By providing diverse opportunities in the arts, athletics, and extracurricular activities, CCSD ensures that students can develop confidence, teamwork, and a deep connection to their school and community. A STRONGER PACK: INVESTING IN FACILITIES & COMMUNITY GROWTH CCSD is making significant investments in infrastructure and community partnerships to enhance learning environments and strengthen connections between students and the broader Canton community. Talbert emphasizes that these projects are driven by a commitment to student success and long-term community impact. One of the district’s most ambitious initiatives is the construction of two new elementary schools, which will return CCSD to a K-6 neighborhood school model. “Those two new elementaries should be breaking ground here in the next couple of months to open in the fall of the 2026-27 school year,”Talbert states. This shift is designed to improve family engagement and student connectivity, ensuring that younger students stay in the same schools for longer periods. Beyond classroom spaces, CCSD has prioritized creating multi-use community facilities.The district recently opened the Bulldog Activity Center, a 110,000-square-foot space featuring a 200-meter indoor track, basketball and volleyball courts, and turf fields. “Our goal is to involve more kids in after-school activities because we know kids who are involved come to school, connect to school, and connected kids do better in school,”Talbert explains. CCSD has also transformed local landmarks into valuable student resources.The district,in partnership with the City of Canton, renovated a minor league baseball stadium into a state-of-the-art facility for school and community use. “Pretty much every day that is a playable day, that stadium is in use with our students and with adults and colleges hosting state-level events,” Talbert says. By investing in modern facilities and strong community partnerships, CCSD is ensuring that students have access to top-tier resources while also supporting the economic and social growth of Canton. LOOKING AHEAD: PRIORITIES FOR 2025 AND BEYOND As CCSD looks ahead to 2025 and beyond, its leadership is focused on expanding educational opportunities, strengthening career pathways, and deepening community connections. Talbert highlights the district’s commitment to creating more choice-based learning models that allow students to tailor their education to their interests and goals. 276 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 06, ISSUE 03
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