We recognize the value of education to the future success and growth of our community, and we strive to provide opportunities for community members to be lifelong learners.
Here's what we've heard in surveys and community conversations:
“In the future, I’d like to see a growing and thriving school district, with opportunities for college kids/former residents to return to town with their families.”
“Our community is one of the best around. Our businesses are almost all local families, our school is one of the best, great country setting, and most of all ... safe!”
“A strong school system is the basis to a strong community. A community that is focused on children; their well-being and safety, will continue to draw good people and help graduates return one day to raise their family.”
“I grew up in a small town, moved to Sioux City, had our daughter and instantly put in a 5 year plan to move to a small town school district. The experience with school district and community has been hands down amazing. People care for one another in a way I've never experienced, once you become an Akronite, you are in for life.”
“I’d like to see small business thriving, school going strong, and keeping the "it takes a village to raise a child" going strong.”
“I wish there were more for our kids. Yes, there are a few things for them but for the most part we have to drive out of town for them to participate in sports or any activity.”
“I’d like to see a Cub Scout Pack and a Boy Scout Troop, non-sport centered activities, Chess Club, Lego Robotics Classes, STEM activities on Saturday mornings, Craft Club (for mommies).”
“I’d like to see a growing community with more opportunities for residents of all ages. Culture of celebrating positive news and encouraging success of businesses, students and more.”
“I’d like to see better communications between city, school, organizations to highlight opportunities and work together.”
“I've always loved the idea of school aged kids helping around town."
“The school tends to be the hub of most all activities from sporting events to concerts. I love how the communities rally around our kids.”
“I’d like to see more efforts in cleaning things up, equipment and fields get beat up quickly and I'd love to see more care towards our fields.”
“I hope that we always keep up to date our school system with changing times to meet all people’s needs.”
“These communities have a strong sense of commitment to volunteer and help. I also like the variety of businesses on "main street." The school system also does an outstanding job of preparing kids for the future.”
“I want to see us focus on things that will help our youth want to stay and invest in the towns’ future.”
“I’d like to see local cub scouts/boy scouts starting up here again. I’ve met a lot of new to Akron people recently - people who've moved here in the last 1-3 years. Maybe an annual or bi annual Welcome to Akron even where new comers can learn about all the events, activities, etc.”
“I love the school-community relationships. The kids love the pool and the library, We love our neighbors and family in our small town.”
“Our local business district is always willing to help the school and those in need.”
“I’d like to see strengthened partnership between school and community, and work to create more opportunities to grow and learn together.”
“I’d like to bring students leadership groups and community leaders together to create and provide events for all ages.”
“Continue upgrading the AW school facilities post-bond approval. More work needs to be done.”
Ideas we've heard:
New facilities at AW school, bond improvements and more
New track and grandstand
Provide transportation to after school activities for rural students
Robotics classes, chess club, LEGO club
More STEM activities
Update sports complex at school and in communities
More support for educators
School playground update, including equipment for special needs
Continued support of PTA activities and fundraisers
Need bus stop shelter built in Westfield for students to wait in bad weather
Keep teachers in town
Longer times for things- ie: open house from 5-7 instead of 5-6, allows out of town families to make it into town and spend time doing activities, etc
Mentor programs with businesses and students
Do something special to recognize students doing well in school
