School officials discuss $13.5M budget cuts impacting class sizes and librarian services

The Perrysburg Board of Education faced tough decisions during a special meeting on December 12, 2024, as they grappled with a significant budget cut of $13.5 million. The impact of these cuts on class sizes and essential staff roles was a central focus of the discussions.

Principals from local elementary schools voiced their concerns about the potential loss of assistant librarians, which they described as vital to fostering a love of reading among students. "It's a place where kids can discover their love of reading for reading's sake," emphasized Dr. Salowitz, principal at Woodland Elementary. The absence of these positions could lead to larger class sizes in encore classes—art, music, STEM, library, and physical education—potentially pushing student numbers to 36 or 38 per class.

The meeting highlighted the logistical challenges that would arise from these cuts. With fewer staff members, schools would struggle to maintain manageable class sizes, which could hinder the quality of education. The principals noted that the cuts were already being felt at the elementary level, with custodial services also affected, leading to students taking on more responsibilities for maintaining cleanliness in their classrooms.

As the board continues to navigate these financial challenges, the implications for student learning and school operations remain a pressing concern. The decisions made in the coming months will shape the educational landscape in Perrysburg, emphasizing the need for careful consideration of how budget cuts affect both students and staff.