Akron Public Schools to Close on Primary Election Day for Student Safety
Starting in 2026, Akron Public Schools students will not attend class on Primary Election Day. The school board voted 6-0 to move a professional development day to May 5, ensuring students are not present when polling takes place inside schools like Resnik Community Learning Center.
The decision centers on protecting the right to education in a safe, secure, and conducive environment, a concern raised by Board Member Rene Molenaur, who cited safety issues when voters share hallways with students.
While the board unanimously agreed, Board Member Barbara Sykes noted the change comes with a cost: students missing the chance to see democracy in action. Still, Superintendent Mary Outley encouraged parents to bring children to the polls since they’ll be out of school.
School Board President Carla Jackson emphasized the importance of civic engagement and keeping civics education strong, especially as many adults remain unregistered or disengaged from voting.
In the same meeting, the board approved a contract with Hasenstab Architects, Inc./Moody Nolan for the North High School rebuild, a project now expected to cost $105 million, up from the $85 million bond voters approved.
Treasurer Steve Thompson outlined funding options to close the gap, including a certificate of participation, tax anticipation notes, and leftover funds from the Local Fund Initiative, pending a joint meeting with the City of Akron on Friday.
