The Westerville City Schools district is pressing ahead with a volume reduction of over 30 positions after a critical levy failed last November and a subsequent choice not to have the issue reappear on the May ballot. This cutback is a consequence of a prominent budgetary shortfall, with the consolidation of responsibilities and voluntary separations shouldering the restructuring effort.
A district statement detailing the plan pointed out that the ax would fall heaviest upon the administration crew, with "the administration team will see the largest percentage of reductions." Some administrative contracts are set to be suspended, while a number of retirements and resignations will also play their part, as reported by NBC4i. Although no clear numbers have been divulged, it has been noted that a portion of these administrative duties will be distributed among the remaining staff, seeking to maintain operational integrity despite the decrease in manpower.
On the instructional side, the district aims to diminish its licensed/certified personnel, with the Westerville Education Association foreseeing the retirement of 18 positions. This goal has been partially buoyed by 35 resignations and retirements, according to a statement gathered from WBNS. However, they note, "All positions have not yet been fully identified" as decisions hinge on pending secondary-level student course selections.
It's not just the administration and instructional branches facing cuts. Support staff are not immune to the district's financial correction, with six unionized staff members having their positions slated for elimination and two non-union support roles also heading for reduction. While one maintenance position is said to have been vacant all along, the district anticipates other comparable positions could be available for those impacted by the cuts, "the district anticipates having other comparable positions available to those affected by their position elimination," quotes The Columbus Dispatch.
Complications notwithstanding, the district still must address pending vacancies. Numerous openings exist for roles like special education aides and bus drivers, with the district proactively seeking new hires to address, according to NBC4i, "known and unknown retirements and resignations." Those interested in these positions are encouraged to visit the district's focused career website.
