Support New Philadelphia City Schools levy for single-campus plan

As a parent and lifelong community member, I am writing in strong support of the New Philadelphia City Schools levy to build new schools on a single campus. This decision carries lasting importance for the accessibility of our schools and the long term strength of our community.

Many of our current buildings, particularly Welty Middle School, have reached a point where their limitations are no longer minor inconveniences but daily obstacles. The building relies heavily on stair access, creating challenges for individuals with mobility needs.

I have personally experienced how difficult it can be to bring an elderly family member who uses a walker into the building, something that should feel welcoming and inclusive for every member of our community.

These accessibility concerns directly affect students as well. Following my daughter’s surgery, safely entering and navigating the building became incredibly difficult. The designated rear drop-off area for mobility needs is shared with bus traffic, raising real safety concerns.

The elevator is frequently out of service, forcing students to enter the high school to use its elevator and then navigate back to their classrooms. This is physically demanding and results in lost instructional time, something no child should sacrifice because of a building’s limitations.

Strong schools are essential to strong communities. While some have expressed concern about moving away from neighborhood schools, a thoughtfully designed single campus offers the opportunity to build a deeper sense of connection and belonging.

Bringing students, families, and staff together in one place fosters collaboration, continuity, and shared identity throughout their school career. Campus planning would also allow traffic flow, pick up, and drop off to be designed with safety and efficiency in mind.

With limited land available within the New Philadelphia City School District and $80 million in state funding, this levy represents a rare and time-sensitive opportunity to invest in schools that serve both students and the broader community for generations.

Although my own children will graduate within the next few years, my support reaches farbeyond my own household. It reflects the belief that a community is defined by how it cares for its children and how it prepares for the future.

The proposed 1.5% income tax does not impact retirement income and will no longer apply after retirement, but the opportunity before us is time sensitive. With significant state funding available, we have a rare chance to do something meaningful and lasting.

This is an opportunity to lift up our students, strengthen our community and invest in a future that reflects our pride in New Philadelphia and our belief that every child deserves a safe and supportive place to learn. I urge our community to support this levy and move forward together.

Sincerely,

Shellyn Leeper

New Philadelphia