May 14, 2024
Anthony Wayne Local Schools Stakeholders:
The AWLS Board of Education held its regular May meeting last evening. This letter is to provide an overview of the activities that took place during the meeting. A recording is available on the Board of Education page of the website for your convenience.
District Treasurer, Ms. Kerri Johnson presented the annual 5-Year Forecast Update. She said the biggest hurdles still facing the District are increasing costs, reduced federal and state revenue and unpaid property taxes. The District has cut $7.7 million from the budget over the next several years by reducing personnel and lowering budgets for purchased services and supplies, but these cuts are only a short-term solution. The District must have additional revenue or face increasing cuts over the next several years.
Following the presentation of the 5-Year Forecast Update, the Board passed a Resolution of Necessity for five-year, $3.3M operational levy. This is the first step toward pursuing an operational levy on the November 5 ballot.
The Board also heard a presentation from Matt Yarder of Yarder Manufacturing Company regarding the construction of a new sheet metal manufacturing facility in Monclova Township. The business is interested in partnering with the District to provide career exploration opportunities for students. Construction is expected to be complete in late 2025.
Other business included:
- Personnel reductions, salary status changes, transfers, resignations and retirement
- Hiring replacement staff members for the 2024-25 school year
- Approving continuing and limited teaching contracts, administrative contracts and contract amendments
- Accepting donations and approving athletic pass prices
- Approving student trips and parent volunteers
- Entering into educational agreements for student support and transportation
- Voting to approve a new 8th grade social studies textbook
- Approving the Class of 2024 for graduation
More information about the AWLS Board of Education may be found on the District website.
Thank you for remaining an engaged member of our school community,
Sincerely,
Dr. Jim Fritz, Superintendent
Anthony Wayne Local Schools