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WARREN -- Warren City Schools Superintendent Steve Chiaro delivered an update on the district's academic and financial standing during a recent appearance at Good Morning, Warren as he discussed significant achievements while addressing looming state funding concerns.
Chiaro discussed the district's commitment to early childhood education, noting that 353 3- and 4-year-olds are enrolled in its preschool program, which is now rated gold by the state -- a step up from its previous five-star rating.
"It all starts with transforming the lives of children at their earliest age," Chiaro said, crediting the district's focus on social-emotional learning (SEL) for fostering student success.
The district's graduation rate also has seen steady improvement, climbing from a low of 83-84% to 94.6% for the most recent four-year cohort, surpassing state averages and comparable mid-sized urban districts. Chiaro attributed this to a data-driven approach, with preliminary results showing gains in mathematics for grades 3, 4, 6 and 7, as well as in algebra, geometry, science and social studies. English language arts scores also rose in grades 4, 6, 7, 8, and high school English II, though fifth-grade performance lagged, a trend Chiaro said was common across other districts.
For the first time in 28 years, Warren City Schools has shed all adverse federal and state designations, placing it on par with suburban districts.
"We have no adverse rating, no difference from any suburban school," Chiaro said, crediting the district's focus on SEL and partnerships like the one with Akron Children's Mahoning Valley, which provides high-quality health care, including registered nurses and telehealth services, in all schools at no cost to the district.
Chiaro also touted the district's new $34 million Student Recreation and Wellness Center, funded through federal grants and cash reserves without additional taxpayer burden. The 144,000-square foot facility, built by local contractors Phillips Sekanick Architects and DeSalvo Construction, features a 200-meter indoor track, golf simulators, a robotics space and study areas inspired by university campuses. Since its fall 2024 opening, 15,800 students have used the facility for academic purposes, with community groups and sports teams also benefiting.
Financially, the district remains stable, having avoided deficit spending for 11 years and maintaining a strong cash reserve.
However, at a board meeting later that day, Treasurer Karen Sciortino raised concerns about proposed state legislation that could cap school district reserves at 30% of operating costs, potentially forcing reductions in property taxes or budget cuts. "If that was in place five years ago, we would not be sitting here," Chiaro said, referring to the wellness center.
Sciortino also noted a projected state funding decrease of $500,000 in 2026, followed by a $1 million increase in 2027, though she cautioned that these figures remain uncertain. Legislative debates continue, with a state budget expected by June 30, potentially subject to gubernatorial vetoes.
Despite a slight student population decline of less than 1% from 2020 to 2024 -- compared to a nearly 10% drop in nearby Youngstown City Schools -- Chiaro noted the district's stability and its role as the largest mid-sized urban district in Northeast Ohio. "We've protected our investment in our kids and community," he said, pointing to upgraded facilities, a new bus fleet and enhanced safety measures.
Chiaro said he remains focused on sustaining academic growth and community partnerships, ensuring students are prepared for both workforce and life success.