Home

It has been an exciting few months for Oakwood Schools as we move into the next phase of our Master Facility Plan. Following the incredible community support of the May 2025 bond issue, district leaders have been working diligently behind the scenes to maximize every dollar and deliver the best possible learning environments for our students.

As shared previously, the scope of our work has evolved significantly for the better. While the initial plan for Harman School and Smith Elementary focused on targeted renovations to address critical needs, a unique opportunity arose to partner with the state earlier than anticipated. Thanks to the Ohio Facilities Construction Commission, or OFCC, the district is now proceeding with complete renovations at both schools. This co-funding opportunity expands the scope from basic infrastructure like HVAC and roofing to comprehensive updates, including windows, floors, furniture, and enhanced safety features. These iconic buildings will now be ready to serve students for decades to come.

Financially, the district has made major strides. Oakwood Schools recently moved from an Aa2 to an Aa1 credit rating from Moody's Investors Service, a high rating that reflects strong fiscal management and community support. With this excellent rating, the district successfully sold bonds on January 28 to secure the local funding required to match the state's contribution. Furthermore, the district recently received official approval from the OFCC Controlling Board, a critical step allowing Oakwood to receive co-funding for state-eligible projects.

Oakwood is now ready to begin the design and planning phase in earnest and has officially posted the Request for Qualifications to secure an architect and engineer. Finding the right partner is essential to preserving the historic character of our buildings while modernizing them for 21st-century learning. During last night's Board of Education Meeting, the district received approval for the Master Facility Plan project budget of approximately $63 million. This figure represents the total investment in our schools, combining local bond dollars with nearly $18.4 million in state co-funding.

While major renovations at Harman and Smith are in the planning stages, work is already underway across the district. At Lange School, steady progress continues on HVAC replacements, with two rooftop units installed over the holiday break and the remaining four scheduled for the upcoming spring break. In addition, updates to the junior high and high school Wellness Room were completed last summer, followed by recent equipment upgrades in the Weight Room. Looking ahead to the summer of 2026, the district anticipates significant work on the baseball and softball fields, pending city approval.

As the district secures an architect in the coming months, the priority will be developing a detailed design and construction timeline. Oakwood Schools remains deeply committed to keeping staff and families informed every step of the way as these exciting plans turn into reality.

Oakwood City Schools is ready to welcome the Class of 2039 as registration for the 2026-2027 kindergarten class officially opened on February 23.

Families should note a change in age eligibility due to Ohio’s House Bill 114. Under this legislation, students must be 5 years old on or before the first day of instruction to enroll. For the upcoming school year, that date is August 12, 2026.

Applicants must reside within district boundaries and provide proof of residence. Once registered, families will receive additional information about kindergarten screening, which will take place at the Oakwood Community Center this spring.

To begin the enrollment process on or after February 23, visit the kindergarten registration page to access all necessary forms, document checklists, and step-by-step registration instructions.

Planning ahead is key! At the February meeting, the Board of Education officially approved the calendar for the 2027–2028 school year. They also approved an important adjustment to the 2026–2027 calendar to help improve the spring semester flow.

The spring Professional Development Day, initially set for late April 2027, has been moved to March 29, 2027. This change was made because the previous date conflicted with the state testing window. By moving the date, we ensure a consistent, uninterrupted testing environment for our students and teachers. As a bonus, this new professional development date falls right after Spring Break, giving families and students an extra day of rest before returning to school.

Visit oakwoodschools.org/district/district-calendar to view the calendars.