The Akron Public Schools Board of Education has announced its new leadership, electing Carla Jackson as its new president and Bruce Alexander as vice president in a closely contested vote that ended 4-3, according to WKYC. In her fourth year on the Board and previously served as vice president, Jackson aims to steer the focus back to student success and build relationships with trade unions to support non-college-bound students. The decision was made during Monday's meeting, after which the board entered a nearly three-hour executive session beyond midnight.
Not without its share of drama, Barbara Sykes ran an opposing campaign for president, calling into question Jackson's past attendance record. The Akron Beacon Journal quoted Sykes, "This community deserves a better school board." Jackson defended her record, pointing to her hands-on approach within schools and her commitment to student success. She countered the critique of her attendance when family illness struck, saying, "We all have life that happens."
Underlying the new appointments is the ongoing and attention-grabbing investigation into allegations against Superintendent Dr. Michael Robinson, as reported by Signal Akron. Jackson reassured the public of an independent review led by the law firm Brennan Manna Diamond, which would be "thorough, impartial and independent." Robison himself vehemently denies the allegations, including claims of derogatory comments toward female journalists and bullying of employees, claiming his commitment to "a respectful and inclusive environment."
Aside from electing new leadership, Jackson also instigated change, reassigning board subcommittee positions. With three members now designated to each subcommittee, the former board's staffing strategy marks a departure, as detailed in the revisions shared by Signal Akron. For example, the Finance & Capital Management Subcommittee will have Barbara Sykes chairing, with Gregory Harrison and Rene Molenaur as added muscle.
