Wadsworth school board discusses levy, impact of recent cuts

WADSWORTH — The Wadsworth City Schools Board of Education discussed the potential impact of the district's upcoming levy and recent budget reductions during its meeting on Oct. 12. The discussion came as the district continues to address financial challenges that have led to reductions in staffing and services. During public participation, a parent spoke in support of the levy and addressed concerns about calls for the district to "budget better." The parent said the consequences of school budget reductions extend beyond financial figures, citing larger class sizes, reduced services and changes in where students attend school. According to information included in the district's meeting materials, the reassignment of 45 elementary students resulted in the elimination of 14 teaching sections. The parent said the changes demonstrate how budget decisions can directly affect students and families, noting that reassigned students may leave schools, friendships and familiar staff. Board members also discussed the level of educational and extracurricular opportunities currently available to Wadsworth students and the potential implications of the levy's outcome. One board member emphasized that the district is not intended to operate at a state-minimum level, pointing to opportunities provided through athletics, performing arts, facilities and other programs as important parts of students' educational experiences. Another board member said the community ultimately will determine the level of services it wants the district to provide, while acknowledging that the district would continue working to give students a positive experience regardless of the levy's outcome. The board also received information about the district's special education services. Wadsworth City Schools supports approximately 800 students with individualized education programs from preschool through 12th grade. Those students are served by about 50 intervention specialists and 92 aides and attendants, as well as providers offering speech, occupational and physical therapy, music therapy, audiology and vision services. The district also works with the Medina County Educational Service Center on behavioral support and provides specialized reading assistance. The special education discussion followed a legislative update about a national campaign seeking increased federal funding for special education. The campaign calls for the federal government to eventually cover 40 percent of the cost of educating students with disabilities, a level the district said has historically not been reached. The board also scheduled a special meeting for 3:30 p.m. Nov. 5 to work on board goals and potentially meet with parent-teacher organization representatives. Contact Brooke Adams at 440-822-8373 or badams@medina-gazette.com.