Kettering School District plans multi-million dollar building levy

The Kettering School District is planning a major project to remodel or rebuild most of its school buildings. A meeting was held on Thursday to discuss a proposed levy to fund this initiative. Leanne Breslin, a parent of five Kettering students, attended the meeting. She was surprised by how well thought out the plan seemed. However, she was aware that it might involve closing some elementary schools. An evaluation by local leaders found that 11 of the district's 12 schools do not meet current standards. The Kettering School District partnered with the Ohio Facilities Construction Commission two years ago to help with funding for new facilities. The total cost for the project is estimated at $432 million, which includes $285 million that would come from local taxpayers. District treasurer Justin Blevins noted that details about the cost per household are not available yet. The renovation plan is part of a 10-year strategy, divided into two phases. The first phase focuses on consolidating middle schools and renovating the high school. Phase two will be presented later this fall. The proposed levy will be on the ballot in May 2026. Some community members believe it may be challenging to pass. Dale Chandler expressed concerns about the costs involved and the efforts needed to gain support for the levy.