AKRON, Ohio — On Wednesday, March 11, Akron Public Schools (APS) Superintendent David James and Campus Principal Kim Sabetta joined University of Mount Union President Dr. Richard Merriman to announce that University of Mount Union will become a sister university to North High School. 

As a sister university, Mount Union will work closely with the school and teachers to develop classroom lessons that have integrated, career-themed content; design and present problem-based learning opportunities that incorporate thought-provoking, real-world problem-solving activities; and support the implementation of a college admission testing preparation program.

“A sister university greatly enhances the academic experience for our students. We are thrilled at the news that the University of Mount Union has agreed to partner with us at North High School, says Superintendent David James. “We feel this is going to be an effective approach to our students’ path toward higher learning.”

“We are excited to be the sister university of Akron North High School. We look forward to helping Akron North students prepare for success in higher education and the workplace,” said Mount Union President Dr. Richard Merriman. “We know that Mount Union’s students and faculty will be greatly enriched by the opportunity to partner with such a dynamic high school.”

The collaboration between Akron Public Schools and University of Mount Union was formed with the help of United Way of Summit County. United Way serves as a link between the College and Career Academies of Akron and local businesses to provide hands-on learning opportunities for students and to strengthen the education to employment pipeline in Summit County.

“Today’s announcement is a great example of what happens when community partners work together to ensure Akron Public School students have the opportunities and

experiences needed to be a success after graduation,” said Jim Mullen, president and CEO of United Way of Summit County. “Our Bold Goals inspire us to bring together partnerships like this one. I am confident University of Mount Union’s work with the College and Career Academies of Akron will help students achieve their goals in the classroom and beyond."

About Akron Public Schools:

Akron Public Schools (APS) enrolls more than 21,000 students and employs 3,000 teaching and non teaching professionals in Northeastern Ohio. The district, one of the state's largest and most diverse, covers 62 square miles in a city of 195,000. APS educators are committed to rigorous teaching and learning, safe learning centers and community engagement to prepare young people to be well rounded and ready for the challenges of learning that follow in life. The goal of APS is to be the #1 urban school system in the United States. For more information about Akron Public Schools, visit AkronSchools.com.

About United Way of Summit County:

United Way of Summit County takes on the issues that matter most to children and families in Greater Akron. We pursue Bold Goals through forward-thinking strategies, innovative programs and hands-on work in our community. We team up with private and public leaders, local businesses and thousands of volunteers from across our community to create change that matters. Together, we are hand raisers. Game changers. Because there’s a better future in store for Greater Akron, and the time is now to make it happen. Learn more at uwsummit.org.