Superintendent outlines staffing plan, posts psychologist and new intervention roles

The Waterloo Local superintendent told the school board on Jan. 9 that the district has posted several positions for the 2025–26 school year, including a replacement psychologist, an elementary teacher replacement, two new intervention specialist positions and a music teacher opening.

"These positions are strategic investments in our students' futures," the superintendent said, framing the hires as measures to support students (including an increase in services for students with individualized education programs). The superintendent said the district has posted the roles to attract candidates but will not fill positions without the board’s approval after reviewing how hires affect the district’s five-year financial forecast.

Officials noted the intervention specialist positions are new and, if approved, would increase staff size and have a direct impact on the district’s financial outlook. The superintendent also said adding a music teacher could allow the district to reallocate staff and avoid filling another anticipated elementary position.

Board members discussed scheduling a work session — possibly appended to the February regular meeting — to review staffing proposals, hear principals’ inputs and consider trade-offs before approving hires. The superintendent said the district will continue screening applicants and hoped to present more details at the February meeting.

Why it matters: Staffing choices affect classroom supports, special-education services and the district budget. The board must weigh program benefits against projected costs before authorizing hires.

The board did not take final votes on hires at the Jan. 9 meeting and recessed into an executive session later to discuss employment matters.