May 6, 2026
Dear UCS Families,
On behalf of the Board of Education, I would like to thank everyone who supported the 1.0% earned income tax levy on the May 5, 2026, ballot.
Although the outcome is disappointing, we recognize that current economic challenges make it difficult for many to commit to new local funding for the school district. With this levy, the Board once again aimed to secure necessary funding through an income tax rather than to continue relying solely on property taxes. We hope that future legislative efforts will result in a funding system for schools that is a more predictable and transparent process for everyone.
However, one thing still remains clear: without changes to the state funding formula, the Urbana City School District will continue to need additional local financial support in the near future. The District's commitment to classroom instruction is evident, with 75.1% of its funds dedicated to instruction—ranking fourth among 262 similarly sized Ohio districts. The increase in the graduation rate is another example of focused efforts resulting in positive outcomes for our students.
As proud Hillclimbers, our community has consistently risen to the occasion—approving an additional operating levy in 2008 and supporting new school buildings in 2014. The Board will once again review our district’s financial situation and consider options to work towards providing our students and staff with the resources they need. We look forward to working together to plan for the necessary staffing cuts, program reductions, and elimination of educational experiences required to stay within the bounds of the financial support provided by both the State and local community.
Sincerely,
Charles Thiel, Superintendent