Education & Youth
Out-of-school suspensions are frequent, with some schools reporting dozens per semester and multiple expulsion referrals, signaling a need for peer-driven change and conflict resolution.
why it matters
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A child’s path through education begins long before high school. In Summit County, only 48% of children were ready for kindergarten in the 2023–24 school year, down from 61% in 2019–20.
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Early learning gaps can continue as students progress through school. In Akron Public Schools, 45% of third graders were reading proficiently in 2025, compared with Ohio’s 57% benchmark. Attendance also remains a significant challenge, with chronic absenteeism affecting many Akron high school students.
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Education also shapes future opportunity. When young people feel connected, supported, prepared, and able to see a path forward, they are better positioned to graduate, continue their education or training, enter the workforce, and contribute to their community.
by the numbers
Key realities shaping life in Greater Akron.
2 in 5
third-grade students reading proficiently compared to the Ohio benchmark at 57%.
3.5
stars out of 5 for the overall state report-card rating.
1 in 2
children are ready for kindergarten.
2 in 3
APS high school students are chronically absent.
>50%
of students feel a strong sense of belonging or support at school.
>40%
of students rate learning as "relevant" or feel they have active self-direction in their education.
All data presented was obtained from partners and publicly available sources across Greater Akron. Data reflects the most recent information available at the time of collection and may vary by reporting period, geography, or methodology.
prayer
Pray for the children and students of Greater Akron. Ask God to protect them, encourage them, and place caring adults in their lives who remind them that their future matters.
Pray for teachers, school leaders, and families. Ask God to give them wisdom, endurance, and the resources they need to help students learn, grow, and thrive.
Pray for opportunity and belonging. Ask God that every young person would have places where they are known, challenged, supported, and given opportunities to discover who they were created to be.