

my children will do more and more computer based work but that should

not replace the hard work of doing simple tasks like cursive and long hand

math.

Keep public schools secular. There should be no involvement w/ any religious

group in a public school setting. Allowing religious groups to rent public

school facilities is wrong. As all students should have the support of public

schools regarding LGBT groups, secular activities and enjoy the separation of

church and state. Schools must fund anti-bullying initiatives, and promote

inclusion and diversity programs that are pro-LGBT, and support minority

views, secular and/or atheist. I don't like the idea of anyone being armed

inside a school. Schools can be safe w/out armed personnel. Implement

martial arts programs, but continue to ban any firearm from buildings.

Kids do not need big, beautiful buildings to learn well. Money should be

spent on quality instructors and technology to facilitate learning.

43



RESULTS

Question 26


Later school hours, sports non-competitive, marching band not required if in

band, no standardized testing (AIR, PARK, etc.), stricter with immature/unruly

students. Only for high school.

Make the schools and staff child friendly.

Manage scope, resist investing if it doesn't improve student and teacher

experience to support the outcome to educate as #1. We support

involvement in sports for our children and others but education needs to be

first for this community to thrive. Technology for technology sake is a waste of

$. Before spending $ on the latest technology, ask yourself if it will improve

teacher productivity and the learning experience for students. We don't

need more ways for our children to play video games with school funding

(i.e. Chrome books already do a good job of that). However, there must be

something better than schoology to manage the core information. Great

approach thus far in how you are tackling the challenges ahead and

presenting the information so effectively. Looking forward to future

communications on the same and what you are able to come up with.

Math Curriculum needs to be addressed. I also feel that middle school

academics in the form of exploratory need to be addressed to

accommodate students that are not interested in stem based programs. We

are not a stem school and the programs that are offered lean heavily to that

curriculum. In regards to facilities parking issues as well as in and out for pick

up needs to be addressed.

My sons graduated through the North Canton District and I was very pleased

with their education and their college preparedness. However, I do feel that

more funding and time should be dedicated to non-academics. There

should be greater opportunity for career guidance, "real life" college

prep...not the academics, but preparing them for the day-to-day college

experience. And the fine arts are in great need for improvement - a better/

bigger stage area....practice rooms for the students...more funding for the

grade school and middle school students to better prepare them for high

school and beyond opportunities in music and art.

Need an additional gym at high school

No matter how nice our schools look, we need to take care of the educators

that are teaching our youth.

No new money until the system is returned to former quality

Noise abatement in the middle school cafeteria

North Canton is a great place to live. However, our buildings and facilities do

not fit our name. I go to other districts for my children's athletic or art extra

curricular activities and see what others have. We are not even close. The

middle school athletic and art facilities are extremely limited. Many schools

are hosting different types of tournaments/competitions and we could never

be able to do so because of the lack of facilities. Locker rooms, proper

practice facilities, performing arts locations are not up to modern day

standards. This also goes right into safety concerns. I.E. Being at a MS or HS

school track meet and runners/coaches at the meet almost being hit by foul

baseballs. Also, middle school track runners dodging lacrosse balls during

practices as lacrosse is on the field warming up for a game.

Parents are responsible for paying for too many additional fees, curriculum

like workbooks, WIFI on personal devices, and other resources compared to

other schools. Times have changed and this must be addressed.

Please closely consider the various needs for different ages. For example, a

large K-2 leads to children with different students in their classes every year

and other problems such as not enough time for simple things such as eating

their lunch. High school students face challenges of principals not being

able to monitor everyone due to enrollment size. This leads to other

problems such as the bathroom serving as a vaping room for unruly students.

In addition, we have no interest in ever transitioning to year round school. It

is also not taxpayers responsibility to pay for preschool. This is another

financial burden. The PTOs within the elementary should not run the school.

The administration should have the authority not a PTO. Money raised by the

PTO should be put back into the classroom and not used to purchase items

such as k-cups and laminators. In closing, thank you for asking for feedback

as we have never been asked.

44



RESULTS

Question 26


Please do not forget about the preschool in this transition. The preschool

students need to be integrated with kindergarten classrooms.

Please fix the holes in the ceilings and the dripping of water coming from

them in the high school

Put your kid gloves on if you want to pass a levy.

Schools should be for students to learn in. From what I have been hearing,

the students are running amuck at the high school. Why are we paying 4

principals if they can not do their jobs? There is a written student handbook

but none of what is in it is enforced, why have it then? It sounds to me that

there are far to many employees trying to befriend the students and not be

there to keep order and educate them, as they are paid to do. This needs

corrected ASAP. The buildings mean nothing if are full of mayhem.

The first question should have an answer for rating of the school. The schools

overall rating is the only thing I would consider when choosing a school to

send my child to.

The taxpayers. Quit asking us for more money. My taxes have doubled in 10

years because of you. I can't wait to get out of this town!!

To run and operate high quality schools with top notch programs, you must

have a well trained staff. In order to have the best staff, you must be willing

to pay them top salaries to attract the best leaders and teachers for our

future.

We need to be more fiscally responsible. Letting our schools get to the

condition they are in by not maintaining our buildings is irresponsible. I am

hopeful that this will change and new buildings will be maintained and the

cost of this maintenance will be built into the budget.

We should have a pre-k program for kids who are not ready for kindergarten.

We have preschool, and kindergarten. What about the kids that need

somewhere in between?

Well conceived questionnaire. Thanks for the opportunity to provide input.

What's best for kids

You have a wonderful district and I applaud your efforts.

45



RESULTS—Demographics

Question 27

Are you a member of the Steering Committee?

Question 28

Which group best represents you? Please check all that apply.


Community leader

Wife works in district

Online Comments:

Former teacher at Hoover

NCCS Alumni

Past teacher a NCCS

Substitute employee

Volunteer at school

46




Question 29

If you are an employee or retiree of North Canton City School District, what is/was your position? (Please select all that apply.)

Question 30

Are you a resident of the North Canton City School District?


District office

Online Comments:

Anonymous

Food Services

Substitute support staff

47




Question 31

How many years have you lived in the North Canton City School District?

Question 32

With which North Canton City school(s) are you affiliated? (Please select all that apply.)


Children are college grads and working

District

District office

Have worked and served in all

Schools/ throughout teaching tenure

Online Comments:

All buildings

Also personally attended orchard hill, Clearmount,

middle school and high school

Anonymous

Children out of school

Retired

Taught at Hoover, have grandchildren in the system,

had children in the district as well

facility planning framework questionnaire results report ... › nccs › wp-content › uploads ›...

Documents