Summer greetings from Friends of Cudell Commons Park! 

We write to you with encouraging news!  After months of community opposition, the Cleveland Metropolitan School District (CMSD) and Mayor Justin Bibb announced on May 30, 2024 that they are pausing plans to construct a new Marion Seltzer school on Cudell Commons Park!

Mayor Bibb said in the statement, "I support CMSD on their decision to pause on the plans to redesign of Marion C. Seltzer Elementary School near Cudell Commons Park.  Over the past eight months, I have heard from many members of the community, including the Friends of Cudell and advocates about their concerns regarding this project. As mayor, it is my responsibility not only to listen but to also recommend action on behalf of our residents. I appreciate the active and engaged community members who have brought concerns about this project to our attention.  I hear and understand their frustration and passion for their neighborhood. I also recognize the need for a new school, and I believe we can collectively work toward a solution that creates a unified green campus for students, staff, and community to learn and play indoors and outdoors while preserving the legacy of the Tamir Rice Memorial. "

The CEO of CMSD, Dr. Morgan followed with, ”While this decision did not come easily, we understand the importance of intentionally planning a rebuild that benefits all members of the community.”

CMSD has convened a Steering Committee comprised of representatives from the city, CMSD, Marion Seltzer School, and Friends of Cudell Commons Park, specifically Nikki Hudson and Brent Eysenbach.  There will be six Steering Committee meetings over the next six months, and the first meeting was on June 28 where stakeholders began to identify key priorities and assets to be considered in the design of Marion Seltzer School.  It was made clear that CMSD is looking to build on the current school footprint preserving the park’s green space and mature trees. This process will continue through December and will include multiple opportunities for community members outside of the Steering Committee to weigh in on possible future plans for Marion Seltzer School.  We will continue to keep you updated as the process progresses.

In other news, on June 22 Tamir Rice Foundation and Friends of Cudell Commons Park hosted a celebration in honor of what would have been Tamir’s 22nd birthday.  This year marks the 10th Anniversary of Tamir’s murder.  In celebration of his life, the event was attended by many families and community members who enjoyed good food, nature-themed activities, and games.

Lastly, a little news:

5/30 - Ideastream “Cleveland School District halts plans for Marion Seltzer school after protests” 
5/31 - Axis “CMSD Pause Construction of Marion Seltzer School in Cudell”

Hope to see you soon at Cudell Commons Park!

-  Friends of Cudell Commons Park