Superintendent’s Corner

by Kelli Cogan

As we settle into the 2026-27 school year, it has been wonderful to see our students and staff back in our classrooms and hallways. Each new school year brings renewed energy to our buildings and reminds us why the work we do together as a school community matters.

This will also be an important fall for Independence Local Schools. This November, our community will be asked to consider the renewal of our permanent improvement levy.

This is a renewal, not a new tax. PI dollars are dedicated to maintaining the facilities and assets our community has invested in, including building repairs, roofs, HVAC systems, technology infrastructure, buses, safety and security improvements, equipment and other long-term capital needs.

Renewal of the PI levy allows us to responsibly care for what we have today while planning for the district’s future. In the weeks ahead, we will share information about how PI dollars are used and the role these funds play in our long-term financial planning.

At the same time, we continue to evaluate the future of our primary and middle school facilities. Following the outcome of the May ballot issue, the board of education and district leadership listened to community feedback. Rather than immediately returning with the same proposal, we are taking another look at the project, including its scope, design, cost and location.

We continue working with Garmann Miller to explore options that meet our students’ educational needs, use our resources well and are financially responsible. As ideas develop, we will share them and seek community feedback.

Most importantly, our focus remains on our students and providing the experiences, opportunities and education they need to succeed.

Thank you for your continued support of Independence Local Schools. Together, we will continue to “Cultivate a Legacy of Excellence” for today’s students and generations of Blue Devils to come.