Perrysburg School Board faces tough decisions on cuts to music and language programs

Perrysburg Exempted Village School District is facing significant cuts to its extracurricular programs, including the elimination of the forensics and speech and debate teams, as discussed in a recent special board meeting. The decision has raised concerns among board members and community stakeholders about the potential impact on student engagement and support systems.

During the meeting, administrators expressed worries about the ripple effects of these reductions, particularly in athletics and student support services. The loss of programs is expected to lead to unintended consequences, such as student transfers to other districts and a decline in the overall competitiveness of the school's athletic teams. Board members highlighted the importance of extracurricular activities in fostering a sense of belonging among students, which is crucial for their social and emotional well-being.

The discussion also touched on the implications for academic support, particularly for students needing intervention. Administrators emphasized that the cuts could hinder the ability to provide personalized assistance, which has been a cornerstone of the district's approach to education. The board acknowledged that while some support services would remain, they would need to be restructured, potentially affecting the quality of education for many students.

Concerns were raised about the future of the music program, which has a strong reputation. Board members suggested exploring alternative solutions, such as online language classes, to preserve vital programs like band. However, administrators cautioned against moving language instruction online, citing past experiences where student engagement suffered during remote learning.

Despite the challenges, the board remains committed to finding ways to support students and families during this transition. They are exploring partnerships with local colleges for dual enrollment opportunities and are actively seeking grant funding to maintain essential programs, particularly in American Sign Language (ASL), which is critical for workforce readiness.

As the district navigates these difficult decisions, the focus remains on ensuring that students continue to receive the support and opportunities they need to succeed both academically and socially. The board plans to continue discussions on how to best implement these changes while minimizing the impact on the community.