Perrysburg School District faces $14M funding shortfall and potential staffing cuts

The Perrysburg Exempted Village School District held a special Board of Education meeting on December 12, 2024, to address pressing financial concerns and outline a reduction plan for the upcoming school year. The meeting focused on the district's cash balance, budget shortfalls, and necessary staffing reductions.

The discussion began with an explanation of the district's cash balance, emphasizing the importance of maintaining sufficient funds to cover operational costs. Officials highlighted the need for a cash reserve equivalent to two months of expenses to avoid borrowing money for payroll and bills. The current financial forecast indicates a significant shortfall, with a projected $13 million deficit and an additional $6 million in necessary cuts to balance the budget.

Superintendent indicated that the district's financial situation is precarious, with rising costs and insufficient revenue from local levies. The board is faced with critical decisions regarding funding and potential cuts, which could impact educational programs and staffing levels. The superintendent noted that without new funding, the district would need to implement further reductions, potentially totaling $14 million, to maintain operations above the established cash balance threshold.

The meeting also addressed the implications of recent failed school levies in Ohio, which have affected many districts, including Perrysburg. The board plans to engage with the community to discuss these challenges and gather input on future funding strategies.

As the meeting progressed, principals from Perrysburg High School and Junior High School presented information regarding specific staffing reductions. They expressed concerns about the impact of these cuts on academic programs, particularly in areas such as world languages and music.

The board is committed to transparency and will continue to hold community engagement sessions to keep the public informed about the district's financial status and the steps being taken to address these challenges. The meeting concluded with a call for collaboration between the board, staff, and community to navigate the difficult financial landscape ahead.