Watch: Cleveland Mayor Justin Bibb, CMSD CEO and coalition of ministers speak on CMSD building mergers

CLEVELAND — Thursday afternoon, Cleveland Mayor Justin Bibb and a coalition of ministers held a news conference to discuss the changes to school buildings that CMSD’s CEO proposed.

Watch:

Bibb, ministers talk about CMSD building mergers

Morgan laid out his recommendations Wednesday night during a board work session at the Arnold Pinkney East Professional Center.

Morgan told the public that doing nothing won’t fix serious budget challenges or ensure all students have equal access to academics, sports, extra-curricular activities and support services.

The district faces a budget deficit by 2028 if no changes are made. It needs to save $150 million over the next several years.

The “Building Brighter Futures” initiative is projected to save about $30 million a year through downsizing.

The district said it has lost 50% of its student population over the last 20 years.

Morgan proposed that 29 fewer schools operate during the 2026-2027 school year, resulting in 39 total mergers and moves. He also said that 18 CMSD-owned buildings and five leased spaces will not operate as schools next academic year.

CMSD

Overview of the Building Brighter Futures recommendations.

Watch more on the proposed changes:

CMSD CEO recommends schools merge rather than close

RELATED: Cleveland Metropolitan School District’s CEO proposes sweeping restructuring plan

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