Frequently Asked Questions

Below we've outlined the answers to questions we've received on the campaign trail.  Have a question not addressed below? Contact us at negreyandwilsonforschoolboard@gmail.com. 


What is the current state of RRCSD finances? What is your perspective on the "budget challenges" faced by the district?

As shown in the 5-year forecast reviewed in detail at the public meeting on October 14, the district financial position for this fiscal year and next is stable and aligned to financial projections. The deficit spending predicted by our 5-year forecast is a natural occurrence in the cycle of public school finance, based on how public schools are funded in Ohio and the fact that the majority of RRCSD's budget comes from local property taxes. The district continues to look for practices to make the district more efficient and to extend any levy cycle. In fact, the Superintendent has spoken at the past several board meetings about efforts to review district programs and spending with the Treasurer and administrators. The best place to find the most accurate information about RRCSD finances is the district itself:


I have more questions for you! How can I learn more?

Please reach out to us! Our email address is: negreyandwilsonforschoolboard@gmail.com. And, consider viewing the League of Women Voter's candidate forum for our answers to questions asked of all candidates.


What does it mean to run a shared campaign?

We share the same vision for what RRCS can be, and the role the board plays in getting the district there. There are three open seats for school board on the ballot in November. Voters will vote for their top three candidates. Our names will be separate on the ballot, and we are hoping that voters will elect each of us as two of their three top candidates. Running together allows us to share infrastructure and strategy, and to effectively reach more people to share our vision and goals for RRCS.


What is the role of a school board member?

The role of the school board member is to act as a part of the governance team for the school district by setting policy and vision, employing and overseeing the superintendent and treasurer, and ensuring the fiscal health and educational opportunities for students. Key responsibilities also include advocacy, legislative engagement, community relations, and making decisions as a unified board at public meetings. A single board member has no independent authority; decisions are made by the board as a whole. 


What are you most proud of about your work on the Board so far?

We are proud of continuing to keep kids at the center of decision-making. Rocky River has continued to be a top performing district in Ohio, earning the 4th highest PI in the state in 2024. We are also very excited about the new Superintendent's vision for the district, and are proud of the role the Board played in bringing him to Rocky River.


What is your stance on the proposed amendment to eliminate property taxes in Ohio?

Because of the way public schools are funded in Ohio, RRCSD relies almost completely on local property taxes to pay for operations. The proposed constitutional amendment aims to abolish all property taxes, but does not include a solution for funding local services, including public schools, police, fire, emergency services, and more. If this amendment were to pass, it would have devastating consequences for Rocky River and all public school districts and local services in the state. The passage of this amendment would make it impossible for RRCSD to deliver the quality education for students that our community has come to expect. 


The Board of Education operates as a governing body. As such, no single Board member can advocate for ballot issues or other legislative matters independently. Any advocacy, including related to a proposed constitutional amendment in Ohio, would need to first have the support of the majority of members of the Board. 


What is the difference between service on a nonprofit Board of Directors and a public school district Board of Education?

The key differences between serving on a nonprofit board of directors and a public school district board of education lie in their accountability, governance structure, and mission. While all boards provide oversight, their fundamental responsibilities and the nature of their work are distinct. Nonprofit boards of directors are accountable to the organization's mission, and members must follow a "duty of loyalty, care and obedience" to the mission and organization. Public school boards of education are accountable to the voters, and must make decisions that align with state and federal laws as well as district policy. Nonprofit boards are responsible for both strategic and financial oversight, and often have a meaningful degree of involvement in operations, particularly for smaller organizations. Public school boards of education are responsible for policy-making and fiscal management of the district, as well as the appointment and management of the superintendent and treasurer, and are not involved in day-to-day operations. Nonprofit board members are recruited for their expertise, passion for the mission, and ability to contribute resources, whether through fundraising or professional skills. They are typically appointed by the existing board and often serve for a set term, all of which is determined by the organization's bylaws. Public school district board of education members are elected by the public. The number of board members, terms of board service, and other factors related to the Board composition and structure are determined by state law.

When is election day?

Election day is Tuesday November 4, 2025. Early in-person voting and vote-by-mail begins October 7.


How do I know where to vote?

Visit the Cuyahoga County Board of Elections website: https://boe.cuyahogacounty.gov/voters/Find-Voting-Information-by-Address 


How do I register to vote?

You can register to vote online at the Ohio Secretary of State's website: https://olvr.ohiosos.gov/. Visit the library for a voter registration sheet, or contact us! The deadline to register to vote in the November 4 election is October 6!


How many seats are open on the school board?

There are 3 seats on the November 4 ballot.


What is the term of service on the board?

Jess and Lauren will each finish their first 4-year term on the school board on December 31, 2025. The November 4 election is for school board members to serve a 4-year term that begins January 1, 2026 and ends December 31, 2029.