LORAIN — Four candidates for the Lorain City Schools Board of Education shared their priorities during a student-led town hall at Lorain High School on October 7. Questions from students and community members focused on academics, safety, transparency, and district finances.
Bill Sturgill:
With more than sixteen years on the board, Sturgill is among Lorain’s most experienced education leaders. A lifelong resident and 1968 Lorain High graduate, he has spent decades volunteering and coaching in district programs. His family has deep roots in Lorain schools; his son, Stephen Sturgill, serves as Executive Director of Wraparound Services. Sturgill emphasizes accountability and steady financial management.
Davon Jeffers:
A parent and advocate for children with special needs, Jeffers is a married mother of four who moved to Lorain seven years ago. Three of her children are on the autism spectrum, and she has worked to secure individualized education programs and access to therapy services. She says she’s running to ensure every child receives the support they need to succeed.
Diamaris Rosario:
A licensed social worker and former Lorain City Schools employee, Rosario brings experience in early childhood education, chemical dependency counseling, and behavioral health. She holds an associate degree in early childhood education and a bachelor’s in social work, and served more than four years as treasurer for the Lorain High School marching band boosters. She says she wants to build on recent progress with transparency and community involvement.
Mark Anthony Ballard II:
A Lorain High graduate who went on to earn degrees in economics and law, Ballard returned home and works as a paraprofessional and urban farmer. His campaign centers on career readiness and mentorship. His father, Mark Ballard Sr., currently serves on the Lorain City Schools Board of Education.
Question: What do you think can be done to make Lorain High School more appealing to parents and community members?
Sturgill praised the modern facility and said stronger landscaping and presentation could build pride. Jeffers proposed parent-teacher listening sessions to strengthen cooperation and restore confidence. Rosario emphasized a welcoming atmosphere and open communication. Ballard backed expanding career-technical programs and creating certification opportunities for students and parents alike.
Question: How do you feel about the district moving away from block scheduling, and do you think it should be brought back?
Jeffers said the shift deserves review to reduce student stress and preserve instructional quality. Rosario favored surveying students and staff before any future change. Sturgill said adjustments take time and trusted educators to determine what works best. Ballard noted that scheduling often follows state credit and graduation requirements.
Question: How can Lorain City Schools expand opportunities for students who don’t plan to attend college—like trade programs, job training, or certifications?
All four supported expanding vocational and hands-on learning. Sturgill urged partnerships with local unions to add trades such as electrical work. Rosario and Jeffers backed developing a nursing pathway. Ballard called for employer partnerships that connect coursework directly to local jobs.
Question: What are your thoughts on the policy that prevents students from receiving a grade lower than fifty percent? Do you think it helps or hurts students?
Rosario said the rule lowers expectations and should be reexamined. Ballard suggested pairing grading policies with tutoring and after-school incentives. Sturgill said it was meant to give struggling students a second chance but may need updating. Jeffers favored stronger academic support instead of grade inflation.
Question: The district hasn’t passed a new operating levy in more than ten years. What would you do to rebuild community trust and ensure financial stability?
Sturgill warned that without continued local support, Lorain could face financial strain. Jeffers said transparency in spending is key to regaining trust. Rosario stressed clear explanations of how renewal levies affect programs and staffing. Ballard added that frequent updates and measurable goals can demonstrate accountability to taxpayers.
Question: What is your stance on school safety and discipline policies? Do you support zero tolerance, restorative justice, or something in between?
Sturgill said he supports zero tolerance for violence to protect students and staff. Jeffers, Rosario, and Ballard favored proactive approaches such as counseling, early intervention, and social-emotional learning to prevent problems before they escalate.
The evening closed on a hopeful note, with all four candidates highlighting collaboration, transparency, and consistent communication with families as essential to Lorain’s success.
The election for Lorain City Schools Board of Education will take place November 4.