Lorain School Board Splits Over $50K Training Contract, Approves Donations and Hires

A $50,000 professional development contract sparked debate at the Lorain City Schools Board of Education meeting on September 22, 2025. While supporters argued that bringing in nationally known educator Richard Wormeli would help unify grading practices districtwide, critics questioned the cost and whether standards-based grading should be a priority.

Some board members emphasized the need to focus resources on trauma-informed care and other pressing needs, while others said the training was consistent with the district’s strategic plan and would benefit students through clearer, more consistent grading. The contract passed by split vote.

Community Donations

The board approved a wide range of donations, including:

  • $3,000 from the Italian American Veterans (IAV) for wraparound services.
  • $3,000 from IAV for caps, gowns, and personal care items at Success Academy.
  • $1,000 from IAV for PreK social-emotional support materials.
  • A $100 anonymous gift card for Stevan Dohanos Elementary’s PBIS program.
  • Classroom and supply donations for Toni Morrison Elementary and Frank Jacinto Elementary.
  • Donors Choose contributions supporting multiple classrooms.

Staffing Changes

Personnel actions included hiring bus drivers, paraprofessionals, secretaries, and a substitute nurse. The board accepted several resignations and retirements, including a Lorain High School teacher set to leave in June 2026, a maintenance employee effective January 2026, and a secretary retiring October 2025. Contracts with SMART Local 33 and supplemental LPDC positions were also approved, along with an extended agreement for dance teachers.

Facility and Program Contracts

Beyond Wormeli’s training, the board authorized spending for facility upgrades and services, including:

  • $13,167 for a districtwide water treatment program.
  • $10,142 for new metal doors at George Daniel Field.
  • $8,900 for stadium wall painting and $2,800 for bleacher painting.
  • $8,973.50 for BrainPop software for middle school classrooms.
  • $4,890 for Accelerated Reader software in elementary schools.
  • $250 for a SPARK Theatre 4 Youth performance at Toni Morrison Elementary.

Policy Updates

The board approved a series of NEOLA policy updates, including revisions on attendance, school safety, student records, and personal communication devices. A new policy on board member cell phone use was also adopted, with members stressing the importance of avoiding distractions and maintaining public trust during meetings.

Student Attendance Efforts

Superintendent Jeff Graham highlighted efforts to reduce chronic absenteeism, noting progress on the state report card and spotlighting schools with gains. Initiatives include weekly data checks, home visits, the “Tightest Attendance Challenge,” and community-driven events like Fathers Walk. Administrators said the goal is to tackle barriers to attendance early and consistently.

Next Meeting

The next regular board meeting is scheduled for October 13, 2025, at 5:00 p.m. at Lorain High School.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *