At its August meeting, the Wooster City School District Board of Education approved an Ohio Facilities Construction Commission Certification of Conditional Approval. The district remains in the process of revising its facilities master plan and is actively exploring a range of options.
While the OFCC document includes the phrase “build a middle school,” district leaders said no final decision has been made on a facilities solution. Superintendent Gabe Tudor addressed this directly at the August meeting, noting the OFCC language reflects the plan submitted prior to the district’s May 2025 ballot issue but does not commit the district to any specific project.
By securing conditional approval, Wooster City Schools has preserved the ability to explore a full range of facilities solutions. Even while participating in the OFCC’s Classroom Facilities Assistance Program, districts may revise their master plans, submit new proposals and seek approval for alternate projects. This ensures Wooster can continue to analyze a full spectrum of solutions including renovations to Cornerstone Elementary, reduced-scope construction projects or repair-focused plans.
The certification allows the district to pursue co-funding for whichever facilities solution is selected.
“I want to be clear: We are not building anything at this time,” Tudor said. “Approving this certification allows us to remain eligible for co-funding opportunities from the state while we continue to evaluate all possible options, from new construction to renovations and repairs. Our needs haven’t changed. Our buildings are aging, but how we address those needs will be determined through careful planning and community input.”
As part of this process, district leaders are committed to aligning any facilities decision with Wooster City Schools’ strategic plan. The plan emphasizes supporting student achievement, ensuring safe and modern learning environments, and maintaining financial responsibility.
For more information about Wooster City Schools and ongoing facilities planning, visit www.woostercityschools.org or email Tudor at wstr_gtudor@woostercityschools.org.
