Introduction

The Shaker Heights City School District is pleased to provide updates on the latest developments with various renovation projects as a part of the District’s Long-Term Master Facilities Plan. The District's commitment to enhancing the educational environment for students continues to drive these efforts.

Activating the Long-Term Master Facilities Plan has been well underway. Below are opportunities for engagement. If you have a question or comment on the facilities plan, please fill out this form. Share this newsletter with friends and neighbors in Shaker Heights! Subscribe to the facilities newsletter.

In this Message

• Woodbury Design Update
• Update on Ludlow Renovation, Playground
• Arbor Day Tree Planting at Ludlow

Woodbury Design Update

Architects from GPD Group presented their ideas as they continue to revise the design for the Woodbury building to the City Working Group on April 24. Architects revisited the Woodbury Visual Preference Survey, which was completed by Shaker Heights community members last fall. The team highlighted the preferred design from the survey and how they have implemented a similar style into the Woodbury building.

Architects took a closer look at the style of houses across Woodbury Road to incorporate similar details into the Woodbury building to ensure that it matches the aesthetic of the neighborhood. The City Working Group provided further feedback on the design in preparation for the City Planning Commission meeting on May 13 for site plan approval.

Update on Ludlow Renovation, Playground

The Ludlow renovation is progressing on schedule. Ongoing work inside the building includes drywall finishing, painting, gymnasium framing, and pipe insulation.

The Shaker Schools Foundation is excited to continue supporting the Ludlow Playground project! This vibrant, inclusive space was created in partnership with our District, City and community. This playground will serve as a hub for outdoor fun and connection, especially for our youngest learners at the Ludlow Early Learning Center.

Designed with equity and inclusivity in mind, the new playground will feature age-appropriate equipment for all, fostering joyful play and community engagement. It’s more than just a playground — it’s an investment in the neighborhood’s future.

The basic play structures are in place, but we need your help for the finishing touches! The Shaker Schools Foundation is raising funds for key features like benches, bike racks, picnic tables, and interactive musical elements. And thanks to a matching gift challenge, your donation to the Shaker Schools Foundation will go twice as far. Learn more and donate today!

Arbor Day Tree Planting at Ludlow

To celebrate Arbor Day, which is today, April 25, the Onaway Garden Club planted two serviceberry trees at Ludlow. Residents of the Ludlow neighborhood joined Mayor David Weiss, the City of Shaker Heights Government and its Tree Advisory Board (TAB) to plant trees at the intersection of Ludlow and Southington Roads.

Onaway students received support from Art Teacher and TAB member Tim Kalan for the Arbor Day celebration. To continue our recent recognition of Earth Day, the students were transported to Ludlow with one of the District’s three electric buses. Many families will enjoy these plantings for years to come, as the Ludlow Early Learning Center opens in Fall 2025!