Myths & Facts
Myth
Boardman should be an open-enrollment school district.
Fact
Due to the changes in HB's (House Bills), it would cost the district an additional $6,400 for each open-enrolled student.
Myth
Too many staff members.
Fact
Boardman Schools' average student-to-teacher ratio in the classroom is lean, efficient and focused on student success.
*Boardman's highest average; data available from 2010-2024
Myth
The State Report Card tells the Whole Story.
Fact
The State Report Card is a complex 'lagging indicator.' Boardman holds 5 Stars in both Graduation rate (97.3%) and Gap Closing.
Boardman High School was ranked in the Top 100 in Ohio (out of 900+) by U.S. News & World Report in 2025, placing it in the top 11% of the state.
Myth
State funding will make up for any shortfalls should a renewal levy be defeated?
Fact
Because the state has failed to fully fund the Fair School Funding formula, and only updated certain inputs to current FY25 levels and left other key components stagnant at FY22 levels, the responsibility for maintaining Boardman’s excellence remains in our hands. The 5.9 Mill Renewal Levy is not a new tax; this renewal is needed now more than ever to continue to honor Boardman traditions that we have had since the levy's inception 30 years ago when it was first passed in 1996 .
Myth
Boardman schools spend too much money on their students.
Fact
2025 Spending Averages per pupil:
State of Ohio: $17,263.37
Mahoning County: $16,343.53
Boardman Schools: $15,563.30
Boardman schools provide an exceptional value for taxpayers. As the spending averages demonstrate, Boardman spends less per student than the state and county averages, yet consistently produces higher levels of student achievement.
Myth
Boardman replaces staff members without considering the decrease in enrollment.
Fact
Over the last 11 years, Boardman’s enrollment has decreased by 650 students, primarily because local families are having fewer children. In response to this decline, the superintendent has strategically left over 30 staff positions unfilled rather than replacing departing employees.
Additional Support & Information
Boardman Local Schools District - District Profile