At its regularly scheduled meeting on Thursday, September 18, 2025, the Ross Local School District Board of Education voted to approve a grade realignment plan that will take effect at the start of the 2026–2027 school year. 

Under this new plan:

• 4th grade students will attend either Morgan Elementary or Elda Elementary
• 5th grade students will transition to Ross Middle School

This decision follows several months of thoughtful planning, data review, and community engagement, including two CommUNITY Conversations held earlier in September where district leaders shared background data and answered questions from families and residents.

Planning for the Future of Ross Intermediate School

With this realignment, the Ross Intermediate School (RIS) building will no longer serve as a student-occupied school beginning in 2026–2027. However, the district is committed to ensuring the continued value and use of this community asset.

District leadership is actively exploring ways to repurpose the building to serve Ross families and the broader community. Current planning includes the development of a District Welcome Center and the return of central administrative offices, including enrollment, EMIS, and other district-wide functions, to a portion of the RIS facility. Other possible community and organizational partnerships are also being considered. A more detailed plan for the building’s future use is expected to be shared later in the 2025–2026 school year.

“This decision reflects our commitment to being good stewards of the community’s resources while staying focused on student success,” said Superintendent Dr. Bill Rice. “We’re not just closing a building—we’re planning for the future, with care, strategy, and community partnership at the heart of everything we do.”

Responding to Changing Conditions

This realignment also responds to several broader trends and challenges facing school districts across Ohio. As shared during the August Board of Education meeting and recent community forums, Ross Local Schools has experienced a gradual decline in district enrollment. At the same time, the district must navigate the continued uncertainty of the state’s Fair School Funding Formula and the potential impacts of statewide property tax reform—both of which make long-term financial planning increasingly complex.

By proactively addressing these realities, Ross Local Schools is taking strategic steps to ensure efficient use of space and staffing while maintaining the high standards of academic excellence and student support the community expects.

“This was not a decision we took lightly, but one we felt was necessary to ensure the long-term stability of our district,” said Board of Education President Greg Young. “We believe this realignment is the right step to preserve the quality of education our families expect while preparing for ever-changing funding methods from the state.”

Next Steps

District leadership is now focused on creating a comprehensive transition plan to support students, staff, and families through the 2025–2026 school year. Families can expect regular updates, opportunities to ask questions, and building-level support as preparations for the realignment begin.

For any questions regarding this decision and plan moving forward please contact Superintendent Dr. Bill Rice at 513-863-1253.