Superintendent David James will discuss the state of Akron Public Schools at the Akron Press Club’s luncheon on Tuesday, Feb. 13. There will be the opportunity for questions following the speech.
As superintendent, James is responsible for more than 20,000 students and 3,000 employees. The district includes more than 50 schools and community learning centers.
In the past year the district partnered with the LeBron James Family Foundation to create a school for students at risk of falling behind. The school is based on the foundation's existing I Promise Network programs, which have helped more than 1,100 Akron-area grade school students the past six years. The new school offers more learning time for students.
Akron Public Schools have been named a Ford Next Generation Learning Community. Under this framework schools can offer a more focused learning setting and students can select a college and career path similar to picking a major in college.
The district also offers dual degree programs where students can earn a high school diploma and a two-year college degree upon graduation from high school.
In addition to his superintendent duties, James is president of the Buckeye Association of School Administrators. The GAR Foundation awarded James its 2017 Glass Half Full Award.
He is a graduate of Cleveland John Adams High School and Cleveland State University, where he received his bachelor's and master's degrees. He joined the Akron school district in 1992, became executive director for business affairs in 2002 and superintendent in August 2008.
Details:
Program: State of Akron Schools by Superintendent David James.
Time: Buffet luncheon begins at 11:30 a.m., Tuesday, Feb. 13. Program follows.
Place: The Tangier, 532 W. Market Street, Akron.
Cost:
- $20 for Press Club members, $25 for non-members, $160 for tables of eight.
- Advance payment required for tables of eight.
- $25 for all reservations made after Thursday, Feb. 8 (members & non-members).