David and Colleen Harris are the proud parents of Clayton (6), a first grader at Harter, and Truman (4), who attends preschool at the Early Learning Center. Their family has spent the past four years connected to the preschool program, which they describe as “an incredible foundation for both our boys.”

For the Harrises, the support of IEP teams has been essential, providing occupational therapy, physical therapy, speech services, and guidance through changes when plans needed to shift. Like many families, navigating developmental disabilities came with a steep learning curve, and transitioning to school initially felt intimidating.

“What we found instead was an expanded support system, not just for our child, but for our whole family,” Colleen shared. “Clayton has so many people working faithfully to help him thrive. I honestly can’t imagine doing this alone.”

The family values collaboration with teachers, therapists, and school staff, and Colleen serves on CCSD’s inaugural Parent Advisory Group to help keep communication strong between families and administrators. This year, they’re also enjoying the preschool’s Intergenerational Program with Truman.

Their advice to other families: assume the best, ask questions, and work together toward solutions that are right for your child.

Libby Hanlin, a 1997 McKinley graduate, has worked in the district for the past 12 years. Her family is truly a Canton City Schools family. She married her high school sweetheart, Brandon (’97), and is not only an alumna and employee, but also a proud CCSD parent.

Her children, Sebastian (ECHS ’20, mechanical engineer), Julian (ECHS ’22, Firefighter/EMT certifications, three associate degrees), and Violet (ECHS ’28, dual athlete) are fourth-generation CCSD students. Libby’s mom, Debbie Bunting (Blackledge), is a proud 1970 Lincoln graduate, and her grandmother, Olga Blackledge (Marshalek), is a 1943 Timken graduate.

Libby attended Harter Elementary and Souers Junior High, where she was shaped by band directors, teachers, and volleyball coaches throughout her CCSD academic career—and where she also met her lifelong best friend. She began her career with CCSD as a child nutrition substitute, then served as a preschool assistant, worked in Special Education, and ultimately landed what she considers the best job in the district: secretary at Cedar. Prior to working in the district, she volunteered in her children’s classrooms at Harter and The Arts Academy.

If you know Libby, you know she is a passionate CCSD advocate. She believes in being actively involved in her children’s education, participating in parent-teacher conferences, volunteering, seeking out programs and activities, encouraging athletics, and ensuring her children grow as learners through participation in the district’s band and orchestra programs.

Canton City Schools is proud to highlight the Wags on Wheels program, an initiative that supports seniors receiving home-delivered meals by providing free pet food.

By easing the financial burden of caring for pets, Wags on Wheels helps seniors maintain the health, companionship, and comfort their pets provide, keeping beloved animals in their homes where they belong.

Traditionally recognized during McKinley/Massillon week, in 2026 we're choosing collaboration over competition. Canton City Schools and Massillon City Schools are partnering together to spread the love and support a program that reflects compassion, service, and community care.

Wags on Wheels is made possible through local donations and community support, ensuring both seniors and their pets continue to receive the care they need. We are grateful to shine a light on this meaningful initiative and the positive impact it has across our communities.

The Middle School All-City Band proudly introduced Seussical Jr., a vibrant, high-energy musical that brought the beloved characters of Dr. Seuss to life. From Horton and the Whos to the Cat in the Hat, the performance highlighted the incredible talent, teamwork, and creativity of our middle school musicians and performers. Seussical Jr. celebrated imagination, music, and storytelling, leaving audiences smiling and inspired.

In 2026, Black History Month marks its 100th anniversary with the national theme “A Century of Black History Commemorations.” Canton City Schools is proud to honor this milestone with our annual Black History Month Celebration, bringing together students, families, and community members for an evening of reflection, recognition, and celebration.

Black History Month is a time to recognize the achievements, resilience, and lasting contributions of individuals who have shaped our nation and our communities.

Date: February 19, 2026

Time: 6:00 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.

Umstattd Performing Arts Hall

2323 17th St. NW, Canton, OH 44708

2026 Honorees:

Dr. Charles Hughes

JB Hilliard, Esq.

Please mark your calendar and join us for this meaningful event.

Several of our school buildings have a food pantry designed to help students and families bridge the gap during a few days of food insecurity. The following School Pantries are available for CCSD families experiencing a need for temporary or emergency situations. Please note that these pantries are intended to provide short-term assistance and are not a continuous source of food.

Schools with Food Pantries: Cedar Elementary, Passages at Compton, Crenshaw Middle School, Early College at Lehman, Early Learning Center @ Schreiber, Fairmount Learning Center and Youtz Intermediate

If your building does not have a pantry and your family needs short-term assistance, you are welcome to visit the Timken Career Campus and speak with Linnea Olbon, or email her at olbon_l@ccsdistrict.org. All information is kept confidential.

Click here to learn more about our Family, Community, and Partner Engagement Department and Team.