Our school buildings have served generations of students, but the buildings are aging. More than half of our buildings are over 100 years old, and our newest building is 96 years old!  

The infrastructure inside our buildings is struggling to keep up with today’s needs. The May 2025 bond issue is an important investment to ensure our schools remain safe, functional and prepared for the future.

The Investment

The 4.74-mill bond issue will generate $40 million to fund Phase 2 of the Master Facilities Plan, focusing on critical renovations at Harman and Smith Schools.

What This Bond Will Fund

This bond issue is part of a long-term, community-driven plan to modernize Oakwood’s schools while preserving their history. Phase 1, which voters approved in 2019, upgraded Oakwood Junior and Senior High. Phase 2 will address critical needs at Harman and Smith Elementary, including:

• Heating and Air Conditioning – Removing inefficient window units and installing modern, energy-efficient HVAC systems. This includes adding air conditioning to Smith gymnasium.
• Electrical Upgrades – Bringing wiring up to today’s technology and energy demands. Modern classrooms require every student to have a Chromebook and each room to have a projector/smart board, teacher computer and printer.  The electrical load is just more than the system was designed to bear.
• Fire Safety – Installing fire suppression systems in Harman and Smith, which currently have none.
• Structural Repairs – Roofing, masonry and ceiling repairs to maintain our buildings for future generations.
• Accessibility Improvements – Replacing outdated stair lift systems at Harman and Smith.
• Technology & Classroom Enhancements – Upgrading networks, lighting and classroom A/V equipment.

Oakwood Schools: A Wise Investment
Our district directs more than 71% of every dollar into the classroom—well above state averages, as noted by the Ohio Department of Education. Our district ranks 11 out of 261 similarly-sized districts in making sure our dollars go where they count: the classroom. 

The high-quality education that students receive at Oakwood Schools is a key reason why property values in our community remain strong.

Didn’t We Just Vote on a Levy?

Yes, in 2023 — but it was for operating and permanent improvement funds, not a bond issue.  Each of those types of levies direct funds to different purposes.

• Operating levies cover day-to-day costs like teacher/staff compensation, utilities and supplies.
• Permanent improvement levies fund maintenance, security and smaller-scale upgrades.
• Bond issues fund major facility renovations and additions—projects that cannot be covered by current district funds.