District outlines 55 central‑office cuts, hiring freeze and other measures to close budget gap

Ocala — Marion County interim superintendent Danielle Brewer reported June 10 that the board reached consensus on a revised central‑office staffing plan that would reduce district‑level positions by 55 and incorporate several other measures to reduce a budget shortfall by nearly $27.5 million.

Brewer summarized the package presented at the June 10 work session: use $7.5 million from the committed fund balance; eliminate the seven‑period day at three middle schools; adjust ESOL and special‑needs paraprofessional ratios; and increase class‑size ratios by two students across all grade levels. She said those changes, combined, are projected to save nearly $27.5 million. "These changes will result in savings of nearly 27 and a half million," Brewer said.

Brewer told the board the district is pausing teacher hiring and canceling summer hiring events until final funding information arrives from Tallahassee. She also reported summer school enrollment figures and noted a newly operational transfer switch at a designated special‑needs shelter that should speed post‑storm openings.

Board member Doctor Lisonbee Campbell raised concerns about some new positions included in the staffing plan — notably additions in Safe Schools, Howard Academy and a contract manager — and asked the board to take a closer look before approving final changes. She also flagged the use of the $7.5 million from the committed fund balance, saying she remains cautious about relying on that funding without a formal policy change authorizing its use. No final board vote on a balanced budget was recorded at the June 10 meeting; staff said they would continue planning while awaiting state funding determinations.