New Faces, New Hopes: Akron Schools Get Fresh Board Members

The recent election brought changes to the Akron Public Schools (APS) Board of Education, introducing three new members. This shift could mean new ideas and approaches to the challenges facing the district. Nathan Jarosz is one of the new board members, securing his spot with 13. 9% of the votes. He expressed gratitude to the community and promised to bring stability, transparency, and a collaborative mindset to the board. Jarosz acknowledged the challenges ahead but remained optimistic about the future of APS. Karmaya Kelly, another new member, received 14. 64% of the votes. She downplayed the importance of the title itself, emphasizing instead the opportunity to advocate for the community. Kelly highlighted the struggles many families face, such as health disparities and food insecurity, and stressed the importance of public education in breaking cycles of inequity. Kelly's victory was not just a personal achievement but a testament to the community's trust in her. She vowed to serve faithfully and tirelessly, driven by a deep sense of responsibility and commitment. Phil Montgomery is the third new member. His election adds another perspective to the board, which could lead to more diverse solutions to the district's problems. The new board members bring different backgrounds and experiences, which could be beneficial in addressing the complex issues APS faces. Their election marks a new chapter for the district, one that could bring positive changes and improvements.