Shailia Davis, a senior at Akron Early College, told the Akron Public School Board on Oct. 20 that students want more competitive sports and academic club opportunities at their small high school.

Davis said her survey of students and several teachers found “over 35%” of respondents want Akron Early College teams that can compete and be recognized like other Akron schools. She asked the board to “try to talk to the Ohio High School Athletic Association and administer AEC the rights to have sports teams that are able to compete and place in meets, games, districts, states, and national championships.” She listed basketball, football, volleyball, track and field, and soccer as the most-requested sports.

The student also urged expanded academic offerings, proposing funding and official advisors for competitive teams such as DECA and HOSA, and said the debate team should receive support to compete against schools outside the district. “I would love to see some of these changes made in the future to enhance the high school experience of the scholars who come after me,” she said.

Davis described Akron Early College as a two-time National Blue Ribbon winner with a five-star Ohio report-card rating, and said a small student body produces a close-knit community but limits opportunities for athletics and some competitive academic activities.

Board members responded positively. Member Autry thanked Davis for her presentation and said she “continue[s] to really appreciate your leadership,” adding the district should pursue ways to keep families engaged and to expand programs. Member Molineux said she attended a recent cluster meeting as a parent and praised the idea of clearer communication between schools, principals and the board. Vice President Alexander congratulated recent student scholarship recipients and recognized the Akron Public Schools Hall of Fame work before thanking Davis for her recommendations.

The board did not vote on measures tied to Davis’s requests at the Oct. 20 meeting; members said the suggestions would be taken under consideration and raised communication and implementation questions for staff to follow up on.