Community Reflection: Building Brighter Futures Together

Long Post Alert 🚨

Dear Cleveland Community,
When the announcement about school mergers and closures was released, emotions ran high — and rightfully so. Our schools are more than brick and mortar; they are memories, pride, and legacy. But we also have to face reality: low enrollment and poor attendance are deeply connected to the difficult decisions before us.

Over the past 20 years, CMSD’s enrollment has dropped by nearly 50% — from about 70,000 students to just over 34,000. Meanwhile, the cost of operations has increased and federal and state funding have tightened. The math simply doesn’t balance.

Still, this moment isn’t just about numbers. It’s about choices — the same kind of choices families make around their own kitchen tables when funds are low and debts are high. When that happens, we don’t ignore the problem — we make adjustments to protect what matters most. That’s exactly what CMSD is doing: taking responsible, proactive steps to avoid financial distress and ensure that every student has access to high-quality, equitable learning environments.

And yes, we have to acknowledge another reality — many families have moved out of Cleveland or chosen private, charter, or parochial schools for their children. Alumni, too, have deep emotional ties to the schools where they grew up. That pride is powerful — but it’s time to bring that love home. If we want our neighborhood schools to thrive, we must invest our time, talent, and trust back into them. I know this doesn’t apply to everyone, but if the shoe fits, it’s worth some honest reflection.

What’s disheartening is the sudden surge of online commentary from those who weren’t in the rooms when voices were most needed. We hosted multiple community meetings, including at some of the very schools impacted, and while we are grateful for those who showed up, the attendance didn’t match the energy we now see across social media. Even during the most recent Board meeting, more than 2,000 people watched the livestream, which shows people care — but engagement must go beyond reaction. True impact happens when we show up before decisions are made, not just after.

Let’s be clear — this is not about blame. This is about ownership. It’s about how we, as a community, participate in shaping our children’s future.

The Building Brighter Futures Plan is not about taking away. It’s about strengthening what works and ensuring every child learns in a warm, safe, and well-resourced school.

• Every high school will offer college credit and career pathways.
• ​Every K-8 will expand electives such as band, world language, robotics, and Algebra I.
• Every student will learn in facilities that are modern, well-maintained, and designed for 21st-century learning.
• Every neighborhood will still have strong, vibrant schools at its core.

We can mourn what we’re losing and still move forward with purpose.
We can hold space for frustration while working together toward solutions.
And we can transform this challenge into an opportunity to rebuild stronger — together.

So, Cleveland, let’s channel our energy into showing up. Attend a Family Meeting at any of the impacted schools. Come with questions, ideas, and a spirit of collaboration. Be ready to add value and engage in solution-based conversations. That’s how we honor our students, our families, and our community legacy.

​Thank you for reading,
Your CMSD Family Guy,
Anthony Brown

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Parents and Caregivers: Please Check Your Email!

Important information about Building Brighter Futures is in your inbox. If your child’s school is impacted, a Parent Meeting will be held at the school. Please check your email for the date and time of this meeting.

The meeting will cover the next steps for the Building Brighter Futures recommendations. Didn’t receive an email? Contact your child’s school for the meeting details.

​Learn more about the recommendations and next steps here:
​ https://www.clevelandmetroschools.org/Page/22034
Your voice matters, don’t miss this opportunity to stay informed and engaged!

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