February
Cleveland Children First, an activist parent group, testifies in support of mayoral takeover. Supt. Boyd proposes a four-year governance period to ensure success.

May
With the passage of the levy, the CTU invokes a15-year-old provision that allows negotiations to be reopened when a levy passes. Eventually, teachers receive 4% raises retroactive for two years and a 5% raise in the third.

July
The state legislature approves House Bill 269, which gives the mayor of Cleveland control over the city’s schools.

Again, the district files a motion in federal court, seeking to end more than 20 years of federal supervision under the desegregation order.

August
Gov. Voinovich approves the local governance plan giving control of the district to Mayor White in September.

By a margin of 58 to 42, voters reject a charter amendment that would have required the city or developers to compensate for funds the school district would lose if the city gives developers a tax break to encourage development. Mayor White opposes the measure, saying abatement is an essential tool for business development.

Because of low test scores and high suspension rates, all of the teaching staff at Paul Revere and Waverly elementary schools are forced to reapply for their jobs and most are replaced. The two principals are fired. Teachers and parents protest the "reconstitution," calling it a move to mollify policymakers. The CTU files a grievance.

September
The CTU and NAACP file suit to stop the switch to a mayor-appointed school board.

October
A massive computer technology infusion at 10 of 22 schools is completed a year behind schedule due to delays with bidding and planning.

December
Supt. Boyd resigns to take a job as interim state school superintendent in Mississippi. Penning again is appointed interim superintendent.

 

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Research: Barbara Good and staff

Sources: The Plain Dealer, proceedings of Cleveland School Board meetings, school district annual reports.

Photos: Cleveland Municipal School District, U.S. District Court, Cleveland City Council

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CATALYST: For Cleveland Schools is an independent publication created to document, analyze and support improvement efforts in Cleveland's public schools.