School board reviews redistricting plan to address growth and funding challenges

The Perrysburg Board of Education held a special meeting on December 12, 2024, to discuss critical issues surrounding the district's anticipated growth and the potential redistricting of school boundaries. The meeting highlighted the need for careful consideration of socioeconomic factors and the impact on students as the district prepares for an influx of new residents.

One of the primary topics was the necessity to redraw boundary lines to accommodate the expected growth in the community. Board members emphasized the importance of equity in this process, particularly regarding Title I funding, which supports schools with high numbers of low-income students. The district plans to analyze how many students would be affected by any changes, ensuring that the needs of every family are taken into account.

A significant concern raised was the potential need to pause inter-district transfers during the redistricting process. Board members acknowledged that many families might wish to remain in their current schools, which could complicate the redistricting efforts. This decision, while difficult, is seen as essential to achieving the goals of the boundary changes.

Financial constraints were also a major theme of the meeting. The district is facing a budget shortfall of approximately $13.5 million, prompting discussions on how to alleviate financial strain while still providing quality education. The board is considering policy changes regarding walk zones and the impact of new housing developments on school capacity.

Additionally, the meeting addressed logistical challenges related to transportation. The current three-tier bus system has been causing delays, and board members discussed how redistricting could streamline bus routes, potentially reducing travel times for students and improving overall efficiency.

As the district moves forward, the board plans to gather more information and engage with the community to ensure that any changes made will benefit all students. The discussions from this meeting are a crucial step in addressing the growing needs of the Perrysburg community and ensuring that educational resources are allocated effectively.