Perrysburg School District announces cuts to extracurricular activities and leadership positions

Perrysburg Exempted Village School District is facing significant changes as the Board of Education announced reductions in programs and staffing during a special meeting on December 12, 2024. The decisions, driven by budget constraints, will impact various extracurricular activities, including athletics and clubs, affecting hundreds of students.

The meeting highlighted the elimination of several key positions, including assistant principals and department chairs, which are crucial for maintaining a supportive educational environment. The administrative team emphasized that these cuts would alter the dynamics of the school, making it more challenging to provide hands-on support to both students and teachers. The assistant principal role, in particular, is seen as vital for fostering collaboration among staff and addressing student needs through tiered interventions.

In terms of extracurricular activities, the district will see a reduction in both athletic programs and clubs. Approximately 140 students participating in freshman sports will be affected, with cuts likely leading to fewer opportunities for students to engage in athletics. The high school will still offer some programs, but the overall participation numbers are expected to decline. The junior high will not face cuts to sports, but the limited number of available activities means that students will have fewer options to choose from.

The Building Leadership Team (BLT), which plays a critical role in decision-making and fostering a shared leadership culture, will also be disbanded. This change is anticipated to hinder the collaborative efforts that have been essential for teacher and student growth.

Despite these challenges, the district aims to preserve some key programs, such as student council and National Honor Society, to ensure that students still have opportunities for involvement and leadership. The administration is committed to maintaining a sense of belonging for students, recognizing that extracurricular activities are vital for their connection to the school community.

As the district navigates these changes, the focus remains on minimizing the impact on students while adapting to the new budget realities. The administration is hopeful that remaining programs will continue to provide valuable experiences for students, fostering engagement and a sense of community within the school.