Dear YCSD Families and Community,
As we close another school year in the Youngstown City School District, I find myself reflecting with great pride, gratitude, and optimism for what we have accomplished together.
Like urban districts across Ohio and the nation, we faced difficult conversations surrounding finances, enrollment, transportation, staffing, and the realities of sustaining progress as we navigated an ever-changing educational landscape. Yet through it all, our scholars, staff, families, Board of Education, and community partners continued to show what it truly means to Defend the Y.
In 2025-2026, we continued the important work of strengthening academic achievement and creating opportunities for our scholars. We celebrated academic growth across our district, including continued momentum at East High School, Chaney High School, Youngstown Rayen Early College, and Choffin Career & Technical Center.
We saw scholars earning industry credentials, college credit, academic honors, athletic achievements, artistic recognition, and scholarship opportunities that continue to prove what we already know here in Youngstown — our scholars can compete with anyone when given opportunity, support, and belief.
Our district also continued expanding pathways that prepare scholars not only for graduation, but for life. From career and technical education to early college opportunities, to literacy initiatives, mentorship programming, fine arts, athletics, and workforce partnerships, we remained focused on preparing scholars to become productive citizens, leaders, and contributors to our community.
One of the things I am most proud of is the strength and dedication shown by our staff. Every day, teachers, substitutes, administrators, support staff, transportation employees, custodians, food service workers, counselors, social workers, paraprofessionals, and countless others came together to support children despite obstacles and changing demands.
The work happening in our classrooms and schools matters deeply, and I am thankful for the people who continue to show up for our scholars every single day.
I am equally grateful for our families and community stakeholders. Your partnership, trust, advocacy, and support continue to move this district forward. Public education works best when schools and communities work hand in hand, and I believe we are continuing to strengthen those relationships throughout Youngstown.
As a district, we also remained committed to our extended vision. The work of “One Vision. One Youngstown.” is about more than facilities or organizational structures. It is about creating a stronger, more unified district that positions our scholars for success today and into the future. While change is never easy, I firmly believe the work we are doing now is helping build a stronger foundation for future generations of students.
As superintendent, I continue to believe wholeheartedly in the potential of this district and this city. Youngstown has always been resilient. We have always fought through adversity. And increasingly, we are proving that our schools are on the rise.
To our graduating Class of 2026 — congratulations. You have left your mark on this district, and we are proud of you. Whether your next step is college, career, military service, or another pathway, know that you will always be part of the Youngstown City School District family.
As we now transition into summer, I hope this season provides everyone an opportunity to rest, recharge, and spend meaningful time with family and loved ones. Summer is also a period for reflection and preparation as we continue building momentum for the year ahead.
Thank you for believing in our schools, our staff, and most importantly, our scholars.
Have a safe, enjoyable, and blessed summer.
Together, we will continue to Defend the Y.
With pride and purpose,
Jeremy Batchelor
Superintendent
Youngstown City School District