PARMA — Families in Parma City Schools could save hundreds of dollars next school year after the district announced it's cutting pay-to-play fees.
Community members, parents and students in Parma, Seven Hills and Parma Heights heard some good news as the Parma City Schools Board of Education unanimously approved a five-year forecast Thursday night, giving them financial stability.
Superintendent Charles Smialek said they are saving money for families, especially by reducing pay-to-play fees, which could save some families $900.
“We’re a public school system. We should have equal opportunity for all of our students," he said.
The district will cover costs of advisers for choirs in all elementary schools, marching band in all high schools and jazz and pop bands in all middle schools.
The budget also allows them to increase the STEM program at Greenbriar Middle School to sixth graders. Right now, only fifth graders are able to utilize the program.
In addition, there will be a workforce development specialist to help with career readiness, including mentoring and job shadowing for middle and high school students.
Smialek said next on the to-do list will be remodeling buildings, with the youngest building being 50 years old.
